travelling equipment 1 5 years

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Packing Lists , Travel Advice

20+ toddler travel essentials for 2024 – with packing list.

Items that helped us through the challenging toddler travel years

We’ve never denied that one of the most difficult phases we went through with our children was the toddler years. At home and travelling. The memories are still very fresh!

It never stopped us from travelling, but it certainly added to the amount of gear we needed to lug around the world with us (it’s kind of the same as babies, only it feels bigger and heavier, AND you’re chasing a little one around too!)

Essential Gear for Moving Around With Toddlers

Sleeping away from home, toddler meals on the move  , toddler essentials for flying, toddler entertainment on the move, other essential toddler items not to forget, this post is part of our best toddler travel advice series.

I bet if you’ve picked up this article, you already know toddlers have a mind of their own!  Not all tactics for keeping toddlers nearby when you’re in busy places will work the same. 

We’re going to suggest a few travel accessories for toddlers here that have variously worked with our three children – but we know they won’t suit all!

Toddler harness / reins

Some will love ’em, some will despise them!  Having a cute little character will definitely help your kids grow an attachment to this essential piece of toddler kit for a family trip. Perfect for crowded places, we haven’t left home without one of these for years.

Accmor Toddler Harness Leash

3 in 1 Toddler Harness Leash

Accmor Toddler Backpack Leash

You can see our complete guide to buying toddler reins and harnesses here

Collapsible Stroller

Once you have outgrown a full-sized baby buggy that carries basically your whole life in, it’s time to downgrade to something more sensible, practical, and lightweight for your family vacation.

We love the brands that collapse small enough we can take them right up the plane door and onto the plane with us, fitting into the overhead bin with your carry-on bag.

The Babyzen Yoyo was the first brand to achieve this and is still a great option, but there are many brands that have now followed suit.

We have used our trusty Mountian Buggy Nano for years, but you can also try brands such as the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 or the immensely popular microsized GB Pockit that comes in several variations.

Evenflo GOLD Otto Self-Folding Stroller

Mountain Buggy Nano V3 Stroller

gb Pockit+ All-Terrain

You can see our full guide on how to select the best plane stroller here.

Just be conscious of your child’s height and weight;  hopefully, this investment can last you all the way through to the preschool years. Try not to compromise too much when it comes to your tot still being able to comfortably recline and having a decent-sized shade covering and storage basket, features we would still look for even in a travel stroller. 

We also review the best lightweight double strollers for twins and baby/toddler combinations here.

TIP : If you are still looking to travel with a larger stroller, we suggest you protect your gear when flying or stowing on transport by placing it inside a stroller gate check bag – our full review of your different stroller travel bag options here . 

Toddler Carrier

By now, I am guessing most of you freuent travelers have discovered the joys that a baby carrier brings.  Many brands now see a child all the way through to their toddler years. 

We have used our Ergo across the continents for many years – but with our youngest now 4 (and, to be fair, a happy walker/runner – unlike the first two!!) we are finally ready to say goodbye – one of our best pricier bits of toddler kit we’ve never regretted investing in.

Ergobaby Omni 360 All-Position Baby Carrier

Beco Toddler Carrier with Extra Wide Seat

Infantino Carry On Multi-Pocket Carrier

You can find our comprehensive toddler carrier comparison guide here. 

Hiking Toddler Carrier

For those who do more heavy-duty walking and hiking, you can’t look past the Deuter Kid Comfort Pro . It is one of the most expensive on the market, so you could also look at the Deuter Kid Comfort II which is slightly lighter, but doesn’t include the built-in sunshade.

Deuter Kid Comfort Pro Child Carrier

ClevrPlus Deluxe Adjustable Baby Carrier Outdoor

Luvdbaby Premium Baby Backpack Carrier

See our complete comparison of hiking carrier backpacks here

Car Seats for Toddlers

Outgrown their baby capsule that conveniently fits with their travel system but not ready yet for a simple collapsible booster ?  Yep, this is one phase of travelling with kids that I’m afraid will be with you for a long time, even well beyond the toddler years!

Depending on your child’s age and stage, there are a few options, but inevitably, accept it’s a continual upgrade process (and one of the bulkiest and most inconvenient parts of toddler travel – sorry!)

Where possible, we try to arrange for pick-up services that include a seat or hire cars at a destination – but we know all too well, that travelling home to Australia (where car seat laws are IMMENSELY STRICT) hiring is not financially viable after more than a few days x 3 children, so for years, we’ve kept a complete set of extra toddler seats at the grandparents.  

Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat

Evenflo Chase Harnessed Booster

Britax Emblem 3 Stage Convertible Car Seat

Tip: If you have any intention of travelling with your car seat on the plane, too (you need to buy a separate seat for the infant) then the car seat must be compliant for whichever airline you are flying with. FAA rules are a pretty good for international guidance – but note they apply specifically to US-based carriers, you need to check the rules for the country your carrier falls under.

Find our complete guide on how to travel with car seats on planes here

Don’t forget if you are checking your car seats rather than using them on the plane, you will need to make sure they are adequately protected to prevent handling damage in the hold.

This is our detailed review of the best car seat travel bags .

Toddler Neck Pillow

Another thing we noticed once our kids were out of their snug little capsules and into proper car seats is how much their heads seemed to wobble around when they were drowsy! We’ve researched and tried many a brand of head cushion to get the right fit:

Unicorn Toddler Neck Pillow for Kids

BCOZZY Kids Travel Neck Pillows for Toddlers

INFANZIA Kids Chin Supporting Travel Neck Pillow

You can see our extensive head toddler cushion review here .

Do note, if you want to use them in their car seat, as supposed to say on a train or plane, many of the cute toddler brand ones are too bulky. Microbead products like the BCozzyKids Travel Pillow we have found to be the most adaptable to different positions and modes of transport, even if they look thinner they still do the job well.

Just when you thought you had your nice little routine – then you up sticks and change time zone….. I won’t deny that some of the worst jet lag we have experienced actually happened during the toddler years. 

We have a full guide to jet lag survival with kids you can read here , but the primary things I would worry about packing to conquer this are:

This has been my go-to bedtime tool for years (still IS!). OK, it works a charm for 2/3 kids at least!  No matter where we are in the world, once you have a strict bedtime routine happening, the clock is a great first indicator to them whether they should be getting out of bed or not

Just be conscious of wattage if you are taking any electronic devices with you.  We have lugged many an item halfway around the world to discover it doesn’t work at our destination.  Particularly if you are flying US to a lot of other countries and vice versa, you will need to take not only international plugs but a wattage adaptor, like one of these:

Tommee Tippee Groclock Sleep Trainer Clock

Kids Ok to Wake Clock for Kids  

Hatch Rest Baby Sound Machine

Black Out Curtains

Another thing that helps with sleep patterns and time zone adjustment is having a dark room.  If there’s no guarantee the hotel room at your destination will have blackouts, so this is a great BYO solution if you can afford the space in your luggage, as they are a little bit bulky.

Most portable blackouts stick up with suction cups.

Gro Company Gro-Anywhere Blind

RUseeN Portable Blackout Shades 

Amazon Basics Portable Travel Window Blackout Curtain

Portable Toddler Cot

There’s also no guarantee your destination will have the best sleeping arrangements for your child either.  During these toddler years, we did intentionally look for hotels or apartments that COULD provide us with a cot, but many times especially staying with friends and family this wasn’t an option. We invested early on in a good, lightweight, portable cot (don’t get confused into thinking a bulky pack-n-play pen is the same thing!). 

Phil & Teds Traveller Travel Crib

Milliard Folding Floor Sleeper Cot

Regalo My Cot Pals Portable Toddler Bed

You can see our full range of toddler bed options reviewed here.

We tested the Phil & Teds Traveller a while ago and haven’t looked back since. We still think its one of the lightest and best-priced models on the market, but does take little construction skills.

Portable high chair

You can’t always rely upon every restaurant or hotel having a high chair, so it’s great if you can BYO an easily portable option.  They come in all sorts of designs, from clamp-ons to boosters or cloth wraparounds for restaurant chairs – each with its pros and cons.

Summer Pop ‘n Dine SE Highchair

Baby Delight Go with Me Uplift Deluxe Portable High Chair

Regalo My Chair 2-in-1 Portable Travel Booster Seat

You can see our full review of travelling high chairs (and whether we think they’re worth the luggage space) here.

Spill-proof sippy

You’ve no doubt moved on from purely boob and bottle to a sippy by the toddler stage.  It’s perhaps not until you’re on the move you realise that these things leak so darn much! Or that your toddler terror will do anything to deliberately make them spill! 

We have been through many different brands of leaf-proof sippy cups – just accept no matter which you try, they’re not fail-proof!

Contigo Kids Spill-Proof 14oz Tumbler

First Years Dinosaur Kids Insulated Sippy Cups

Elk and Friends Kids & Toddler Cups

(Note if you are taking any sort of water bottle on a plane, they can pressurise. We have had many a bottle explode water everywhere over the plane when opened… you have been warned!)

Easy clean bibs

Neoprene-style bibs were by far one of our greatest baby-to toddler year discoveries! (Sorry to all our family and friends who received these as gifts from us!) But we truly love them!

They dry so quickly and can be strapped high on your toddler’s neck without choking them so there’s no seep through.  We normally get several wears before they need to go in the wash, and they don’t take up much space, both of which are a good idea for travel.

PandaEar Set of 3 Cute Silicone Baby Bibs for Babies & Toddlers

Nuby 2 Pack Adjustable Easy Clean Soft Silicone Bibs

Snap and Go Easy-wear Bibs for Baby & Toddler

No-spill snack cups

These spill-proof cups might seem like one of the easiest to pack, logical items, but seriously took us years to discover! Do yourself a favour and get one of these for your diaper bag as soon as your kids are onto finger foods. 

They don’t necessarily stop all the crumbs but prevent major spillages and should come everywhere with you, ready to tackle those hangry moments.

Silicone Toddler Snack Cups No Spill

Ubbi Tweat No Spill Snack Container for Kids

Collapsible Silicone Snack Container

Reusable food clips

For when they’re claiming they’re dying of hunger, take two mouthfuls then leave the rest.  Yep, a handful of these cheap but essential clips are a lifesaver in your backpack diaper bag too.

Silicone Food Storage Bags

Otylzto 4 Size Assorted 40 PCS Food Bag Clips

8 Pack Stainless Steel Chip Clips

Snacks, snacks, and more snacks

This is my overriding toddler years memory! OK, there were some classic meltdowns too… But the constant, I’m hungry, minutes after they just declared they were to full for lunch. 

Keeping a good supply of things like rice cakes, carrot sticks, sultanas, cereal bars, and food pouches kept us going on countless day outings and long-haul flights – we have a great list of healthy toddler snack suggestions here.   

Quaker Chewy Granola Bars

Unsweetened Fruit Snacks for Kids

Quaker Large Rice Cakes

Got a little one on the fussy end of the spectrum (aren’t they all?) You’ll want to check out our tips for travelling with picky eaters

Before you read any further, make sure you’ve checked out flying with a toddler section!

Leg cushions for the plane

Guessing you’ve heard these are the latest craze, right? But are they even allowed on planes?  Are they worth the investment? Will my kids actually sleep better on a long flight? What age are they designed for? 

We have tested many of these products on behalf of the manufacturers and have a detailed review, including which airlines allow them here.

BleuWhisk Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed

Inflatable Travel Pillow Airplane Footrest Flight Pillow Toddler

Portable Foot Pillow for Toddler Kids & Adults

So, are these really toddler flight essentials?

My verdict : With one child, set up in the correct position, on a plane that will allow them, yes, they make for a more comfortable flight. But I recommend you read the above article with all the factors to consider before deciding if it’s the right thing for you.  There might be other ways you can get your toddler comfortable without the need for yet more gear (I can see your eyes boggling already how much you have to pack!)

CARES Restraint

As an alternative to taking a full car seat on a plane, but once your tot is simply too big and heavy to take as a lap child, try the FAA-approved CARES Harness.  Ideal for 22-44lbs children – note you do need to have booked the seat to use this.

Cares Airplane Harness for Kids

Airplane Kid Travel Accessories Cares Safety Restraint System

Child Airplane Safety Travel Harness, Safety Restraint

Toddler Plane Bags

You can also see what items we are packing in our toddlers plane bag  here, and read below about toddler entertainment throughout your travels.

Just remember, don’t go over the top when it comes to packing toys for young kids – here are 5 things we definitely recommend do NOT make it into your toddlers plane bag ! 

Wildkin Kids Insulated Lunch Bag

Solar System Planets Kids Backpack Toddler

YUPING Toddler kids Dinosaur Backpack

Tip: Until they are old enough to carry their own bag for the entire journey, do your self a favour and skip the cute novelty rolling bag until they are really ready or you are simply making additional luggage for yourself.  Fine with one kid, but when you have multiple children to consider ….  

Small tablet

We recommend these only for your older toddlers verging on preschool age.  I don’t recommend them for younger toddlers because I know how frustrated mine got when they couldn’t raise the sound, and I’m a strict headphones-only mamma when it comes to electronic devices being used in public places. 

And you reckon you can make a small toddler keep headphones on?

We have snapped our way through too many pairs (yes, even those claiming to be best ‘unbreakable’ on the market) through to your cheapest Walmart ones. NOTHING works on a wiggly toddler, so tablets are a no-go until they can sit still or survive on mute. 

When your toddler is ready to try, here are the best toddler headphone brands we recommend you start with.

For years we gave our kids our hand-me-down ipads but as they are starting to get outdated, we have discovered Amazon Kindle Fire , with its super sturdy case and ability to connect via Google Play and the Android system, as well as subscribe to FreeTime Unlimited for kids. 

Amazon Fire 7 tablet

IWEGGO Tablet 8 inch Tablet with Case

Tibuta Android Tablet

We talk more about Amazon Prime and why it can be a traveller’s best friend here.

Other favourite portable toddler toys:

• WaterWow books by Melissa & Doug
• Quiet Books
• Gel Stickers
• Triangle crayons

Jungle Animals Thick Gel Clings Winter Safari Window Gel

Triangular Crayons

My Busy Book Baby Soft Toy

For more travel toy ideas, pop on over to these detailed buying guides:

• Best travel toys for one-year-olds
• Best travel toys for two-year-olds
• Terrific toys to pack for a 3-year-old
• More toddler plane bag ideas
• Engaging road trip toys for toddlers
• Is it worth getting a travel tray for your toddler to play?
• A spare change of clothes
• Beach and water safety wear
• Wet bags for spares or dirty items
• Hand sanitiser
• Small detergent bottle for washing bottles and cups at your accommodation – don’t forget to check out our complete guide to travelling with bottles & sterilising here.
• A good first aid kit/medicine bag – you can see our complete family first aid packing guide here.

Germ-X Original Hand Sanitizer

ALVABABY 2pcs Cloth Diaper Wet Dry Bags Waterproof

First Aid Only 298 Piece All-Purpose First Aid Emergency Kit

Potty training stage?

We talk about potty training on the move in a lot more detail here , but for anything around toileting don’t forget:

• Wet Wipes! Not just for clean bums, you’ll want these little gems with you for YEARS! 
• Pull-ups, even if they are relatively newly trained, you will want to consider this fall back for long journeys
• Piddle pads for the seat , a great back up to prevent leakage

Wet Ones Travel Wipes

Toddler Pull Ups

Piddle Pad Car Seat Protector

Never forget a thing next time you’re packing by downloading our Family Travel Checklist   

Now we never said travelling with toddlers was light, right?  But it is still rewarding. With the right gear and right frame of mind, it really is a magical age to start opening children up to the world around them and creating wonderful happy memories.  

