Imagine: You’re on a family vacation, enjoying the sunshine and making memories. Suddenly, your little one gets a nasty sunburn, or maybe they’re hit with a wave of motion sickness that ruins your plans.
We’ve all been there, and it’s a reminder that even the best-laid travel plans can be disrupted by unexpected health issues.
But what if there was a way to handle these bumps in the road with natural, effective solutions? What if you could use gentle, eco-friendly remedies that are safe for your child’s sensitive skin?
That’s where natural first aid comes in.
This post explains the benefits of natural first aid for travel with kids, and suggests seven essential items to include in your DIY natural first aid kit.
Why Choose Natural First Aid?
You might be wondering, why go natural when it comes to first aid?
Well, there are some pretty awesome benefits to using natural remedies for your little ones, especially when you’re traveling.
Firstly, natural ingredients are generally gentler on sensitive skin. Your child’s skin is delicate, and harsh chemicals can cause irritation and allergic reactions. Natural alternatives, like essential oils or herbal remedies, are less likely to trigger those unwanted reactions, making them a safer choice for your kids.
Secondly, natural first aid is a more sustainable way to care for your family’s health. By choosing natural options, you’re reducing your reliance on synthetic ingredients that can harm the environment. Plus, many natural remedies can be found in reusable containers or biodegradable packaging, minimizing your environmental footprint.
Ultimately, choosing natural first aid is a win-win for both your child’s health and the environment. It’s a gentle, effective, and sustainable way to care for your little ones, especially when you’re on the go.
So next time you’re packing for a trip, consider adding a few natural first aid essentials to your bag.
Your kids will thank you (and so will the planet)!
A Natural First Aid Kit for Your Travels
Packing for a trip can be stressful, especially when it comes to first aid.
You want to be prepared for any bumps, bruises, or unexpected ailments that might arise, but you also want to keep your luggage light and avoid bulky, chemical-laden products.
The solution? A natural first aid kit!
In addition to your personal medications and standard items like bandages, tweezers and a thermometer, here are seven essential natural first aid items to pack:
1. Essential Oils
Essential oils are incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide range of ailments. For example, lavender oil is known for its calming properties and can be used to soothe anxiety or promote sleep.
Tea tree oil is a powerful disinfectant that can be used to clean wounds or treat minor skin infections. Peppermint oil is a natural remedy for nausea, headaches, and even muscle aches.
For more ideas, check out our blog post on the best essential oils for travel.
2. Homeopathic Remedies
Homeopathy offers a gentle and effective way to treat common travel ailments.
Back when I had to travel internationally a lot for my job, I swore by the homeopathic jet lag pills sold at the airport.
Homeopathic remedies for motion sickness, ear infections, and allergies are available in convenient single-dose pellets or liquid form.
3. Natural Antiseptics
When it comes to wound care, natural antiseptics are a safe and effective alternative to harsh chemicals. Tea tree oil, lavender oil, and calendula cream can all be used to clean and disinfect minor cuts and scrapes.
4. Herbal Teas
Soothing herbal teas can be a great way to relieve various ailments while traveling.
- Chamomile tea can help calm nerves and promote relaxation.
- Ginger tea is known for its ability to soothe nausea and stomach upset.
- Peppermint tea can aid digestion and alleviate headaches.
5. Natural Pain Relief
Natural pain relief options can be a welcome relief when you’re experiencing aches and pains on the road.
- Arnica, a natural herb, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to reduce swelling and bruising.
- Essential oils like lavender and eucalyptus can also be used to ease muscle pain and tension.
- Herbal compresses made with chamomile, lavender, or calendula can also provide soothing relief.
6. Natural Skin Care
Traveling often exposes your skin to harsh elements like sun, wind, and dry air.
Packing natural balms and lotions can help protect and soothe your skin.
Look for products containing ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, and shea butter to heal sunburns, insect bites, and dry skin.
7. Rehydration Solutions
Staying hydrated is crucial when traveling, especially in hot climates. Instead of relying on sugary sports drinks, consider natural electrolytes. Coconut water is a great source of electrolytes and can be found in most grocery stores.
You can also add a pinch of Himalayan salt to your water bottle to replenish electrolytes naturally.
Are you ready to pack your own natural first aid kit? Start gathering these essentials and be prepared for any travel mishaps.
You’ll be glad you did!
Building Your Own Natural First Aid Kit
Creating a DIY natural first aid kit is a fun and empowering way to care for your family’s health while embracing a more sustainable lifestyle.
Here’s how to get started:
Choose the Right Container
Select a compact, reusable bag or container that’s easy to pack and carry. A small, zippered toiletry bag or a sturdy tin box are great options.
