Thursday, July 26, 2012

Toddler Travel Tips



I'll admit it, I was a nervous wreck at the idea of taking my toddler on our recent trip to Florida. And I feared for all of our sanities after we made plans to fly to Orlando, then rent a car and drive to DeLand to see a friend, then drive to Jacksonville to stay with a few more friends. 
Essentially, this meant that B was going to have to sit through a 2-hour flight, then sit in a car for another 2 1/2 hours. WOW.

She's at a stage right now where sitting in the same place for more than a few minutes takes a prayer and a miracle, so I had nightmarish visions of situations, like... holding her down in my lap, while she screamed and fought me for most of the flight. Dozens of fellow passengers looking at me like, "Hey, lady... Do us all a favor and get control of your kiddo!" And then going on to put her in a car seat and listening to her scream and cry, "I get out!" {her new favorite statement} for another couple of hours. NO BUENO.

Of course, I heard countless, "Oh, she'll be fine..." 's from everyone, but I think every mommy knows their children well enough to be able to anticipate the worst-case scenario, and potentially prepare for that catastrophe!

So, I did some research... Used a little "mommy-sense"... And by the time we took off, I was feeling pretty comfortable and prepared. I'm not an expert by any means, but here are a few tips that helped us dodge a little turbulence :)


(in case you luck out and get a napper)



6. PACK EXTRA DIAPERS & WIPES
 these may come in handy in an emergent situation... 
it also may be a good idea to make sure you dress your child for quick diaper changes!

7. MOVE & GROOVE PRE-FLIGHT
take advantage of the airport and let them burn some energy...

check out the runway and let them explore!

8. IF POSSIBLE, BOOK A FLIGHT CLOSE TO THEIR NAP/SLEEP HOURS
traveling at night would probably be the easiest way to get a sleeper, but we booked our flights at 11:30am and 1:30pm. B usually naps from 12 - 2(ish)pm.

9. TRAVEL AS LIGHT AS POSSIBLE
it's easier to have free hands to devote to an adventurous toddler in a busy airport.

10. HAVE A HELPING HAND
it's easiest to fly with someone... a helping hand is great to have!

11. HAVE NECESSARY MEDICATIONS HANDY
I don't condone drugging your child just so you can enjoy your flight... But if it happens to be the case that your teething, runny-nosed child could use some Benadryl, then by all means...
A pain-reliever might be helpful too if they are full-blown teething (like B).

12. PACK BABY'S BIRTH CERTIFICATE
I've read a few forums where parents couldn't prove their lap child's age, and they were denied boarding (on a full flight), or they were forced to buy a seat for their child ($$$). This makes for a complete travel nightmare... So, bring a copy of baby's birth certificate in case there are any questions.

13. A FEW MORE HELPFUL TIPS:
If you are renting a car or car seat post-flight, {this article} is VERY helpful!
{HERE} is another helpful packing guide for family traveling.

10 comments:

Natalie said...

I have the same fears...I haven't flown with Nolan yet...but when I do these tips will be a life saver!

Katiern827 said...

These are great tips! We have had wonderful flying experiences with Meyer so far but I remember how terrified I was. Good call on the birth certificate! I would have never thought of that. I'll be sure to include that IF we make our trip in 2 weeks! I'm so glad B was a great traveler for you:)

Kat said...

love this post!!

Alycia Grayce (Crowley Party) said...

I don't have any kids yet, but I I totally agree with number 9 for anyone! haha I always try to bring as little as possible, makes traveling so much easier. Loving your blog :)!

my GFC is being weird, but it let me follow your GFC through my twitter account, who knew you could that?! I didn't!

Nicole said...

These are such great tips! I am totally dreading flying with my little nugget next month because she'll only be 9 months. Luckily it's a direct flight, but that means it'll be a little longer. :/ I wish she were big enough to use all these things though!

Amanda said...

when we fly to south america this winter i am totally coming back to this post!!!! thanks for all the awesome tips. you rock!

xo, amanda

Melly Ann said...

There is hope?! :) Thank goodness!!! I have a two year old and we're headed to FL this month!! Thanks. ;)

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