As our trip to FLA approaches, I am re-checking my list and I'm starting to wonder if I've covered all my bases.
We are basically doing a tour of the whole darn state b/c we are trying to see all of DH's relatives (long story, but there was a death in the family last week, and DH really wants to see all his grandparents NOW and I totally agree). SO, we will be spending ALOT of time in the car...5 hours to Key West and 5 hours back. Then another 5 hours to Clearwater/Tampa....sooooo...I am trying to think of as much as possible to keep Paul happy/occupied during all this travel. Here's what I've got so far...
Toys and stuff... * coloring book/crayons * colorforms * magnetic playset * mini-magnadoodle * stickers * bubbles (not for plane or car, but...) My MIL also has some larger toys for Paul at her house, and she bought him some new beach toys...
Food/Snacks...(for the plane and the car) * Lollipops (to help w/his ears) * Sippy cups * cereal bars * raisins * cheerios * goldfish * animal crackers
Gear... * umbrella stroller * Life vest * safety harness * reusable window tinting * carseat (bringing ours) * pack n play (at my MIL's house already) * booster seat (at MIL's) * water sandals * sunscreen and bug repellant * rain cover and bug net for stroller (just in case)
What else do I need??? Well, besides a bunch of valium??? I swear it was easier to travel with him when he was tiny! Any suggestions would be appreciated...and any words of advice from the BTDT toddler Moms is appreciated too!
michele31
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Re: Okay, what else do I need??? Final checklist...
Where is the butler to carry all of this stuff You forgot to pack him too
Elizabeth
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Re: Okay, what else do I need??? Final checklist...
-Hat for out in the sun? -Pillow - I guess they have those little ones on the plane - you can take one with you for the car. -Lots of film so you can post pics for LIW Mommies ASAP
Are you renting a car or using your ILs? What are the arrangements for a carseat?
When are you going? Im so jealous. Last time I was in Key West was so long ago - another lifetime - but I'd love to go there with Derek & the kids (I know we wont be going before July)
I love Clearwater too. My oldest friend use to live in Palm Harbor and have lots of great memories of that area as well.
Claud2001
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Re: Okay, what else do I need??? Final checklist...
Posted by michele31
Where is the butler to carry all of this stuff You forgot to pack him too
What do you mean? Jeff is coming with us!
Claud2001
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Re: Okay, what else do I need??? Final checklist...
Liz, thanks for the pillow suggestion...maybe I'll ask my MIL to throw one in the car....although I'm not sure how he'd use it with the carseat? We will be bringing Paul's carseat (to use on the plane), and we are renting a minivan so that we all (us & in-laws) can travel together. Thank god they offered to split the cost with us, b/c minivans are expensive!
We are also bringing Paul's two favorite 'blankies' with us and his two 'lovies' - Clifford and George.
I've got a cute little chambray bucket hat for Paul and I PRAY he will keep it on while we are in the sun!
ETA: No film needed....between us and the grandparents, we are a totally digital family!
Elizabeth
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Re: Okay, what else do I need??? Final checklist...
DUH! What am in 1955? I mention the carseat in one breath and in another Im imagining you driving across Florida with Paul lying across the backseat sleeping. LOL!
I didnt realize you were bringing his carseat to use on the plane. Do they require that or does it just work out since you need it for the car portion of the trip too?
Claud2001
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Re: Okay, what else do I need??? Final checklist...
I am not sure if the airlines 'require' you to have a carseat for a toddler, but since Paul's seat does fit the size limitation AND we need it for the car portion, we are bringing it. Also, I just don't feel it's safe NOT to have him in a seat on the plane. Plus, he would NEVER stay seated on my lap...he's just not going to sit still for that long, unless he's strapped in.
michele31
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Re: Okay, what else do I need??? Final checklist...
You can ask Stef (Luke works for a airline investigation agency) about the safety of children without car seats on planes. It is NEVER a good idea. You cannot physically hold a child tight enough during emergency situations. They need a car seat for safety, as per her husband.
anna
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Re: Okay, what else do I need??? Final checklist...
Seems you have your list all set...
Will you need icepacks/icebox to keep snacks and drinks cool in the car for (Paul and you and Jeff also?)
I cant think of anything else. It seems youve covered all bases! and anything you might have forgotten you can always take a rest stop and shop and stretch your legs in the midst of your long drives!
Have lots of fun!
Victoria
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Re: Okay, what else do I need??? Final checklist...
Do you need sheets for the pack n play or does MIL have those too? That is all I can think of.
Claud2001
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Re: Okay, what else do I need??? Final checklist...
YES! Victoria - thanks for that reminder! I do need PnP sheets!
elle
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My Dr told us to give Aidan a little Benadryl or pediacare before the flight . He said that it would help clear out his ears-- It worked wonders --plus it put him to sleep ! We had a peaceful flight! Also - dont forget -- you get to board first with the ' small ' child!! It is very nice !!!! Have a great time!
Victoria
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Re: Okay, what else do I need??? Final checklist...
I am just getting Annalise ready to go swimming. As I took out a swim diaper for her I realized you may need these too. If you use the dispoasbale ones I guess you could buy them in FL if you want to save space in your suitcase.
chmlengr
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Re: Okay, what else do I need??? Final checklist...
Claud - looks like you have everything covered. Just wanted to say, have a great time!!
Claud2001
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Posted by elle
My Dr told us to give Aidan a little Benadryl or pediacare before the flight . He said that it would help clear out his ears-- It worked wonders --plus it put him to sleep ! We had a peaceful flight! Also - dont forget -- you get to board first with the ' small ' child!! It is very nice !!!! Have a great time!
I asked Paul's pediatrician about this, and I was told that it's not necessary. But, they are very against giving any medicines unless absolutely necessary. They told me that his sippy cup or a lollipop will help him swallow during take off and landing - which will equalize the pressure in his ears. I don't really want Paul to have a medicine induced sleep on the plane, b/c our flight is in the evening and I want him to sleep through the night when we get to my IL's house!
JennRenee
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Re: Okay, what else do I need??? Final checklist...
No suggestions... just have a good time!
princess99
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Re: Okay, what else do I need??? Final checklist...
Sunscreen... Maybe I missed it on you're list. I am so impressed u r so organized! I only hope when I have a little one I am so organized! Hope all of you have a wonderful and safe trip!
jenny11.9
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Re: Okay, what else do I need??? Final checklist...
you left off the most important thing...
your sanity.
Looks like you have it covered. Make sure there's a date with your husband on that list for when Paul settles into his pack n play at Grandmas!!!!
Claud2001
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Re: Okay, what else do I need??? Final checklist...
Posted by jenny11.9
you left off the most important thing...
your sanity.
Looks like you have it covered. Make sure there's a date with your husband on that list for when Paul settles into his pack n play at Grandmas!!!!
Jenny Re: the sanity...I think I'd rather remain hopelessly insane for the duration of the trip - it will probably be easier for me to deal with all the 'togetherness' with my in-laws.
And -> YES! Jeff and I have already scheduled in some 'date' time while we are down there!
