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38 Best Toddler Travel Essentials (More Fun & Less Stress in 2024)

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Looking for the best toddler travel essentials to ensure your trip goes as smoothly as possible? Look no further!

Traveling with young children can be stressful, but the rewards far outweigh the difficulties.

To keep your trip as easy as possible, we highly recommend bringing along a range of toddler travel gear.

The best travel items for toddlers will be the ones that keep them safe, comfortable, and happy (as much as possible while still being realistic that tantrums will most likely happen regardless).

Don’t have time to read? Here are the most popular items from our list.

• The Best Toddler Car Seat for Travel: Safety 1st Jive (Convertible, slim enough for plane seats and lightweight)
• The Best Toddler Stroller for Travel: Gb Pocket Air (Foldable & Lightweight – For kids up to 4 years of age)
• Airplane Foot Pillow: Make a little flat bed section for your toddler to sleep on the plane. See it here .

But how do you find the best toddler travel essentials? Without having to spend a fortune and without feeling like a packhorse as you struggle to take everything from home with you on this trip.

One way is to use the tried and tested products from those who regularly travel with their little ones. We started traveling overseas with our youngest when she was only 2.5 months old.

She has been to Bali, Lombok, Australia, Japan, France, Switzerland, Germany, South Africa, Namibia, and many other beautiful destinations.

Travel has been a big part of her life since she was born, and we have tried so many different products to find the ones that are the easiest to travel with, the lightest, the most comfortable, and the easier to get from point A to point B.

There are so many toddler travel accessories out there, that it can get overwhelming.

So before we start, think about what items you already have at home, that you could take with you. And then scan through our list of the best travel accessories for toddlers.

To make it easier, click on the category mentioned next to hop straight to that section of the article.

• Toddler Gear to Get Around Easily (Strollers, Car Seats & More)
• Toddler Plane Travel Essentials
• Toddler Packing Essentials
• Sleep-Time Essentials (Blockout Curtains, Crib/Bed & More)
• Travel Items to Keep Your Toddler Safe
• Toddler Travel Items for Car Trips
• Other Must-Have Toddler Gear (Toys, Toilet training, High Chairs, Beach/Pool Items & More)

Quick Guide: 5 Best-Selling Toddler Travel Gear

After a quick list of our best-selling toddler travel must haves? Here are the best items to purchase.

GB Pockit Air Lightweight Stroller

• Perfect for toddlers
• Lightweight (only 4.6 kg)
• Folds up so small that you can pop it in the overhead locker on a plane

Best Toddler Car Seat

• For younger toddlers (aged 1-3) we highly recommend the Safety 1st Jive car seat.
• Convertible, slim enough for plane seats, and lightweight

Best Toddler Travel Harness

• For older toddlers (aged 3 years+) we personally loved using a travel harness as it is just so much easier to pack and carry.

Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids

• Safe (with parental controls) tablet for kids aged 3 – 7 to use.
• Includes 1 year of Amazon Kids+ – a digital subscription designed for kids to safely learn, grow and explore. 
• 12-Hour Battery

Inflatable Travel Foot Rest Pillow

• We used these on so many planes to make a flat area for our youngest to sleep.
• Our trick (for using it on planes that don’t allow it) is to only blow it up when the lights go dark (and the flight attendants stop walking around so much). And then pop down the tray table (we pop our little one’s feet on the inflatable) over the inflatable to hide it.

Fun N’ Fly Foldable Travel Tray

• Such a clever way to prevent all your kid’s toys from rolling off the tray table on the plane.
• Fits most standard airline tray tables
• Mesh pockets for crayons and pens, a cup holder, and a folding front panel for comfort.

Best Travel Gear for Toddlers to Get Around Easily

Let’s look at travel equipment for 1-5 year-olds that makes moving from point A to B easier.

Here is a list of our favorite toddler travel essentials that you should not leave your home without.

1. A Lightweight Travel Stroller (GP Pockit) with a Gate Check Bag

You will definitely need a lightweight stroller. We all know that toddlers love their freedom and independence but also get tired quickly from running around.

One of the best travel strollers is the Gb Pockit Air .

This stroller is lightweight (it weighs only 10.4 lbs) and foldable (yes, it can fit in the overhead compartments on trains and planes). It is one of the smallest folded strollers that I’ve seen.

It is perfect for kids up to 4 years of age (or 55 lbs. in weight).

Not only do I love the price of this stroller (plus how small it folds up), but it also has a mesh back which is brilliant for hotter countries. It is breathable and helps to keep your little one comfy.

The stroller is easy to push (even with older kids in it). It’s a smooth ride (it has great rubber wheels) and turning the corner is easy.

And best of all, it is pretty affordable compared to competitor travel strollers such as the Babyzen YoYo .

I do think that the canopy is a bit smaller than what I personally like. And I really wish it had a stroller strap to make it easier to carry whilst folded.

But otherwise, this is such a great stroller and at a fantastic price.

It really is worth the investment!

Protect your Stroller With A Stroller Bag

The one negative of the GP Pockit stroller is that it doesn’t have an easy way to carry it whilst folded. So this carry bag is essential as it has straps so you can pop it on your back.

Too often these days do they take you out of the airport and make you climb up the stairs from the runway up to the plane.

So having the stroller on your back so you can carry your toddler is essential.

It is also handy if you might prefer to gate-check it.

That way, you don’t have to try to carry the stroller and your toddler together with your carry-on bags onto a plane (especially a hassle when you have to leave the airport and climb stairs to get into the plane).

We prefer to gate-check our stroller (when possible – check with your airline).

That means you can use the stroller throughout the airport and then check it at the ticket desk a little prior to boarding the plane.

Some airlines will have large clear bags that you can pop your stroller in, but they are thin plastic bags that don’t offer any protection.

We much prefer to buy decent bags, and this specific bag is so convenient as it has backpack straps so you can pop it on your back and have your hands free for your toddler.

This specific bag is compatible with the Gb Pockit strollers; it is airline certified and is available in black.

TIP: Not planning many trips in the future and don’t want to invest in a stroller specifically for travel? You can also rent a stroller in the destination you are visiting! BabyQuip is a baby rental company and they have all your baby travel needs sorted. Perfect if you are visiting Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Mexico, Caribbean and Costa Rica. Rent your baby gear by clicking here.

2. Tula Ergonomic Toddler Carrier

A toddler or baby carrier is a must for people who want to travel with a toddler.

While I’m not a big fan of having my toddler in a carrier (they are just so heavy, and of course, they want to be up and then down and back up again),  a carrier is essential if you visit a destination that has many stairs.

Tula is one of the few brands that manufacture special carriers, especially for toddlers aged from 2- 6 years (rather than babies), so this carrier is brilliant.

Tula’s Ergonomic Newborn Carrier is available in 38 colors and style options. There are multiple material options available, but my favorite is the 100% cotton ones, they are soft, comfortable and machine-washable.

Incredible I have a (huge) 16 month old and a 3 year old who both fit into this perfectly. It is so confortable and i can easily manage a hike with the 3 year old with this carrier. We also have a hiking backpack carrier which was quite expensive and the tula is so much more comfortable than that. I now feel that we can go anywhere and do anything without fear of my 3 year old asking to be carried. Alison B.   (Read More  Reviews on Baby Tula ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

We especially liked how you can use this carrier as a back carry and front carrier. Your toddler’s body development will not be impacted, thanks to its thoughtful, m-position seat.

It is the best toddler carrier on the market!

3. Clevr Premium Backpack Hiking Child Carrier

The Premium Backpack Hiking Child Carrier from Clevr is made for those who love hiking.

It features a hip belt and padded straps to ensure safety without compromising comfort.

We especially like the thoughtful inclusion of a sunshade visor and stand.

You get multiple pockets for convenient storage, including an extra-large pocket for diapers.

Toddler Travel Gear for Plane Trips

Next up is the all-dreaded plane trip. Talk about anxiety and nervous feelings! Fortunately, the older your child gets, the easier this bit gets.

Our little one just turned 3, and life is already getting easier when we get on that plane.

Tip:  You might also be interested in checking out the best toddler toys for airplanes  here.

Here is a list of some fabulous airplane accessories for toddlers.

4. Travel Car Seat or Child Airplane Travel Harness

It is so vital for your toddler to be in a travel car seat on the plane. According to News.com , it is not just to protect your child from plane crashes, but it is so important for turbulence.

Not only will the car seat protect your child in the case of an emergency, but it will also help keep your toddler sitting still as much as possible (which is great for your sanity).

The best travel car seat we love is the Safety 1st Jive 2-in-1 Convertible Car Seat ( find a different portable car seat on our  best travel convertible car seat  guide here ) when traveling with a toddler on a car or a plane.

This car seat is lightweight (14.25 lb) and slim enough (18″) to fit on plane seats .

It can be used in rear-facing mode for toddlers weighing less than 40 pounds and front-facing mode for toddlers weighing up to 65 pounds.

