… and then boarding a cruise ship. With my family. Including my toddlers. Whom I’ve NEVER traveled with before.
Oh. My. GAWD.
As you know, part of my job as a blogger is to attend relevant press events, trips and conferences. Sometimes, it’s the launch of a new product; sometimes, it’s a little bit of content inspiration that allows me to publish a better post. In the end, the information often helps me share with my readers in new and interesting ways.
This time, it’s a real-life example of how to make the best of a family vacation – courtesy of Fisher-Price – on a 7-day, Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas Cruise of the Western Caribbean.
Okay, first the obvious – I am so fortunate to have been extended this opportunity, and my family, along with the families of #FisherPriceMoms Play Ambassadors from Canada and the US, are thankful to Fisher-Price for arranging one of the most majestic press adventures ever. Truly, one of those moments where you feel rewarded for your efforts and blessed at the same time.
Second, the not-so-obvious – I am FREAKING OUT. My kids have never been on an airplane, much less a 17-deck ship. Combining the two activities together? Heart palpitations over here. Plus, being away from the comforts of home for over a week is also a little intimidating – believe it or not, the last time I left my house for more than 7 days was over 10 years ago!
And so I’ve done my best to consult packing lists, have made mental notes of the little things that my boys can’t do without (like Ryder’s blankie and Reid’s Little People) and I’ve asked friends and family who’ve traveled with kids to share their “must-haves”.
(So far, Children’s Gravol, Goldfish Crackers and LOTS of gummy treats tend to top the lists.)
Of course, Fisher-Price offered their own fabulous travel tips:
I’ve decided to do some “shopping” in Ryder and Reid’s old toys, and resurrect some of the faves they’ve long forgotten about. I’ve also made a note to hit our nearest dollar store this weekend and load up on simple toys and activity books – ones which I don’t mind getting lost, discarded or tossed overboard :)
Another must-have for my family? My laptop computer with a rolodex of their favourite movies, and my tablet pre-loaded with their preferred apps, of course. Sometimes a little extra screen time is necessary to keep my sanity levels in check!
We set sail in exactly 10 days – any tips for me? I can honestly use all the help I can get!
I am a Fisher-Price Play Ambassador and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group.
The opinions on this blog are my own.
Lena,
This year, my grandparents treated the entire family to a week-long Mediterranean Cruise. The youngest attendee was 10, so not exactly a toddler, but still young enough that she had to be kept occupied sometimes.
Our cruise ship was massive — 5,000 people when you add the passengers and crew together — and there was one day we couldn’t dock because the sea was too rough. Despite that, the ship didn’t feel small, even with all those people on it for the day.
We did day trips at every port, and I’d totally recommend that for you and yours as well. They can be pricey, but they’ll definitely knock out your kids for a nap when you get back on the ship early afternoon. It also allows you to visit more places in a short amount of time. So, while we flew to Rome and boarded there, we also got to spend time in Spain, Tunisia, Genoa, Sicily and would-have set foot on Malta, if the sea had co-operated.
I wouldn’t worry about the flight at all! A kid’s first airplane ride is so exciting for them! Maybe brush up on your plane knowledge so you can answer any questions, but just remember the first time you fly through a cloud is magical.
Have a great trip!
Sarah, thank you SO MUCH for the exceedingly awesome tips! It’s nice to know that you were able to feel comfortable on a large ship (and that it didn’t feel overcrowded). I will take your advice about the day trips for sure! Based on the itinerary, it looks like Fisher-Price has arranged some great ones :)
Happy to hear you had an excellent family vacation!
I am looking forward to this! So are the boys!!!
Good! It will be an adventure!
Wow, what an opportunity!
We just flew with the toddler (21m) this past week, and gravol was my friend (and his!) Also, the plane had Treehouse almost the entire time, and so that took a lot of the potential crazies away. I stocked up on some color-wonder booklets & markers in case he was antsy (yes, markers – crayons leave marks on planes…) and although we didn’t use them, i think i’ll save for the next trip.
good luck and have fun!
Thanks Michelle! Great to hear that Gravol definitely helps. And I’m crossing my fingers that Treehouse is available – what I lifesaver that would be! Will remember the tip about the markers ;)
hi Lena, the good thing is the trip will be children oriented it has to be a breeze ;)
I’ve travelled with my kids with one as young as 10 months through 5 yrs.
one thing I never go against us their natural schedule. I book flights when I know they would be at their best or start long drives when they would be tired and sleepy. But regardless of all the little things that can only be expected, I don’t sweat the small stuff :)
Have a wonderful trip !
Thanks for the solid, practical advice, Jenalin. It all makes sense!
JELOUS! Have fun. I wrapped a ton of little “presents” for the kids to open along the way. Then never needed them b.c they were damn angels :) Good Luck and enjoy!
