Preparing for Scotland--And a Question re: Benadryl

[lawyerwifemom]

We are leaving on Saturday to go to Scotland for a week. My brother is getting married in a 13th century church just outside Edinburgh. It will be Rachel's first international trip! Her passport is just about the cutest thing ever

Comments

[internetmama]

Elias has flown as much as Rachel, but during this last cross-country trip, I made the mistake of booking us on an overnight redeye. I assumed he would be really tired (naturally), but he wasn't. I didn't think the business people would appreciate a screaming toddler (singing "Itsy Bitsy Spider" at the top of his lungs), so I gave him half a Benadryl chewable after 20 minutes of toddler naughtiness on the return trip from Seattle. Fifteen-20 minutes later, he conked out. I NEVER thought I would feel compelled to do this; and I once equated it with drugging a child for convenience. However, I really don't think he would've slept as quickly or as soundly without it (on THIS particular flight), so I don't regret my decision. It was half a dose, but it worked just as well. Probably for Rachel, who is even younger than E, half a chewable would be the correct dosage.

Well, on my trip to Seattle I knew I wasn't traveling by car very much. In fact, except for two quick dashes in a LJ/WC pal's car (to and from dinner), we traveled solely by bus. I don't use carseats for bus rides, so it wasn't really an issue. I bought one of those backless boosters, but it was a waste of money (we just resold it during our building's multi-apt. sidewalk sale last Sat.). Rachel's way too light for them anyway, probably.

In any case, my English friend who goes to the U.K. at least twice a year used to check her Britax as luggage, but she KNEW she'd be traveling in her family members' cars. I'm not sure Scottish taxis would all accommodate a Britax, and then what would you do once you get anywhere but the hotel? All of this to say, you could take it, but you might find yourself not using it!

[lawyerwifemom]

Elias is a seasoned traveler! And he always seems to do pretty well. I think I will take the Benadryl as a back up like you did. I'm glad to hear it was helpful. Thanks for the dosage estimate!

As for the carseat, I am conflicted. I have the Britax Marathon. It is a monster, but I do have a carseat bag/carrier for it. I was planning to take it, but then realized we are not renting a car and will be walking alot. We might take a bus occasionally, but I think cab will be more common. Our longest cab ride will be about 8 miles one way-which seems like I should have a seat or booster. Yikes. I'd feel terrible if I needed it and didn't bring it but what a pain to lug it and never use it!

Thanks for your input Sandie!