Would Highly Recommend! I’m very impressed with this carseat. You can’t beat the price, and it’s the same quality as some of the more expensive carseats out there! My kiddo loves how comfy and soft it is. It isn’t bulky at all, and comfortably fits both cup holders on each side… Love it Alison B.   (Read More  Reviews on Walmart ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

For older toddlers aged 4 years+, you could also consider taking along a travel booster seat (although these can’t be used on planes).

An alternative to a car seat is the airplane toddler harness mentioned below. I would only recommend the travel harness for kids aged 3 years+.

Also, if it is an overnight flight I highly recommend the car seat as our toddler found the safety harness a bit uncomfortable to sleep with. 

Tip: You may also be interested in checking out this foldable travel car seat for 2 year old and/or this car seat for a 3 year old .

Protect Your Car Seat With A Travel Bag

If you are buying the convertible seat, we recommend getting the Volkgo Travel Bag with it.

It is an effective and easy way to travel with your convertible seat. This bag will ensure that your travel seat stays clean (plus it is a great way to sneak in some extra toddler items like a blanket or diapers or clothes).

Also, it is made from nylon, making it water-resistant.

For Older Toddlers – Airplane Harness

If you are taking a flight with your toddler, aged two years or older , you could get a safety harness instead of having to drag a car seat onto the plane.

It takes less than a minute to install and can fit into small bags.

My only negative with the harness is that your toddler will need to sleep upright in their seat. We’ve tried this harness with our young year old, and it was uncomfortable for her, it was much better when she was over 2 years.

You can read our full  CARES harness review  here.

5. Travel Foot Rest Pillow for Kids

Here is a product we just can’t live without! It might just be one of the handiest flight accessories for toddlers.

We recommend you get the inflatable foot travel pillow if your toddler is going to be on the plane overnight or during nap times.

This inflatable airplane pillow can be placed in the leg rest area to offer a relaxing flat position for your kid to sleep.

Whilst you won’t be able to use the pillow on take-off and landing (and sometimes the air hostesses might ask you to pop it away), it can help your child sleep much better on a long-haul flight.

Note: Not all airlines will allow you to use this product, but we have managed to use it more often than not in planes and it has been a lifesaver.

6. Fun N’ Fly Foldable Travel Tray

The next recommendation for toddler flight essentials is a multi-purpose play space that fits perfectly on nearly all standard airplane tray tables.

It can fold and unfold in mere seconds.

The fabulous thing about this table is that it has side barriers, so it is great for toys and crayons, etc. And you can wash it and reuse it as many times as you want.

I got so sick of playing pick-up in the planes, so this truly is fabulous to make life easier.

7. ‘Tux’ Kids Travel Pillow and Travel Blanket Set

Roamwild offers a three-in-one accessory that functions as a blanket, a comfortable pillow, and a penguin toy .

This is so brilliant because the Tux can be used to transform any armrest into a pillow for your toddler, making it ideal for plane, coach & train travel.

We love to travel with our own blankets. If you want to find a blanket for yourself, then you might also enjoy our list of adult  travel blankets for airplanes  here.

8. Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Edition Tablet

The next product on our list is not just a travel accessory, but rather a full-fledged tablet.

The Fire HD 10 Kids Tablet serves as the perfect tool for young minds to indulge in more than 20,000 famous games, apps, books, videos, and other educational content.

A 2-year worry-free guarantee backs it. You also get a kid-proof case , which comes in three colors – yellow, pink, and blue.

The tablet is really helpful to kill time waiting in airports or to give you some downtime on the plane to catch a few breaths.

9. Anble Kids Headphones

For toddlers who are fond of listening to music, there can be no better travel accessory than the Anble Kids Headphones.

It features a standard 3.5mm jack, which is compatible with nearly all popular smartphones. 

We especially liked its 93-decibel volume restrictor to ensure hearing protection for toddlers.

And did we mention that it has a sharing interface on the right side?

Best Travel Accessories for Toddlers To Keep Everything Organized

Here is our list of some of the best kids’ luggage, bags, and organizers to make life a touch easier.

10. JetKids by Stokke BedBox (Best Air Travel Gear for Toddlers)

Stokke is a well-known baby and toddler brand, so their JetKids Ride On Suitcase is one of our favorite toddler travel accessories. 

What makes this travel suitcase so great is the built-in flight bed . The suitcase transforms in 5 quick and easy steps once the seatbelt is switched off on the plane.

The suitcase also has space for your toddler’s essentials, so you can pack them away for easy access when not used as a ride-on through the airport.

The suitcase has front swivel wheels, making it super easy to pull along and steer.

Trunki is one of the most reputed brands when it comes to products for toddlers.

Trunki is a durable and lightweight suitcase for kids. It is available in two color options –  Terrance (Blue) and Trixie (Pink).

Your toddlers can use it as a riding toy or for storing luggage, and it can hold up to 75 lbs (which should be more than enough to store your toddler’s belongings for a trip).

We only r ecommend this one for older toddlers , as a one-year-old might still be too little for it.

So if you are not sure this is the right pick for your toddler, then we have other fabulous ideas for kids’ luggage on wheels  here.

12. Travel Organizers with Laundry Bag

Have you ever found packing your luggage to be stressful? We’ve used packing trips for most of our trips. We use these in our luggage as well as our carry-on bags.

Shacke offers a pack of four space-saving packing cubes that allow you to organize and pack all your essentials systematically. You will no longer have to wrestle with your suitcase to fit in everything you need!

Each of these travel organizers is made from high-quality nylon. The pack is available in nine colors and comes with a laundry bag.

We typically pack all our clothes and items for all three (Andrzej, myself, and our toddler) of us into one suitcase, so I really LOVE to use a specific color for each person, that way I can pull out the right cube of clothes for any of us quickly.

We always popped three of these in our backpack diaper bag.

One was to store toddler travel toys (here is our list of the  best travel toys for toddlers ) and the second was for snacks organized for the plane trip.

And when she was in diapers, we also used a third cube as our diaper caddy – it is so much easier to take a cube into the small plane toilet cubicles rather than a big bulky diaper backpack.

You can read through all our packing cubes reviews  here.

It is one of those travel things for toddlers that no one naturally would think about, but that comes in handy in so many different ways.

13. Mancro Backpack Diaper Bag

One of those travel must-haves for toddlers – whether your toddler is toilet-trained or not.

We absolutely love the Mancro Backpack Diaper Bag for travel purposes.

Featuring 114 easy-access compartments, this backpack will let you keep all your toddler essentials in an organized manner. We use it on the plane and while exploring.

We especially liked its included changing pad, stroller straps, and padded straps, making it excellent for traveling. You need not worry about any quality-related red flags, as it comes with a lifetime warranty .

After something a bit more girlie? We have a list of other fabulous  traveling diaper bags  here.

Best Toddler Travel Gear for Sleep-Time

Next up are some fabulous nifty toddler travel items to help with sleep and nap time.

14. BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light or The Shrunks Toddler Travel Bed

Depending on your toddler’s age, you can choose to buy either a suitable toddler travel crib or an inflatable toddler bed (see info on that below).

One of the best portable travel cribs is the BabyBjörn Travel Crib. This crib is perfect for children up to three years of age. It is a lightweight crib (13 lbs) and comes with a carry bag.

It can be set up very quickly and folds back conveniently , making it ideal for travel.

You can also find our guide on the  best travel cribs  for your research here.

If your child is older than 2 , you can opt for the Toddler Travel Bed by The Shrunks.

It comes with a powerful electric pump so you can inflate it quickly. We especially liked the guard rails on the sides of this bed to prevent toddlers from rolling out.

15. Portable Window Blackout Blind Shades

The worst thing is when you arrive at a hotel or Airbnb and they only have sheer curtains.

You already know that your toddler will be awake at the first sign of light.

Fortunately, you can take this fabulous product along with you.

AmazonBasics offers the Window Blackout Blind Shades to block out sunlight and UV rays, thereby ensuring that your kid sleeps quietly during the day.

It is made from 100% polyester and features Velcro edges, which allow it to fit several window sizes.

It adheres with suction cups , so you can stick it onto any window YEAH!

Toddler Travel Accessories for Car Trips

For those who will be spending loads of time in the car on a road trip. Here are some fabulous items to help keep peace in the backseat. 

16. Kinder Fluff Car Sun Shade

Kinder Fluff’s pack of four-car sun shades is a must-have if you plan to embark on a road trip with your toddler. It consists of two transparent and two semi-transparent sun shades for your car windows.

You also get a free storage pouch.

We especially liked the fact that you can install it quickly and easily without any adhesives or suction cups.

They are so easy to pack, take up little room, and honestly will help your little one to sleep better during the car trip.

17. Car Seat Tray

Keeping kids occupied with toys, activity books, or food more oft than not is an arduous task.

EcoZen Lifestyle offers a multi-purpose travel tray that can be used in cars and planes.

Your child will be busy with his toys, books, and food with the help of this exceptional tray.

Its side and front pockets allow for convenient storage of various things.

