How much do framed baby backpacks support?

best baby backpack for hiking image

rainwriter

I'm looking at getting a metal framed hiking type back pack. What is the upper weight/age limit to these? Here's the one I'm looking at getting. http://eastidaho.craigslist.org/bab/796313648.html Are these too big for toddlers?

Answer
they only go to 25 pds. Why don't you look at the ERGO carrier, those metal frames are horrible for you back! The ergo is great and comfy I use it all the time

What's the best way to prevent blisters on your feet while hiking?

dcsportbik

Getting ready to hike down (and up) the Grand Canyon and don't want to run the risk of any blisters on my feet. Any clever ideas as to how to prevent them from occuring?

Answer
I have done a lot of Grand Canyon hiking and have experimented with a number of blister prevention techniques. This is one of those areas with a lot approaches and everybody seems to have their favorite.

I personally have had the best luck with putting Spyroflex blister pads on the most likely spots before I start hiking. Spyroflex pads are a very thin membrane sheet (similar to the latex part of a bandaid) that stays on pretty well, can last for several days and is waterproof. Spenco sells a very similar item called Second Skin. Both can be found at REI and most outdoors type stores. Make sure your foot is dry and clean before you put them on and ensure that you get it on as flat as possible with no wrinkles. I did a two week backpacking trip using those and was the only in my group to not get a single blister.

The main thing is that you want a covering that is very thin and will stay in place (duct tape and athletic tape can also be used, but the above Spyroflex and Second Skin allow your skin to breath better). I have never had much luck with Moleskin or similar 'padded' products as they always seem to instantly get pulled off and stuck to my sock within a mile.

Other techniques which I have tried (and others that I know swear by) including putting a bit of baby powder in your sock (seems to work, but can be messy) and wearing a smaller liner sock inside your main sock (I always ended up feeling like my feet were suffocating even in cool weather).

As others above have mentioned, probably the most important thing is that you want to make sure that you have boots that fit you properly and are well broken in (and your feet are used to) before you start. This can eliminate a lot of blister and soreness problems before they even start.

Also, as soon as you start to feel any sort of friction or a place where a blister might be forming (a 'hot spot') you should stop and take care of it (put some sort of pad or protection on the area) immedately - don't wait until you have a full fledged blister before you do something about it.

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I will have a 2 1/2 year old and a new born this summer. Tandem or side by side?

baby backpack monkey image

respekdpic

Would I still need a stroller for a 2 1/2? What double stroller would you recommend? I usually just walk with my 2 year old but I was thinking if I was shopping alone or running errands with both of them, I want to have the option of putting them in a stroller for safety reasons, specially when it's crowded. Thanks.

Answer
I am a fan of the "Sit and Stand" type strollers. Check these ones out:
http://www.onestepahead.com/catalog/product.jsp?productId=6793
http://www.walmart.com/ip/Baby-Sit-N-Stand-Stroller-Galaxy/5246099
http://www.nextag.com/sit-n-stand-stroller/shop-html

Especially at 2 1/2 years old, most likely your older child would not want to be confined to a stroller all the time. This worked very well for my children who were about 2 1/2 to 3 years apart. They do have these "Leashes" which I was never a fan of, because it kind of makes it seem like the children are being treated like animals. My 3rd child was a "Wanderer" though (Found out later he has Autism) so we did use one for a few months. Here are some examples of more discrete ones: http://www.walmart.com/ip/Goldbug-2-in-1-Monkey-Child-Safety-Harness/4532497
http://www.mypreciouskid.com/toddler-backpack-harness.html

Do you use a backpack "leash" for your child?

Mrs. Dwigh

If you do, do you get a lot of rude comments from strangers about it?

Answer
Yes we use it occasionally. And I'm going to use it more, as I cannot keep up with my 2 year old as her little baby brother is growing inside of me. :) I'm 27 weeks. I wish I used it at the wic office the other day actually. Definitely taking her monkey backpack harness-aka child leash- with me when we visit Seattle in the next couple weeks. It's actually pretty cute and they can hold like their snacks or a cup in there. :) My daughter will run like crazy anywhere, so it is very handy to keep, I just keep it in the car. I have the tail part wrapped around my wrist and let her hold my hand. Then when she get's her eye on something, she can't run off too far. :)
I haven't really got any rude comments about it but I'll tell you a funny one a little boy made a comment on it. We were in Costco and we had her monkey"leash" on her so she can walk around. Well a little boy in the grocery cart goes. "Mommy! mommy! That girl has a leash on!!" I just smile oh so sweetly, then he looks at my bf and repeats. "she has a leash"... My boyfriend retorts back, "yeah, but you are in a cage!! LMAO!!! kid's face just dropped and his mother and I were laughing hysterically. :)
But I don't care what people think. My daughter's safety and more important than people's opinions. Better safe than sorry.

BTW... A LEASH IS WHAT MOST DOGS WEAR AROUND THEIR "NECK"... just to the people referring these things to walking a dog... :)

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Do I have to use an approved car/booster seat on Alaska Airlines?

baby backpack carrier prices image

lachburke

I am booked on a flight on Alaska Airlines next year with my 1.5 year old. He is flying on a full fare adult ticket not a discounted infant fare (usually 1/2 price). Both our tickets are points tickets (Perth through to Vancouver on Qantas then Alaska AL). Qantas does not require a booster seat for children in their own seat, even if they are under 2 (ie. infants) so I was not planning on bringing a car seat as I am travelling alone and will have enough to carry as it is. I read on the Alaska AL website that "children travelling on 50% infant ticket seats must use a booster/car seat approved for car and air travel". I'm wondering, given that my son will be travelling on a full fare adult ticket whether he needs the booster seat? What will they do if I don't have one, not let us on the flight? Or, shall I just lie and say he's 2 - or just board the flight with him in his own seat w/out booster and they will assume is is two and not longer an infant and therefore no booster required.

Answer
My 6-year-old has now flown on 242 flights and my 2-year-old on 40 flights. Mostly on Alaska Airlines so I have a bit of experience with this.

As a lap baby (unpaid), you definitely don't need a car seat. Some airlines like Northwest are real pricks about not allowing you to use one even on a flight with lots of empty seats. Whereas Alaska is one of the most baby-friendly airlines we've used and will let you use an empty seat for a car seat even though you paid nothing. I'll reserve a window-aisle combo (leaving an empty middle seat) towards the back of the plane to increase the chance of getting a free empty seat. IF someone does buy the seat between, they ALWAYS want to get out from between mother-child or mother-father passing a baby back and forth.

Without a carseat, you will need to have them in your lap for take-off and landing. They might want you to pick them up during possible turbulance as well. What you propose is no different than the unpaid lap baby who has an empty seat next to them. I can't imagine the flight attendents caring except during take-off and landing and then, (despite the physics involved), Mom's arms suffice. (or a car seat)

But I would reconsider your plan. Again, I've done this A LOT, and we try hard to BRING the car seat, not leave it or check it. Of course the car seat is safest in a crash, but Quantas has never had a crash and Alaska only loses planes about once every 20 years. More importantly, a child can sleep in a car seat much easier because it is sloped and their head is suported on both sides. And your arms will get TIRED of holding him for 18 hours of flight time. And if he gets into a total screaming, kicking fit about being overtired, jet-lagged, etc, you can strap him and pop in a pacificer. For some kids, being secured down helps at times. Sure, it is one more thing to schlepp through the airport, but you could always use a rental cart for $3 or call for one of those electric carts the old folks use. At 1.5 years old, I'd bring a Baby Bjorn front carrier so you can have him on your chest and leave your two hands free. One for the car seat and one to present tickets, passports, etc.

