Travel with Kids – Page 2 – Little Gulliver

Best Toddler Bed for Travel

Julie-Anne said: March 2 2012 10:03 AM

Good morning,
I hope this email finds you well. I have a very tall 2 and half year boy and we often try and get away for weekends.I have searched everywhere and I am desperately need some advice on a bed that is off the ground but still has sides to stop them rolling off that I can buy in Australia or get shipped here. Can you please help direct me. Thank you

Donna @ Travel Toddler said: March 6 2011 11:03 AM

Hi Julie-Anne,

thank you for your email.

I’ve been thinking about your query and after some investigation cannot think of a bed which comes with the features you’ve mentioned ie – some are off the ground but have no bed rails and others have bed rails but are not off the ground. I guess this is what you have also found! At Little Gulliver, we’ve put together a range of the best travel bed options for different age groups, so you may like to take a look at our Resting category.

Here’s a couple of our options which may suit you;

Off the ground Have a look at our Regalo Child Bed. It doesn’t have sides but does sort of ‘hug’ the child a little. It folds up to be quite compact and is 18cm off the ground. The video I’ve included shows how easy it is to set up. (It was popular over Christmas, when so many of our customers were heading off camping and caravanning. We also had an excited Nana grab one for the grand-kids coming to visit)! See my extra info below, talking about bed rails for travel, which may be of interest also.

Sides to stop them rolling off The other thing to consider is the Ready Bed.

The 2+ (Winnie the Pooh) version has side bolsters to prevent the child from rolling out and also has a built-in headboard.

At 2 1/2 and tall, your son may be around a metre tall? So, size wise, this may be a good fit – the bed size is approx: 135cms L x 71cms W x 32cms H.

For other info I’ll include a post I did previously, in case you haven’t seen it; Bed Rails for Travel. It is looking at various options of bed rails which may be easy to use on the road. Don’t forget to scroll down for the comments on the post. I wonder whether the Magic Bumpers or Dream Tubes may be helpful if teamed with a Regalo?

I hope this information helps and please let me know what you decide. Travel beds and bedding is something we all wonder about, so we love to hear what works for different families!

Kind regards,

Donna

New Zealand to Ireland with 2 children

Jude said: December 6 2011 9:19 AM

Hi,

I just purchased a Cares harness for long haul flight from New Zealand to Ireland with 2 children on my own. I wanted to avoid lugging the bulky carseat around airports esp as I haven’t got the spare hands! Air NZ specify the cares harness but unsure of Aer lingus, where can I get a letter for crew if I come across any problems?

Many thanks.

Ben @ Travel Toddler said: December 6 2011 11:07 AM

Hello Jude,

Thanks for your CARES query and your order, the parcel will be shipped to you today.

The best approach with Aer Lingus seems to be the approach followed by a customer recently on the USA CARES facebook page. Back in Sept 2011 they said they emailed Aer Lingus saying they were using the CARES and received the following email:

New Aer Lingus statement:

AMSAFE CARES harnesses are permitted on board, but not as the primary restraint. The harness must be used in conjunction with the aircraft seat belt.

Harnesses by other manufacturers such as CRELLING require special Irish Aviation Authority authorisation. This authorisation requires some extra time to arrange, therefore passengers who require such a harness should contact Aer Lingus special assistance; specialassistance@aerlingus.com as soon as possible in advance of the flight. The make and model of the harness should be included along with details of any other particular requirements.

The CARES customer then received a further Aer Lingus email:

And my final follow up-Received an email this morning from aer lingus stating CARES is permitted and that cabin crew have now been made aware and given instruction on how to use it. This is from the Aer Lingus head office in Dublin.

It’s also worth noting that Aer Lingus are not very clear with their car seat approval process either and seem to leave it at the discretion of the staff on the day. This is from their website:

Please be advised that with the number and variety of infant car seats available on the market it is not possible for us to guarantee in advance that any particular seat is suitable for use. In the interests of safety, Aer Lingus reserves the right to refuse permission for the use of certain types of car seats on the aircraft or during take off and landing. In these circumstances the infant must be carried on the adult’s lap (under 2 years) or in a seat using the standard lap belt (2 years and over). Safety is always our first consideration.

