Our many travels have taught us which tips and products are really useful.  Here, you'll find tips with direct links to the products we use.  If you have products you love, by all means use them!  Better yet, tell me what they are so I can try them, too.  I love finding new stuff! 

Money Saving Tip:  To ease the sticker shock on your credit card bill, try buying gift cards to your favorite restaurants and stores before you go.  Make sure the gift cards you buy are for places that have stores at your destination as well as where you live in order for this to be truly helpful.  I found a great website with a huge variety of gift cards all in one place... ""Visit www.GiftCertificates.com""

Planning Tips:
As soon as you know where and when you're going you can start planning.  Try starting any big changes (like potty-training or new nap routines) a couple months before you go.  Decide one major thing at your destination where you'll be spending the most time (the beach, theme park, etc.) so you can get a hotel as close to there as reasonable. 

A few items that pack well and come in handy are:
   - a stroller umbrella (we use a Radio Flyer Umbrella Accessory for ours and it works great)
   - bug repellent wipes (Bite Blocker Insect Repellent - Herbal Wipes)
   - water shoes (or non-skid sandals that can get wet)
   - sun hat
   - swimsuit
   - spray fan / WATER MISTING FAN - -(you can get these at drugstores for under or about $10)
   - small polar fleece blanket (lightweight but doesn't breathe, so it holds body heat well)
   - cotton sarong(can be a baby carrier, sun shade, beach blanket, shoulder shawl, etc.)
   - comfortable walking shoes (buy and wear these months before, if possible)
   - a backback (I love my Jansport backpack... it was hard to give up designer totes, but I'm very happy I did.)  Get one with lots of compartments, and a laptop pocket (for diapers when not holding a laptop), bag can also be a booster seat in a pinch, and is the perfect carry-on bag.

Think about whether or not you need a kitchen.  Many hotels can offer you a mini-fridge or even a microwave if you ask far enough in advance.  If you do need a kitchen, many hotel chains geared toward extended-stay business travelers have gotten good at accomodating families.  Also, condo rentals or time-share options can be affordable.

Check out our blog! 
Read and comment on our latest ventures.  Search the archives for a city you're planning to visit to get ideas from us and the comments from readers like you! 

What can you bring on the plane?
Check current FAA guidelines to be sure.