Category: Ask Little Gulliver

Questions about family travel? Ask here. We are always happy to help.

Can you travel on a bus with a 20 month old?

Lynn said: November 3rd 2010 3:10 PM

hello i am looking to catch a train and a bus with my 20 month old daughter and i am wondering if that is allowed or if there has to be some form of childcare restraint?

Donna @ Little Gulliver said: November 3rd 2010 8:22 PM

Hi Lynn,

That’s a really good question! It can be confusing, with the rigorous child restraint laws for cars and the lack of for trains, buses, planes and taxi’s…that being said though, yes it is allowed in Australia, sort of!

 

caboose-476382__180Trains – I have not heard of trains having any restraints to date. There is no legal requirement that I know of. From a mums point of view, it is a lot of fun. My kids love it whenever we travel by train. My son was around that age when I first took him on a train, we had a window seat and I can still remember those wide eyes. He loved it!

Depending on how stable the train is travelling, you may feel more comfortable with her on your lap, or at least with an arm around beside you. I would also set your rules such as “we need to sit down on the train”. If you have a stroller with you, you may like to leave her strapped in it, if you are able to stand or crouch nearby (especially if she’s asleep)!

Strollers and trains – I should also mention the obvious things about strollers and train platforms, after the recent incidents…many platforms run downwards towards the tracks. If your stroller doesn’t have a wrist strap, grab one – they are a bit of peace of mind whenever you step out (trains or not).

Buses – These can be a little complicated and can depend on the size of the bus etc. Generally though, the law is that if a seatbelt is fitted the child (and yourself) should be seated using it. If the bus is under 12 seats an approved child restraint or booster seat should be fitted.

Sounds like you’ve got some fun outings ahead, take a camera!

Regards,

Donna

Some references include;

http://www.rta.nsw.gov.au/childrestraintlaws

http://www.kidsafevic.com.au/news-and-media-releases/114-pram-safety

Hiring Baby car seats in Sydney

Mary said: 18 September 2010 9:07 PM

Our daughter is flying from England in November with her 7 month old son. She requires a baby safety seat for the day she arrives in Sydney, and the same again when she leaves three weeks later. She has family members at each of her other destinations who can have baby seats fitted in their cars when she arrives, but Sydney is the the problem, because it will be for such a short time. Is it possible to hire one for one or two days at a time? She will be using private transport so doesn’t need to hire a taxi. I realise that that car will have to be fitted out to take a baby seat.  It will difficult enough travelling with a baby without having to carry her own baby seat, as well.

Donna @ Little Gulliver said: 20 September 2010 2:33 PM

Hello Mary,

That sounds great. I’m surmising you’re based in Australia and no doubt you’re a bit excited about seeing your Grandson (and his mum)!

Since you’ve mentioned private transport, hiring a car + seat is out. But, yes, absolutely you can hire just a seat for a day or 2 at a time. (Of course individual places may have a minimum number of days hire, so you may have to pay for some extra unused days). There are a number of businesses that hire baby equipment. You could also hire other things, like port-a-cots, strollers and the like.

I’ve listed a couple below that rent baby equipment in Sydney;

http://www.hireforbaby.com/

http://www.phdrentals.com.au/hire-baby-products.html

And a couple of Directory’s can be found here;

Kidspot’s Sydney Baby Hire Directory

Bubhub Nursery Eqipment Hire NSW

I’m sorry I can’t personally recommend any in particular, although I have used ‘Hire for Baby’ a couple of times. (It is a franchise business though and I have not used it in the Sydney region).

As your Grandson is around 7 months, the hire company will advise which car seat option will suit him – based on his weight. Baby capsules are most likely out and it will depend on whether he would suit a rear facing car seat or face forward. At his age, rear facing is likely to be the best option. Just check his weight before you make any calls.

Other things to consider when hiring the seat is delivery and installation. Depending on circumstances, they are likely to visit the house with the car and install a day or so before the baby arrives and pick it up the day after he leaves. It will also help if you can tell them the make and model of the car when booking. (I’m not sure why, but I’ve been asked this before)!

Also, with the private car, just make sure it is baby ready. It should already have at least 1 vehicle anchor point (to attach the car seat). Newer cars have these already. Otherwise, you can easily get 1 from a baby store or even a department store. Again, the baby hire organisation you use may be able to help on this.

