The Proverbial Traveller
Got plans to get out of Dodge yet? Whether it’s a ‘winter’s almost over but it seems like it will never end’ getaway or a ‘must visit Grandma for Easter’ trip’, we have a feeling that planes, trains or automobiles (or some combination thereof) are in your future.
A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step (packing of course). So take our proverbial advice and check out some of our old faves and new recommendations to make your travels more of a break this spring.
On a long journey, even a straw weighs heavy (never mind an exersaucer). So book your gear to be there when you arrive with baby equipment rentals from Wee Travel or One Tiny Suitcase who offer clean, safe, brand-name baby equipment delivered right to your destination.
Now, while he who travels light, travels fast, a few carefully chosen accessories to bring along on your road trip can make the whole thing that much savvier.
If you lose your way it is better to ask and feel a fool for five minutes than not ask and remain a fool for the rest of your life. OK, that was meant for someone else in your life, but since you’re going to be heading out on that long car trip, we suggest you review our reader contributions for keeping sane in the car. From the right timing to the right games, it will help you manage the ‘Are we there yet’s’ from driveway to driveway.
Good company on the road is the shortest cut. We couldn’t agree more, and that’s why we always travel with Dan. No one else manages to go the musical distance on the ‘parents AND kids like him’ factor.
The journey is the reward. True enough when you’re a grown-up and can relax and read magazines the whole way there, but for most kids, they need a little more than that. To keep the kids entertained on our next flight, we’re counting on the new ideal-for-travel Educo Bead Frame Maze (we like Go Fish Go but there are others, $12.95, age 2 and up) which uses a magnetic wand to guide colourful marbles through a sturdy maze and the Imaginetics magnetic play boards (age 3 and up, from $5.95) which are available in a wide range of scenes from an airport to a magical fairy forest (and of course there’s Bob and Barbie).
Venture all; see what fate brings. Actually, we have to disagree with that proverb. We’re not that into flying by the seat of our pants when it comes to flying. Preparation for the trip and anticipation of your children’s needs is of the essence when you’re cooped up inside any kind of vehicle for a period of time. So refresh your memory on what our Scouts had to say on this topic. A quick wardrobe change and ear plugs for your neighbours is very sound advice, if we do say so ourselves.
Have a good trip!