For your carry-on, use a backpack/rucksack. Baby in front, backpack behind, car seat on one arm, one hand free. I've gone through many airports and countries that way. So has my wife. Yeah, it is easier with two adults, but doable as one.

Try hard to save nursing or a bottle for climb-out and, less so, descent. The swallowing helps clear his ear pressure.

Theoretically, they can ask to see a US FAA approval sticker for airplane use on the carseat (they all have it), but any nation's approval ought to fly. And Alaska doesn't check all that often.

You'll need a car seat to drive with him in Alaska until he is 4 years or 40 pounds. And while airplanes rarely hit moose, cars and taxis do.

A list of things one needs for a new baby?

Full Moon

I'm going to be a first time mom in June and I know the basics of things I will need but I still always have feelings that I might forget something that I need, as I've never done this before. Can anyone direct me to a good list of things or list some things? Thanks a lot.

Answer
babyzone.com has a list of things to buy when it comes to babies and its a fairly good list but keep in mind that all of this great stuff you buy you may bever use take your lifestyle into consideration when shoping like i never use their dresser my twins livge out of their clean laundry basketchangeing table i dont use the couch/floor/bed work greatchangeing pads are a must play pen is not nessicary untill the baby is quite a bit older 5-7 months unless you have pts who may not know how to mind their mannors bouncy seats or nice but optional swins are a must have crib is optional depending on if you want to sleep with your baby bassinets are a total waste of money the babies out grow them too quickly bath tubs are optional nice to have but not nessicaryboppy pillow for breast feeding is great but optional normal pillows work too burp rags are a must tons of blankets i recomend the fleace ones they soft and warmreciveing blankets are useless big fluffy quilts a no no they can sufocate the baby so that cute crib bumper set is best used with bumpers on the crib and the blanket a verry pretty decoration on the wall play gyms arent needed till baby is 4 months + lots of 0-3 clothes oly a few newborn sizes for pictures and the return from the hospital of course a car seat is a must if you go for the carrier/car seat its handy untill they baby reaches 20 lbs if you go for the convertable a baby carrier front strap backpack type is a must gas drops are a must name brand is mylecon but there is a generic brad for double the size half the price and works just fine baby lotion soap both have to have baby disposable wah cloths are optional but verry nice to have big fluffy towels are a must in my house the babies like them and they make it more fun for me to cuddle after bath time need more help message me by clicking my picture under contact user go to email ill answer any questions

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What do you think of toddler leashes?

baby backpack with leash image

Love to An

I have always thought toddler leashes were a great idea. Especially with the psychos that are out there, I have no shame in putting one of those on my baby.

Mind you, they are not literally leashes. They look like a backpack in the shape of a teddy bear for the kid to wear, and there is a strap that the parents can hold on to. I don't see why so many people think it's cruel, but I am curious, what do you think?
Wow! It's so interesting to see the different points of view. Thanks everyone.
I don't agree that it's lazy or cruel. I believe that it is cautious.

I mean really, do we put dogs on leashess to tourture them? No. We put them on leashes to keep them from running into the street and getting hit by a truck, for example.

As I said before, they aren't "leashes" per se, tehy are backpacks with a string!

However, I do respect everyone's individual opinion. :)

Answer
People have been using them for years, and no harm has come to any child either physically or mentally. I don't understand how people can have such strong opinions over something so insignificant. There are so many kids being abused and neglected in this world and people get in a huff over these contraptions? When I see them on toddlers I think to myself 'that kid obviously likes to run off!' I would rather see a child in a walking restraint then trapped in a buggy screaming his/her head off getting in a state and stressing his/herself and everyone around because they want to walk like human beings with legs! A restraint can give the child the freedom they obviously need/want in a safe way, everyone knows kids can wriggle free from the grip of a hand, or become distracted by a ball/bird and chase it in to the road. A parent who uses one of these things is allowing their child to experience the world around them in a safe way, and most kids I know seem quite Happy for the experience.

Edit: the people saying 'learn to control your child' children are human beings not animals to be trained and controlled, that statement is more degrading to a child then having them walk in a restraint.

How do I stop thinking about this?

Nicole

Today, I was watching my father hold my newborn baby daughter. I realized although I knew he wouldn't dare harm her, any guy could. I have a trust issue with this now and now I don't know how to stop thinking about it. This is vague and impractical, but can someone just give me an answer?

Answer
That's is such a very hard question. You cannot protect her from every guy and from every harm. But you can do your best from the biggies. Always keep her in your sight and within arms reach in public. When she starts walking and you don't have enough hands, it's time for a backpack leash. Know who what when where and why. Get a nanny cam. As she gets older your safety concerns will change and so to will your worries. Remember to pick your battles, some things she will have to learn the hard way, like don't stand on your rocking horse, Others you have to teach that are non negotiable like don't talk to strangers. Worrying for her is normal, but don't let those worries control you and ruin the joy you have with her.

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Any suggestions for a backpack baby carrier?

baby backpack image

jveryrad

I have a very active 15month old daughter. She likes to grab objects and destroy them. She is difficult to bring to a store. Yesterday, I had to hold her while shopping in hardware stores because she insisted on opening packages or bottles if I let her down. The shopping carts can be very dirty in a hardware store.

Does anyone use a backpack baby carrier for their toddlers for shopping? I don't do much hiking, and I use a stroller to take her on walks. So I would just use it to take her where I don't want her to run around.

Is it safe to get into? Is there a risk of dropping her while putting the backpack on? Any other uses for this? Any suggestions for brands? I heard Tough Traveler is good. Thanks.

Answer
I love my backpack for shopping, and I can still carry my soon to be 3 year old. This is the one I have http://www.mec.ca/Products/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524441776409&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302735239&bmUID=1160421939450 . We bought it almost 5 years ago when our oldest was the right size for it. It still looks brand new. I used it for shopping and long walks, my husband uses it for hiking. Have fun!

How much money should I save for a new baby?

Jilly

I want to start trying for a baby next year. I plan on taking between 3-6 months off from work. How much money should I set aside? Thanks.

Answer
If you plan to be off work that long, I would save a few thousand.

On baby items alone, brand new for the most part, we spent about $1500. Luckily our baby shower brought us a TON of diapers, clothing, and major expenses (stroller and car seat). The most expensive items will be clothes and diapers. Babies tend to go through them like crazy. My son is wearing 3-6 month clothing and he is 9 weeks old.

He is breastfed, so if you plan to feed your baby formula...add that to your expenses as well. I am not sure how much formula costs. BUT you also have to figure how much baby might eat during growth spurts. My baby ate double during weeks 2,3, and 6. They literally will want to eat every 2 hours even when they seems to eat every 3 or 4 normally.

Here is a breakdown of our expenses:

Clothes: $75 (bought a few pajamas for warmer weather)
Diapers: $40 (newborns tend to go through 12-14 day, mine goes through 8 or so, we buy pampers sensitive)
Wipes: $20 (extra large box with 6 refills)
Ointment: $7 (Aveeno or Butt paste)
Baby wash: $7 (we use Aveeno, baby skin dries out with fragrance washes)

* I didn't add the toys we bought him this month because with a newborn, the first month is literally sleep, poop, eat, sleep. That is about it. Then about month two it would be nice to buy books, floor gyms...etc.

