How to Choose a Toddler Travel Bed

Though it is fairly simple to pick out a crib for your infant when they are that size, or perhaps not even born yet, it can be a lot harder to pick out a toddler bed when your infant graduates to this stage. You can’t apply the same tactics and rationale for choosing a toddler bed as you did with a crib-as this stage requires something very different. Whereas a crib needs to be sturdy and hard to get out of-and most probably, aesthetically pleasing-a toddler bed has different needs. In this article we address the most important specifications of a toddler travel bed to help you buy one that is safe and convenient for you and your toddler.

Toddler Travel Bed Assembly

If you were trying to buy a toddler bed that was just for your home, and certain not to be moved for a time-until your toddler graduated into the next stage of his/her development; than you would not need to worry about how much assembly was necessary. If, however, you will be buying a toddler travel bed, you need to make sure-for your own convenience and sanity-that it is easy to assemble and disassemble when traveling to and then bunking down for the night. As we all know, a parent who is watching a toddler doesn’t have much time before they are into something else, and this is why having a toddler travel bed that is easy to assemble is key.

Toddler Travel Bed Sturdiness

Another necessary component to a good toddler travel bed is sturdiness. Though this can often be overlooked when looking for a bed that can be transportable, it is necessary to spend more money so that your bed is not just transportable, but also, sturdy. The last thing you want is your toddler spilling out of the bed in the middle of the night and getting into something unsafe. The toddler travel bed you select should contain some built in safeguards to keep your child safely snug throughout the night.

Toddler Travel Bed Size & Depth

Another good thing to look for-though this should be secondary to the last two-is a toddler travel bed that is compact and hopefully, somewhat lightweight. If you aren’t likely to travel that much while your child is a toddler; then perhaps, it does not matter; but if you will be staying over at their grandparents’ or your friend’s houses often; it is worthwhile to spend a bit more and get a bed that is large enough for your toddler, but still compact enough to move and transport in the car.

Another key component to a travel bed for your toddler that will be safe and transportable is the depth. Just like a crib, you need to be able to have a bed that is deep enough in so that the toddler cannot get out without your help.

Toddler Travel Bed Comfort

Lastly, it is very important that your toddler be comfortable while away. It is hard enough on a toddler sleeping in a new place-as we all know-without the bed they are sleeping on feeling like cardboard. This is why you should look for a toddler travel bed that has a well rated mattress to go in it. It doesn’t have to be that thick-just thick enough to provide some cushion on a platform or floor.

	Bedtime Originals Baby Zoo 4-Piece Baby Crib Bedding Set - Chocolate List Price: $79.99 Sale Price: $66.99
	Baby Zoo 4 Piece Crib Bedding Set from Bedtime Originals by Lambs and Ivy. This nursery set includes a quilted comforter that can also double as a wall hanging, 4-sided crib bumper, fitted crib sheet and dust ruffle...

	Lambs and Ivy Enchanted Forest 6 Pc Baby Crib Bedding Set, Green List Price: $179.99 Sale Price: $140.51
	The Enchanted Forest 6 Piece Baby Crib Bedding Set includes: quilt, bumper, dust ruffle, fitted sheet, window valance and diaper stacker. The quilt measures 35 x 43.5. The bumper is 10 high with single ties in each corner, and 5 sets of double ties along the top and bottom...

	SoHo Butterfly Meadows Crib Nursery Bedding Set 10 pcs **Reversible Into Morden Pink & Brown Polka Dot Designs !** List Price: $189.95 Sale Price: $75.99
	This Set Fits all Toddler Beds and Cribs (Single or Convertible) (USA, UK, AU, Etc..) The Set includes following 10 pieces: * Hand Embroidery Crib Quilt * Hand Embroidery Crib Bumper * Fitted Sheet * Crib Skirt (Dust Ruffle) * 2 pieces of Window Valances * Diaper Stacker * Toy Bag * Baby Pillow * Baby Bib

	Soho Sage & Brown Suede 10 pcs Baby Crib Bedding Set List Price: $189.95 Sale Price: $54.44
	This Soho Sage and Brown baby bedding set features a complementary color palette of baby brown and sage green. The fresh colors and fun patterns make this perfect for any baby room. The adorable accented rich micro suede give this set a wonderful texture...

	Soho Pink & Brown French Toile 10 Pcs Baby Crib Bedding Set List Price: $189.95 Sale Price: $54.99
	This elegant Vintage Pink and Brown French Toile 10 pieces bedding set is made with 100% Cotton Cream Chenille, Ultra soft Textured Sherpa Gingham, and 100% Cotton Vintage French Pink and Brown Toile Fabric...

