There’s nothing quite like the thrill of an adventure holiday. Whether you’re white-water rafting in Slovenia, or on safari in South Africa, stepping out of your comfort zone can bring joy and excitement.
But when children are involved, it’s vital to strike a balance between fun and safety. Taking a few extra steps before and during your trip will help you stay one step ahead, letting you focus on what really matters – enjoying the journey together.
Pre-trip planning and preparation
Before you book your adventure holiday, start with thorough research. Choose your destination based on its suitability for families, not just its popularity.
As part of your pre-booking checklist:
- Check official foreign travel advice: Visit the GOV.UK site to check for safety warnings, entry requirements, or any current disruptions. Avoid areas with civil unrest or poor healthcare infrastructure.
- Arrange travel insurance: Make sure every family member has the right travel insurance that covers the specific activities you’re planning. Many standard policies exclude so-called “risky” activities like canyoning or mountain biking, so read the small print carefully.
- Don’t skip on health preparation: Check if your destination requires any vaccinations and book these well in advance.
- Pack a well-stocked first-aid kit: Include plasters, antiseptic, antihistamines, and child-appropriate pain relief. Include anything specific your family may need, such as asthma inhalers or allergy medication, too. Keep prescription medications in your carry-on with a copy of the prescription, just in case.
Choosing the right adventure and operator
Choose activities that match your children’s physical abilities and confidence levels. Matching the adventure to how comfortable they feel about the activities reduces the risk of stress or injury.
Also, always go with a reputable tour operator. Look for companies that are licensed and have qualified guides with first-aid training. Ask about their safety procedures and whether they conduct regular risk assessments. It’s important to check if they have any specific child protection policies in place, along with any safety certifications they hold.
One way to help you get real-world insights is to read online reviews and recommendations from other families. These can help you avoid unreliable providers.
On-the-ground safety
Once your adventure begins, you’ll need to stay alert. Make sure your children wear proper safety equipment – helmets for cycling, life jackets for water sports, and sturdy shoes for hiking. Check the fit yourself and don’t rely solely on the guide.
Take the time to talk through safety rules with your children before each activity. Set clear instructions such as staying within sight, listening to guides, and knowing what to do if they get lost. Supervise them at all times – even older children can misjudge danger when they’re caught up in the excitement.
Watch for environmental hazards too, such as sudden weather changes, slippery rocks, unfamiliar wildlife, or steep trails. Be ready to adapt plans if the conditions change.
Health and well-being
Keeping your children healthy abroad is just as important as keeping them safe. Only drink bottled or filtered water, and make sure your children stay hydrated, particularly in hot or humid climates. Additionally, choose food carefully. Avoid undercooked meat or food from unreliable sources.
Plan for protecting your children’s skin too. Prevent insect bites with child-safe repellent and protective clothing and reapply sun cream regularly. Make sure they wear hats and sunglasses.
If your child has a medical condition, carry an action plan in writing and find out where the nearest clinic is, just in case. Don’t ignore symptoms like persistent fever, dehydration, or swelling – get help early.
Communication and staying connected
Before you travel, make sure your mobile phone works abroad and save local emergency numbers and the nearest embassy contact. As this is an adventure holiday, it’s also worth sharing your full itinerary with someone back home and checking in regularly.
Agree on a plan in case you get separated. Teach children to memorise your contact number and carry it on them in writing or on a bracelet. For extra peace of mind, you could also use GPS tracking apps or devices designed for families travelling abroad.
By preparing well and staying aware during your travels, you can give your family the adventure of a lifetime.
Image: Depositphotos
