Before having my little one, I considered myself to be an avid traveler. While I thought I had traveling down to a science, the transition into traveling for two became an entirely different animal. I found myself over packing, forgetting important items, and having to prep for flights two days in advance. I had so many questions even for the simplest of outings to the more demanding ones. What kind of bag do I need? What should I pack? What airline should we fly? Hopefully, this page will help you with what you need to make sure both baby and mom travel comfortably.
AIRPORT TRAVEL WITH CLEAR
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I got to the airport a little earlier than I expected too for a cross-country flight. While in the route I came across a CLEAR station. With my constant travel and the concept of faster travel, I figured registering for the program would be a good idea. I know some may not be familiar with CLEAR but have no fear, the educator is here lol.
CLEAR is found at over 60 airports and stadiums. The process takes a matter of minutes to register, so it’s faster than the TSA Pre-Check registration method. You skip standard lines and make your way through the escorted CLEAR section where your finger or eye is scanned in place of your ID. Yes, you get a personal escort to the security checkpoint. It’s about $180 to register, and if you’re flying with children (18 and under), they skip lines with you. CLEAR saves me so much time and the need to furnish my ID. |
CLEAR is a cheaper alternative to TSA Pre-Check and doesn’t require an appointment. You still need to remove your shoes, jacket, electronics, and liquids from bags. This process only allows you to skip lines at the airport. It is compatible with TSA Pre-Check, and you can skip the TSA Pre-Check line with CLEAR. If you’re looking to maximize convenience, I recommend the combination of CLEAR and TSA Pre-Check.
AIRPORT TRAVEL WITH MULTIPLE CHILDREN
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Traveling with one child can be a handful, but two is an entirely different ball game. I travel frequently, and even the shortest flights with children leave you in need of therapy, a bottle of wine, and longing for those 10-hour naps you had the opportunity to take before procreation. By now, I've become a professional Mommy traveler. I fold double strollers up with one hand and can make it through a security checkpoint in a matter of minutes. What's my secret? The following are some acquired tips to make it through your multiple toddlers traveling experience.
The first thing I learned the hard way is that airlines will not reimburse you for ANY damage to checked strollers or car seats. Bringing along your most prized and expensive baby equipment is not a good idea. I recommend finding a functional, safe, and cheap travel system. That stroller and timing trick I mentioned… well it's not a trick lol I purchased a REASONABLY priced stroller and car seat off Amazon in addition to taking advantage of airport amenities. |
I own both a Peg Perego Primo Viaggio and a Maxi Cosi Pria 85 car seat and swear by them. The downfall of the two is the weight and price. My airport alternative is el cheapo COSTCO car seat. It is probably the most lightweight car seat on the market. It is easy to install and extends the storage for multiple seats. I have two that I stack and place in a single airport approved bag for checking.
The Phantom Baby Trend Sit N Stand Ultra Tandem Stroller is my miracle stroller! At under $100 you can't go wrong with this item. An infant can either be placed in their car seat or sit in the standard chair, while a toddler sits or stands on the tandem portion. There are a ton of cup holders (5 to be exact) throughout and my big boy still feels like a big boy while cursing around the airport. Not only does The Phantom fold in minutes, but this stroller is also lightweight, glides smoothly, and has a storage compartment to fit your diaper bag or a backpack.
Which leads me into my next travel ramble about bags. Since the beginning of time, females have collected an assortment of bags, and I'm no different. I have about six diaper bags which is nothing to brag about and a little embarrassing. As an apparent self-proclaimed diaper bag lady, you may wonder should I carry a tote or a backpack? I love being able to reach into my tote and grab whatever I need. However, hauling a bag over my shoulder, carrying my one-year-old, while my three-year-old tries to break free like a shotgun went off starting the New York Marathon is not functional.
When I travel, I opt for a backpack because there are no worries about things falling out when I bend over. A backpack also gives you the full use of hands and doesn't restrict movements. Being able to use my hands means I can control my Rug Rats and prevent my daughter from throwing her cup at a random stranger. *side note her aim is as incredible as my Mami with her chancleta*
If you are traveling with an infant and prefer a carrier, I found a fantastic baby carrier! The Soft Sling All Carry with Hip Seat 360 Positions Erogonomic Baby Carrier not only safely carries your little one, but it contains a storage space that doubles as a sitting platform. You can place diapers, wipes, bottles, and more in the storage compartment. I use this whenever a stroller is not permitted. There are snaps and supports to make it easier on your back.