	NoJo Jungle Tales 6 Piece Crib Set List Price: $184.99 Sale Price: $139.95
	This 6-piece set includes a Quilt, Bumper, Fitted Crib Sheet, Dust Ruffle, Valance and Diaper Stacker. All items are machine washable for easy care. Quilt: White with colorful jungle animal appliquis...

SoHo A to Z Alphabet Baby Infant Crib Nursery Bedding Set 10 Pieces ** Reversible Into 2 Designs ! ** List Price: $129.99 Sale Price: $49.99

This Set Fits all Toddler Beds and Cribs (Single or Convertible) (USA, UK, AU, Etc..) The Set includes following 10 pieces: * Hand Embroidery Crib Quilt and it is Reversible into Classic Sage and sky blue Argyle Print comforter * Hand Embroidery Crib Bumper and it can also Reversible into Classic Sage and sky blue Argyle Print bumper all 4 sided * Fitted Sheet * Crib Skirt (Dust Ruffle) * 2 pieces of Window Valances * Diaper Stacker * Toy Bag * Baby Pillow * Baby Bib

	SoHo Designs Deep Sea Aquarium Baby Crib Nursery Bedding Set, 10 Piece List Price: $158.86 Sale Price: $59.99
	This Set Fits all Toddler Beds and Cribs (Single or Convertible) (USA, UK, AU, Etc..) The Set includes following 10 pieces: * Hand Embroidery Crib Quilt * Hand Embroidery Crib Bumper * Fitted Sheet * Crib Skirt (Dust Ruffle) * 2 pieces of Window Valances * Diaper Stacker * Toy Bag * Baby Pillow * Baby Bib

	GEENNY Designs Brown Blue Star & Moon 13-PCS CRIB BEDDING SET Sale Price: $89.99
	This listing is for a 13 pcs beautiful GEENNY brand new Crib set with all the bundle you will need. This set is made to fit all standard cribs and toddler beds. The whole set comes with 10-pcs set plus 3 New Wall Art Decor Hangings, which comes out as this total 13-pcs bundle...

	Boutique Beautiful Black White Flower & Dot 13PCS CRIB BEDDING SET List Price: $259.99 Sale Price: $89.99
	Product Description This listing is for a 13 pcs beautiful GEENNY brand new Crib set with all the bundle you will need. This set is made to fit all standard cribs and toddler beds. The whole set comes with 10-pcs set plus 3 New Wall Art Decor Hangings, which comes out as this total 13-pcs bundle...

At one time or another, you will be leaving your home with your new bundle of joy. It's important to gather some good information about traveling with your baby, whether you will be flying or traveling by car. Having a good idea of what to expect is always useful.

First, let's look at some tips for flying with your baby. The majority of airlines let the baby travel without purchasing a ticket for him or her if you will be holding baby on your lap, but if you get a seat booked for your baby you can put him in an infant car seat. Remember your baby is accustomed to the car seat and that it is something familiar and reassuring for him. He is safe in the car seat as well. You can take your lightweight stroller along and check it at the gate and then when the flight is over it will be there to use as you make your way through a busy airport.

If you are bottle-feeding, have a bottle ready for him. If you are nursing, let him nurse during take-off and landing to help alleviate pressure in the ears. A pacifier can also be helpful to help alleviate ear pressure. Avoid flying if your baby has an ear infection or nasal congestion.

If you are going on a road trip with your baby, remember you'll need to stop more often. If your baby is old enough to be exploring part of the day, then staying in a car seat for endless hours may be much too restrictive for him. He will need to stop and get out of the car and walk around, and of course to have his diaper changed as well. Bring some toys for him to play with and the more bells and whistles each toy has the longer it will keep his interest. This is a good time for a new toy to help distract from long periods of time in the car. You'll need to take extra care not to let your baby get dehydrated on the trip. Seeing new things will cause him to be less interested in food. He is more likely to want to drink something so make it nutritious. Babies are sticklers for routine, though while traveling, this will be harder to do. Keep as much of his routine going as possible. Stay as close to his normal bedtime as possible and try to keep it like usual by reading, singing or other ritual you have to help him to sleep.

When your baby sleeps at a hotel with you, either bring a portable bed or use a hotel crib. You are better off bringing your own because you'll know that it is safe, whereas, hotel cribs can be outdated or unfamiliar and frustrating to you, or they may use hotel linens which are larger than the crib requires. You can call the hotel ahead of time to see if their baby crib meets safety standards and your expectations.

