a joyful jaunt

Around the World

By Leave a Comment

Mom Guilt- Traveling Without your Kids Edition

Last Thursday, I flew to Arizona and spent the weekend getting to know 300 incredible women who live in my computer. SassyCon 2018 was amazing; I laughed, I cried, I danced, I did yoga, I learned things, and I made friends. If you happen to be a small business owner, a direct sales representative or a female entrepreneur of any kind, I highly recommend this convention and would love to see you there next year… but that is not what this post is about. See, what I noticed over and over during this weekend retreat was that SO MANY women struggled with terrible mom guilt over the idea of traveling without their children. Since this is one (very small) area of parenting that I don’t seem to struggle with mom guilt, I thought I would share a little bit about why I find it easy to travel without my kid in the hopes that it might help alleviate some of the mom guilt for someone else.

mom guilt

Know before you go

     First and foremost, I KNOW before I ever leave for a trip that my daughter will be in good hands while I’m away. This time, she stayed with my own mom whom I know is quite capable of keeping a child alive for a couple of days because my sister and I both survived to adulthood. Next month, she will be spending time with her Daddy who I happen to see actively caring for her on a daily basis. And to be honest, if I didn’t trust his parenting skills, I wouldn’t have chosen to have a child with him in the first place. Basically, in either case I can assuage my own conscience with a reminder that while I may be hundreds of miles away, my daughter is being safely cared for by other people who love her and whom I trust. In fact, me stepping out of the picture and giving them a chance to bond with her can be nothing but good. It is healthy (and sometimes imperative) for children to have other adults in their life that they love and can turn to in times of crisis.

Don’t sweat the small stuff (and mom guilt LOVES the small stuff)

Mom guilt is like a Hydra so just cutting off one of the monster’s heads is hardly ever enough. Knowing that Maggie is physically safe isn’t always enough to keep me from worrying about the minutia of day-to-day life and keeping her routine. She may be eating (a metric crapload) more junk food and not going to bed on time without me there to dictate the rules, but she will eventually eat a meal and get some sleep. She may not brush her teeth as often as I would like or wear clothes that match, but I can guarantee that none of those things will matter in the long-run. Just because things aren’t being done exactly the way I would do them, is not a reason for me to stress. Staying up past bedtime and eating enough candy in a week to make Willy Wonka cry will not ruin her for life. Honestly, as long as she is alive and relatively healthy by the time I get back, it’s probably not anything that therapy can’t fix, right?

Not today, Satan

Physical issues of safety aside, mom guilt whispers lies like “they’re going to have abandonment issues” or “they are going to remember that you weren’t there.” As an adult, I can tell you that the time I spent at my grandparent’s house when I was growing up constitutes some of my best childhood memories. It was the childhood equivalent of a cruise or an all-inclusive resort. My grandparents had infinitely more fun and patience than my parents who had to deal with my butt every day. They let me watch more tv, play more video games, stay out a little later, eat more junk food, and generally let me have more fun because they were grandparents who wanted to spoil me instead of parents who had to raise me into a responsible citizen. If I had a basketball game or school assembly, my grandparents took me so I still felt loved and supported even if my parents missed that particular event.  The thought of where my Mom was or what she was doing without me never even crossed my mind because I was happily enjoying the high life at Grandma’s house. So anytime those niggling little feelings of mom guilt start creeping in, I mentally exclaim “Not Today, Satan!”

 

Fill your cup

 You can’t pour from an empty cup so if you are away from your kids, use it as a time to refill. Chances are, if you are away from them you are choosing to do that because it recharges you somehow. For example: a business trip might make you feel empowered, a training conference might ignite your passion to learn new things, or a vacation with your partner may strengthen the bond between you… but whatever it is, tell your mom guilt to suck it because you are busy refilling your cup so that you can be a better parent once you return to real life. 

You can’t miss someone who never leaves

Finally, it is GOOD for both you and your kids to get away from each other sometimes. You’ve heard the old adage that “absence makes the heart grow fonder”, right? Well, you definitely can’t miss someone who is with you 24/7. By stepping away from your kids, you will remember all of the things that gave these tiny humans such a special place in your heart to begin with. And while they might enjoy being absolutely spoiled rotten in your absence, they will be happy to see you again when you get back as well. Give yourselves a chance to miss each other and the hugs at the end of your trip will be SO worth it. I promise!

