Summer is hands-down one of our favorite times of the year. My family and I are always plotting our next adventure, whether we're packing up for
a classic road trip, heading to the beach, or exploring somewhere entirely new. But as much as I love a spontaneous vibe, I've learned the hard way that a little prep work saves a ton of headaches later.
Before we hit the road, I always like to make sure we're squared away health-wise. For our family, checking in with Atrium Health Levine Children's has been a lifesaver. Whether it's double-checking vaccinations, getting advice on managing motion sickness, or just having a game plan for unexpected bugs, their team helps me feel ready for whatever the road throws at us.Before you even unlock the Airbnb, door or unpack your bags, take two minutes to look up the nearest urgent care and 24-hour pharmacy at your destination. Save the addresses right in your phone.
Also, if you are traveling within the Carolinas, keep in mind that you can easily access Atrium Health pediatric virtual primary care. It's such a relief knowing you can hop on your phone or laptop to securely connect with a doctor if a minor bug pops up, completely skipping the hassle of finding a random clinic in an unfamiliar town. Hopefully, you won't need it, but you'll thank yourself for having a plan if you do!
2. The On-The-Road Hygiene Drill
Travel means airports, crowded rest stops, and touching things a thousand other people just touched. You don't want a stomach bug ruining day two of vacation. I always keep hand sanitizer clipped to my bag, make sure the kids wash their hands with soap whenever we stop, and do a quick wipe down of the screens and phones at the end of the day.
3. Soak Up the Sun (Safely!)
We live for outdoor days, hiking, and beach time. Getting outside does wonders for everyone's mood and burns off that endless kid energy. But the summer sun is no joke.
- Grab a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher (and set a timer on your phone to reapply every two hours, especially if they're swimming).
- Don't forget hats and sunglasses.
- Take breaks in the shade during the hottest part of the day. Babies 6 months and younger should be kept out of direct sunlight whenever possible and protected with lightweight clothing and a wide-brimmed hat to help keep them cool and comfortable
4. Pack a "Just in Case" Health Kit
Don't wait until you're in a remote beach town at 11:00 PM trying to find an open pharmacy. Pack a small pouch with the essentials before you leave. I always include:
- Hand sanitizer and a mini first-aid kit (bandages, wipes, antibiotic ointment).
- Kid and adult pain relievers, allergy meds, and something for upset stomachs.
- Prescription medications (always pack a few extra days' worth just in case of delays).
- Bug spray, a thermometer, and copies of your insurance cards.
- Check for ticks after hiking or spending time in wooded areas and avoidance of poison ivy.
5. Beat the Dehydration Meltdowns
When kids get cranky on trips, 90% of the time they're either tired or dehydrated. One of the easiest ways to prevent that is by encouraging everyone to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. During prolonged outdoor activities, excessive sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea, it's especially important to offer oral rehydration solutions or electrolyte-containing drinks to help replace lost fluids. I always have my kids carry a reusable water bottle, and I sneak in water-rich snacks like watermelon, strawberries, and oranges. It helps keep their energy steady, prevents those heat-induced exhaustion slumps, and makes for a much happier day of family adventures.
6. Balance the Treats with Real Food
Look, vacation is meant for ice cream, boardwalk fries, and fun treats. I am 100% on board with that! But to avoid total sugar crashes, I try to pack a few reliable snacks for the car or plane think fruit, nuts, or string cheese. If we have a heavy restaurant lunch, we just aim for something a bit lighter and greener for dinner. It's all about balance.
7. Protect the Sleep Routine (As Best You Can)
Travel completely wrecks schedules, and that's okay. But overtired kids make for a tough trip. Try to keep a semblance of your bedtime routine, even in a hotel room, and don't over-schedule your days. Building in an hour of quiet downtime in the afternoon can save the whole evening.
At the end of the day, summer travel is all about enjoying the people you love most. A little bit of prep goes a long way in keeping things stress-free. If you have any specific travel health questions or need a quick check-up before you head out, reach out to the team at Atrium Health Levine Children's for personalized guidance.
Here's to a summer filled with sunshine, smooth car rides, and unforgettable family memories!
