Travelling (by air) with infant twins

[Marie]

My husband and I have always assumed the only way to travel is light: if it
can't be carried on, it ain't needed.

We are now planning our first long distance trip with our baby boys.
Judging by the amount of stuff required for day trips with them, I have the
feeling I am never again going to be able to bypass the luggage retreival
section of the airport :-P

As I begin planning, I'm hoping for some insight from veterans of the travel
adventure:

The scenario: We will be travelling from Toronto, Ontario to Ft.Myers,
Florida in late November or early December. The boys will be 7mos old (5mos
corrected). We are going to visit hubby's grandmother, who is 105yrs old.

The questions:

1. We can either book a direct flight from Toronto, a connecting flight
from Toronto, or a direct flight from Buffalo, NY.

--Is it easier to handle customs at the airport or the border (ie while
driving to Buffalo)?

--What documentation should we have for traveling with the kidlets?

--How easy/difficult is it to handle transfers with two infants?

2. Someone told me that the babies can travel free if we hold them in our
laps. We were planning to take their car seats/carriers anyway (so we don't
have to rent from the car rental company). Someone else told us that most
flights have some seats that have extra leg room where a car seat can rest
on the floor in front of the parent.

--Are both/either of the above statements true?

If so,

--How safe is it to hold babies in your lap during take offs and landings?

--How safe would it be to have a baby in an unrestrained car seat on the
floor?

Also,

--How best to help the babies cope with the pressure changes during the
flight?

--What would you consider *essential* equipment for a two-three hour flight
with babies this age?

3. Toronto will be cold, Ft.Myers will be hot. I always adopt a layering
approach for my clothing and figure I will do the same for the kidlets, but
what should I expect from them regarding their adjusting to a different
climate? How can I make it easier for them?

4. Are they too young for sunscreen? What SPF should I be using?

5. What are the essentials for travelling? I want to have everything we
need, but I'd rather not have to rent a moving van to transport it :-)

6. What questions/concerns am I forgetting to address?

TIA

Marie
Meet the Kidlets at http://ca.f1.pg.photos.yahoo.com/mmcw2

[Julie Seely]

Marie --

We didn't do air travel with the kids until they were 3, so I'm not
qualified to give advice on the traveling-with-babies aspects, except to
say that I would choose a direct flight to minimize air pressure
changes.

As for customs, we are US citizens who live fairly close to the border,
so we have driven through customs quite a lot, and have also flown once
round trip from Montreal to the US on vacation (we're halfway between
Montreal and Boston). Personally, I found it easier to drive through
customs than to go through customs at the airport, as the lines at the
airport seem to be more unpredictable, then of course you have to go
back through again in the car, anyway. Naturally leave yourself extra
time on the way there -- we actually drove to Montreal the night before
our early-morning flight and spent the night in a hotel.

Now for the fine print: As Canadian citizens (you're Canadian, right?),
your experience at the border might be different. Second, the reason we
flew from Montreal in the first place was that the airfare was *much*
cheaper. Third, we live in a very rural area, and have never crossed
the border in an urban area, so maybe lines there are longer. Finally,
we did have one experience crossing into Canada (from Maine to
Campobello Island) where we were pulled aside and the truck was
thoroughly searched -- 45 minutes or so. That, however, was about
twelve years ago, when we were young and unmarried and childless. We
still haven't figured out whether we looked questionable, or happened to
be that lucky xth car that automatically gets scrutinized.

