Ask Little Gulliver – Page 2

Christmas markets cruise for kids?

Andrea said: July 17 2011 4:55 PM

Christkindl Markt

Just wondering if you know of any cruise lines in Europe that do the Christmas Markets and will take children aged from 2 and 3 quarters to 8?

Thanks

Andrea

Donna @ Little Gulliver said: July 22 2011 4:29 PM

Hi Andrea,

its lovely to hear from you again. We hope your last European trip went well and are really pleased to see you’re planning another (also a little envious)!

The Christmas markets sound like a ‘must do’ activity for the bucket list and I think experiencing this when the kids are young sounds like lots of fun. However, I’m unsure of a specific cruise line to recommend.

History of the Christmas Markets

For those of us who know little of the Christmas markets, I’ll give a brief rundown of their background…The Christmas markets are a tradition believed to have

started in Germany in 1434 and are now held all over Europe. There are genuine market stalls where visitors can search for handcrafted gifts while soaking up the Christmas traditions (such as Santa, nativity scenes and carolling). And for us in the southern hemisphere it is a way of experiencing the best of a European winter Christmas.

I love the tradition of the Christmas markets and it seems those in Germany may be the best to check out, with Nuremberg being the most famous. They run from late November to the third week of December or later, depending on the location. Another thing about sticking to a German cruise is that you may be able to select a shorter option (and can make an exit if it isn’t suiting the kids) while still able to see the ‘best of the best.’ Some families prefer a longer cruise and incorporate sight-seeing with the Christmas markets. Parents report they are able to have some adult time on shore, while leaving the kids in the care of experienced workers.

Cruises for Families

I would suggest checking the Cruises for families website (type in destination Europe, date November or December 2011) and have a look at the types of cruises it suggests. It will allow you to get a feel of your ‘ideal’ Christmas markets family cruise. If you find one you really like, it is then a matter of tracking down this or a similar through a local (Australian) agent ot tour operator. (Generally you cannot book with an overseas operator. Australian cruise enthusiasts are constantly unhappy that this invariably means paying more for the same cruise than our European counterparts).

Further Reading

Europes best Christmas markets

Taking teens to the Christmas markets

Christmas market cruises

Christmas market tour search

Australian Operator

http://www.globaljourneys.com/river_cruises/europe/europe/uniworld/uniccm.php

I hope you find this information useful. Let us know how you go, I’ve loved reading about these cruises and would love to go on one!

Thanks again for contacting us and sorry we can’t be of more help.

Kind regards,

Donna

Dad’s Malaysian trip with his 16 month old daughter

I am stressing out mainly over checking in, going through customs and boarding the aircraft. As I figure it, I will be trying to man handle an active child (who only knows how to run and not walk), large suitcase and carry on luggage. I am not sure whether my daughter should be sedated or me? I am flying from Brisbane with Malaysian airlines.

I have read your top ten tips and, although helpful I was hoping for something a little more specific to my circumstances.

Donna @ Little Gulliver said: June 8 2011 5:33 PM

Hi Gavin,

thanks for your question. It is understandable that travelling with the little one can seem a bit daunting, especially doing it on your own for the first time. There are a few things that you can think about which may help make things easier. Check out our business www.LittleGulliver.com.au we may have some products of interest to you…travelling with our first born is how the business came about.

Check in

Try to think of it as a holiday, even the airport! If you’re checking in on your own, consider hiring a trolley from outside the airport. That way you can have all your gear on it and a spare hand for the little one prior to check in. If you have some close friend or family who’s happy to help – bring them along to the airport. They could be an extra hand, up to the International Gate at least (and probably wouldn’t mind at all)!