Further reading on the toddler years:

• That time we took 3 under 5 on a 16-hour flight
• Taking your toddler hiking; how to make it fun!
• Surviving a road trip with a toddler
• 5 travelling lessons my 3-year-old has taught me
• Our Best Toddler Travel Advice Home Page

Bookmark this page, share it with your friends or save it to Pinterest for later

Are your kids a little older?  See what gadgets we recommended for older families on the go , or pop back here if you’re still at the baby age and need our Ultimate Baby Travel Checklist

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links.  Purchasing any items listed on this page through an affiliate link will not affect how much you pay for the item but may earn us a small commission. Our  full disclosure policy  can be found here.

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2 thoughts on “ 20+ Toddler Travel Essentials for 2024 – With Packing List ”

Based on this guide, I need to carry the entire house with me on the plane or train. We travel a lot and each of us has only one backpack. Our toddler’s backpack goes in the stroller and has a bag of nappies, wipes, baby food, baby water, a toy or two, his clothes, home shoes, and essential meds and swimming gear if we plan to. That’s all and never had any trouble. Most taxis and car hires have toddler seats. Sometimes we take baby carrier. That said, our kid is a bit of adventurer. He wont use anything special if we don’t use it

That’s great you’ve learnt to travel light with your tot. It really depends on your style of travel and destination. Certainly, our needs have changed between kidsand we hope that by presenting a number of options, we can prepare first-time travelling parents with the information they need for different travel scenarios with toddlers – all these items we’ve needed at some point in our travels. Thanks for taking the time to stop by the blog and comment, happy travels 🙂

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The Ultimate List of Toddler Travel Essentials (+Toddler Packing List!)

This page may contain affiliate links, which means that we may earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

Traveling with a toddler is not the easiest of feats, but it can be made a lot easier by bringing a few toddler travel essentials. These are items that make traveling with a toddler go much more smoothly for everyone in your travel group.

On our many trips with our toddlers, we’ve come to learn that there are some items that we just can’t do without when traveling with young kids. And others that we can ditch to save the luggage space…

In this article, we’ve included detailed descriptions of the toddler travel essentials that you won’t want to forget on your trip. We’ve also provided a toddler travel packing list to make packing for your child that much easier! Read on for everything you need to bring for a successful trip with a toddler.

If you’re planning on visiting the beach, check out our article on the beach essential for toddlers .

Toddler Travel Essentials

Getting around

These are a few essential items that make getting around with your toddler a lot easier during travel.

• Toddler carrier

When traveling with a toddler, a carrier is at the top of my list of toddler travel essentials. 

Toddler carriers can make life so much easier when traveling. They allow you to easily take your child places that are less stroller friendly and provide a perfect place for nursing (if your child is breastfeeding) and napping on the go. They’re also great for containing toddlers in places that might not be safe for them to roam free (say at the top of a bell tower or the edge of the grand canyon).

We’ve carried our toddlers in carriers all over the world and find it to be one of the easiest ways to travel with a toddler.

To find the best carrier for your child, see this article on the best toddler carriers for travel .

A stroller may or may not be a necessity for your trip, depending on what kind of trip you’re taking. We’ve taken trips with just a toddler carrier and others with both a carrier and a stroller (I always bring a carrier, even if I’m bringing a stroller). 

Strollers can be very useful for navigating the airport with a toddler and for trips where you’ll be visiting stroller-accessible locations. They’re nice to have along to give you a break from having to carry your child all the time (or chase them down constantly).

We love our gb Pockit for travel. It’s the most compact strollers out there and folds down small enough to fit into the overhead bit or under your seat on the airplane. Be sure to see our full gb Pockit stroller review .

Travel car seat

A car seat is typically going to be one of your toddler travel essentials, barring a few locations where you can get by just using public transportation. But if you’re planning on getting around by car, you’ll want a car seat to keep your little one safe. Strapped in their car seat is also the safest way for toddlers to fly on a plane. 

Younger toddlers might still fit within the safety requirements for an infant car seat, which are great for travel. Infant car seats are lightweight and easy to transport. 

If your child has outgrown their infant seat, it’s worth it to invest in a lightweight travel car seat. Trust me, after you’ve spent your whole trip hauling that thing around you’ll be glad to have left your heavy, bulky regular seat at home. Our favorite travel car seat for toddlers is the Cosco Scenera next.

Car seat bag

If you’re bringing a car seat, you’ll want to bring a car seat travel bag. These bags make transporting your car seat much easier and more manageable. 

There are a lot of different options out there so check out our review of the best car seat travel bags to find the best one for your trip.

Food/Snacks

These food relate toddler travel essentials will make mealtimes and snacks with your toddler go a lot more smoothly while on your trip. 

A bib is a helpful way to keep your child cleaner while eating. As an added bonus, it keeps their clothes clean as well, which makes it more likely that you can pack light and reuse outfits. 

These waterproof bibs are lightweight and pack down to practically nothing. We also love these silicone bibs which take a bit more space but are easier to clean and dry more quickly.

Snack catcher 

Snacks are a great way to entertain a toddler while traveling. And a snack catcher allows them to feed themselves independently without making a huge mess. This can be a helpful tool for distracting and redirecting a child who is getting bored or on the verge of a meltdown.

Our favorite snack catcher for travel folds down compactly, making it easy to store when not in use. The material it’s made out of does tend to collect lint and crumbs, so I recommend bringing a baggie to store it in when you’re not using it.

• Travel high chair

A travel high chair can be a useful item for traveling with a toddler. It ensures that your child always has their own seat at the table and helps keep them contained so that they’re not climbing all over you or running around. This can make for a much more relaxing meal for yourself and your toddler. 

Travel high chairs are not always necessary if you’re going someplace where you know high chairs will be available. However if there aren’t high chairs, or if you’re not sure if there will be, bringing your own can be a nice way to ensure that mealtimes go smoothly.

• Water bottle

You’ll want to make sure your child is drinking a lot while traveling, so be sure to bring a water bottle and offer it to them frequently throughout the day.

We prefer the straw kind because they are easier for our toddler to use and less likely to spill.

• Disposable place mats

Feeding a toddler when you’re eating out can be tricky. The places you eat might not have toddler-safe dishes andd it can be a pain to have to feed your toddler bite by bite (plus in my experience toddlers often insist on feeding themselves!). 

That’s where these disposable place mats come in so handy. They have adhesive on all four sides to secure it to the table, providing a clean and stable surface for your toddler to eat on. Once they’re done eating, you can easily pull the place mat off of the table and throw it away. This helps to minimize mess and allows your child to have an independent eating experience without you having to stress about them breaking the dishes. 

Sleep Items

Some of the most important toddler travel essentials are those related to sleep. Whether or not your toddler sleeps well can make a huge difference to the success of your trip. A tired and grumpy toddler makes for a very long day while traveling. 

These sleep items are ones that can be hugely helpful in getting your toddler the sleep that they need. For everyone’s sake!

• White noise

We always bring white noise for our children while traveling. It helps block any ambient sounds that they might not be used to and also means that we don’t have to be quite so quiet as we’re moving around our hotel room or Airbnb. 

Oftentimes we’ll just use a white noise app on our phone, but if you want to be able to use your phone for other things, you can bring a travel white noise machine . 

While you’re away from home, you’ll want to make sure your toddler has a cozy and comfortable place to sleep. There are a couple of different ways you can do this. 

First, if your child sleeps in a crib you can see if your accommodations have a crib or pack ‘n play available for you to use while you’re there.

If you have a bed for your toddler, consider getting portable bed rails to keep your child from rolling off the bed in the night. These bed rails are placed underneath the bottom sheet to form a barrier at the edge of the bed. They provide a lot of peace of mind for when your toddler is sleeping in a full-sized bed. We’ve compiled a list of the best portable bed rails for travel with a toddlers to help you out. 

You can also choose to bring a portable toddler bed for your child so you can set up a cozy spot for them to sleep wherever you are. These can come in several different forms, from toddler cots to inflatable beds to pop-up tents. You can see our reviews of the best options for portable toddler beds if you need help picking a good one.

Whichever option you pick, make sure that your child knows what to expect and do your best to make sure it feels as safe and familiar as possible. 

Favorite stuffed animal

If your child has a special stuffed animal or blanket, make sure to bring it along to help them feel comfortable and safe during their sleep time. 

You could also bring along a favorite story or two as part of their bedtime routine. The key is to help it feel as much like the environment they’re used to as possible. 

A monitor may or may not be necessary, depending on your accommodations. If you’re all sleeping in the same room this may not be helpful as you’ll be able to easily hear if your child needs you. 

However, if you have a suite, an apartment, or a balcony, a monitor can give you a lot of peace of mind knowing that you can keep a close eye on your baby while in an unfamiliar place. 

You can see our recommendations for the best portable baby monitors to help your decision.

Blackout options

For many young children, keeping a dark sleep environment is necessary for a good night’s sleep. This can be especially true if you’re changing time zones and trying to adjust their sleep schedule. 

Many hotels will have blackout curtains in their rooms, however rentals or Airbnb’s often do not. We had a couple of really bad experiences with our children waking up extremely early in a new place due to light and since then I always bring a black out option for our toddlers. 

One way to create a dark environment is to bring travel blackout curtains . These curtains have suction cups that you can use to attach them to the window, darkening the whole room for sleep. 

Another great sleep aid is a SlumberPod (see our full SlumberPod review ) or SlumberPod alternative to create a dark sleep environment for your child. These products go around your child’s bed to block out light to help them sleep better and longer. The nice thing about this option is that it creates a private sleep area for you child, meaning you don’t have to be quite so quiet and careful about light if you’re sharing a room with your child. 

• Toddler airplane bed

If you’re flying with your toddler, another helpful sleep tool is a toddler airplane bed. These are products that can be used to extend the length of the seat and provide a comfortable place for your toddler to sleep on the plane. These can make a huge difference for international or long-haul flights where you’re traveling through your child’s normal bedtime.

There are few different kinds of airplane beds, and you can learn about the best options in our article on the best airplane beds for toddlers .

When you’re traveling with a toddler, there are a few health items that you want to make sure to always have on hand. 

Medications

If your child has any medications, be sure to bring enough for your trip plus a bit extra to account for unexpected delays. 

Also remember to pack your child’s medication in your carryon luggage so that you aren’t caught without it in case anything happens to your checked luggage.

• Thermometer

Traveling with a thermometer ensures that you can monitor a fever if your child happens to get sick. I never travel without one and have actually had to use it a surprising number of times while on trips. It provides a little extra peace of mind knowing that you have a way to assess the severity of a sickness.

You never know when a child might get sick and bringing along some pain medication can make any unexpected sickness a lot less miserable for your child. This is another one I’ve had to use several times when traveling and I’m always so glad that I have it on hand. 

Hand sanitizer/sanitizing wipes

Traveling with kids means exposing them to lots of germs, which can often lead to them getting sick. And toddlers are the worst at this, as they tend to touch everything and then stick their hands in their mouths. Bring along hand sanitizer so that you can sanitize their hands frequently, especially before they eat. 

Sanitizing wipes are also very helpful for wiping down surfaces such as the tray tables and arm rests on the airplane and tables at restaurants. 

No one wants a sick kid, especially when you’re far from home. While you can’t always prevent sickness, sanitizing often definitely increases your chances of keeping everyone healthy.

Toddler travel essential basics

Having awesome travel activities is an absolute necessity when traveling with a toddler. That doesn’t mean that you need a lot of activities, but you do want a few great options that can capture your child’s attention and that they will return to over and over. 

Over our years of traveling with toddlers we’ve found some great activities that our toddlers always love. You can get some ideas from our list of our favorite toddler activities for planes and our favorite toddler activities for road trips . 

Consider not only activities for the flight or drive, but also for your hotel room and when you’re out and about. 

When you’re traveling with a toddler, you’ll want a great diaper bag to carry all of your essential items. I highly recommend a backpack diaper bag for travel. They are typically much more comfortable, secure against theft, and easier to carry over long periods of time. 

Diapers and wipes

If your toddler isn’t potty trained, don’t forget to bring along diapers and wipes. You can choose to bring along enough for your whole trip or, if you want to pack lighter, you can pack enough for the first few days and plan on picking some up at your destination (make sure it’s a place where they’re easy to find).

When possible, I try to just bring along all the diapers and wipes I will need for my trip to save myself the hassle of needing to pick some up during the trip. However, I know people who would prefer to pack less up front, so do what makes the most sense to you. 

Be sure to bring more diapers than you think you will need in your diaper bag if you’re traveling by plane. The middle of a long flight is not the place where you want to realize that your child is going through more diapers than you anticipated. 

• Travel potty

For toddlers who are potty trained or in the process of potty training, a portable potty can be a lifesaver when traveling. 

There are a few different kinds, but one of the most useful for travel is a foldable seat that can be placed over a larger toilet to make a secure and smaller seat for your toddler. This allows toddlers to feel safer on a toilet and helps to prevent any potty training regressions while traveling. They’re also compact and can easily be folded up and carried in your diaper bag.

See our list of the best travel potties for toddlers for the best options out there. 

Clothes are obviously going to be a travel essential. We’ll highlight a few items in this section and you can find a more detailed list of clothes down in the packing list.

If you’re trying to pack light, bring outfits that can be mixed and matched.

Make sure that you’re packing weather appropriate clothes for your toddler (eg. sun hat, swimsuit, sunglasses vs winter coat, gloves, warm hat). 

Plan on bringing an extra pair of pajamas or two in case of nighttime accidents. It’s also a good idea to bring an extra pair of shoes in case you lose one or they get wet. 

Toddler travel packing list

This is our tried and tested toddler packing list that I use for every trip. I love being able to pack for a trip and know I’m not missing anything important as long as I double check my trusty list!

Packing tip: Spend a few minutes thinking about your toddler to determine if there are any toddler travel essentials that you should include that are specific to your child. For example, our oldest went through a phase where he couldn’t handle the smell of the toilet, so there was a period where we always carried a travel sized Poo-Pourri around with us. Our other two never had the same issue, so that wasn’t included in their packing lists. There might be items that your child needs that other people wouldn’t think to include.

• Car seat travel bag

Food/snacks

• Snack catcher

Sleep items

• Stuffed animal
• Monitor 
• Blackout option
• Hand sanitizer/wipes
• Travel activities
• Diapers/wipes or undies
• Toothbrush/paste
• Pants/shorts
• Jacket/Coat

Warm weather gear

• Swim diapers
• Floatie/life jacket

Cold weather gear

Final Thoughts

With a little preparation, traveling with a toddler can actually be a lot of fun. We’ve had great experiences traveling with our toddlers over the years (along with the occasional meltdown of course).

These toddler travel essentials will help your trip go a lot more smoothly. And you can rest assured knowing that you’ve done everything you can to set yourself up for success!

Other posts you might be interested in:

How to Get a Toddler to Sleep on the Plane (Tips that work!)

The Best Airplane Snacks for Toddlers

How to Have a Successful Road Trip with a Toddler

How to Fight Jet Lag in Babies and Toddlers

11 Helpful Tips for Hiking with a Toddler

Related Posts:

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The Best Gear for Traveling With Kids

If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. Learn more.