**Buy a white noise machine or mobile (helps them sleep)
**If not breastfeeding, buy a binky
**Receiving blankets! They sleep better when swaddled (about $6-8 a pack)
**Hand mittens, they claw like crazy
**hats
**They go through a stage where they never want to leave your side, buy a safe sling or baby **backpack to carry him/her around in....this stage usually sets in around 3rd week.

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How do I handle all the baggage and my child when flying alone?

baby backpack for 1 year old image

Amanda R

I am going to be flying non-stop to Colorado from St. Louis in a couple weeks. I will be flying alone with my one year old. I need to take his carseat(checking) and stroller(would like to keep it so I can use it in the airport so I guess it is like a carryon but it will be held at the front of the plane), and a suitcase (will be checking), and a diaperbag that I will be carrying on. My question is how am I going to handle all of this stuff when I pick it up at baggage claim and until I check it through? Will there be people that can help me get my bags or not?
Will they let me check the stroller so I can have it plane side?

Answer
I'm an ex-F/A who flies now alone with my three between Europe and California about every six months since each was about 4 months old. We also take shorter trips a lot.

1. I don't take a purse. I take a small fanny pack or long strapped small bag with my essentials and a backpack. It's a bit bigger than the standard size (I have one just for flying) and fits the onboard limits. With just one child, consider leaving or packing the diaper bag.

2. Attach the carseat to the stroller. Use bungee cords and perhaps try them back-to-back. Another option is to check/leave the stroller and put the carseat on "wheelie" cart. Make sure it's all metal and there is a gadget sold that fits several carseats. http://www.amazon.com/Gogo-Kidz-Travelmate/dp/B000MWZWV8 It's available on other sites too but that's just to show you what it is. I've done fine with an *all metal* cart and extra bungee cords. My old wheelie from my first airline found a second life by carting carseats!

3. Make sure you have a good carrier for your baby. Forget those fiddly Bjorns and use a wrap, sling or pouch. A Mei Tai or something like an Ergo carrier works well too. Carriers should last to at least 2 years. My 3 year old can still go in her sling. Great for calming babies onboard or getting sleeping children off the aircraft. Check out http://www.peppermint.com or http://www.kangarookorner.com for ideas (I don't work for those sites-they actually represent multiple companies).

4. In baggage claim, load the bags, put the carseat on the top along with any hand luggage and the stroller and push it *all* while the baby goes in the carrier. I've managed alone through customs and two other children this way.

For the record, I've never used a skycap. They're not used for international but use one if available. Tip well so that they'll be nice to the next family ;)

What I do with the backpack is that I wrap diapers, extra clothes, etc. and rubber band them to make room. I bring a cloth bag (the kind you buy in grocery stores as an alternative to plastic and paper) and use that onboard for diaper changes, etc. (so I'm not hauling the whole backpack around). I simply put what I need for each trip to the lav.

I have an article on flying with children that I put on a blog to share with other parents. It's totally non-commercial and sort of my own personal Mitvah. Feel free to check out;
http://flyingwithchildren.blogspot.com for more details on carseats, packing, booking and other tips.

Otherwise, have a good trip (and be grateful you don't have to face Customs!)

What kind of double stroller is better?

mamaof2

i have a 3 year old and a 1 year old. i've been looking at double strollers, but i don't know what to get. i really like the sit and stand strollers, but i don"t know if it would be better to have a side by side stroller so that my kids can see each other. any advice?

Answer
Go to a store and try them out. Look at weights and weight-limits. Consider the ages of your kids. My son was 18 months before I decided I needed a double-stroller... until then he rode in an Ergo on me, and then my daughter wanted to ride on my back so he would ride in the stroller and she would walk until tired, then I'd put her in the Ergo on the backpack position. Tiring for me, but she liked it and would jabber nonstop in my ear since I was so close I could hear every little word from her.

When my son turned 2 and I found out I was pregnant that was it. Need a double-stroller. I tried them out and found that I liked the Baby Trend "Navigator" double stroller, but the cost ($200+) was a lot. Oddly enough I found one at a secondhand store a few months later, $100. What I didn't check was the weight of the stroller... I really didn't think this one through enough. I love the cushioning in it for them, love the design, but it doesn't go through doorways, weighs 40+lbs (note, the light-weight double-strollers weigh only 10lbs less...) on it's own (add in my daughter at 31lbs and my son at 28lbs and you're pushing 100lbs!), and because of the weight it's holding the bar in the middle looks like it will eventually sag and give way. :( The problem with side-by-sides (I'm learning by experience here) is that the instructions say that the kids need to be of close to equal weight too, or else you'll have problems. Not an issue with my small daughter and average son, they're pretty close in weight even though there's a 2 year difference, but your kids may have a greater difference. Once they're seated, they're not going to be looking at one another anyway.

Honestly if I was to do it again I'd look at something more like this. It runs $400-500 though, but you can put a seat in the lower-position as well as a running-board (so you can have it be a stand-alone for your toddler as she gets older, or she can climb into a lower seat.) But to me it looks far more maneuverable as far as what your options are and when your 3 year old is ready to walk all the time you can leave the second seat at home. I'm not sure what I'll have to do with Monstro when I'm down to one rider.

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where can i print iron on letters for a tshirt I am making?

baby backpack project image

Dawn

I am making tshirts for my children's football and cheerleading. I am looking for a website that I can use to print the lettering on to iron on transfers. Please help

Answer
There are some of the local craft stores that have what what you want. You may also want to check Joann.com

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What should I get for 7th grade?

Ok I know this is a very stupid question but what do you recommend for 7th grade? Asking this becuase I was really unprepared for 6th grade and did not do very well. I also know that middle school is much harder then elementary school. I also won't be "babied" by my parents so I need to be more responsible. And any good tips on how to survive this year let me know!

Answer
The only stupid questions are the ones you don't ask.
As in school supplies?

Backpack- Get one with at least 4 compartments.
Lunch Box- I hate school lunch.
Folders- They keep your papers organized. Get one for every class (except gym and elective) and one for your locker, so papers don't pile up.
Pencils- 24, just to make sure you have enough. But don't take them all to school you will lose them.
Pens- Black, blue, and red.
Pencil Pouch- They keep your writing things in one place. 2 Compartments, one for pencils, one for erasers, so your lead doesn't get all over your erasers.
Pencil Sharpener- Good to have.
High Lighters- Helps organize your notes(key points highlighted) and agenda (assignments highlighted)
Erasers- The white ones work best.
Glue- Elmer's
Glue Sticks- Elmer's
White Out- The tape works better, you don't have to wait for it to dry if you are writing notes quickly.
Ruler- Get the bendy one, the regular plastic ones will shatter in your backpack.
Color Pencils- For projects, fun in class assignments.
Markers- For projects, fun in class assignments.
Scissors- Good to have.
College Ruled Paper- Most teachers like this type.
Tape- Good to have.
Stapler- Good to have.
Locker Shelf- Helps organize books and notebooks.
Pencil Holder- To put a few extra pencils in.
Magnets- To hang up important papers, or pictures.
White Board- To jot down things you need to remember.
Notebooks- To take notes!
Sharpies- Don't need them, but I like them.
Book Covers- To protect your books from damage.
Alarm Clock- So you don't have to rely on mom!


