The holiday season is a time for joy, togetherness, and making core memories. But between crowded airports, long car rides, and packed family gatherings, it can also be a time when germs spread as quickly as good cheer. 

At Ocean Pediatrics, we’re here to help your family navigate the season from turkey day through the new year and beyond! Whether you’re flying cross-country or driving to grandma’s, we encourage you to follow these tips for traveling with kids…

Mother using hand sanitizer in an airplane. 

Pack a travel health kit

Before you zip your suitcase, be sure to include these essentials for staying healthy while traveling:

  • Hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol) and disinfecting wipes
  • Child-safe masks (especially for crowded indoor spaces)
  • A first aid kit
  • A medicine kit, including a thermometer and fever reducers (like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, age-appropriate)
  • Any prescription medications and dosage instructions
  • Travel-size tissues, snacks, and a reusable water bottle

Parents reading kids a bedtime story in a hotel room. 

Maintain your child’s routine (as much as possible)

Jet lag, late-night festivities, and sugar overload can wreak havoc on little bodies. To keep your child feeling their best try to maintain their routine as much as possible. We recommend these tips for traveling with kids:

  • Stick to regular bedtimes, even in new time zones
  • Bring familiar comfort items (like a favorite blanket, toy, or book)
  • Try to keep mealtimes and snack schedules consistent
  • Balance treats with nutritious options
  • Build in downtime between activities to prevent overstimulation

Even a few simple routines can help kids adjust more easily to holiday disruptions.

Airport, family and child excited for flight with suitcase trolley on holiday, vacation or immigration journey and travel. Luggage of mother, father or diversity parents with girl kid flying in lobby.

Practice smart hygiene while traveling

Airports, airplanes, gas stations, and rest stops can be germ hotspots. Help your family protect their immune systems and develop healthy habits by practicing these behaviors:

  • Wash hands frequently (especially before eating and always after using the restroom)
  • Avoid touching the eyes, nose, and mouth in public spaces
  • Use hand sanitizer after touching high-contact surfaces
  • Wipe down airplane armrests, tray tables, and seatbelt buckles

To make it fun, turn hand-washing into a 20-second holiday song or pack stickers as a reward for healthy habits on the go!

Young black child having a pediatric telehealth appointment with their parent. 

Know when to call your pediatrician

Staying healthy while traveling isn’t easy. Even with the best planning, sickness happens! If your child develops a fever, unusual symptoms, or you’re unsure what to do, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. We are happy to offer telehealth visits and advice from our trusted team, no matter where the holidays take you.

At Ocean Pediatrics, we’re here to be your trusted partner in health, helping your family navigate every season with confidence. We hope you found these holiday travel tips helpful — and, if you’d like help creating a travel checklist for your family, our team is just a phone call away. Don’t hesitate to make an appointment with us today! Until then, we wish you a safe trip and a healthy holiday season!

 

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