Airport

Consider use of a harness. For a 16 month old a 2-in-1 Harness Buddy could be a good option – as it’s cute, cuddly and has a harness for a tail!
Also look at a popular backpack stroller called a ‘quicksmart’ it folds up small enough to go in the overhead locker on planes, so may help you move the child through the airport and allow for a nap etc if neccessary. It might be handy too at your destination.
Another option could be a baby carrier, this keeps the baby close while you have your hands free. Only thought here is, that your daughter may be starting to be a bit heavy and you’ve mentioned she’s really active…

Activities

Look at things you will both be enthusiastic about during the trip. Would you like to do some colouring together or reading? For this age group, maybe consider things to chew and feel and maybe a board book. A favourite story book? A teddy? A Car? I really like the ‘chubbies’ range for smaller kids as they’re big and robust. Some might like a new cuddly toy with different textures they can touch. Don’t forget the simple things, singing ‘Twinkle Twinkle’ (you don’t have to belt it out –

maybe just sing it quietly in her ear), playing peek a boo, tickling – things you know she enjoys. Doodle Pro’s are really popular. And I think I’ve mentioned (in an earlier post) one time where my daughter and I spent a long time taking her shoes and socs on and off!

Eating

Consider if your child has any food requirements. It can be good to take more snacks than you think you might need. I have had experiences where we have been stuck on the tarmac or unable to land and had run out of food! At 16 months, those squeezIe fruit and vegetable packs are great (such as Rafferty’s Garden). Bananas and rusks are great. Does she have a favourite bakery item? Will you need bottles? Also, look at our Drop Buddy, Groovy Gripper and Disposable Bibs. See our mealtime category.

Nappies

Our range of ‘Diaper Buds’ have been hugely popular. Each nappy is vacuum sealed so it takes up less space – great for travel (you can fit 3 Diaper Buds in the space of 1 normal nappy).

Sleeping.

Think about something cute like a Zoobie, its a soft cuddly toy which opens up to reveal a pillow and a blanket – all in one. Think about a neck roll (the monkey animal neck rolls are really cute). Also, do you have bedding organised at the other end? Can you hire a cot?

Seating

At this age your child is likely to be over 10 kilos. You could consider a CARES harness if you have booked or are allocated your own seat. While the CARES is great for safety, (protecting the child’s upper torso, much like a car seat does in cars) – it does add the bonus of being difficult for a child to undo. Airline seat belts are, as you know, childs play to unbuckle! Also, I like to sit near the aisle, its easier to get in and out for the inevitable nappy changes. If you get 2 seats, I prefer the child in the middle, as on the aisle their heads, hands and feet are prone to hanging out and getting knocked by other passengers and trolleys.

On board

Don’t hesitate to contact your airline if you have any questions about onboard facilities. (Don’t expect great answers though, sometimes it pays to ring a few times). If you haven’t already looked the Malaysian Airlines flying with children section (kids corner) it’s here. If you know which aircraft you will be flying on check www.seatguru.com, you may like to be near toilets with change tables or located in a particular part of the aircraft.

Other blogs say…

http://www.lonelyplanet.com/thorntree/thread.jspa?threadID=548067

http://parents.berkeley.edu/advice/going/long-flights.html

Anyway, these are just a few ideas. I think its good that you are thinking about it now, but once you leave, just relax and enjoy. Ask for and accept help when you are comfortable doing so, watch a movie, cuddle and do some people watching. Most of all I hope the 2 of you enjoy some great daughter and dad time!

Also, let me know if you have any other thoughts and enjoy the trip!

Regards,

Donna

Family-friendly accommodation in Sydney

Fabiana said: February 3rd 2011 9:59 PM

I am looking for a place to stay 4 nights with an 18 months old. Any tips of where in Sidney.

Donna @ Travel Toddler said: April 15th 2011 4:29 PM

Fabiana, sincere apologies that your email was missed! (We receive a lot of spam and your email got mixed up). I love Sydney and am happy to share a few thoughts…

For a short time in Sydney, definitely stay somewhere around the harbour, budget permitting. This will give you great access to most tourist destinations. I have always wanted to stay at the Park Hyatt myself, (hopefully soon)! Other popular spots to stay and visit include Circular Quay, Darling Harbour and The Rocks. Also, at 18 months, a lovely day out for your child could be a visit to Taronga Zoo and catching a ferry there is lots of fun. The views are magnificent! (Mind, the zoo is rather hilly, so a stroller may be rather handy for tired little legs). And of course you can’t miss the Harbour Bridge and Opera House!

