Pre-Travel Packing

So my husband is into the pre-travel shopping: What should we take for the family? What can we sell when we get there? In his mind, it’s mostly financial and most of the purchases are technology (laptop, iPad, camera, etc). I, however, have a different list. You see, in my mind I’m thinking he’s got the $$$ side covered, I’ve got to think of things we’ll need/want/miss. So below I’m listing a sort of wishlist/shopping list along with a few tips for travelers (especially those going for extended periods of time).

Magic Jack– Because we have a construction business, this is an absolute MUST! International cell phone prices are ridiculously high and both our contractors and family will be wanting to call us as if we were here. I first heard about this wonderful product (which I have yet to buy) from a missionary in central Africa. It allows him to stay in touch with his family in the States and with churches and supporters as well. Basically, you can’t buy Magic Jack in other countries, but you can buy it and take it with you to these other countries. It works through your computer/internet, but hooks into a regular phone (even a cordless). SIDE NOTE: For our travel times and time out of our computer’s range, we have Boost Mobile phones, one of which will remain with us… I think…. These phones allow free walkie-talkie and text!

Etsy– This is one of my wishlist items. I’d just love if Etsy had a gift card. You basically search for whatever handmade such and such (my fav are baby clothes, though there are some super duper cute adult clothes and goodies as well) and you order that. What’s truly amazing is that most vendors are able and willing to customize the order (i.e. change the fabric, make the skirt a bit shorter/longer, add a bit more in the bust, etc). The choices are limitless and, with some searching, the prices can be pretty decent.

Carter’s– A MUST!!! That’s right! I’m hitting the Carter’s outlet. If there’s anything I’ve learned in my travels, it’s that clothes are not so cheap outside of the USA. A baby can go through several sizes in the course of a year, and clothes can wear thin. It’s smart to bring at least a few basics and a few dress up clothes for at least three size stages!

Toddler Backpack– Audrey is at the age where she loves to get down and run around. I’m thinking we’re going to have our hands full in the airport between the carry-ons of things we want to make sure aren’t stolen in the transportation and Audrey gadgets, so a stroller really won’t make things as easy as it might seem (trust me, I’ve already been on at least 4 flights and many car trips in the year and a half since she was born). The ErgoBaby carrier has been a wonder for me since Audrey was an infant and continues to be now. It’s comfortable for both her and I, and I can put her in and get her out without requiring any help. However, I’d like to try the Toddler Backpack/leash for that airport time that she just needs to get her energy out. No, my daughter is not a dog. But the last thing I’d want is for her to get run over by a cart or disappear into a crowd in an airport.