 

Mom guilt is no joke but I hope this makes traveling without your kids just a little bit easier. But don’t worry, if your next trip is a little more family-friendly, I also happen to think it’s really important to travel with your kids. Check out this post if you’re curious about why you shouldn’t leave them behind every time, even if you’ve got the mom guilt thing under control. Have you ever traveled without your kids? Let us know in the comments if you’re scared of this or have more tips on how to make it easier!

 

 

 

 

By Leave a Comment

How to Get Through Airport Security Painlessly

If you’re like most people, getting through airport security ranks somewhere between “going to the dentist” and “filing my taxes” on the list of Things I’d Rather Not Have To Do. I’m here to tell you that while it probably won’t ever be the highlight of your vacation, airport security also doesn’t have to be completely miserable. Without further ado, here are my top ten tips on how to get through airport security painlessly.

airport security

1. Take it slow

The biggest mistake people make when dealing with airport security is simply trying to rush the process. Plan ahead and make sure you have plenty of time for shenanigans rather than trying to run to your gate at the last second. All of the stress around this particular hassle will be greatly reduced if you aren’t simultaneously trying to rush through the process. Trust me on this one. I always try to get to the airport at least two hours before my flight. 

2. Whip it out

From the time you enter the front doors of the airport until you are listening to a flight attendant tell you where to find the emergency exits of your plane, you will be asked for your boarding pass and ID multiple times. Keep these items somewhere accessible like a small cross-body bag or in the front pocket of your carry-on luggage to make it easier to pull them out for your ticketing agent, airport security, and gate agent. Personally, I really like this purse for traveling because it has RFID protection to keep your identity safe, is easy to wipe clean, and is made of sturdy materials to help keep your items with you. Plus, it’s small enough to fit inside your carry-on suitcase or a larger personal item if you need more space.

3. Empty your pockets

Many people expect to return from vacation with empty pockets, but did you know it’s also best to START your trip that way? Before you even hit the security line, move everything out of your pockets and into your purse or bag. Tissues, pocket change, car keys… literally everything. That way, you won’t have to fumble with it in the security line. Besides, the fewer loose items you have floating around, the less risk you run of leaving something behind.

4. Be prepared to strip

I’m not talking Demi Moore in Striptease here, but if you are wearing a jacket, sweater, scarf or any other kind of layers,  you will be asked to remove it and send it through the scanner with the rest of your belongings. Belts and large jewelry will also need to be removed. This is easily something you can do ahead of time while you are waiting in line so that you don’t feel so rushed when it’s your turn at the conveyor belt.

5. Put a sock in it

People will tell you to wear slip-on shoes to make it easier to get through airport security because you’ll have to remove them and place them on the conveyer belt. It’s good advice, but only half of what you need to hear. While flip-flops will certainly make the security process easier, they also leave you exposed. Once you take them off and find yourself standing barefoot, you may feel a little more naked than you bargained for as you picture the thousands of other people who have stood in that exact spot with their athlete’s foot, toenail fungus, or warts. EW.

via GIPHY

 

Instead, try wearing a slip-on flat or sneaker with a sock or liner to give you some protection. I usually go with something like these to help reduce the Ew Factor if I’m not able to wear real socks.

6. Get off the grid

The TSA has recently changed their rules regarding electronics so make sure you are paying attention to this one. Basically, any device larger than your cellphone needs to come out of the bag and lay flat in a tray with nothing under it or on top of it. This doesn’t include things like your hair dryer, but anything with a computer chip or motherboard (think tablets, laptops, handheld video games…) will need to come out of the bag and be individually screened.

7. Hold your liquid

Remember Major Payne making fun of the six year old for peeing his pants? No? Just me? Ok then, this is awkward. Anyway… the rules for liquids are a little weird if you don’t travel frequently so let me break this one down for you.

      • All liquids and gels (deodorant, toothpaste, lip gloss, lube, hand sanitizer, medicines, whatever…) need to be in individual containers no larger than 3.4 ounces each. If you have 2 ounces of shampoo in a 15 ounce bottle, expect it to be thrown out. If you have a drink with you, expect it to be thrown out. Think travel-sized necessities only here.
      • All of your containers need to fit inside a single quart-sized clear plastic bag. A properly-sized Ziploc bag will work but if you need a little more structure or want one you can use for perpetuity, this one works nicely.