For some extra information, including great sightseeing and accommodation tips, visit Sydney.com and Australia.com/Sydney.

Let me know if we can help you at all at Little Gulliver.

Thank you for your query and enjoy Sydney!

Regards,

Donna

Bed rails for travel?

Heide said: April 6th 2011 9:59 PM

petronas-towers-i_2590367 — Petronas Towers

We are travelling to KL with our 2 daughters aged 5 & 2. Miss 2 sleeps in a normal single bed but with a bed rail. The hotel we are staying at cannot provide a bed rail for her (we will need on on each side) and we are having trouble hiring a set. Do you have any suggestions? We looked a DreamTubes but they do not allow the child to be tucked in. Thanks

Donna @ Little Gulliver said: April 8th 2011 4:43 PM

Hello Heide,

Thanks for your email, I’ve been happy to have a look and make some suggestions.

Dream Tubes

You’re right, the Dream Tubes seem like the best, certainly easiest, option. We have them on the radar for Little Gulliver, as we’re expanding our ‘Resting’ category. I hadn’t considered the tucking issue though. I must say outright that I haven’t used them, but I agree, certainly from the way they look there is no option to tuck under the tubes once installed. Its a shame as it seems like an otherwise perfect solution.

I would say though, generally, that the tucking wouldn’t bother our little ones. I would only worry about it for especially cold nights and would look at a sleeping bag or sleep suit to be safe. At least you should be OK there for your KL trip though (weather wise) and hotel rooms are generally nicely temperature controlled anyway. Just a sheet and blanket (even tucked in at the bottom) should be enough. And you could adjust with warmer or cooler pyjamas to suit.

I’ve also read a number of reviews on the Dream Tubes and people certainly seem to like them. The only negative I’ve heard about is the cost. For anyone who hasn’t seen them, they are inflatable ‘tubes’ you zip into a bed cover. This ‘You Tube’ video shows how to install them…

Magic Bumpers

These are foam bed rails. I’m uncertain if they can be purchased in Australia (but wonder whether a Clark Rubber or similar could cut out a couple to size)? They fit under the fitted sheet and mattress cover, so you may have the same problem as with the Dream Tubes, hard to tuck in. They would also take up more packing space, whereas the Dream Tubes fold up to the size of a beach towel. Take a look at the link and have a think. More on Magic Bumpers here.

Mattress only

Then, I wondered whether there would be room in your accommodation to do a little rearranging at bed time…could you potentially put the mattress on the floor? She may not like it though if her sister is in the ‘big girl bed’ and fiddling with the mattress could get a little annoying and too much work for a holiday!

Compact Travel Bed

Another thought is to consider a travel bed. They are either on or low to the ground, so worth a look. (Something like the Regalo could also be handy at home, when the inevitable sleep overs start)! I did a post about this you might like to check Little Gulliver Blog post – Compact Travel Bed.

Other thoughts

I’ve also wondered about the Toddler Coddler ‘Bedbugz’, but its looks like it may work the same as the Dream Tubes. I would also say they’d be harder to find in Australia then the Dream Tubes, as they don’t seem to have a local distributor?

Then there’s the Regalo Hide Away Bed Rail, but even if you liked them they may be too large for travel and awkward to install at your destination.

Hiring

Yes, I see what you mean about the hiring problem. It seems like you can get everything except for a bed rail! Here’s an article about baby equipment hire in kuala lumpur. It does suggest one hire/retail baby shop which you may not have looked at. Another thought could be to check if you can buy an appropriate bed rail to meet you there and maybe donate it (if it’s too big to bring home) before you leave? I’ve heard of people doing that before with strollers.