I absolutely agree that your daughter need not bother about bringing her own seat. Apart from actually having to bother with it, I think they are better off staying in your car – where you know where it’s been. The other thing is legislation. I am uncertain as to whether UK car seats would even be approved for use in Australia and may not be worth the worry.

Here is a couple of recent posts which you may find helpful;

http://www.littlegulliver.com.au/blog/flying-with-babies/

http://www.littlegulliver.com.au/blog/choosing-an-aeroplane-seat/

Let me know if there are other things you’re wondering about that I haven’t mentioned. Also, Little Gulliver’s Baby category is here, in case you need any ideas.

Best of luck with the planning and I hope you get lots of cuddles!

Regards,

Donna

Milk for Toddlers Overseas

I can’t give you any specific feedback on milk in this region, but a milk powder does seem a smart alternative to using fresh milk if you’re concerned. I’m wondering if you’re looking at using bottled water also?

Lynn : July 21st 2010 12:22 PM

Hi, my 2.5 years old son has cow’s milk twice a day. My husband and I don’t trust the fresh milk in Asia and we are thinking about taking full cream milk powder with us. We are going away for 3 weeks, just wondering if milk powder are good for my 2.5 years old son to consume for 3 weeks overseas? If it’s good, can you recommend any brand. Thank you.

Donna @ Little Gulliver said: July 22nd 2010 2:16 PM

Hi Lynn,

3 weeks in Asia with the family sounds lovely!

I can understand your question, as our kids are big milk drinkers too. I can’t give you any specific feedback on milk in this region, but a milk powder does seem a smart alternative to using fresh milk if you’re concerned. I’m wondering if you’re looking at using bottled water also?

Normal powdered milk is generally considered to be low fat (even the full cream), so the fact that your son is over 2 means it is still suitable for him. Just make sure the milk powder is not a skim milk powder as this will not be suitable (until after 5 years of age).

The other alternative is to look at one of the specially prepared toddler milk powders. I can see that something like this (with the extra nutrients offered) may be good during travel. This can help if you’re not able to provide many of his favourite healthy meals and his nutritional needs may be higher than normal. If you do consider a toddler formula, I suggest checking the labelling. They can be quite high in sugar. Also, if it is in a large tin, you may like to carefully measure and decant what you may need (plus a bit extra) into a smaller clean container to save packing space. Just don’t forget the measuring spoon!

Just for the record though, I am generally against the toddler milks altogether (powdered or fresh) for kids with balanced diets. Choice (http://www.choice.com.au – toddler milk) provides 2 cautions which may be worth keeping in mind. Toddler milk (powdered or fresh) can;

a)  Contribute to constipation: so, if using toddler powder you may like to introduce it gradually leading up to your travel and gradually stop using it when you get home.

b)  Give toddlers a preference for drinking sweet milk rather than normal milk. Unlike infant formula, toddler milk is sweetened and often flavoured as well – just make sure your son brushes his teeth well before bed.

All this being said though, ordinary milk does have natural sugars and should be given only during meals or snack time anyway.

Another thing I have used (but only when travelling) is the formula in sachets. It can be convenient to use, as there is no need for measurements. Perhaps you could make one up in the morning (maybe take a plastic bottle with the water measure marked) if you have a fridge in your accommodation and are able to clean it thoroughly.

Another alternative is UHT milk. You may not want to travel with 1 litre cartons, but it may be handy to take a few of the small size. You could keep a couple in your day bag during transit and perhaps some straws (cut to size). Note, full size straws are handy for toddlers to use with bottled water when travelling too.

The recommended daily intake (RDI) of calcium for your son’s age group is 500mg. Just 1 cup of full fat milk is 295mg of calcium, so I guess you needn’t worry that he will need a lot of milk everyday. You may be OK to cut back (unless he’s missing it) by supplementing his calcium with extra cheese. A 30 g piece of cheddar cheese gives 255 mg (cheese sticks are handy for travelling). And half a cup of baked beans has 40mg of calcium (the small tins of baked beans are handy if he likes them).

I also like the pre prepared squeeze fruit and veg in sachets. Once again, if he’s a good eater than these may not be necessary, but are a handy way to consume fruit if fresh is not available. Like fresh fruit, he can suck on them (so no need for a spoon) and they can be easily disposed of. I always take enough snacks for the duration of the trip in an ice cream type container. When travelling home you can then leave the container there and have more room in your suitcase for souvenirs (or duty free treats)!

I always think that travelling is the best time to make allowances and take it easy. Depending on how you think he will go with food, toddler milk during your travel period may be worth considering. Check a few brands next time you’re at the supermarket and evaluate their nutritional information.