Best In-Car Entertainment Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Edition Read more

Best Headphones JLab Audio JBuddies Folding Headphones Read more

Best Travel Car Seat Wayb Pico Car Seat Read more

Best Car Seat Alert System Copilot Alert System Read more

Parenting involves more than a little magical thinking. If I go anywhere that parents gather, sooner or later a desperate mom or dad will ask me for the one thing that will make it easier to travel with a baby or small children. I can't make a 4-year-old avert a meltdown at an airport gate, or change a dirty diaper in a cramped airplane bathroom for you. But I can make a list of travel gear and gadgets I've found to be indispensable for the past four years while taking my kids on planes, trains, and road trips. If you need a tablet, compact stroller, or baby monitor, read on.

Be sure to check out our other guides on the best gift ideas for new parents , best baby monitors , best baby carriers , and our picks for a great travel mug .

Update December 2019: We added a few new picks and new product information.

Best In-Car Entertainment

Amazon's Fire HD 8 Kids Edition is the best children's tablet for the money. Amazon's FreeTime Unlimited platform restricts kid content by age, which means that you won't be constantly looking over their shoulders to see if they've found something unsavory on YouTube. FreeTime also includes Audible books, so a kid who has carsickness can listen and look out the window. It's small size makes it great for portability, and the tablet has a 3.5-mm headphone jack.

If your kid wants a bigger screen, the new Amazon Fire HD 10 is a great alternative, with slightly better performance and it's the first Amazon device with a USB-C charging port, making it convenient to juice up if you're already using a USB-C charger for your phone or laptop. Read our best Amazon Fire tablets guide for more options.

Best Headphones

Senior writer Lauren Goode pointed out that if you want to watch movies on a plane, you'll need headphones with a 3.5-mm headphone jack. And with kids, it might always be best to avoid more complicated wireless options. These corded, affordable JBuddies can easily switch between a tablet and a plane's screen. They have a built-in volume limiter and ear cushions to protect little ears and fit both my 2-year-old and 4-year-old.

Best Travel Car Seat

The best piece of kid travel gear I've tested in the past year is Wayb's Pico Car Seat . Children have to be in car seats until they fit a seatbelt properly , at 4 feet 9 inches or 80 pounds, but the manpower required to drag a 25-pound car seat on a trip is exhausting. The Pico weighs a mere 8 pounds and folds into a backpack. It's easy to carry, not only on planes but also while roaming a city and getting into different Lyfts and rental cars.

In November 2019, I did get an update stating customers that purchased Pico car seats with a model number ending in -001 sometimes reported a cracked head tube. It's not a safety issue, but Wayb is currently voluntarily replacing seats with that model number.

Best Car Seat Alert System

Tragically, parents sometimes accidentally leave their very young children buckled in closed, parked cars . It's hard to see a child in a rear-facing car seat, and it's far more likely to happen when you're tired, stressed, or there's a break in the routine, like traveling. Both car and car seat manufacturers are working on making visual and audio alerts standard practice, but in the meantime, this simple Bluetooth-enabled clip is simple, foolproof, and easy to install. Just replace the chest strap on your infant's car seat and attach the fob to your keychain. If you walk more than 10 feet away from a buckled clip, the fob alerts you.

Best Stroller

I've tried the Bugaboo Ant and other awesome lightweight folding strollers , but my favorite one is still Ergobaby's Compact Metro. It folds down to a mere 21 inches tall and has a handle to carry it like a suitcase. It has an easy one-handed opening mechanism, a silky, expansive fabric canopy, and it goes into a full recline for toddlers that need to take a relaxing nap while touring a museum. It's also slim enough to walk through the turnstiles at metro stations in cities like Washington, D.C.

Best Baby Monitor

At the end of a long day of traveling, the last thing you want to do is fiddle with a Wi-Fi-enabled baby monitor and figure out how to prop it up on a bedside table. Eufy's SpaceView monitor is compact and can stand independently. It has a ridiculous 330-degree horizontal and 110-degree vertical rotation, so I can put it almost anywhere in a room. It's not Wi-Fi-enabled, so I don't have to spend endless minutes waiting to connect it. Read our baby monitor guide for more options.

Best Streaming Device for Travel

Children must learn to be adaptable and flexible. But not in the 10 minutes before bedtime, when they're tired, cranky, and just want 10 minutes of Paw Patrol to wind down before passing out. Google's Chromecast Ultra lets you "cast" videos from your phone to any TV. It's easy to use, supports 4K resolution, and has an Ethernet port in case the Internet is wonky. It also works with Disney+ (wait, you don't have Disney+ yet? Go get it. We'll wait here).

Best Kid Tracking Device

I have mixed feelings about tracking my kids , but I've never been as terrified as the moment I lost sight of my preschooler at a neighborhood parade. The Jiobit is as small as an Oreo and easy to attach to my kid's clothes with a hair tie. It's rated IPX8 for waterproofing—you can swim with it—and uses a combination of Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, cellular data, and GPS satellites to track your kid almost anywhere on earth. Watching my kid run around in its live-tracking mode was like having a real Marauder's Map on my phone.

I've also tried the Monkey Kid sensor and the Relay , but the Jiobit is still my favorite.

Best Cheap Toy

Even if you're fully prepared with familiar toys and snacks, a tiny surprise will often delight and distract smaller children. These adorable, tiny erasers are affordable and are a surprise hit in my house. You can also get food or truck sets . Package them up individually and whip them out when you see that telltale downward mouth turn that signals an impending tantrum.

Best Travel Bag

The Yeti Camino Carryall won't work as a travel bag on a plane. It won't fit under a seat and the top doesn't zip shut. But if you're taking a road trip for the weekend, it easily transitions from diaper bag to beach bag to grocery bag. If your toddler squishes an entire carton of berries at the bottom, just tip it over, rinse it out with a hose, and dry it with a towel. Once, I lost track of it for a few hours. I complained to a friend that it felt like I'd lost my arm.

Best Snack Box

Small children are powerless beings, so when they find a way to exert control, they do so with relish. The specific way that my children have chosen to torment me is by eating only very tiny portions of lots of different things. I could buy lots of prepackaged snacks for traveling, but it's easier to reduce waste by filling this durable, leakproof bento with six blueberries, two graham crackers, and so on. It also comes in a mini version .

Best Water Bottle

I've tried dozens of BPA-free kid water bottles, with different types of lids and drink tops, and this is the only one that can be tossed in a bag without leaking all over. Both of my kids have had the same bottle since they were old enough to drink from a straw. My two-year-old can easily carry it with the top's loop, and he can fold the straw's lid closed himself to prevent spills. It also has double-walled vacuum insulation to keep milk cold during a four-hour flight, and it's steel, so it doesn't break or dent when dropped (or thrown).

Best Clean-Up Kit

Name one parent who doesn't have easy access to five packets of wet wipes at any given second. I'll wait here while you think. My son has eczema, and Water Wipes have been approved by Allergy UK and the French Association for the Prevention of Allergies, as well as the National Eczema Association here in the US. They're moist and durable enough to scrub at car seats and clothes, as well as faces and hands.

A Useful Tool

As a mom, I find light, sturdy carabiners to be almost as useful as hair ties or wet wipes. You can clip a small pouch to the back of your seat pocket so that you're not constantly reaching under the seat for your bag. You can hang your backpack off the floor in a filthy restroom. If your kid is in a travel harness with a leash, you can clip them to your belt! You can clip a tiny Bluetooth speaker to their car seat to listen to story podcasts or a meditation on Insight Timer to put them to sleep! And because climbers carry dozens of these at a time, each one weighs about an ounce. Carry several.

Best Travel Outfit for Mom

My friends have dubbed this, the "momper." Patagonia's insanely comfortable romper is made from stretchy, light, and durable recycled polyester and Spandex. It has also been treated with durable water repellent (DWR) so goopy messes can be wiped right off, and the crossover straps are easy to peel off to use the bathroom. In addition to two capacious front pockets, it also has a concealed zip pocket for keys or lip balm. I've worn it while hiking, biking, and skateboarding, so sprinting after two toddlers is a breeze.

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Flying with a Baby and Toddler: The Baby Travel Gear You Need For a Smooth Landing

You want to minimize turbulence. Here's how.

If given a choice between spending an afternoon at the DMV or engaging in that sweaty, full-contact sport known as baby travel, any sane parent would choose the former. That’s because flying with babies and toddlers is akin to U.S. Marine Corps boot camp, albeit more intense. It also requires the same amount of gear, some of which is essential and some of which is optional but makes life easier, from travel toys, pillows, and trays to airplane beds and baby headphones.

Traveling with kids will inevitably involve a few spills, meltdowns, and glares from strangers. These will likely be out of your control. But we also guarantee that with a few things on this list, you will experience fewer, they will be shorter, and you will have a much better experience.

Of course, there are a few basics: Arrive at the airport early, pack enough snacks to avoid any pre-boarding temper tantrums, and bring a select amount of toys to keep them occupied during the flight. Have kids chew on something during takeoff so their ears don’t pop, consider noise-canceling headphones if they rely on silence or white noise to fall asleep, and ditch any guilt about screen time. If all else fails, know that when traveling with kids, it really is about the destination, not the journey. So focus on the future, because we guarantee that no one enjoys the present during baby travel.

Every product on Fatherly is independently selected by our editors, writers, and experts. If you click a link on our site and buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Best Baby Travel Gear

Store the aforementioned diapers, along with wipes, pacifiers, hand sanitizer, and every other baby item you need to quickly access in this hanging dopp kit, which can go to the plane bathroom with you.

A must for longer flights when bags of snacks won't cut it: These handsome silicone plates and cups suction on to the tray table, so kids can eat without making (too much of) a major mess. Plus, it'll keep them busy, because getting steamed baby carrots from plate to mouth is hard work.

The Best Airplane Car Seats

You’re going to want to cuddle your baby in your arms. Just don’t. Because if your plane encounters turbulence, your kid can go flying. Thus, you need a car seat. Make sure it’s FAA-approved, and has a label that reads “This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft.”

At just eight, yes eight, pounds, this is a pretty dope travel car seat that's also passed FAA muster. It has an aerospace-grade aluminum frame, breathable pads, can be installed with the plane's seatbelt, and when done, it turns into a backpack. It's only for older kids: 22 to 50 pounds.

The Best Kids Travel Trays

The Best Travel Toys

This article was originally published on March 22, 2018

• WORK WITH US
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Travelling with kids is as easy as a walk in the park. Said no parent ever. Nevertheless, we shall never lose hope. Armed with the right kids travel gear and genius travel items for kids – you just might survive the adventure and regain your sanity at the same time.

Okay, you can’t deny that we’re lucky as hell to be parents in an era of digital entertainment (ahem, Netflix)and, well, the convenience of online shopping. I mean, think of all the accessories and nifty travel gadgets our parents didn’t have the luxury of having back in the day where they used to take us traveling. Poor folks had to endure us wild kids for an entire long haul flight with shabby in-flight entertainment, no smartphones, tablets or fun kids’ travel toys . Just 100% raw kids. Respect to our parents.

Or, perhaps, unbeknownst to us, our loving folks quietly slipped some Phenergan into our airplane food and knocked us out until we reached our destination. If it’s any consolation, I’m pretty certain we are the lucky ones. In-flight entertainment is so impressive in this day and age that I’m willing to forgo sleep to prevent myself from getting a serious case of FOMO, onboard WiFI is almost a standard and airplane beds for kids provide our tiny human counterparts with the luxury of lying down flat as if they were in business class.

What could possibly make your travels with kids  even smoother? Perhaps this list of kids travel gear and baby travel items will be the icing on the cake.

For more hacks & tips on travelling with kids, see below:

• 10 Genius Travel Toys For Toddlers  
• 7 Airplane Beds for Babies, Toddlers & Kids
• 28 Items for your Family Beach Vacation (Plus FREE Packing List)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tina ft. 2 boys & 1 man child (@hangrybynature) on Jul 24, 2019 at 1:53pm PDT

JetKids Bed Box by Stokke

“It’s a bed. It’s a suitcase. It’s a miracle.” You know what would be an even better miracle? A ride-on roller suitcase for adults that opens into a king sized bed. That, or a free upgrade to business class. Nahmean?

Suffice to say, the Jet Kids BedBox is a brilliant invention, for kids. I remember traveling as a kid with my head cradled in my parents’ laps, and my legs somewhere between the surface of the seat and up in the air. My poor parents who sat stiff on 20+ hour flights from Germany to Australia. Sorry, Mum and Dad. I love you – you know it.

Multi-functionality is the spice of life, which is exactly what the BedBox delivers. It’s the Queen B in the realm of kids’ travel gear. Functioning as a ride-on suitcase to zip through terminals, a place to store their toys and as an airplane toddler bed – this piece of genius is one of the ultimate travel gadgets for kids.

The Bed Box comes equipped with a mattress, swivel front wheels, and supports up to 35kg weight – making it suitable for kids up to 7 years of age.

Get the JetKids BedBox

For more ideas on how to keep little ones settled on flights, take a look at these clever travel products or tips on how to fly with a toddler .

Tula Baby & Toddler Carrier

The first thing I pack for any trip – near or far – is our trusty Tula baby carrier . City trip, mountain hiking or beach bumming – this is our favourite piece of baby travel gear that we couldn’t live without.

Tula carriers feature well-padded shoulder straps (without being too bulky) and wide padded waistbands that help evenly distribute weight, keeping you going on your travels for hours on end. Plus, they have some pretty  dope prints that’ll earn you all the cool points as a parent.

We also own the mesh version of the carrier, which is perfectly suited for trips to hot and humid destinations making it more breathable for your baby without sweating up a storm.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tina ft. 2 boys & 1 man child (@hangrybynature) on May 19, 2019 at 2:11pm PDT

YOU MIGHT LIKE: 10 Awesome Toddler Travel Toys

Portable High Chair 

I can honestly come up with a handful of reasons outside of camping or travelling when a portable high chair would’ve come in handy. Like when a hipster café is too hipster to have high chairs or when you’re in parts of Asia and some of the top-rated eateries are equivalent to the size of your bathroom.

This  Pop & Sit Portable Booster is super compact once folded, allowing it to fit in your luggage and transport it anywhere from campfire outings to exotic hotel rooms.

Baby Hiking Backpack

The Deuter Kid Comfort 1 baby hiking back certainly isn’t as compact as standard carriers considering it is for serious trekking enthusiasts. If you’re after the best baby carrier for your next camping trip, or if you want to be the first to climb Everest with your child (not advised), then this is your guy.

A standard baby carrier or wrap might cut it for a little while, but they’re not designed for serious hikes or treks. I mean, I love my Tula baby carrier and all, but you won’t catch me climbing a mountain with it.

Psst.. New to Airbnb? Get $40 travel credit when you book your first stay!

GB Pockit Stroller

An umbrella stroller that folds into the size of a backpack? Shuddup and take my monies.

Forget fancy dancy McLaren lightweight strollers or Bugaboos, the GB Pockit Stroller is the best travel stroller if you detest all things bulky and heavy. Folding down to a ridiculously compact size, it’s small enough to pass as carry-on and even fits in the stowaway space beneath the chair or overhead storage compartment.

Weighing in at 4.3kg (9.5 pounds), it’s a wee bit heavier than a newborn baby, yet still maintains a large enough seat for your kid to sit comfortably on.

Portable Toddler Travel Bed

Let’s face it, a portable cot is sometimes too bulky to take on your vacation on top of all the other kids travel gear you’re forced to haul around for them. Meet this ultra portable toddler travel bed . Far lighter and easier to pack than a cot – the only downside is having to inflate it. But that’s what Dads are for, right?

It’s the perfect bed for sleepovers and travel, the  best feature of it being its squeak-free material and design because, let’s face it, that’s what puts us all off inflatable mattresses, right? The mattress comes with a small electric pump that inflates it in under 30 seconds.