And finally

We have our 2yo in a bed too. We haven’t needed the rails though as its a little junior bed, so low to the ground. We’re travelling shortly for the first time since he’s been out of the cot, so it’s been good to get me thinking about what we’ll do. With your daughter though, as she’s in a normal single bed now, she may be already used to the height of the bed off the ground. Maybe you could try her without rails and have an assortment of pillows and blankets on the ground around her just in case?

I hope this post has been of some help, I’d love to hear how you go. Enjoy the rest of your planning and let us know if we can help again!

Regards,

Donna.

Best time of day to travel

Mel said: March 27th 2011 8:22 PM
childinrestrained Hi! I will be traveling alone with my 19 month old son. What would be the best time to travel? I can get a 1am flight and I think I could get him back to sleep or one during the day? He is a very active little boy so I am leaning towards a night time flight. And I’ve checked, there are no flights around his bed time. He does travel well in the car on long trips. Any help would be great.

Donna @ Travel Toddler said: March 29th 2011 12:35 PM

Hi Mel,

a trip with your son sounds fun! I understand your thoughts on the best time to travel and it is certainly one we all wonder about. I guess its also worth giving some extra consideration when you’re travelling alone AND crossing a time zone, as you may be.

My only thoughts about travelling with a small child at night is to consider the worse case scenario. If he can’t get to sleep – neither can you and you may both begin your trip worn out. Of course you may
both board, drift off and wake blissfully hours later, its really hard to know!

Another thought is to consider your arrival time. Once I board a long flight I switch to the destination time and try and sleep accordingly. This always works for me and luckily I don’t suffer from jet lag. (I haven’t been able to try this with the kids though). The important thing is to consider what time of the day you will arrive at your destination -will you easily be able to make your way to your accommodation?

Of course, with either of these situations, you may not be able to have a choice, but when you do its something to think about.

To help with comfort on the plane take a look at the Zoobies (3-in-1 plush toy, pillow, blanket), animal neck rolls, disposable bibs and neoprene bibs. If you’re not using nappy pants, consider them as they are handy for a stand up change on the go. Try the ones that pull apart at the side (for travel they may be easier to get off if there’s a mess inside). The Little Gulliver Shop by age – Toddler category may be helpful. Also, I always pack a lunch box full of healthy snacks (after a history of flight delays). Make sure he understands only one snack at a time though (thats another story)!

playette_travel tray — Playette – Kids Travel Tray

And really, there are so many entertaining things on planes, people watching, perhaps looking out a window and don’t discount the in-flight magazine for a conversation starter. Take a look at the Little Gulliver – Play category for some extra activity ideas. Consider some colouring, while our Doodle Pro’s and Aquadoodle’s are popular for no mess. The Create-a-scene sticker books are also great for some creative fun with mum.

I’ve included some other blogs that have talked about some of these issues, you may find them useful;

is there a best time of day to travel with a baby or toddler?

first-time-traveling-with-baby-is-there-best-time-to-fly-other-advice

best time to fly part 1

travel tips

I think, instinctively, parents know whats best for their kids. So, after giving it some thought you feel your son will sleep well on the 1am flight, then perhaps he will. Ultimately, you’ve got to be comfortable and then, all going well, he too will be relaxed and enjoy the trip.

I hope you find this useful. I’ll also post your question on Little Gulliver’s Facebook page, some of the other parents (many of them frequent long haul travellers), may have some useful feedback.

Let me know what you decide and how it goes!

Regards,

Donna

Transport in Bali and Cuba

Nadia said: March 13th 2011 3:58 PM

Sent: March 14 2011 10:00 AM

My baby will be 8 months when travelling to Bali and 14 months when travelling to Cuba.

Do i need to take a baby seat with me, are seat belts installed in these country’s’ or is there other products that can help ensure the safety of my boy when travelling by car or bus without lugging around a cumbersome seat (we intend to backpack around).