    • Your clear bag has to be removed from your carry-on and placed in a bin to go through the x-ray machine along with your shoes, belt, jacket, and electronics.

8. Expect to be felt up 

Unfortunately, even if you do everything right, there is still a chance you will be selected for additional screening. This may include a quick swab over the palms of your hands or a pat-down by a security officer. For most of us, this is just a time to make awkward jokes about not being felt up this much since Senior Prom. But if you happen to have social anxiety or have been a victim of sexual abuse in the past, then this is no laughing matter. As your friend, I’m telling you to mentally prepare yourself ahead of time in case either of these issues apply to you. Here are some things you should know:

  • Your pat-down will be conducted by an officer of the same gender and you have the right to request a private screening if you so choose. Your private screening will include a second officer as a witness and you can bring your travel companion with you as well.
  • Pat-downs may cover sensitive areas and you may be touched more than once. They should be using the BACK of their hand to touch you anywhere around your breasts, buttocks, or groin so it is truly a pat and not a grope that you are experiencing.
  • Additional security screening is not aimed at you in particular and is not intended to be sexual in nature. It will be over soon if you just keep breathing.

9. Keep your eyes on the prize

Keep an eye on your items as though go through the security scanners and come out the other end. It’s awfully easy for someone to mistakenly (or not), grab the wrong bag and while you may be surrounded by Security agents, they are screening your belongings rather than paying attention to who they belong to. Always double check the area and make sure you have everything you need before you leave the security screening area.

10. Ask for help

If you have special circumstances, do not hesitate to ask for help. You can start here with me, check the TSA website, search your airline’s FAQ page, or talk to your ticketing agent. Whether you are sending a minor to travel alone, unable to walk the distance required to get to your gate or remove your shoes for airport security, if you can’t read the signage, or don’t know the rules about traveling with an infant… whatever your special circumstances happen to be, don’t be afraid to ask for help. The more you can plan ahead to accommodate your needs, the easier it will be to adjust accordingly and the more pleasant your experience is likely to be.

 

 

Got a great tip or another question about getting through airport security? Let me know in the comments! Thanks for reading along and if you need more tips for the rest of your journey, check out this A-Z guide to travel.

 

 

 

 

 

By Leave a Comment

Packing for a cruise- 7 Nights in the Caribbean

If you’ve never traveled by ship, the idea of packing for a cruise can seem a little overwhelming. Luckily for you (and let’s be honest, me) I’ve been on lots of cruises and have the packing thing pretty well mastered at this point so I’m about to make your life REALLY easy. Below is my Packing for a Cruise Checklist that will tell you what to take for your trip to the Caribbean. Follow me after the list for answers to WHY I suggest some of these things or links on where to find them.

Let’s Talk About Clothes

Dressy Outfits

On a 7 Night Caribbean Cruise, the main dining room of your ship will host two Elegant or Formal dinners. Acceptable fashion choices can range from ballgowns and tuxedos to slacks and a nice blouse, but don’t expect to fit in these nights if you wander in wearing jeans or shorts. Cruise lines in general are becoming more lenient in their dress codes but if you don’t want to feel out of place, either dress nicely or plan on visiting one of the more casual restaurants those evenings… it’s a good time to check out the buffet or enjoy room service if lobster and prime rib aren’t worth dressing up for.

Smart Casual Outfits

Most people think packing for a cruise requires two outfits for every day of their vacation but that really isn’t the case. Unless you happen to be a Kennedy, you probably don’t shower and “dress for dinner” normally but you are likely to do exactly that after being in the sun all day, so lighten your load and plan on letting those 4 smart casual outfits do double-duty. Once you dress for dinner, plan on wearing that outfit around the next day for your explorations. Not sure what smart-casual means? Basically, just dress like you are having dinner at a country club or a nice chain restaurant and you will be fine. 

Casual Tops and Bottoms

Leggings, yoga pants, jean shorts, tshirts & tank tops all fit in here. Take a couple tops and bottoms that you can mix and match in case you want something a little more casual and comfortable after dinner, on-shore or during your days at sea.

Swimwear

You will probably spend A LOT of time in your bathing suit and it’s never fun to put on a wet one, so bring a spare. A swim cover is helpful to get you around the ship comfortably but you don’t need a new one for every day so save the space in your luggage.

