June 7, 2010

On the road again, with baby

The summer travel season is upon us. It actually reminds me of Christmas time. Make your list, check it twice. Babies show no forgiveness if an essential item is forgotten on a vacation. Of course, you have the basics like a safe and sturdy car seat for road trips. But there are a few items to take along that you might not think of. Pacifier Wipes are useful when your baby likes to play "fetch" with you. You know the game when your baby drops the pacifier and you get to pick it up 15 times?

Another travel necessity is toys. Toys, toys, toys. These can't be just any set of toys. They have to be new and exciting. Small but colorful toys like Jacques the Peacock are just what your baby needs to stay entertained. He has plenty of features to keep your baby busy and there is a clip that will keep him from rolling away if your baby lets go of him.

You probably plan to bring snacks. Good idea. You need to serve these snacks in a travel friendly and kid friendly way or you will have a real mess on your hands. Snack traps keep food in the cup and are soft enough for little fingers to reach in and grab what they need. If you think your little one is old enough to forego the sippy cup on this trip and you opt for juice boxes, you may want to consider a firm juice box holder like this one.

This drink box holder is available in several colors and fits almost all juice box and juice bag brands. No more squeezy surprises that will cover your baby and car in a sticky mess.

Last, don't forget how much garbage a little person can create on a road trip. Bring plenty of bags that you saved from grocery shopping. It's a great way to contain any mess, from dirty diapers to snack wrappers. After a long drive, the last thing you will want to do is clean out a cluttered car.

Getting away on an old fashioned family road trip can be fun. The key is to prepare and prepare some more. Go get ready and hit the road!