Thank you Kyla! You’re the third or fourth person to mention wrapped mini presents – I know what I will be doing this weekend! Thanks!
My only advice is to RELAX!! Have fun, enjoy this super awesome opportunity, and don’t worry. There may be a melt-down or two, but no biggie – it’s just like at home, only in exotic settings. = )
Bringing old toys is a fav trick of mine! I like looking for a couple of new snacks along with the regulars, too – the kids were always excited for that.
Great advice Em! Will mix it up with the snacks – you’re right, new is exciting to young ones!
My tip: the sit down dinners can tend to be a long process especially for kids so check out the menu earlier in the day so you know what you want to order in advance. You can ask the waiter to bring out entrees at the same time as apps if needed and bringing a few quiet table activities might be a good idea too!
Have a great trip!
Amazing tip Deb – I’ll be sure to do that! Thank you!
Dried apricots and dried mangos are great for chewing on to avoid sore ears during takeoff and landing, if you want to cut down on the gummies and food dyes.
Excellent tip! I was wondering if I could give them something to chew without dosing them with too much sugar. Dried mangoes seem like a great alternative! Thanks Amanda!
Very lucky, enjoy your trip!
Thank you Margaret!
Congratulations!!! What a great opportunity for your family! I agree with Amanda’s suggestion ~ something to chew on the plane (especially before landing). We’re always chewing gum feverishly at that point – LOL I think the ship will seem like a big fun city for all of you :)
Have a great time!
Thank you Kat! I was worried about them chewing something at takeoff, but the consensus is to have them chewing as we land. Will have lots of snacks on hand!
Sounds like it will be a fantastic vacation!!
Bring lots of snacks and activities, ipads, movies etc…and gravol or benadryl!
Walkie talkies I heard are great for cruises for you and your husband to keep in touch whenever you are separated.
Buy a disposable camera or 2 for each of the boys so they can take their own pictures.
Depending on who you are flying with, check their website as they sometimes have a Kidsclub membership…nothing spectacular from an adult’s perspective but any little gifts like an airplane or a badge that has their name always makes a kid feel special! I know Air Canada has something like this.
Have fun…and enjoy!
Amazing Kathy! Thanks for the tip on the Kidsclub membership! We’re flying Air Canada so will look into this!
Ive never cruised but one of my first thoughts when traveling with little ones is – Laundry! How to deal with the inevitable spilled food, bodily liquid/solids, messy kidsclub crafts etc. Coin op laundry on your level? Security so your items dont walk away? or do you have to sit there with every load?
Doubtful you want your tiny cabin bathroom strewn with soaking or semi dried clothes. And doubt you want to bring 7 days worth of multiple changes of clothes for everyone!
Haha Lisa I had the same thought! The good news is that my boys are tiny so I can fit A LOT of extra clothing in their little suitcases :) But, you’ve reminded me to look into the laundry services! Thank you!
Actually, most ships have a laundry service on board. On my cruise ship, they charged by the item, or you could fill a paper bag with all the garments it would fit and there was no charge for that. My partner and I used our free was to get a head start on post-trip laundry!
Sarah, you’re a star. Thank you!
Definitely the gravol!! but also our portable dvd players are a must! anything arts and craft like and anything electronic.
but it’s only the flight these are all for, cause once you’re on the ship they will have tonnes to do!
good luck and enjoy!
Dawn I can’t find Children’s Gravol anywhere! AH!
Thanks so much – will stock up on the electronic gadgets!
I can’t even imagine!! It sounds super exciting & overwhelming at the same time, but I have a feeling it’ll go well for all of you!
Have a blast!
Thanks so much Anne! We will make the most of it!
Oh Wow! Have fun, I’m sure your kids are going to love it and remember it forever!
Fingers crossed, Huguette! Thank you!
I have no tips for you as I’m not great at travelling with kids. My oldest, then two year old, threw a fit on his first flight because he didn’t want to wear the seatbelt. The flight attendant had to buckle him while I held him down. Of course Dad wasn’t with us to shoulder half the emarrassment that day. My younger son cried through an entire 5 hour overnight flight the first time he flew (16 months old)… let’s just say we were on the receiving end of many, many dirty looks that day. I’m sure neither of these things will happen to you but if they do you just have to take deep breaths, apologize profusely and power through.
I’ve never been on a cruise but I can’t wait to live vicariousy through your family when you post about this awesome adventure!
Oooh, thanks for sharing your experience, Jonnie. I’ll make sure to take VERY deep breaths if the same thing happens!
WOW! That is so exciting – I can’t wait to hear all about it! Unfortunately, I have no tips for you, as I do not have children yet! I wish you luck though! I’m sure it will be great 99% of the time! My mom used to pack fun activity baskets for us when we travelled – it was always my favourite part!
