Thursday, July 10, 2008

South Pacific

I need HELP! We are traveling to Hawaii with our 10 month old son in a few weeks. We are excited, of course, but I'm starting to get quite worried about traveling with my little busy boy (please see previous post for evidence). Considering we have traveled so much as a couple, it is amazing we made it this far into Jacob's life without getting on a plane with him.

I need every one's tips, tricks, packing lists, and itineraries. email me or leave comments.

I can't wait to see what's up your sleeves, and I know I'll be much more at ease armed with good advice.

6 comments:

Lydia said...

Sara,
I have done a lot of traveling with Owen and Lylian. I would walk them around as much as possible at the airport, and I have used the back pack leash thing with Owen because I didn't want to loose him. I packed a diaper bag with a few new toys, treats, books, play do and a booklet of stickers. He loved the stickers; that kept him going for at least 30 minutes. Then I just pulled out new stuff when times called for it. I have heard of people medicating their kids before flight but I haven't ever done so. Just before landing I try to get them to eat or drink something so their ears pop. You know your son better then anyone, just load up on stuff he is interested in. Pray before you leave :) that always helps.
Love,
Lydia

Amanda said...

I would just plan on walking up and down the aisles a lot. And bring as much food that he can snack on as possible - great distraction. Other than that - good luck. It's really not too bad.

Anonymous said...

I spent 5 months in Hawaii when Alex was little and it was awesome. Some obvious necessities: sunscreen, water shirt. It's pretty hot this time of year, so I would have breathable clothing. If you have a jogging stroller you can't leave home without it. They are perfect on the sandy beaches. And hiking.... there are beautiful hikes in Hawaii. My big question is where in Hawaii will you be going? If you are in Oahu, there are a lot of grand things to do. You can hike Makapuu lighthouse, go see the Polynesian Cultural Center, Check out the Northshore and watch the surfers on the Banzai pipeline. That in itself is fun. There's the Laie Temple. One of my favorite places is called Valley of the Temples. It's in a beautiful part of the island. They have a replica of a Buddhist temple. It's serene, calm, and beautiful. Have a great trip. Oh, are you flying out of LAX? IF you are, check as much baggage as possible. Traveling through there to Hawaii is pretty tiring with kids and all the things you have to pack. Allow yourself a lot of time to get to your gate.

Sara said...

Thanks everyone...and keep them coming. We are traveling to Maui direct from Seattle. I'm debating on getting a frame back pack carrier. Any opinions? I would love to say we hike a lot, but the last 2 years have been hike-less for us. But the hikes in Maui sounds so great.....do we get the back pack for one week of use?

Kimberly said...

In my experience, you are at a great age to travel with him. Once they start walking, until about 2.5, it's a little more challenging. Something that worked for me on the plane was to take the carseat (in a backpack) in case we could take it on the plane. My babies LOVE their carseat and sleep great in moving vehicles so it was always so much easier when we had a seat for them.

Lots of finger foods, liquids to drink during takeoff, and books and any other distractions you can think of that you know he will like.

You'll all do great! I am SOOOO jealous you're going to Hawaii. I have always wanted to go there!

Mother 25 - 8 said...

Sara, HAWAII?!?!? Jealous of you!! Good advice from your friends. I'd add ... pray for a nice neighbor. :) Snacks and walking up and down, great ideas!