A summer holiday is great when spent with family along with the kids. The warm sun definitely signals fun at the outdoors, whether it’s a hike, a holiday beach vacation or a getaway at a tropical destination.

But if you have your kids with you, it’s important to know essential information and must-haves for your tots during your travel to prevent any harmful effects of too much sun exposure.

Things to Pack with You

There’s no substitute to prevention even in protecting your child from heat illnesses, sunburns and over exposure to the sun’s heat. These are indispensable items your kids need to protect them from the sun’s heat:
• Portable water bottles and rehydration solutions. Have water bottles that your kids can carry around. These can come in handy when they suddenly feel thirsty. Have rehydration solutions ready just in case your kids become dehydrated.
• Sunblock creams, lotions or sunscreen. The recommended amount of SPF is 15 or higher. This can provide skin protection from sunburn.
• Kid’s shades and hats. Making your kids wear sunglasses and hats is not just an important summer trend; it can protect your kids from dehydration and heat exhaustion.
• Stroller sunshade and umbrella. Your little tots aren’t safe for sunscreens yet, so you can shield them from the hot summer sun by providing a sunshade on the stroller or using an umbrella.
• Portable fans. What a better way to beat off the heat than portable fans. This is a big helper especially when your child gets sweaty after your walks. It’s a great quick way to cool down.

Preventing Harmful Sun Effects

Kids are more prone to sunburns and sun-related illnesses in travel. That’s why it is also wise to know ways to protect your kids and warning signs that can prove fatal.

Your child’s age can help you determine what type of sun protection you can give. Babies 6 months and below have very sensitive skin and should not be exposed to direct sunlight for too long. Their skin also burns easily and sunscreens are not usually safe for their age. Babies should be dressed with light and comfortable clothing topped with a brimmed hat. Use an umbrella or shaded stroller for added protection. Sun protection for toddlers and preschoolers can include sunscreen with at least an SPF of 15, hats and kid’s sunglasses to complete the summer gear.

Sunburn is far different from a summer tan; it is a type of skin burn and can be fatal if the sunburn is large and blistered. Sunscreen lotions and creams, with SPF 15 or more, should be applied generously on your kid’s entire body, which includes the hands, feet, nose, ear area and lips. The sunscreen should also be applied every two hours. Also encourage them to take breaks from playtime and move to a shady area if the sun gets too hot. Sunburn with symptoms of headache, chills and fever are signs of heatstroke and immediate medical attention is needed at this point.

Kids can lose body sugars and salts as they sweat and it is vital for them to replenish to prevent dehydration. Younger kids are likely to suffer heat-related illnesses particularly dehydration and heat exhaustion. When overheated, move kids to a cooler spot and offer them to drink. Be on alert and assess the child if he refuses to drink after his body has already cooled, this could lead to dehydration or heat exhaustion. Other symptoms would include excessive sweating, lethargy and vomiting.

So don’t forget to pack your kids’ summer protection essentials and enjoy the sun with your kids ready for the summer heat.