This is my school supply list, but your teachers may want you to get other supplies. So get the basics from this list, and wait to buy the rest.

Tips:
Stay on top of your assignments.

Do your homework now, not in five minutes, not tomorrow.

Study for tests.

Study with a friend or parent. Better than studying alone.

Don't get into trouble. Being in the office all the time will affect your grades.

You'll survive this year, don't sweat it. But there will be more drama because every ones hormones are going crazy.

Use common sense!


Good Luck

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What the heck is the point of surviving?

baby backpack on bike image

lalaland

If I didn't have to work or go to school to survive and I had a lot of disposable cash..
I probably wouldn't be asking this because I would be able to do whatever I wanted..
But I don't, and I'm probably going to be stuck with 40+ hr work weeks when I grad from college..
And a pretty ordinary life.

Whats your motivation?
What the heck is the point? Nothing in this world appeals to me, it's all so illusory and empty.. nothing lasts.

Answer
Surfing.
Really good Mexican Food.
Icy cold mountain lakes high up in the Sierras on a hot August day.
Catching a trout in aforementioned mountain lake after backpacking in 15 miles.
Sunset over the Pacific Ocean parked anywhere on Hwy 1 along the California coast.
Playing footsie with the one you love under the table at Thanksgiving and knowing that later on when the lights go out behind closed doors...
Wakeboarding.
Jumping off the boat into just-right water temp on a hot summer day.
Adorable children sneaking strawberries behind mommy's back.
Funny kitty purring when he finds you and snuggles up next to you on a cold winter night.
Sweet baby kisses from a sleepy baby at bedtime.
Sweet husband kisses first thing in the morning when you first wake up.
Driving a pickup truck along country roads.
Miles of wildflowers.
Warm, colorful quilts to snuggle under.
Beef stew in the crockpot.
Sailing at full sail on a beautiful balmy day to any island in any ocean.
Standing under a waterfall on a hot August day in a swimming hole found in a creek in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Lake Tahoe.
A perfect, sun-ripened nectarine picked right from the tree.
Riding a horse at full gallop.
Sea, salty air, wind, waves, a cold drink in your hand, and you go and jump in to cool off whenever you feel like it.
A hot fire in the fireplace, a pot of chili on the stove, smooth jazz on the radio, and a happy love next to you on the sofa.
Making out under a picnic table in a campground in the desert, in the back of a pickup in a campground in the mountains, next to the river after skinny dipping, making waves in a "no-wake zone"...and other places not to be named to protect my reputation.
On the fifty-yard line with the marching band playing my lungs out while a full-stadium crowd cheers a huge loud roar.
College football, NASCAR, country music, and tailgating at any of those events.
A ham sandwich on a bakery roll while on a picnic at the lake, the beach, the river, the park, while skiing, during a bike ride in Yosemite.
Sitting in a hot tub at the end of a hard day's work as a ski-lift operator at a ski resort.
Roller-coaster mountain roads in a pickup truck to go skiing, fishing, camping, etc.
I could go on and on.
Where have you BEEN, dude?

Can I bring my iPhone to the airshow at andrews airforce base, MD?

Ariel

Will my son be able to bring his iTouch?

Answer
Allowed Articles/Items
Small Coolers (Medical Purposes Only)
Fanny Packs
Purses
Camera Bags (Smaller then 1 cubic foot)
Diaper Bags
Portable Lawn Chairs
Collapsible strollers
Umbrellas
Prohibited Articles/Items
All other Coolers (Hard or Soft, unless medically required)
Backpacks
Camelpacks
Narcotics and Paraphernalia
Camera Bags (Larger than 1 cubic foot)
Roller Blades, Skates, and Skateboards
Weapons (including, but not limited to knives, firearms, explosives, bio/radiological substances)
Bikes
Pets
All Food
Beverages, Open or Closed (except baby formula)
No Political Activity

It does not say that phones or ipods are prohibited.

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Overly prepared mommy? Is there such a thing? What am I missing?

baby backpack carrier prices image

Heather R

I'm currently 34 weeks along with my first baby (my little boy)

I was told by my doctor I was no longer able to have children after a miscarried at 16 weeks 5 years ago, so this baby came as a total shock! Me and my husband are over the moon about it! I didn't even know I was pregnant until I was 26 weeks along! I think that is making me go a little crazy in anticipation of Henry, but go with me here...

I'm trying to finish up his room before he arrives, and I just keep thinking that I don't have everything I need. Mommy's or mommy's to be out there please help put my mind at ease, what do you need for a baby room to make sure you are prepared for the first months?

Ive got a lot of things but I still feel like I'm missing things I will need! Ive read tons of baby books about how to prepare and what I will need but I want some opinions from real people.

Any advice would be good. Thanks!

Answer
The truth is you and your baby would be fine with very little-it is mostly about what you are comfortable with and what things you want. It's totally normal to go overboard with your first-especially in your situation-I bought SO MANY useless things when I was pregnant with my son! Now that I'm having my second, in my opinion the bare minimum (besides clothes and diapers):

*something for the baby to sleep in [crib, bassinet, etc]
*infant carseat
*a bouncer OR a swing [most babies will like one OR the other and both ends up being a waste!]
*a form of baby mover/carrier [sling, stroller, however you want to pack them around when they're not in the car]
*baby bath [because most likely the sink will make you paranoid....but if you don't think it will you don't absolutely need it]

There's a LOT of other stuff you can get, but if that was all the accessories you had you would be just fine changing the baby on the floor, using a regular pillow instead of a special "nursing" pillow, using a backpack to haul baby supplies, using regular washclothes and soap instead of special baby stuff...there's a lot of things out there are packaged for new moms because companies know that new moms will buy ANYTHING to feel prepared for their baby...don't get sucked in by "special" (often over priced) things unless you really want them!

Congrats on your baby boy!

whats a good sling for a summer baby?

two july b

What's a good baby sling to use for a summer baby?
comfy and cool...i also have a 2 yr old so ill need something sturdy while im chasing my first kid. is the sling the same as a carrier? should i get one of each or one that can hold a newborn and an older baby?
thank you were about the same height but i weigh more..

Answer
the two most important things to ensure a good carrier/sling is: SIze of the Parent, and Weight of the Child. A great sling will be of no use if it doesn't fit.

price was not an issue to me so I can't remember what I paid for what, but you can find most of these on eBay if you are not picky regarding the color.

I have purchased (and been given) a total of maybe 6 slings and carriers. Heres my review of them
btw my Post partum weight /height is 126# 5'7"
(I will rank them at the end)

HOTSLING - I got size 3 (way too big for me) and my son hate it, always did, from 8 wks old, at 4 months old, he freakin hates it. My sister is very small (5'1" and about 110#, she bought size 1 and her son enjoyed the ride there). pros - very compact for travel, lightweight. cons - one adult arm is constrained so your are limited (can't fold laundry etc); and my son hated it but it was the wrong size and he fell too low.