Bring a first aid kit and bring a emergency list that has any medications the baby takes, doctor's phone number, and information about your child's health and other contact numbers. Bring a hat to keep the sun off of your baby's head and a warm hat if the weather is cold. You can get sunshades for your back seat windows to keep the sun out of your baby's eyes while traveling in the car. With these precautions in place and any other needs you can think of provided for your baby can enjoy the trip.

	Dream On Me Portable Crib Mattress, White List Price: $24.99 Sale Price: $23.95
	24 Features: -3'' portable mattress. -Softly cradles your baby for comfort. -The mattress creates a cloudlike environment for your baby to soundly sleep on. -Construct with quality materials and workmanship...

	Dream On Me Extra Firm Portable Crib Mattress, White List Price: $28.99 Sale Price: $26.95
	24x Features: -3'' firm portable mattress. -Provide your baby with a comfortable and restful sleep. -Construct with quality materials and workmanship. -Easily wipes clean with warm water and mild soap...

	Dream On Me 2-in-1 Folding Porable Crib - Cherry List Price: $164.99 Sale Price: $89.99
	Item is in stock and ready to ship.

	American Baby Company Portable Crib Sheet 100% Cotton Percale - Blue Dots List Price: $12.99 Sale Price: $12.99

	Dream On Me Folding 2-in1 Portable Crib - Natural List Price: $129.99 Sale Price: $89.99
	The Dream On Me, 2 In 1 Portable Folding Crib, is JPMA Certified and meets ASTM standards. This cribs lightweight construction assembles and folds easily for compact storage and/or travel. The 2 position mattress converts from crib to play pen with one hand...

	Breathablebaby Breathable Bumper for Portable and Cradle Cribs, Pink List Price: $19.99 Sale Price: $19.99
	The Award-Winning Breathable Baby Breathable Bumper reduces the risk of suffocation, entanglement and climbing. With the increased awareness of crib safety, the Breathable Bumper is an exclusive fabric with A...

	Colgate Mattress Portable Mini Crib Mattress, White List Price: $42.95 Sale Price: $42.95
	PC324-021F Features: -Portable crib / mini crib mattress. -Extra durable, day-care tough, double laminated reinforced vinyl. -Fits standard size portable cribs and mini cribs. -Easy clean with damp cloth and mild soap...

	Colgate Mattress Eco-Friendly Portable Mini Crib Mattress, Ecru List Price: $64.95 Sale Price: $64.95
	EC324F Features: -Portable crib / mini crib mattress. -Fits standard size portable cribs and mini cribs. -Damask cloth cover with waterproof backing puts cloth closest to baby's skin instead of vinyl or polyethylene plastic...

	BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light , Blue List Price: $279.95 Sale Price: $218.95
	Traveling overnight with little ones has never been more pleasant, thanks to the convenient, efficient BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light (Blue). Lightweight and portable, the crib is the ideal solution for making your baby feel comfortable and safe when sleeping away from home...

	Carters Easy Fit Jersey Portable Crib Fitted Sheet, Ecru List Price: $9.99 Sale Price: $9.99
	Carter's easy-fit sheets snugly-hug a mattress without a fight, wash after wash. 100% cotton jersey with reinforced corners. Fits standard portacrib mattress 24" x 38" (61cm x 96.5cm).

If you asked a parent what's the one piece of baby apparatus they'd hate to do without, it would most probably be their baby play yards. Often known a playards or baby playpens, the overwhelming majority of mums & dads own one and love the freedom and peace it brings them.
Portable playards became extraordinarily well-liked in the previous couple of years, especially with families who do a lot of travelling, visiting kin or friends. Although the transportable varieties are meant for brief use, they have proved themselves to be an indispensible piece of equipment for mom because they are so simply carried, often have some wheels and can be so easily folded into an incredibly small size.
Baby play yards often have a standard basic list of features, but with each type then having its own specific set of add-ons. They are usually found to be round or rectangular in outline, with a floor and translucent mesh sides. The cartable types have higher and lower rails that undo permitting all of it to be collapsed into a handy size for simple storage and transportation. This of course makes them perfect for that weekend away at a mate's or relative's house.
When you are deciding on a baby play yard or playpen there are plenty of things to consider. For starters, exactly where will you mostly be using the playard? Will it be often at home or when travelling? Will you only be employing it inside or would you need the power to roll it outside? Purchase a play yard with the features you actually need and will truly employ. You could like to think about the following gizmos and features to be certain of purchasing the play yard that closely meets your needs.