Donna @ Little Gulliver said: March 17 2011 10:54 AM

Hi Nadia,

Car seats and their world-wide requirements is a really common question and sadly so hard to find information on. My thoughts are though, that I’m afraid you can’t go past a car seat to ensure ultimate safety, especially as some say driving in those areas tends to be a bit “haphazard”. The best option may be to take a car seat with you for car travel, but buses are unlikely to have seat belts.

International car seat laws

Now, the really annoying part for parents trying to do the right thing is that car seat standards are different the world over. Therefore, car seats approved for use here in Australia are unlikely to be “approved” for use overseas. So, is taking your own car seat practical anyway? In the 2 areas you are looking at it could be safe to assume the laws may not be too strict? And if you want to take a car seat on a plane that is a different problem all together.

I’ve got a few thoughts though, on how to make this a bit easier;

Rear facing car seat

I guess at 8 months and 14 months your son would still be in a rear facing car seat (at between around 9 – 11 kilos). If you didn’t want to take your own car seat, consider getting a second hand one specifically for the trip or a budget, light-weight version?

There’s also the Sit n Stroll from Lilly Gold, these are quite popular overseas and have had some good reviews. (I noticed there’s one on ebay in Australia at the moment. Also, I’m unsure if it is approved for use in Australian airlines or cars, so may just be useful for overseas travel). It’s worth checking how easy it is to convert from a stroller to a car seat…

The cars in both Bali and Cuba should have seat belts (but no bolts) so you’ll be fine installing a seat in a car, but as I mentioned the buses are unlikely to have seat belts (but you never know). Also, maybe look at a car seat which has a reclining feature since you may be on the road during sleep times.

Car Seat bags

Consider a car seat bag. Its an easy way to transport the car seat when not in use, there are some with wheels which make it easier to cart around. It also a great space to cram some extra nappies and wipes into.

Stroller

If you’re considering taking a stroller, we use a Quicksmart for travel. Another great option is to get a cheap umbrella stroller, one of the $20 varieties. They do the trick, you wont mind it it gets damaged in transit and you can even leave it there if you’re finished with it. Again, some sort of stroller bag may be handy, depending on what you’re already taking. And, have you seen the Ride On Carry On? I’m still a bit on the fence with this one, but it is popular and I can see it would be useful if you need an extra pair of hands. It may not work with your style of backpack anyway?

Car seat alternatives

I have to say first, that there really is no alternative to a car seat. But take a look at these and see what you think. There are 2 products that I know of which are designed to improve safety in vehicles. Again, neither really replaces the car seat. One is the Safefit. It moves a regular car seat strap into a more suitable position for a child. Coupled with a cushion booster seat to lift the child up, it could work well. Again though, some cushion booster’s are recommended from around 18 kilos, so not recommended for your child’s size. Another is the Ride Safer Vest. I’m not sure, again whether these would suit you at 8 and 14 months and how easily you could get one. A blog I have found useful (though our youngest is now 2, sigh), Travels with Baby, has a great car seat alternatives post (bearing in mind its US based).

Some reading on Cuba

In Cuba, it sounds like the Casa’s, hotels and rented apartments are great options for families, while travelling on public transport works well. Apparently just allow extra time for travel, as many Cubans will want to stop you to see your child! We have family visiting Cuba as we speak, so I may be able to add some more feedback about travelling there at a later time.

http://www.babygoes2.com/

http://www.lonelyplanet.com/

http://www.travelpod.com/

http://www.tripadvisor.com/

Some reading on Bali

http://www.balibaby.com/

http://www.tripadvisor.com/

CARES

Your son may still be too young to fit into a CARES flight harness for the travel you have planned for this year. It’s worth some thought for the future though, especially as you seem to be frequent travellers. And, of course, it and other handy Travel Essentials for Kids are available from www.LittleGulliver.com.au!

I hope I’ve been able to add some useful insights and information for you here. I’d love to hear what you think and how you go. They sound like great trips. There is a lot to think about re the car seat, so in the end, just go with what you feel comfortable with.