Sweater

You never know how well air-conditioned the public places onboard the ship will be or how windy it will be on deck. Bring a sweater or a light jacket for the possibility of cooler temps.

Unmentionables

-Even if you sleep in the buff, bring a light robe or pajamas. Nothing like having the Room Steward knock on your door and not having any clothes to throw on quickly. Ask me how I know.
-Pack one pair of underwear for every day of the trip plus one extra. You can wash them in the sink/shower or have a bag of laundry done onboard if you run into dire circumstances… you’ll spend most of your time in your swimsuit anyway.
-Bring a strapless or convertible style bra if your dresses require it. I’ve forgotten that when packing for a cruise before and it wasn’t the look I had planned… plus, if you happen to be the unfortunate soul with a terrible sunburn as your souvenir, you will have an option that spares your tender shoulders.
-Even if you aren’t planning to wear tennis shoes, pack at least one pair of socks. Many ships have rock-climbing walls, bowling alleys, or ice-skating rinks you can enjoy. And if not, they can always serve as slippers to keep your feet warm.

Shoes

You don’t need every pair of shoes you own, Imelda Marcos. Limit it to just a few pairs (all with good traction for slippery decks) that can get the job done:
1. Close-toed shoes for more active endeavors like hiking ancient ruins, climbing the rock wall, or hitting the gym
2. Sandals or flip-flops, bonus points if they are both comfortable and nice enough to go from poolside to the dining room
3. Dress shoes for evening dinners and shows (one pair of black flats is usually all I need)
4. Water shoes if you are squeamish about the ocean or planning more adventurous water activities. Climbing Dunns River Falls in Jamaica, for instance, requires water shoes so if you don’t bring your own you will have to rent theirs.

Additional Considerations when packing for a cruise

First Things First

When you arrive at the cruise terminal, Porters will take your luggage onboard and deliver it to your stateroom later in the evening. It’s customary to tip them a buck or two for each bag so make sure you have a small amount of cash handy. You will also need your cruise documentation paperwork, personal identification, and probably an ink pen before boarding the ship so keep those out of your luggage. Once you get through the embarkation process, you will be issued a card that will be your room key and credit card onboard the ship so you will need it with you at all times. A lanyard or badge holder like this one can help make it easier to keep up with when your bathing suit or evening gown doesn’t have pockets.

You might even want a waterproof version for the beach or pool.

Drink it all in

Most cruise lines allow you to take a bottle of wine per stateroom (or per adult), or a small cache of soda or water onboard. If you bring these items, make sure you read your particular company’s restrictions ahead of time and follow the rules or they will make you throw it out. A wine opener & corker are a good addition if you bring your own beverages as the cruise companies will charge you a corkage fee if you ask them to open it in a public area. Most cruise lines include water, unsweet tea, and coffee as drink options leaving you the option to purchase juices and sodas. We like to take a pack of Crystal Light flavor packs with us to mask the taste of the water without having to waste money on other beverages. Something like this will work:

Plan for downtime

One of the nice things about cruising is that there is some time built in for relaxing in whatever capacity you prefer. A deck of cards or a small board game, may be just the thing to keep your family happy if the weather turns bad, so keep that in mind when packing for a cruise and throw one in the bag. For some folks, relaxing means playing on their phone, tablet, or laptop so make sure you bring your chargers if that sounds like you.  A power adaptor with USB plugs is a great way to charge additional tech items in your room, despite the limited number of outlets. We use this one for both cruises and international travel.

If your group has different interests, or is spread between several rooms, a set of waterproof walkie-talkie radios can be invaluable for locating each other while aboard the ship. We’ve taken this set on several trips with us and it has made it much more enjoyable than constantly trying to plan where to meet up.

 

Toiletries

Most of this section is pretty self-explanatory;  just pack whatever you use in the bathroom each morning to get yourself ready for the day. However, there are a couple of items you might not think of on a normal basis.

Smells like a good time

I’m not sure how to tell you this, but… your poop stinks. Your room and bathroom are small and you’re probably sharing the space with someone you love. Do your loved ones a favor and pack a small spritzer of air freshener or Poopouri. That’s all that needs to be said about that.