We’d recommend taking a copy of our airline list (attached) that shows what our local airlines say on their website about the approved use of CARES. Also, try and have it noted on your booking that you intend to use the CARES harness. Also, show any curious airline staff the tag on the CARES unit that states FAA approval and “Approved for Aircraft Use”.

Hope this helps, have a great trip.

Kind regards

Ben

Readers view – family meals in Europe

We travelled through Europe for 5 weeks

staying in apartments and self-catering.
we tried to learn to say ‘egg and nut allergy’ in each of the languages with varying success.
Google translate is handy to print out allergies and add pictures.
we looked up supermarkets close to each of the apartments on Google maps before we left, which helped with ease of supplies when we arrived.
As far as choosing where to eat out when we did, it was a combination of exploring the local neighbourhood and using Lonely Planet suggestions – sometimes good, sometimes terrible – what is a great venue for a 20 something y.o. backpacker is not necessarily such a great spot for a family meal! Lol.

Bhutan with a 2 year old

Amanda said: September 5 2011 11:41 AM

Hi
We would like to travel to Bhutan for 10 days in 2012 with a 2 year old – are you able to recommend any tour companies for us to do an individual/personal tour with?

Thank you
Amanda

Donna @ Little Gulliver said: September 8 2011 2:06 PM

Hi Amanda,

our family would also love to go there! My husband recently saw a documentary on Bhutan and has been talking about it ever since (in fact he’s talking about it right now)!

I cannot personally recommend any tour companies, but have put a shout out on our Facebook page. I’ll let you know if any of our readers have any ideas. I’ve listed a few suggestions which you may like to look at, all of them profess to have a love for the country and a unique perspective to share;

http://www.bhutan.com.au/

http://www.mysecretbhutan.com.au/

I wondered if it may also be worthwhile contacting the Australian – Bhutan Friendship Association? They may be able to recommend someone or provide answers to any questions you might have during your planning. The website has some good information too, under “Bhutan facts”

Then there’s the Bhutan consulate in Sydney;

Consulate of Bhutan in Sydney, Australia

78 Louisa Road
Birchgrove
New South Wales 2041
Australia
Phone:
+61-2-9810-3909
Fax:
+61-2-9555-1254
Email:
bhutan@harrisfarm.com.au

A little about Bhutan

For those of us needing a refresher, here’s some general information about Bhutan – the last Shangri-La (source);

“Bhutan is one of the most isolated and least developed nations in the world. Kingdom of Bhutan is known for its culture, architecture and archery, but in many ways, it has remained a mystery until half a century ago.
The serene country, is cradled between its neighbours China to the north and India to the south. Its lands include subtropical savannah’s to forests, to the Himalayas guarding the country’s eastern border.

Its isolation, domestic policies and decision to limit tourism have helped to protect its culture and its natural beauty. These are among the reasons it is referred to as the Last Shangri-la and the crown jewel of the Himalayas.

On the other hand, the Bhutanese call their country Druk Yul, Land of the Thunder Dragon, because of the violent snow storms.”

Thanks for your question, it seems like a magical place. I would love to hear more about how your trip goes!

Regards,

Donna

Further information

http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g293844-i10038-k2245316-l13911101-Travelling_with_a_toddler-Bhutan.html

http://www.lonelyplanet.com/thorntree/thread.jspa?threadID=483284

http://www.wwfblogs.org/travel/2010/10/11/10-interesting-facts-about-bhutan/

What are your tips for great family meals while on holiday?

In July we asked our readers “what are your tips for great family meals while on holiday”? (The two winners won an Annabel Karmel recipe book). We had some great responses and I’ve been happy to summarise them into this article.

Hotel meals

*The hotel buffet breakfast scored a lot of points with our readers. Make sure everyone in the family enjoys a heallthy, filling breakfast. Then, grab a couple of bread rolls and a piece of fruit on the way out – toddlers lunch done! (Remember to take some resealable sandwich bags with you).

* It sounds obvious, but always ask for a kids menu. Some restaurants have them, but only on request. If there are no kids meals, ask if simple modifications can be made to adult dishes. “A half serve of pasta or a cheese and tomato
sandwich are generally easy for a kitchen to manage”.