Finally, apologies for my delay in replying, I’m catching up after the labour day long weekend here in Victoria. We had some beautiful Autumn weather so all was good!

Regards,

Donna.

Child safety on board light aircraft

Phone query from Doug: March 1st 2011

Little Gulliver had a lovely phone call from Doug, who pilots his own light aircraft. He is looking into safety on board when he takes his grandchildren on a trip. The CARES will be used for the older children, but what are the best options for the baby (then aged approximately 3 months old)? The aircraft does not have bassinets installed.

Ben @ Little Gulliver said: March 3 2011 1:18 PM

Hello Doug,

Thanks for visiting Little Gulliver and your query on Tuesday. I spoke to Donna, our chief researcher, and your findings are in line with our understanding.

CARES with packaging For children over 1, the only two child restraint options for use in all phases of flight are an Australian standard car seat (AS 1754) or CARES restraint. Although, for an Aust. car seat to comply, the airline must be willing to provide the 3^rd overhead tether belt which may then restrict the use of any tray table directly behind the child’s seat and also limit feet rest area for the passenger behind. Each car seat will carry a different height and width dimension and this is why the airlines still have a policy of needing the exact make and model of the seat to cross check with the type of airline seat the child will most likely use.

We do not have access to any lists of which carseat is suitable for which airline seat unfortunately. For your particular aircraft, any Australian approved car seat that fits your seat configuration should provide a compliant seat for your baby passengers who are too young for a CARES. It will need to be setup in the window seat or bulkhead seat so it does not impede other passenger’s ability to move about. One brand we’ve seen mentioned is the Britax Safe N Sound Compaq car seat. The other brands I’d seen mentioned are US standard only so not available for use out here.

Additionally, airlines traditionally only recognise the car seat safety standard requirements of the country they are registered in, so US airlines will be OK with US standard car seats but not allow Aust standard ones on board. This makes it very difficult if travelling across multiple airlines for any overseas travel.

For a baby flyer, the options are even more limited. The infant lap belt is common on Australian airlines but banned in other parts of the world. Evidence appears to show them as relatively ineffective in certain circumstances too. A baby can be in a bassinet arrangement if under 3 months old, but you indicated this isn’t relevant for your charter craft. A suitable car seat or the infant lap belt are the only approved item for such young flyers.

Here’s a couple of articles that may be of interest, apologies if you’ve come across them already. Flying with babies – this is an article Donna published on our blog. This article also links to a Flight Safety Australia Fly Baby Fly discussing babies on board (it was published in 2004, but there appears to have been little progress on the issue since). We also list the links to the latest child restraint policies for most local airlines here.

I hope this helps, please let me know if I can assist with any other queries.

Kind regards

Ben

Flying 24hours with a Toddler

Chantelle said: February 21st 2011 9:39 AM

It will be our first time taking our 14 month on a plane to USA. Any tips for the such long flight would be a great help?

Donna @ Little Gulliver said: February 22nd 2011 1:02 PM

Hi Chantelle,

How lovely! At 14 months the little ones can be so different, some are up and about, on solids, breastfeeding or bottle. Travel tips can also depend a little on whether you’re travelling alone or with your partner. Other things can make a difference, such as whether you’re travelling on a holiday or visiting family (who may be able to have some goodies available for you on arrival). So, I’m giving a few general tips which I’ve found useful…
I’m guessing though that you are travelling with your partner, as you said ‘our first time’. This can make it easier, as that extra pair of hands is handy for a break for yourself, or even if your child needs a cuddle just as your meal arrives. On the other hand travelling alone with a toddler is ideal, as they really just want to be with you and its a great reason to enjoy some time together while you’re catered on!