RELATED: Top 7 Toddler Sleep Beds for Airplanes

Portable Kids’ Bunk Bed

Yes, these contraptions actually exist. Who would’ve known that bunk beds can be made portable and travel-friendly? Queue *jaw drop*. The only thing you’ll have to deal with on your travels is… who will get to sleep on top?

The Disc-O-Bed Kid-O-Bunk converts to a bunk, sitting bench, or even two single beds. Pretty nifty, huh? Oh, and each bed can hold up to 90kg (200 pounds) in weight, meaning that mum and dad may just end up on these while the kids take over the King in the hotel room.

A Diaper Bag That Will Earn You Cool Points

‘Diaper bag’ and ‘cool’ don’t usually fit into the same sentence, but with the HapTim Diaper Travel Backpack , you might just be the coolest mum on the block. It has all the functionalities that you would expect out of a standard diaper bag, except it looks like a super hip Herschel backpack.

Featuring 3 independent compartments with a detachable divider to store clothes, diapers, drinks, snacks, and even pockets for your smartphone, iPad and wallet – this truly is the all-in-one to make your transformation to ‘cool mum’ complete.

On the plus side, the backpack still straps onto the pram securely, and the chances of convincing your hubby to wear it are exponentially higher. Cos hubbies just wanna be cool too.

RELATED: 28 Must-Haves for your Family Beach Vacation

Ride-On Carry-On Suitcase

This is the be-all and end-all solution for when you need to get from A to B stat, but your kid is not complying because they obviously do not see the urgency of the situation, like a final boarding call.

Strap ’em in the revolutionary Mountain Buggy Bagrider , get rollin’, and get to your gate. Unstrap. Boom. Too easy. No tears, no fuss, no yelling.

The Bagrider transforms from standard carry on luggage to toddler tower with a simple twist of a button, and holds up to 15kg (33lbs) in weight. The child seat comes equipped with a cushioned seat liner and 5-point safety harness, so you can tow, swing or swivel with a peace of mind. Just don’t go too crazy.

Alternatively, you could always snag yourself the Lojel Cubo carry on luggage , which we used as a diaper bag, laptop carrier, and toddler seat. It worked for us on 10 flights through 7 countries.

SEE MORE: 21 Accessories to Pack for International Travel

Kids’ Luggage Scooter

Sometimes, well, most of the time – kids just wanna have fun. What better way to positively reinforce “hurry the flippin’ hell up – we need to get to the gate” than to provide the little ones with a fun incentive to actually get to places on time.

That’s where the ZincFlyte Luggage Scooter comes into play – I mean, genius, right? A carry-on suitcase and scooter combined into one fun-packed rolling contraption.

With 25L capacity, there’s plenty of room for all their toys, books and devices, and best of all – it’s cabin sized. So, they can have all the fun scootin’ around right from check-in through to the gate.

WATCH: Essential Kids Travel Gear in Action

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How do we survive travelling with kids? Check out our list of packing essentials that we take with us on every trip.

Don’t forget to come say “HEY!” on YouTube or Instagram . I like to think we’re funny, entertaining and resourceful. You be the judge.

Got more genius kids’ travel products you want to share?

Drop them in the comments below.

• Travel Essentials & Gear

28 Essentials For Your Family Beach Vacation Packing List

• Baby + Toddler Tips

The Best 3-in-1 Toddler Airplane Bed: JetKids Bed Box Review

These are all pretty spot-on. About to take our 3 year old on her first real vacation. Definitely going to take some cues from this article. That Bed-Box is amazing! I’ll let you know how it goes.

I know, right? I was going to order one for our long haul trip to Europe but realised it wouldn’t arrive in time. Keep us updated on your first vacation with your 3-year old. Where are you headed?

I just wrote a post about traveling with kids as well so I thought I would read yours through Blogging Boost Facebook Group. Great tips!

• Pingback: Cayman Island with Kids: A Complete Guide to Activities

I and my wife are very fond of traveling. We are blessed with a baby girl 5 months back. Going out with an adult and with five months old toddler has a huge difference. So, before making all the arrangements I Google some blogs and landed on your blog. You have solved my problem with such great travel gear items for kids. One of my friends has recommended me to buy travel accessories for kids from Kid Nomad Travel. They have a huge variety of products for the same purpose.

Travelling with a baby is really taught for parents specially for mom. Travel gear make travelling easy and comfortable for mom. I have a 1 years old boy. I face the problem when i am travelling with my little one. I am trying to buy stroller and carrier for my baby. Thanks for sharing best travel gear to choose best one for my baby. Really helpful guideline.

No worries! Glad this could be of help for you 🙂

The article really nailed it! Ive never heard of the bed box, looking forward to trying it out now. Looks like it eliminates the need for a nice kids sized travel pillow.

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9 best travel toys that’ll keep kids entertained no matter the journey

Wave goodbye to backseat boredom with these child-approved toys and games for your little ones, article bookmarked.

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While family holidays are a great opportunity to create new memories together, the journey to your sunny destination can be stressful, sending even the most laidback parents into a spin.

Much like any daunting task – particularly where children are involved – preparation is key, and if games of eye-spy and singalong songs aren’t silencing the inevitable cries of “are we there yet?”, it could be time to pick up a reliable travel toy.

Whether you’re travelling by train, plane or automobile, the best travel toys are compact and easily packed away without faffing to find missing pieces. You want options that are quiet, so not to bother other travellers or you and something they can play with independently or in harmony with a sibling (one can dream, hey).

Although screen time may be the obvious answer, we tried to steer clear of typical technology in the hunt for simpler options, and gave bonus points to those that managed to be educational too.

No matter where or how you’re planning to venture with the kids this summer, these are our favourite travel toys to keep tantrums at bay.

18 best gifts and toys for three-year-old girls and boys

15 best car seats, tried and tested to keep your child safe, secure and comfortable

8 best family board games for hours of fun, from cult classics to new releases

6 best kids’ backpacks for school that really make the grade

10 best trainers for kids 2023: Sporty and comfortable styles for boys and girls

How we tested

Our four- and six-year-old testers tried out an array of travel toys on long car journeys and trips on the train. We also gave them a thorough testing when out and about, including when we were grabbing lunch, during downtime on the beach or enjoying picnics in the park. However, it’s safe to say for the favourites toys, the playing continued at home too.

The best kids’ travel toys for 2023 are:

• Best overall – Janod dinosaurs magneti’book: £18, Kidly.co.uk
• Best value for money – Fiesta crafts airport stickabouts: £5.95, Dottyhippo.co.uk
• Best for portability – Spirograph the original travel set: £10.99, Amazon.co.uk
• Best for learning a new skill – Galt travel learn to draw set: £15.99, Booghe.co.uk
• Best for older kids – Nexcube 3x3 classic: £8, Smythstoys.com

Janod dinosaurs magneti’book

• Best : Overall
• Type : Magnetic book

It looks like a book, but it’s so much more. From traditional toymaker Janod, the portable magneti’books are boredom busters for three- to eight-year-olds, and they can fit in most handbags. There’s over 15 themes to choose from, but we tested the dinosaurs version, much to our mini testers’ pleasure.

Kids of all ages are fascinated by the magic of magnets, and this rather sturdy box is filled with 40 magnetic cardboard pieces to play with. The magnetic board features a tropical Jurassic scene, which our testers loved attaching their magnetic dinosaurs to while adding their own sound effects along the way and comically mixing and matching body parts.

We were also super impressed with the quality of the materials and the fact that it’s wipe-clean. It encourages imagination and is great for siblings playing together on the go.

Fiesta crafts airport stickabouts

• Best : Value for money
• Type : Stickers

We’ve all been there battling the stickers that get stuck to our children’s fingers or everywhere other than the sticker book… here’s where Stickabouts steps in. Reusable, washable and glue-free, Stickabouts stick to any flat surface, including aeroplane seats and train tables, but fortunately, our mini testers were more interested in filling the airport scene with the 42 pieces.

Perfect for airport delays or long journeys, the set is recommended for three to seven years and is a purse-friendly, portable and pleasurable option. Our testers even used the stickers in the bath at the hotel.

Playfoam Go! squishy sandcastle

• Best : For sensory play
• Type : Interactive toy

If you’ve yet to discover the wonders of Playfoam, with that long journey ahead, now’s the time. Playfoam is the squishy, squashy, sculpting toy that offers sensory and creative play by the bucket load, or in this case, by the sandcastle load. Because Playfoam only sticks to itself and never dries out, it’s great for on-the-go fun.

It comes in a portable case with a handle and is ready to use from the offset with built-in shell moulds to sculpt and squish the Playfoam into seashell shapes. However, our six-year-old tester’s favourite bit was squashing the perfectly formed shapes and starting all over again.

Kudos to those who can encourage players to keep the colours separate. Lightweight, no mess and self-contained, plus you’ll get five animal friends, Playfoam Go! Squishy Sandcastle is a fun on-the-go toy.

Spirograph the original travel set

• Best : For portability
• Type : Drawing

The humble Spirograph filled us with all the nostalgic feels, and this travel set has nailed on-the-go creativity. The Spirograph studio has a built-in design ring, work surface and storage compartment for holding all the implements: six wheels, two pens, a 2-page pad, a design guide and, of course, any finished artwork. It was too advanced for our four-year-old, but our six-year-old tester – with a bit of adult help – loved seeing her different designs take shape.

Bigjigs toys holiday kit

• Best : For holiday role-play
• Type : Interactive toys

This nine-piece set from BigJigs is holiday vibes in a case and sure to get any jet-setter excited about an upcoming trip. Our four- and six-year-old testers loved discovering what was inside this pretend travel suitcase.

There are wooden role play toys such as sun tan lotion with a fun working pump, a pretend camera, a comb, toothbrush and toothpaste and some play spending money. Our testers saved the postcards to send while on holiday and enjoyed playing “holidays” with the passport and map. You’ll also get a handy red cap, stickers – which never fail to entertain – and four colouring pencils.

This set is perfect for drumming excitement but also when on the move. The testers temporarily argued over who got to carry the case, but we also managed to fit a few more, colouring books and small toys in too.

Galt travel learn to draw set

• Best : For learning a new skill

Time on your hands? Fill the void and learn a skill with this activity set from Galt. It is designed for on-the-go-drawing, and budding artists aged four+ can learn to draw in three easy steps using the 10 step-by-step drawings. Simply slide through the three discs that start with the drawing’s outline and progress through to the finishing touches using the pen provided (which handily slots in the back of the board).

The pen is a child-friendly size, and the eraser on the end means each drawing can simply be wiped off when your little ones are ready to move on to their next masterpiece. This toy is brilliantly portable and great for car or train journeys. It kept both our testers entertained and stimulated – sharing, however, was questionable.

Tonies starter set

• Best : For story lovers
• Type : Audiobook

If you’re trying to steer your young ones away from screen time this holiday, we believe we’ve found the answer with Tonies. The device is a child-friendly audio player that is geared towards independent play for children as young as three years old – just the ticket for a long journey.

While it’s not specifically designed to be a travel toy, add a set of foldable headphones (£24.99, Tonies.com ), and you’ll hear no mutterings of “Are we nearly there yet?” or “I’m bored.” It’s worth bearing in mind, though, that you will need to connect to wifi initially, but once you’ve placed on the Tonie, the story is downloaded.

Encouraging a love of audio learning and reading, our little testers enjoyed adjusting the volume using the rubber ears and swapping stories by placing the Tonie figurines on top of the cube. There’s a vast offering of stories to choose from, including the hugely popular Peppa Pig and The Gruffalo , and even Disney classics, but at £14.99 a pop, we’d suggest going for their favourite character.

In the starter set you’ll get a Toniebox, a Creative-Tonie, which has 90 minutes of space for you to upload online audiobooks, music or even recordings of your own stories and messages, and a charging dock. We can’t deny it’s a considered purchase, but can you put a price on a peaceful journey? Plus, it’ll be your child’s companion way beyond the end of the holiday.

Aquabeads deluxe carry case

• Best : For craft lovers
• Type : Crafts

If you have a child that’s pleaded with you to take their Aquabeads on holiday, your prayers have been answered. The newly released Aquabeads Deluxe Carry Case allows creative play to continue wherever on the horizon. New to the phenomenon, our six-year-old tester’s eyes lit up when she saw this – quite possibly due to the shiny buckle – but the excitement continued as she opened the case.

The portable carry case comes with more than 1,400 solid, star and jewel beads in 4 colours. There’s a built-in tray to make creations on the move and a double-sided Aquabeads pen for execution – we found this worked well on a train table where there’s a little more room. If you’re familiar with the craze, you’ll know water is required to stick the creations together.

There’s a spray water bottle provided, but you’ll need to fill it up, and it’s worth remembering that creations take an hour to dry. It’s certainly something craftspeople will enjoy beyond the journey, and the carry case design makes it transportable, even if you do require a still space for smooth work.

Nexcube 3x3 classic

• Best : For older kids
• Type : Puzzle

A fidget toy is the ultimate distraction, just what kids need on tedious journeys. You’ve probably heard of a Rubik’s cube, but let us introduce Nexcube, the world record-setting speedcube. They may look similar, but we found this brand less abrasive on the hands, and the movement has been ergonomically designed with a unique mechanism for smooth turns.

While our testers were below the recommended age for the Nexcube (eight years plus), they did enjoy twisting and turning it, and it’s a toy that’ll undoubtedly hold the attention of slightly older kids and, dare we say it, adults too!

The verdict: Kids’ travel toys

We love the portably playing possibilities that the Janod Magneti’books provide. We found it fun, suitably silly, great for siblings and affordable. Plus, there’s a great selection of themes to choose from to suit different interests.

From Star Wars to Harry Potter, we’ve found the best kids’ Lego sets

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Best Kids Travel Accessories 2024 Guide

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Home » Best Kids Travel Accessories 2024 Guide

Are you looking for the best travel accessories for kids? The type of accessories will make that family trip easier? The type of gear will help your child be comfortable in transit?

We have traveled extensively with our three children. We have experience traveling with a baby, a toddler, a preschooler, a grade schooler, and a teenager!

Yep, we have tackled all the stages!

So to help out other parents, we have compiled a list of products that we found to be truly helpful.

Now the children’s travel accessories on this list here are aimed at pre-schoolers (3-5), grade-schoolers (5-12), and teenagers (12+).

If you have a baby, I highly recommend that you hop over to our baby travel gear guide, and for those with toddlers, you will love our best travel gear for toddlers guide and the best plane toys for toddlers .

But let’s get on with what you all came here to find. Here is our favorite list of all the best kids’ travel accessories and gear that we have handpicked.

Tip:  Check out our new travel journal for kids here .

Best Kids Travel Accessories for Planes and Cars

Without further ado, let’s get straight to the best travel gear for kids.

We will start with the most important items – the essentials for the planes and the cars!

1. BubbleBum Inflatable Booster Car Seat

What better way to start this comprehensive list than, in our opinion, the best inflatable booster car seat for your kid!

BubbleBum offers this fantastic product in three color options – Pink Chevron, Irish Shamrocks, and Black.

It works best for kids of 4 to 11 years of age and weighing between 40 and 100 pounds. (You can find a whole range of other travel booster car seats here.)

The booster seat is narrow, lightweight and foldable! Which makes it perfect for travel.

We find that the booster seat is perfect to help our little one be comfier in the car, train and planes. You can also use it on the dining room table to help lift them up where needed too. 

Important to note that the booster seat is NOT FAA approved, so you will need to stow it on take-off and landing in the plane. 