Julie
Mom to Erica & Chris, 07/97

Marie wrote:
>
> My husband and I have always assumed the only way to travel is light: if it
> can't be carried on, it ain't needed.
>
> We are now planning our first long distance trip with our baby boys.
> Judging by the amount of stuff required for day trips with them, I have the
> feeling I am never again going to be able to bypass the luggage retreival
> section of the airport :-P
>
> As I begin planning, I'm hoping for some insight from veterans of the travel
> adventure:
>
> The scenario: We will be travelling from Toronto, Ontario to Ft.Myers,
> Florida in late November or early December. The boys will be 7mos old (5mos
> corrected). We are going to visit hubby's grandmother, who is 105yrs old.
>
> The questions:
>
> 1. We can either book a direct flight from Toronto, a connecting flight
> from Toronto, or a direct flight from Buffalo, NY.
>
> --Is it easier to handle customs at the airport or the border (ie while
> driving to Buffalo)?
>
> --What documentation should we have for traveling with the kidlets?
>
> --How easy/difficult is it to handle transfers with two infants?
>
> 2. Someone told me that the babies can travel free if we hold them in our
> laps. We were planning to take their car seats/carriers anyway (so we don't
> have to rent from the car rental company). Someone else told us that most
> flights have some seats that have extra leg room where a car seat can rest
> on the floor in front of the parent.
>
> --Are both/either of the above statements true?
>
> If so,
>
> --How safe is it to hold babies in your lap during take offs and landings?
>
> --How safe would it be to have a baby in an unrestrained car seat on the
> floor?
>
> Also,
>
> --How best to help the babies cope with the pressure changes during the
> flight?
>
> --What would you consider *essential* equipment for a two-three hour flight
> with babies this age?
>
> 3. Toronto will be cold, Ft.Myers will be hot. I always adopt a layering
> approach for my clothing and figure I will do the same for the kidlets, but
> what should I expect from them regarding their adjusting to a different
> climate? How can I make it easier for them?
>
> 4. Are they too young for sunscreen? What SPF should I be using?
>
> 5. What are the essentials for travelling? I want to have everything we
> need, but I'd rather not have to rent a moving van to transport it :-)
>
> 6. What questions/concerns am I forgetting to address?
>
> TIA
>
> Marie
> Meet the Kidlets at http://ca.f1.pg.photos.yahoo.com/mmcw2

[Julie Seely]

Marie --

We didn't do air travel with the kids until they were 3, so I'm not
qualified to give advice on the traveling-with-babies aspects, except to
say that I would choose a direct flight to minimize air pressure
changes.

As for customs, we are US citizens who live fairly close to the border,
so we have driven through customs quite a lot, and have also flown once
round trip from Montreal to the US on vacation (we're halfway between
Montreal and Boston). Personally, I found it easier to drive through
customs than to go through customs at the airport, as the lines at the
airport seem to be more unpredictable, then of course you have to go
back through again in the car, anyway. Naturally leave yourself extra
time on the way there -- we actually drove to Montreal the night before
our early-morning flight and spent the night in a hotel.

Now for the fine print: As Canadian citizens (you're Canadian, right?),
your experience at the border might be different. Second, the reason we
flew from Montreal in the first place was that the airfare was *much*
cheaper. Third, we live in a very rural area, and have never crossed
the border in an urban area, so maybe lines there are longer. Finally,
we did have one experience crossing into Canada (from Maine to
Campobello Island) where we were pulled aside and the truck was
thoroughly searched -- 45 minutes or so. That, however, was about
twelve years ago, when we were young and unmarried and childless. We
still haven't figured out whether we looked questionable, or happened to
be that lucky xth car that automatically gets scrutinized.

Julie
Mom to Erica & Chris, 07/97

Marie wrote:
>
> My husband and I have always assumed the only way to travel is light: if it
> can't be carried on, it ain't needed.
>
> We are now planning our first long distance trip with our baby boys.
> Judging by the amount of stuff required for day trips with them, I have the
> feeling I am never again going to be able to bypass the luggage retreival
> section of the airport :-P
>
> As I begin planning, I'm hoping for some insight from veterans of the travel
> adventure:
>
> The scenario: We will be travelling from Toronto, Ontario to Ft.Myers,
> Florida in late November or early December. The boys will be 7mos old (5mos
> corrected). We are going to visit hubby's grandmother, who is 105yrs old.
>
> The questions:
>
> 1. We can either book a direct flight from Toronto, a connecting flight
> from Toronto, or a direct flight from Buffalo, NY.
>
> --Is it easier to handle customs at the airport or the border (ie while
> driving to Buffalo)?
>
> --What documentation should we have for traveling with the kidlets?
>
> --How easy/difficult is it to handle transfers with two infants?
>
> 2. Someone told me that the babies can travel free if we hold them in our
> laps. We were planning to take their car seats/carriers anyway (so we don't
> have to rent from the car rental company). Someone else told us that most
> flights have some seats that have extra leg room where a car seat can rest
> on the floor in front of the parent.
>
> --Are both/either of the above statements true?
>
> If so,
>
> --How safe is it to hold babies in your lap during take offs and landings?
>
> --How safe would it be to have a baby in an unrestrained car seat on the
> floor?
>
> Also,
>
> --How best to help the babies cope with the pressure changes during the
> flight?
>
> --What would you consider *essential* equipment for a two-three hour flight
> with babies this age?
>
> 3. Toronto will be cold, Ft.Myers will be hot. I always adopt a layering
> approach for my clothing and figure I will do the same for the kidlets, but
> what should I expect from them regarding their adjusting to a different
> climate? How can I make it easier for them?
>
> 4. Are they too young for sunscreen? What SPF should I be using?
>
> 5. What are the essentials for travelling? I want to have everything we
> need, but I'd rather not have to rent a moving van to transport it :-)
>
> 6. What questions/concerns am I forgetting to address?
>
> TIA
>
> Marie
> Meet the Kidlets at http://ca.f1.pg.photos.yahoo.com/mmcw2