18. Shynerk Baby Car Mirror

Shynerk offers the Baby Car Mirror, which is an effective way of keeping your toddler under surveillance.

It pivots a full 360 degrees to ensure that you have the best viewing angle.

I’m sure you all have one in your car at home, but this one is fabulous to pack and take along.

We especially liked how easy it was to attach it to the headrest of the backseat of our car.

You need not worry about your toddler getting harmed by it in case of a mishap because it is crash-tested and safety certified.

19. Lusso Gear Car Seat Organizer

Nobody wants to clean a mess of toys, books, and spilled food on vacation.

Traveling with a toddler in a car can be a messy affair, especially when they have a complete arsenal of things to throw around.

Lusso Gear offers the Car Seat Organizer, which prevents this most efficiently.

It consists of nine storage compartments for various toddler-favorite products.

We especially liked the ergonomic handles that make it easy to carry.

Best Travel Items for Toddlers to Keep Them Safe

We all know that toddlers are super busy little people. And boy do they love to have their own way. So it can be really tricky to move through crowded areas when your toddler wants to run this way or that

These products will help give your child a touch of freedom, whilst still keeping them within a safe distance.

20. The Stair Barrier Portable Baby Gate

Not only can stairs be a safety concern for toddler parents, but it can also mean that you will have to take your toddler up and down the stairs all day long (our toddler just loved new stairs and kept asking to go up and down).

If you know that the hotel or Airbnb you will be staying in has stairs, it would be worthwhile to take this Stair Barrier Portable Fabric Gate with you.

It weighs only 6 lbs. It ties up with 3 dual-sided release buckles, which won’t leave marks on the staircase.

It is available in two size options and 11 different colors.

21. Jolik Child Motorcycle Safety Harness

Jolik offers the Child Motorcycle Safety Harness for parents who want to take their toddlers along when they go for a ride.

Its belt length can be adjusted to fit most motorcycles, snowmobiles, and ATVs.

It can be used for kids aged 2 to 12 years.

Helpful when you visit scooter-heavy countries such as Vietnam, Thailand, and Bali.

I hate seeing little kids on motorcycles with no protection, this is worth every dollar (and don’t forget to take a bike helmet  along as well!).

We liked the thoughtful inclusion of a reflective patch to ensure your child’s safety in darkness.

22. Blisstime Anti Lost Wrist Link or Skip Hop Toddler Leash and Harness Backpack

If your toddler has a knack for running around and getting lost, you can use the Anti-Lost Wrist Link from Blisstime to prevent that from happening when you are traveling. It comes in three color options – rose red, orange, and blue.

Instead, you may choose to opt for the Toddler Leash and Harness Backpack from Yisibo. It allows you to ensure that your child does not get lost in a crowded place.

You can detach the leash from the backpack when it is not required. It is available in five different and fun styles.

Other Must-Have Toddler Travel Essentials

And if you thought we were out of items, you were wrong. There is even more. Some nifty ideas for making mealtime more enjoyable and just some fabulous products to have on have. 

23. Munchkin Brica Travel Booster Seat or Zicac Portable Booster Seat Cushion

Anybody who has traveled with toddlers will agree that one of the most common issues they face is the low height of chairs in public places.

Not all restaurants have high chairs, and things get too complicated when you try to keep them on your lap while eating.

Depending on your toddler’s age, you can choose from these two seat boosters. You can also find some other fabulous recommendations for a   travel high chair .

Munchkin’s Booster Seat works best for toddlers aged 1 to 3 years. We especially liked its built-in storage space for diapers and bottles.

Zicac’s Booster Seat is better suited for toddlers aged three years or above.

It features a high-density sponge and two straps to ensure that it stays securely in place on chairs.

24. BabyBjörn Smart Travel Potty or Gimars Portable Reusable Potty Training

One of the recurring tasks that a toddler’s parents must do is changing diapers. It may not be convenient to do that while traveling, so you should use these two products.

We recommend the Smart Potty for car journeys and the Reusable Potty Training for planes and trains.

The Smart Potty takes up negligible space and is very easy to clean. Its splash guard eliminates the chance of spills.

The Reusable Potty Trainer has six silicone pads that are non-slip, easily foldable, and washable.

It can be used to help your toddlers learn how to use lavatories.

25. Papablic Portable Baby Bottle Warmer

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if your toddler could get warm milk on the go?

Papablic’s Portable Bottle Warmer does just that! It features a waterproof seal and vacuum insulation, which keeps water or milk hot for an entire day.

It has a 100% money-back guarantee and can easily fit in most standard diaper bags.

26. OXO Tot Drying Rack with Bottle Brush

Cleaning up a toddler’s essential products like bottles, nipples, or breast pump parts can be tiring, especially while traveling.

OXO provides a compact cleaning solution consisting of a firm, soft-bristled brush, and a detail cleaner.

It opens up to form a drying rack with flexible tines and ventilation holes to enable quick drying.

27. ChooMee SoftSip Food Pouch Top

When traveling with toddlers sometimes you have to do meals on the go.

With the ChooMee SoftSip Food Pouch tops, your little one will have a mess-free meal from any food pouch.

Simply screw off the food pouch plastic top and place the soft tops over the top to make mealtime comfortable for your little one.

The ChooMee SoftSip tops are made from silicone and are 100% BPA-free. They are also dishwasher safe which makes it easy to clean after use.

28. Munchkin Snack Catcher & a Sippy Travel Cup

Why are toddlers always so hungry!? Traveling with toddlers becomes much easier if you get this pack of 2 snack containers from Munchkin.

You can choose from two color combinations – blue and green or pink and purple. These containers fit most of the standard cup holders in cars and strollers.

We especially liked these spill-proof containers because they are made from BPA-free, dishwasher-safe materials.

Also, don’t forget to pack your sippy cups. You can just use what you have at home, but if you want something new, we love these sippy cups for young kids here.

29. ALVABABY Waterproof Wet Bag

With our next recommendation, we are adhering to optimal waste disposal standards. You cannot throw away a used diaper on the move and storing it for future disposal can be a hassle.

ALVABABY offers a waterproof wet bag that is a much better alternative than plastic bags. You can conveniently keep wet waste or wet clothes in this bag.

30. Speedo Kids’ Classic Swim Vest

Toddlers typically can’t swim well yet and often they aren’t always aware of how dangerous water can be, so best to ensure that they are safe when surrounded by water.

Speedo offers the Classic Swim Vest for small children in two sizes – medium for ages 2 to 4, and large for ages 4 to 6.

You can choose from seven different color options. It features an adjustable buckle strap and a full front zipper.

Your toddler will not be harmed by the sun’s harmful UV rays, thanks to its UPF 50+ protection.

>>>  YES! My toddler would love this – Buy it Now

31. Bigib Toddler Kids Swim Water Shoes

One of the significant concerns that parents have after their toddlers go swimming is the risk of slipping down and getting hurt.

Bigib offers swim water shoes that are non-slip and dry quickly to ensure that your toddlers do not face that predicament.

Just recently on our trip to Malta, we watched a little child run around the pool and in no time at all he was face-planting on the floor.

Even though we told our little one to walk slowly as a result, she still managed to slip as well. 

These shoes are just so fabulous for little ones who love to run.

They are also great when you are visiting beaches that have lots of shells, coral, or rocks on them.

You can choose from 13 fun and exciting style options for these unisex shoes. You can also find a list of other  toddler water shoes  here.

32. Cocosand Baby Sunglasses with Strap

Protecting your toddler’s eyes from the harsh sun rays when at the beach or pool is just as important as protecting your own.

We love the Cososand Baby Sunglasses that offer UV400 protection. The sunglasses come with a strap to help keep them on your little one when out and about.

The sunglasses come in a variety of colors for you to choose from.

They are made from a soft and comfortable material that is lightweight and won’t squeeze the ears or the nose of your little one when they are wearing them.

33. Monobeach Pop-Up Baby Beach Tent 

This pop-up beach tent is not only a great sun shade but can also double up as a small splash pool to keep your little one cool when at the beach.

It comes with its own carry bag and folds up small and compact making it easy to store and carry when out and about. 

You also get 4 pegs to ensure that you can secure the tent in the sand or ground when using it at the beach or even in the park when having a picnic.

The pop-up tent has a sun protection rating of 50+ UPF ensuring that your little one will have extra protection when sitting inside this great pop-up beach tent.

34. Sesame Street Elmo’s On The Go Letters

The Sesame Street On the Go Letters has a carry case with 26 letters helping your toddler not only have fun but learn the alphabet.

By playing with the On the Go Letters your toddler will learn letter recognition as they snap each letter back in place in the carry case.  

If you want to start spelling words you can use the space at the bottom of the case to place and spell words.

35. Buckle Toys Blu Whale

The Blu Whale Soft toy from Buckle toy offers comfort, development, and educational aspects.

The Blue Whale helps your toddler develop fine motor skills, color recognition, problem-solving skills, and hand-eye coordination.

