Keeping Your Family Healthy While Traveling: Simple Tips for Parents on the Go

Traveling with kids is always an adventure — the excitement, the memories, the snacks (so many snacks). But nothing derails a much-anticipated trip faster than someone catching a bug along the way. Between airports, public spaces, new environments, and changing routines, our kids’ immune systems work overtime when we travel.

The good news? With a little preparation and a few family-friendly wellness habits, you can help keep everyone feeling their best. Here are my favorite practical, mom-tested tips for staying healthy during family travel — plus a few products I personally use and recommend.

1. Boost Immunity Before You Even Leave Home

A strong immune system starts long before you zip up the suitcases. A few days before a trip, I like to support my family’s wellness naturally by focusing on good sleep, nutrient-dense meals, and immune-supporting supplements. As always with new supplements, consult a doctor or trusted medical professional before usage.

Here are our go-to’s:

⭐ Earthley Feel Better Fast

This herbal blend has been a staple in our home for years. We use it at the very first sign that someone might be coming down with something. It’s gentle, kid-friendly, and so easy to travel with. I always keep a bottle in my carry-on or car. Find it here! (https://earthley.com/?affiliateId=9f9e4f94c6fab50d2e634fb5)

⭐ Earthley Elderberry Syrup

Elderberry is a classic immune supporter, and this syrup is one of the cleanest, most trustworthy versions I’ve found. My kids love the taste (win!), and we take it regularly before and during travel — especially during cold and flu season.

Both of these products give me peace of mind when we’re heading into busy airports, theme parks, or anywhere packed with people. Find it here! (https://earthley.com/?affiliateId=9f9e4f94c6fab50d2e634fb5)

⭐ Earthley Vita C

This liquid Vitamin C has been a travel essential for our family for years — we reach for it at the first sign someone might be coming down with something. Made from amla berries, orange peel, and dandelion leaf, it’s gentle, kid‑friendly, and super easy to dose on the go. I always keep a bottle in my carry‑on or car so it’s ready for long travel days, busy airports, or unexpected sniffles. As with any supplement, check with a healthcare professional for personalized advice before use. Find it here! (https://earthley.com/?affiliateId=9f9e4f94c6fab50d2e634fb5)

2. Prioritize Sleep — Even When It’s Tricky

Sleep can take a hit when you’re away from home, but it’s one of the most important factors in staying healthy.

Here’s what helps us:

• Stick to familiar bedtime routines (even a mini version).

• Pack comfort items like stuffed animals, sound machines, or favorite blankets.

• Use blackout travel curtains or aluminum foil on hotel windows if needed.

• For long flights or road trips, encourage quiet time or short naps.

A well-rested kid is a much healthier, happier kid.

3. Keep Hands Clean (Without Harsh Ingredients)

Kids touch everything. Airplane seats, handrails, hotel remotes, random walls… you name it. And while we can't bubble-wrap them (tempting though), we can teach quick habits that help:

• Wash hands before eating and after public spaces

• Use gentle hand sanitizer when soap and water aren’t available

• Wipe down high-touch surfaces in planes, hotel rooms, and rental cars

Pro tip: Put individually wrapped sanitizing wipes in the kids’ backpacks so everyone has their own supply.

4. Pack a “Family Wellness Kit”

Having essentials on hand saves you when someone suddenly doesn’t feel well. Our travel wellness kit usually includes:

• Earthley Feel Better Fast

• Earthley Elderberry Syrup

• Earthley Vita C

• Thermometer

• Electrolytes

• Bandages

• Kid pain/fever reducer

• Saline spray

• Motion sickness bands or tablets

• Probiotics

• Tissues

• Hydration packets

It doesn’t need to be a full medicine cabinet — just the items that help your family feel better quickly.

5. Stay Hydrated and Snack Smart

Travel days can make hydration tricky, especially with long flights or lots of walking. Encourage your kids to drink water regularly (fun reusable bottles help!) and choose snacks that keep energy steady instead of spiking sugar levels.

Some family favorites:

• Applesauce pouches

• Cheese sticks

• Crackers and nut butter

• Fruit strips

• Trail mix

• Electrolyte packets for hot or high-activity days

Hydrated bodies = stronger immune systems.

6. Build in Downtime

Kids need breaks — and so do we. Traveling is exciting but can be overstimulating, especially in new environments.

Even 30 minutes of quiet time back at the hotel can help reset moods, reduce stress, and keep immune systems from feeling overwhelmed. I always remind myself: rest is part of the trip, not a disruption to it.

7. Trust Your Parenting Instincts

You know your kids better than anyone. If someone seems run-down or “off,” slowing down early can prevent a bigger issue later. Stocking reliable wellness products (like our beloved Earthley staples), staying mindful of routines, and giving yourself grace goes a long way.

Healthy Kids Make Happier Travels

Keeping your family healthy on the go doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little prep and a few natural supports — including Earthley’s Feel Better Fast and Elderberry Syrup — you can enjoy your trip with more confidence and fewer “uh-oh” moments.

Whether you’re road-tripping, flying across the world, or exploring somewhere new for the weekend, these simple habits help you focus on what really matters: making memories together.