There are sometimes a need for a little extras to make the journey more comfortable, apart from the obvious (nappies, wipes etc) I carry the following to make every journey as comfortable and smooth as possible for the kids and us!

1. Vicks Vapoease patch:
   For some bizarre reason, my kids have blocked noses on flights which results in them not being able to sleep comfortably. These vapopatches are ideal to carry,  they last upto 8 hours and unblock any nose! Just stick them on to any clothes they are wearing
2. Calpol Infant sachets:
   As carrying liquids at some airports above a certain limit are restricted, these sachets are ideal as they are less than any limit and each dose is perfectly measured.
3. Babyzen Yoyo:
   If you travel often, or have more than one child. A good quality stroller is highly recommended, the BabyZen Yoyo folds up small enough to carry on as hand luggage! I actually use it as an everyday stroller too, but if you feel like this is out of your budget, then do check out the other travel buggies available on the market. A longer post coming soon about buggies
4. Vaseline:
   To avoid dry lips and noses, apply a little vaseline around the mouth and nose to keep the little babies moisturised.
5. Socks:
   Removing shoes on the flight helps your child to relax, but walking around barefoot, especially to the bathroom isn’t always hygienic. But by wearing a pair of socks, not only are feet warm, you can also walk around with them on without having to slip your shoes on. Slipper socks are great for this!
6. Sweets:
   This is my tantrum diffuser, and they’re only used when I need the kids attention, especially my stubborn 2 year old. I keep a few bags packed each with a few sweets, as when I pull the bag out to hand over the sweets, I don’t want to have to give the entire stash away. Kinder eggs work too.
7. Spaghetti hoops/Bread/Pot Noodles:
   Whilst travelling on long journeys, there is always a meal time, where my kids need food, and with the fussy eaters that they are, they don’t always want what they are given on flights. So recently I’ve been packing noodles (Most airlines will provide boiling water) Or Spaghetti hoop tins with bread! (this is also what I pack in my luggage for the days we can’t find food for the kids whilst in a foreign country). So long as my kids bellies are full, I know that at least that’s one tantrum causer put to rest.
8. Snacks:
   My last life saver during trips are small packs of snacks. At this point you would pack things you know your kids will gobble up. In my case its fruits, biscuits, crisps and milky bar buttons! Having these during your journeys, and whilst waiting around gives you a carrot to dangle in front of the kids when you need them to get going!

To view the contents of my typical hand luggage that I have with me for a flight or a trip away, click here.