The Phantom Baby Trend Sit N Stand Ultra Tandem Stroller is my miracle stroller! At under $100 you can't go wrong with this item. An infant can either be placed in their car seat or sit in the standard chair, while a toddler sits or stands on the tandem portion. There are a ton of cup holders (5 to be exact) throughout and my big boy still feels like a big boy while cursing around the airport. Not only does The Phantom fold in minutes, but this stroller is also lightweight, glides smoothly, and has a storage compartment to fit your diaper bag or a backpack.
Which leads me into my next travel ramble about bags. Since the beginning of time, females have collected an assortment of bags, and I'm no different. I have about six diaper bags which is nothing to brag about and a little embarrassing. As an apparent self-proclaimed diaper bag lady, you may wonder should I carry a tote or a backpack? I love being able to reach into my tote and grab whatever I need. However, hauling a bag over my shoulder, carrying my one-year-old, while my three-year-old tries to break free like a shotgun went off starting the New York Marathon is not functional.
When I travel, I opt for a backpack because there are no worries about things falling out when I bend over. A backpack also gives you the full use of hands and doesn't restrict movements. Being able to use my hands means I can control my Rug Rats and prevent my daughter from throwing her cup at a random stranger. *side note her aim is as incredible as my Mami with her chancleta*
If you are traveling with an infant and prefer a carrier, I found a fantastic baby carrier! The Soft Sling All Carry with Hip Seat 360 Positions Erogonomic Baby Carrier not only safely carries your little one, but it contains a storage space that doubles as a sitting platform. You can place diapers, wipes, bottles, and more in the storage compartment. I use this whenever a stroller is not permitted. There are snaps and supports to make it easier on your back.
Balancing Being a Traveling Activist and a Mother
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My name is YoNasDa Lonewolf. I am an enrolled tribal member of the Oglala Lakota Sioux tribe and an African American woman. I am a national organizer, activist, and most importantly a mother.
I organized events such as Hip Hop 4 Haiti, Hip Hop 4 Flint, and most recently Hip Hop 4 The People where over 30 cities collectively participated in a fundraising event on the same day. I was on the executive planning committee for the 20th anniversary of the Million Man March: Justice or Else and the Millions More Movement. I was apart of the Standing Rock #NoDapl protest. As well as actively involved in stopping police brutality through events #BmoreYouthRise, National Stop the Killing, and National Stop Police Brutality Weekend in Atlanta, GA. This is just a small amount of work I do nationally to bring freedom, justice, and equality. You may be wondering how I find time as a mother of a 16-year-old and 6-year-old son to be so involved in community advance and enhancement? Well...... it’s not easy. |
My late mother Wauneta Lonewolf was a Native American motivational speaker, healer, and activist. While I was in her womb she walked from San Francisco to Washington DC during the American Indian Movements, “The Longest Walk”. She gave birth to me in Washington DC. As an adolescence I recall the FBI trailing her to determine if she would participate in illegal activities. As a mother she kept us close as we relocated from state to state. She would teach me Lakota stories and about our culture. We would sit amongst grandmothers that would educate me on how to respect the people and the land. I would sit amongst revolutionary leaders such as The Hon. Minister Louis Farrakhan, Chief Ernie Longwalker, Dick Gregory, and others to receive real news from the ones who created it. Prior to my mother being sentenced to prison as a political prisoner, I was able to enroll in public school. My mother raised my brother and me to be very independent. Independent in our thinking and actions. We never went to bed hungry. We always were surrounded by a village of people that cared for us. I played with other children whose parents were also freedom fighters, so we never felt out of place.
Have I turned into my mother? When my mother was released from prison she began to work within Indigenous communities on alcohol, drug, and gang prevention programs. She traveled a lot but balanced motherhood and her work with ease. My brother and I attended her events working by her side whether selling merchandise, helping with stage production or running sweat lodge ceremonies. I believe I’m so similar to her because my sons are always with me during protests, whether defending Dreamers or in Standing Rock fighting against Energy Transfer and oil pipelines. Most Monday mornings my sons have interesting answers to, “what did you do over the weekend?” They watch the news and are able to say “I was there!” They are able to see the headlines in real life. As a mother, I never put my sons in harm's way. When we attend a protest they know to stay close to me. We establish an escape plan just in case the police begins to spray tear gas or shoot rubber bullets. It sounds scary but as African American males, it’s more frightening when they walk to the store and could be attacked because of their skin color. Attending protests they are able to exercise freedom of speech and stand for injustice in solidarity for the families of Trayvon Martin, Tamir Rice, and Mike Brown Jr. My sons learn to use their voice alongside their Mexican classmates that are presently being forced back to Mexico, a land they know nothing about. They are able to pray and use their voice against oil pipelines intruding on our ancestral lands. I’m teaching my boys to stand for truth, their truth! In a world where democracy is becoming slim, I have to make sure that my sons know how to exercise their freedoms.