MY BABY NEST (available at www.babiesrus.com online) - this uses the concept of a wrap around tie sling but you don't have to tie it. you just slip your arms though and wrap the waist belt around you and under your babies bum. (I got a medium, and even called the company rep and she told me she was the same size as me and she uses a medium). Again, I needed the small. My son sinks too low and it pulls on my shoulders and back. THIS IS PROBABLY THE BEST TYPE WRAP SLING THAT DOESN'T HAVE TO BE TIED OR WRAPPED EACH TIME. It's a pretty amazing little invention, just get a size smaller than you think you are b/c the spandex material is very very stretchy. Pros - comfortable for both mommy and baby if you get the right size, baby can be worn front, back and hip. cons - material stretches out after about 10 minutes of wearing. My husband also says it looks gay and he won't wear it.

SLEEPY WRAP - also a great wrap and my son actually likes this one. It's not that difficult to tie but does take some practice. The pros: comfortable for baby, can wear front/back/side, and one size fits all. Can accommodate toddlers as well as infants cons - also stretchy material, cant' really wear more than 30 min

SlingLing - nice and cool. some babies/parents don't feel secure with it

BABY BJORN - structured type carrier, pros - simple on/off. I can do it without other adult helping. my husband will wear it. baby worn in front but can face parent or outward. cons - not as comfortable for parent when baby weighs 20 pounds or more. can't wear on back. has metal in the clips so you have to take it off when you go through metal detectors at airport.

DEUTER - a great concept if you are over 5'7" tall. I am right on the borderline of this being comfortable. it's basically a backpack that has a seated compartment for an infant/up to maybe a 24month old. Pros - don't have to carry a separate diaper bag, Baby sits in more of a seat like position, good for Disneyland / going on long hikes where you don't want to carry a purse/other bags. Cons - not for short people, or even average height person, also remember it has a full back pack built in. This is a bit of overkill for just puttering around the house.

AND THE WINNER IS:
Ergo Baby Carrier.

Pros - baby can be worn front side and back, newborns (with special insert) and 3 yr olds fit comfortably in it. can purchase a separate small backpack to attatch to the carrier
very comfortable to both parent and baby

cons- it's kinda thick but that's what makes it comfortable. They were designed in hawaii and it's pretty hot there so I think it's ok for summer use.

some people complain about the price. I say better to buy one good one than go through 5 others before you find this one (but in all honesty the My Baby Nest one is awesome but I was just told the wrong size to buy - mis informed by customer service employee).

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My daughter and 18 month old Grand daughter are flying to Hong Kong in a few weeks?

baby backpack carrier hong kong image

amfound2

Any ideas how to keep a small child amused on a flight lasting almost 12 hours?

Answer
I'm a former Flight Attendant who used to be based in Hong Kong. I flew for 13 years and now fly a lot with my own kids since each was 4 months old.

Both at work and when I flew, I found this age to be the most difficult. Toddlers love to roam, hate being confined and don't usually understand concepts like "You'll have to stay seated but soon you can get up".

Our flights are almost as long, 11 1/2 hours. What I find that works are
-anything coloring related, even simple paper and crayons
-a backpack that they pick their favorite toys
-a new toy which I keep and show them onboard.

Don't depend on the airline to give you something. The age might not be appropriate and many airlines have cut those toys out of the budget.

I will say that I don't think a portable DVD player is that great an idea for such a young child. Will she wear the headphones? Can she watch it without sound? Will it really hold her attention for long enough to justify dragging such a heavy object onboard? Will she not spill anything on it or drop it?

For such a long flight, the DVD player would have to have a battery life of at least 5 hours, better more since it's not possible to recharge them onboard. If your daughter thinks it's a good idea, she better try it with your granddaughter at home first.

Just some general tips, I really recommend bringing her car seat and using it onboard. This works great for toddlers and I have had to strap an unhappy little person down more than once. Holding such a big baby in a lap for such a long flight wouldn't be too comfortable and the only way to fly safely with her is if she is strapped into her own seat onboard. Children under 2 are allowed on most airlines because the chance of anything happening are so slim but if something does occur, these children aren't protected.

If you're flying a U.S. airline, here is the relevant page;
http://www.faa.gov/passengers/fly_children/crs/
The CARES harness pictured above might be a good alternative if the car seat is not needed in Hong Kong;
http://www.kidsflysafe.com/

If you're flying a non-U.S. carrier, check your airlines' website to see if your car seat will be accepted.

If a seat is not booked for your grandchild, see if they can put an extra seat next to them, if the flight's not full.

Both of you keep an eye out for her at all times. Two of my toddlers loved to run into crowds at airports.

Bring a change of clothes and about 1/3 more of everthing than you think will be needed. Put them in plastic bags and rubber band them to save space in luggage.

Advise your daughter to learn to change your granddaughter standing up. Try this at home first! Toddlers are usually too big for airline changing tables and they hate lying down in strange places anyway. This trick will mean not having to hunt down the changer and she can use the handicapped lav during the flight.

About 8 years ago I wrote an article on this subject for a local expat newsletter. Over the years, I expanded it and put it on a blog to share with other parents, many of whom have contributed. I wanted a non-commercial place on the net where parents could get both practical *and* professional information.
http://flyingwithchildren.blogspot.com

I also recommend a backpack or other carrier. Hong Kong is very crowded and sometimes a stroller is not the best idea. If you ride the MTR, it'll be very useful as those stations are very deep with a lot of escaltors.

Make sure you all visit the restroom and your granddaughter's diaper is changed before the very long ride from Chep Lak Kok into central Hong Kong. It's way out there!

Hope you all will be there during Chinese New Year. It's really an experience!

Have a great time!

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Why do African Americans where those childish backpacks with Spiderman, Dora the explorer, etc?

the best baby backpack image

Lucifer

There are lots of them at my school, I was wondering why they wear such baby backpacks?

Answer
I've never seen any black people where I live doing that. Maybe just a silly trend in your town. I remember back in the 90's they hung pacifiers around their necks and I thought it was ridiculous. But I think every race and person makes a bad fashion choice at one point or the next. You grow up and you change.

Maybe you should go up to one of them and ask. Let me know -lol

Here's a thought, I know when I was in school, some kids thought it was too dorky to carry their backpacks or folders around, so they'd bring those flimsy pee-chee folders and roll them up. Maybe they think that by wearing childish backpacks it's kind of the same thing. Like if you have to carry a bunch of books around, might as well make a joke out of it. Like "I don't need to wear a big backpack because I'm not a nerd, so instead I'll wear this kid's backpack because I don't take school serious"

Things to do with a 14 month old baby in Hawaii?

Sandy C

We're traveling to Hawaii in April with our baby girl who will be 14 months. We're going to all the islands and I don't know what activities we'll really be able to do while there. We live in Miami so the beach isn't the main attraction for us. I purchased a baby carrier/backpack and an all terrain stroller to get around. Is there any hiking to do with a tough stroller? Carrying the baby for a month on our backs will not be easy. Any suggestions?

Answer
There are some easy hikes on Oahu that might be doable with a heavy duty stroller, boomer gal has one idea. Thereis also Koko Head (by Hawaii Kai) and Makiki Valley (which is wide enough as it is used every day heavily). Also Diamond Head is doable (not the rougher areas). There is a Children's Discovery Center nearer to downtown that would be fun and it features Hawaiana. There is also the Bishop Museum which might be interesting for a child.

