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Best Travel Products for Families
Traveling with kids was one of the hardest things I ever had to do! Traveling internationally with an almost 3-year-old alone was simply something a disaster. It was for sure a trying time but we got through it and fortunately arrived at our destination in one piece, though a bit disheveled.
We had a lot of luggage as we were staying for 4 months, a car seat and a stroller with us. The car seat was checked at the booking counter and the stroller I checked in at the gate. I felt it was necessary in order to keep me from going insane and holding a child, a large bag, and two carry-ons. If I had to do it over again here’s what I would take to make traveling alone with a toddler less chaotic. (Don’t worry, it will almost certainly be somewhat chaotic but you can do it!)
1 – A compact and lightweight stroller is a must!
This Colugo compact stroller would have been a lifesaver on our trip. It folds so easily with its once-handed two-second fold, weighs only 16 pounds, and has an over-the-shoulder strap. We had the chance to use it on our last two Disney World trips and I’m impressed at how easy it was to get into the trams (always had trouble with my previous stroller).
It’s a smooth ride and offers a large storage basket which is a plus when you’re traveling and get this it comes with removable, machine-washable layers for easy clean-up. This stroller is ready for travel with its rain Cover, Carry Backpack perfect for checking your stroller at the airport.
Buy the stroller or take a look at their bundle – 5 colors to choose from.
2 – Diaper Backpack makes traveling with kids easier
Also from the Colugo family and available in their bundle, this diaper backpack looks like a regular backpack. We also took this out to Disney World and loved how comfy the straps were and how the different compartments were easily accessible. Changing pad and wet/dry bag included. It’s a must for a traveling parent.
Buy the Backpack
3 – FAA-approved Convertible Car Seat
We own the Chicco NextFit iX Zip Convertible Car Seat, and it’s the one I took on our international flight. Since he was almost 3 years old, he had his own seat and I decided against taking it inside the plane since I was traveling alone, it would have been too hard to juggle.
Had I had help or fewer carry-ons I think it would have been a more comfortable option for both of us. I booked a night trip so he’d fall asleep but I didn’t take into account he’d be asleep on me the entire time. It made for a very uncomfortable flight for me since moving wasn’t an option. If you have the opportunity to take a car seat I highly recommend it.
See Car seat color options
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4- A lightweight, compact travel crib
You might not need this if you’re traveling with an older child but if traveling with infants, you’ll definitely need a travel crib. If not, you can call ahead and see if your hotel provides cribs. The Lotus Travel Crib is perfect for traveling parents and it’s also a great playpen to keep your littles off hotel floors. Comfortable mattress and a backpack to carry it through the airport if needed.
5 – A comfy carrier is especially helpful when hands need to be free
I used a baby carrier for a very long time with my son. It was a life-saver not only for travel but for everyday activities in and out of the home. I finished up a lot of my chores with a sleeping baby attached to me. I highly recommend the Ergobaby Carrier. I have the original and the 360. There’s a full review on the blog as well.
6 – Seat Saver Liner – Doesn’t stop the accident when traveling but contains it.
If you don’t know what this is, I didn’t either but after searching around I found this product. If you have a baby in diapers or potty training your toddler, accidents are bound to happen and this will protect said accidents if they occur. Best $10 bucks you’ll ever spend.
7 – A portable high chair
This portable high chair depends on where you are going, there some places that may not offer high chairs, so if eating without a child on your lap is important snag one up before your next trip.
Other family travel products to consider:
Aside from these big travel items, having these smaller items on hand will make traveling with kids more doable. Choose items to keep them occupied but that doesn’t take up to much space in your bag.
Travel light but travel smart.
I like to bring toys and activities my son hasn’t seen before – hit up your dollar store for small coloring/activity books and place them in a bag for easy access and storage.
Of course have plenty of snacks they love available, especially if they won’t eat any airplane food.
- SnoofyBee Portable Changing Pad
- Wet/Dry bags
- Hand Sanitizing Individual Packet Wipes
- Reusable Sticker Books
Hope this post helps you on your next family trip!
I don’t know any magic tricks to make traveling with kids not stressful but we can make it at least a little more comfortable for everyone involved.
Cute looking portable chair, even though it’s not a must-have list for us. But, it adds a lot of conveniences.