[Rhiann1048]

>Subject: Travelling (by air) with infant twins
>From: "Marie"
>Date: Mon, Sep 22, 2003 8:31 PM
>Message-id: gers.com>
>
>My husband and I have always assumed the only way to travel is light: if
>it
>can't be carried on, it ain't needed.
>
>We are now planning our first long distance trip with our baby boys.
>Judging by the amount of stuff required for day trips with them, I have
>the
>feeling I am never again going to be able to bypass the luggage retreival
>section of the airport :-P
>
>As I begin planning, I'm hoping for some insight from veterans of the travel
>adventure:
>
>The scenario: We will be travelling from Toronto, Ontario to Ft.Myers,
>Florida in late November or early December. The boys will be 7mos old (5mos
>corrected). We are going to visit hubby's grandmother, who is 105yrs old.
>
>The questions:
>
>1. We can either book a direct flight from Toronto, a connecting flight
>from Toronto, or a direct flight from Buffalo, NY.
>
>--Is it easier to handle customs at the airport or the border (ie while
>driving to Buffalo)?

My guess would be the border. Juggling two kids, possibly car seats as well,
plus all your carryons and checked luggage won't be easy. Unless you can use a
smart cart in customs? I have no idea.


>
>--What documentation should we have for traveling with the kidlets?


I have never been to Canada as an adult. I don't know what sorts of paperwork
you need to cross the border. Maybe a birth certificate is enough? What will
you and your husband use? If you plan to use passports, it couldn't hurt to
get some for your kids as well. I had a passport as an infant.


>
>--How easy/difficult is it to handle transfers with two infants?

A lot will depend on the airport and how close the gates are to each other. We
have only flown with our girls once. And that was a one way trip because we
were moving. IMO transfering was a PITA. But in our situation we went from
one plane that was a 'puddle jumper' parked on the tarmac and had to walk to
get to the airport, up some stairs and down the hall to our other gate. The
one nice thing about that was that you had access to a motionless bathroom with
a changing table so that they could be changed in the middle of a trip. Other
than that it was a struggle to get off the plane, hike to the next gate and get
re-situated. You *may* have helpful flight attendants and the option to
pre-board and that will make the transition easier. But that was not our
experience. So don't count on it.



>
>2. Someone told me that the babies can travel free if we hold them in our
>laps. We were planning to take their car seats/carriers anyway (so we don't
>have to rent from the car rental company). Someone else told us that most
>flights have some seats that have extra leg room where a car seat can rest
>on the floor in front of the parent.
>
>--Are both/either of the above statements true?

Our daughters were 6 months old when we flew and we bought each of them a seat.
No way would I do the lap baby thing. Iit gives you more room, it assures you
a place to set them down so you get up to use the bathroom while they sleep,
etc. And for safety reasons I'd much rather have them strapped in as much of
the flight as possible. It also allows you to check more luggage which was an
issue for us.



>
>If so,
>
>--How safe is it to hold babies in your lap during take offs and landings?

People do it. I wouldn't. In most cases it is safe. But you never know.



>
>--How safe would it be to have a baby in an unrestrained car seat on the
>floor?
>
>Also,
>
>--How best to help the babies cope with the pressure changes during the
>flight?
>
>--What would you consider *essential* equipment for a two-three hour flight
>with babies this age?

