Travel Tips
We're trying to compile some
useful travel tips without including the obvious "get to
the airport early".
Having
said that, some of these may be more useful than others,
but maybe there's a gem in there that will help you on your travels.
The list is just beginning so, by all means, if you have some good
advice for traveling parents please send it to us and we'll be sure to
include it, giving you full credit. |
| At the Airport |
| Put and I.D. Bracelet on your
toddler. Some airlines advise this just in case your child gets lost in
airport
crowds. Include your child's name, your name, your destination and your
home address and phone number. |
-Smile sweetly
and helplessly at everyone and you may get help and be able to queue
jump.
-Ask if your flight is full when checking
in. Some assistants will block out the seat next to you in a
less full flight or offer you the option of seating next to a vacant
seat. This is particularly valuable if traveling with a
toddler under 24months without a seat.
-Get on the plane first and off the plane last to
get a better chance of assistance from cabin crew.
-Look out for fast track customs and immigration
check points for those traveling with infants.
curtesy: http://www.flyingwithkids.com |
If
your child is not yet a pro walker always
take a lite duty stroller and gate check it when bording the plane.
This is especially handy when connecting. You might think it'd be
better to not lug that piece of gear but you'll be happy when you exit
the plane and the stroller is right there waiting for you.
curtesy: L.A. Baby Gear
Rental experience |
| Use Curbside
checking if at possible, they are a little more lenient with luggage
weight. That way
once you get inside the airport you can just breeze through. curtesy:
http://www.travelbargainmama.com |
| If your child is
taking any medication, carry the prescription.
The security
staff is usually familiar with OTC medicine. curtesy:
http://www.travelbargainmama.com |
| If
you've got an escape artist or a run-away child, do yourself a huge
favor
and get a toddler harness. It's also called a "Toddler Tether"
or a "Security Harness". I found a really cute one
online that
also doubles as a small back-pack for your child and is fun to
wear. They have several different ones -monkey, puppy, etc. I
suggest letting them wear it around the house a little to get used to
it
and to have fun with the "tail", or keep it "special" and only allow it
on trips and then your child will look forward to it. curtesy:
http://www.momsminivan.com |
| Back to top |
| On
the Airplane |
| If
you are in the process of potty training, forget it during your
flight. Put your toddler in pull ups or diapers for the entire trip. curtesy:
http://www.keepkidshealthy.com
|
A mom from
Atlanta, determined to read her own book on plane rides,
invested in a $5 tape recorder from Target and checked out children's
books on tape from her local library before a trip (or you can download an audio
book to your ipod). Her four-year-old
gets to "read" (quietly at that) and so does she. Again, newness counts
for a lot, so bring along books your child has yet to read. The same
principle can be applied to older kids. Find out what's on their
reading list and pick up a copy before the trip. Bring out your
surprise just before takeoff.
curtesy: http://www.sallybernstein.com |
| A new bag of
toys for the car or plane. You can't underestimate the
value of new loot for the car or plane ride. One mom from San Diego
brings a small bag filled with new toys for each trip and pulls them
out one by one. Handled deftly, this exercise takes her the entire
plane (or car) ride. curtesy: http://www.sallybernstein.com |
| Make sure
kids are dressed
for traveling. Uncomfortable
clothing can make it very
difficult to travel without
stress, so make sure everyone
is wearing clothing that is
comfortable and clothing that
can be removed easily if
necessary. Layers work best
for traveling, especially
when you're crossing climates
and time zones. |
-Be prepared to
lose stuff (and don't get fussed when you do).
-Keep smiling at the baby.
-Ignore rude people, especially those whose job it
is to help. Only you can know the right way to handle your child. |
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L.A.
Baby Gear Rental
