Taking Home on the Road
ask an expert: travellingcanada
(May.18.10)
What items can I bring on vacation to make a hotel or new environment more comfortable and feel more like home for my child?
Shari H. emailed us at expert@sweetspot.ca, and the travel experts at Wee Travel, answered;
Children love exploring new places, so don’t fret too much about how your child will react to a new environment. Remember, children take their cues from parents, so if you are relaxed, they will be to. That being said, there are a few things you can toss into your suitcase that can help make the more challenging times like eating and sleeping a little more peaceful for you both.
- Sleep time: Pack your child’s favourite blanket, stuffed animal, and anything small from their bed that will make the transition to sleeping in a new environment more familiar. If travelling by plane or train, be sure to pack their “can’t-live-without” teddy in your carry-on in case you and your luggage arrive at different times.
- Music: If your child has a favourite sleep CD, bring that along. Music is a great way to block out the unfamiliar sounds from the hallway, air conditioner, etc. and may help your child fall asleep more easily.
- Meal time: Some hotels don’t have kid-sized cutlery which can make eating a challenge. A sippy cup, bowl, plate or utensils that your child is familiar with are all easy enough to bring along.
- Request a fridge: Many hotels can provide a small fridge in your room upon request. Stock it with the same foods that you feed your child at home. This is not necessarily the best time to introduce something new!
- Set a routine: During the first couple of days, try to keep to the same routine you do at home. Even though the surroundings will be new, your child may adjust easier if you follow a routine with which they are familiar.
- Consider renting gear: If you feel there are certain things that you and your child just can’t live without but are too large to pack, (think swing or exersaucer) consider renting them. Call your hotel ahead of time and ask them to recommend a baby equipment rental company. Have the company deliver these items to the hotel prior to your arrival. Ask them to deliver some toys, too. Children love having new things to play with. Most companies will even provide diapers and wipes so you can free up more space in your suitcase for that extra pair of shoes (for you).
Wee Travel launched in Vancouver in 2005 as Canada's first baby equipment rental company. The company has now expanded to Toronto and Victoria. Started by two sisters, Lesley and Shana Cherry, the purpose is make it easy for parents to travel lighter by providing the full range of hard-to-pack baby necessities.
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