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Where do I find cute backpacks for middle school?

baby backpack target image

twilight f

I am trying to find a cute backpack for middle school and I was hoping it would be maybe a baby blue or a pink but if it isn't thats okay

Answer
Nearly every department store these days have school backpacks, but to name a few besides the Mall in general, you can try Kohls, Walmart, Kmart, sporting goods stores, Dillards, Target, Sam's Club, COSCO, JC Penny, and many more I am sure. Nearly everywhere have them. You may also want to try Ross or Marshalls for good quality at a cheaper price.

Can you all recommend a good diaper bag for me?

Sweet Sout

I'm due in march and I have a 1 year old right now so I'll need a diaper bag that functions for 2 babies at once. Any good suggestions?? Links are greatly appreciated!!!!! :-)
Oh yeah, and both are boys so nothing too girlie! :)

Answer
I recommend a Lands End bag. Whether you choose a little Tripper, Do-it-all or backpack it will be reasonably priced and high quality. Right now they have a color of Do-it-all on sale for 24.50 and it's easy to find free shipping codes online. I have been ordering Lands End for years and am consistently impressed with their quality. The best part is, especially if you pick up that $25 one, it costs the same as a nice one from Wal-Mart or Target, has way more features and is guaranteed.

The guarantee means that If the zipper breaks, if the fabric tears, or the seam rips (for any reason) you can tell Lands End customer service and they will send you a new one! This means no worrying about wearing it out or slinging it around everywhere. If you wear it out, they'll replace it at no cost to you!

It's rugged, has a super 30 inches long, cushy changing pad, lots of pockets and pouches, and can be monogrammed for only $5 extra. How could you go wrong?

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What is a good baby carrier / backpack to buy?

best baby backpack rei image

PF32

Ideally I would like something that will last a year of growth, not just a couple months.

Answer
REI Kids Only Piggyback

I'm normally a cheapskate (not a REI snob), but this pack is worth the extra money and then some.

I've carried my children from infancy through at least 3 to 4 years old in this thing.

I just had a "bonus baby" a couple months ago (my oldest started college last month). Thankfully, I kept the old Piggyback.

Despite the abuse from several previous children, the pack still in great shape and it will get used another 3-4 years (if my poor old body can stand it!).

What's the best way to prevent blisters on your feet while hiking?

dcsportbik

Getting ready to hike down (and up) the Grand Canyon and don't want to run the risk of any blisters on my feet. Any clever ideas as to how to prevent them from occuring?

Answer
I have done a lot of Grand Canyon hiking and have experimented with a number of blister prevention techniques. This is one of those areas with a lot approaches and everybody seems to have their favorite.

I personally have had the best luck with putting Spyroflex blister pads on the most likely spots before I start hiking. Spyroflex pads are a very thin membrane sheet (similar to the latex part of a bandaid) that stays on pretty well, can last for several days and is waterproof. Spenco sells a very similar item called Second Skin. Both can be found at REI and most outdoors type stores. Make sure your foot is dry and clean before you put them on and ensure that you get it on as flat as possible with no wrinkles. I did a two week backpacking trip using those and was the only in my group to not get a single blister.

The main thing is that you want a covering that is very thin and will stay in place (duct tape and athletic tape can also be used, but the above Spyroflex and Second Skin allow your skin to breath better). I have never had much luck with Moleskin or similar 'padded' products as they always seem to instantly get pulled off and stuck to my sock within a mile.

Other techniques which I have tried (and others that I know swear by) including putting a bit of baby powder in your sock (seems to work, but can be messy) and wearing a smaller liner sock inside your main sock (I always ended up feeling like my feet were suffocating even in cool weather).

As others above have mentioned, probably the most important thing is that you want to make sure that you have boots that fit you properly and are well broken in (and your feet are used to) before you start. This can eliminate a lot of blister and soreness problems before they even start.

Also, as soon as you start to feel any sort of friction or a place where a blister might be forming (a 'hot spot') you should stop and take care of it (put some sort of pad or protection on the area) immedately - don't wait until you have a full fledged blister before you do something about it.

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Things to do with a 14 month old baby in Hawaii?

baby girl backpack image

Sandy C

We're traveling to Hawaii in April with our baby girl who will be 14 months. We're going to all the islands and I don't know what activities we'll really be able to do while there. We live in Miami so the beach isn't the main attraction for us. I purchased a baby carrier/backpack and an all terrain stroller to get around. Is there any hiking to do with a tough stroller? Carrying the baby for a month on our backs will not be easy. Any suggestions?

Answer
There are some easy hikes on Oahu that might be doable with a heavy duty stroller, boomer gal has one idea. Thereis also Koko Head (by Hawaii Kai) and Makiki Valley (which is wide enough as it is used every day heavily). Also Diamond Head is doable (not the rougher areas). There is a Children's Discovery Center nearer to downtown that would be fun and it features Hawaiana. There is also the Bishop Museum which might be interesting for a child.

What do I need to pack in my babies diaper bag?

zackncats

I am having a baby girl and I need to know what to pack in her diaper bag.

Answer
The other people gave a good list of items. One lifesaver for me was a container with small disposable bags for when a poop happens at a friends house.

Advice: Make an emergency bag and throw it in the trunk of your car. I filled up a backpack with water, individual formula packets, a couple bottles, diapers, wipes, a roll of paper towels (trust me, it comes in handy) extra clothes, sunscreen, snacks, ect. Unless you have a diaper bag the size of a shopping cart, you just can't carry everything around. My advice, take a small diaper bag with just the essentials and have the other bag for backup. Afterall, you will forget things from time to time.

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What do I buy?

baby backpack stroller combo image

Q. Ok....I'm new at this and I'm trying to figure out how much money to put away to buy this stuff. I need to buy EVERYTHING and I'm trying to put together a list. Is there anything major I'm excluding that you can think of that a newborn baby will need?

For the nursery:
-Crib & Bed Combo
-Bookshelf
-Crib Sheets
- Rocking Chair
-Change Table
-Dresser
-Lamp
-Laundry Hamper
-Mobile

For the baby:
-Sling/Backpack to hold the baby
-Stroller/Car Seat Combo
- Play pen
-Diapers, Diaper Bag, Dirty Diaper Bin
-Bottles, Pacifiers
-Plates, Cutlery
-Toys/Swing
-Baby Monitor
-Blankets
-Clothes, Shoes
-Bathroom Stuff (Shampoo, Towels, Baby Powder etc.)
-High Chair
-Stair Guards
-Plugs for the electrical sockets and baby-proof hooks for the cupboards
-Food

Thanks everyone :-)
Thanks

Answer
Ok, First off, take the changing table off your list! People don't use them and they just take up space! You can get a nice thick changing pad that you can put on top of a dresser and change the baby there! Truly the only things you need to bring a baby home is, a car seat, a crib and sheets, bottles if you don't breast feed, blankets and sleepers!! The rest is just extra's that may make somethings easier, but also can clutter up a home! You don't need a high chair until baby is 6 months old, no solids before then!! Shoes are mean until baby is learning to walk, stair and plug guards aren't needed until baby learns to move!! They sell A LOT of stuff now for babies that are not needed and just fill a house up with crap!!

Pcs'ing to Hawaii with kids & newborn and Need help!?

