We had four carry on bags:
1). Electronics backpack that is small and can easily be put on a child or adult without any burden. It contains Ipod, DS, DVDs and player, earphones, and all necessary plug ins.
2). Empty rolling backpack. This is for excess. We ended up using it for bottled water we bought and to store our coats.
3). Food bag. This bag is crucial. It must contain several options of snacks for finicky children. It must also contain a variety just in case you miss a meal (jerky, crackers, trail mix, chex mix, nuts, fruit roll ups, Odwalla bars, chocolate).
4). Play bag. This bag is best served if divided in bags. The books, coloring books, sticker books and activity books of course don't need a bag. Crayons and markers in their own bag. Another bag for legos. Another for miscellanious action figures, another for playmobil, another for dolls and ponies.
This doesn't mean it was all smooth sailing. The flights themselves were great - thanks to the bags. But getting through security and ticketing, waiting to board - that's another story. I don't know what happens to my children during these standing and waiting times but I have a theory. I think the mischievious fairy comes and whispers all sorts of naughty ideas that children oblige "smack your brother for no reason" "throw yourself on the ground in a fit" "run to the nearest exit" "whine" "whine" "whine".
Despite the craziness, it was a beautiful vacation and we basked in the warm 70 degree sunshine. It is true that we acclimate to our environment. On the first beautiful morning we were there we were in t-shirts and headed to a nearby park. We were met by locals who where bundled up in sweatshirts, winter jackets and hats!