Unless you are bf'ing, plenty of whatever they are drinking and the neccessary
bottles/liners etc. I brought several single serving cans of the premixed
formula (I only bought those for trips) and then extra bottled water and a
ziplock of powdered formula. Of course diapers, wipes, changing pad, burp rags,
changes of clothes for *all* of you, some toys. Bibs -- especially if you have
droolers. Binkies if they use them. You might want toys that attach to the
seats so they don't get lost/tossed. A light blanket might be a good idea.
Plastic bags for dirty diapers/clothes/ etc. And pack more of everything than
you think you'll need. I know you want to pack light. But there is no way of
knowing if there might be weather delays or whatever that might double or
triple the length of your trip. And you don't want to fun out of food or
diapers! I brought an obnoxious amount of stuff with me. But I heard enough
horror stories (my SIL flying with two kids under 4 from Phx to Mpls. They got
re-routed to Fargo where they remained on the ground, in the plane, for hours)
that made me extra cautious.


>
>3. Toronto will be cold, Ft.Myers will be hot. I always adopt a layering
>approach for my clothing and figure I will do the same for the kidlets,
>but
>what should I expect from them regarding their adjusting to a different
>climate? How can I make it easier for them?


I can't imagine they'll even notice.


>
>4. Are they too young for sunscreen? What SPF should I be using?

We use Waterbabies 45. It is put out by Coppertone.


>
>5. What are the essentials for travelling? I want to have everything we
>need, but I'd rather not have to rent a moving van to transport it :-)

This (along with my fear of being trapped on a plane with two screaming babies)
is why we have driven on every trip since. I'd rather drive 1000 miles all
night straight through than try to fly again. But you are going too far of a
distance for that to be a practical option.

Are you staying in a hotel or with family? If it is a hotel, then you can rent
cribs at least. We always stayed with family so we just moved a mattress to
the floor to sleep on. Diapers, wipes, food, etc you can buy at your
destination. We brought their bouncy seats to use as a place to feed them
solids and just to hang out in. You'll want strollers of some sort. Instead
of using our usual big double stroller we just brought along two cheap umbrella
strollers with connectors. We brought lots of smaller toys and board books.
If you have access to a washing machine you can get by with fewer clothes for
all of you. We brought the usual bottles, bibs, hats, little spoons, tylenol
and on and on and on. It is all those little things that add up. But depending
on what they are eating/drinking at this stage how much you'll need to bring
will vary.


Lori


>
>6. What questions/concerns am I forgetting to address?
>
>TIA

[Rhiann1048]

>Subject: Travelling (by air) with infant twins
>From: "Marie"
>Date: Mon, Sep 22, 2003 8:31 PM
>Message-id: gers.com>
>
>My husband and I have always assumed the only way to travel is light: if
>it
>can't be carried on, it ain't needed.
>
>We are now planning our first long distance trip with our baby boys.
>Judging by the amount of stuff required for day trips with them, I have
>the
>feeling I am never again going to be able to bypass the luggage retreival
>section of the airport :-P
>
>As I begin planning, I'm hoping for some insight from veterans of the travel
>adventure:
>
>The scenario: We will be travelling from Toronto, Ontario to Ft.Myers,
>Florida in late November or early December. The boys will be 7mos old (5mos
>corrected). We are going to visit hubby's grandmother, who is 105yrs old.
>
>The questions:
>
>1. We can either book a direct flight from Toronto, a connecting flight
>from Toronto, or a direct flight from Buffalo, NY.
>
>--Is it easier to handle customs at the airport or the border (ie while
>driving to Buffalo)?

My guess would be the border. Juggling two kids, possibly car seats as well,
plus all your carryons and checked luggage won't be easy. Unless you can use a
smart cart in customs? I have no idea.


>
>--What documentation should we have for traveling with the kidlets?


I have never been to Canada as an adult. I don't know what sorts of paperwork
you need to cross the border. Maybe a birth certificate is enough? What will
you and your husband use? If you plan to use passports, it couldn't hurt to
get some for your kids as well. I had a passport as an infant.


>
>--How easy/difficult is it to handle transfers with two infants?

A lot will depend on the airport and how close the gates are to each other. We
have only flown with our girls once. And that was a one way trip because we
were moving. IMO transfering was a PITA. But in our situation we went from
one plane that was a 'puddle jumper' parked on the tarmac and had to walk to
get to the airport, up some stairs and down the hall to our other gate. The
one nice thing about that was that you had access to a motionless bathroom with
a changing table so that they could be changed in the middle of a trip. Other
than that it was a struggle to get off the plane, hike to the next gate and get
re-situated. You *may* have helpful flight attendants and the option to
pre-board and that will make the transition easier. But that was not our
experience. So don't count on it.



