Traveling with a BUSY little lady!

Hey guys! How many people find themselves dreading travel days with a baby or toddler? Starting off vacation stressed because of multiple flights? In Blake’s 13 months of being alive, she has been on 23 flights (yes, I Clorox wipe every inch of our row and seats). For some background, I am an event planner by trade. I start packing (in everyone’s opinion) way too early. However, with a child I have found it is better to pack early and be prepared, because come travel day nothing will go as planned. At least you can be packed already, right?

Flying First Class is by far the best way to fly with a baby who thinks she is a toddler and is very “busy”. I do not want to pay full price for First Class. The cool thing about First Class is no one likes paying for it and therefore airlines usually have extra seats. For example, on United when you go to check in 24 hours in advance, they prompt you to upgrade to first class for a minimal charge (when they have First Class seats available). TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS! They only offer it once. Don’t hesitate, because you won’t have another chance to upgrade. Most airlines will offer a similar deal if you call customer service and ask if First Class is available they day before your flight. They will charge you a fraction of the regular cost over the phone. This past holiday on one flight the upgrade was only $65, which was worth it (in my opinion). I can’t tell you enough how much better our 7+ hour travel day (with a 13 month old) to Canada was over the Christmas holiday. Having all the extra room in First Class for Blake to play was amazing, and she didn’t bug our neighbors too much.

Here are some of the items I have found VERY useful in traveling with a baby are (links included):

Ergo Baby 360 Carrier – For me it is easier to wear her through the airport instead of worrying with a stroller. She also loves it (especially when I have to run to catch a connecting flight).
Contigo Kids Water Bottle – Easy to close and doesn’t leak
Jellycat Soother Blanket – Comfy stuffed animal she can chew on to fall asleep.
Jellycat books – The tails book, If I were a ____, Basically any of the books that have things to touch.
Skiphop Diaper Clutch – So easy to put diapers, wipes etc. without having to take or unpack your whole diaper bag.
Lululemon All Day Tote – This bag holds everything. Diaper changing clutch, iPad, blankets, toys, snacks. It isn’t a diaper bag, but I have used it as one and LOVE IT!