Healthy Holiday Travel Checklist

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Wednesday, December 21, 2011

by Janelle Sorensen,Chief Communications Officer, Healthy Child Healthy World

Whether you’re taking a plane, train or automobile to a special holiday destination, use this checklist to make sure you have everything you need to stay healthy during your travels.

1. Hand sanitizer. Avoid triclosan and opt for safer, natural alternatives.

2. Wipes. Depending on your plans, you may want two kinds of wipes. One for cleaning up kids and spills, another for disinfecting surfaces (e.g. airplane tray tables, arm rests, etc). Again, look for alternatives that utilize the natural disinfectant qualities of plants.

3. Water bottle. Hydration is extra important to staying healthy when you’re traveling. Bring along stainless steel water bottles for the whole family and fill up at drinking fountains (public sources of water are more regulated than bottled water). If you’re flying, make sure you empty them before going through security and then re-fill afterwards.

4. Healthy snacks. Dried fruits, granola, mixed nuts, apples, oranges, and cereals stay fresh and transport easily – especially with the array of cool, non-toxic containers available.

5. Sun protection. If you’re hitting the slopes or a tropical hideaway, be prepared with a safe sunscreen. Print our sunscreen pocket guide for recommendations and sun safety recommendations.

6. Warm and fluffies. Bring blankies, pillows, stuffed animals – anything to make an uncomfortable seat into a nice nest for sleeping and to bring familiarity to new spaces. Adequate rest is vital to good health.

Of course, don’t forget the basics either – use the following checklists to ensure you don’t forget a thing!