I am constantly fine-tuning my travel packing list, particularly when it involves packing for 2 tots. This trip to London, have ranked some things high on the priority list. A pram/ double pram is great especially when you are doing extensive walking in London, through the parks or visiting museums. It was great when we visited museums because Sarah and Samuel were fast asleep during that time, and it meant some good quiet time of studying the exhibits. But did I forget to mention that the Underground in London is probably the most child unfriendly mode of transportation for families in London. Dan and my father in law did a fair amount of weight lifting as they carried the double pram with its full load over the many steps and the execution of perfect timing as we tried to bounce out of the tube in time, with kids, pram and grandparents all in tow to avoid the doors closing in on us. Haha...it was harrowing but truly memorable.
With the erratic weather of London, cold air, chilly winds and the sudden drizzle, it can truly knock the socks off any Asian who is only too used to tropical weather. Always, always bring along a rain cover for the pram. There were times when we had to brave through the drizzle, and Sarah and Samuel would be howling because of the cold rain. The faster we push to reach to the shelter, the colder they felt as the pram pushed through the cold rain. Poor kids:(
I was glad the day before I left, I rushed to buy woolen thermal underclothes for the kids. It proved real handy. Perhaps, I should have bought 2 sets because I recycled the only one set I had for them for a full 21 days:) And of course, 2 sets of beanies, gloves, scarves and a good windbreaker [with hood] should be able to greet any sudden change in weather.
My mother-in-law was wise enough to pack a bag of instant oats and marmite which became a rather regular meal for the kids in UK. Potatoes, chips, pies and pasty just doesn't seem to go too well as their dinner. A food thermos flask is especially useful to keep food warm in the cold weather.
Wellingtons, many pairs of socks and a good handy pair of crocs proved to be all the footwear they need for play, fossil hunting, rock-pooling and horsing around.
For Samuel, his little pillow was packed all the way from Singapore and it was definitely a life saver during those long road trips and for him to adjust into a new holiday home and a new bed everytime we moved.
Notwithstanding the long list of things to bring, I would bring an empty luggage the next time to pack in all the wonderfully inexpensive organic food and snacks and toys from ELC UK.