I hope some of these thoughts may suit you and have given you some more ideas. Let me know how you go. I hope you make some great memories together! I’d love to hear from other readers too, on what they did travelling through Asia which may help us.

Regards,

Donna

Disclaimer

This answer provides general information. It is based on my own experiences and research and is not intended to take the place of medical advice. Please seek advice from a qualified health care professional if necessary.

Japan with Kids

What a wonderful place to visit! Timing wise I think your kids are at great ages, with your 4 year old able to get around well, while your baby is (probably) still not quite mobile. And travelling despite your tight budget is admirable, as so often we put things off until the ‘right’ time. One of the things I like about Japan too, is that you get to experience such a different culture and only have an eightish hour flight!

Tani said: July 18th 2010 11:21 AM

Hi there

I was just wondering if you know of any blogs books or websites dedicated to travelling Japan with Kids? My husband and I are planning a 10day trip at the start of September with our four year old girl and 6 month old boy.

We are also doing so on a tight budget!

Any tips hints directions would be most appreciated!

Thanks

Tani

Donna @ Little Gulliver said: July 18th 2010 4:39 PM

Hi Tani,

What a wonderful place to visit! Timing wise I think your kids are at great ages, with your 4 year old able to get around well, while your baby is (probably) still not quite mobile. And travelling despite your tight budget is admirable, as so often we put things off until the ‘right’ time. One of the things I like about Japan too, is that you get to experience such a different culture and only have an eightish hour flight!

Here are some websites that may be worth a look;

I’m wondering whether a Japan guide book, such as those from Lonely Planet, Eyewitness guides etc might give you some food for thought (just without the focus on kids). Check your local library, they may be able to reserve some for you and give you an idea of which ones you like before buying. There are also a couple of books specifically based on Japan with kids which would be a good read. They may be a bit difficult to come by locally though.

They are;

  • Japan for Kids: The Ultimate Guide for Parents and Their Children by Diane Wiltshire & Jeanne Huey
  • Kids’ Trips in Tokyo: A Family Guide to One-Day Outings by Ivy Maeda, Kitty Kobe, Cynthia C. Ozeki & Lyn Sato

I think too, pack some disposable containers like Glad ware and some zip lock bags. If you’re staying at a hotel you may be able to grab some fruit, muffins or even toast from the breakfast buffet. This can be a great saviour on day trips and give you some options in a hunger emergency or if you come by a nice park for a play .

Tani, I hope there are some good things here that you may find useful. I’d love to hear how your trip goes and how you find your airline goes with the kids. Now I just have to get the green eyed monster off my back!

Regards,

Donna

CARES, tray tables, Qantas & Jetstar

I haven’t had any problems installing the CARES on Jetstar (I regularly fly domestic to visit family).

Sharon said: June 29th 2010 10:06 AM

Do you know if the cares harness goes under or over the tray tables on the jetstar planes (domestic flight) as I think their setup is a little different to Qantas planes

We flew Qantas with it last time and while we had to argue several times that it was safe to use as the hostesses had never seen them before we were finally fitted ok, lucky we took the letter from CASA with us!

Do you have any tips for getting the info on the booking and then not having to repeat yourself a thousand times at the airport and again on the plane

Many thanks

Donna @ Little Gulliver said: June 29th 2010 2:13 PM

Hi Sharon,

I haven’t had any problems installing the CARES on Jetstar (I regularly fly domestic to visit family). I’ve also listed the related Q&A, from the manufacturers website, at the end of this post.

That’s great that you were able to use it on Qantas. I’m sorry you had to be persistent though, that can be tiring! install_step2-150x100I have been using it for 2 years+, mainly on Qantas, Virgin Blue and Jetstar. I would say I have had no problems. When boarding I explain I have a CARES harness & I carry the CASA letter with my boarding pass. If they look bewildered I explain that it is fully CASA/FAA approved & show them the letter. I suggest that I will install it and invite them back to have a look at it then. Once they see it they have been fine (even complimentary) about it.

I would say though that the recognition with the flight crew is certainly improving. I have been told the flight crew are trained on its use, but it depends on when they last did the training etc. Also, we’ve successfully worked with Qantas to update their website, which now specifically mentions CARES. This can be seen here under Child Restraint Devices; http://www.qantas.com.au/travel/airlines/travelling-with-children-infants/global/en. Your next Qantas flight should be easier!

