penguin backpack + 5 tips for traveling with a tot

September 30th, 2011 · Bambino Steps (Kimberly) ·

We recently got back from Chicago, our first time traveling on an airplane with our son. I wanted it to be special and exciting for him and even more important, easy on all of us. It was all of that, and so much more.

After seeing Meg’s darling travel pack, I planned to make my son his very own backpack for his first big adventure. Of course we had bigger things on our plate before the trip, but three days before we left I was able to crank this out. And I am damn proud of myself.

This backpack is so awesomely made, sturdy, and full of wonderful details. It is the Penguin Backpack pattern from the stellar book: Oliver + S Little Things to Sew. In the past I have read fantastic reviews of Oliver + S patterns; I am happy to report that yes, their patterns are the bomb. I knew it was a reach for me as a novice sewist to go after an Intermediate pattern, with a zipper and all, but I was able to pull it off with great success, which I attribute purely to the pattern’s clarity. I used my trusty fabric label tutorial to embellish the pocket. Before we left I filled it to the brim and away we flew, with not a single hiccup. Below are things that worked for us.

5 Tips for Traveling with a Tot

Fly in the morning, as early as possible. Children tend to be more energetic in the morning, and thus less prone to meltdowns.
Bring a variety of fun and interesting small toys, preferably ones that are new to your child. I packed mini plastic animals in zippered bags, a sketch book, twig pencils, a puppy dog sharpener, large crayons, invisible ink activity books, a favorite stuffy, and Mr. Potato Head, which fit perfectly in an old Charlie Soap bag.
Offer a variety of foods to snack on, in fun containers that your child can open themselves. I am smitten with these stainless steel tins. We packed assorted deli meats, boxed raisins, hard boiled eggs, fresh fruit (bananas, apples and blueberries), apple chips, sunbutter bars, flaked coconut, almonds, gluten-free animal cookies and gluten-free crackers.
If you hit turbulence, don’t panic. Strap you and your child in and remain calm. I was shocked when my son squealed with intense glee as we were hurdling through the air, bouncing around like a pinball. He loved it on our way to Chicago and on the way back home the rocking lured him to sleep.
Umbrella strollers are the bees knees. We used one throughout the airport and it was so much easier than trying to corral someone who has no concept of time. Check it right at the gate and it will be waiting for you when you deboard.