>
>2. Someone told me that the babies can travel free if we hold them in our
>laps. We were planning to take their car seats/carriers anyway (so we don't
>have to rent from the car rental company). Someone else told us that most
>flights have some seats that have extra leg room where a car seat can rest
>on the floor in front of the parent.
>
>--Are both/either of the above statements true?

Our daughters were 6 months old when we flew and we bought each of them a seat.
No way would I do the lap baby thing. Iit gives you more room, it assures you
a place to set them down so you get up to use the bathroom while they sleep,
etc. And for safety reasons I'd much rather have them strapped in as much of
the flight as possible. It also allows you to check more luggage which was an
issue for us.



>
>If so,
>
>--How safe is it to hold babies in your lap during take offs and landings?

People do it. I wouldn't. In most cases it is safe. But you never know.



>
>--How safe would it be to have a baby in an unrestrained car seat on the
>floor?
>
>Also,
>
>--How best to help the babies cope with the pressure changes during the
>flight?
>
>--What would you consider *essential* equipment for a two-three hour flight
>with babies this age?

Unless you are bf'ing, plenty of whatever they are drinking and the neccessary
bottles/liners etc. I brought several single serving cans of the premixed
formula (I only bought those for trips) and then extra bottled water and a
ziplock of powdered formula. Of course diapers, wipes, changing pad, burp rags,
changes of clothes for *all* of you, some toys. Bibs -- especially if you have
droolers. Binkies if they use them. You might want toys that attach to the
seats so they don't get lost/tossed. A light blanket might be a good idea.
Plastic bags for dirty diapers/clothes/ etc. And pack more of everything than
you think you'll need. I know you want to pack light. But there is no way of
knowing if there might be weather delays or whatever that might double or
triple the length of your trip. And you don't want to fun out of food or
diapers! I brought an obnoxious amount of stuff with me. But I heard enough
horror stories (my SIL flying with two kids under 4 from Phx to Mpls. They got
re-routed to Fargo where they remained on the ground, in the plane, for hours)
that made me extra cautious.


>
>3. Toronto will be cold, Ft.Myers will be hot. I always adopt a layering
>approach for my clothing and figure I will do the same for the kidlets,
>but
>what should I expect from them regarding their adjusting to a different
>climate? How can I make it easier for them?


I can't imagine they'll even notice.


>
>4. Are they too young for sunscreen? What SPF should I be using?

We use Waterbabies 45. It is put out by Coppertone.


>
>5. What are the essentials for travelling? I want to have everything we
>need, but I'd rather not have to rent a moving van to transport it :-)

This (along with my fear of being trapped on a plane with two screaming babies)
is why we have driven on every trip since. I'd rather drive 1000 miles all
night straight through than try to fly again. But you are going too far of a
distance for that to be a practical option.

Are you staying in a hotel or with family? If it is a hotel, then you can rent
cribs at least. We always stayed with family so we just moved a mattress to
the floor to sleep on. Diapers, wipes, food, etc you can buy at your
destination. We brought their bouncy seats to use as a place to feed them
solids and just to hang out in. You'll want strollers of some sort. Instead
of using our usual big double stroller we just brought along two cheap umbrella
strollers with connectors. We brought lots of smaller toys and board books.
If you have access to a washing machine you can get by with fewer clothes for
all of you. We brought the usual bottles, bibs, hats, little spoons, tylenol
and on and on and on. It is all those little things that add up. But depending
on what they are eating/drinking at this stage how much you'll need to bring
will vary.


Lori


>
>6. What questions/concerns am I forgetting to address?
>
>TIA

[cbalt12c609]

I don't know much about what customs is like at the border or the airport
since 9-11. My sister went to FL recently by driving to Buffalo instead of
flying out of Toronto and said it saved her a ton of money.

All you need to travel to the US is the babies' birth certificates. If you
haven't yet received them, you should call the office in Thunder Bay that
issues them. It took me almost a year to get mine. If there's a problem
with getting them before your trip you can ask your local city hall (I don't
know the exact office name) and they will do up a special letter for you to
present to customs & imigration certifying that they are processing the
birth certificates etc. and this is suffient to travel with.