Bon voyage!
I’ll be off in a few minutes to go grab the stuff for the activity baskets :) Thanks Nicole!
Oh my gosh cruises are so much fun! I will admit on the “at sea” days I can get a little restless. Nothing a little Scrabble tournament can’t take care of!
Indeed! Will be stocking up on games and apps today :)
That sounds so exciting. Enjoy and I know you will have great things to share and lots of pictures.
Thank you Tricha!
Sounds so much fun — you guys are going to have a blast!!!! Just one real tip — don’t forget the Gravol — FOR YOURSELF!!! I felt queasy the first night before I got my sea legs, and would have appreciated a little stomache stabilizer!! As for the rest — don’t fret. The kids will have so much to do you won’t believe it. These ships have so much going on — indoor and outdoor pools, rock-climbing walls etc., movie theatres, water parks etc. And I just looked at your ship — it also has a nursery and programming featuring Fisher Price activities — meaning you’ll have some place to dump them if you want to take in a show! Lol. Honestly, you’ll be so busy having fun you’ll wonder why you brought all the toys (although definitely bring some, and an iPad or portable tv player for the plane ride). As for meals — the great thing about cruise ships is that not only can you enjoy a sit-down meal, but they also have great buffets which are fantastic for kids. Instant gratification, lots of selection — and if cruise ships are known for one thing — it’s the food!!! (And we’d always sneak some out in my purse for snacks during the day when we were out and about — they’ve got plenty of things you can transport, from muffins to fruit etc.) As for day trips — I wouldn’t necessarily pay for many of them (but heck, go on them if they’re complimentary!). They are expensive and you can manage without boarding their coach buses with the kids. If you grab a travel book beforehand (ie. Fodor’s — I buy them used for next to nothing) they’ll tell you what to expect at each port city, and what you should check out. We did that all throughout Italy and Croatia and saw more than they offered on the expensive day trips (we only did one and never bothered after that). I know you’re going to have so much fun — so cool!!!
Thanks for all the amazing tips, Janice! Sound advice and lots of great insight. SO good to know about the Gravol too – I’m planning on taking 3 boxes with me, LOL.
I’ve heard about the food – and hence have planned my “skinny” outfits for the beginning of the trip, haha!
Sounds like an amazing trip! I agree with the above posters – Gravol is a must!
Thanks Crystal!
We have used sugar free organic lollipops too when flying as something to suck on can be good too. Love Color Wonder markers we use those things all the time when travelling. Lots of snacks and something to store them in that won’t result in your kids easily spilling them all over the place. We always bring our ipods and the kids have movies on their they can watch. Good luck and enjoy I am super jealous!
Great tip Tara, thanks so much! Will look for the lollipops this afternoon!
That must be so exciting! I’m sure you will have a fun time.
Thank you Shirley!
Such an amazing opportunity, and such a well-deserved trip for you and your family! As you’re panicking about all the unknowns of travelling with young children, think of all the times you’ve panicked over unknowns in the past and laughed at yourself afterward.
One run idea for the flight that I saw online last month was a couple travelling with a baby, who packed up ‘loot bags’ for the other passengers with candy in them and a note telling the passengers what to possibly expect while flying with a child. Such a cute idea!! Here’s the link: http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2012/09/06/crying-children-on-planes_n_1861399.html
You and Mike will have a great time, and the boys will be non-stop smiling. Can’t wait to hear all about it and see the photos over lattes :)
I remember reading that article and thinking – what a great idea! Thankfully I’ll be flying down with a few other #FisherPriceMoms so the plane will be full of young kiddos! Thanks Shauna!
Dress everyone in an easy-to-spot travel uniform.
Great tip! Thanks Adina!
You are so lucky! Enjoy this trip with your family, have fun and take care of your precious little boys! Look forward to get more feedback and pictures upon your return.
We will – thank you Marissa!
Oh wow. This sounds so awesome. Your family will love it. Hope you have a great time.
Too kind! Thanks a bunch, Jennifer!
WOW congratulations! That’s amazing. I hope you have a wonderful time.
Thank you Nicoline!
Well I don’t have kids and have never been on a cruise so unfortunately I don’t have any tips for you. We’re getting married in June and won’t wait long after that to start trying to start a family and would love to take my future kids on a trip like this so can’t wait to see how it goes! Have fun!
Thanks Tracy, I’ll be sure to let you all know about my experiences! And congratulations on your upcoming nuptials!
Oh wow! What a great experience for you and the family!
While I don’t have any tips for you, never having such an experience, I would say don’t stress yourself out. I think 90% of the time friends have expressed their worries about long distance travel with their young ones the kids have surprised them with how well they tolerated the trip.