The whale has a zipper pocket, embroidered numbers & shapes, and six colorful buckles with different clasps.

36. Story Time Finger Puppets

Story Time Finger Puppets are a great toy that helps develop creative play and imagination.

With 20 different puppets, 14 animals, and 6 people family members, there are endless stories that can be created to pass the time when traveling.

The puppets are made from soft cloth felt and fit securely on your toddler’s fingers but are also suitable to fit on adult-sized fingers so you can create stories with your little one as well.

37. Montessori deMoca Quiet Book Toy

The Montessori deMoca Cloth Book is a soft cloth book created to help develop your toddler’s fine motor skills.

With 9 different activities, your toddler will learn colors, shapes, and even how to use snaps and buckles.

Made from cloth materials you can wash this book whenever it needs a cleaning and it even comes with its own zippered washing machine bag to ensure the book keeps its shape during washing.

38. Suction Cup Pop Up Fidget Spinner Toys

Fidget spinner toys are such great toys that all kids love to play with and keep them occupied for hours!

These suction cup pop-up fidget spinner toys are great as they can suction onto the table on the plane when seated to keep your little one entertained during a flight.

They stick on any flat surface so even if you are not flying you can still use them if there is a flat surface.

The suction cup fidget spinners are also small and compact enough to slip into your carry-on bag and take up very little space so are great as a travel toy for toddlers.

To read more about great toys for traveling browse our tried and tested best airplane toys post.

Summary Of The Best T ravel Essentials For Toddlers

Toddlers can get extremely cranky while traveling; the best travel gear for toddlers can make or break the trip. 

We have incorporated various toddler travel must-haves in our recommendations to ensure that there is something worthwhile for everyone’s needs.

Did you know that we also have other helpful guides? Browse our  best travel accessories for kids ‘ guide, our  best baby travel gear , or general  travel gear  guide here.

Till next time, travel safely! I hope you found our guide to the best toddler travel items helpful.

Further Reading:

• Click here to grab more information on how to travel with a toddler .

Jolene Ejmont

5 thoughts on “38 best toddler travel essentials (more fun & less stress in 2024)”.

I love it! i was just planning a trip with my family and i will take my one year old baby, many people point out that it’s not very good to travel with kids as they get stressed on the flight and may make a lot of sense to some extent, however i think it’s great that you wrote this because you don’t know how much help you’re going to do with this!

Allisson, don’t listen to other people and just follow what works for you. You know what, our little one LOVES to fly and out of 50 flights she was only unsettled on maybe 3. Kids are all different though, some personality types handle things better than other. But I’m sure your little one will LOVE all the quality time that they will get to spend with you once they are there. If you are on facebook, come and join us in our little family travel support group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/wsfamilytravelsupportgroup . You will find it is a great place to come and talk to other parents who can give you some insight into what it is like 😉

I read your tips for travelling with kids. This is one of the best ways to travel with kids and very easy and useful gadgets to carry. I am planning a trip with my family and now I’ll also carry these things with me.

This was possibly one of the most brilliant lists I have seen. Planning a major trip soon, and I’ve added so many of these to my must have list! Thank you!

Thank you very much for your kind words, and sorry for the much-delayed response.

Comments are closed.

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10 Tips for Successful Summer Travel with Kids

Get ready for your next vacation with these kid-friendly travel tips, perfect for traveling across country or even globetrotting around the world.

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The summer season is just around the corner, which means that memory-making adventures are on the horizon. After all, the biggest gift we can give our kids is time: time creating, time discovering, and time together. When planning a vacation, whether you’ll be traveling internationally , road-tripping across the country , or romping around in nature at a nearby forest preserve, there’s much to consider. 

As a seasoned travel writer and a mother of three, I’ve been all over the globe with my brood, exploring not only far-flung destinations like Peru, Japan, and India but also closer-to-home outdoorsy locales like our national and state parks. Let me tell you, I’ve learned some helpful tips along the way. Additionally, I’ve reached out to other parents and caregivers, including a pediatric doctor, to get their tips for successful summer travel with kids. 

Take a Deep Breath

Traveling with kiddos for the first time? Akanksha Shrivastava Hanna, MD , pediatrician in Park Ridge, Illinois, says that you should start by taking a deep breath. 

“Parents want to make sure we plan for everyone and everything to create the best trip possible,” says Hanna. “A great step to take is to acknowledge we won’t see or do everything, and that’s fine. Set reasonable goals, [have] a flexible itinerary, be as prepared as you can, and be ready to pivot since travel is not always a smooth process. Making lists is helpful and think of your child's needs for an entire day, including meals, toiletries, car travel, and safe sleep equipment.”

Find a Playground or Outdoor Space

Playing outside is a great way to burn off energy and have a healthy reset. Go on a hike , stop at a local playground, or take the dogs to a fenced-in park. Your little ones will thank you. 

Janette Thompson is currently enjoying a gap year with her family in tow as they travel across Asia. “While traveling we usually research the surrounding areas for playgrounds, parks, and other child-friendly activities,” Thompson says.

If you can swing it, pack everything you need in carry-on luggage . The last thing you want to do on vacation is constantly worry about managing and schlepping everyone’s large suitcases. Rather than checking luggage, waiting for it on the other end at the baggage carousel, or trying to figure out what to do if it gets lost or misplaced, if you carry on what you need, you can fly through the airport much faster. Plus, light luggage makes it easier when switching hotels and locales. 

“Moving large luggage multiple times on a trip is exhausting and logistically challenging,” says Thompson. 

Don’t Stuff Too Much into the Itinerary

I have a confession to make. As a curious traveler, I often operate with FOMO: fear of missing out. When I’m traveling by myself, I like a full itinerary with lots of activities and very little downtime. I want to make the most of my experience, especially if I’m visiting a country I’ve never been to before. But here’s the thing: kids need breaks. Lots of breaks. If you plan too much and don’t leave enough space for their needs or interests, you might find that moods shift and sour. 

Producer, TV host, photographer, and writer, Rachel Rudwall , travels with her family somewhere warm at least once per year. “Take, for example, our journey to Sardinia, Italy from Portland, Oregon. Not a single person would argue that this trip is logistically simple,” Rudwall says. “We would, however, argue that this journey was both doable and   worth the haul—even with our then 14-month-old in tow .”

Sardinia was where her toddler took his first steps, creating an indelible memory not soon forgotten. While the beach time and Italian food were expected highlights, the multi-hour flight itinerary from the U.S. to Sardinia was less than desirable. Rudwall thought ahead and arranged for a two-night stopover in Amsterdam, creating space to deal with jet lag. “This layover allowed us a soft spot to land between our flights, plus a beautiful couple days noshing on pastries and enjoying leisurely strolls in another wonderful European destination,” Rudwall says. “If I were to offer one piece of advice it would be this: wherever you go with your kids, build in buffers. These bonus windows of time will offer you the space to breathe, top up on snacks, and better navigate logistical challenges. Plus, they just might inspire some of your favorite moments of the journey.”

Bring a Travel Medical Kit

While we all hope that nothing goes wrong on a trip, you’ll want to be prepared and plan accordingly. Put together a travel medical kit that includes over-the-counter medicines and supplies. 

“This can include fever-reducing/pain medications, antihistamines, antibacterial ointment, band-aids, tweezers, and Vaseline,” says Hanna. “Make note of your child’s weight for dosing certain medications and make sure you have a supply of prescription medicines ahead of time. Discuss with your medical team if your child has medical conditions.”

“In warmer climates remember to pack reef-safe sunscreens (and reapply), bug sprays, and protective clothing (hats, sunglasses, UV-protected clothing),” Hanna says. “If heading outdoors, be sure to keep most skin covered and check bodies and hair for ticks daily. Before traveling internationally, consider notifying your child’s pediatrician if any additional recommended immunizations can be given. I guide parents to  CDC.GOV/travel  which breaks down pertinent information by country of travel.”

Research the Hotel and Destination Ahead of Time

While it’s advisable to leave plenty of open space on the itinerary, it’s important to research where you’re going and to know what activities and cultural experiences are available. What is the area known for and what are the highlights that everyone should know about? You’ll also want to know what the hotel amenities are so you can plan accordingly. Is there a swimming pool at the hotel? On-site laundry? Does the resort have a concierge that can arrange tours? Finding a property that is fun for both the parents and the kids is key. 

Let the Kids Be Part of the Planning 

If children are part of the planning process, they’ll be more invested in the trip. Let them decide which restaurant your family eats at or what activity everyone participates in. Teach kids how to navigate and read maps. Bring journals and encourage them to write about their daily adventures.  

“Parents can get caught up in the things they want to do on vacation since kids don't exactly plan these things out, but we've made it a priority to make sure that the kids think of it as their vacation too, so if we pass by something that interests them, we want to make those things happen as much as possible,” says Thompson. 

Keep the Ages of Kids in Mind When Planning and Packing

Whether you’re traveling with toddlers or teens, you’ll want to consider your children’s ages when structuring an itinerary or thinking about safety issues. 