Stop the chub rub

If you happen to be shaped more like a mermaid than a super model (read: you lack a thigh gap), then there is a good chance that the combination of sweat, sand, saltwater, and skimpy shorts is going to lead to a little chub rub on your inner thighs. It happens to the best of us, but chafing isn’t fun for anyone so plan on stopping it before it even starts. I LOVE Monistat’s Chafing Gel designed specifically for this purpose (and bonus, it makes an excellent makeup primer, but I digress).

 

Just for kids

Cruises are great for families because they plan tons of activities to keep your little ones entertained without you having to lug too much extra crap around, but there are still a couple things worth considering when packing for a cruise that might not normally make it into your luggage.

Play Time

If you take advantage of the ship’s offerings, you won’t need many toys while onboard. We usually just bring the same ones we take along for a flight. Check out this post if you need some ideas. On the beach however, you might want something to keep them entertained while you soak up some sun. This is the set we take along for our trips and because it’s collapsible, it doesn’t take up tons of space.

Water Fun

Take an inflatable bath tub along if you have a baby or toddler and I guarantee you will find a use for it! It makes bathing your little one in the tiny bathrooms easier, but it has other uses as well. Use it as a float at the beach, for instance. Or fill it with water and let your little one splash around if they aren’t allowed in the main pool and you’re totally over the splash pad area. (Obviously, stay within arm’s reach and always supervise your kids appropriately).

 

packing for a cruise

Packing for a cruise doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In fact, I’ve tried to make this list as comprehensive as possible without making you sit on your suitcase to zip it up. Remember that you don’t need EVERYTHING on this list, just the things that fit in with your vacation priorities. Click here to print the checklist or save it to your computer. Did I miss something that you always take with you? Do you feel a little more prepared for your vacation after reading this? Let me know in the comments!

 

 

By Leave a Comment

Convention Packing List

Direct Sales can be a fun way to earn some extra cash for your family and connect with others who share your interests and passion, no matter which company you choose to work with. While I personally love being a LuLaRoe Retailer all year long, convention season in the summer is my favorite time of year. In 2018, I will not only get to attend my own company’s training in California this July but also an incredibly special one called SassyCon, hosted by the one and only Brenda Ster, that will bring together representatives from many different companies at the beginning of June. Since I can’t contain my excitement that long, I’m already putting together my convention packing list in April! If you are one of the millions of representatives who will be attending a direct sales summit this summer, I hope this convention packing list will help make it easier for you!

 

 

 

Click here to print the checklist as a PDF file. If you aren’t sure what I meant by something or think of a necessity that I didn’t include on my convention packing list, let me know in the comments.

convention packing list

 

Will you be attending any conventions or corporate retreats this summer? Tell me all about it!

By Leave a Comment

Top 10 Tips for Flying with a Baby

Congratulations, you booked your first flight with your baby! Now if you’re anything like I was, you’re probably as nervous as a vibrator salesman trying to get through airport security. My daughter made her first international flight at just 11 weeks old and I was scared of that trip…. I promise I get it! Your fears are totally normal but not really necessary. Let me help allay them by giving you my top ten tips for flying with a baby after having done it more than two dozen times myself.

1. Bring Baby’s birth certificate or passport

Most domestic airlines don’t ask for identification on your little one, but you are technically required to have it and they can stop you from flying without it. So one of my simplest tips for flying with a baby is to simply avoid the hassle and double check for identification before you leave home.

2. Wear the baby in a carrier

Getting  through ticketing, security, and navigating to your gate can be made much simpler by wearing your baby. Babywearing keeps your hands free to produce tickets, take off shoes, and whatever other tasks you need to do. Don’t be surprised if TSA does a more strenuous security check (like swabbing your hands or giving you a quick pat down) but it’s definitely worth it! If you also happen to be taking a stroller on your trip, plan on gate-checking it instead of dropping it with your checked bags; then it can be used as a luggage cart to hold everything else as you navigate the airport. If you don’t have a baby carrier you love, this one was a lifesaver for our family. 

3. Burn some energy

Once you reach the gate, let the baby get out as much active energy as possible in the terminal before you board. For tiny babies, this might mean sitting on a blanket on the floor for some tummy time, the Monkey Mat was perfect for this and took up very little room to pack. As kiddos get older, let them practice walking or take an inflatable ball to play with.

