...and double-check again! Some places here operate on... let’s just call it vibe-based timing. Always call ahead or check the latest updates on social media before dragging three kids across town.

Especially smaller parks, markets, or stalls. E-wallets are catching on, but don’t bet your lunch on it.

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Bonus tip: Pack small change and parking coupons — for vending machines, random fees, and, of course… bribing small children with ice cream when the day starts going sideways.

Not every location is baby-friendly — and “changing table” might mean “car boot.” Pack a mat, wipes, and backup clothes. Always.

Pro tip: If you have a baby or tiny toddler who still hasn’t mastered the fine art of potty-ing, bring your stroller. Yes, it’s bulky. Yes, you’ll curse it while folding it one-handed.

But — it makes a perfect mobile changing station, especially when you’re somewhere with no decent toilets. Lay the seat flat, drape a swaddle, boom — instant nappy zone.

Expect the Unexpected

Bring sunscreen, umbrellas, ponchos, hats, and good humour. You might get sunburnt and soaked within 30 minutes. It's part of the charm.

Bring socks (and read the fine print).

You’d think it’s optional. It’s not. No socks, no entry — or you’ll be panic-buying overpriced cartoon ones at the counter while your child screams bloody injustice.

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But that’s not all. Many places have extra rules that are easy to miss until it’s too late:

• Age restrictions (some play zones are for under-5s only)

• Parent companions required (yes, you may have to crawl through the tunnel too)

• No outside food (even that animal feed you lovingly packed)

• Pool rules (swim caps, floaties, swim diapers — or you're benched)

• Animal parks may require special feeding pellets — not your toddler’s stale crackers

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Moral of the story? Check the rules before you go, or risk doing the walk of shame back to the car.

Water, water, water. Hydrate yourself and your small dictator before someone melts (emotionally or literally). And you can’t go wrong with banana chips, Milo boxes, and approximately 12,000 wet wipes. Ever.

If your baby or toddler is still bottle-fed:
Bring extra formula, a hot water flask, and at least one spare bottle.

Because the one time you don't… is the exact moment they’ll demand milk with the urgency of a parched camel in the Sahara.

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Also helpful:

• One snack you secretly hate (so you don’t eat it out of stress)

• Wet bag for exploded snacks or surprise poo

• Small towel, plastic bags, and... your sanity