“With younger children we want them to be comfortable and safe, so keep some soothing items from home such as blankets, pacifiers, a few toys, or a stuffy,” says Hanna. “Older kids can enjoy music, books, card games or using their electronic device[s]—remember, parents get to decide how much screen time their child consumes, and don't forget the chargers!”

Of course, safety should always be top of mind. Depending on your children’s ages, have discussions with them to go over the rules. “In new environments, review the safety plans regarding water play (never leave a child unattended near water) and review parent phone numbers—consider putting them inside their pockets,” says Hanna. “Trusting our older kids with more responsibility comes with varying comfort levels, but in a semi-controlled environment, this can be a good opportunity for them to demonstrate it, i.e., reading the map, guiding you through the airport, having them order their meals or pay for souvenirs. Learning how to budget on a trip with spending money is a nice exercise.”

Bring a Bag O’ Fun

For every car trip I’ve ever planned, I’ve always brought a “bag o’ fun”. This could be a deck of cards, snacks, new books, or mini-Lego sets. The idea is to bring along little surprises or fun things to do that will brighten up the moment.

Anastasia Gonzalez and her husband Gilbert take their grandchildren to South Padre Island every summer for fishing and exploring. One year they rented an RV to travel from Illinois to Texas. “It was the most beautiful experience,” Gonzalez says. “The driving, the board games, camping out, taking showers at the campsites, sleeping in the RV, and cuddling with those two boys was wonderful and cozy.”

Her advice for grandparents? “Allow your grandchildren to be themselves with you on your trip,” Gonzalez says. “Go with the idea of having fun. Break some rules. Ask what they want but have a plan. Make meals interesting and make one night a special meal night.”

Attitudes, Good or Bad, are Contagious

Most parents who travel with their kids will tell you that if one person has a bad attitude, that same mood can transfer to siblings or even adults. Staying positive is key, especially if you’re on a long vacation away from the comforts of home. 

“Kids love time with their family, but they are humans, and we all get moody sometimes,” says Hanna. “Our kids learn by our example, so parents take the lead with many deep breaths, exercise when possible, be mindful about handling stressful situations, and take lots of pictures. Parental well-being trickles down into children's well-being.”

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Items to pack if you’re traveling with your toddler

If you're a parent, you know that traveling with a toddler can sometimes feel like embarking on a perilous expedition.

The payoff is high but so are the challenges: balancing activities and nap schedules, praying they'll sleep on the plane and, of course, remembering to pack everything you need. It's a lot to manage, but if there's one thing I've learned, it's this: The right gear can make even the most stressful parts of a trip feel manageable.

Over the past few years, I've road-tested various products to make our family adventures smoother. Here's what's worked (and what hasn't) for me. Packing the right baby and toddler travel essentials can save your family trips from descending into chaos, so you can, dare I say it ... have fun.

Nanit Pro Smart Baby Monitor & Flex Stand "Travel Pack"

Keeping an eye on my little one is a top priority, and the Nanit Camera Travel Pack has been a key part of my travel toolkit. Its sharp image quality and compact design make it useful both at home and on the road.

Note: When used with the portable Flex Stand for travel, it loses key features that it has at home, like tracking how long a child has been sleeping. The Flex Stand also can't track breathing (if you use the breathing band).

The Flex Stand is also relatively short, often requiring me to stack it on top of something for a better view of my toddler. It's not perfect, but it still provides a sense of comfort and security when we're away from home.

Buy: Nanit Pro Smart Baby Monitor & Flex Stand "Travel Pack" from $199 Buy: Nanit Flex Multi-Stand from $38.49

Hatch Rest+

Helping a toddler fall asleep in an unfamiliar environment can be tricky, especially after a long day on the road. The Hatch Rest+ is another favorite baby product we use in our everyday lives and pack for travel. The Hatch Rest+ functions as a sound machine, lullaby player, night-light and more; it dulls unexpected noises and helps keep bedtime routines intact wherever we are.

One big consideration: Without being plugged in, the Hatch Rest+ battery will only run for eight hours — considerably shorter than a typical toddler night. So, be sure to pack the power cord on your trip.

If you're planning to use the Hatch Rest+ in a destination without electrical outlets, I recommend having a backup plan like the new white noise function on an iPhone or a downloaded white noise podcast (yes, those exist). Alternatively, consider purchasing a similar product from another brand with a longer battery life.

Buy: Hatch Rest+ (first generation) from $119.00

Inglesina Fast Table Chair

Dining out with a toddler can be quite an adventure, but the Inglesina Fast Table Chair has made the experience less complicated for us.

Initially, I found the setup of the Inglesina to be a bit confusing because of the Ikea-style, picture-based instructions. Once I figured out the process, though, it felt straightforward. (Make sure the arms surround the table and twist the bottom arm until it's tight.)

However, remember that the chair's security is only as good as the table it's attached to. While the chair can handle the weight of your child, it's important to make sure the table itself won't tip over.

We used the Inglesina Fast Table Chair multiple times on a family trip to Cape Cod. Many restaurants didn't have booster seats or high chairs available. Thankfully, it was easy for me to run and grab our Inglesina from the back of our car and set it up.

If you're looking for alternatives, the less travel-friendly Bumbo and the Nuby travel booster seat for older kids are also good options.

Buy: Inglesina Fast Table Chair from $79

Ryobi ONE+ 18-Volt Clamp Fan (plus extra batteries)

Heat can turn any pleasant, happy kid into a tantrum-throwing nightmare. That's why I've found the impressively powerful Ryobi Clamp Fan to be an absolute lifesaver. Yes, you read that right. Ryobi, a company best known for power tools, has created several handy gadgets compatible with their drill batteries.

Even on its lowest setting, the fan provides a quality breeze, which helps keep my daughter cool all summer long. In terms of build quality, it's sturdy and reliable, unlike most flimsy baby fans that tend to break easily.

I decided to invest in the Ryobi fan after a disappointing experience with an "octopus leg" baby fan, and I haven't looked back since.

One of its standout features is the incredible battery life. We used the fan throughout the summer without needing to charge it once — a testament to its endurance.

Unexpected bonus: Tool enthusiasts, including grandpa-esque 8-year-olds, will approach you and compliment your choice of fan.

Buy: Ryobi ONE+ 18-Volt Cordless 4 in. Clamp Fan (+ extra batteries) from $79.99

Amazon Basics Portable Travel Window Blackout Curtains

Consistency is key when it comes to a toddler's sleep schedule. The Amazon Basics Portable Travel Window Blackout Curtains have been another great addition to our daughter's travel essentials for this reason.

These curtains are user- and travel-friendly. They come in a storage pouch and feature sturdy suction cups that make installation a breeze. The strong light-blocking ability helps re-create a familiar sleep environment for my toddler no matter where we are.

But like any product relying on suction cups, these curtains can sometimes come loose. I've noticed this happening occasionally during our travels.

Overall, the cups are well made and don't feel flimsy, but they require a regular check to ensure they're secure.

Buy: Amazon Basics Portable Travel Window Blackout Curtains from $23.99

Wireless Travel Router (TP-Link AC750 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router)

In today's digital age, a reliable internet connection is as necessary as any other travel essential. This handy router has proven to be a game changer for me.

We all know the frustration of trying to connect to a hotel's Wi-Fi, only to be faced with tedious login procedures or terms and conditions pages. A travel router simplifies this process, letting you connect once and create a secondary Wi-Fi network for easy access.

This feature is especially crucial when dealing with devices like baby monitors that typically struggle with, or simply cannot connect to, standard hotel Wi-Fi logins.

It also offers a second layer of security for internet browsing and protects your devices from potential threats on public networks. I found this especially comforting for the baby monitor.

Buy: Wireless Travel Router (TP-Link AC750 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router) from $35.99

4moms Breeze Plus Portable Playard

The 4moms Breeze Plus Portable Playard is more expensive than most other travel cribs on the market, but believe me, it's worth every penny.

Its lightweight design is a huge plus, but what sets it apart is how quick and easy it is to set up. Simply press down on the center button, and it clicks into place — there's no wrestling with complicated instructions or mechanisms.

Compared to other portable cribs I've seen — like the ones from Graco — the 4moms Breeze Plus is significantly less bulky and easier to manage.

Buy: 4moms Breeze Plus Portable Playard from $299.99

A Good Foldable Stroller

As a family, we are loyal to the UppaBaby Vista V2. Despite its hefty size, it's been an excellent stroller that we use every day in our walkable neighborhood.

With its large wheels, it's like having a monster truck to navigate any terrain. We realized that we needed a more lightweight option for travel that doesn't take up the entire trunk. Seeking a travel-friendly alternative, we decided to try Vista's close competitor Nuna's Trvl stroller, which had received glowing reviews from children's product critics and customers.

I hate to say how disappointed we were. The stroller struggled with even the slightest of obstacles, from a 1-inch crack in the sidewalk to compact, level gravel.