With relation to Jetstar, we recently had a Little Gulliver customer phone us, after some frustrating Jetstar phoninstall_step3_2-150x100e calls. She was wanting to get the CARES listed on her flight booking, as you have mentioned. So, we put it to the test and phoned ourselves (we have a Jetstar trip coming up). We explained it is CASA/FAA approved and TOLD them to add it to the booking as we WILL be using it. This may sound a bit harsh, but as it is fully approved I feel confident in doing this. So, I guess my tip is to sound confident, stress that it is fully approved, manufactured by Amsafe and that you will be using it. Please add it to the booking! Having said that, I’ve used it and never (until now) had it added to the booking. But I can see that it could make it easier.

There is a happy ending though. We canvas the airlines regularly about updating their policies and websites to get the information out there and make life easier for us all. Jetstar has been our main focus in previous months and there is some good news coming up!  Watch this space.install_step3-150x100

Finally though, I have generally been able to use CARES without flight crew barely giving it a second glance. Sometimes I think their main concern is doing their final check (before takeoff) and noting that the waist belt is done up and that our bags are stowed correctly!

I’ve waffled a bit, but I hope it helps & let us know how you go. Comments from other users most welcome.

Regards,

Donna

Here’s a copy of a Q&A on the Kids Fly Safe website. It can be located at http://www.kidsflysafe.com/faqs;

Q. Does CARES affect the operation of the tray behind the child’s seat?

A. No. Ensuring that CARES did not adversely affect the functionality of the tray was an important FAA criterion for certifying CARES. The tray is lowered only while the red webbing loop is adjusted around the seat, and then is closed and locked in place, covering up the CARES loop. CARES does not affect the functioning or use of the tray. Using the tray doesn’t affect the safety or functioning of the CARES restraint.

In some older style seats found occasionally on small planes, the tray fits into a plastic cavity with recessed sides. In these the CARES red loop, when pulled taut, could prevent the tray from closing securely. In this case, the CARES loop should be installed around the seat and OVER the stowed tray for taxiing, take off, and landing. (See FAA Advisory Circular 120-87B “Use of Child Restraints on Aircraft”, which can be found in the “In-flight Documents” section of this website http://kidsflysafe.com/instructions/in-flight-documents/)

Installing a CARES – step by step guide

The tray table behind your child’s seat is lowered while installing the CARES. After the red strap is in place the tray table can then be closed again, over the strap. Its doesn’t impede the use of the tray table at all!

Kylie said: June 28th 2010 8:37 AM

Hi

I am very interested in the CARES travel harness for my 2 yo. However it looks like the harness would effect the lowering of the tray for the passenger seated behind my daughter. Is this a possibility or has this been taken into account in the design?

Donna @ Travel Toddler said: June 28th 2010 2:42 PM

Hi Kylie,

Good question, it does look like it could effect the tray table & you’re not the first to ask! Actually, you do lower the tray table behind your child’s seat while installing, as you suggested. After the red strap is in place the tray table can then be closed again, over the strap. It actually doesn’t impede the use of the tray table at all and has been extensively tested by the manufacturer.

I’ve included a step by step installation guide below, with some photo’s. I’m hoping the photo’s make it easier to understand than my rambling!

Also, you may be interested in a previous post which shows video of how it is installed. It can be viewed here.

Step One:
Seat your child in the aeroplane seat they will occupy.
Step Two:
Lower the tray table behind your child’s seat.
Step Three:
Slide the RED LOOP of the CARES restraint over the seat back, adjust the height of the RED LOOP so it is just above your child’s shoulders and tighten it. Then close the tray table (covering the Red Loop).
Step Four:
Place the BLACK SHOULDER STRAPS over your child’s shoulders. Slide both ends of the aeroplane seat belt through the loops at the bottom.
Step Five:
Buckle the seat belt and pull it snugly across your child’s lap, as you normally would do. Then buckle the chest clip (adjust the height – so it fits comfortably over your child’s chest if necessary).

That’s it, the CARES is installed! CARES is recommended for kids in their own seat weighing between 10 – 20 kilos and up to a metre tall. It is certified for used during all phases of flight; taxiing, take off , cruising and landing.

Anything I’ve missed or any other comments are most welcome.

Regards,

Donna

Fluoride in water

Laura said: June 25th 2010 1:25 am

I live in Indonesia and buy bottled water for preparing formula. Should I be supplementing with fluroide, and from what age? My son in 8 months old and gets perhaps 33% of his nutrition from formula, 33% breast milk and 33% solids.

