Before I had kids, I was that person. The one who lived out of a carry-on, never checked a bag, booked last-minute flights without anxiety, and knew how to get through security in less than three minutes. Travel was a huge part of my identity—and I always assumed it would stay that way.
And it has. But with all things in motherhood, it had to be shifted to make sense for this stage of my life.
I still travel often—these days with my husband, toddler and a baby in tow (ages 3.5 and 9 months). I’ve now traded spontaneous getaways for car seat configurations, red-eye flights for early-morning meltdowns and easy packing lists for… well, entire spreadsheets of what goes in which suitcase.
Motherhood didn’t change the fact that I love to travel. It just made it heavier—literally and emotionally. It also made me a more intentional packer, a better planner and more tuned in to what really matters when you’re navigating airports, foreign cities, or long car rides with kids.
This summer, we took three big trips: two weeks exploring Copenhagen, a slower reset at our family’s lake house and a sun-soaked Mexico escape. And with every flight, ferry and nap-on-the-go, I tested the kind of gear that either saves your sanity or ends up shoved in the bottom of the suitcase. These products were the real MVPs.
Strollers & Gear
BabyQuip Rentals
Let’s start with the absolute game-changer: BabyQuip. As the leading baby gear rental platform, BabyQuip delivers clean, insured, high-quality cribs, car seats, toys, high chairs, strollers, and more—anywhere you go.
Instead of checking bulky items or hoping a hotel has a usable crib, you can rent exactly what you need. It’s helped me avoid back pain and toddler tantrums. BabyQuip now serves over 2,000 locations (in the U.S. and internationally), and they’ve even added coolers, beach gear and pet essentials. Booking is simple, providers are friendly, and everything is spotless. I’ve used it in multiple cities, and I’ll never travel without it again. (Except where it isn’t available, like Copenhagen! Counting down the days until you are there, BabyQuip!)
Learn more here.
Bugaboo Donkey 5 Duo Double Stroller
Copenhagen (or any European city) was a stroller-heavy trip. We walked everywhere—through cobblestone streets, across canals on boats, trains, buses and even through crowded markets. And our Bugaboo Donkey handled it all like a champ.
We used it in double mode so both girls had a place to rest when they needed it, and the side-by-side setup made it surprisingly easy to navigate tight spaces. It folds down well enough for travel, has tons of storage underneath (essential when you’re carrying snacks, coats, toys, and everything else), and gave us the flexibility to explore without worrying about who was going to crash mid-walk. Worth every penny for a trip where walking is the main activity.
Buy here.
Ergobaby Metro 3 Compact Stroller
For a more laid-back trip, where we weren’t walking miles every day and our older daughter didn’t need a seat, the Ergobaby Metro+ stroller was perfect. It’s lightweight, compact, easy to fold one-handed, and fits easily in a car trunk or overhead bin.
We used it daily in Mexico—at the resort, on beach walks, to get to the pool. It was comfortable enough for naps on the go and didn’t take up much space in our room. If you’re doing shorter outings or traveling with just one younger child, this is an ideal travel stroller that won’t weigh you down.
Buy here.
Pico Portable Car Seat
When we first started traveling with two kids, I dreaded the car seat shuffle — lugging it through airports, gate-checking, hoping it survived baggage handling. The Pico completely changed that. At just 8 pounds, I can carry it in one hand while juggling snacks, passports, and a toddler meltdown. It folds small enough to slide into an airplane overhead bin, so it’s ready the second we land and pick up a rental car. The breathable mesh keeps my kids from overheating and the aerospace-grade aluminum frame feels rock solid. It’s forward-facing for ages 2+, passes all U.S. safety standards for cars and planes, and honestly? I’ll never go back to our old, bulky travel seat.
Buy here.
Stokke YOYO Stroller
I didn’t think a stroller could make me feel like a travel ninja, but the YOYO proved me wrong. At just 13.7 pounds, I can sling it over my shoulder, fold it one-handed while holding coffee and stash it in an overhead bin before the flight attendants even notice. It’s sturdy enough for bumpy sidewalks, with reflective wheels for night walks back to the hotel, and the zipped back pocket is perfect for stashing my phone and metro tickets. From quick sightseeing stops to all-day exploring, it’s the stroller I reach for when space and speed matter most.
