Top 10 Items When Traveling with Young Kids

Traveling with young kids can be an adventure in itself. Whether you’re going on a family road trip or flying across the world, being prepared with the right essentials can make all the difference. We’ve traveled several times with our little ladies as babies and toddlers. Here are our top 10 must-have items to ensure smooth sailing (or flying) when traveling with little ones.

1. Travel Stroller
   A lightweight, compact stroller can be a lifesaver when navigating airports, crowded streets, or tourist attractions. Look for one that’s easy to fold and maneuver.
   We recently traveled with our 2 young girls and this double umbrella stroller was a game changer. It was compact, easy to fold down, had pockets to store items and even helped me push 2 carry-on bags by linking the luggage handles over the stroller handles. I felt like I unlocked a new level of motherhood. 😉
   
   Click Here for Amazon Link for the Jeep Scout Double Stroller
   
2. Baby Carrier
   For hands-free exploring or navigating crowded areas (and allowing you to pee, carry bags, and handle other kids), a comfortable baby carrier or sling can be a game-changer. Choose one that provides adequate support for both you and your little one, I personally love the Ergobaby Embrace for newborns or the Ergobaby 360 for older babies (as pictured below).
   
   
3. Car Seats (when flying) + Car Seat Bag
   Keep in mind that car seats can be rented through all car rental companies; however, they can be expensive and all airlines allow you to check a car seat for FREE or if you purchased a seat for your child, the car seat can be brought on the airplane to contain those little ones. Bring lightweight carseats to lighten the load. Safe in the Seat has a great list of approved car seats.
   Yes, you can use a huge trash bag, but we have these awesome red car seat/ stroller travel bags that have straps which allow you to wear the car seat like a backpack and they don’t tear.
   
   Tip: If you check a car seat, you can utilize that extra space in the seat and strap in rain jackets, diapers or any other items you can secure within the carseat inside of the bag. I’ve done this multiple times with no issues.
   
4. Snacks + Drinks
   Hungry and thirsty kids can quickly turn a pleasant journey into a meltdown. Pack a variety of healthy snacks and drinks to keep them satisfied throughout the trip and then in a separate bag have some treats.
   Some of our favorite snacks are:
   – That’s It Fruit Bars, On-the-Go Nut Packs, Annie’s Organic Snack Packs, Annie’s Organic Gummies , Clif kid Zbars, YumEarth Lollipops, Fresh Fruit like berries, grapes, Mandarin oranges and bananas , Fresh Veggies like carrots, celery, cucumbers and snaps peas & also, premake PBJ sandwiches.
   – If you are looking for the BEST darn water bottle then look no further than the Contigo Aubrey. It is leak proof, easy to open, to clean and our favorite.
   – Powdered Drink Mix by True Lemon to add a little “special drink”.
   *All of these listed will easily pass TSA if traveling via plane
   
5. Games/ Entertainment
   Bring along plenty of entertainment options to keep kids occupied during long flights or car rides. This could include coloring books, small toys, tablets loaded with games and movies, or a selection of their favorite books. Don’t forget charger cords and to download games or movies before the flight just in case your plane doesn’t have headrest screens. Cheap mess free toys and blow up beach balls (for the hotel) are some of my favorite things to pack.
   
   Tip: I like to check SeatGuru.com to see what our plane is equipped with and if that window seat, truly has a window.
   
6. Change of Clothes
   Spills, accidents, and unexpected weather changes are all par for the course when traveling with kids. Pack a spare outfit (or two) for each child to ensure you’re prepared for any situation. I always pack a sweater and/or light jackets for the girls too.
   My Mother-in-Law has these compression bags that she stores her clothes in to make room in her bag.
   
7. Travel-Friendly Toiletries
   Don’t forget essentials like diapers, wipes, hand sanitizer, and sunscreen (we love Think Baby). Opt for travel-sized versions or invest in refillable containers to save space in your luggage.
   
8. Travel Blanket
   Help kids stay comfortable and cozy during long journeys with a travel pillow and blanket. Look for lightweight, compact options that won’t take up too much space in your luggage. I always pack a 100% organic Turkish towel because it doesn’t take up much room and is versatile. (Think picnic blanket, cover, pool towel, etc.)
   
9. Stay Organized!
   Suction Hooks – These suction hooks I found on Amazon have been great additions when we stay in hotels. For some reason, hotels usually have one or two hooks in the bathroom for swimsuits and towels. These removable hooks can be placed on smooth surfaces like glass, tile, stainless steel and perfect for the back of doors in hotel rooms.
   Collapsible Laundry Basket – This collapsible mesh laundry hamper is always in my luggage. We put all dirty clothes in the basket and then at the end of the trip, I place all dirty clothes in one bag making laundry once we return home so much easier.
   
10. Sleeptime Necessities
    The SlumberPod has been a game changer for several reasons. The total blackout tent allows little ones to have a “room” where they are unbothered by lights from the TV or distractions within the room such as older siblings.
    Other reasons why we love the SlumberPod:
    – Mesh pocket to hold a portable fan
    – Clear pocket for a baby monitor
    – Easily fits in a 21″ carryon bag and allows your baby/toddler to stand
    – It makes a fun play tent when its not time to sleep too
    Slumberpod with the WilmingtonMom discount
    or on Amazon
    
    Sound Machine: We use these YogaSleep sound machines at home and it is a must have. Why? Well, once we spent a horrible night in a hotel room because I forgot it. Our girls woke up several times throughout the night. My husband and I barely slept because they were constantly up, so now we have one that stays packed in our luggage. It helps hide noises from other rooms or fill the space in a super quiet room.
    
    Night Light: Dollar Tree night lights work great! Most hotel rooms make you leave the entire restroom light on for those midnight pee breaks, so a cheap nightlight is a must (especially if you or your toddler get up and need to find the restroom).
    
    
    

With the right preparation and a few essential items, traveling with kids can be a fun and rewarding experience for the whole family. By packing these top 10 must-have items (okay, maybe a little more), you’ll be well-equipped to handle whatever adventures come your way.

Feel free to comment below what else makes your top 10 when traveling with kids!