I love traveling with my kids and making fun memories, but let’s face it – the prep and planning that goes into each trip can often feel like navigating a logistical nightmare. After countless trials and errors, I’ve discovered that with the right gear, you can keep the madness to a minimum and the fun to a maximum. Here’s a list of my must-haves that will make your journey smoother than your morning coffee (which, if you’re anything like me, you will likely need in copious amounts).
1. Lightweight, Compact Stroller from Colugo:. One thing I never travel without? A stroller that is incredibly light and compact enough to slide into the overhead bin on a plane. This means you don’t have to wait around for it to be retrieved from storage after you deplane. You can just open the stroller and go – avoiding the “Where’s my stroller?” airport scavenger hunt altogether.
2. Portable Travel Crib from Baby Bjorn: Sleep is crucial for everyone’s sanity (especially my own). A compact, foldable travel crib gives your baby or toddler a comfortable and familiar place to rest, whether you’re in a hotel or crashing at Grandma’s. Easy setup and a cozy mattress are key—no one wants to deal with crib assembly after a long day of travel.
3. Stroller Organizer: It’s like a purse, but for your stroller. Keep all your essentials—snacks, drinks, toys, and diapers—within easy reach. Opt for one with multiple compartments and a universal fit. Trust me, you don’t want to dig through the diaper bag every five minutes. And don’t forget one of these for your coffee! I love this one because it fits on any stroller!
4. Kids’ Travel Pillow and Blanket Set: Because “Are we there yet?” sounds better when they’re saying it in their sleep. A plush travel pillow and blanket set will help your child nap comfortably on planes, trains, or in the car. Look for machine-washable options because kids and clean rarely go hand in hand.
5. Reusable Snack Containers and Snacks: Even if it’s just a 10-minute drive down the road, I can never leave my house without a well-stocked snack container! Avoid the “I’m hungry” meltdown by packing plenty of snacks. Healthy snacks can keep kids satisfied and happy during long trips. Use reusable snack containers that are leak-proof and easy for little hands to open and close. This way, you can keep everything organized and mess-free. You’ll thank yourself at hour three. And four. And five.
6. Activity Books and Travel Games: Keep the “How much longer?” chorus to a minimum with activity books and travel games. Coloring books, sticker sets, and compact travel games can keep them occupied for hours. Lightweight and mess-free is the name of the game here.
7. Tablet with Headphones: Sometimes, a little screen time is the best way to keep the peace (and your sanity). A tablet loaded with your child’s favorite shows and movies can be a game-changer on long trips. Don’t forget kid-friendly headphones to keep the noise down. You’re welcome, fellow travelers. Pro tip: You can download your kids favorite movies on Netflix, don’t forget to do so with WiFi at home and not at the airport or on the airplane-from someone who’s tried it, it wont work.
8. Travel Potty Seat: For those in the glamorous stage of potty training, a travel potty seat is essential. It provides a familiar seat for your child and fits easily into most public toilets. Foldable and easy to clean because who wants to deal with more mess?
9. Portable White Noise Machine: Ensure everyone gets a good night’s sleep with a portable white noise machine. It helps drown out unfamiliar noises and creates a soothing environment for your little ones to sleep soundly, whether you’re in a hotel room or a noisy vacation rental.
Bonus Tip: Pack Extra Clothes and Wipes Accidents happen (understatement of the year). Pack extra clothes in your carry-on and have plenty of wipes on hand for quick clean-ups. It’s a simple way to ensure everyone stays fresh and comfortable, or at least as fresh as possible.
These essentials will help you travel confidently with your little ones, ensuring your trip is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. Or at the very least, less of a circus. Here’s to happy travels and moments that make the whole family smile!
1. Lightweight, Compact Stroller from Colugo:. One thing I never travel without? A stroller that is incredibly light and compact enough to slide into the overhead bin on a plane. This means you don’t have to wait around for it to be retrieved from storage after you deplane. You can just open the stroller and go – avoiding the “Where’s my stroller?” airport scavenger hunt altogether.
2. Portable Travel Crib from Baby Bjorn: Sleep is crucial for everyone’s sanity (especially my own). A compact, foldable travel crib gives your baby or toddler a comfortable and familiar place to rest, whether you’re in a hotel or crashing at Grandma’s. Easy setup and a cozy mattress are key—no one wants to deal with crib assembly after a long day of travel.
3. Stroller Organizer: It’s like a purse, but for your stroller. Keep all your essentials—snacks, drinks, toys, and diapers—within easy reach. Opt for one with multiple compartments and a universal fit. Trust me, you don’t want to dig through the diaper bag every five minutes. And don’t forget one of these for your coffee! I love this one because it fits on any stroller!
4. Kids’ Travel Pillow and Blanket Set: Because “Are we there yet?” sounds better when they’re saying it in their sleep. A plush travel pillow and blanket set will help your child nap comfortably on planes, trains, or in the car. Look for machine-washable options because kids and clean rarely go hand in hand.
5. Reusable Snack Containers and Snacks: Even if it’s just a 10-minute drive down the road, I can never leave my house without a well-stocked snack container! Avoid the “I’m hungry” meltdown by packing plenty of snacks. Healthy snacks can keep kids satisfied and happy during long trips. Use reusable snack containers that are leak-proof and easy for little hands to open and close. This way, you can keep everything organized and mess-free. You’ll thank yourself at hour three. And four. And five.
6. Activity Books and Travel Games: Keep the “How much longer?” chorus to a minimum with activity books and travel games. Coloring books, sticker sets, and compact travel games can keep them occupied for hours. Lightweight and mess-free is the name of the game here.
7. Tablet with Headphones: Sometimes, a little screen time is the best way to keep the peace (and your sanity). A tablet loaded with your child’s favorite shows and movies can be a game-changer on long trips. Don’t forget kid-friendly headphones to keep the noise down. You’re welcome, fellow travelers. Pro tip: You can download your kids favorite movies on Netflix, don’t forget to do so with WiFi at home and not at the airport or on the airplane-from someone who’s tried it, it wont work.
8. Travel Potty Seat: For those in the glamorous stage of potty training, a travel potty seat is essential. It provides a familiar seat for your child and fits easily into most public toilets. Foldable and easy to clean because who wants to deal with more mess?
9. Portable White Noise Machine: Ensure everyone gets a good night’s sleep with a portable white noise machine. It helps drown out unfamiliar noises and creates a soothing environment for your little ones to sleep soundly, whether you’re in a hotel room or a noisy vacation rental.
Bonus Tip: Pack Extra Clothes and Wipes Accidents happen (understatement of the year). Pack extra clothes in your carry-on and have plenty of wipes on hand for quick clean-ups. It’s a simple way to ensure everyone stays fresh and comfortable, or at least as fresh as possible.
These essentials will help you travel confidently with your little ones, ensuring your trip is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. Or at the very least, less of a circus. Here’s to happy travels and moments that make the whole family smile!
