Long train trip with a 17 month old and need opinions or advice?

Here is my situation. I have a very active 17-month old son who likes to be very mobile and is teething right now. My grand-mother in-law and sister-in-law want me to go on a trip with them. Getting to where we are going is gonna take a 9-hour train ride...not in a sleeping car. I know for a fact my son will more than likely not sleep at all on the train and be a bear for at least part of the trip.My husband is unable to go due to work. My first instinct is to surpass this trip just because my son has so much going on right now with is new found mobility. My inlaw's say they will help me and I appreciate the offer but the simple fact is that when my son is crabby or is just not feeling right he will want nothing but me. So like I said I think it is best to wait at least until he is a little older my problem is my grandmother in law is pulling this pity thing...."this may be the only trip he gets to take with us ever?'...tears etc and I feel really guilty. Help?

Well, if they insist you take him, then by all means go ahead and do it. You say he's teething? That will probably be your worst part for a trip, but bring along some frozen popcicles (UNOPENED) they help with teething better than the baby teething rings and the good thing is, is that you can keep re-freezing them. Also i would bring along things that he REALLY like to play with. Also I know there are SOME trains where the engineer let kids see in the engine, being 17 months i dont know how much your son would like that, but its another option since your son is getting mobile. And im sure there will be PLENTY of wildlife and farm life for him to see through the windows. Hope you find a good solution and i hope you and your son have fun!

Take the train ride with your cute 17 month old son. It's true there are somethings in life you can do with a baby. Keep in mind that when your son not crabby he is happy or occupied, beside your child can be crabby with or without a train ride. If your grand-mother in-law and sister-in-law willing to help with the care your son, well that's good for the three to bond, and the only your son will mostly need you is when he is crabby. You also need to bond with your in-laws.Everything in life have its ups and downs, but when you can control the ups, like a nice train ride, go for it! I hope you go.God Bless

I have a 4 year old and a 5 year old. So trust me I know your problem. I would suggest taking the train ride at night. Tire him out ALL DAY. And you know that trick u use to get him to go to sleep? Use it right when the train pulls off. Hold your in-laws to their promise to help and don't let them back out. Hint: Ambersol doesn't work.

Try contacting the company who owns the train ask them if there is space for you to take a portable playpen, and/if they can supply one. Some companies will do this, Take your son everything that comforts him, toys, books, blankey, make him feel safe, this will stop him from being uncomfy and nervous causing him to cry out.When he does get energetic try walking him up and down the train. Show him the scenery, talk to him.It can be an awesome trip for you both if you stay positive.Prepare him, i am imagine you saying what the heck lolTake him on short train rides.Talking to him just enjoying a short ride somewhere.Like adults babies find life scary sometimes, new experiences can be both good and bad.