Chidren under 2 travel for free as long as they're in your lap. If they're
going to be in a seat then you have to pay for it. Most planes have a
bassinett that is located in the first row. I think it's called a skybed.
It comes down from the ceiling and you can put your baby to sleep in there.
I would double check with the airline about whether or not you can have the
car seat on the floor because they don't want loose objects like that in
case of turbulence etc. That's why they make you put everything under your
seat or above in the compartments.

There's a special way to hold your baby during takeoff and landing. If I
remember correctly, baby is on you chest to chest meaning your hold him with
his chest on your chest. One arm goes around his waist and the other
supports the back of his head. Ask the flight attendant for sure because
it's been awhile since we travelled with an infant.

To cope with the pressure, they encourage you to have your baby drink from
it's bottle or use a pacifier during takeoff and landing. The sucking is
what helps them

To entertain them, take just a few small toys. They're going to throw
everything on the floor anyways and it's such a small space to be bending
over picking everything up. Ten to one your babies will sleep after a
while. Food is the best source of entertainment. Feed them and pray
they'll sleep. Singing little songs or playing games is a great idea
(peekaboo).

Bring a pair of shorts and a t-shirt or light pants in your carry on bag.
You'll be sure to want to change them at the airport in Florida. Put the
winter coats in your luggage before you check it on the plane. Remember the
flight will be very cool so bring sweaters.

They say not to put sunscreen on infants under 6 mos. Your babies are
almost there so I'd probably do it anyways. Use a 40 or higher spf.

You don't need alot of clothes for them; a few pairs of shorts, one pair of
pants (for each of course) and a few shirts and a sweater. You can always
buy your diapers down there so don't pack a tonne of those. Do you have
your stroller? Are you nursing or ff? Check to see if any stores down
there carry the same brand of formula or similar so that you don't have to
pack lots.

HOpe that helps,
Shelley




"Marie" > wrote in message
le.rogers.com...
> My husband and I have always assumed the only way to travel is light: if
it
> can't be carried on, it ain't needed.
>
> We are now planning our first long distance trip with our baby boys.
> Judging by the amount of stuff required for day trips with them, I have
the
> feeling I am never again going to be able to bypass the luggage retreival
> section of the airport :-P
>
> As I begin planning, I'm hoping for some insight from veterans of the
travel
> adventure:
>
> The scenario: We will be travelling from Toronto, Ontario to Ft.Myers,
> Florida in late November or early December. The boys will be 7mos old
(5mos
> corrected). We are going to visit hubby's grandmother, who is 105yrs old.
>
> The questions:
>
> 1. We can either book a direct flight from Toronto, a connecting flight
> from Toronto, or a direct flight from Buffalo, NY.
>
> --Is it easier to handle customs at the airport or the border (ie while
> driving to Buffalo)?
>
> --What documentation should we have for traveling with the kidlets?
>
> --How easy/difficult is it to handle transfers with two infants?
>
> 2. Someone told me that the babies can travel free if we hold them in our
> laps. We were planning to take their car seats/carriers anyway (so we
don't
> have to rent from the car rental company). Someone else told us that most
> flights have some seats that have extra leg room where a car seat can rest
> on the floor in front of the parent.
>
> --Are both/either of the above statements true?
>
> If so,
>
> --How safe is it to hold babies in your lap during take offs and landings?
>
> --How safe would it be to have a baby in an unrestrained car seat on the
> floor?
>
> Also,
>
> --How best to help the babies cope with the pressure changes during the
> flight?
>
> --What would you consider *essential* equipment for a two-three hour
flight
> with babies this age?
>
> 3. Toronto will be cold, Ft.Myers will be hot. I always adopt a layering
> approach for my clothing and figure I will do the same for the kidlets,
but
> what should I expect from them regarding their adjusting to a different
> climate? How can I make it easier for them?
>
> 4. Are they too young for sunscreen? What SPF should I be using?
>
> 5. What are the essentials for travelling? I want to have everything we
> need, but I'd rather not have to rent a moving van to transport it :-)
>
> 6. What questions/concerns am I forgetting to address?
>
> TIA
>
> Marie
> Meet the Kidlets at http://ca.f1.pg.photos.yahoo.com/mmcw2
>
>

[cbalt12c609]

I don't know much about what customs is like at the border or the airport
since 9-11. My sister went to FL recently by driving to Buffalo instead of
flying out of Toronto and said it saved her a ton of money.

