Parents Start Here

With travel season upon us, here’s a list of FAQs.

(1) Should I buy a ticket for my infant/toddler?

Definitely get your child his/her own seat. There’s a chance you may not use it but there’s a chance you will. And that’s the goal…for your child to sit in his/her own seat. The seat will give you some extra space to play, to stretch out, to feed and to not bother other passengers. There’s nothing more irritating to a person without children then a child’s flailing arms and legs.

(2) Should we take the carseat?

My suggestion is absolutely. On our first airplane ride with Baby Boy Sprout, we went to Florida to visit family. He was just over a year old. We took his carseat and strapped it in his own plane seat. He was used to his carseat and found it soothing; so, he got into his carseat without any resistance. Plus, we didn’t have to worry about the carseats at the car rental company.

I found this awesome carrier for the carseat – Safe Fit Carseat Cover and Carry . It enabled me to carry the carseat over my shoulder, leaving my hands free to push the stroller. I was also able to carry a backpack! The Cover and Carry also lets you roll the carseat. I found it extremely helpful.

In addition, a number of parents rave about the Sit-n-Stroll . It’s a 5-in-1 carseat/stroller. The only drawback that I can see is that it may sit too low for some curious kids.

(3) What should I take for the flight?

Aside from the usual items in your diaper bag, make sure your diaper bag stocked with extra changes of clothes (for Mom and Dad too); a lot of wipes (they are useful in any situation); diaper sacks (these are scented and can also be used as a vomit bag); a few bottles and if appropriate, snacks; and, if appropriate, the pacifier. Baby Boy Sprout was a paci addict! I had several in my diaper bag, my purse and my coat.

A few weeks before we flew, I set aside some of his favorite toys and books. Then, when we got on the plane, I took those toys out and it was like Christmas! For older children, you can wrap their toys for added fun. Things like stickers, lego, dolls, race cars, coloring books and crayons, favorite books and comfort items like a blanket or stuffed animal are always a hit.

Some people have suggested taking a DVD player. But, don’t feel you need to buy a DVD player. We haven’t done it and we’ve survived.

(4) My child sleeps in a crib at home. What about sleeping arrangements at our destination?

While you can rent portable cribs at hotels, I don’t feel comfortable using them. First, I don’t know how well hotels sanitize them after use and secondly, I don’t know if hotels keep up with recalls and inspecting cribs for safety. Baby Boy Sprout slept in a crib at home but we also got him used to a pack-n-play. While he never slept in one at home, he knew it was a place of safety and comfort. So, whenever we travel, we purchased an inexpensive pack-n-play at our destination. Then, we donate it to a local charity.

(5) I’m spending alot of money to go on vacation. How do I manage to see the sights with children, especially the babies?

The biggest tip is to stick as close to your child’s schedule as possible. It’s the best way to avoid meltdowns and tantrums. Try and stick close to nap times, feedings times and bed time. Keep to the bed time routine so make sure you bring the bedtime books.

But, this doesn’t mean you can’t get out and enjoy your destination.
- Instead of taking a 3-hour tour, find one for 1 or 2 hours.
- Stay near the heart of the city or area you’re vacationing. If you’re going to Disney, stay at a Disney resort so you don’t spend valuable time traveling to the destination. This will also make it easier to go back and forth during nap times.
- If you’re traveling with grandparents or another family, ask if they’d be willing to babysit during a nap.
- Some hotels, resorts and cruise lines offer babysitting services. Ask, if this is a service offered.

(6) There’s so much baby gear. How can I possibly travel with all that my baby needs?

My suggestion is to ship as much as you can to your final destination and to purchase supplies upon arrival. We tend to visit alot of family across the country. So, a few days before arriving, I will mail a box of things I need. In addition, because of airlines charging for baggage, I also include clothes in the box.

Upon arrival, I purchase diapers, wipes, formula and other supplies I may need.

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