5 Top Green Travel Gear Items for Kids

Going on vacation and so much to pack yet always so little time – and space – to do it. A tip from parents of two - don't forget the kids! More than once we've sat down on a plane, in a restaurant, at the hotel and realized, um, we forgot to pack for the kids. Whether it's a little something to keep them busy or must-have they really can't live without, a little planning always goes a long way. For happier travels, we've put together a list of five top eco-friendly travel gear items for kids – all good for children and the planet too.

The Water Painting Travel Wizard is a clean, easy way to keep kids occupied during travel.

1. Alcohol-Free Hand Sanitizer 1oz Purse Size - this thyme-based natural hand sanitizer is lab proven to kill 99.9% of germs, without nasty toxins. The alcohol-free formula doesn't dry out sensitive skin and doesn't sting when it comes into contact with small scrapes and scratches. The 1oz/30ml purse size is perfect for little hands to handle and spray all by themselves. Choose from original citrus herb scent or orange vanilla. Buy a six pack and save!
2. S'well Stainless Steel Insulated Lunchbox Kids Water Bottle - just like the adult size, this smaller 9oz/240ml ergonomically designed reusable water bottle keeps water cold for 24 hours. It's the perfect size for small hands to handle and holds just enough to quench a little one's thirst on the go. Available in red, blue and pink.
3. Rume Reusable Snack Bags Fuschia Love Elephants - kids always seem to be up for a snack, often it seems at the most inopportune moments which is why we suggest keeping a few favourite crackers, cookies, grapes or carrot sticks to hand in a BPA-free reusable baggie. Zippered, washable, food safe tested, these bags are so easy – simply rinse and go between snacks then pop in the washing machine every so often. Assorted styles and colours available.
4. Water Wizard Water Painting Travel Buddha Board - toxin-free, no mess and easy to use, all you need is water to make this creative activity work on the go. Fill the pen with water, unfold the laptop board and your child can let loose his or her imagination. Purse size mini water painting buddha boards with a brush also available and ideal for bringing to restaurants.
5. Sweet Treats & Pirate Kids Envirosax Reusable Bags - new for Summer 2012 from Envirosax are two new reusable bag designs featuring familiar graphics kids love. These handy water resistant bags feature reinforced seams and toxin-free inks. Each one can carry the equivalent of two plastic bags full of groceries yet folds down to the size of a piece of sushi. Ideal for packing all of the above with plenty of room to spare for anything else your child wants to have to hand on the trip.

Today's Deal: Laptop Sleeve

Our Daily Deal today is ideal for anyone who uses their laptop on the go.

Sleek and streamlined, this laptop case not only features a striking pattern, but it's made of neoprene - the wetsuit material - providing a protective cushioned covering for transport.

We've reduced the price by 40% and only while stocks last. Simply click below for more information and to purchase.

Today's Daily Deal is...

Neoprene Laptop Sleeve
Was: $48
Now: $28.80
SAVE 40%

BUY NOW
Made of extra-thick durable neoprene, this laptop case cushions and protects your laptop for maximum protection and safely slides in and out of your briefcase or luggage with ease. Perfect for business travelers and urban nomads alike. Best of all, slide it in and as it conforms to the size of your computer, its unique bone shape creates an instant built-in bumper system for extra protection. Lays flat when not in use. Fits 14"-15.4" wide laptop. The hourglass shape and stretchy material allows this sleeve to fit a range of models and shapes. Machine washable. Stain resistant. Features a lime green interior. Made by leading tote manufacturer Built NY.
Also available in white with rainbow dots design.

For more great deals during our winter sale, check out our sale shop at Lavish & Lime. And be sure to check back here again for tomorrow's Daily Deal.

5 Money Saving Tips for Road Trips

Have a road trip planned for August? Even a weekend getaway? Don't let the rising price of gas jeopardize your chance to relax.

According to a recent poll by the Hotel Association of Canada, 22% of respondents cited the price of gas as a reason for traveling less, compared to just 3% in 2006.

Keep your road trip plans alive with these money saving tips.

1. Look for gas-rebate incentives when booking hotels. For example, the Sheraton in Ottawa has a 'Drive and Stay and Save' summer package that includes a $10 rebate nightly. Some Marriott properties also offer gasoline-related deals.
2. Take the time to plan your trip and find the most direct route. Consult with your local Automobile Association, ie. CAA, BCAA, for a planned travel routing.
3. Do some advance research on gas prices and although you might not remember the names of the stations, you just might remember the towns. Check for Canadian prices at gaswatch.org
4. Snacks are big budget killers on road trips - racks of chips and chocolate bars can be irresistable at gas stations and convenience stores. Wheel into a grocery store and pick up cheaper snacks in economy bags for roughly half the price and load up a cooler with water, juice, pop.
5. Follow these gas-saving tips while driving: turn off the gas guzzling AC and the four wheel drive; coast to a stop and be mellow when starting - burning rubber burns gas needlessly; don't speed - it wastes gas and just one ticket can put a serious dent in your budget.

Organized travel means happy travel. Check out our kids' car organizers to help keep the backseat both tidy and quiet and for the sleepy wee 'un with the floppy head, there's our ergonomically designed, award-winning baby necksaver. Reduce the risks associated with plastic water bottles with our aluminum Laken bottles and keep the bugs at bay with our all natural, paraben-free and non-sticky insect repellent.