4. Take a potty break

At the very last second before they start the boarding process, go take a bathroom break and put your little one in a fresh diaper. It’s possible to do on a plane of course, but easier if you can avoid it as much as possible (or even altogether if it’s a relatively short flight).

5. Make a strategic decision about when you want to board

One of my favorite tips for flying with a baby is to DECIDE when you want to board the plane with your little one.
-If you are traveling alone and purchased a ticket for baby to sit in their car seat: board as EARLY as possible so you can get to your assigned spot and all your junk situated without clunking anyone in the head.
-If you are traveling alone and baby will be on your lap: consider boarding as LATE as possible. It might be easier to get on first, but it just adds extra time that you are cramped and trying to keep your munchkin happy. Besides, oftentimes the air conditioning/heat isn’t on during the boarding process and the cabin temperature can make your baby unnecessarily cranky.
-If you are traveling with another adult: one of you board as early as possible to get any carry-on items situated and your area set up, the other adult waits with the baby and basically tries to be the last person on the plane (or as close to it as possible).

6. Sanitize your space

Once you are seated with the baby still in the carrier, wipe down everything within reach with a sanitizer wipe. I’m far from germaphobic but airplanes are pretty notorious for making people sick and there is a lot of time to access those germs when you are flying in close quarters. Windows, arm rests, tray tables, seat backs, …. literally anything in reach of baby’s hands or mouth can be wiped down. After you are comfortable, go ahead and take baby out of the carrier. You can’t wear them during take off or landing anyway.

7. Suck it up

Give the baby a boob, bottle, pacifier or sippy cup during take off and landing. Sucking and swallowing will help their ears pop and keep them comfortable. If you do notice some discomfort or pulling at the ears, blow a couple of puffs of air in their face. They will swallow reflexively which might help relieve the pressure in their ears.

8. Water, water everywhere and not a drop to drink

If you need water to make a bottle or rinse one out during the flight, ask a flight attendant! The water in airplane lavatories is not potable and can upset your baby’s tummy or even make them seriously ill.

9. Make it fun

Take several small toys and snacks to entertain your little one during your flight. You don’t need to pack the whole toy box, but a few carefully chosen items can make ALL the difference. Check out this post if you need specific ideas or even more tips for flying with a baby!

10. Don’t be afraid to ask for help!

Let a flight attendant or a friendly person seated near you hold your baby if you need a potty break (or just a sanity break) mid-flight. Normally, I don’t condone handing your child off to strangers, but at 30,000 feet surrounded by a couple hundred witnesses your little one should be safe for the 120 seconds it takes you to get to a lavatory and back 😉 

flying with a baby

I hope these tips for flying with a baby have helped you feel more prepared and ready to travel with your little one. If you’re still skeptical about traveling with your darling offspring, read more here! If you might need to review this list and reassure yourself again next time you fly, feel free to pin me on Pinterest so you can find your way back!

By Leave a Comment

Flying with a Toddler- Sanity Saving Activities

The biggest concern a lot of parents have when flying with a toddler is how to keep their little monster angel entertained at 30,000 feet. After a good twenty or so flights with Maggie, we’re starting to figure it out! Providing distractions and entertainment is key when flying with a toddler, so here are some of our family’s best sanity-saving activities to help you get through your next (or first) flight as painlessly as possible.

Eat it up!

Take several snacks with you aboard the plane. Goldfish, dry cereal, blueberries, and raisins are all good plane snacks. Why? Because you can hand your toddler one at a time and keep them focused on this “project” a lot longer than something they could eat in just a couple of bites. Speaking of dragging things out, try not to EVER multi-task while flying with a toddler. Don’t watch a movie or play with toys while eating your snack; instead, focus on each individual task as an activity to eat up as much time as possible.

Swallow your pride!

If you are a Supermom who never lets their child near technology (I’ve heard they exist but never seen one in the wild), work on swallowing your pride while your tiny tot is busy fisting those Cheerios into his face. Flying with a toddler is the perfect time to make an exception and let your kid play on the tablet or phone. Download a couple of their favorite movies and some age-appropriate apps before your flight and you will be disturbed amazed at how long their attention span can be captivated by a screen. I’m fairly certain they won’t suffer irreparable rotting of the brain during one flight (no matter how long a ride it is) and they can return to their Montessori-approved activities once the landing gear is deployed.

traveling with a toddler

Our top ten toys

Parents often feel like they have to drag along the entire toy box to survive flying with a toddler but that really isn’t the case. The goal is to pack things that are small, quiet, and novel. These activities are also inexpensive so if something gets dropped on the floor of the plane or left behind in an airport restroom, it isn’t a major loss. Our favorite travel “toys” can be found everywhere from Amazon to the Dollar Tree.

