Packing a Kid-Friendly First Aid & Travel Health Kit

Whether you’re headed to Bali, Bangkok or the bush, a well-packed first aid kit is a travel must-have for families. Kids are wonderfully curious and sometimes a little too fearless, so being prepared for cuts, fevers, mozzie bites and tummy troubles can make a world of difference. This guide walks you through exactly what to pack (and why).

1. Why a First Aid Kit is a Travel Essential

Kids fall, trip, scratch, sneeze and sometimes say, “My tummy hurts!” at the least convenient moment. Having the right supplies on hand saves you late-night pharmacy runs and makes you feel like a parenting superhero. Your kit doesn’t need to be enormous. It just needs to be smart. Hopefully you will never need to use it, but its reassuring to have what you need to manage some common situations. Also, its nice to be able to help others with your kit if needed!

2. The Essentials: What Every Family Should Pack

Here’s your family-friendly checklist for a basic travel health kit:

• Thermometer (digital)

• Children’s paracetamol and/or ibuprofen (liquid or chewable)

• Band-aids, gauze and antiseptic wipes

• Wound cream or antiseptic ointment (like Betadine or Bepanthen)

• Insect repellent (kid-safe, with DEET or picaridin)

• Sunscreen (SPF 50+, water-resistant)

• Tweezers and small scissors

• Oral rehydration salts

• Hydrocortisone or antihistamine cream (for bites or rashes)

• Disposable gloves

• Hand sanitiser/Alcohol wipes/Wet wipes

• Tissues/toilet paper

• Small bags (for sticky things, vomit)

• Prescription medications

3. Kid-Friendly Tips for a Fuss-Free Kit

Make the kit look fun. Use a bright pouch or decorate it with stickers so your child isn’t scared of it. Let older kids help pack it and learn what's inside. It’s a great teaching moment and builds confidence. Keep your essentials in your carry-on bag, and less used items in checked luggage.

Pro tip: Pack small ziplock bags for used bandages or sticky messes. Pack liquids in a sealed ziplog bag at all times when on planes when pressure changes can create accidents!

4. Where to Store It and What to Avoid

Store your kit in a cool, dry part of your bag. Heat can damage some medications. Avoid packing bottles of liquid medicines in checked luggage if they’re essential. They might leak or freeze. Always place them in a sealed bag. For prescription meds, always carry a copy of the script or a doctor’s letter, especially when travelling internationally.

Tip: Some countries have restrictions on medications (e.g. stimulant medications) - check ahead with the embassy.

A Little Kit Goes a Long Way

Here’s your mini travel health checklist:

• Pack a compact but complete first aid kit

• Include age-appropriate medicines and tools

• Store essentials in your carry-on and check expiry dates

• Chat with your travel doctor about destination-specific needs

• Bonus: Let your kids help pack it. It’s a fun way to teach independence

At Kids Travel Doc, we’re here to help you plan, pack and protect. Drop in for tailored travel health advice and walk out with peace of mind (and maybe a few stickers too).

Disclaimer:The information in this article is general in nature and provided for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. For specific recommendations about your child’s health or travel plans, please consult your doctor or make an appointment with a qualified travel health professional.