The BubbleBum booster car seat meets and exceeds US and EU safety regulations – it has been crash-tested when inflated as well as deflated.

It contains more memory foam than air, which allows it to maintain structural integrity and stability during a crash.

>>> YES! This seat will be super helpful – Buy it now!

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2. Kids Travel Pillow & Blanket Set or Kids Travel Neck Pillow ( depending on age )

According to the age of your kid, you can choose either of the following two travel accessories.

Roamwild offers ‘Tux’ Armrest Buddy, which is a set of a pillow and blanket. Its unique design allows you to transform any armrest into a pillow for your kid, making it an excellent travel accessory.

It doubles as an exciting penguin toy and packs up really well. It is best suited for kids up to 3 years of age.

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

You can get the Travel Neck Pillow from BUYUE Kids Travel Pillow for slightly older kids, aged 3 to 10 years.

It is available in various colors so you can choose a color for each child. Your child can use it during flights and road trips to ensure uninterrupted, deep sleep.

3. SSAWcasa Seat Belt Pillow for Kids

If you are traveling with your child in a car, you should consider getting the Seat Belt Pillow offered by SSAWcasa.

With this fantastic accessory at your disposal, your child will be so much more comfortable in the car – it also helps stop the seat belt from cutting into the neck as well!

It is filled with PP cotton and has a soft suede cover, which makes it extremely comfortable. We especially liked how easy it is to remove and wash.

>>> YES! This is fabulous – Buy it Now!

4. Sunany Inflatable Foot Rest Pillow for Kids (for Younger Kids)

The next recommended accessory on this list is slightly different from the other travel pillows, in the sense that it is an inflatable footrest.

For those of you who will be traveling on an airplane with a young child, these pillows are absolutely invaluable! Once inflated, you place it in the leg space in front of your child and it creates a little bed for them.

It has been a gamechanger for us as it means that our daughter can sleep comfortably in her own space, rather than all over me (which means that I can get more sleep too).

It is made from high-quality PVC. Important to note that it is not FAA approved, so you can only use it once you are up in the air.

You might also find that some air hostesses might ask you to pop it away (but we mostly get away with it so definitely worth trying).

>>> YES! This is brilliant – Buy it Now!

5. Helteko Car Backseat Organizer

Helteko offers a pack of two car backseat organizers. Each of these organizers can hold a touch screen tablet, water bottles, as well as various other kids’ toys, books, and other objects. Each organizer has a three-compartment mesh bag.

It measures 25 inches by 19 inches, which is large enough to cover the back of most standard front seats. You will appreciate how easy it is to attach these to your vehicle’s front seats.

>>> YES! This is really handy – Buy it Now!

Best Travel Accessories for Kids [Sleeping-Related Products]

Next up we have some brilliant products for those of you who still have young kids. These two products help to create a more comfy sleeping environment for little sleepers.

6. AmazonBasics Portable Window Blackout Blind Shades

Some of us (including our kids) are light sleepers. We need a quiet, dark room in order for our brains to shut down for sleep. But often hotels or Airbnb just have pretty useless curtains that wake you up at the break of dawn.

These AmazonBasics Portable Window Blackout Blind Shades is fabulous for those type of kids. It is lightweight and easy to pack.

It has velcro edges and suction cups that allow you to stick it onto any window. It has been made to fit various window sizes.

Made from 100% polyester, it can effectively block out harmful UV rays and sunlight. Such a fabulous product!

>>> YES! This is will help my child sleep better – Buy it Now!

7. The HiccaPop Toddler Travel Bed (for Younger Kids)

When it comes to kids travel gear for young kids, this Toddler Travel Bed from HiccaPop is a must-have. It can fit all standard sheets of crib size and does not have any squeaky noises.

The sheet neatly tucks into the inner mattress and its guard rails to ensure that your kid does not roll out of it while asleep. It comes with a lifetime warranty as well, so you need not worry about quality issues.

It is fabulous for when you don’t want to pay the extra $$$ for a bigger hotel room. It is also great for kids who feel more secure in strange places when they sleep close to their parents.

It can also be beneficial if they know it is ‘their’ bed that goes from one place to the next – it creates more comfort and security in comparison to adjusting to new beds all the time.

>>> YES! This is really handy for my child – Buy it Now!

Kids Travel Products to Help Keep Your Child Safe

Safety is one of the main concerns when it comes to traveling with kids. So it only makes good sense that we talk about which products we have used to help keep our kids safe during trips.

8. Jolik Child Motorcycle Safety Harness

Do not let the name of this product fool you. While it is called a motorcycle safety harness, it can also be used as a walking helper, baby feeding seat belt, airplane harness, and others. It is a really handy product to have!

It can be used for kids aged 2 to 12 years and weighing no more than 99 pounds. It comes with a 1-year money-back guarantee. We especially liked the reflective patch on it to ensure the child’s safety at night.

Fabulous for scooter-heavy destinations such as Thailand, Bali, Vietnam etc.

9. Limmys Premium Neoprene Swim Vest

Limmys offers their Premium Swim Vest for kids in many vibrant color options. You will appreciate the full front zipper and the safety strap with buckle.

The Limmys vest holds 8 removable floats, so this can be tailored to the child’s swimming ability.

We recommend the medium size for kids aged 2 to 5 years with a chest size of up to 58cm. Or the large size for kids aged 5 to 9 years with a chest size of up to 63cm.

Absolutely essential for the beach or pool-style holidays.

>>> YES! My child needs this – Buy it Now!

10. ALEADER Kids’ Slip-on Quick-Dry Water Shoes

Heading to a destination where the beaches are covered in rocks or coral? To help keep your child’s feet safe, you should get a pair of slip-on, quick-dry water shoes.

It is available in 16 vibrant colors. With a synthetic sole having holes and an open upper mesh, it drains water quickly and provides excellent traction on wet and slippery surfaces.

Not exactly what you are after? Try our guide on the best water shoes for kids to find some other options.

>>> YES! This will be handy for our next beach holiday – Buy it Now!

11. Kina ID Safety Wristbands

One of the biggest reasons for young parents not wanting to travel with toddlers is safety. Kina offers safety wristbands for kids in three variants – a set of six bands for boys, a set of six bands for girls, and a set of 12 bands.

You can write important contact information on this reusable band to ensure your child’s safety. Such a fabulous idea for when you visit crowded attractions or even when you visit a theme park!

>>> YES! This will help ease my fear about safety – Buy it Now!

Kids Travel Luggage and Organisation Options

Next, we want to look at luggage. Luggage is important and it changes with age. We find that when it comes to carry-on bags, the combination of a backpack/luggage on wheels is best for young kids, whilst a backpack-style bag is perfect for older kids.

Luggage that is fun and fits with the child’s interests can really add to the whole excitement level of the whole trip, so I suggest it is worth the few extra dollars to get a ‘cool’ bag.

12. MyGreen Lightweight Canvas Backpack ( Older Kids ) or Yodo Zoo Kids Rolling Luggage ( Younger Kids )

Kids get a great sense of freedom and responsibility when they get their backpacks. For older kids, we recommend the canvas backpack that comes in 15 different styles.

>>> YES! This bag is fabulous – Buy it Now!

Younger kids will love the three-way accessory from Yodo, which can be used as a backpack, luggage, and handbag. It comes in two size options and four style options for each size.

The bag also has backpack straps, which means that when the little one gets tired of dragging it around, you can easily chuck it on your own back.

>>> YES! This bag is perfect – Buy it Now!

You can also find a list of other great children’s suitcases on wheels here.

13. YAMIU Travel Shoe Bags

I know this comes across as a boring item, but considering how dirty and muddy kids’ shoes can get, I never travel without dedicated shoe bags for their shoes that go along on the trip!

YAMIU offers a pack of travel shoe bags to keep pairs of shoes organized while traveling. You can choose from zipper and drawstring style bags. Select a pack of two, four, or ten bags, as per your requirement.

It is made of nylon and is waterproof. Moreover, it comes with a lifetime warranty.

>>> YES! Grab some shoe bags now!

14. ARMRA Unique Luggage Tag

Who says luggage tags are only for adults? ARMRA offers unique luggage tags that your kid will love! Choose from the A Style 3-pack or the Flower 1-pack. Each of these tags comes with a string and a screw connector.

You can write your name and a contact number on the notecard to ensure easy and quick tracking. My kids love this sort of stuff and I’m sure yours will too.

>>> YES! Grab some luggage tags from Amazon

15. Bagail 6 Set Packing Cubes

Bagail offers an excellent set of six packing cubes to classify and organize your items effortlessly. Packing can be a hassle, especially for kids, because there is so much to take. Toys, books, clothes, medicines, and more.

They are also useful if you have a few kids, we have a different color cube for each child and then when they share a suitcase it is easier for them to keep track of their own stuff.

You can choose from 14 different, vibrant color options. Each bag in this set is made of high-quality nylon fabric and features top-notch zippers. The collection contains two packs each of three sizes.

These are just normal cubes, but if you want to save space it might be worthwhile to invest in some compression cubes. Here is our guide on the best compression packing cubes .

>>> YES! Grab some packing cubes from Amazon

Super Useful and Essential Children’s Travel Accessories

Next up, we have some essential children’s travel accessories. Here is a list of some fabulous buys!

16. Furry Smile Disposable Rain Ponchos for Kids

Unless you are traveling to a destination where (and when) there is no possibility of rainfall, it will not hurt to get a pack of disposable rain ponchos for your kids from Furry Smile.

These ponchos are available in several exciting colors and designs. We especially liked these ponchos because they provide ample space for your kid to move and play while wearing it.

If you would like to find a rain poncho for yourself, we have a great guide to help you find the best rain poncho  here.

>>> YES! We might need these – Buy them Now!

17. Mosquito Repellent Bracelet Band Pack

Pesky mosquitoes and other insects can prove to be a nuisance for you and your kids while traveling. The easiest and safest way to tackle these bugs is to wear a mosquito-repellent bracelet band from Cliganic.

It is made from a combination of essential oils that are known to have insect-repellent properties. The pack of 12 bands costs only ten bucks, making it an excellent travel accessory for your kids.

18. Collapsible Silicone Water Bottles

Nefeeko Bottle offers a pack of two collapsible silicone water bottles, each having 20 oz capacity. It is made from food-grade silicone, making it taste, stain, and odor-resistant. What makes these bottles special is that they can be laid flat, rolled up, or folded when empty.

We especially liked the fact that 10% of all profits from the sale of these bottles go to dolphin rescue and protection programs.

>>> YES! These are Essential – Buy it Now!

19. Unidapt Universal Travel Adapter

One of the essential accessories to have in your luggage is a universal travel adapter, especially if you plan to travel abroad. Unidapt offers, in our opinion, one of the best universal travel adapters you can find out there. It covers more than 180 countries and has four powerful USB ports as well.

It is lightweight, portable, and effortless to use. And it is backed by a lifetime warranty.

The older our kids get the more we realize that they need their own travel adapters to charge up their tablets or phones. So they now each have one that they are responsible for.

20. Valante Premium Family Travel Passport & Document Organizer

This one is for you, but essential for when you have kids.

Keeping your documents organized pays huge dividends throughout, especially while traveling. RFID’s Travel Passport & Document Organizer lets you keep credit cards, money, passports, pens, and other important documents in an organized and secure manner.

It is made from high-quality, water-resistant fabric. You can also find a wider selection of other recommended multiple passport wallets here.

Best Entertainment-Type Kids Travel Gear

Now the older the kids get, the more important entertainment becomes and of course it changes with the years as well. Here are some of our favorites:

21. Apple iPad

Although it cannot be classified as a travel accessory by definition, Apple’s iPad makes for one of the most effective means to keep kids engaged while traveling. Your kid can enjoy playing games, reading books, watching educational videos, and much more on the iPad.

Of course, you could go with a cheaper option and get a tablet, but we have tried out so many tablets and they just never compare in speed and functionality the same way an iPad does.

Plus tablets just tend to have issues (with 3 tablets we got to a day where they just refused to switch on and we had to take them apart to reconnect wires – WAY too much hassle on a trip!)

If your kids are older these will be worth their $$$ as it will help them kill time in transit, on the plane etc.

>>> YES! I want to invest in one of these – Buy it Now!

22. iClever Kids Headphones

Headphones are crucial. Our kids are much happier during road trips when they can listen to their own style of music. They also use it during flights as well – so much better to have comfy headphones that fit properly.

You can choose from three color options – Pink, Black & Blue, and Blue & Yellow. It features an in-built, volume-limiting mechanism to cap the sound level at 94 decibels.

Your child can use this pair of headphones with all standard mobile and tablet devices that have a 3.5mm auxiliary jack. It is backed by a 45-days money-back guarantee and an 18-month replacement warranty.

>>> YES! Buy it now from Amazon

23. OUR MOMENTS Parents Bundle

One of our personal favorites in this list is the Parents Bundle from OUR MOMENTS. It is a pack of two decks containing 200 thought-provoking conversation starters. Who says that traveling with kids cannot be fun? You can use this card game to educate your kid in a fun and exciting way.

The next road trip you take with your kid can be full of exciting conversations with this game. If you are not satisfied with it, you can return it within 30 days for a full refund.

>>> YES! This is such a great idea – Buy it now

24. HP Sprocket Plus Instant Photo Printer

How wonderful would it be if you could take instant prints of beautiful pictures you click while traveling? You can do that by getting the Sprocket Plus from HP, the thinnest photo printer.

It is the size of a smartphone, making it portable and ideal for travelers. It comes with ten sheets of HP Zink Photo Paper. You can quickly print photos by connecting your phone to it through Bluetooth.

We find that our kids love taking photos on the trip, but lose interest in them by the time we get home. I think this is a fabulous way to keep the excitement high, print out some photos and even add them to a little travel journal.

>>> YES! This is so cool – Buy it now from Amazon

25. My Travel Journal

Yes, we have created a super fun travel activity book that will make all the difference on your next family adventure.

It contains space to draw, color, write, and collage – making it a beautiful scrapbook when complete. It is available in the hardcover version only.

>>> Click the link and get your copy of the “A Travel Journal for Kids” on Amazon now :

I WANT A COPY OF THE JOURNAL

26. World Map Coloring Poster

“Color your world as you see it!” Check out this awesome color-in world map poster and create a tonne of fun for both you and your kids.

This is not only a fun activity for the whole family that will ensure numerous hours of coloring. This is bound to be a great addition to your wall art collection when you get back home from your family vacation.

>>> Click the link and get your copy of the “World Map Coloring Poster” here and on Amazon now .

27. World Traveler Coloring Book or The Travel Activity Book for Kids ( Depending on Age )

We believe that a book is one of the best travel accessories you can find for kids.

For kids aged 10 and up, you can get the World Traveler Coloring Book. It contains 30 travel destination sites and nine finished examples. It is beginner-friendly, so your kid need not be a good artist to use this book.

For younger kids (aged 6 to 10 years), we recommend the Travel Activity Book. It consists of word searches, coloring, mazes, spot the difference, and many more fun activities.

28. Briarpatch I Spy Travel Game for Kids

Briarpatch I Spy Travel card game is designed to keep the kids entertained on long and short drives, whilst appreciating the scenery around on the road.

With pictures of familiar objects to find, photographs, and rhyming riddles, this card game will entice even adults to play.

>>> YES! This looks like fun – Buy it now

29. Briarpatch Travel Scavenger Hunt Card Game

The next time you go on a road trip with your child, consider having the Briarpatch Travel Scavenger Hunt Card Game on deck. It takes your child on a fun ride where they hunt for objects found on the cards.

