Kona Hawaii
Traveling with a toddler while pregnant can feel over whelming. We made the decision to go on a family vacation in the coming weeks. We have traveled to more local areas with our toddler in the car but this time we are traveling to Hawaii. This is a whole new ball game for us. I have done my fair share of reading different travel blogs in preparation but to be honest it got a bit overwhelming. We are already spending a pretty penny on the vacation itself so spending MORE money on things just for travel seemed like a lot. However, there are some important take aways I have found will be most useful.
During the plane ride, a variety of snacks is a necessity. I will list out what I am personally bringing shortly. Next, entertainment is important especially on longer flights. Since this is about a 5 hour and 40 minute flight you have to have some options. I personally do not recommend going overboard with the entertainment. Remember, yes it can be stressful traveling with young kids but they are just that, kids. You can plan all the activities you want, but they may not all be useful. Everyone likes to cast judgement on parents for bringing their young kids on a plane, when in reality, it’s no one else’s business! Simple activities that will be exciting for your child but don’t weigh down your carry on should suffice!
Activities for toddler during travel time.
Some of the activities I intend to bring include coloring books & crayons, note pads and tons of stickers, new books!, some flash cards, and the iPad. I am not usually one for a ton of screen time but for special occasions like this, sometime it’s necessary! If your child is really into books try getting some new books they’ve never seen before. Don’t let them see them before hand that way it’s extra exciting on the plane. My son LOVES stickers right now so tons of new stickers will be a great distraction. As for the IPad, i plan to download all the cars movies, He is very into cars lately and that should help if we are really in a pinch to keep him busy. The best part is, aside from the iPad, you can get all of these from the dollar store! Budget friendly and they wont weigh down your carry on.
Snacks for toddler during travel time.
I have read many moms say to pack all the fun snacks to keep them happy. I do agree, however, I am currently working to make non-toxic changes around my house. So I will be packing simple mills crackers and bars. Made good granola bites, they aren’t perfect but are much better than most. Purely Elizabeth is even better. Heavenly hunks as a cookie alternative, Yum earth goodies for something more exciting. Almonds and cashews for a simple snack and chomps beef sticks for something filling. My son also loves the That’s it bars, they have minis which is the perfect portion size for him! Some spinach muffins for breakfast that morning since it’s an early flight and that’s it! I want to bring exciting snacks but also things that wont leave him feeling crappy and cranky on the plane. Always read ingredients before you buy!
Pregnancy Must Haves.
For me personally I will bring my wedge pillows for sleep. My skin care items such as a bellly oil and belly butter. ALL the dresses to be comfortable when we are just cursing the island. Maternity shorts an biker shorts for any (easy) hiking/walking. Plenty of comfy t shirts for both sleep and lounging. Maternity swimsuit for laying on the beach along with a light weight cover-up. Depending how far along you are, a belly band and comfortable walking shoes! Sports bras for comfort, regular bras for dressing up. Pregnancy safe sunscreen and a good hat for the sun. And don’t forget your prenatal vitamins!
Packing for my two year old.
We started potty training a couple months ago and we go about 99% of the time with no accidents but they still happen on occasion. However, he asks to use the potty most of the time now so a travel potty for the car and a travel seat for the toilet felt like a must. I have pull-ups for the plane ride there and back just in case. I bought him more underwear for possible accidents while out exploring the island and I bought some extra pairs of shorts so we don’t run out of backups.
Pack what you think is best.
You know your child best. Getting tips from other parents is great to see what worked out for them but in reality you know best. What works for some wont always work for others and let’s be honest, toddlers can be completely unpredictable especially in new situations. Don’t let the judgement of others around you on the plane stress you out, because there is always at least that ONE person. Do your best to work through it, once that plane lands you can kiss the ground and thankful it’s behind you!