I meant to post gift ideas about a month ago. If you’re like me, that means you meant to buy gifts about a month ago and are now in a bit of a panic trying to get things done. Here are a few ideas to help you out.
My first advice is to use Amazon Prime for free 2-Day Shipping. You have 3 more days to get gifts in time for Christmas with this service. If you’re not an Amazon Prime member, they are offering one month free trial membership. Try it! I do not get any kick-backs for recommending it, but it has helped me so much I strongly encourage you to check it out. Another benefit is you have access to a Kindle book to borrow for free each month from the Kindle Owners’ Lending Library.
Now that you know how to get the best deal on shipping, here are a few items you might want to purchase
Go-Go Babyz Luggage Strap $19.99 (currently on sale $15.11)
If you’ve read very much on this site, you’ve seen that I am a HUGE fan of Go-Go Babyz. Their innovative travel solutions are so helpful and well designed. My very favorite product is the TravelMate, but if you don’t travel that often and want a car seat solution for less money, the Luggage Strap is the perfect thing. Just strap it on your rolling suitcase to connect the car seat and you have a way to carry both your child and your car seat through the airport. I also love to have this in my bag as a back up just in case something happens to my TravelMate wheels. (Once I forgot to bring them, once the baggage handlers broke the handle when I gate checked it.)
Wikki Sticks $7.02
For ages 3 and up, I love Wikki Sticks to keep the child entertained. These wax sticks are a little gummy but don’t leave any residue. Your child can create any design without making a mess. These are my latest replacement for PlayDoh. There’s no mess, they’re easy to carry anywhere, and your child can create anything with them. They’re lots of fun! A perfect stocking stuffer.
My Quiet Book $39.99 (on sale $27.90)
When I was just 3 or 4 I remember playing with this original Quiet Book while in church. It kept me quiet and occupied and would do the same for a child on the airplane. All the pieces are tethered to the book so you won’t lose any pieces. Many parents make the mistake of bringing on the airplane books or toys that make noise. Avoid glares from fellow passengers for noisy toys and books Even I, as much as I love children and completely understand they make noise, get so annoyed at unnecessary/avoidable irritating noises coming from other passengers. Do everyone, including yourself, a favor by bringing noiseless books/toys for your child.
Banana Saver $6.70
I recommended this last year but it deserves another plug. Bananas would be such a perfect travel food if only they didn’t bruise so easily. What a perfect solution in the Banana Saver. I have even put bananas in my checked luggage using this and they came out good as new. On mine the clasp broke early on, but the holder was easily kept closed by a rubber band. I LOVE this product! Okay, a kid won’t be excited to receive this as a gift, but I guarantee a parent will!
Doodle Pro ($12.99)
This little Doodle Pro toy has kept Ella occupied in restaurants, airplanes, cars, and even at home since she was only about 6 months old. It’s lightweight and easy to carry. There’s a reason it’s been around since 1930. It’s really a perfect toy for any child aged 6 months to 6 years.
I hope some of these ideas help if you’re looking for some last-minute ideas. Feel free to ask any travel questions here or on our Facebook or Twitter page!
I’ll expect I’ll be a little quieter here on this site for at least a few weeks. I’m having a baby any week now, so I’m sure my time will be otherwise occupied. But I’ll try to bring updates and tips as soon as possible!
