The Luggage Blog

Toddlers/Pre-School:

• Always Bring One Extra Outfit…because you just never know.
• Use gum or chewy candy (ex: gummy worms/bears) for older children and mints for younger children to chew during take off and landing for the pressure in their ears
• Recommend not bringing your child’s favorite toys on plane just in case they get lost.
• SURPRISE: Fill up a bag of goodies from the $ store.  Don’t let the children see or play with them until you are on the plane.
  • It will keep their interest because it’s new and different.
  • You could even wrap the toys to “buy” you a little more time.
  • If you forget any of these on the plane, don’t worry it was only a $1.
• What to Buy:
  • Stickers, crayons, coloring books, play-doh, party favors, bubbles, silly putty, etc…(things to keep hands busy).
  • But don’t buy toys that make noise…your seatmates will hate you!

Babies/Infants:

• While taking off and landing give the baby a pacifier, bottle or nurse them and this should elevate any ear pressure problems that may occur.
• With very young infants do take the time to get on the plane early and get settled.
• Ask for the bulk head.  You will want/need the extra leg room.  Some airlines do have bassinets that can be secured to the wall (international).
• Mothers tend to over pack, but unless your baby spits up a lot or makes messes in their diaper often, don’t pack more than necessary!  It will take up too much space and you will be the one who needs to carry it around.
• An Extra outfit and onesies in your diaper bag should do the trick along with what you normally pack.
• Babybjorn/slings will be your best friend…they will keep your baby close and your hands free!

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By now you’ve probably heard of  the list of fees for checking your luggage.  So now your trying to figure out “How to get it all in one carry-on”? Well, here are some helpful tips:

 1) Prepare

• Make a packing list, then try to cross off half of it!
• Be realistic. Think about where your headed and rule out anything that you won’t need.
• Use a less structured bag (Ex: a bag with flexible fabric or without a frame) 

2) Pack Less

• Sure those heels make your legs look longer, but they’re hard on your feet. Stick to one pair of comfortable shoes.
• Wear your bulkiest pair of shoes to save space.
• Use travel size bottles…which of course takes up less room.
• Remove interior accessories from suitcase that are not needed…such as suiter sleeve.
• Think 2-in-1. Get yourself a pair of convertible pants-to-shorts and that’s one less thing to worry about.
• Use ExOfficio buzz-off clothes so you don’t need to pack bug spray.
• Also use ExOfficio undergarments…they air dry within hours. You can wash as you go, so you only need one pair!
• Pack crushable hats (Ex: Wallaroo) and travel jackets (Ex: UBU) Both are a must!

3) Pack Smart

• Color coordinate your accessories to match all outfits
• Use the space inside of your shoes to pack belts, socks or other accessories.
• Use Packing Folders …they keep you organized, wrinkle free and compress air..which takes up the most space.
• If you use an Expandable suitcase, pack it full expanded, then sit on it and crush it and zip it back shut! This will eliminate any extra space.

Photo by Decor8

Traveling green isn’t as difficult as you might think… in fact it could be as simple as a walk in the park!  Here are some tips on ways you can travel eco-friendly.  (We promise they’re not all that corny!)

1. Visit A Green Location

• Travel to a walkable city
• Go on a camping or hiking trip
• Visit National Wildlife sites or National Parks
• Visit one of the 7 US Eco-Travel Destinations

2. Stay at a Green Hotel

Some hotels offer free parking for hybrids, use energy efficient light bulbs and appliances, and even provide space for Eco organizations.  For more information, check out American’s 10 most Green Hotels

3. Travel Locally

• Reduce fuel consumption (and save on fuel costs)
• Eat and drink locally and support businesses that don’t import food

4. Use Green Modes of Transportation

• Drive, don’t fly
• Take a bus or train
• Rent a hybrid
• If you do fly, be sure to [Read more →]