You may have already looked at our shop by age category and flying with babies article. It may be worth a look if you haven’t, even though you’ve moved into the toddler years. Also, think about whether you may prefer a bassinet on board and consider booking one if you can. Think about whether booking a bassinet means your seat won’t recline and if that is OK with you. (In most aircraft the row of seats where the bassinets are don’t recline). It will also depend on the weight of your child, you may find you’re past the bassinet range on your airline.

Seating-wise, some parents opt to book a seat for their child, even if they don’t need to for the under 2’s. Alternatively you may also find yourself with a spare seat, which will allow you some extra room to spread out. At 14 months your child may be around 10 kilos, in which case the CARES harness is also an option (recommended for use with children weighing between 10-20 kilos). Much like a carseat does in a car, the CARES is attached to the aircraft seat and provides upper torso support. Some parents like it as it is more difficult to wriggle out of than the aircraft seat belts!

You may like to think about the layout of the plane – is there a particular location you may like, such as closer or further from the toilets etc. www.seatguru.com is a helpful resource for that as it shows the layouts of the aircraft. I generally like to sit on the aisle, as it is easier to get in and out with the little ones.

I have always found a Baby Carrier (like a Baby Bjorn or Infantino) for boarding and disembarking the

: Portable baby chair

plane really handy, depending on how big your toddler is now. Your child may be up and about already and too heavy! I also love the smart nappy bag which can be worn as a satchel or as a back pack – perfect for when you have baby in a carrier on the front! It’s really handy when travelling. Check out www.LittleGulliver.com.au for other handy baby travel items such as disposable bibs (very popular) and (new to the market) disposable change mats. Consider a breastfeeding blanket, portable baby chair and perhaps a Pea Pod travel bed or a zoobie (plush toy, pillow and blanket in one).

Some people mention medicating children and problems with their ears and the like. While it is always a good idea to have some pain relief with you, just in case, I have never found this to be a problem. When I first started travelling I gave them drinks if they looked anxious on take off and landing, but now we just sing songs or look through a book (our youngest has just turned 2).

Food-wise, consider a good insulated lunch box and drink bottle. Take more snacks than you think

Spencil Lunch Box

you will ever need. Then, at the appropriate time, pick one out or let them choose one only. I find mine always pick the really unhealthy thing first and when travelling I think that is OK. You may be treated to some great things on the plane though. Mine couldn’t keep the smiles off their faces on the way to Cairns once, they were given the biggest ice creams they had ever seen!

Nappy-wise, go for nappy pants. If they are wet only, I find they are so much easier to get on and off as they can do it standing up. Take plenty of wipes as they’re handy for all sorts of things. I also use disposable nappy sacs for clean up, to move any sort of rubbish out of your seating area quickly and easily.

Activity-wise, take something you know your child will like and I always get something new – more interesting for both of you! Maybe try an Aquadoodle, colour wonder, play doh, chubbies (cars, planes). For some ideas on travel activities see Ten tips for keeping a toddler busy on a plane and my Top ten travel activities.

Here’s some blog’s where mums have discussed their experiences on flying long haul with a 14 month old, they cover some great topics; Long Haul trips with 14 month old, Long Distance Airplane travel with babies, Flying long haul with 14 month old and Breastfeeding tips for travel.

I’ve sprinkled a number of Little Gulliver products through here, not as an intentional plug, but we’re got so many great products on board its hard for me to give tips without recommending them!

I think the most important tip though – is to relax and enjoy the trip! I know that sounds obvious, but I know with myself I get really wrapped up with the details and it generally works out OK anyway! Having said that, it doesn’t hurt to expect some discomfort – either a plane will be delayed or you get a headache or something…it is surprising how much more prepared for things you can be if you’ve considered it beforehand. And since you’ve emailed us, you’re obviously thinking about it, so are likely to be very organised!

Have a great time and let us know how you go.

Regards,

Donna

Which Greek island?