Gather Your Essential Items
Now, it’s time to fill your kit with the natural first aid essentials we discussed earlier:
- Essential Oils: Lavender, tea tree, and peppermint are great starting points.
- Homeopathic Remedies: Choose remedies for jet-lag, motion sickness, ear infections, and any allergies that your family is prone to.
- Natural Antiseptics: Include tea tree oil, lavender oil, and calendula cream.
- Herbal Teas: Pack chamomile, ginger, and peppermint tea bags.
- Natural Pain Relief: Add arnica, lavender and eucalyptus essential oils, and ingredients for herbal compresses.
- Natural Skin Care: Choose balms and lotions containing aloe vera, coconut oil, and shea butter.
- Rehydration Solutions: Include coconut water or Himalayan salt packets.
Additional Tips
Organize your kit
Use small containers or reusable zip-top bags to separate items.
Label everything clearly.
Customize it
Add any additional natural remedies that your family uses regularly, such as herbal tinctures, herbal salves, or homeopathic remedies for specific conditions. And consider how traveling might affect your family differently to being at home in their normal routine.
Some extra things I like to add, depending on our trip, are
- Crystalized Ginger – my daughter thinks of these as “very spicy” sweets, and I pull them out for boat trips or on long car rides.
- Rescue Remedy – this helps with stress or anxiety about unfamiliar situations
- Vitamin C – because, lets face it, we don’t always eat as cleanly or nutritiously when we’re on vacation
- Ear Plugs – sometimes there is just too much noise or distractions to sleep. And nothing ruins a vacation more than tired, grumpy kids (or Mamas!)
Keep it updated
Check your kit regularly and replace expired items.
A Quick Guide to Natural First Aid for Kids
Knowing how to use natural remedies effectively can make all the difference when your little one needs a little TLC on the road.
Here’s a quick guide to common travel ailments and their natural solutions:
Sunburn
Try to avoid getting sunburned in the first place by using natural sun protective creams or clothing, and staying in the shade in the hottest part of the day.
But if you do need to treat sunburned skin, a gentle touch is key.
- Apply a cool compress or a soothing aloe vera gel to the affected area.
- Calendula cream can also help calm inflammation and promote healing.
- Our Organic Sun Balm is both a natural zinc SPF and a soothing after-sun treatment.
Insect Bites
- Lavender oil and tea tree oil can help relieve itching and inflammation from insect bites.
- You can make a paste with baking soda and water and apply it to the bite for additional relief.
- Or try our Organic Defence Balm to deter biting insects.
Motion Sickness
Ginger is a natural remedy for nausea and vomiting.
- Give your child a ginger chew or a cup of ginger tea.
- Peppermint oil can also help calm the stomach.
- Acupressure bands worn on the wrists can also be effective for preventing motion sickness.
Minor Cuts and Scrapes
- Clean the wound with water and a natural antiseptic like tea tree oil or calendula cream.
- Apply a clean bandage to protect the area and promote healing.
Headaches
Lavender oil and peppermint oil can both help relieve headaches. Apply a few drops to a cool compress and place it on your child’s forehead.
Ready to practice?
Before your next trip, try using these natural remedies on yourself or your child for common ailments. You’ll be better prepared to handle any unexpected situations and feel confident in your ability to use natural first aid effectively.
Staying Safe and Informed
While natural remedies can be a great addition to your first aid kit, it’s important to stay safe and informed. Here are a few key things to keep in mind:
Consult a Doctor
Always remember that natural remedies are not a substitute for professional medical advice. If your child is experiencing a serious condition, such as a high fever, severe pain, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.
Know the Limitations of Natural Remedies
While natural remedies are effective for a wide range of ailments, they may not be suitable for all conditions. It’s important to research the specific remedy you’re considering and to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
Store Natural Remedies Properly
To ensure the safety and effectiveness of your natural remedies, it’s important to store them properly.
- Store essential oils in dark, cool, and dry places away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Keep homeopathic remedies in a cool, dry place, and avoid storing them in direct sunlight or near strong odors.
Obey Foreign Laws
Remember to be mindful about taking natural remedies into foreign countries. Check before you go.
- It is better to carry herbs as tablet in their original packaging.
- Avoid carrying dried or fresh herbs unless you have special permission.
- And always declare your natural remedies when asked.
With a little effort, you can easily create a DIY natural first aid kit that’s perfect for your family’s travels. It’s a simple way to embrace a more natural and sustainable lifestyle while ensuring that you’re prepared for any unexpected bumps along the way.
