Child safety should also be included in your travel plans! The saying "You don't have to be so strict on vacation" makes sense regarding bedtimes and such, but we should always be cautious when it comes to our children's safety. This is especially important on vacation, when we also want to relax and are in unfamiliar surroundings.
So, what should you pay attention to on vacation and what should you pack?
- Extra caution is advised, especially during summer holidays, if there are bodies of water nearby. Children should never be left unattended near water.
- Are there any fall hazards from the stairs or balcony? Depending on their age, close attention or explanation is necessary; for babies and toddlers, the sleeping area should also be checked for fall hazards.
- Consider sun and heat protection!
- Inform yourself about dangers, e.g. poisonous animals.
- When dealing with litter, for example on the beach, make sure that broken glass is cleared away and cigarette butts don't end up in children's mouths.
- Prevent getting lost!
- When traveling abroad by rental car or bicycle, be sure to use appropriate restraint systems and safety precautions.
- Be aware of other hazards such as exposed cables, holes, open windows, poisonous plants, heat sources such as fire, minibars, etc.
- Especially for children of an adventurous age, it's a good idea to bring along essential child safety devices, such as socket covers, doorstops, or child safety locks for charging cables. Keep in mind that these devices shouldn't be permanently attached to the furnishings of your accommodation. However, simple clip-on safety devices don't take up much space in your luggage and can help prevent accidents while on holiday.
Tip: Just take some insulating tape with you; you can use it individually, at least temporarily, for various hazards in your accommodation and easily remove it afterwards.
- Travel pharmacy – here you'll find many tips from experts on first aid or information on contacting your pediatrician.
Generally, make sure to choose a family-friendly and perhaps even child-safe environment for your vacation. Especially toddlers and those just learning to walk encounter many potential dangers in holiday accommodation. Many landlords overlook typical hazards and risk areas, so as parents, we should at least keep a watchful eye on our holiday accommodation.