Bring or buy an umbrella stroller ?

[BxEngine]

This should probably go in the families section, so I apologize for screwing up on my first post lol....but this section seems to get a lot more replies from knowledgeable people, so I hope its not a big deal.

My family is traveling to Aruba for a 6 day stay starting this Thursday. In addition to myself, my wife, and my 14 month old son, 2 other couples will be travelling with us. We are trying to keep luggage to a minimum...mostly for my own sanity. I travel often and hate dealing with packing/unpacking and baggage carousels. That being said.....should we bring/buy an umbrella stroller from home and check it, or are there enough places where that can be purchased in Aruba? We only have a heavy duty stroller that Im absolutely not bringing, and I wouldnt mind just buying an umbrella stroller while down there and just giving it away when we are ready to leave. Is that feasible? Or should I just bite the bullet and head to Toys R us tomorrow .

By the way just wanted to add a thank you to all who contribute here...this forum has been a HUGE help with planning our vacation.

[Andrea J.]

umbrella stroller.........bring one.

one never knows what is available on island for purchase.
be safe and bring one.

welcome to the forum and enjoy your stay!!
andrea

[lizzardo]

Totally agree with Andrea. Remember it's a small island and variety and getting 'stuff' can not be assumed it is here. Plus since everything is shipped in - it will cost more in Aruba.

[Lewny1]

We travelled to Aruba with our then 22 month old daughter back in March. Like you, I did not want to lug her heavy duty stroller all over the place (I had done this the year before and it was a NIGHTMARE - didn't even fit through the x-ray machine at the airport and had to be hand searched). This year we puchased a $50.00 lightweight stroller (Cosco brand) from Walmart and it was a Godsend. It even came with the canopy and a place to store diaper bag(s) underneath. We kept baby in the stroller in the airport all the way up to the airplane door where it was gate checked for us. As soon as we landed, they brought it out for us and we wheeled her around from there. Highly recommended.

[BxEngine]

Originally Posted by Lewny1

We travelled to Aruba with our then 22 month old daughter back in March. Like you, I did not want to lug her heavy duty stroller all over the place (I had done this the year before and it was a NIGHTMARE - didn't even fit through the x-ray machine at the airport and had to be hand searched). This year we puchased a $50.00 lightweight stroller (Cosco brand) from Walmart and it was a Godsend. It even came with the canopy and a place to store diaper bag(s) underneath. We kept baby in the stroller in the airport all the way up to the airplane door where it was gate checked for us. As soon as we landed, they brought it out for us and we wheeled her around from there. Highly recommended.

I did this tonight (bought an umbrella stroller), and will probably do what you did.

Thank you everyone for your help! just a few more hours!

[amarg]

Does anyone know where I can buy a portable or travel potty? I saw someone with one and I think it's called "Pottette"? Also, for a one year old, what else do you recommend bringing and what can I easily purchase there besides the obvious of diapers, swim diapers, formula, sunscreen, insect repellant. What about baby food? I don't mind bringing a couple of packages of cereal and few containers of babyfood but don't want to have a suitcase full for two weeks. My daughter will eat some snacks like yogurt, cheerios and rice puffs but isn't a good eater and doesn't eat "people food". That's my biggest concern, feeding her down there. At home it's mainly cereal, sweet potato, squash, frozen organic purees for meats like chicken and beef, jars for fruits to mix in the cereal as she hates them alone, bottle here and there (she's basically weaned herself off), tiny bits of fruit or veggies and the snacks I mentioned. Well I can't pack the frozen purees and she hates change or new foods. She didn't even like the taste of the water in Vancouver so I had to purchase nursery water to make her bottles there. Feeding her is a challenge and I sometimes have a buffet of food on the table just for her as she rejects and picks at things. She can easily go without eating for a whole day if I'd let her. I wish I had a child that ate everything and enjoyed food! My girlfriend took her 8 month old to Dominican and he ate at the buffet quite happily. She had no problems at all. Mine rejects almost everything and I don't expect miracles to happen in 7 weeks before we go so I need to have a good plan on feeding her there. I am glad we have a kitchen and it looks like Ling and Sons carries a lot of US products.
Will I need a tent for the beach for shade for her? What about a carrier? Is it too hot for one? I use a Pikkolo here all the time or a sling. I am definitely bringing my umbrella stroller.
Does anyone know how much the Casa Del Mar charges to rent a crib, high chair and stroller? I saw that they offer all three but have no idea what the cost is per day. Also, what's the average babysitting rate? Should I go through the resort or should I book someone through word of mouth on this site? Anyone have suggestions? I am worried my daughter won't want to stay with whoever we get but I'd like to get someone in the evening at least so we can check out the casinos and nightlife. Perhaps having the sitter hang out with us during the day a couple of times first will help. Thanks again guys.

[SuperBunches]

You can probably google the potty and find it online. As far as food goes, you shouldn't have any problem finding the things you need at the local grocery stores. They have a large selection of American foods to choose from. I can't imagine what you are going through with your daughter. My kids were (and remain) very good eaters and I never had a problem. The tap water is excellent in Aruba and very safe to drink.

Best of luck to you!