* “Another great option which normally appears on an adult menu (but not on the kiddie menu) is soup. Again, ask for a half serve. It is a great way to get veggies into your kids and a makes a refreshing change from the breaded and fried usual suspects on kids menus.”

* “Many kids meals come served with chips. Ask if these can be replaced with a salad or veggies (if your kids will eat salad or veg)”.

* “As far as choosing where to eat out when we did, it was a combination of exploring the local neighbourhood and using Lonely Planet suggestions – sometimes good, sometimes terrible – what is a great venue for a 20 something y.o. backpacker is not necessarily such a great spot for a family meal!”

Bringing some easy food on the road

* “we brought a tube of vegemite with us from home”.

* “For our toddler we brought soft-packaged baked beans, spaghetti, and other meals from home – the restaurants were happy to provide her with a bowl etc”.

* Disposable bibs – so handy! “and make sure they’re the Heinz ones, the cheaper brands don’t cut it, as we discovered on a previous trip”.

* “Both boys are keen on smoothies (fruit / yoghurt / milk) so we are actually travelling with a stick blender so we can make them anywhere. Come the end of a day where they haven’t eaten much or are too tired for a substantial meal we know we can always at least give them that”.

* “Take snacks that travel well and are healthy. Sultanas and other dried fruits & nuts, well choosen museli bars and fruit (especially mandarins, apples and snack packs) are great to keep tummys full between meals”.

Eating outdoors

* “Find a local park with BBQ facilities. Pick up some sausages, buns and sauce at the supermarket and take the family for a picnic on holidays”!

* “There is nothing better than cooking some lamb, chicken kebabs on the bbq and having yiros wraps – lots of salad, hommus, tabouli!! Kids and adults both love it – we did this for our son’s first birthday and it was easy to prepare and cook, healthy and went down as a huge hit for all ages”!!!

* “When traveling with our 5 kids, takeaways can be expensive and not a healthy option ! We try to “cook out” as much as possible. We wrap our potatoes and corn in foil and bake in the coals, We take tins of vegies for the pot and we always casserole or grill. We know we are all getting wonderful nutrition even though we are away from our home comforts. No terrible takeaway meals that leave us sluggish and feeling ill. All healthy food that fills us with GOOD energy and vitality”.

* “When on holiday, there is something special about having fish and chips down on the beach – straight from it all being wrapped up in the paper”!!

Naps

We all wanted to ensure our toddlers didn’t miss out on their day sleep time. Some suggested heading back to the hotel was worthwhile, as everyone in the family was generally ready for a break. Others had a travel stroller with them and their little ones were able to have an hour or so nap while out and about.

Food allergies

* “We travelled to Europe 9 months ago for 5 weeks, staying in apartments and self-catering. We tried to learn to say ‘egg and nut allergy’ in each of the languages and used Google translate to print it out and added pictures.”

Flying

* “Pre-order children’s meals on flights. Not only are they often more palatable for kids, they arrive before other meals”.

Serviced apartments

Readers suggest serviced apartments as a “great alternative” to a hotel. There is often more space and can be cheaper than a hotel room. Being able to prepare your own meals can be a bonus – especically when cereal is such an easy breakfast “cereal and milk couldn’t be easier“. As Kylie suggests, “often the kids are up early and ready for breakfast – before the local cafes may be open. You can then also prepare sandwich’s for lunch before you head out”. Then there’s no lines for lunch, you can eat whenever or whereever you want and its generally healthier and cheaper!

* “We looked up supermarkets close to each of the apartments on Google maps before we left, which helped with ease of supplies when we arrived”.

* “Find somewhere to stay where you have access to a full sized kitchen. Check out what cooking tools you have available to use and then source local produce. Don’t forget to take the kids along and try and get them excited about the fresh food and helping with dinner. Nothing like a fresh dinner made from local produce”.

* “When on the road, on thing we have done is freeze up some popular / familiar meals (usually meatballs, pasta sauce or risotto) when we are staying somewhere and then bringing it in a mini freezer bag to the next location on our trip. Then we have a few fast / handy meals available for times on our trip when we know we will be busier”.