Have I turned into my mother? When my mother was released from prison she began to work within Indigenous communities on alcohol, drug, and gang prevention programs. She traveled a lot but balanced motherhood and her work with ease. My brother and I attended her events working by her side whether selling merchandise, helping with stage production or running sweat lodge ceremonies. I believe I’m so similar to her because my sons are always with me during protests, whether defending Dreamers or in Standing Rock fighting against Energy Transfer and oil pipelines. Most Monday mornings my sons have interesting answers to, “what did you do over the weekend?” They watch the news and are able to say “I was there!” They are able to see the headlines in real life. As a mother, I never put my sons in harm's way. When we attend a protest they know to stay close to me. We establish an escape plan just in case the police begins to spray tear gas or shoot rubber bullets. It sounds scary but as African American males, it’s more frightening when they walk to the store and could be attacked because of their skin color. Attending protests they are able to exercise freedom of speech and stand for injustice in solidarity for the families of Trayvon Martin, Tamir Rice, and Mike Brown Jr. My sons learn to use their voice alongside their Mexican classmates that are presently being forced back to Mexico, a land they know nothing about. They are able to pray and use their voice against oil pipelines intruding on our ancestral lands. I’m teaching my boys to stand for truth, their truth! In a world where democracy is becoming slim, I have to make sure that my sons know how to exercise their freedoms.
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There are times my sons are unable to accompany me. In those instances, I have a strong support system of family and close friends. My 16-year old’s father and I have a great co-parenting relationship. We work together to make sure our son becomes a bright and educated man that will contribute positively to society. My 6-year-old loves school and even though he can dance, sing, rap, and act, he loves attending protests. He wants to be an astronaut.
We go on family vacations. We have discussions on politics and I challenge them to research deeper into the worldly news. Being a single mother and an activist isn’t easy but because of my mother who made it look easy, I believe she taught me the same balance. They both tell me they are proud of me and at the end of the day, that’s all that matters. |
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Cool Things To Do
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Recently I had my niece and nephew visit with me. During their visit, I had the task of finding interesting activities to do with them. I thought about ways to entertain that included things for toddlers to do. I came up with a listing of some pretty neat things to do no matter where you are located.
Running around with two toddlers we managed to have a ball doing the following top 4: Splash Pad- I discovered several places that had some cool splash pads. Splash Pads were free in most locations! This was an excellent way to not only cool off in the summertime heat but extended a safe means to have our little boys play with water. The Splash pad also wore them out, and they were ready for a nap shortly after we got home. Aquarium- I have been taking Tre to the aquarium since he was an infant, but as a toddler, he loves this place (except the penguins, he hates them lol). Aquariums usually supply in door exhibits and interactive experiences. There are tons of displays and typically a food court to provide down time to relax and eat. |
Mall- We did a little shopping with the boys, but they didn’t complain. Aside from picking up some things we let them get on rides (they were unbothered lol), grabbed ice cream, and saw puppies (the mall we went to had a pet store).
Park- So we didn’t go to a park because I managed to create one in my backyard. Our little ones loved playing on the slide, being pushed on the swing, riding the roller coaster, playing in the sand, and finally making a mess of themselves on the water table. Once again this activity led to some heavy sleeping.
Park- So we didn’t go to a park because I managed to create one in my backyard. Our little ones loved playing on the slide, being pushed on the swing, riding the roller coaster, playing in the sand, and finally making a mess of themselves on the water table. Once again this activity led to some heavy sleeping.
Still looking for more things to do to keep your little one busy? Try these activities!
Pool - Zoo - Museum - Science - Center - Movies - Story Time
Feel free to make and add more suggestions!
Pool - Zoo - Museum - Science - Center - Movies - Story Time
Feel free to make and add more suggestions!
What diaper bag is right for you?
Bags, Bags, & More BagsIn the quest for the most convenient ways to haul all the newly acquired items that a mom must have, I have gone on a complete search to try to find my perfect diaper bag. Forsaking your cute little clutches and arm bags for a more practical means isn't easy, but if you can get through childbirth everything after is a cakewalk. I started out with a Marc Jacobs diaper bag; next, I went on to create my diaper bag using an oversized Nieman Marcus tote with an insert, to finally throwing in the towel and sagging a backpack.
The perfect diaper bag will differ from person to person and even occasion. Are you catching a flight with your little one? Maybe you're simply having a lunch date with friends or hitting a concert, each of these events can solicit a particular diaper bag. |
What should be in my diaper bag?
Items for Everyday TravelThe following is the listing of contents I presently keep stocked in my diaper bag.
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Traveling? What should I pack?