It felt like it was designed for perfectly smooth surfaces and failed in real-world conditions. The stroller's instability was a constant concern, posing a tipping hazard even on minimally bumpy sidewalks. However, it was lightweight and easy to fold (whether behind your restaurant table or in a plane overhead bin) with one hand.

We have given every person who has taken our daughter out the option of using the UppaBaby Vista V2 or the Nuna Trvl. They would all rather deal with the Vista's bulkiness than the Trvl's instability. We're still searching for the perfect travel stroller that can handle multiple types of situations and environments while also being compact and easy to manage.

Buy: UppaBaby Vista V2 from $999.99 Buy: Nuna Trvl stroller from $450

Bottom line

Remember, what works best with your toddler will depend on your specific needs and circumstances. Prioritize what's most important for your family's comfort and convenience. Traveling with a toddler doesn't have to be a daunting task. With the right gear, the experience can be a beautiful memory instead of a headache.

Related reading:

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• 12 credit cards that can get you $1,000 or more in first-year value

12 Ingenious Space-Saving Products for Travel with Kids

I n my last decade plus of travel with kids, I found it was often hard to pack light – especially with younger ones in tow. Nevertheless, I made it my mission to travel with less whenever possible. One of my secrets to traveling lighter without leaving behind essential kid gear is taking along space-saving versions of items we use daily. If it can fold up, collapse, or inflate, it is probably high on my list.

The space-saving products that have come out since my oldest was born – both in terms of quantity and quality – are impressive. So many of these products are perfect for travel, even on many airlines where checked bags now usually cost you a pretty penny if you have to travel with full size gear.

If you are looking to travel light too, there are so many really innovative space-saving products for traveling with children. I’ve personally purchased and used the vast majority of the items on the list – some of them more than once for my second kid or as gifts. I have included a few well-reviewed extras that have caught my eye or come recommended by friends and family, especially since several of my favorite small businesses specializing kid gear didn’t survive the closures of the last few years.

So without further ado, let’s dive into the gear. Here are a dozen super smart and creative baby, toddler and kid gear products designed with space-saving and travel convenience in mind.

(Trips With Tykes uses affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through links in this post. See our full disclosure policy linked in the menu at the bottom of this site.)

12 Best Compact Kid Travel Products

1. Bitybean Ultra-Compact Baby Carrier

Baby carriers are travel essentials if you have infants or toddlers. The Bitybean carrier is as small as it gets without sacrificing comfort – it’s the size of a bottle of water and held up well in my family even for a Grand Canyon hike with a squirmy 18 month old .

Unfortunately, it looks like Bitybean is no longer manufacturing new inventory, so it’s getting harder and harder to find the remaining carriers for sale. For now, snag one at Walmart while you can but when those go, the next best alternative is the Boba Air .

Check out my full review of Bitybean for more details and photos.

2. Bubble Bum Booster Seat

Once your child reaches that magical age of 4 years old and magical weight of 40 pounds, you can leave behind the bulk of air travel with car seats and use a booster instead. And although low back boosters are pretty travel-friendly, you can go even smaller when needed.

The BubbleBum is the original inflatable travel booster seat. It’s small enough to fit in a carry-on or front pocket of a checked suitcase deflated. And it’s even small enough to throw in a large purse, backpack or day bag – perfect for carrying around while you are taking cabs and Uber/Lyft rides with kids  at your destination.

It has become our family’s most-used kid travel product, hands down.

(Editor’s Note: For a long time, the main competitor to the BubbleBum was the mifold foldable booster seat. That seems to be gone now for good!)

3. RideSafer Travel Vest

If you have a younger child or even just a restless one who can’t quite be trusted to sit property in a booster seat, you may want to look at the Ride Safer Travel Vest instead. This product is another helpful and compact restraint for use in cars. It can be used for kids as young as 3 and a minimum of 30 pounds.

The concept is pretty simple but innovative – instead of lifting a child up like a booster so an adult seatbelt fits, it brings the seatbelt down to fit. It’s pricey though, so this is a product best saved for families who travel frequently and/or who live in urban destinations where they might be ridesharing a lot.

Beware that there are dozens of knockoff product on Amazon and other retailers that are made to look like this vest. The giveaways of the fakes are usually the cute colors and cheap prices, so don’t be led astray (the link above is to the authentic product!).

4. Foldable Beach Pails

My kids have loved making use of sand toys on our beach vacations. But carrying them along can get bulky fast – certainly for air travel but even on road trips where trunk space is at a premium.

I always investigate first whether our vacation destination has an activity desk that loans out sand toys (one of our favorites, Disney’s Aulani does!). But if not, we have tried to bring a few items instead of buying and throwing away more plastic each trip.

A number of companies now offer collapsible silicone sand buckets perfect for packing flat for travel. They increasingly have some with patterns and designs now too – way more than the basic bucket that first came on the market when my oldest was little.

5. KidCo PeaPod Travel Bed

The PeaPod is the most compact toddler travel bed on the market. It’s similar to a small sun tent with a very thin padded mattress that sits underneath the tent.

It has a variety of travel uses as well. We have used our PeaPod for naps at friend’s houses, at the beach to keep a crawling baby contained, and even as a backup travel bed if we are staying in hotels where we are unsure if a crib will be available. Our son was able to use his well past his 4th birthday, so we got several years of use out of it before passing it down to a cousin who continues using it today. We definitely got our money’s worth!

Related: Where Should My Baby or Toddler Sleep in our Travels?

Note that the PeaPod is only approved for 12 months and up, so you’ll need other solutions for safe sleeping for the youngest infants.

6. Shrunks Travel Bed  

For slightly older toddlers and younger kids, this toddler air mattress is a comfortable extra bed solution for hotels, vacation rentals, or grandma’s house. Why pay those expensive rollaway bed fees in hotels if you don’t have to?

The Shrunks Travel Bed has bumpers along the side to keep toddlers from easily rolling out. While there are a number of inflatable mattresses on the market, this one is more compact because of its toddler size, but can still be used well beyond the toddler years. Our daughter slept in it even as old as 10 years!

7. Bago Travel Backpack Daypack

This isn’t exactly a kid product, but it’s a product that travelers with kids may find quite helpful. I often find I need an extra bag as a trip goes on – our family picks up souvenirs and snacks and our while we get lazy about packing our bags as efficiently as we did at the start of a trip.

The bago Lightweight Small Hiking Backpack is super-compact backpack and is a great option for luggage overflow or simply to use as a daypack on excursions or family outings.

8. Cozy Cover Portable Easy Seat

Unless you want to dine with a toddler on your lap at all times on vacation, having a highchair or travel booster is a nice thing. There are some smaller hard sided booster seats that are road-trip worthy like the Nuby Easy Go Safety or the hiccapop ErgoBoost .

But if you are getting on a plane, you need something even more compact than that. The Cozy Cover Easy Seat is a super-small cloth harness that functions as a travel highchair for restaurants or in hotels and condos on vacation. It fits over the back of a standard dining chair and secures older babies and toddlers in the regular seat. Check out my full review for more details .

9. My Brest Friend Inflatable Nursing Pillow

I was never very good at nursing my kids without a positioning pillow, but all the nursing pillows on the market were so bulky on airplanes. Luckily, this product came out in time for my second child and I took it with me on several long flights during my nursing days. 

It inflates in seconds and makes nursing so much easier, especially at the infant stage where babies can’t hold their own heads up. When I wasn’t traveling, I kept this in my trunk for nursing while out running errands. Highly recommended!

10.  OXO Tot Travel Size Drying Rack with Bottle Brush

When traveling with babies and toddlers, the work of cleaning sippy cups, bottles, and breast pump pieces doesn’t stop. This little drying rack with included bottle brush is compact and provides a clean, self-contained space for your items to dry.

11. Ergonomic Baby Bouncer Seat by ComfyBumpy

Both of my children spent a lot of their pre-crawling days in bouncy seats – so much so that we bought multiple seats for different places we traveled often. The idea of creating one that could fold flat didn’t come to real life fruition until after my kids had graduated from the bouncer, but the products that are on the market now are impressively convenient.

ComfyBumpy has created a basic model that folds completely flat for travel. At just 5.5 pounds, it can easily be thrown in your trunk or even packed in a suitcase for your next trip.

12.  Summer Pop ‘N Jump SE Portable Baby Activity Center

My kiddos loved their exersaucers and jumperoos back home, but face it – those are way too large to take on a trip. Summer Infant has come out with a portable stand up play station that folds similar to a folding camp chair. At just one pound, it’s far lighter than previous portable products that attempted to provide the same functionality.

This is a particularly useful tool to contain your baby or toddler while you need to take a shower in places that might not be childproofed like a hotel room or at grandma’s house. I can also be a safe place to keep a baby corralled at outdoor destination thanks to the partial sunshade too.

The post 12 Ingenious Space-Saving Products for Travel with Kids appeared first on Trips With Tykes .