Portability : Will you need a play yard that can be folded for simple travelling or do you favor a more roomy one that is meant to stay in one place. You could like one with wheels or rollers to make it simpler to move around the home.
If you're choosing a smaller playpen you may prefer one of the makes that come with a removable bassinet included. A bassinet is a snug bed for the youngster which is placed within the playpen. It is a beautifully secure spot for baby to {doze. Bassinets are sometimes used for little ones below six months old.
You may like the thought of having a changing station. This is an additional option found on some designs of playards. This changing station locates on top of the playpen for use when baby desires his diaper changing and is easily removed when not in use.
If you plan on letting baby breathe in clean air by placing her play yard outside often, you must look into purchasing one of the models that come with a parasol cover that will offer shade and sunshine protection for your tiny treasure.
Please don't make the error of believing it's ok to leave the child in her baby play yard while you go off leaving her abandoned. You do still have to be near in case they get into any difficulties. Make sure the mesh side panels are made from material with holes no larger than inch to stop baby getting caught up. If purchasing an older style wood playpen with slatted wooden sides, make certain that the slats are not any more than 2 ½ inches apart.

.

	American Baby Company Waterproof Fitted Quilted Bassinet Mattress Pad List Price: $12.99 Sale Price: $12.49
	Fitted Bassinet (15"x33") Waterproof Quilted Mattress Pads. Top: 100% Cotton Onion Quilt, Middle Layer: Soft Polyester Filler, Back: 100% Waterproof Vinyl

The First Years Carry Me Near 5 In 1 Bassinet, Ivory List Price: $149.99 Sale Price: $120.28

The Carry Me Near in Sleep System is a portable sleeper bassinet bedside sleeper play seat and changing table all in one convenient product The three sleep modes allow you to keep your sleeping baby close to you wherever you go Thanks to the ergonomically designed handle you can confidently carry your sleeping baby from room to room in the portable sleeper The handles are battery operated It produces gentle vibrations five peaceful audio selections and a nightlight

	Badger Basket Natural Moses Basket with Hood, Sage Gingham Bedding List Price: $76.00 Sale Price: $29.74
	Perfect for when you're at home or visiting friends, this basket gives your infant a comfy cradle for sleeping. And when Baby outgrows the Moses Basket, use it to store stuffed animals or linens. It can even be used as a bed for dolls or small pets!A charming hood shades your baby, and is removable when not in use...

	Sage Gingham Bedding Liner Only for a Bassinet (Bassinet NOT Included!) Sale Price: $29.97
	Bassinet is sold separately! Bedding is also available in pink, blue, or white with sage, pink and blue gingham ribbons.

	Elegance Round Bassinet Extra Sheets - 2 pk - Ecru List Price: $19.99 Sale Price: $19.95
	Includes a set of two sheets for the Badger Basket Elegance Round Baby Bassinet. Features: Poly/cotton blend Machine wash and tumble dry; warm iron if needed Fits ROUND mattress pads of approximately 29...

	Badger Basket Company Tranquility Baby Bassinet Cherry Frame with Pink Dots Bedding List Price: $199.99 Sale Price: $126.95
	Badger Basket Company Tranquility Bassinet is lightweight and simple, yet generously sized inside and out. The suspended bassinet responds to baby's movements to reassure and comfort your little one during sleep...

	Jumbo Bassinet: Three-Tier Eyelet Bassinet Bedding Set Sale Price: $45.99
	This graceful, long skirt is crafted of pretty white eyelet. Ensemble is completed with a matching hood cover and a sheet. Sweet pink and blue bows add a finishing touch. It fully lines the interior of the bassinet with floor-length, three-tier layered skirt attached...

	American Baby Company Waterproof Bassinet Sheeting Pad List Price: $7.99 Sale Price: $7.99

	Argington Organic Bam Bassinet Bumper, White List Price: $38.50 Sale Price: $38.50
	As an accessory, Argington offers a bumper especially made to fit our bassinet. The solid white quilted bumper is made of soft organic unbleached cotton and has ties to secure bumper to bassinet. Machine washable...

	The First Years Airflow Sleep Positioner List Price: $10.99 Sale Price: $10.00
	Designed for proper sleep position and greater air circulation for your baby. It helps keep sleeping infants on their backs as recommended, to help reduce the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome)...