SESw4

My husband has just gotten orders (as many people are getting right now) and we are moving to Hawaii. This will be our farthest PCS so far. We have 3 kids aged 9,8,and 3 and when we finally fly, we will also have an 8wk old baby too. I haven't flown in years, since about 2000, and never flown with kids. While Im not worried about our older ones, Im very concerned about flying with the newborn. We are out of Ft. Campbell KY so it will be a very long flight with a few layovers. Can someone tell me how to best prepare for this? I know there are many new guidelines when flying and such so I want to make sure I do everything right. Am I allowed to have baby bottles with water in them to make for easier mixing? Can I bring a playpen/bassinet combo (its in its own fold and store bag) as a checked bag under the plane? Am I allowed to bring the baby in a travel system stroller (carseat stroller combo)? What is the general wait time for housing to become available? We are on the list for a 4br. Wanted a 5br but we were told it would take much longer for that to become available so we went with a 4br instead. How are the schools there? Are they advanced, comparable, or behind to the main states?

Im sorry if this is a lot. I know literally nobody that has gone there with little ones. Only came home with new ones. ;) lol Im such a planner and want to make sure Im organized are ready for any scenario. Thanks in advance!!
Thank you for your answer. Unfortunately we dont have any specific details as far as airlines goes. Since we are military, we will have them pay for the tickets and everything rather than us pay and wait to get reimbursed. We dont get a say in where we can stop and room for the night or things like that. If we were making our own arrangements, we would be able to but since we aren't its not up to us. I tried looking at some of the airlines the Army uses, ie Delta, but saw no specific details as far as carry on liquids or amounts or anything. Since we are on a waitlist for on post housing, I was trying to establish some sort of general time frame so I know how much to pack clothes wise for my kids.

Sorry for any confusion, I should have clarified a bit better. I do appreciate your feedback though! Thanks!! :)
Thank you for your answer. Unfortunately we dont have any specific details as far as airlines goes. Since we are military, we will have them pay for the tickets and everything rather than us pay and wait to get reimbursed. We dont get a say in where we can stop and room for the night or things like that. If we were making our own arrangements, we would be able to but since we aren't its not up to us. I tried looking at some of the airlines the Army uses, ie Delta, but saw no specific details as far as carry on liquids or amounts or anything. Since we are on a waitlist for on post housing, I was trying to establish some sort of general time frame so I know how much to pack clothes wise for my kids.

Sorry for any confusion, I should have clarified a bit better. I do appreciate your feedback though! Thanks!! :)

Answer
Hey, welcome to Hawaii, ok? You know, you gonna be fine, you gonna love it here Hawaii, sound like you come to Oahu, and that very good place to live, here some help for you, maybe set you mind at ease, ok? You gonna love beach, ocean and layback style of Hawaii, yeah?
Fly with kids: No problem, little one gonna be ok, just plan ahead for formula, TSA gonna let you bring some powder formula, and airline furnish you with bottle water for baby, and they heat it too, if you want, ok, so no problem there. Cannot depend that TSA will let you bring more than 4 ounces of liquid, but, each kid can bring up to 4 ounces too, ok? So divide up you formula, put in kid backpack, and that help out, ok? Also, bring some snacks for kids, cause airline food stinky, yeah? Here what I suggest, you gonna be come in warm weather, sound like, so dress alla kid light, with carry on jacket/hoodie cause sometime get cold on airplane, and back pack or roll around carry on for each kid as carry on, with snack, some game for each kid, and for 3 year old, coloring book, if they like that sort thing, something new kid not have before, ok? Now you got 9 and 8 year old, make them responsible for 3 year old, they do good job, cause they troopers, yeah? Make sure you check in luggage, but also in backpack they have change of undies, and maybe one change cloths, also, you carry all meds you need for all kids in you purse, ok? Put you own needed stuff in 8 and 9 year old back pack, cause they carry you stuff too, make it easier for you, yeah? Make sure 8 and 9 year old have all info they need to help you, they gonna be great help, ok? Now, you gonna need diapers, and wipes for baby, that ok, alla airline gonna have backup wipes, just make sure you have plenty wipes, ok? If you got game boy, or ipod or whateva for older kids to do while waiting, and try best you can to make just few layover, cause time weigh heavy on kids, yeah? Remember 4 ounces or less, put everything in clear baggie, and not too many thing in baggie, so lotta baggies, cause TSA like to see stuff in bags, yeah? And leave alla sharp object in check in bags, ok? Good idea to have drill, and dry run, hey you inna military, you know bout that, yeah?
Carseat stroller, no problem you just check it at door of plane when you get on, just make sure you have all stuff that you carry in stroller separate in bag or back pack, cause airline frown on lotta junk in stroller they check, ok? Anything like playpen in own bag can be checked long as it don't exceed weight, but in coach you gotta pay for extra bags, ok? Now, you gonna need help when you go to airport, so get someone to take you and help you with check in bags, get boarding passes ahead of time online, then check bags at curbside, that way you can go direct to security, yeah?
Try to arrange flite so that few deplane as possible, here just a suggest, fly outa Nashville, Tenn, take Southwest, non stop to Las Vegas, you can arrive Vegas at bout 4:30, before you leave tell airline you gonna need skycap to take you, kids, and luggage to Hawaiian at Terminal 2, They have non-stop at 6:15, to Honolulu, you arrive by 9:30 local time, now kids probly sleep most of way from Vegas, maybe you too, but you make it with minimum of down time, also, traveler aid VERY big in Vegas, specially for mom and kids of service personnel, in case you have trouble, Skycap take you and alla kid and luggage so no problem with that cause SWA not too swift at transfer of luggage, ok?, Hawaiian very kind to kids, and include pretty good(hey I say good not great, ok) meal at no extra cost, ok? Also have great service mans discount, too, yeah? Now you can do same thing on otha airline thru San Francisco, LA, or Seattle, but this I know work, cause did it myself, but that up to you, ok?
Schools, well you know we hear all kinda thing bout school here, but you know that most important part of kid education what happen at home, and you sound like kinda mommy that make sure kid get good stuff for education, ok? Hawaii spend a lotta money on school system, but you know all state rite now kinda have budget problems, so same hea Hawaii, but some great schools and great school teacher here too, so you be suprised, kids gonna do fine, ok?
Base housing, well I hear all kinda story bout that, but here the thing, you gonna get good house cause alla base housing I see here pretty nice, and you should have something within 1 month, in meantime, you can get nice place to stay off base, live out of suitcase, etc, you done before, cause you Army Wife, yeah? Hey, pretty soon, alla kid be talk just like me, YEAH? I just kid, I just old fat guy who too lazy to do anything otha than rite like I talk, ok? You gonna need famous kapaakid fried rice recipe, keep eye on YA, I give it again, you gonna love, ok?
Go army, and Peace and aloha to you from Hawaii!
Ok, I just read you update, you need to talk to you CTO/TMZ-c if u make it or them.

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Any suggestions for a backpack baby carrier?

backpack carriers for baby image

jveryrad

I have a very active 15month old daughter. She likes to grab objects and destroy them. She is difficult to bring to a store. Yesterday, I had to hold her while shopping in hardware stores because she insisted on opening packages or bottles if I let her down. The shopping carts can be very dirty in a hardware store.

Does anyone use a backpack baby carrier for their toddlers for shopping? I don't do much hiking, and I use a stroller to take her on walks. So I would just use it to take her where I don't want her to run around.

Is it safe to get into? Is there a risk of dropping her while putting the backpack on? Any other uses for this? Any suggestions for brands? I heard Tough Traveler is good. Thanks.