It includes 54 cards and can be played by two or more players of ages 7 and up.

30. Knock Knock On-The-Go GamePad

Knock Knock offers the On-The-Go GamePad, consisting of 12 sheets each of 5 different games along with instructions. It is an effective way to breeze through seemingly long hours of flight or car travel.

Each of these five games is suitable for ages 7 and up. All your child needs with this paper gamepad is a pencil, and he will be good to go!

Final Words on the Best Kids Travel Products

Now that you have gone through our favorite 30 of the best kids’ travel accessories be sure to select those products that best meet your requirements.

We have tried our best to include a wide range of kids’ travel products that are suitable for various age groups.

When it’s all said and done, you as well as your kid should have a good time traveling! So now it is time to go and stock up on some travel gear for yourself and then you are ready!

Till next time, travel safe and have fun!

Tip:  You might also be interested in checking out which are the best long flight accessories .

Jolene Ejmont

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• Family Travel

11 Genius Gadgets That’ll Make Travel with Kids a Breeze (Promise!)

It’s no newsflash that traveling with kids can be a challenge, especially during the holidays. Before you get too worked up about that upcoming long-haul flight or road trip with kids, we’ve compiled a list of great travel gear for families that will make getting from Point A to Point B easier, safer, and hopefully, more fun! From carry-on cases that double as strollers to disposable covers that sanitize airplane trays, these are some of our travel favorites.

Keep>Going First Aid Kit

A mini first aid kit is definitely something you should throw into your carry-on for the next trip. These packs have everything you need from minor boo-boos to dealing with splinters and torn clothes. Their handy zippered container comes in loads of prints and includes a carabiner (which can be surprisingly helpful for lots of travel situations). The Go Kit is a great size for travel with kid-approved bandages included. There’s also an adult kit if you prefer neutral skin-toned bandages.

Keep>Going First Aid Kit ($39.95)—Buy Here!

Organization is key when traveling and you’ll want to be prepared for anything that might arise. Pilly Pal keeps your medications and vitamins organized in a too-cute snapping container. You can use their stickers to designate which items are included in each slot so you don’t have to remember. There’s nothing worse than having to run to the store while on vacation so this is a must-include in your carry-on backpack.

Pilly Pal ($9.99)—Buy Here!

Pocket tripod.

We can’t be the only ones who say all screentime rules are out the window when traveling. The Pocket Tripod is great to keep in your wallet as it is as small as a credit card and will set up your phone or tablet for kid viewing while on the airplane. It easily adjusts to devices of different thicknesses and it works great to snap that perfect family pic while you’re out and about.

Pocket Tripod ($35.00)—Buy Here!

Lusso gear kids tray table cover with pockets.

If you've ever watched your little jet-setter try to play with her toys on an airplane, you know all too well the pain of collecting LEGO or crayons from a dirty plane floor. Enter the Lusso Gear Kids Tray Cover, a strap-on tray that keeps tray tables covered and toys (hopefully) off the ground. The tray has a raised border on all sides to keep sippy cups, LEGO, crayons, etc., from rolling right off mid-flight, and the strap on bottom keeps the whole thing from sliding. The Lusso Gear Tray Table Cover tray also solves the problem of your child eating snacks straight from the dirty tray table. It can also be rolled up and tucked away, which means it's just as useful at your final destination as it is on the journey.

Lusso Gear Kids Tray Table Cover with Pockets ($26.95)—Buy Here!

Jetkids bedbox.

Got a long flight planned? Maybe you really need to do the red-eye, but the thought of traveling with restless toddlers has stopped you? It doesn’t have to anymore! The JetKids by STOKKE Bedbox is a ride-on suitcase that converts into a bed in a regular coach seat. Seriously! If you’ve got a baby or toddler, the lay-flat bed feature of the BedBox makes it totally worth the price. For older kids, stick with the basic "Ridebox" (it's the same suitcase; it just doesn't have the bed converting apparatus inside), which will give your kids a set of wheels (and a suitcase) to zip around the airport. Kids can safely use the ride-on until they're about 77 lbs.  

JetKids BedBox by Stokke Travel Bundle ($274.81)—Buy Here!

Flyte scooter suitcase.

Is it a suitcase or a scooter? It’s both! For any parent who has ever had to lug their own child’s suitcase because he is just “too tired,” and for any parent who has felt that fear of missing the flight because of the snail’s pace of airport walking: the  Zinc Flyte is your new favorite thing. It comes in three sizes: the mini for ages two to four, the midi for ages four to eight and the soon-to-be-released maxi for ages eight and up. The best part? It actually makes travel even more fun for kids! We can actually see this becoming a thing for kids who walk to school each day. Learn more about it here .

Flyte Scooter Suitcase ($129.99)—Buy Here!

Cares airplane harness for kids.

You have a special seat for your kiddo in the car, why not extend that to the airplane? The Cares Harness keeps young children buckled up safely with the same sort of four-point harness used in baby and toddler car seats. Consequently, it keeps kids from sliding out of their seats during unexpected bumps—and it can help kids feel more secure in the air (which means they may actually sleep on the flight!). Plus, the whole thing weighs less than a pound and fits in your purse when not in use. 

Cares Airplane Harness For Kids ($79.99)—Buy Here!

Micro kickboard luggage eazy.

Want to give your toddler a fun way to speed around the airport—without the need for a stroller? Try this nifty invention that makes getting kids to your gate on time way cooler than walking. The Luggage Eazy carry-on (made by the same company that makes Micro scooters) is just like a regular roller suitcase—with one big difference: The top of the case has a built-in seat, so your child can hop on and catch a ride whenever you want to get things going. Rolling your tot around like luggage is way easier than you'd think, thanks to the tripod-style swivel (third) wheel that pops out from the back when your child wants to use the seat. There's also an easy place for your child to prop her feet so that she's perfectly balanced, with no dangling limbs, while in motion.

Note: The seat is designed to fit kids from 18 months to four years old.

Micro Kickboard Luggage Eazy ($199.99)—Buy Here!

Mifold & hifold travel booster seats.

Want to travel with your toddler but NOT your toddler's bulky toddler car seat? The hifold by mifold car seat is here to help. The hifold is a high-back booster seat that folds down small enough to fit in a small carry bag. Not only is it "the most compact, lightweight highback booster ever," it also meets worldwide safety standards and complies with car seat regulations worldwide. If you’ve got older kids—at least four years of age and weighing 40 lbs or more—the mifold the Grab-and-Go Booster is a great option. It folds up to roughly the size of a paperback novel (not kidding about this at all—it is 10x smaller than the average booster and just as safe) and can tuck right into your suitcase or purse. It’s tested and meets regulatory approval in the U.S., U.K. and most other countries. We like it for those times when the rental car seat fails or you’re just not sure who is picking you up at the airport!

Mifold & Hifold Travel Booster Seats ($199.00)—Buy Here! 

Cozyphones headphones.

Headphones are essential for any flight, but what are kids to do when their free airplane earbuds keep falling out of—or not fitting into—their tiny ear canals? Try a pair of CozyPhones! These fleece-encased headphones look like wraparound ear muffs and keep the small speakers right on top of your tot's ears without sliding out or falling off—and without getting so loud the music hurts her eardrums. Plus, they're super comfy (kids can fall asleep without that bulky push of plastic headphones), come in a variety of animal-themed designs, and will keep your kids a little warmer on those long chilly flights. And, they come in grown-up versions, too! 

CozyPhones Headphones ($12.99)—Buy Here!

Jl childress spinner wheelie deluxe car seat travel bag.

Lugging a traditional toddler car seat through the airport can be a workout—and checking your beloved seat with your luggage leaves it open to scratches, dings and grime from who-knows-what it may encounter in transit. Not with the Spinner Wheelie Deluxe Car Seat Travel Bag, which works as both an easy roller and protective cover for your kid's car seat. You'll glide through airports, train stations and cruise terminals with ease thanks to the bag's unique combination of full padding and 360-degree spinner wheels. And, if you're checking the car seat, the bag will protect your child’s car seat from damage, dirt, moisture and germs. Additional features include a top carry handle and a clear ID card pocket. 

JL Childress Spinner Wheelie Deluxe Car Seat Travel Bag ($119.99)—Buy Here!

Additional reporting by Melissa Heckscher, Gabby Cullen & Amber Guetebier

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

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38 Best Baby Travel Gear Items for 2024 + What NOT To Bring

Hi All! My name is Lyric Fergusson. My husband, Asher, and I are the parents of two incredible babies named Kingsley and Aurora (pictured). Our little ones have been with us to France, Italy, Mexico, Belize, Honduras, South America, five Caribbean Islands & on a road trip to California and the Grand Canyon — and having them along has been amazing and mostly stress-free!

This said, as a mama, I fully understand how intimidating it can be to travel with a baby, especially for the first time.

We feel that having the right gear is key to making a family trip a truly enjoyable one, and we believe it is a large part of why we’ve had such wonderful travels with our babies. That’s why we created this guide for the must-haves and great accessories that will make traveling as a family way easier!

38 Essential Baby Travel Items

1. travel stroller.

Airport security rules state that any stroller that weighs over 20 lbs (9 kgs), is too bulky, or is non-collapsible must be checked at the ticket counter .

Mamas, this means if your stroller exceeds the weight limits, you will be schlepping your baby and ALL of your bags through the airport with no stroller. Suffice it to say, you’ll regret the decision to bring a heavy stroller.

This Summer Infant 3DLite is our top travel stroller pick. It’s inexpensive, durable, only 13 lbs, and has a multi-position recline that goes practically flat for an on-the-go nap. It fits in the smallest of trunks and we’ve even hauled it (pretty easily) up and down six flights of stairs in Paris. If the 3D Lite isn’t your bucket-list stroller, check out the Nova for luxury, the Summer Two-Seater , or a foldable wagon which is always a fun idea (especially if you’re hauling around more than one toddler or headed to a beach destination!)

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Stroller + Car Seat Combo

You can compromise with the best of both worlds – opting for this 3-in-1 Trio system by Chicco . It is designed with travel in mind, helping you create a full-blown system that your kids can grow with. While in stroller mode, the canopy expands for UV protection, or you can push it down and click it into place to activate car-seat/booster mode. It quickly folds and unfolds to suit your needs and holds so much stuff like groceries, blankets, etc.

I will say, it’s slightly bulkier than some options, but that’s the trade-off of having an all-in-one piece, which means fewer items to carry around. Overall, it will make your baggage lighter and cut down on the amount of equipment you have to keep up with.

3. Convertible Travel Carseat

While the stroller + car seat combo is ideal for infants, this option is better for families needing more weight flexibility and a car seat for growing kids.

I would never put my baby in a car without a car seat. However, I cannot imagine lugging around our 35 lb one across the airport, let alone Europe! This one weighs only 12 lbs and works for children from 5-65 lbs (check the weight limits for each mode, forward or rear-facing).

Note: All airlines will check your car seat at the ticket counter free of charge.

4. Travel Crib (a.k.a. Travel Playpen)

In our experience, the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib is the best of the best when it comes to travel cribs. It’s only 12 lbs, really well-made, and you can put it together and take it down in less than 10 seconds (without reading any instructions!) The crib has an extremely cushy mattress pad that lays flat on the Earth, (unlike the Guava Lotus which we didn’t like ) and most other travel cribs where the mattresses hover above the ground and wobble whenever your baby shifts during the night (sounds comfy, right?)

It even comes with a chic, easy-to-carry case. Our little guy has slept beautifully through the night on every trip we have ever taken and I really think it is because of this crib. You can let them play and nap in it before you head out so they can become familiar with it. They will sleep so much better!

Note: All domestic airlines will check your crib at the ticket counter free of charge. I always check with international carriers about their policy prior to traveling.

5. Quick-Dry Travel Towels

Travel towels are one of the most versatile items you can pack. It can serve as a drool rag, seat cover, packing cushion, and much more. They’re also amazing for cleaning up spills! When we discovered these, we stopped bringing along bulky towels or trying to pack fluffy ones that the hotel provides when going on beach trips. This one dries 10x faster than cotton and weighs less than half a pound — perfect for in the diaper bag!

6. Travel Insurance for Your Trip

Since your domestic provider typically does not cover you outside of the country, the last thing you want to worry about is rushing a spouse or child to the hospital and having to pay out-of-pocket for a five-figure bill. Protect your vacation investment and your loved ones with travel insurance – it’s a small price compared to anything else you’re booking, yet will cover you for flight cancellations, delays, baggage loss, theft, and expensive medical emergencies.

We use Faye because they are revolutionizing the insurance game! While most providers make the process miserable with tons of paperwork and hoops to jump through – Faye reimburses you through their mobile app, making the claims process a cakewalk. Get a customized quote for each trip and traveler. It’s very affordable for young families since it goes up in cost with age and is worth it for the sheer peace of mind.

Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

7. Diaper Changing Pad

My husband and I use the  Kopi Baby changing pad religiously during travel because it folds up easily into a small bag, keeping everything clean (wipes, diapers, etc.) even when we’re in seriously dirty places.

We have used it on the airport floor, in the Louvre, and in Caribbean bathrooms that had no changing tables. Yuck! It’s honestly the bomb and really worth the spend for travel.

8. Short-Sleeved Bib

These amazing bibs from Bumpkins are my favorites because they are wearable like a shirt. Simply latch the back and your kiddo’s outfit will have full coverage from even the goopiest of foods. It’s waterproof and therefore super easy to clean — even in small cruise ship sinks — while also drying quickly and saving you a lot of cleanup!

9. Hanging Toiletry Bag

Moms deal with more STUFF than basically anyone on the planet (wipes, tissues, first-aid, snacks, toys, oh my!) Use this hanging toiletry bag to organize all of your family’s toiletries in one bag instead of dealing with unhinged chaos all over the hotel room. This is a way easier system than piling tons of plastic sacks with liquid bottles that you’re trying to keep from leaking all over your suitcase.

We’re obsessed with this bag from Eco Sun, a sustainable company in Hawaii that is made by travelers, for travelers. It organizes all of our self-care routines (and thus, our sanity!) with a leakproof design and stain-resistant material. There are 4 pockets on the inside with elastic bands to hold your bottles and brushes in place, plus 3 external compartments for smaller items that you need easy access to. It’s an elegant and cohesive system for an area of my life that would otherwise be pretty stressful on the road.

10. Stroller Clips

Whether you are using a blanket to block out the sun or to keep your little one warm, stroller clips are awesome because they’ll secure the blanket just where it needs to be. That way, your baby can sleep peacefully — and you can push them easily (no more blankets getting tangled in the wheels, blown off by the wind, or dragged on the floor).

Stroller clips are also great for attaching the diaper bag, your purse, baby’s toys, or really anything else to the stroller.

11. Stroller Protector Bag

You will typically have to check your stroller at the gate between flights and this bag will save it from getting wet or damaged as the flight crew is literally throwing it on and off the belly of the plane. The Hap Tim Stroller Bag is extremely sturdy and streamlined, which is helpful when moving the stroller in and out of taxis, hotels, and rental cars, and it has a long set of straps that make carrying the stroller a piece of cake.

12. Wet/Dry Sacks

Poop can happen at any time. In case you don’t want to mess up your nicer diaper bags, having wet/dry bags on hand at all times is beyond useful. These are just as durable as your high-end bags but not so precious that you’ll worry about them getting ruined (about what you would spend on a week’s worth of ziplocks). It also is easier to clean in the washing machine and traps the stinky diaper smell so you’re not trapped in a stink bubble all day! Besides being leakproof, you’re helping Mother Earth by going reusable.

13. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

After having items stolen out of our check luggage, we never forgo luggage locks. We bring a couple of sets for suitcases, city lockers, using backpacks in crowded areas, and more. Plus, these are TSA-approved so you won’t suffer through any hang-ups at security.

14. Insulated Food Jar

This jar has saved us so many times. If your baby is eating solids but is picky, likes warm snacks, or is just not into eating restaurant food yet (and you aren’t too keen on always giving them jars of pre-packaged food), I would bring along one of these. You can bake them a yam at grandma’s or order some steamed veggies at your hotel and throw the food in the Foogo Thermos , and it will stay warm for hours while you tour Rome or head to the beach.

15. Neck Wallet

When traveling with little ones, things can get hectic REAL QUICK while going through airports, taxis, and beyond. This neck wallet makes it super easy to keep track of where your family’s passports, phones, credit cards, cash, and plane tickets are while also preventing petty theft or sticky fingers. My hubby wears his with all four of our family’s passports and when we’re in crowded places, he conceals it under his shirt. This one also comes with RFID-blocking material to stop e-thieves from scanning your financial data.

16. Diaper Bag

For your full-blown Diaper bag, this bag is awesome for allowing you to have tons of storage in a waterproof case. This diaper bag from BabbleRoo is stylish, lightweight, and won’t break the bank. It also has 18 pockets to hold everything from diapers to a water bottle to your cell phone. And if you spill milk (or baby pukes on the bag), no problem! The wipe-clean material is super easy to clean. Bonus: It comes with a matching changing pad in case you forget your Kopi Baby !

17. Sleep Sack

We love the Woolino sleep sack! It is 100% natural, made from premium soft Australian merino wool, has an organic cotton outer shell, and is machine-washable. It also regulates the body temperature and is comfortable for baby from external temperatures as low as 60°F (16°C) to as high as 77°F (25°C).

It’s a great way to keep your honey cozy on an airplane, and so helpful for unpredictable temperatures in hotels or and even at grandma’s house. One extra bonus: we don’t have to travel with many blankets which keeps our luggage weight down.

18. Homeopathic First Aid Kit

Don’t leave home without these remedies – we certainly don’t. They are natural, safe, effective, and don’t cause harmful side effects.

They have saved us repeatedly during teething, tummy aches, or crabby spells. I can’t recommend them enough.

• Camilia Teething Relief  – These all-natural drops relieve painful gums and irritability from teething, as well as associated digestive distress. The single-use containers help prevent contamination.
• Natural Gas Relief  – Even with the grape flavor, these drops have NO artificial flavors or dyes. They provide natural relief for all the symptoms that come along with gas, like bloating, colic, constipation, and restlessness.
• Baby Calm – If your baby is fussy or won’t sleep, try these tablets. They’re quick-dissolving and provide immediate relief, so you can both get back to sleep.
• Earache Relief  – If your baby has an earache, these all-natural drops will help relieve symptoms like fever, pain, irritability, and sleeplessness. The dosing dropper makes it super easy to apply the drops.
• Echinacea Drops  – Our little guy has yet to get sick while we’ve traveled, and I really think It’s due to these drops. If Kingsley looks like he is possibly heading in the sick direction I give him this and it boosts his immune system immediately. He even likes the taste.
• Baby Vitamin C – Vitamin C is another awesome immune booster which I give our son a few days before we begin traveling. I give it to him again if I think he seems like he might be catching something.

19. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Did you know that you risk your private data whenever you join a public network at cafes, Airbnbs, hotels, and the airport? And many people can monitor your online activity without your permission, including cyber thieves, your internet provider, government entities, and nosy neighbors! A virtual private network (VPN) keeps all of your digital information secure from hackers so you don’t have to worry about your credit cards, passwords, or other confidential info getting stolen.

You’re bound to connect to a random Wi-Fi network when traveling, so take the extra step to encrypt your network with a VPN like NordVPN . It’s super affordable and will also limit any local censorship you may face, which can block your favorite websites like Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, and more. We never travel without a VPN and even use it at home to ensure a safe connection! Give it a try, there’s even a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

View options at NordVPN ➜

20. Luggage Straps

Just as every outdoorsman should carry rope – every parent should have this adjustable strap! It’s a multi-purposeful item that can serve you in a variety of ways (depending on how creative you want to get). First and foremost, it secures your checked luggage and carry-on bags for rough handling and takes the pressure off of your zippers.

Beyond this, the brightly-colored straps will help your family’s bags stand out at the arrivals terminal (where everyone and their uncle has the same black bag), so it’s a massive timesaver.

More creatively, you can tether a bunch of bags together, create a makeshift strap if one breaks, compress items that are overpacked, and basically secure anything that is falling apart. I once used these to fix my friend’s suitcase that broke, which got us through to the next flight. And the built-in contact card is invaluable if your bags end up getting lost. It’s one of our favorite discoveries and a must for any traveler’s packing list!

21. Packing Cubes

If you have ever dug frantically into a suitcase looking for a single clean baby sock while your whole family is downstairs waiting for you, you will understand why packing cubes are a necessity! I usually put my son’s t-shirts and shorts in one cube, his long-sleeved sweaters and pants in another, and accessories in another. It seriously helps us stay organized!

Available on  HeroTravelSupply.com  with an exclusive 15% discount using the coupon code  “HERO” .

Or view on Amazon.com ➜

22. Mini White Noise Machine

You might think, “Why do I need a white noise machine when I have an App on my iPhone?” Well, let me tell you that if you use your phone for white noise, that means your phone is held hostage in the baby’s room while you are in the living room trying to make a dinner reservation or check work emails, etc.

This pocket-sized white noise machine was the best purchase we made before our Caribbean cruise adventure. Both at our hotel in Puerto Rico and on the cruise itself, we had to deal with some really rowdy people yelling at all hours of the night. We were kind of shocked – our little dude slept peacefully through the night when we had this white noise machine on. I won’t travel without it now. It takes up virtually no space and you never know who is going to be your neighbor!

23. Sanitizing Wipes

These are awesome! They are cheap and I’ve used them to wipe down airline trays, restaurant high chairs, bathroom changing tables (and of course, our hands) while exploring. The individual packets fit easily in your diaper bag or your coat pocket without being bulky. An absolute 5-star in our book.

24. Baby Carrier

Ok, I know most of you probably already have a baby carrier, but I have to mention this Baby Bjorn Carrier because it’s been amazing for us while traveling.

It’s really comfortable, not bulky, and can easily fold up and fit under the stroller. We even use it as a portable high chair! How? Well, when my little dude was too tiny to fit in a restaurant high chair but was eating solids, he could comfortably have his entire meal while strapped to my hubby. It made eating out really enjoyable and low-stress, plus the carrier is super easy to wipe down and wash.

25. Universal Power Adapter

There are 15 styles of outlets around the world, so it’s nice to avoid buying a brand new power adapter for each country. This universal option is compatible with outlets in 100+ popular destinations and has multiple USB outlets for efficient charging. Not to mention, it very well could be the last adapter you ever have to buy since it comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee.

26. Inflatable Travel Bed

This adorable inflatable toddler bed is a game-changer for kiddos who are too big for a crib but need their own space to sleep on a trip. I worry about my tots falling out of massive beds at hotels or Airbnbs, and this option is comfy, easy to blow up, and keeps them close while still giving them a sense of independence. We’ve traveled with two of these for years and our kiddos are big fans!

27. Neck Pillow for Toddlers

Speaking of difficulty in transit, a neck pillow for kids is smart to have on-hand in case your babes can’t sprawl out. For those of you familiar with the strange positions your children’s heads can get into on long car rides, this one will support your toddler’s neck and be useful in almost all traveling scenarios. Moms that are breastfeeding may consider an inflatable nursing pillow that is made for travel and lumbar support.

28. Windproof Travel Umbrella

An umbrella should always be in your travel artillery and this one weighs only 1-pound and fits in your diaper bag. It comes with a convenient carrying case and has sheltered us from some pretty vicious storms since it’s windproof and covers 2 people (plus baby if you all snuggle close!)

29. Portable High Chair

We love bringing our foldable high chair to make mealtime go much smoother whether you are at an AirBnB or at grandma’s. It works for babies up to toddlers and is a great solution for restaurants that don’t have booster seats or high chairs. It’s compact and has some sneaky pockets, plus a carrying case. The tray is free of harmful chemicals like BPA, and it’s dishwasher safe.

30. All-in-One Food Processor

A food processor is so useful for blending up fresh fruits and vegetables for your little one on-the-go. This set comes with silicon molds as a freezer tray and glass cases for storage. My babies loved easy concoctions like mangos with sweet potatoes, carrot with orange, and bananas with strawberries. Yum!

31. Cooling Towel

For any tropical escapes or warm destinations, this cooling towel is a godsend! It’s absolutely non-toxic and safe for baby to hold onto. By adding water and wringing it out, the towel magically drops to 20-30 degrees colder than the outside temp. Anytime you need more icey relief, simply add more water. It will save baby, dad and mom from heat-induced melt-downs. Try it out and you can thank us later!

32. Baby-Proofing Gear

Babyproofing is something you should consider doing anywhere you stay. Whether they’re crawling, scooting, or starting to walk, it’s a preventative measure worth taking, especially if you are traveling to a home or Bnb that you know is not baby-proofed

Of course, a gate should be kept anywhere you don’t want your little one to roam (like the stairs or outside). For your curious explorers, you may also need outlet covers , safety straps for cabinets, door knob covers , and corner protectors for tables or sharp edges.

33. Car Seat Protector Backpack

Many parents complain that their car seat has gotten dirty, cracked or damaged when they’ve traveled — especially if they check it at the ticket counter. Because of this bag, we’ve never had any trouble.

It’s padded, and although you might look a little ridiculous with it on your back, I can’t tell you how nice it is to have two free hands when you are trying to wrangle multiple children and luggage. I’m a pretty tiny woman, and I can very comfortably wear it while using my hands for other things.

34. Inflatable Baby Bathtub

Not only is this thing cute as can be, but it blows up easily to make a bathtub that’s fantastic for travel. The textured bottom means baby won’t slip around, but it’s small enough to keep them in place. It’s surprisingly scientific since it has hot-white technology that lets you know when the water is too hot, displaying a different color. It was awarded ‘top baby bath’ in 2016 and is easy to drain from the bottom without any heavy lifting.

35. Baby-Safe Dish Soap

Cleaning bottles, sippy cups, bibs, and pacifiers on the go can be a bit of a challenge, I know! And it’s really hard to get to a destination and realize you have no soap to wash your bubba’s stuff (story of my life in the Caribbean… whoops!) I now bring along baby-safe dish soap so that I can be sure that all of Kingsley and Aurora’s belongings stay clean even when I’m rushing to wash them in a tiny bathroom basin.

36. Travel Potty-Training Seat

This is excellent for traveling families with a toddler in toilet training! Not only is it adorable, but it comes in many different colors and latches onto most standard-sized toilets. The foldable design means you can store it in your diaper bag and then whip it out when necessary at hotels, malls, airports, on planes, or wherever. WAY easier than holding your kid in the air as they hover over a gross toilet seat! And super easy to clean.

37. Diaper Rash Cream

This is hands down the best diaper rash cream out there! We initially got it in a gift set with our first baby but have now bought countless tubes. It is the main diaper cream we use, especially if we are trying to treat a rash. We will sometimes use Aquaphor Baby Healing Ointment if we are just preventing irritation on a clear butt. If we have a really bad rash, we will layer and use both. This cream is so thick, smells lovely, and works without the harsh chemicals.

38. Your Favorite Bedtime Story

Maintaining your routine while traveling will add a sense of normalcy to the experience. Your little one will find comfort in familiarity and it will help them sleep in a new place. So bring along your favorite book or try a new one to end the day with a sweet story. Reading aloud builds a network of words in their heads and can help them develop their language and speaking skills more quickly. Plus, your voice is so soothing to them and will help ease them into sleep.

Additional Baby Travel Gear to Consider

• Crib Sheets
• Travel Laundry Bag
• Baby Monitor
• Changing Pad
• Cheap Burp Cloths
• Cooling Towels
• Nursing Cover-up
• Breast-pump Backpack
• Travel Nursing Pillow
• Baby Dishes
• Baby Utensils
• Pacifier & Bottle Wipes
• Roadtrip Organizer
• Travel Towels
• Soft Washcloths
• Swim Diapers
• Stroller Fan
• Spillproof Snack Cup
• Luggage Locks
• Plane Window Toys
• Weleda Baby On the Go Kit
• Kid-Safe Bug Repellent
• Laundry Soap

What NOT to Bring when Traveling with Baby

1. don’t bring a bulky stroller (no jogging strollers.

They’re hard to get in and out of a small rental car, and almost impossible to lift when you’re juggling baby AND luggage at the same time (and don’t even think about trying to collapse it!).

2. DON’T TAKE a bulky car seat

A big, heavy car seat also makes it hard to hold baby and deal with luggage, and even harder to run through the airport to catch your flight! Plus car seats can get damaged when traveling, so you don’t want to be using an expensive one.

3. DON’T PACK cloth diapers

Cloth diapers are eco-friendly, but don’t feel bad if you don’t want to mess with them when traveling. They create a lot of extra work, and you’ll already be plenty busy traveling with a baby.

4. DON’T BRING heavy toys

There’s no need to lug around your baby’s heaviest toys when you’re traveling. Bring their lightweight ones instead, and you can always buy a few new toys at your destination for added fun!

5. DON’T PACK too many blankets

It’s tempting to think you should bring tons of extra blankets “just in case.” Just don’t. Go for a sleep sack instead – they’re easier and they stay put on their own. Bringing extra blankets is asking for weight, bulk, and extra laundry!

6. DON’T TAKE too many diapers

Disposable diapers are bulky, so think about how many you’ll need before you pack (do bring some extras – just not too many extras!). Better yet, have  Honest Company Diapers  ship a pack to your location, or if you’re going overseas, just buy them when you arrive.

7. DON’T BRING heavy baby books

Maybe you want to use your vacation time to catch up on some reading, but this is not the time to tackle that 500-page book on everything you’re doing wrong as a parent. You’re on vacation, treat yourself to some light beach reading instead, and make it even more convenient by using a Kindle .

8. DON’T PACK too few baby clothes

I know this sounds odd, but it’s a balance. Of course you don’t want your suitcase to be too heavy, but you don’t want to spend your whole trip washing either. And honestly, it’s not like baby clothes weigh much!

9. DON’T TAKE full-sized bottles

Traveling with a baby means packing lots of liquids (baby shampoo, baby lotion, dish soap, etc.), on top of your own toiletries. So many regular-sized bottles will be way too heavy, so pack all your liquids in travel-sized containers instead.

10. DON’T PACK too many disposable items

No matter where you’re traveling, you’ll probably be able to get things like wet wipes, tissues, and plastic bags pretty easily. So just bring as many as you’ll realistically use, and know that you can easily pick up more if you end up needing them.

FAQs about traveling with a baby

1. does my baby need a passport.

Yes. Regardless of their age, your baby needs a passport for international trips, including to Canada.

To get them a passport in the U.S., you will need a copy of the birth certificate and two 2″x2″ photos of the baby (from the shoulders up), and both parents need to come with the baby to a passport acceptance facility. Single parents must present a custody agreement, and if one parent is not able to come (such as if they’re stationed elsewhere), a signed and notarized Form DS-3053 will also have to be presented.