Buy here.
Bēbee Twin Lightweight Double Stroller
Pushing two kids through a crowded city used to feel like a workout—until we got the Bēbee Twin. Both seats are full-size (14 inches wide) and I can fold it one-handed while holding my baby on my hip. It fits through standard doorways, which meant no awkward detours in European cafés, and the all-wheel suspension handled cobblestones better than some single strollers we’ve owned. Knowing it’s made from over 100 recycled bottles (and that they plant a tree for every purchase) feels like a bonus, but the real win is how easy it makes traveling with two.
Buy here.
Baby & Toddler Necessities
ByHeart’s Anywhere Pack
If you’re formula feeding, ByHeart’s Anywhere Pack is the on-the-go solution you didn’t know you needed. Each single-serve stick is pre-measured and mess-free—no scoops, spills, or giant tubs in your diaper bag.
My second daughter has been fed ByHeart since day one, so I used these daily in both Copenhagen and Mexico. It saved time, reduced stress, and helped my baby eat comfortably wherever we were.
Buy here.
JetKids by Stokke BedBox Ride-On Suitcase
This was hands-down one of the best investments we made for traveling with little kids. Not only is it a spacious carry-on that fit all of my toddler’s travel essentials, but it doubled as her personal ride through airports—saving us from having to carry her when those little legs got tired. The swivel front wheels made it easy for her to steer herself (or for us to pull her along), and the adjustable strap meant I could throw it over my shoulder when needed. Once on the plane, it transformed her economy seat into a flat surface in just a few steps, giving her space to stretch out and rest comfortably. The top-opening design kept everything inside organized and secure, even during quick airport stops. It made travel days smoother for all of us.
Buy here.
Milo & Gabby Pillowcases
One of the simplest ways to help a toddler adjust to a new sleep environment? Bring a bit of home. These soft, breathable Milo & Gabby pillowcases (and matching blankets) became a bedtime essential for my 3-year-old on every trip.
The playful designs felt familiar, and the comfort made her more willing to fall asleep in different beds each week. If your kiddo needs consistency, this is a great (and lightweight) solution.
Buy here.
LectroFan Alpha Portable Sound Machine
Jet lag, naps in motion, and bedtime in unfamiliar places? LectroFan Alpha helped with all of it. It’s a compact, rechargeable sound machine with seven calming sound settings and a convenient clip for attaching to bags or strollers. We used it in every room, in the car, and even during a stroller nap under at a cafe in Copenhagen.
Buy here.
SlumberPod Sweet Dreams Bundle
I’ve used a SlumberPod for years now, and we’ve even considered buying two so each of our girls has one. Whether you’re sharing a hotel room or crashing in a friend’s guest room, this blackout privacy tent gives your baby or toddler a dark, quiet space to sleep—and lets you turn on a light or watch TV without waking anyone.
Buy here.
Richgv LCD Writing Tablet
My toddler used this for everything: drawing, writing, pretending it was a map or a ticket. It’s lightweight, mess-free, and kept her occupied for long stretches during flights, car rides and even in restaurants.
Buy here.
Osprey Daylite Jr.
Before our travelers, we gave my toddler her very own backpack—complete with new coloring books, toys, and snacks just for her. She wore it proudly through airports and train stations, loving the independence of carrying her own things. It also meant her stuff stayed separate from her baby sister’s ‘baby stuff.’ The Daylite Jr. is small enough for little shoulders but still has thoughtful features—like dual mesh water bottle pockets, a comfy ventilated back panel, and a whistle on the chest strap. She could grab her markers or a snack without digging through my bag, and I could grab it quickly by the top handle when needed. A perfect mix of kid-friendly and travel-parent-approved.
Buy here.
Table Tyke Silicone Placemat with Table Edge Bumper
This was a must-have for my baby, especially since we’re doing baby-led weaning. The built-in bumper hugs the edge of the table, so she can happily gum away without me worrying about her mouth touching who-knows-what at a restaurant. The raised edges keep spills contained, which means less food in her lap (and on the floor), and the non-slip back keeps it from sliding while she eats. It rolls up easily and hooks closed, so I could toss it in the diaper bag for meals out, camping trips, or even playdates. Made from 100% medical-grade silicone, it’s safe, dishwasher-friendly, and made cleanup a breeze—exactly what you want when you’re introducing solids and the mess is half the fun.
