While most people’s travel plans for the year have been greatly affected by the pandemic, as travellers, we’re all learning to adapt to the ever-changing travel norms as we go along. After all, travelling today—especially for families with children under 12—has its own set of risks, as outlined by the Government of Canada’s travel advisories.
Health & safety first
Of course, if you must travel, or if you’ve decided that it’s finally time to get away for a little while, it’s important to know and understand general COVID-19 health and safety protocols to ensure the safety of you and your family, as well as the locals you might encounter at your destination. To get started, read about what you need to know for travel during COVID-19.
Choosing where to travel with your family
Remember, you don’t necessarily have to go abroad to experience the excitement of travel. There are plenty of great destinations you’ll find scattered far and wide across Canada, for the family to explore. Keep in mind, if you’re leaving your home province to visit another one, you’ll still need travel insurance to cover the risks your provincial health plan won’t. Once you’ve decided on your destination, it’s time to consider what to pack for your children:
Packing list for kids 12 & under
Personal health & safety items
- Child-sized non-medical masks and face coverings*
- Hand sanitizer
- Alcohol/disinfecting wipes
- Lysol/multipurpose cleaner
- Gloves
- Ziploc bags
- Thermometer
- Medicine (prescription and over-the-counter)
*Tips on children’s non-medical masks/face coverings
- Masks should not be worn by children younger than 2 years old, any child that has trouble breathing, or any child that is incapacitated or unable to remove the mask without your assistance.
- Make sure to provide a mask that’s the right size for your child—wearing a large adult-sized mask will be ineffective.
- If your young child is being a bit fussy with their mask, it might help to build their comfort levels when they see you and others wearing masks, too.
- Be creative! You could try putting a mask on their favourite stuffed animal or draw a mask on a picture of their favourite tv show or storybook character.
- Let your child choose their mask design. It can make mask-wearing a little more fun and fashionable for them!
Toiletries
- Toothbrush
- Hairbrush
- Diapers
- Soap/detergent
Clothes
- T-shirts/tank tops
- Cardigan
- Hoodie
- Jacket
- Pyjamas
- Underwear
- Socks
- Hat
- Sneakers/boots
Food and drink
- Empty water bottle (don’t rely on public water fountains)
- Snacks
- Gum or lollipop (for take-off/landing)
Entertainment
- Books
- Drawing/writing paper
- Pencil case/colouring pens
- Card games
- Small Lego set or portable toys
- Tablet
- Charger
- Headphones
Comfort items
- Stuffed toys
- Neck pillow
- Blanket
If you’d like other tips, the Government of Canada also has a list of COVID-19 resources for parents and children that you may find helpful.
Wherever it is you decide to travel, it’s important to keep your home safe while your family is away on holiday. Once you’ve arrived at your destination and check in at your accommodation, it’s best to thoroughly sanitize your hotel room or vacation rental space. You’ll feel more at home and at ease, and you’ll be able to unpack some of the things for your kids listed above for easy, hassle-free access.
Safe travels with your family,
Justin
