safety tip = summer travel check list

no need to re-create the wheel when packing for summer. www.babycenter.com lays it all out so nicely, packing is actually fun. here is their essential travel check-list...

www.babycenter.com/packing-checklist-for-traveling-with-baby

Little travelers need a surprising amount of stuff! Here's a checklist of items that make traveling much easier, plus tips for efficient packing. For more information, see our articles on traveling with a young baby or an older baby.

> Diapers = One for each hour you'll be in transit, plus extras in case of delays
> Pad to put under your baby during diaper changes= You can buy disposable changing pads at supermarkets or reusable ones at baby stores
> Blankets= Bring a few — you'll use them to lay your baby on, cover her, cover yourself if you're nursing, protect your clothes from messy burps, shade your baby, and more
> Plastic bags= Carry a variety of sizes for storing soiled diapers, clothes, and blankets
> Diaper rash cream
> Wipes
> Small bottles of disinfecting hand gel, baby wash, and baby lotion
> Tissues
> Extra pacifiers (if your baby uses one)
> A few of your baby's favorite toys
> Clothes, socks, and booties or shoes = One to two outfits per day is a good guideline
> Washable bibs
> Sun hat
> Lightweight plastic feeding set with utensils, and baby food = If your baby's eating solid foods
> Formula, water, and juice if appropriate
> Extra bottles, nipples, and sippy cups if appropriate
> Energy-boosting snacks for you to munch on
> Breast pump (if you use one)
> Nightlight = So you can keep the room lighting soothingly low during middle-of-the-night diaper changes
> First-aid kit = Baby pain reliever and supplies for treating minor injuries
> Sling or front carrier = Lightweight, hands-free way to keep your baby close in crowded places like airports
> Portable crib or play yard = A safe place for your baby to sleep or play
> Inflatable baby bathtub = Can make bath time easier at your destination
> Car seat for safer travel by car or plane
> Collapsible stroller = Can be gate-checked or stored in the overhead bin of an airplane

Packing Tips
Start preparing to pack a few days before you travel. Keep a running list of things to take, or put items out on a table or dresser as you think of them.
Use a diaper bag with a waterproof lining and a shoulder strap.
Pack an extra shirt for yourself in your carry-on bag.
Prevent leaks by packing medicines and toiletries in resealable plastic bags.
Keep your baby's outfits together in one suitcase so you can find them easily.
Take your camera — and don't forget the battery charger if it's digital, or plenty of film if not.
Take a clip-on reading light so you can read without disturbing your baby.