Mary Poppins Like PackingAside from carrying your diaper bag trying to determine what should be in your luggage can be overwhelming. Everything including the kitchen sink will seem appealing and just as important. This list will take the guessing out of packing and give you some ideas about what to carry on, what to check, and in general what to pack. Feel free to download the checklist and mark the items off as you pack for your little one.
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Top Road Trip Needs!
Hitting the road seems simple enough until you have to include a small child. I can admit I’m completely nosey and have to know what is going on with my little guy at all times. I can also admit that my son is a tad spoiled and demanding refusing to be left alone. I should also mention that I created this adorable little monster and I can’t stand to hear or see him cry; it hurts my heart. With all that I have to declare, you know driving has turned into somewhat of a challenge for me. The below items have saved my driving life!
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Ever want eyes in the back of your head during traveling to see what baby is doing? The BRICA Baby In-Sight Soft Touch Auto Mirror are perfect for letting mom keep track of what's going on with their rear-facing baby in the car. It has wide-angles, convex surface, this car mirror gives you a full view of your precious cargo. This mirror is shatter-proof safe and comfortable to handle. Four attachment options and a traction grid material help you secure the mirror to any vehicle. Wipe clean.
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The BRICA Smart Shade™ blends into your car's interior while maximizing top to bottom window shade coverage. The new, slim design mounts to the window sill and automatically rolls up up with the window to the top of the window! The Smart Shade helps block the glare that kids really fuss about. It's ready to use and easy to install.
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Bright Starts Take Along Toy Bar keeps baby entertained on the go and stimulates imagination with fun activities, interesting lights and melodies. The Toy Bar attaches to most standard infant carriers. Tre loves this item and it saves my life during short and long road trips!
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Have you ever needed an extra hand bottle feeding your baby (or babies if you have twins, triplets, or multiples) but became frustrated propping the baby bottle with pillows or toys that never stayed in position? The BeBe Bottle Sling is designed to hang from any infant car seat handle while holding the bottle at the correct position for hands free bottle feeding. **Some children have choked while using this product. Please supervise child during use.
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Baby and Kid Friendly Airlines
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Some airlines make it a point to cater to the traveling family. I fly every other weekend with my little one and I definitely noticed the small differences. Some airlines make traveling simple and cost efficient, while others could care less.
I have complied a listing of airlines that provide the best benefits for traveling mothers. I have taken into consideration cost, mobility, and advantages. |
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SouthWest is my new favorite airline to fly due to Family Boarding and open seating. Family boarding occurs right after A class boarding. Children under two fly free and you can ask if a flight is full. If a flight is not full, your child under two may get their own seat. They prvide free gate checking of strollers (with no weight limit on strollers). There is also no fee to check carseats or strollers during baggage claim. Bonus is if you are pregnant they may elevate your boarding to Pre-Boarding which means first pick of seating.
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I travel Delta second to Southwest because I have found it to be the second most family friendly airline! Delta provides immediate boarding for families with infants and small children. Those extra minutes to break down strollers and install car seats are valuable! Delta additionally allows for the free checking of strollers and car seats. The only thing I don't like is the stroller weight requirement. If you plan on carting your little one around be sure to do so in a stroller under 30lbs.
I used to prefer flying American Airlines. They extend the free checking of strollers and carseats like Delta but unfortunately they leave early boarding to only First Class ticket holders. I had an issue with several Flight Attendants not being the friendliest when asking for little things like hot water to fill a bottle.
Traveling Mom Hacks
I don’t think non-parents or Dad’s (lol) understand how difficult it is to travel with an infant or toddler. The airport was an obstacle course that over months I managed to master. Installing car seats only to dissemble 15 minutes later to check. Weaving through the fabric barriers getting to the ticket agent. Every time I had to go through security, I envisioned that Japanese Human Tetris Game Show as I folded up Tre’s stroller for the x-ray. The joys of being stopped and fondled because my son’s premade formula warranted a pat down along with an explosives check. While I can’t protect you from the stated, I can help make airport traveling a little easier. Below are some helpful items for traveling with your mini.
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Baby Trend Snap-N-Go GX Universal Infant Car Seat Carrier allows your child to go from the car to the stroller without leaving his or her car seat. With a two-cup holder parent tray that features a covered storage compartment, you can keep what you need at hand. The convenient one-hand fold design makes the stroller easy to collapse and store. The adjustable handle offers comfortable use, and the rear wheels with brakes help ensure a smooth ride.
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The Similac Advance Ready-to-Feed 8 fl. oz. is ready for travel on the road or in the air. All you have to do is place an existing nipple to feed your little one. I find that this is the easiest way to feed Tre as I go between breast and bottle feeding on the go.
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An iPad is the most handy tool as a mother travels! Entertain the kids, pull up boarding passes, check flight information, snap a few pictures, get directions, and now with the new Apple update you can receive text messages.
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