unlvasa.org

Whether this is your first family vacation and you don’t know what to expect, or you’ve done this before and it’s
memorable for all the wrong reasons, we’re sure you’ll find these travel tips useful. After 5 years in the baby equipment rental business and contact with thousands of families, we’ve come up with some tips that address the questions we’re most often asked.

1. How can I change a diaper in that teeny weeny not-so-clean airplane bathroom? We’re sure you’ve thought about using the big clean airport bathroom before you board. While on the airplane, try using the Business Class bathrooms. They are generally bigger and cleaner as they are used by fewer people. Not only will you get sympathy smiles instead of the glares you might otherwise encounter if you tried sneaking in solo, but you can also use this bathroom yourself!. If you plan to travel a lot, you might want to invest in a diaper bag that also functions as a changing station. There are a number of them out on the market.
2. I really don’t want to bring my carseat on the airplane, but how else can I keep my two year old safe (and contained?) Airplane seat belts are designed for adults, but we’ve got good news. Consider purchasing or renting a CARES Aviation Restraint for your trip. CARES is a device that attaches to the airplane seatbelt, turning it into a 5-point harness. It is approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for use on all planes, weighs less than 1 lb, and is designed for children 22-44 lbs. Best of all you can fit it in your purse!
3. I’m afraid my baby will cry for the entire flight! This is a common concern. But worry not. Most babies do not cry for the ENTIRE flight! Give your baby a soother or something to drink during take-off and landing so their ears won’t get plugged. If your baby cries during the flight, go for a walk, or even let them watch TV. Sometimes the colours and movement will mesmerize babies. You could also be plan ahead and stock up on a few dozen sets of earplugs. Pass them out to nearby passengers. It’s a great ice breaker and they’ll appreciate your sense of humour!
4. How will I keep my toddler entertained during the flight? Bring a small DVD player with a new DVD. Although most planes now have personal screen in the seats, you can’t always find a show that will interest your child. Colouring books, Lego, puzzles and books are also life savers…so is the red-eye flight!
5. My baby has just started sleeping through the night. Is the time change going to mean a big step back?Try taking an evening flight, or overlap the flight with your child’s nap time. Your kids will sleep better if it’s their natural circadian rhythm…and you won’t have to worry about entertaining them.
6. I’m traveling on my own with my baby. How am I going to manage a carseat, stroller, pack n play, luggage, carry-on and my baby?There is no need to haul your nursery along for the trip. Most cities have baby equipment rental companies
   where you will be able to get top-of-the-line baby gear delivered right to your door, all safety checked and sanitized. This will also save you from having to pay the excess baggage fees that most airlines have implemented.
7. Do a stroller and car seat count towards my baggage allowance? Different airlines have different policies. Generally each paying flyer is allowed 2 pieces of baggage. Some flights will let you take a carseat or stroller on in addition to this at no cost. Visit your airlines’ website well before your flight and search for the section on traveling with children. It will tell you stroller restrictions, weight limits and special seat bookings. Most airlines allow you to take your stroller right to the airplane gate, which makes getting around the airport easier.
8. We have a two hour stop-over. How do I entertain my child? It’s not easy to entertain a child. But get your child a boredom busting Trunki and they’ll stop asking you “how much longer?”. The Trunki Ride-On Suitcase is just that – a suitcase that your child can ride on, pull, and pack with all their own special things. They can ride it around the airport while you’re waiting for the plane or sit on it to rest their tired legs. It comes with a handy strap so you can pull them too (if they’re lucky). You can also bring a balloon for entertainment- let them bat it around and chase after it. it will give them a focus for their running and tire them out for the next leg of your journey!
9. It’s a long flight for a small child. I just know he’s going to get bored and cranky. Bring snacks! It’s amazing how much latitude you can get by presenting your child with his or her favourite treat! Make sure they drink lots. Planes are dehydrating and a dehydrated child is often a cranky child. When booking your flight, check to make sure it has seat back televisions. This is one time when you can treat them by letting them watch as long as they like.
10. I’m traveling alone. What do I do with my baby when I need to go to the bathroom?Ask a flight attendant to watch your child. Better yet, hope Barbara Walters is on your flight. She recently commented that she always loves to hold babies when she is on the plane! If your child doesn’t want to let you out of their site, just bring them with you…but make sure they don’t play with the door handle…we’ve learned from experience!