Answer
I love my backpack for shopping, and I can still carry my soon to be 3 year old. This is the one I have http://www.mec.ca/Products/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524441776409&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302735239&bmUID=1160421939450 . We bought it almost 5 years ago when our oldest was the right size for it. It still looks brand new. I used it for shopping and long walks, my husband uses it for hiking. Have fun!

What baby backpack carrier have you used?

oceanxstas

I need to purchase a baby backpack type carrier for our upcoming vacation. My little one will be 14 months old by then. She currently weighs around 25 pounds. Suggestions, critiques needed. Thanks

Answer
We have a Patapum baby carrier - which can be both front and back carry.
It's a soft carrier, very comfortable for both myself and my partner to wear our 11.5 month old daughter (approx 24lbs.)

We have used snugglys and slings, and have tried wraps, but the carrier is our favourite (for an older baby especially) - as it positions their weight perfectly, and you can easily walk around for 2+ hours with no twinges or aches.

Comes in blue, black and khaki - we have the khaki.
http://www.attachedtobaby.com/Patapum-Baby-Carrier-P5.aspx

Couldn't recommend it enough.

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How Big should the overnight bag be?

backpack baby online image

Chase's Mo

Ok so I have my list from my doctor, and a few I printed from online. Looking at all the stuff that they are requesting I bring, it seems I am going to need a large suitcase for when I go into labor. Is this normal? I keep feeling like maybe I should only be bringing like a small backpack, but there is no way everything will fit into it.

Answer
Just bring about 2 outfits for the baby, mainly onesies, one for the hospital picture. Bring a pacifier, if you want, a couple of blankets and burp cloths, clothes your going home in, your deodorant, toothbrush, car seat, baby booties, and mits, and a hat, that's it. The hospital will have diapers, bottles if you chose to bottle feed, and the baby will have on hospital clothes, and socks, and hat. As you will have on a gown for the 2 days you are there, That is it. That's all I needed, plus my cell phone.

Where can I find BPA-Free Drinking Cups for Adults Online?

inaffitl

I keep searching for safe plastic everyday juice/water cups (not sippy cups or baby bottles) and all that comes up is cups for babies and children.

Answer
"...Adults can also turn to Thermos for BPA-free stainless steel bottles.
Thermos brand hydration bottles keep drinks cold for up to 12 hours, and
the sleek designs are conducive to a busy lifestyle -- fitting easily into
backpacks or car cup holders.

In addition to providing a safe and convenient alternative to bottles
containing BPA for children and adults alike, stainless steel containers
from Thermos use patented TherMax(R) vacuum technology to provide a
superior level of insulation, cutting the risk of foodborne illness in
beverages left unrefrigerated due to busy lifestyles.

For more information on these Thermos(R) products, please visit
http://www.thermos.com.

Additional information on the benefits of stainless steel and the
Thermos line of containers may be obtained by contacting Betsi Schumacher
at 312-755-6206 or via email at bschumacher@wheatleytimmons.com. "

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Why do parents put their kids on leashes?

best child backpack harness image

la_la_la

I have noticed that many parents at malls, entertainment parks, tourist attractions, and similar venues put their kids on what appears to be a leash. Usually, it's a contraption that has a front harness on the child and then a length of fabric or cord that the parents use to walk them.

I was at a tourist attraction over the weekend, and I noticed a child of about 3 years of age in one of these devices, and she kept falling down and getting tied up in the thing because her parents weren't paying attention. It was disturbing, to say the least.

I was just curious to see if there are any parents out there who use this device, and what the thought process is behind using it. If they have them on the market, obviously there's a need for such a thing, but I'm not getting it.

Does it hurt the child? Do you receive any dirty looks for using it when you go out? Do tell.

Answer
i plan to buy a leash for my son, but only to use in crowded places (airports etc)..the type that is like a monkey backpack with a clip in the front but it has a leash seems to be the best fit.
Bottom line, i trust my kids I JUST DON'T TRUST THE CHILD SNATCHERS OUT THERE...
I also do not undestand parents who use the leash as substitute for teaching their children right and wrong. This is not a crutch, you still need to pay attention to your child and teach them to stay close to you at all times. your child is still learning this (and him/her not knowing yet does not make them 'bad" or "poorly behaved") and needs to know that you trust them (so the leash should not be used 24/7).
it is like all things in life, with moderation and in the appropriate circumstances. I wish that our kids were growing up in a enviroment where said leashes are not needed...but until the day that child snatchers no longer exist, you need to take care of your kid as much as possible,
And personally, who care what other people think...it is not their kid.

Do I need a car seat for my 2yr old to be used in an airplane?

EVEC

We will be flying to Texas and I wanted to know if we are required to take a car seat?

Answer
It is never required to use a carseat. That is up to the parents for all ages. Airline seatbelts are not designed for little children and don't hold them very well.

I'm a former Flight Attendant and spent 10 years seeing and helping other parents fly with their kids before I had my own. Little did I realize that I'd be travelling with mine between Europe and California twice a year, plus shorter flights inbetween, virturally all alone. I've been doing this since my 8 year old was 4 months old. Almost all flights were with them in carseats. The only time I haven't was when I was prevented from doing so by foreign carriers.

I assume you're already in the U.S. and you'll be flying an American carrier. That wont happen to you. Since your 2 year old has a seat, you have the right to use a FAA approved carseat.

Check the one you already have for a FAA "sticker" which now is usually simply on the side information bar. Usually there's a little airplane and it says "...has been approved for use on aircraft..." etc. Most U.S. carseats are FAA approved. If it's not, which is unlikely, consider borrowing (trading?) or simply buy another. Good ones go for as little as $40.

I recommend this option over using a CARES harness, which isn't as secure and can only be used inflight. At $75, it seems steep for such a one-purpose gizmo but it's your money to spend as you wish!

Having the carseat onboard guarentees that the it wont be damaged or lost in baggage and you can use it right away when you leave the airport in Texas, assuming you'll be doing so by car. I had a bad experience with a car company rental seat and most Carseat techs don't recommend you use them (wish I had that bit of advice!)

Here's a link for you which shows the FAA approval writing and, if you scroll down, a picture of the CARES harness.
http://www.faa.gov/passengers/fly_children/crs/

To get it through the airport, you have several options. There are carseat bags which you can wear like a backpack. These didn't appeal to me, since I usually fly alone with my three. There is also the pricey GogoKidz cart;
http://www.go-baby.com/Products/gogokidz.html

It doesn't fit all carseats and is expensive at $80-90.

I simply put my carseat on a all-metal luggage cart (a souvenir of the first airline I worked for) and strapped my rather heavy Radian on with extra bungee cords. Worked great and didn't cost anything, since I found the bungee cord but they certainly don't set you back much if you need to buy one.

I have to say that at work, I heard fewer complaints about children who were in carseats than those traveling without them. It does seem to keep children calmer, since it's the right size and familar. It also keeps their feet above the annoying soft zone in airline seats, that kids seem to instinctively kick...(Put your hands on either side of the bottom of your airline seatback and you'll feel what I mean).

Meanwhile, since I get a lot of questions on this subject, I wrote up an article for the local expat community on flying with children. It's entirely non-commerical and I put it on a blog so that I could add to it and edit it more easily (the latter being my weakness). I can also share it better. Instead of cluttering this post up with information you didn't specifically ask for, visit;
http://flyingwithchildren. blogspot. com

Have a good trip!

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