Over-seas trip with a 22 month old

[Youngfrankenstein]

Hi mamas, I know many of you have lots of travel experience with your babes.  DH has a work show in Germany in September when DD2 will be about 22 months.  He wants us to fly over together early and sight see for a few days before he needs to attend the show.  I would fly home with dd myself.  Any suggestions?  She will be young enough that we wouldn't have to buy her a seat but it seems like it would be a good idea for the long stretch.

How have you made it work or not work!?

[starling&diesel]

If you can swing it, I'd suggest buying a seat. Chances are that you'd get two together, if there was a spare seat, but you just never know.  On those long haul flights, I'm happy to shell out the moolah (if it's at all a possibility) in order for the peace of mind of knowing that we have the seat. 

I know that they like families to board first, but it makes no sense to me to be stuck on the plane any longer than necessary with a toddler, so we always board last. 

Bring a few new toys, let her watch the in-flight children's programming (if there is any), bring along some treasured snacks, her lovey, a familiar blanket, and wear her out in the airport by letting her run around or chase a soft ball in a quiet area. 

Have fun!

[Youngfrankenstein]

Your plan sounds solid.  I agree about the seat.  Since dh's work will be paying for his ticket, we probably could pay for the other.  I just don't think I'll be ready to leave her at home at that age.  Thank you.