Vacation is a time to relax with your family, right? But getting there can be stressful. Our advice nurses receive many questions prior to traveling. Some common ones:

Is there anything we can do for ear pain? During take-off and landing, your baby may show signs of ear discomfort or pain. Swallowing helps equalize the air pressure. Offering a bottle or pacifier may help. For older children, they can try chewing gum or drinking through a straw.

Can we given something to make them sleep during the flight? No, we don't recommend giving anything.

What age to travel? Typically, we recommended waiting until your baby is 2 months old and has received their first round of shots.

What should we take?

• Prescription medicines in original bottles
• Band aids
• Hand sanitizer
• Thermometer
• Immunization records
• Medicine for pain or fever (such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen)
• 1% hydrocortisone cream
• Antibiotic ointment (such as Neosporin or Aquaphor)
• Insect repellent and sunscreen (if spending time outdoors)

Talk to your child about the security process. Let them know their bags and back packs will be checked. Some kids do not like people touching their belongings, especially strangers.

Most places you visit will not be childproofed. When you arrive, keep an eye out for these dangerous situations:

• Window blind cords
• Electrical outlets
• Pets and pet food
• Fireplace
• Sharp edges on furniture
• Cleaning supplies
• Pool
• Firearms
• Paper shredder
• Treadmill
• Hot water heater set above 120°F
• Flat screen TVs that are not mounted to the wall
• Shelving units that could be pulled on top of your child

For more information from the Centers for Disease Control: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list

For international travel, we recommend you contact the Dallas County Health Department, Travel Medicine Consultants, or Passport Health. Additional vaccines many be recommended.

More info from the AAP on travel safety, visit: http://www.healthychildren.org/English/news/Pages/Travel-Safety-Tips.aspx