Thanks!

Donna @ Little Gulliver said: June 25th 2010 1:48 pm

Hello Laura,

There is certainly much debate on fluoride! Where we live in Victoria, Fluoride is supplemented in our water. For you, I suggest seeking professional medical advice. This will ensure that your child is receiving an adequate amount of fluoride, based on your own circumstances. I’ve included a link to questions on Fluoride from our local government Better Health website, however it is not specific to babies and should be seen as a general guide only.

I guess your son will be crawling around soon and keeping you very busy – enjoy!

Regards,

Donna

Link to the Victorian Government Better Health Website;

http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Dental_care_fluoride

An excerpt;

Q: I live in an area of the state which does not have fluoride added to the water supply. What do you recommend for alternative preventive care, especially for young children?

A: Fluoride is a naturally occurring element that is found in rocks, soils, water and plants….Fluoride supplements, including tablets and drops, are recommended only for those children at high risk of dental caries in a non-fluoridated area, and only under professional advice from your dental therapist, dentist or from Dental Health Services.

Disclaimer

This answer provides general information. It is not intended to take the place of medical advice. Please seek advice from a qualified health care professional.

Travelling to Australia

Rachel said:  Friday, 18 June 2010 9:02 PM

Im just looking for some information on going to australia with my 3 year old son and partner.We are looking to go for 3 months do you have any information on visas and what way it works with getting one for the child.

Donna @ Travel Toddler said: Sat 19/06/2010 8:32 PM

Hi Rachel,

The 3 month getaway you are planning sounds wonderful!

To start with, there are some general topics on ‘immigration’ and ‘about Australia’ available at the Australian Government website http://australia.gov.au/. Also, when visiting Australia there are a number of different visa options, depending on where you are travelling from. For instance, if you were travelling from the UK, either an ‘evisitor’ or ‘tourist visa’ may apply. Our Immigration Department has a ‘Visa Wizard’ which may help you to see which visa may be relevant to your family. It is located on the Department of Immigration website at http://www.immi.gov.au/visawizard/. Another great resource to help you begin planning your holiday is the official tourism website http://www.australia.com/.

If you have any specific questions let me know, otherwise I hope you’ve found this information useful. Good luck with your travel plans and I hope your trip is a memorable adventure.

Regards,

Donna

CARES vs. Car Seats

Should you take a car seat on a plane?

kate said:   May 9th, 2010 2:09 pm

we are travelling 12 hours on a plane overseas with our toddler who doesnt sleep and gets hyper. She has her own seat this time but we cannot decide whether to look into bringing her car seat or not . We are thinking of buying the wheels accessory to push her in the airport . But we cannot decide to go this route or buy a safety harness instead. Would love some feedback . I suppose we need to be sure both airlines accept car seats . thank you .

Donna @ Travel Toddler said:   May 9th, 2010 5:25 pm

Hello Kate,

CARES vs. car seats on planes: CARES is superior to a carseat when travelling with toddlers on planes* and I see it as the best alternative.

I dont like the idea of taking the seat out of the car, making sure its fitted back in correctly and then the potential of damage to the seat in transit. I like that CARES fits directly onto the aircraft seat and allows it to flex as intended, while supporting the childs upper torso. And, its light and fits in my carry-on luggage! This is why I created my business (Little Gulliver) and brought the CARES to Australia*.

Some people use a car seat believing their children will sleep better in them, as they do in a car. Others say they wont use car seats on planes again as the child has been uncomfortable. Many times the airline seat cant recline with the car seat in it, the tray table can’t lower over the childs legs, I’ve heard of angry fellow passengers as the child can kick the back of the seat in front! I guess the main problem is that once you have the car seat on board there isnt really an option to remove it if things go awry.

I’ve never had any problem with my children sleeping in a CARES, remembering that plane travel is never that pleasant for everyone anyway. We alway’s take the standard snacks, activities and soft toys from home and hope for the best. I think a good place to start is to see if your particular car seat is approved by your airlines, as you mentioned. Many makes and models are not, while Virgin Blue and Tiger Airways don’t allow car seats at all. Also, consider a travel stroller as an option if you do want wheels at the airport. There are some great travel strollers around (we use a Quicksmart) and Ive heard of people buying cheap umbrella strollers to use (strollers on planes though starts a whole new conversation)!

Thank you for your questions and feedback, I hope my comments help.

Happy Mothers Day to all!

Donna