Buy here.
Restored 2020 Apple iPad
We used our old iPad for our travels and loaded it up with kid shows, interactive games and coloring apps before we left. It was a total sanity-saver on the plane and during long car rides. We only let our toddler use the iPad for special occasions like long car trips or flights, so it still feels like a treat when she gets it—and that novelty keeps her attention longer. The 10.2-inch Retina display was perfect for her to see everything clearly, and the battery easily lasted through a full day of travel. Having it preloaded meant no scrambling for Wi-Fi, and because it’s lightweight and slim, it fit right into her backpack alongside her toys and coloring books.
Buy here.
Helpful Buys for Parents
Artipoppe Zeitgeist Carrier
Yes, it’s an investment. But it’s one I’d make again and again. The Artipoppe carrier is stylish, supportive, and honestly the only carrier I didn’t dread putting on during our longer outings. It distributed weight beautifully and looked chic enough that I didn’t feel like I was covered in nylon straps and buckles.
Buy here.
Lion & Light Jetsetter Mini Diaper Bag
Once you’re past the newborn phase, you don’t need to haul a giant diaper bag everywhere. The Jetsetter Mini from Lion & Light is a crossbody that fits diapers, wipes, snacks, and your stuff without the bulk. It made chasing a toddler through a busy airport so much easier—and looked chic doing it. I used this all summer, and it’s earned a permanent spot in my rotation.
Buy here.
SnoozeShade Plus Extra
If you have a baby who sleeps in the stroller (or needs to), this is essential. The universal blackout stroller shade fit easily over our travel stroller and helped block sun, overstimulation, and too many well-meaning strangers leaning in to say hi.
Buy here.
TushBaby Hip Baby Carrier
This was one of my best travel (and everyday) purchases—especially with two kids in tow. The Tushbaby’s plush, ergonomic seat took the strain off my arms and shoulders while still letting my baby snuggle in close. Because the weight is evenly distributed around my hips, I could carry her longer without feeling sore, and I loved that it worked just as well for quick ups-and-downs as it did for longer stretches. The storage pockets were a game changer—I could stash my phone, keys, and a snack in the zippered compartments, and even had a bottle holder when I needed it. Whether we were sightseeing, boarding a flight, or walking to dinner, it made carrying her comfortable for me and secure for her.
Buy here.
Owala FreeSip Water Bottle
This water bottle is officially my new mom essential. It doesn’t leak. It keeps water cold all day. I brought the 32 oz size on our trip, and it quickly became my go-to for staying hydrated while wrangling kids. The genius is in the design—you can sip through the built-in straw when you’re juggling a stroller and snacks, or tip it back for a bigger swig when you finally get two free hands. The push-button lid flips open easily but locks shut to keep out germs (and keep it from leaking all over my bag).
Buy here.
Tips That Actually Helped
Gear can make or break a trip—but so can your mindset. After dozens of flights, hotel check-ins, and baby blowouts on the go, I’ve learned that success often comes down to how we approach travel days, not just what we pack. Here are the strategies that worked for us this summer:
Travel Days Are “Anything Goes” Days
I don’t fight for structure on travel days. The rules go out the window, and our goal is simple: get from point A to point B with as little crying (from anyone) as possible. That means unlimited snacks, full access to screens, and no guilt about skipped naps or back-to-back episodes of Doc McStuffin’s.
Airports and airplanes are stimulating and exhausting for little kids, and trying to parent like it’s a normal day only makes everyone miserable. I pack a backpack full of snacks (think: trail mix, pouches, fruit snacks, crackers, mini muffins) and fully loaded iPads. I’ve found that when I stop trying to control the chaos, we all arrive in much better moods.
Adjust to the Time Zone Immediately
Whether you’re traveling across the country or overseas, I’ve found it’s best to switch to local time as soon as we land. No “one more nap” in the middle of the day, no easing in gradually—just commit. Get outside in natural light, feed them at the appropriate meal times, and push through until bedtime, even if it’s an early one.