    1. Self-sticking hair rollers make great plane toys! You can stack them, roll them, nest them, compare their sizes to each other, stick them to nearby objects… lots of entertaining options with these and since they fit inside of each other, it doesn’t take a lot of room to pack them.  Conair Self-Grip Rollers, Assorted, 31 Count
    2. A soft retractable tape measure can occupy a kid for a surprisingly long time. Let them pull it out and giggle as it retracts. Use it to measure everything in sight. Or, if you’re still feeling guilty about letting them play on the iPad, work on number recognition and counting. BUSHIBU 8 pcs150 cm 60 Inch Push Button Soft Retractable Tape Measure Handy Pocket Tape Measure Double-Sided Tailor’s Measuring Tape
    3. Kitchen sponges make fabulous silent blocks! Just pick up a small pack before your trip and use a sharp knife or scissors to cut them into rectangles, squares, and triangles. Store them in a Ziploc bag and use them to build flat pictures or vertical structures on the tray table mid-flight. After your trip, trash them, use them as stamps to paint with, or throw them in the dishwasher to sanitize and reuse next time you travel. Qisc iLH Colorful Multi-Purpose Durable Lightweight Kitchen Cleaning Sponges, 5x3x1-Inch, Pack of 7
    4. Color Wonder markers, stamps, and paper are amazing for travel, even if they are a little more pricey than normal crayons and coloring books. They don’t work on anything except the special paper so you don’t have to worry about your toddler drawing on the bulkhead or scribbling on the wall of your hotel room. Crayola Finding Dory Color Wonder Stamper & Paper Set
    5. Wiki Stix are somewhere between a craft and a toy. They’re bendable, shapeable, little sticks (picture a piece of yarn coated in wax) that you can use to form whatever your imagination can conjure. Talk about the colors. Use them to form shapes, numbers or letters. Make your munchkin a funny pair of glasses or form them into cups and have a tea party.  Wikki Stix Party Favor Pak, Pack of 15 Molding & Sculpting Sticks
    6. Small cars make good travel toys because your toddler can drive them all over the place and you can make up stories about where the people inside them are going. Just don’t use favorite ones they would lose their mind over misplacing. Dazzling Toys 2″ Pull Back & Let Go Racer Cars – Pack of 12 Cars – Assorted Car Colors- Great Christmas Gift Idea
    7. A roll of painter’s tape can be an invaluable travel toy. Use it as a novel way to form shapes and letters on the tray table or window. Make a cool tic tac toe board and use pocket change as your game pieces. Form roads for the toy cars to drive on. Fold it and use it to make jewelry. Use it to cover the electrical outlet holes in your hotel room once you arrive or create a “do not cross” line to set boundaries in an unfamiliar place… so many options here! Duck Brand Clean Release Painter’s Tape, Single Roll, 0.94 in. x 60 yd., Blue (240193)
    8. Board books are always a great addition to your travel bag. Read them of course, but you can also play I Spy with them, point out colors, count things… lots of ways to keep busy with a book and then you will have it with you for bedtime once you reach your destination. This is one of our favorites! I Love You, Stinky Face
    9. Animal finger puppets can be another entertaining idea. Make up stories or sing songs about them. Bring along a book featuring the same animals as your puppets and use them in unison for maximum fun. Rhode Island Novelty Zoo Animal Finger Puppets 1-Dozen
    10. Lastly, we always take an inflatable beach ball when we travel. It can be partially inflated and used as a travel pillow on the plane in a pinch, but it’s primary purpose is providing a safe and efficient way to let off some energy before or after the flight. We’ve been known to toss ours around in an empty area of the airline terminal while waiting to board a flight. Intex Inflatable Beach Ball

Got another genius idea for keeping kiddos occupied on a plane? Tell us in the comments! And if you think we’re insane for even making an attempt at flying with a toddler, check out this post!