Dee said: February 17th 2011 8:22 AM

We are wanting to go to greece in July with our 12 month old girl. Could you suggest the best islands with easy access to beautiful beaches. Want to stay somewhere nice and like the idea of catching those big ferries. Would like to do lefkhada area as its beautiful. Also thinking of Santorini or folegandros if possible.

let me know what you think

thank you

Donna @ Travel Toddler said: February 17th 2011 9:47 PM

Hello Dee,

Sounds lovely! It will be a wonderful area to see and at 12 months old, your daughter may still be able to have some naps in her stroller while you enjoy the sights. And it looks like there will be plenty to wear her out! I like the thought of the easy packing too, just some summer outfits should do it.

You’re right – the Lefkada Island looks beautiful and as it is so close to the mainland, you could then venture out to islands, further away, without too much extra travel. There is some handy information on the area and different beaches here. I’ve also included a You Tube clip, its fairly long – but the views and the music will certainly get you in the mood while you plan your holiday!

I haven’t been to Greece (sadly with or without kids) but the Little Nomads team have put together a comprehensive section on ‘Greece With Kids‘ which I think you will find useful. (Just keep in mind it is Canadian/American based, so travel times etc will be based on their location). I also checked my well thumbed through copy of William Grey’s ‘Travel with Kids’. He suggests that the Cyclades “are well suited to island hopping by ferry cruise ship or chartered yacht.” Since Santorini is one of the 39 islands that make up this area, it may be a good place for your ferry ride.

I also love this thread from Lonely Planet, its from 2007, but does have some great detail on Folegandros with a Toddler you might find useful. Seems like you may need to stock up on nappies on the mainland, but perhaps its changed since then.

The only thing I wondered about is the timing. You mentioned July and there are some suggestions that the more popular islands are particularly busy in July and August. This is worth checking worth your travel professional for advice if it is a concern.

I’d love to hear how your planning goes and see some photos once you’re back. Enjoy!

Regards,

Donna

Compact travel bed

Karon said: January 7th 2011 3:58 PM

Hi Can you tell me is there anywhere in australia that sells a toddler travel n trundle or similar? we have 3 months overseas for our 4yr old and these roll up like a sleeping bag compact for travel

thanks

Donna @ Travel Toddler said: January 9th 2011 3:54 PM

Hi Karon,

I haven’t seen the ‘Toddler Travel n Trundle’ available in Australia – they do look great though.

Other products to consider could be;

KinderKot – they are recommended up to 4 years, so check whether it may suit size-wise, you may be on the upper limits. It has a self inflating mattress, so seems quite comfortable. The only negative feedback I have heard on these is they can be complex to pack up – but I imagine you could get quite good at it after a few months! I like the idea of this if the child may be sharing a bedroom with you, the cover sort of creates some privacy. But for the same reason, a four year old may not like the cover and feel a little squashed or closed in?

Kindy Kamper – They have a new ‘Kindy Kamper Traveller’, which suits up to 5 years. I have heard good things about these, but haven’t seen one myself.

Regalo Portable Child Bed – This folds up quite small and light, you could team it with a sleeping bag etc. It suits up to a 6 year old and comes with a fitted sheet and travel bag. If you are interested in this one, let me know as I am looking to stock them at Little Gulliver.

Aerobed Sleepover – This inflatable bed rolls up into a backpack and comes with its own pump. We have a bigger size and find them great. Just make sure it isn’t “played” on and take a repair kit. We use a pool repair kit on ours – we have repaired it once (near the valve) and have had no more trouble.

Dream Tubes – these are ‘blow up’ bed rails, which you could use of your child was in their own bed during the trip. At 4 your child may be in a single bed at home anyway (and be used to the height of the bed and not likely to fall out), but these may be handy on the road if you are using a junior bed at home.

I haven’t used any of these products myself, but certainly they are all worth a look. I hope you find the information useful and have a wonderful time overseas! Apologies for my delay in replying, we’re just getting back on board after the Christmas / New Year break.

Also, I’d love to hear what you end up deciding on and how the trip goes! It’s so easy to be jealous in this job…

Regards,

Donna