If you asked a parent what's the one piece of baby equipment they would hate to do without, it would most likely be their baby play yards. Often referred to as a playards or baby playpens, the vast majority of carers own one and love the liberty and peace it brings them.
Portable playards have become very popular in the last few years, especially with families who do a lot of travelling, visiting relatives or buddies. Though the transportable varieties are meant for brief use, they have proved themselves to be an essential piece of gear for mum because they are so easily transported, regularly have wheels and can be so easily folded into an incredibly tiny size.
Baby play yards often share a typical basic set of features, but with every type then having its own different set of extras. They are often made round or rectangular in shape, with a base and transparent netting sides. The cartable versions have upper and lower rails that undo allowing the entire thing to be collapsed into a handy size for simple storage and transport. This naturally makes them excellent for that weekend away at a buddy's or relative's house.
When you are deciding on a baby play yard or playpen there are tons of things to think about. For a start, where will you mostly be using the playard? Will it be often at home or while travelling? Will you simply be using it indoors or would you need the power to wheel it into the garden? Purchase a play yard with the features you really need and will really use. You could like to think about the following factors and features to be certain of purchasing one that most closely meets your needs.

Portability : Will you be best with a play yard that may be folded for simple travel or would you like a more spacious type that is meant to stay in one location. You could like one with rollers to make it simpler to move round the house.
If you're choosing a small playpen you may prefer one of the brands that come with a removable bassinet included. A bassinet is a cosy bed for the baby which is placed within the playpen. It's a wonderful secure spot for baby to {snooze. Bassinets are sometimes used for babies below six months of age.
You might prefer the sound of having a changing station. This is an added option found on some brands of baby play yards. The changing station fits on top of the playpen to be used when baby wants his diaper changed and is simply removed when not in use.
If you plan on letting baby enjoy clean air by moving her play yard outside often, you must think about getting one of the few that come with a parasol cover that will provide shade and sun protection for your tiny cherub.
Please don't commit the mistake of believing it's permissible to leave your child in her baby play yard while you go off leaving her abandoned. You still have to be nearby in case they have any difficulties. Ensure the mesh side panels are made of fabric with holes no larger than in. to stop baby getting caught up. If purchasing an older type wooden playpen with slatted wooden sides, make certain the slats are not any more than two inches apart.

.

	American Baby Company Waterproof Fitted Quilted Bassinet Mattress Pad List Price: $12.99 Sale Price: $12.49
	Fitted Bassinet (15"x33") Waterproof Quilted Mattress Pads. Top: 100% Cotton Onion Quilt, Middle Layer: Soft Polyester Filler, Back: 100% Waterproof Vinyl

The First Years Carry Me Near 5 In 1 Bassinet, Ivory List Price: $149.99 Sale Price: $120.28

The Carry Me Near in Sleep System is a portable sleeper bassinet bedside sleeper play seat and changing table all in one convenient product The three sleep modes allow you to keep your sleeping baby close to you wherever you go Thanks to the ergonomically designed handle you can confidently carry your sleeping baby from room to room in the portable sleeper The handles are battery operated It produces gentle vibrations five peaceful audio selections and a nightlight

	Badger Basket Natural Moses Basket with Hood, Sage Gingham Bedding List Price: $76.00 Sale Price: $29.74
	Perfect for when you're at home or visiting friends, this basket gives your infant a comfy cradle for sleeping. And when Baby outgrows the Moses Basket, use it to store stuffed animals or linens. It can even be used as a bed for dolls or small pets!A charming hood shades your baby, and is removable when not in use...

	Sage Gingham Bedding Liner Only for a Bassinet (Bassinet NOT Included!) Sale Price: $29.97
	Bassinet is sold separately! Bedding is also available in pink, blue, or white with sage, pink and blue gingham ribbons.

	Elegance Round Bassinet Extra Sheets - 2 pk - Ecru List Price: $19.99 Sale Price: $19.95
	Includes a set of two sheets for the Badger Basket Elegance Round Baby Bassinet. Features: Poly/cotton blend Machine wash and tumble dry; warm iron if needed Fits ROUND mattress pads of approximately 29...

	Badger Basket Company Tranquility Baby Bassinet Cherry Frame with Pink Dots Bedding List Price: $199.99 Sale Price: $126.95
	Badger Basket Company Tranquility Bassinet is lightweight and simple, yet generously sized inside and out. The suspended bassinet responds to baby's movements to reassure and comfort your little one during sleep...

	Jumbo Bassinet: Three-Tier Eyelet Bassinet Bedding Set Sale Price: $45.99
	This graceful, long skirt is crafted of pretty white eyelet. Ensemble is completed with a matching hood cover and a sheet. Sweet pink and blue bows add a finishing touch. It fully lines the interior of the bassinet with floor-length, three-tier layered skirt attached...

