Holiday Packing When Your Child Has Eczema and Itchy, Dry Skin

When your child struggles with eczema, it can weave its way into all parts of your family’s life – including holidays. If you find yourself delaying or feeling anxious in the lead-up to family holidays because of eczema, you’re not alone. Eczema flare-ups can be unpredictable, and when you’re headed to a new location with different weather, different environmental triggers and restaurants you’ve never had to navigate food allergies with, it can feel pretty overwhelming.

But despite its challenges, eczema shouldn’t hold you back from making happy holiday memories! Here are a few holiday preparation tips that we hope will help ease some of that nervousness so you can find more peace and enjoy the good times.

First, Research Your Destination

By researching your destination, you’ll feel more prepared for possible triggers and managing flare-ups. Some things you might like to consider:

1. Weather 

Be aware of what type of weather you are likely to experience. If your child’s eczema is triggered by heat, choose a holiday destination or season when the weather is milder.

2. Accommodation amenities

Find out about your accommodation amenities and facilities; for example, is air conditioning available (for heat-triggered eczema)? Is there a bath for daily bath time (to maintain your skincare routine)? Are the floors carpeted (for eczema triggered by dust mites)?

3. Local medical resources

Find out where the closest pharmacy and medical centre are and how far away the hospital It’s always better to be prepared just in case of an emergency and know where to go for medical attention.

4. Local eateries and grocery stores

If food allergies or sensitivities are a concern for your family, make a list of local eateries that can provide safe options. Calling ahead to confirm is a great idea. If you plan to prep food at your accommodation, find out where you can source groceries nearby.

What to Pack to Go on Holidays When Your Child Had Eczema

When you’re on holiday and away from your everyday environment, sticking with your regular eczema skincare routine becomes even more important. We need to give the skin as much moisture and protection as possible to deal with a new environment and exposure to different triggers. It’s also a good idea to speak to your doctor before you go on holiday to review your eczema management plan.

We recommend packing your child’s go-to skincare products to use while you’re away, as finding the same products at your destination can be challenging. Be sure to pack their:

• Bath soak (if your accommodation doesn’t have a bath, consider taking a collapsible travel bath with you)
• 2-in1 shampoo and body wash
• Moisturiser (plenty of it!)
• Eczema-friendly SPF 50 sunscreen
• Prescription medication
• Cold compress (to take the heat out of very itchy skin)
• Eczema management plan from the doctor

What to Pack in Your Carry-on or Handbag

Whether you’re travelling by plane or car, it’s a good idea to have the essentials easily accessible in your handbag or carry-on for when you’re on the go. We recommend packing:

• Any prescription medication
• Moisturiser (you can transfer some to a small travel container to save room; just be sure to label it clearly)
• Cold compress (especially useful for a long journey in a warm car)
• Plenty of snacks that cater for your little one’s dietary requirements or allergies
  
  

We hope this blog helps you feel less overwhelmed about navigating holidays when your little one has eczema. A little bit of preparation goes a long way to give you peace of mind so you can relax and enjoy this special time with your loved ones!

This blog post was brought to you and your family with love from the Itchy Baby Co. team x. 

Disclaimer: Information provided is of a general nature only, and you should always consult your medical professional.