Yes, the first day or two can be rocky (especially with babies), but this approach helps everyone reset faster. Bonus: it also encourages early nights and long sleeps after an overstimulating travel day.
If You Can Swing It, Buy the Extra Seat
I know it’s a luxury—but when possible, book the extra seat for your baby. Having a space for them to stretch, nap, or just not be glued to your lap for six hours is a game-changer. If they’re under two, you can often score this extra seat at a reduced child fare—just call the airline directly to ask.
I also stalk price drops obsessively. (And by me, I mean my husband who is the pro at this.) Use tools like Google Flights, Hopper or Skyscanner to track deals, and consider flying midweek or on less popular routes to get a better fare. Even if you don’t score an extra seat, always ask at check-in if the flight is full. Sometimes a gate agent will block the middle seat for you if they can.
Make Sure Your Baby Can Nap on the Go
If you’re waiting for the “perfect” sleep setup to align while traveling, you’ll spend half your trip stuck inside. We’ve worked hard to help our baby nap anywhere—car seat, carrier, stroller—and it’s been worth every minute. It gives us the freedom to explore without racing home for nap time every day.
Invest in a good stroller that supports naps on the go. We love our Bugaboo double stroller, which gave both our baby and toddler a chance to rest while we kept moving. Whether we were wandering Copenhagen or walking to dinner in Mexico, having that flexibility kept everyone happier (and reduced meltdowns for all).
Use the iPad at Lunch—No Shame
There’s nothing indulgent about wanting to finish a meal. We fully embrace screen time at restaurants—especially for lunch. It’s often the most overstimulating part of the day for our toddler, and using the iPad to keep her entertained gives us a chance to breathe, reset, and actually talk to each other like adults.
A midday screen break paired with a big meal gives her enough downtime to power through the rest of the day without a full nap. It’s a win-win, and we all leave the table feeling a little more grounded.
Scout Out Playgrounds Ahead of Time
This one changed the game. Before every trip, I search Google Maps or local parenting blogs for nearby playgrounds. I try to find ones that are close to where we’re staying or near museums, markets, or coffee shops we want to visit.
Playgrounds are the ultimate energy release for toddlers—and make you feel like less of a tourist. They give kids a sense of routine, offer a chance to socialize with local families, and honestly? They’re usually a great place to regroup and grab a snack while the kids climb and slide their hearts out.
Adjust Bedtime Based on Your Needs (And Theirs)
If you’re traveling with help or have access to a babysitter, an earlier bedtime is often ideal. They’ll be tired from being on the go, and it gives you and your partner time to exhale, shower, or even sneak in a cocktail or quiet moment alone.
But if your kids can handle it, a later bedtime can be the best gift to yourself. We’ve done dinners out at 8 p.m. with our toddler coloring while the baby naps in the stroller. Some nights we embraced the chaos. Others we opted for takeout and an early crash. The key is flexibility—read the room (and the child) and adapt.
Babywear Through Security
This might be the most tactical tip, but it’s so helpful: wear your baby through airport security. You don’t have to take them out at TSA, and it keeps your hands free to manage bags, boarding passes, and—let’s be honest—snacks you’re trying not to drop.
We’ve used this strategy on every flight with an infant, and it’s made the entire experience smoother. Bonus: the baby often stays asleep through the whole process, which buys you precious calm at the gate.
In the end, traveling with kids will never be as light or as simple as it was before—but I’ve stopped seeing that as a loss. It’s different, yes. It’s heavier and slower and messier. But it’s also fuller.
Every trip now comes with a soundtrack of giggles in hotel bathtubs, sandy toes in places I never thought I’d bring a baby, and the small, proud moments when my toddler wheels her own suitcase down the jet bridge.
I’m not chasing the same kind of freedom I was before motherhood—I’m chasing shared experiences. And if that means spreadsheets instead of spontaneous weekends, or an extra suitcase full of snacks and sound machines, I’ll take it. Because someday, I know I’ll look back and realize that these chaotic, beautiful, gear-filled adventures were the ones that mattered most.
