BFB's Top Buys for Stress-Free Travel
Erin and I have done a whole lot of travelling since she was born and here are a few things I've found to be life-savers, plus a couple of suggestions from travel editors who are mums...
1. The Hipseat for Under 3s/Trunki for Over 3s - Saves trying to push strollers AND luggage trolleys at airports. The former is recommended by the Deputy Travel Editor of The Times newspaper who frequently travels with her toddler son and the latter by BFB's own Erin Williams who loves her Trunki (see the range at www.trunki.co.uk) at home or in the airport! Buy either from www.hippychick.com quote BFBH08 and get 10% off!
2. Anti-Mosquito™ Wipes - Uses Chinese Eucalyptus instead of DEET but has been proven to be just as effective in field tests. Safe for pregant women and children, even newborns. Comes in handy five-tissue packs, cost £4.99 and each wipe can be used up to 10 times.
3. Lindam Microwave Steam Steriliser Packs/Cold Water Steriliser Bags from JoJo Maman Bebe- both take up hardly any room in a suitcase and ensure safe bottle sterilising anywhere.
4. 'Fold and Go Mini Changing Mat' £9.99 from Blooming Marvellous- Wonderfully compact changing mat with two fold out pockets which hold three nappies and a re-usable case for wipes. It even fits into an average size handbag so no need to lug a separate changing bag onto a flight.
5. Pashmina - Saves adding a blanket to you hand luggage. Wear it as a scarf at the airport and wrap it around your baby/toddler on the plane - can also provide clothing protection when dealing with a travel sick child.
6. Little Life Toddler Backpack £14.99 from Blooming Marvellous -Perfect for parents and toddlers who aren't keen on reins but value an extra level of safety when travelling in busy unfamilar places. A single, detachable rein clips on to a small back pack worn by the child, which could easily hold wipes and a nappy plus a toy or snack.
7. Music Scarf £11.00 from JoJo Maman Bebe - Perfect for plane journeys and holidays. Stimulation scarf that features ribbon tags, squeaker, rattle and music to keep babies occupied when sitting on a parent's lap. Includes a clip to attach small rattles or toys that prevents them failing on the floor or getting lost when on the move.
