Traveling with Tots-a survival guide

Submitted by beantownmom on February 9, 2007 - 19:11.

Out of desperation and fear of shear boredom, I recently traveled alone to my in laws with my toddler while my husband was on business. I was ready for the challenge and put my organizational skills to work. I starting surfing the web to find information and helpful hints but there was little to be found. I asked friends and though out scenarios. In the end, it was confidence and pre planning that made the trip a complete success. Don’t get me wrong, I am not thrilled about doing it again but now I know I can do it. Here is what I suggest:

1. Go to the airline web site and see what they say about traveling with kids. The last thing you want it to be surprised so make sure you
know their rules about carry on food, etc.

2. Try to get a seat in the first row. This way you have the attention of the flight attendant and the room of the bulkhead.

3. Call the airline once your ticket is booked and tell them you are traveling alone with a child and that you will need an escort from ticketing, through security to the gate and again from the arrival gate to baggage claim. This is key and saved me many grey hairs. I was able to, with the airline escort, bypass the usual security line and go through the employee line. They helped with my car seat, amused my daughter and generally kept things light and easy. I offered a tip, which was taken at one end and refused at the other.

4. By all means, if you are taking your car seat on the plane (or even if you are checking it at the gate) buy the gogo kidz travelmate via amazon.com. It’s easy to use and fits all car seats. I even kept in on the car seat on the plane (might want to take it off in the car for maximum safety and to minimize seat damage). Your child can sit right in the car seat while you are towing them….it’s great!

5. Finally, think the day through in your head. I ordered a car service, called them to be sure they understood I was bringing a car seat in their car, reconfirmed with the airline regarding the escort and held my breathe.

In the end, the hardest thing was physically attaching the car seat in the car service car and in the plane….you need some muscle to get those things tight. I chipped a few nails, cursed a few times but we made it and my in laws were thrilled and I was very impressed with myself.

( categories: Travel )