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The Best Men’s Running Shorts, According to Runners

In this article

• Brief-lined shorts
• 2-in-1 shorts

Half tights

The Strategist happens to be full of runners, so this week, we hit the ground running (literally), testing tons of running gear and interviewing experts to give every kind of runner all the intel they might need. Welcome to  Running Week .

Running shorts have the power to make a run fantastic or ruin it. In my 15 years of running, I’ve tested shorts that feel like a second skin, while others have left me chafed, wedgied, and uncomfortable. Much like a good pair of gym shorts , the ideal pair of men’s running shorts will offer support, but not feel too restrictive; its material should be thin and breathable, but able to withstand everything from the occasional jog to a season of marathon training; and lastly, it should look good.

There are generally three types of running shorts: the most common have a classic brief liner — a good choice if you want something non-restrictive; boxer-brief lined shorts have a longer liner that hugs the thighs; and half-tights can come in lined or unlined options. For any type, one of the most important features for runners is storage: you need pockets to hold your gels, keys, phone, and other items that you take with you. Purely because of their design, many brief-liner running shorts simply don’t have the pockets available to carry a lot of gear. Two-in-one shorts, with their boxer-brief style liners, have more pocket options, but sometimes the liner on these shorts is loose and can feel more like a semi-tight pair of underwear. That’s where half tights come in — they offer a more compressive feeling that eliminates any jostling, and are a great option if you need upwards of four pockets to carry multiple gels for long races like marathons.

After testing close to two dozen different pairs, I’ve landed on some favorites that I would heartily recommend to runners of all levels. Below, you’ll find my picks, as well as top selections from running experts who have logged countless miles in multiple pairs themselves.

Brief-lined running shorts

If you’re looking for a daily workhorse of a short, I’d recommend the Session. I’ve worn both the five- and seven-inch versions of the Session since 2019 for all types of runs, from daily training sessions to track workouts and long runs, and they have shown no signs of wear. Much like the rest of the brand’s apparel, the Session has a collegiate aesthetic with a uniform-like cut, but it has a buttery-soft texture that makes it great for lounging around in, too. It’s also a favorite of Citius Mag founder Chris Chavez .

I’ve been running in my pair of five-inch Nike shorts since 2013, and that longevity is one of the reasons why they’re one of my most frequently recommended shorts . They’re not as soft as the Tracksmith shorts, but Nike’s technical fabric is lighter and slightly more breathable, which makes these great for hot days. Since the shorts have a brief liner, their pocket options are limited to a single zip pocket on the back. But that simplicity is why Danny Perez , a New York City–based editor and marathoner, prefers these shorts for fast workouts. “I use them for shorter distances or speed stuff when I run with my phone in-hand to check pace or times,” he says.

Matt Klein, DPT, professor of physical therapy at West Coast University Center for Graduate Studies, and founder of the blog Doctors of Running , prefers a shorter inseam, reminiscent of racing shorts. “I go through a ton of shorts,” Klein says. “ I am highly biased toward short split shorts.” One of his favorites right now is the Core Sunset Splitz two-inch shorts. “For those of us who wear race day-type shorts every day, this has been a great option,” he says. “The two internal key pockets are also important, as storage is a must!”

Two-in-one running shorts

As I wrote in my roundup of the best gym shorts , these five-inch inseam shorts are my new favorites after testing them for two seasons of marathon training. The standout feature is the fabric, which is surprisingly breathable for how smooth and silky it feels (typical tech fabrics with this texture aren’t normally as airy). The Litewave’s boxer-brief-style liner doesn’t bunch up, and it has a zippered back pocket, plus a hidden phone pocket on the thigh. The Litewave’s liner fits me a bit looser than a pair of half-tights would, so keep that in mind if you like a more compressed feel — or want a more secure pocket for your phone (my phone jostles around in the thigh pocket). Mike Ko, a running shoe reviewer known online as Kofuzi , is a fan of the Litewave. “It’s got a super comfy liner that is stretchy yet somehow able to still hold a phone. The outer shell is light and flowy and feels great for fast runs and easy summer days alike,” he says.

These five-inch-inseam shorts from Ciele have been in my regular rotation of running shorts for the past eight months. Their longer, stretchy polyester liner feels soft and breathable, especially on sweaty runs. (I find the liner more comfortable than some of my boxer briefs, which is why I wear these when lounging around at home, too.) These shorts have a zippered back pocket plus a hidden phone pocket on the thigh.

Similar to the Litewave shorts above, these four-inch inseam shorts from Bandit combine a breathable outer fabric with a comfortable boxer-brief liner. Perez prefers these four-inch shorts for the majority of his running because of the Vento’s storage options (two hand pockets, two thigh pockets, and a back zippered pocket). “The phone pockets on the liner are great,” he says.

These half tights from Janji are the best I’ve tried because of their lightweight feel and smart storage options. I’ve run half-marathons and 10Ks in them, and have used them for daily training in the winter and summer. They have two deep thigh pockets that work well for phones or bigger gels, and two other thigh pockets on top of them for smaller items like additional nutrition. Perez says these tights turned him into a half-tight evangelist, and noted that he’s used them for long runs and his last two marathons. [ Note: They’re a runner favorite and frequently sell out. Keep an eye out for restocks, but also check retailers like REI and Fleet Feet . ]

I’ve been on a yearlong hunt for a pair of half-tights that don’t chafe. (With all that compression, there’s bound to be rubbing down below, especially over the length of a run). While I haven’t found the perfect pair — I’m not sure one exists — these unlined half-tights from Rabbit come very close. Their polyester-spandex feels soft on the skin in a way that doesn’t feel as tech-y as other sport fabrics, and their fit feels secure throughout the whole thigh. Mike Ko agrees: “It fits great, with just the right amount of compression. And it’s got enough pockets to carry all your gels for the marathon.” It has two thigh pockets and a back zippered pocket that’s actually big enough to fit a phone.

I run hot. In colder months, I prefer running in shorts or half tights, but still want them in a more substantial fabric while training so I don’t freeze, especially while I’m taking rest breaks in between laps on a track workout. The Allston is the pair I reach for because it has a thick, nylon-elastane fabric and a compressive fit. They have a brief liner (and are available unlined as well), which offers another level of support to keep everything in place. They also have grippy gel-like bands around the thighs that keep them from riding up, which is why I prefer them for fast track workouts and speed work, where there’s a lot of movement, and where I don’t want to worry about my shorts getting in the way of my stride. Much like the Trackmith’s Session shorts, I’ve found the Allston half tights to be supremely durable — the most durable out of the half tights in my rotation.

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I took my kids on their first Amtrak. Our $336 roundtrip train to NYC had significant delays, but I'd do it again.

• I took my two kids on the Amtrak for the first time to get from Albany to New York City.
• Being able to look out the window and walk around during the trip was huge for us.
• We faced significant delays on the train, but I'd choose the Amtrak over driving in the future.

My husband and I recently traveled with our two kids from Albany to New York City to visit family.

Although we could've hopped in the car, we decided it was the perfect opportunity for our kids to experience their first Amtrak train ride.

With over 30 routes across the country, Amtrak is probably the best-known train company in the US. In 2023 alone, its trains transported over 28 million passengers .

Here's what it was like taking two young children on a 300-mile round-trip train journey across New York and back — and why I'd choose it over sitting in traffic any day.

We experienced delays right away.

As we got into the car to leave for the train station , I got a text saying our train was delayed, but that it was unclear how long the delay would be.

We got to the station to find a big crowd and learned that the train scheduled before ours hadn't even left yet.

I immediately worried that my first train trip with the kids would be a travel nightmare . I was surprised and relieved to find that the staff was professional and forthcoming with information.

We passed the time exploring the station and buying snacks and were en route exactly an hour late.

Once we boarded and set off, my kids loved looking out the window.

The trip from Albany to NYC features views of rivers and small towns along the way.

The kids loved looking out the window and pointing things out to each other. It served as entertainment and helped pass the time.

Being able to move around was a big help.

Our Amtrak train featured a few four-seater sections, where pairs of seats faced one another. This gave my kids an area to stand up and wiggle around in, which really helped them stay comfortable.

Plus, my little one was small enough that she could stretch out and get comfortable when she needed a rest.

In the car, we would've had to stop for plenty of bathroom breaks, especially for our recently potty-trained 3-year-old.

Luckily there was a bathroom on the train, which was a huge benefit. Walking there and back was a nice way to break up the trip.

The kids felt totally welcome on the train.

My kids were pretty well-behaved on the trip, but you never know what it's going to be like traveling with little ones .

Surprisingly, I didn't worry once that they were being too disruptive just by existing — the way I've felt on planes before.

Our fellow passengers were kind to my kids, too. One even shared some snacks with them.

We didn’t arrive at our destination with the usual “stuck in the car” energy.

When we have a long drive, there's always a period after the trip where my kids are full of built-up, restless energy from being cooped up.

Arriving in the city on the train was very different. Everyone was energetic and happy, and we got right on the NYC subway without any outbursts.

We experienced significant delays in both directions, but I’d still do the train again.