Stay in routine

* “I have a 3 and a half year old and a 2 year old. My tips are to keep things as predictable as possible. Get into meal routines quickly and try to give them at least some food they are familar with. Where possible get your villa to buy things in ahead that you know the kids will like and ensure you have lots of interesting, low sugar snacks for the journey!”

* “We’ve been trying to keep the food familiar when we can as well as mixing in new things they haven’t tried before”.

* “We’re currently on a nine week family holiday in Europe with our two children (3.5 years and 22 months). We are staying with family and friends as well as in self contained accommodation. We are moving around around every week to a week and a half and have plenty of quiet days for down time for our children. I think this would be my best advice when it comes to great family meals whilst on holiday as when you move around faster than this it becomes very difficult to preserve the ideal of a family meal”.

And finally…

“relax and enjoy. If your kids aren’t eating as well or as healthily as you would like them to, don’t fret. Know that they will get into a better eating pattern when they get home”.

Thanks again to everyone who contributed. We love all your suggestions and are sure they will be helpful for all our readers.

Create some wonderful family memories, be flexible, take lots of photos and enjoy your holiday!

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

Tips for a great family holiday

Taking the whole family on holiday can be an expensive exercise, but knowing the tricks to finding cheap hotel deals can make a family holiday much more affordable. Check out discount voucher deals and last minute accommodation deals on the internet. If you book your accommodation less than 14 days before you depart you’ll find some amazing savings.

beach 2 plus 1 Another way to save on accommodation for your family holiday is to travel in the off-season at your destination. Resorts in Bali and Thailand, for instance, can be spectacularly cheaper outside of peak tourist seasons. You’ll also find great deals on flights and package holidays outside of peak seasons and in some places, even tours and shopping will be cheaper.

If you have small children look out for good deals on self-catering apartments, holiday rentals and resorts with kid-friendly activities. These keep the little ones amused, while you have some adult time to kick back and relax!

Choose a destination that all the family can enjoy, with activities suited to your children’s age group. Small children may be happy to just play in the sand on the beach and maybe visit a zoo or aquarium, while older children may want to meet other children their own age and have plenty of places to see and things to do.

If eating out is expensive in your destination, self-catering accommodation is a great option. This can save money, as you can prepare most of your own meals and can then dine out occasionally as a special treat.

Also, look out for good deals on tours and family passes. On Queensland’s Gold Coast, for instance, there are special deals on passes to all the famous theme parks.

With careful planning and finding the best cheap Brisbane hotels, an affordable, fun holiday for all the family is waiting for you!

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.

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

A day in Hong Kong with kids

Hong Kong is one of the most exciting family holiday destinations in Asia with plenty of fun things to do that will keep the kids entertained, along with plenty of cheap holiday accommodation to be found. Hong Kong is also a popular stopover destination so here is a list of some of the most popular attractions that can easily be done in a day:

Hong Kong Disneyland:

This much loved theme park will be a winner with family members of all ages. Visit all four themed lands

within the park including Main Street USA, Fantasyland, Adventureland and Tomorrowland. The little ones will love the singing and dancing characters of the Disney on Parade and the older kids in the family will be thrilled by Space Mountain and the nightly fireworks display.

Ocean Park:

A local favourite, Ocean Park is one of the largest aquariums and marine parks in South-East Asia. Hop aboard the Ocean Express for an aquatic journey like no other, or feel the thrill of nature up close when you hug a dolphin on the Dolphin Encounter Program. Learn about amazing Asian animals and enjoy an unforgettable underwater experience with attractions such as Atoll Reef, Pacific Pier and Sea Jelly Spectacular.

Victoria Harbour:

There’s heaps to see and do here- start by strolling down the avenue of stars where you will see handprints of famous Asian movie stars such as Jackie Chan and Jett Li, next hop aboard the Star Ferry for a trip between the Hong Kong main island and Kowloon to be treated to an amazing view of the harbour, the junks, hydrofoils, sampans and barges.

By night be sure to catch the famous ‘Symphony of Lights’ a light and laser spectacular featuring more than forty of Hong Kong’s skyscrapers in a visual extravaganza.

Fun Food

Take the family to one of the many Dum Sum restaurants in Hong Kong, they are fun, family orientated places to eat that are busy, noisy and open all hours.