	American Baby Company Waterproof Bassinet Sheeting Pad List Price: $7.99 Sale Price: $7.99

	Argington Organic Bam Bassinet Bumper, White List Price: $38.50 Sale Price: $38.50
	As an accessory, Argington offers a bumper especially made to fit our bassinet. The solid white quilted bumper is made of soft organic unbleached cotton and has ties to secure bumper to bassinet. Machine washable...

	The First Years Airflow Sleep Positioner List Price: $10.99 Sale Price: $10.00
	Designed for proper sleep position and greater air circulation for your baby. It helps keep sleeping infants on their backs as recommended, to help reduce the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome)...

Whatever your mode of travel, there will be special challenges if you take the kids along. The key to sanity is some careful planning - and a calm, unruffled approach.

Where Should we Stay?

If you are planning at stay at a bed and breakfast, do some research. Many bed and breakfasts are not suitable for children. However, you may be able to find a 'farmstay' - a bed and breakfast on a farm that allows your kids to interact with the animals. This can be an unequalled family experience - especially for city dwellers.

Staying in a hotel? Do they provide extra cots and/or cribs for children? Do they have a restaurant with a kids' menu? Is there a playroom or playground on the premises? Are there children's activities nearby?

What Should I Pack?

Use common sense. Every family is different. Check the following list and pack what is appropriate for your household:

Small first aid kit
Liquid anti-nausea medication
Liquid Tylenol
Individual-sized tissues
Moistened hand-wipes in individual packs
Paper towels
Photos of the kids and important details regarding medications
Telephone numbers of doctors (at home and at your destination)
Copies of passports, birth certificates, custody documentation
Decks of cards, favorite toys, children's books
Coloring books, crayons, mechanical pencils, paper
Crossword puzzle books, erasable pens, highlighters
Windbreakers, slickers, umbrellas
Sunglasses, hats, sunscreen
Plastic bags from grocery store checkout (for storage and cleanup)

(Check with your airline first to see if liquid or gel-based items are allowed in carry-on luggage.)

Diaper Disposal

There are scented disposal bags available - or you might want to pack some small zip-lock bags. Plastic grocery bags or newspaper bags can also be used. The solid matter should be disposed of down the toilet. Next, roll the diaper up with the soiled area facing inwards so that you have a compact bundle with the plastic on the outside. Place the diaper in the zip-lock bag, seal most of the way, then press out as much air as possible while you complete the seal. Discard in a bathroom garbage container or outside garbage bin.

If you are outdoors and there are no outhouse or bathroom facilities nearby, you should carry the entire diaper contents with you, disposing of appropriately when you find a garbage bin or bathroom. DO NOT leave diapers or diaper contents behind. Besides polluting the environment, some animals are attracted to human waste. Protect the environment even more by making sure that you purchase biodegradable diapers (or switch to cloth).

If you must carry soiled diapers along with you for any length of time, you might want to consider packing a few deodorant disks or a baking-soda based scented deodorizer.

Snacks

If your children are finicky eaters, chances are you will encounter problems with airline and restaurant meals. Pack a few nutritious snacks. Snacks may include fresh fruit, granola bars, individual-size cereal boxes, cheese and crackers, raisins, unsalted peanuts - or snack-size containers of applesauce, puddings, and fruit cocktail.

Boredom

Boredom is always going to be a problem. Even a half-hour trip seems like a long time to a young child. The easiest and most accessible boredom solution is YOU. Use the time to interact with your kids. Ask them questions. Get them to tell you stories if they are old enough. You can keep young children entertained by telling them stories - complete with sound effects of animal noises, whistles, and whatever else you can invent.

Play guessing games like 'I Spy' with older kids, or get them involved in some children's cards games. Although games like 'Go Fish' can be played with a regular deck of cards, there are many games with special, brightly-colored decks made just for children. Do an internet search for 'card games for kids' and you'll find plenty of resources.

Inactivity

Sitting still for long periods of time is not a natural activity for children. If you're on a plane, train, or bus, get up and take a walk down the aisle once every hour. When travelling by car, find an appropriate pullout and play frisbee or go for a short walk.

Relax - Lighten Up - Unwind

Treat every family trip as an opportunity to connect with your children. Relax, enjoy their unique personalities, and enjoy yourself!

©Copyright Kathy Steinemann: This article is free to publish only if this copyright notice, the byline, and the author's note below (with active links) are included.