Is your family prepared to take a vacation?  Sometimes in the hustle and bustle of packing, families can forget some important items.  Here are a few medical travel tips from Dr. Bill Stratbucker of Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital.

1.  Families need to be prepared, so think about all the things your child may need at home and make sure to pack them.  Essentials include any medications your child takes.  Make sure the prescription is filled and if you might run out, visit your doctor ahead of time for a refill.

2.  Another important thing to remember is emergency contact numbers.  You should have a list of your regular doctors as well as physicians in the area you are visiting.  If you need help locating someone in the area you’re visiting, your child’s pediatrician should be able to help.  This is especially important if your child has a pre-existing medical condition.

3.  First aid kits are important, but you don’t need an expensive one.  You can make your own with a large zip lock bag and include band-aids, ointments, bug repellant, sunscreen and other basic medical items.  Over the counter medications are not recommended for kids under the age of 6, but fever medicine is important to have on hand.  So, ask your child’s pediatrician what they recommend.

4.  One thing just as important as medical supplies is having seatbelts and safety seats for kids.  As of July 1, Michigan law requires all children under the age of 8 years old or under 4 ft. 9 in. to ride in a booster seat.