Travel Tips for Tiny Tots

If you are going on a trip with the fam soon & are wondering what to bring on the plane, here are some tips.

First I am starting with the goods that would make the trip nice for mom.

FOR MOM

Earplugs: Help reduce headaches due to cabin pressure and loud noises from the engine (people in the Army use earplugs when they fly, so it must be good) You can buy earplugs from Target. There are different kinds, foam or silicone. There is actually a brand called Earplanes earplugs that are pressure regulating.

Origins Peace of Mind: On the spot relief lotion ... "apply just two dabs of Origins mind-clearing formula on the back of your neck, temples and earlobes. You'll feel a tingling sensation as pressure, tension and tightness begin to melt away." The smell of Peppermint and Eucalyptus is so invigorating! It comes in a little bottle that is only $10 but totally worth it. Not only does it reduce stress, but it drowns out odors from surrounding passengers and food. Love love love this!

Lotion, Moisturizing Lip Balm, Eye Drops, Drinking Water: Dehydration can occur while flying on airplanes, minimize your caffeine & alcohol intake, and stay moisturized and hydrated. Drink one cup of water per hour of flying on an airplane.

Make-Up Touch Up Kit: Concealer to cover redness and puffiness to look rested and also for under your eyes if your eyeliner runs and accentuates dark circles. Powder, use to give a refreshing look and to soak up oil build-up on skin. Blush for a warm welcoming rosy cheek smile when you greet your friends and family at baggage claim.

Next, this list is for the kiddos. Try to seat them next to a window. They'll enjoy playing with the window flap and looking at the view. Make sure to disinfect with antibacterial wipes first because kids like to put their lips on the window and bite the window flap handles.

FOR TOTS

Kid I.D. Tag: Place a band aid or adhesive tape for skin on the arm of your child. Write your name, your child's name and two emergency phone numbers to call in case your child is lost.

Layers: Layer the kids because temperature varies in the airport and airplane. This is also good for mom in case baby spits up on you. You won't have to smell it and tolerate it through the entire trip.

Travel Pillow or Blanket

DVD Player with Fav/New Movies

Disinfectant Antibacterial Wipes

Empty Water Bottles: Bring bottles through security and then refill them from Starbucks. Ask for a Venti Ice Water (the water is filtered and free). This will help if you're using formula for the babes. I was given this advice from the security lady at the airport. I love this tip!

Hyland's Chamomile 30X: You can buy this at Whole foods to calm your children's nerves and help them nap better on planes

Apis Mell or Benadryl: In case your child has an allergic reaction to something, you will want to come prepared with something to immediately counter the reaction. Apis Mell is the homeopathic solution to allergic reactions. You can also buy this at Whole Foods.

Sandwiches: Peanut butter and jelly or your kid's favorites

Bagel & Cream Cheese: An alternative to sandwiches

Fruit: Clementines are easy to transport and my kids find it fun and delicious

Snacks: Our palette craves both salty and sweet so bring your child's favorite snacks or some new ones that your kids will be excited about! Ex. string cheese, teddy grahams, goldfish, dried fruit, dried cereal like Cheerios or granola/fruit bars...

Books: Light, small books, maybe with flaps or texture, are help pass the time

Toys: Playdoh is ALWAYS a hit. Get a nice container to put a few colors and tools. Magna doodles (or a smaller version like Dora/Diego doodle) is great. Crayons and coloring books have also worked well with the kids.

Pacifiers, Sippy Cups and Lollipops (for age appropriate toddlers): To reduce the air pressure for the kids, give them something to suck on during the ascent and descent.

Things To Talk About: Explain enthusiastically to your children with books pictures or just storytelling about their trip on the airplane, like where they're going, who they will see and what things they will do. They love details!