All you need to travel to the US is the babies' birth certificates. If you
haven't yet received them, you should call the office in Thunder Bay that
issues them. It took me almost a year to get mine. If there's a problem
with getting them before your trip you can ask your local city hall (I don't
know the exact office name) and they will do up a special letter for you to
present to customs & imigration certifying that they are processing the
birth certificates etc. and this is suffient to travel with.

Chidren under 2 travel for free as long as they're in your lap. If they're
going to be in a seat then you have to pay for it. Most planes have a
bassinett that is located in the first row. I think it's called a skybed.
It comes down from the ceiling and you can put your baby to sleep in there.
I would double check with the airline about whether or not you can have the
car seat on the floor because they don't want loose objects like that in
case of turbulence etc. That's why they make you put everything under your
seat or above in the compartments.

There's a special way to hold your baby during takeoff and landing. If I
remember correctly, baby is on you chest to chest meaning your hold him with
his chest on your chest. One arm goes around his waist and the other
supports the back of his head. Ask the flight attendant for sure because
it's been awhile since we travelled with an infant.

To cope with the pressure, they encourage you to have your baby drink from
it's bottle or use a pacifier during takeoff and landing. The sucking is
what helps them

To entertain them, take just a few small toys. They're going to throw
everything on the floor anyways and it's such a small space to be bending
over picking everything up. Ten to one your babies will sleep after a
while. Food is the best source of entertainment. Feed them and pray
they'll sleep. Singing little songs or playing games is a great idea
(peekaboo).

Bring a pair of shorts and a t-shirt or light pants in your carry on bag.
You'll be sure to want to change them at the airport in Florida. Put the
winter coats in your luggage before you check it on the plane. Remember the
flight will be very cool so bring sweaters.

They say not to put sunscreen on infants under 6 mos. Your babies are
almost there so I'd probably do it anyways. Use a 40 or higher spf.

You don't need alot of clothes for them; a few pairs of shorts, one pair of
pants (for each of course) and a few shirts and a sweater. You can always
buy your diapers down there so don't pack a tonne of those. Do you have
your stroller? Are you nursing or ff? Check to see if any stores down
there carry the same brand of formula or similar so that you don't have to
pack lots.

HOpe that helps,
Shelley




"Marie" > wrote in message
le.rogers.com...
> My husband and I have always assumed the only way to travel is light: if
it
> can't be carried on, it ain't needed.
>
> We are now planning our first long distance trip with our baby boys.
> Judging by the amount of stuff required for day trips with them, I have
the
> feeling I am never again going to be able to bypass the luggage retreival
> section of the airport :-P
>
> As I begin planning, I'm hoping for some insight from veterans of the
travel
> adventure:
>
> The scenario: We will be travelling from Toronto, Ontario to Ft.Myers,
> Florida in late November or early December. The boys will be 7mos old
(5mos
> corrected). We are going to visit hubby's grandmother, who is 105yrs old.
>
> The questions:
>
> 1. We can either book a direct flight from Toronto, a connecting flight
> from Toronto, or a direct flight from Buffalo, NY.
>
> --Is it easier to handle customs at the airport or the border (ie while
> driving to Buffalo)?
>
> --What documentation should we have for traveling with the kidlets?
>
> --How easy/difficult is it to handle transfers with two infants?
>
> 2. Someone told me that the babies can travel free if we hold them in our
> laps. We were planning to take their car seats/carriers anyway (so we
don't
> have to rent from the car rental company). Someone else told us that most
> flights have some seats that have extra leg room where a car seat can rest
> on the floor in front of the parent.
>
> --Are both/either of the above statements true?
>
> If so,
>
> --How safe is it to hold babies in your lap during take offs and landings?
>
> --How safe would it be to have a baby in an unrestrained car seat on the
> floor?
>
> Also,
>
> --How best to help the babies cope with the pressure changes during the
> flight?
>
> --What would you consider *essential* equipment for a two-three hour
flight
> with babies this age?
>
> 3. Toronto will be cold, Ft.Myers will be hot. I always adopt a layering
> approach for my clothing and figure I will do the same for the kidlets,
but
> what should I expect from them regarding their adjusting to a different
> climate? How can I make it easier for them?
>
> 4. Are they too young for sunscreen? What SPF should I be using?
>
> 5. What are the essentials for travelling? I want to have everything we
> need, but I'd rather not have to rent a moving van to transport it :-)
>
> 6. What questions/concerns am I forgetting to address?
>
> TIA
>
> Marie
> Meet the Kidlets at http://ca.f1.pg.photos.yahoo.com/mmcw2
>
>