When it was time to return to Albany, we also had about an hour's delay. Although delays in both directions led to some unpredictability, so does traffic on road trips.

Overall, the train's benefits outweighed its unpredictability. We'll definitely take the Amtrak again.

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Storm Lake Municipal Band to begin concert series June 2

The storm lake municipal band is one of the communities longest-running traditions..

STORM LAKE Ia. (KTIV) - The Storm Lake Municipal Band will return with an all-new concert series, beginning on June 2.

The first concert of this year’s series begins on Sunday, June 2 at 2 p.m. Similar to past years, the event will feature a classic car show in the park. Owners of classic, vintage vehicles are invited to bring their cars to show off with no registration needed.

The band performs each Sunday during June into the first week of July at 2 p.m. except for a Kids Day Show on Sunday, June 9 beginning at 3 p.m. so residents can feature both events. Featuring traditional marches to classical works etc.; performances will take place at the bandshell, located at Sunset Park.

As in years past, the band will perform on the first night of the Star-Spangled Spectacular this year. On July 3, the band will perform a patriotic collection alongside the Spectacular’s Patriotic Ceremony with music starting at 5:45 p.m. Additionally, the band will also open for the Pork Tornadoes.

The final show of the series will take place on July 7 at 2 p.m.

The city of Storm Lake says everyone is invited to come to the shows which are free of charge. Even though additional seating has been added to the bandshell, the city says guest may want to bring lawn chairs or a blanket to find a viewing location of their personal choice.

The Storm Lake Municipal Band is filled with volunteer musicians of all ages who share their love of performing. The band also welcomes new members including high school and college-aged musicians. Rehearsals begin May 28.

For more information or updates on concerts and show themes, see the band’s Facebook page. follow this link.

Copyright 2024 KTIV. All rights reserved.

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Things to Do in Elektrostal, Russia - Elektrostal Attractions

Things to do in elektrostal.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Budget-friendly
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Electrostal History and Art Museum

2. Statue of Lenin

3. Park of Culture and Leisure

4. museum and exhibition center.

5. Museum of Labor Glory

7. Galereya Kino

8. viki cinema, 9. smokygrove.

10. Gandikap

11. papa lounge bar, 12. karaoke bar.

Illinois high school seniors play 'all-time best' prank on principal, hire bagpipes player

No one is doing old-school pranks quite like a group of seniors at an Illinois high school, who hired a professional bagpipes player to tail their principal for an hour. 

It didn’t take much convincing to get Scott Whitman , a Pipe Major for Celtic Cross Pipes and Drums , on board. He liked the idea from the start. 

"I used to teach high school for 7 years. We all know what senior pranks can look like. Some can be destructive, others leave messes. I had a lot of respect for them figuring something out that avoided all that and was funny,” Whitman shared with the Peoria Journal Star , part of the USA TODAY Network. 

The request was pretty surprising to Whitman, who usually plays at funerals, weddings, or birthdays. It was his first senior prank request. 

"I probably went through 20 different tunes. I went through my whole repertoire. He (Robison) walks fast. I felt like I was jogging, but he was a great sport about it. Classrooms were emptying out, people were laughing, dancing, it was great. I loved doing it," Whitman shared.

Billy Robison, principal of Richwoods High School in Peoria, was followed through its halls from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. last Thursday. 

“I had a great time with the guy, he was phenomenal. Teachers were coming out of classrooms to see what was happening. Kids following along,” Robison said.

Mariachi band was expensive and out of the way

Maggie Moore and Pierce Hill, tennis playing seniors, were scrolling through Pinterest for senior prank inspiration.

“I was looking at mariachi bands …  the idea was to have them follow (Robison) around. But it was around Cinco de Mayo and prices were really high, and they were all based out of Chicago,” Moore shared. 

Bagpipes came to mind as Moore began to think about other possibilities. She thought about how much she liked playing Scottish music when growing up. "It was Plan B, but it worked better," she said.

Moore and Pierce did a quick Facebook search and landed on Celtic Cross Pipes and Drums , a group of accomplished musicians. 

"Everybody loved it. People started dancing to it, clapping to it, following it. He went from the main office, to the gym, then upstairs to the top floor, down and out and a block outside. Probably a mile and half,” Hill said. 

Terry Cole, Richwoods High tennis coach, said the seniors went about it in the right way. They bounced the idea off him, then athletic director Jeff Crusen and cleared it with school administrators, all while keeping Robison in the dark.

“I thought it was hysterical," Cole said. "There's this one part where Billy is walking across the gym trying to talk to someone while the bagpipe guy is behind him, playing. The bagpiper never asked for anything. Maggie got him a $100 gift card. The whole thing was light-hearted and funny."

'All-time’ best prank 

Moore and Hill pulled off a difficult feat. They executed a well thought out prank that left “nothing broken, no one hurt and no mess to clean up,” Principal Robison said. 

It will forever be known as the “all-time best prank … I loved it."

"I love bagpipes. The kids didn't know that. He showed up at the office and started playing, and said, 'I'm gonna follow you around for an hour.' I said 'OK, let's go.' He gave the kids their money's worth. Everyone had a great time,” Robison shared. 

The clip of the prank has been a topic of conversation online, cementing its place as a solid prank. 

"It was a lot better than I hoped," Moore shared. "I didn't realize they were going to be as loud as they were. We ended up going outside. Mr. Robison loved it."

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Breaking news, joey mcintyre’s catholic mom once called new kids on the block’s record company.

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She made sure they did “ The Right Stuff .”

New Kids on the Block singer Joey McIntyre’s mom wanted to ensure that the world-famous boy band kept it clean and wholesome.

“My mother was a staunch Catholic. I mean, she actually called the record company [because] there was a little too much cleavage in one of our videos and was like, ‘Change that clip,'” McIntyre, 51, the youngest of the five band members, told The Post.

McIntyre, the youngest of nine children, is thankful his late mom was so religious.

“I mean, thank God, because I wouldn’t be here, right? I mean, birth control was not an option, so that’s why they had nine kids. They just kept going, God Bless them.”

The pop star and his fellow bandmates — Donnie Wahlberg, Danny Wood and brothers Jordan and Jonathan Knight — released their eighth album “Still Kids” on Friday, their first in 11 years, and will embark on a 40-city concert tour this summer .

The group, which formed in 1984, disbanded in 1994, but reunited in 2008 because the timing was right, McIntyre said.

“You have to be patient. And I think a lot of people wanted us to get together for award shows or their TV show, all this stuff. And we knew we had something more special than that,” he said.

“And so when we were ready and we did do it, our fans were ready too.”

The guys enjoyed their fame in the ’80s and ’90s.

“I don’t think we were celibate, let’s put it that way. I mean, we were teenagers,” he said.

Even before the internet, girls were tracking them down.

“Oh, God, I mean, they were at our houses. It was crazy,” said McIntyre, who grew up in the suburbs of Boston.

Before the advent of social media, the boys had a hotline that fans, known as “Blockheads,” could call to hear pre-recorded messages from the group — unbeknownst to their parents.

“Now it’s famous for fans telling us all the time that they got grounded because their parents wouldn’t know and they’d find the phone bills and go, ‘What’s this $50 for?'” he said.

“ Pink was famously grounded for calling in to our number.”

In February, they created a free hotline — 1-806-NEW-KIDS — where callers now hear a message from Wahlberg from the set of his TV series “Blue Bloods.”

“And it’s free, so you can call all you want,” McIntyre said.

When McIntyre, who was the last member to join NKOTB, was recruited, he was 12 and doing community theater.

“Our manager, Mary Alford, at the time was just calling around public schools to see if there were any little white kids who could sing and dance. And there weren’t many of us,” he recalled.

McIntyre, who lived with his wife, Barrett Williams , a Lincoln Square native, and their three children on the Upper West Side from 2018 to 2020, before the family moved back to Los Angeles, recounted the band’s humble beginnings in the Big Apple.

“When the New Kids first were trying to make it, New York was everything and we would drive down, packed in one car and knock on doors and pound the pavement, like, literally,” he said.

“We would go into people’s offices and sing and that’s how we got to the Apollo Theater is literally, running into the guy who booked it.”

They didn’t have instant success, and had to wait until the 1988 release of their second album “Hangin’ Tough,” which became the nation’s second best-selling album the following year — to achieve superstardom.

“We didn’t make it for like three years. We were just hustling, trying to get gigs. Our first album flopped,” McIntyre said.

NKOTB went on to sell over 100 million albums worldwide, receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and become the first music group to perform at the Super Bowl halftime show .

After the group split, McIntyre launched a solo career and released multiple albums, starred in “Wicked” and “Waitress” on Broadway , and even competed on the first season of “Dancing with the Stars .”

Besides getting fawned over by female fans, McIntyre gets approached by men “all the time” — who want a photo to bring home to their wives or girlfriends.

“Probably more so than the fans themselves,” he said.

“They want to get credit — and do something, get a little bonus.”

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