| Traveling with your Toddler |
| Written by Stephanie Frith - Coastal Baby Rentals, NJ | |||
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It’s a tricky business, traveling with kids. And their travel needs change dramatically from year to year as they grow, making it difficult for the parents who want to ensure their children are comfortable while away from home. When my daughter was an infant, I rented everything I could not fit into my carry on bag. The full-size crib, the bedding, pack-n-plays, exersaucers, car seats, high chairs, play mats, safety gates, strollers… You name it, I have probably rented it. Once my daughter hit the official toddler stage this past winter, I was unsure of exactly how to proceed when making our way from New Jersey to California. She was not a baby anymore, so what was going to be necessary to rent? What I found was that some key pieces were still amazingly helpful, while others I simply did not need anymore. First, and most importantly, the sleeping arrangements. Some toddlers are still in a crib at home, as is my daughter, but her nephew is in a toddler bed. So I rented the crib, but my nephew was able to sleep in a twin bed with rented bed rails – a nice compromise. Some rental companies even offer regular toddler beds or a less expensive option, an aero-toddler bed, which have special sides ensuring your child does not roll off onto the floor in the night. Second, I concentrated on other essentials like the car seat and stroller, and if you are flying, check with your airline on what additional charges may apply when bringing these items along. I personally found it easier to leave the car seat at home and have one waiting for me on the other end. Most rental companies will work with you on getting it to your destination so you have it upon landing. Other items I found helpful was renting some age-appropriate toys to have something new and interesting to help keep them occupied in their temporary location, as well as booster seats for meal time. Lastly, when traveling with a child of any age, I always make sure to create a travel backpack, and fill it with all new items they have never seen before. A trip to Target or Walmart to buy new crayons, coloring books, puzzles, special snacks, one or two new DVD’s, some figurines, whatever your child is particularly fond of – really helps during a long (or short!) flight or drive.
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