You’ve been counting down the days and making a list of all the things to pack. Grab your sunnies, it’s summer vacation time!
Whether you’re packing up the trailer, flying out of town or exploring your hometown with a staycation, safe summer vacation memories are the best kind. If you don’t have room in your suitcase to take us with you to the sea, at least bring along these safety tips to ensure a fun and memorable trip.
Tip 1: Be road trip savvy
Summer road trips are filled with car karaoke and bathroom stops – an epic experience that can be both fun and long. Are we there yet? Before you hit the open road, add a measure of safety to your checklist.
Pack a fist aid kit and any essentials you may need in the case of an emergency or roadside breakdown – water, blanket, flashlight, and snacks. When the hours on the road start to get long, take turns driving to give yourself the rest you need to safely arrive at your destination.
Tip 2: Invest in travel insurance
Unexpectedly, illnesses and injuries can happen while on vacation. It’s worth considering the benefits of investing in travel insurance to help cover illness, injuries, and other urgent care if needed. If a deep cut happens at the beach or food poisoning makes an unwelcome visit, travel insurance can make sure your family will receive the care they need, even when you’re away from home.
Tip 3: Swim smart
The water is calling and you must go! Many summer vacations are planned around swimming, whether it’s the ocean, a lake or a swimming pool. It’s also common for families to have kids with varying levels of swimming abilities. Keep in mind the risks whenever your family is around water, especially in the rough ocean waters.
Life jackets are the first layer of safety, but parents should always keep their children in sight and be prepared to leave the water if conditions change. And don’t forget the sunscreen! Apply sunscreen to dry skin 15 minutes before jumping in the water and reapply every two hours, or after swimming or sweating.
Tip 4: Wear the right gear
Summertime vacations often involve activities that we’re not all that used to. Your excursion might involve things like hiking, jet skiing or kayaking for the first time. Wearing the right gear will ensure everyone has fun while being safe.
Sunglasses will protect your eyes from harmful rays, and wide-brim hats will help keep your often-overlooked scalp from toasting under the sun. The clothes you wear matter, too. Avoid dark colors that absorb the heat of the sun. Wear loose fitting and lightweight clothing for breathable comfort to help regulate your body temperature. Follow these tips and avoid the kinds of injuries that your vacation simply doesn’t need.
Now get back to your vacation
Hopefully, these tips will help you and your family stay safe on summer vacation. But if you or someone in your family sustains an injury or becomes ill on vacation, it's important to get connected with the right medical help.
Urgent care centers are a great option for care, especially when you're away from home and can't see your regular doctor. Most urgent care clinics offer digital X-ray and care for minor fractures, as well as care for other minor illnesses and injuries. Best of all, your family will receive fast and convenient service, so you can get back to enjoying summer vacation.
