Summer holidays mean one thing for millions of Pakistani families: road trips to northern areas, beach outings to Hawkes Bay, or flights to visit relatives. But summer travel safety is often an afterthought — until someone collapses from heat exhaustion on the motorway, a child falls ill from contaminated roadside food, or a medical emergency strikes far from the nearest hospital. Whether you are driving to Naran, flying to Gilgit, or heading to a local resort, this complete checklist ensures your family stays healthy, safe, and prepared for anything.
According to the National Highway and Motorway Police, road accidents increase by 25% during summer holiday months in Pakistan, with tyre blowouts and driver fatigue as the top causes [Source: NHMP Annual Report, 2023].
Before You Leave: Health Preparation
Medical Kit Essentials
- ORS sachets (at least 10) — the single most important item for children and adults
- Paracetamol (tablets and syrup for children)
- Antihistamines for allergic reactions or insect bites
- Antiseptic cream and adhesive bandages
- Prescription medications for anyone with a chronic condition (diabetes, blood pressure, asthma) — carry double the amount for the trip duration
- Mosquito repellent with DEET or picaridin
- Sunscreen SPF 30+
- Motion sickness tablets if travelling with children prone to car sickness
- A digital thermometer
Pre-Trip Health Check
If any family member has a chronic illness, consult their doctor before travelling. Altitude changes (when heading to northern areas), extended sun exposure, and dietary changes can all destabilise controlled conditions. book a quick online consultation on Marham before your trip to get travel-specific medical advice.
Road Trip Safety
Vehicle Preparation
- Check tyre pressure and condition — blowouts peak in summer when road temperatures exceed 60°C
- Ensure AC is working properly; overheated cars are a heat stroke risk for children
- Top up engine coolant and carry spare water for the radiator
- Keep the fuel tank above half — fuel evaporates faster in extreme heat
- Carry a phone charger and a power bank for emergency calls
Driver Safety
- Never drive more than 3 hours without a 15–20 minute rest break
- Avoid driving between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. when heat and drowsiness peak
- Keep sunglasses on to reduce glare-related eye fatigue
- Switch drivers if possible on long motorway journeys
- Never leave children or pets in a parked car — interior temperatures can reach 70°C within 30 minutes
Keeping Children Safe in the Car
- Use proper car seats for children under 8 — Pakistan lacks enforcement but the safety need is real
- Keep windows shaded with sunshades on rear windows
- Offer water and light snacks every hour
- Stop for toilet breaks and stretching regularly
Food and Water Safety While Travelling
- Carry sealed bottled water — enough for the entire travel day
- Pack home-cooked snacks: sandwiches, fruit, biscuits, and dry fruit
- Avoid roadside dhabba food during summer — refrigeration is unreliable and flies are rampant
- If you must eat at a restaurant, choose freshly cooked, hot food — avoid salads, raita, and cut fruit
- Carry a small ice cooler for milk, yogurt, and perishable items
- Teach children to only drink from their own water bottles
Altitude Sickness: Northern Areas Warning
If your trip involves climbing above 2,500 metres (Naran, Kaghan, Gilgit-Baltistan, Skardu), altitude sickness is a real risk. It occurs when the body cannot adjust to lower oxygen levels at height.
- Symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, difficulty sleeping
- Prevention: ascend slowly — do not gain more than 500 metres of sleeping altitude per day above 2,500m
- Hydrate aggressively — drink at least 3–4 litres of water per day at altitude
- Avoid alcohol and sleeping pills
- If symptoms worsen (confusion, loss of balance, chest tightness), descend immediately — this is a medical emergency
Sun and Heat Protection Outdoors
- Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every 2 hours
- Wear hats, caps, or a scarf to protect the head and neck
- Rest in shade every 30–45 minutes during outdoor activities
- Carry ORS and extra water at all times
- Watch children closely for signs of heat exhaustion: excessive sweating, weakness, nausea, pale skin
Beach and Swimming Safety
- Never swim alone; always have a buddy system, especially for children
- Avoid swimming immediately after eating — wait at least 30 minutes
- Check for jellyfish warnings and strong currents before entering the sea
- Apply waterproof sunscreen and reapply after swimming
- Rinse off salt water and sand promptly to prevent skin irritation
- Do not let children swallow pool or sea water
Emergency Preparedness
- Save local emergency numbers for your destination: Rescue 1122, nearest hospital, and local police
- Carry a photocopy of family medical records and insurance cards
- Know the location of the nearest hospital or clinic at your destination
- Keep a basic first aid guide on your phone
- If a medical emergency occurs in a remote area, start an online consultation on Marham for immediate guidance while arranging physical transport
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I pack for a child under 2 travelling in summer?
Extra ORS sachets, paracetamol syrup, nappies, diaper rash cream, a hat, sunscreen (safe for babies over 6 months), a portable fan, and formula or expressed milk in an insulated bag. Breastfed babies should nurse frequently to stay hydrated.
Is it safe to travel to northern Pakistan in June–July?
Yes, but prepare for altitude, unpredictable weather, and limited medical facilities. Carry a full medical kit, acclimatise slowly, and avoid trekking alone. Road conditions can change suddenly due to rain and landslides.
How do I prevent car sickness in children?
Seat them in the middle where motion is least felt, ensure fresh air circulation, avoid heavy meals before travel, give a light anti-nausea medication (consult your paediatrician), and take regular breaks.
What if someone gets sick in a remote area with no hospital nearby?
Start basic first aid, use ORS for dehydration, and contact a doctor remotely via an online consultation. Having a pre-packed medical kit and saved emergency numbers can make the difference between a minor issue and a serious crisis.
Travel Smart, Travel Safe
Summer holidays are for making memories, not hospital visits. A little preparation — the right medical kit, enough water, safe food choices, and awareness of heat and altitude risks — goes a long way. Plan ahead, stay hydrated, and keep your family safe on every adventure this summer.