[Julie Seely]

David --

Not exactly true -- the AAP policy statement says: "In situations where
the infant's skin is not protected adequately by clothing, it may be
reasonable to apply sunscreen to small areas, such as the face and the
back of the hands."

http://www.aap.org/policy/re9913.html

and

"Avoiding sun exposure and dressing infants and children in lightweight
long pants and long-sleeved shirts are still the top recommendations
from the American Academy of Pediatrics to prevent sunburn.

http://www.aap.org/advocacy/releases/skin.htm

The reason is:

The issue of whether sunscreen is safe for infants under the age of 6
months remains controversial. Concerns have been raised that human skin
under 6 months may have different absorptive characteristics; biologic
systems that metabolize and excrete drugs may not be fully developed in
children <6 months.33 Despite these concerns, the Australian Cancer
Society, supported by the Australasian College of Dermatologists,
concluded that there is no evidence to suggest that using sunscreen on
small areas of a baby's skin is associated with any long-term effects.
They recommend that sunscreen be used when physical protection, such as
clothing, hats, and shade, is not adequate.34"

That said, with nearly-6-month-olds in Florida, I would presonally go
for the sunscreen over risking a burn.

Julie


David desJardins wrote:
>
> Shelley writes:
> > They say not to put sunscreen on infants under 6 mos.
>
> Who is "they"? The American Academy of Pediatrics endorsed sunscreen
> for all ages, years ago. If there's an organized group that opposes
> this, I'm curious who it is.
>
> David desJardins

[Julie Seely]

David --

Not exactly true -- the AAP policy statement says: "In situations where
the infant's skin is not protected adequately by clothing, it may be
reasonable to apply sunscreen to small areas, such as the face and the
back of the hands."

http://www.aap.org/policy/re9913.html

and

"Avoiding sun exposure and dressing infants and children in lightweight
long pants and long-sleeved shirts are still the top recommendations
from the American Academy of Pediatrics to prevent sunburn.

http://www.aap.org/advocacy/releases/skin.htm

The reason is:

The issue of whether sunscreen is safe for infants under the age of 6
months remains controversial. Concerns have been raised that human skin
under 6 months may have different absorptive characteristics; biologic
systems that metabolize and excrete drugs may not be fully developed in
children <6 months.33 Despite these concerns, the Australian Cancer
Society, supported by the Australasian College of Dermatologists,
concluded that there is no evidence to suggest that using sunscreen on
small areas of a baby's skin is associated with any long-term effects.
They recommend that sunscreen be used when physical protection, such as
clothing, hats, and shade, is not adequate.34"

That said, with nearly-6-month-olds in Florida, I would presonally go
for the sunscreen over risking a burn.

Julie


David desJardins wrote:
>
> Shelley writes:
> > They say not to put sunscreen on infants under 6 mos.
>
> Who is "they"? The American Academy of Pediatrics endorsed sunscreen
> for all ages, years ago. If there's an organized group that opposes
> this, I'm curious who it is.
>
> David desJardins

[cbalt12c609]

First, thank you to Julie for helping me answer this question.

Just one of the books I've read this in is "What to Expect the First Year",
by A. Eisenberg et al, pp 387, wherein it is written "Avoid exposing babies
under six months to strong sunlight ... but do not use a sunscreen without a
doctor's okay".

Shelley Baltazar

"David desJardins" > wrote in message
...
> Shelley writes:
> > They say not to put sunscreen on infants under 6 mos.
>
> Who is "they"? The American Academy of Pediatrics endorsed sunscreen
> for all ages, years ago. If there's an organized group that opposes
> this, I'm curious who it is.
>
> David desJardins

[cbalt12c609]

First, thank you to Julie for helping me answer this question.

Just one of the books I've read this in is "What to Expect the First Year",
by A. Eisenberg et al, pp 387, wherein it is written "Avoid exposing babies
under six months to strong sunlight ... but do not use a sunscreen without a
doctor's okay".

Shelley Baltazar

"David desJardins" > wrote in message
...
> Shelley writes:
> > They say not to put sunscreen on infants under 6 mos.
>
> Who is "they"? The American Academy of Pediatrics endorsed sunscreen
> for all ages, years ago. If there's an organized group that opposes
> this, I'm curious who it is.
>
> David desJardins