Have a blast! :-)
Thanks for the sound advice, Soozle. Strangely enough, now that the trip is approaching, I’m actually starting to calm down about it!
Travelling by cruise can be somewhat challenging, especially with children. I found the following necessity items essential to calm the waters so to speak. So we could all enjoy the vacation together without a lot of discomfort and irritability. Gravol a must, sleeping stuffies and buddies, tums/rolaids. And something I never will forget on cruise *(from experience) Wet Wipes and I found a face atomizer spray worked great when overcome with a bout of sea sickness. Worked for us. Had a fantastic time as you will and have fun.
AMAZING tips Eva! Thanks so very much – the face atomizer makes so much sense! Will have to grab one of those for sure – I was looking at them in the drugstore the other day :)
Safe travels! You will have a great time, enjoy the time will go faster than you think.
Thanks Anne!
Enjoy every moment Lena! Take lots of Gravol, a few of their favourite toys from home, and pack a lot of patience for yourself!
Thank you Jolee! Gravol and toys I can do… patience, hmmm… let me see if I have any more of that!
Sounds like you got a lot of advice already… but reallly just enjoy! Go with the flow. Your kids are old enough that you can rationalize (somewhat) with them. There is SO much to do on a cruise ship that they will never be bored. Will it be relaxing travelling with kids?… not a chance… but your kids will have a blast and you will make some amazing memories! And most ships have “daycare” on them so perhaps you and hubby can have a quiet dinner one night :) ENJOY!!!!!
LOVE IT! Thanks so much for the great advice Sabrina! And yes, I fully intend on taking advantage of the daycare, ha ha!
woot, that is just super exciting! you’ll be fine! can’t wait to hear all about it when you get back
Thanks Jennifer! I think everything will be splendid… just nerves more than anything now :)
I’m so happy for you guys. It’ll be a memorable trip. We’ve been travelling with our kids since they were as young as 5 months old. Helpful Tips: Have the kids wear crocs to the airport (it’s easier for them to get them on/off when going through security). Have large ziplock bags handy and throw loose change, M’s wallet, watches, jewellry, etc. so they aren’t scattered allover their security bins. Most airlines have an express line for families for check-in, and you’ll get priority boarding. When it’s time to disembark the plane take your time so you don’t forget anything. If you’re bringing an umbrella stroller, you can wheel it right up to the plane and they’ll store it for you and bring it back up when you get to your destination, For the flight: Keep in mind the flight’ll only be about 4-4.5hrs.(bring cups that drinks can be poured into with lids/built-in straws so you don’t have to worry about spilling), one extra set of clothes for each of you, and a few items to entertain the boys. IPads/portable DVD’s were our go to gadgets. For you, pack an extra duffle bag that can be used later to hold all the dirty laundry so you can make room for all the new stuff you’re going to bring back:) If you’re anything like me, pack two! Have a great time.
May!!! Amazing tips – thank you so much! Never thought about the crocs at the airport (makes so much sense) and I love that you reminded me to pack extra clothes for everyone in the carry-on. You’re splendid!
Hi Lena,
As you know working as a Flight Attendant I can honestly say the best flights are when the parents come prepared. Bring snacks, juice boxes (check your airline but most kid things are exempted) & the best are old school board games, cards, colouring, etc…and if you plan to travel more often there are Travel Log Books that you can buy the kids which you hand over to the flight attendants & the pilots sign with miles travelled with destination. Cool keepsakes! Email me for more info if needed! xo
Amazing tips Monica – straight from the source! Thanks for offering “expert advice” – I really appreciate it!
How incredibly exciting! Hope you and the boys have a blast! You deserve it!
Thank you Diana! We’re really looking forward to it!
How exciting, you will have a blast and so will the family! :)
Thank you Rossana – we’re counting on it! Just have to get this packing thing done with, LOL!
Hey Lena, I am sharing your excitement!!!!
A tip I got from an experienced “cruiser” today – grab a ship bracelet from Shoppers Drug Mart. It works on accu-pressure and acts like Gravol, you press it on your skin and helps ease any nausea. Also bring a small med kit – band aid, tylenol, allergy meds.
See you soon :) :) :)
Oooh – thanks so much for the tip, Riza! I’ll definitely go pick up a few for the family! And I’ve got the small med kit packed and ready to go – it was the first thing I did :) SEE YOU SOON! xo
The picture of that ship is mind Boggling. I can’t stop staring at it.
It was pretty overwhelming, Kaitlin!
Hope you’re having fun. Ship looks awesome.
We had a blast, Jennifer – thanks!
I have never been on a cruise, I would be afraid of having motion sickness the whole time.
The ship looks great, hope you had a great time. I have never been on a cruise yet but it is on my to do list
wow! What a fabulopus trip!