2. How should I choose a hotel when traveling with a baby?

• To minimize your time schlepping everything around, look for a hotel that’s near the attractions you plan to visit or at least near public transportation if you’ll be using it.
• Having quiet at nighttime is key, so try to avoid hotels on busy streets, as well as older buildings, which may not have good soundproofing.
• You’ll probably need to do laundry at some point, so check for either coin-op laundry in the hotel or a nearby laundromat.
• Try to find a hotel with large rooms, which will allow plenty of space to set up a crib or playpen.
• Make sure the bathroom has a tub, and not just a shower, which seems to be getting more common.
• Even if the room doesn’t have a full kitchen, it’s useful to at least have a refrigerator, as well as some counter space to make bottle-washing easier.
• If you’re not planning to bring a travel crib, call the hotel before you book to double-check that they’ll provide one.

3. What should I do to baby-proof our hotel room?

• Ask before you arrive if the hotel offers baby-proofing supplies (or even baby-proofed rooms)
• Check that all the furniture in the room (including the TV) is stable
• Check the floor (including under the bed) for anything a baby could put in their mouth: coins, rocks, pills, bottle caps, etc.
• Put blue painter’s tape over outlets.
• Tape foam squares over any sharp corners near the floor
• Tape the toilet lid down
• Tape any electrical cords to the furniture out of baby’s reach

4. Does my baby need a plane ticket?

Different airlines have varying policies on infant travel, but buying a ticket for children under two years old is usually optional. Without a ticket, the baby has to be held on your lap throughout the flight, and some airlines charge a “lap child fee,” especially for international flights.

If you’re planning to fly with a child in your lap, you should inform the airline in advance. But if you’d rather have a separate seat for your baby, you can book them one at a child’s fare.

5. Which airlines are the most baby-friendly?

The best airline for you depends on what’s most important to you when it comes to flying with your baby. These airlines are regularly rated as the most family- and child-friendly:

• Eithad: Their Flying Nannies are special flight attendants whose job is to help you fly with your baby, and they also offer a bottle-warming service on board.
• Emirates Airlines: The Dubai airport provides complimentary strollers, and the airline provides children on the plane with an entertainment kit that includes blankets and a fuzzy “We Fly With Me” stuffed animal.
• Air New Zealand: Their Economy Skycouch connects three seats and converts into a bed for comfort and easier sleeping, and the airline also provides bassinets on board.

6. How much baby food and milk/formula can I bring in my carry-on luggage?

Bring as much as you’ll need for the flight. Baby food, formula, and milk are exempted from the 3-ounce rule for liquids, but you do need to declare it at security so it can be inspected separately. They run a harmless test on excepted baby liquids, and once they’re done they will reseal it and give it back to you.

Even for parents traveling with children, water is still not allowed, so plan to buy it or bring a reusable filtered water bottle to fill up once you’ve passed through security.

7. How can I help my baby sleep on the plane?

Parents planning on using a bassinet, book a front-row seat if possible to make sure there’s plenty of space. Consider bringing a  sleep sack  to keep them more comfortable and a blanket or scarf to drape over the bassinet and block out light. And of course, bring their pacifier and any favorite toys. Feed your baby during take-off, which will help pop their ears, reduce discomfort, and calm them down.

8. How many diapers do I need to bring on a trip?

A good rule of thumb is to bring one diaper per hour of flight or car time, but it’s always a good idea to bring some extras beyond that, just in case.

9. Can I go camping with a baby?

If you’ve never been camping before, this might not be the best time to get into it.

Otherwise, it’s a good idea to get an okay from your pediatrician first, but many families absolutely go on camping trips with infants, and have plenty of fun! You’ll just want to be more aware of weather, drive time, cleanliness, baby-safe  insect repellent , and supplies, and it probably goes without saying that your baby likely won’t sleep through the night in a tent.

10. What are the best places to travel with a baby?

Depending on your travel preferences, beach destinations and national parks can make for great baby-friendly getaways. They tend to be mellow and allow for a lot of flexibility with your schedule and activities.

Alternatively, all-inclusive resorts make things easy and will usually provide all the amenities you need – plus they tend to be VERY fun!

Of course, a staycation or a visit to family or friends are good options, too, and will probably feel a little more familiar to you and baby.

11. What kinds of things are required when flying with a baby? Do I have to have a special seatbelt?

YES, you do need a special seatbelt for toddlers and up to a certain weight. Babies will likely need their own carseat, or you can typically hold them in your lap. If the airline doesn’t require you to purchase a ticket for a lap-child, this is a great way to save money as long as you’re comfortable holding your little one the whole time.

In instances like this it’s handy to have a  baby sling  which can be tightened to hold baby close, or loosened to act as a lap-cradle to relieve your back and arms while baby sleeps.

Verify the TSA requirements for traveling with small children  here .

Here are some links to the relevant car seat rules for the major US airlines so you can be prepared for your next flight:

• Alaska Airlines
• American Airlines
• Delta Airlines (and also here )
• Frontier Airlines
• Hawaiian Airlines
• Southwest Airlines
• Spirit Airlines
• United Airlines
• Virgin America (and also here )

Lyric Fergusson

Travelling Equipment (1-5 Years)

Pram or Pushchair Safety

• Ensure it has British Safety Standards certification.
• Check for a five-point safety harness that securely straps the child.
• Choose a pram or pushchair with a firm, flat surface for your child to rest on.
• Always apply the brakes when stationary to prevent it from rolling away.
• Never hang bags or items on the handles as they can cause the pram or pushchair to tip over .

High Backed Booster Seats

• Until your child reaches 15 months old , their car seat should be rear-facing.
• Once over this age they should use a forward-facing car seat .
• High backed booster seats should be used until they are 135cm tall (or 12 years old) according to British law.
• Make sure the seat is fitted correctly with the belt running through all the right guides.
• Always check for the E mark that shows the seat complies with European Safety Standards.

Car Travel General Safety

• If a child is under 3 years of age, they must always be in a car seat when travelling, no exceptions.
• If they are over 3 years old, they must also use a car seat unless their journey is an unexpected necessity , then they can use an adult seat belt.
• Kids should always be seated in the rear seats of the car for safety reasons.

Bike Seat Safety

• Bike seats should be fitted directly above the bike’s centre of gravity to ensure balance isn’t affected.
• The child should wear a properly fitting helmet and be strapped into the seat with a secure harness .
• Choose a bike seat with foot guards to prevent the child’s feet from getting caught in the bike’s wheel.

Travel Cot Safety

• Make sure the cot complies with BS EN 716:2008+A1:2013 safety standard .
• Do not use the travel cot as a playpen , it is not designed to withstand a toddler’s play routine.
• Make sure the cot has a firm and flat mattress and fits snugly to avoid gaps which may lead to entrapment.
• Always check the locks and latches are secure when assembled.

10 Fantastic Toys for Travelling with 4 & 5 year olds

Wondering what toys to take when travelling with kids? Here are 10 fantastic activities and toys for travelling with 4-5 year olds.

Travelling with kids can be a lot of work! Never mind the actual travelling part, but even just the packing and getting ready can be tricky. In addition to the basics (clothing, toiletries, etc), now you also have to think about what activities and toys would be best to take with you.

You want to make sure your child is entertained while travelling, but you also don’t want to bring excess baggage or take up too much space in the car.

So to help with some suggestions and ideas on what to take when travelling with kids, we’ve rounded up our favourite travel toys for 4-5 year olds.

10 Best Toys for Travelling with 4-5 year olds

As we mentioned above, the best travel toys for 4 and 5 year olds should be small enough to fit in your luggage without taking up too much room, but still provide hours of entertainment.

While we’ve listed our favourite activities and toys to travel with, these are just a suggestion – each child is different and enjoys playing with different things! Stick with what you know your child likes and enjoys doing – there’s not much point in packing a new toy, only to find out that your child isn’t interested in it and it stays in the luggage the entire trip.

1. Magformers

One of our all time favourite toys are Magformers . These magnetic, geometric pieces can be used to build all kinds of things (cars, people, buildings) and then taken apart again just as easily. There are many different sets of Magformers available now, but the ones without wheels or added pieces are best to travel with. Each of the boys have a basic set which packs really flat (we use a pencil case to store them but anything will work).

2. Colouring and Activity Books

Colouring is a great activity for kids. Not only does it help develop their fine motor skills, it’s a quiet activity that can be done almost anywhere. Many colouring books also include some activities like dot-to-dot or mazes, to keep kids busy and provide a bit of variety. Don’t forget to pack the crayons and markers!

3. Colour by Number

Similar to colouring books, these colour by number books are a great activity to take travelling. Kids can practice their fine motor skills while also learning numbers and letters. My guys love the small colour by number books that you can usually find at the dollar store. They come with markers and are easy enough to pull out while waiting in the airport or playing in a hotel room, while still being small enough to fit in their backpacks. You can also find some on Amazon, like this one from Melissa & Doug .

Puzzles are a great way to keep kids entertained, but also help them with their problem-solving skills. If it’s a new puzzle, be sure to bring a Ziploc bag to store the pieces after. If a puzzle that’s already been opened, put the pieces in a bag before packing it, to ensure none of the pieces get lost. This Ravensburger World Map is perfect to bring travelling!

5. Hand held toys like cars or dolls

Kids love to play make believe, so why not pack a few of their favourite small hand held toys like cars or dolls? My boys can easily amuse themselves for hours playing with their hot wheels, whether it’s waiting at the airport or in a hotel. If your child loves playing with dolls, Melissa and Doug also make a portable doll house with carrying handles . Although it’s not small, it IS pretty portable and makes for a great toy to travel with if your child loves playing with doll houses.

6. First Paint

The First Paint art pads only require water, which makes it a perfect art activity to take travelling. The paint comes in solid cubes at the top of the art pad and when water is added, it turns into a liquid paint. There’s no messy paint spills! Paintbrush and paint are included.  

7. Sticker Books

Stickers are always a hit with kids. You can find plenty of educational sticker books, like this one from Scholastic which is great for teaching STEM concepts, or these from National Geographic . Melissa and Doug also make great sticker books , which have reusable stickers that can be used on different scenes, perfect for creating multiple adventures!

8. Wiki Stix

These colourful waxy sticks can be shaped into all kinds of different shapes and figures which is good for developing fine motor skills, as well as encouraging creativity. The wax provides that ‘stickability’ factor so they stick to paper and other smooth surfaces but no glue or paste is required. Best of all, they are easy to peel up and reuse! We’ve used these for a few years on road trips and travels and they are still going strong!

9. Card Games

There are lots of great card games out there designed for young kids and they are a great activity to take travelling! Cards are small and compact, but provides hours of educational fun. Games like Go Fish and Memory are great for young kids, or you can find specific sets of card games like these ones here .

Kids love books, so be sure to pack a few favourites to read while you are away. If you are travelling for a few days, the 5 minute stories books are great – there’s a new bedtime story every day!

And don’t forget to pack a Stuffie!

This might seem like an odd thing to add to the list, but it’s the easiest option of all! If your kids play with stuffed animals at home, bringing one or two (but not a favourite one – just in case!) will help them feel more comfortable and will also give them something to play with while travelling.

Hopefully this post has given you some inspiration and suggestions on what toys to take travelling for 4-5 year olds. If you have any other great suggestions, let us know in the comments below.

Click HERE or the image below to download a printable pdf.

Happy travelling!

For more activities and ideas for travelling with kids, be sure to check out these posts:

• Best Gifts for Kids that Travel
• Awesome Travel Gifts for Mom
• Best Travel Toys for 2-3 year olds
• The Best Road Trip Activities for Young Kids

Erin Martin is the founder and sole writer for Wanderlust with Kids. Together with her twin boys, they have travelled to over 20 countries and five provinces within Canada. Erin is responsible for planning and facilitating all of her family's travel itineraries and adventures, whether locally or internationally. An explorer at heart, Erin aims to make any travel adventure kid-friendly and shares all her favourite family-friendly things to do, both in Canada and abroad.

Forgetting the favourite stuffie can result in a disaster even now, long after my kid was 4-5 years old! LOL

Can I just say that I am sooooo glad I am not traveling with little ones anymore. My girls are all late teens and twenties and are great travelers now. Making the effort then was a lot of work but totally worth.

This is a great resource! Those long trips we are about to be taking with our toddlers to spend Thanksgiving and Christmas with family. This will help so much on those trips!

Thanks! Glad it will help!

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57 Brilliant Travel Accessories Every Traveller Must Have [2024 Edition]

Travel smarter and safer in 2024 with 57 of the best brilliant travel accessories and travel gadgets. From the best adapters, earplugs, space-savers, travel safety to portable chargers.

1. this ergonomic travel pillow.

The smart design of this washable pillow prevents your head from falling forwards as you sleep. Suitable for adults and children and perfect to use on airplanes, buses, trains, cars, camping, while backpacking, wheelchairs, airport terminals, or even while watching TV.

Buy it here

2. Pack more with these awesome space bags ! I have 20 of them!

Saving space in your suitcase is no longer a challenge with these amazing space bags that push out the air when rolled up. You effectively gain up to 50% more space in your baggage. I use the larger ones at home and the smaller ones for travel. They make for great organisers too!

Buy them here

3. Keep your dirty clothes separate with this handing laundry bag

Keep your dirty clothes organized and separate. This handy GOMATIC hanging laundry bag has a strap to attach it to a doorknob. Once your laundry bag is full, you can easily pack it and have it ready to empty straight into your washing machine when you get home. Buy it here.

4. Get this cute secret pocket infinity scarf

5. This Travel-sized Wireless Router with USB Media Storage

Convert any wired network to a wireless network and stay connected! Not only that you can also stream your videos, photos, and music to your connected media devices. If that wasn’t enough, back up and free up space on your mobile devices by using an attached USB flash drive or hard disk.

6. This Travel Door Alarm

Travelling alone or just wanted added peace of mind in your accommodation? Attach this pocket-sized alarm to your door or window and be alerted the second there is an intruder. There’s also a built-in LED flashlight so there’s no fumbling in the dark.

7. This Multi-Bag Stacker

No more bag juggling or pushing multiple trolleys/carts, just attached this nifty strap that connects suitcases and bags together through their handles.

8. These Amazing Space-Saving Laundry Soap Sheets

Add water and the sheet will dissolve instantly. They also come in shaving, body wash and hand soap versions.

9. Protect your phone from water, drops and scratches with this Lifeproof Case

10. this digital luggage scale.

You’ll never be surprised with having to pay for excess weight at the airport again. This compact and lightweight luggage scale can weigh up to 110 lb / 50 kg luggage. No batteries required.

11. No more breaks and leak with this inflatable bottle bag

This versatile roll-up travel bag suspends items in an inflatable air cushion to protect your bottles such as wine and olive oil. No more nasty surprises and messy spills when you open your suitcase.

12. Boost Circulation with these highly-rated compressions socks

13. Keep your Laptop and Other Items safe with a Portable Safe

14. This Vintage Laptop and Travel Backpack that Charges your Gadgets

15. The Only Travel Adapter You’ll Ever Need PLUS Dual USB Ports (Covers 150 Countries)

16. This inspirational luggage tag with card slot

17. Always Be Ready with a Pocket, Picnic and Beach Blanket

18. For Those Who Love a Mini Electric Toothbrush

19. Keep Your Drinks Hot on Long Haul Flights with this Insulated Stainless Steel Travel Mug (Different Colours Available)

20. Get This Gorgeous Multi-Use Travel, Hiking, Camping Bag Rucksack

21. This Smartest Carry-on suitcase Built-in USB Charger

22. Keep your toiletries organized with this waterproof organizer

23. Stay clean with these laundry sachets 

24. This personalised passport holder and protector  

25. Charge multiple accessories super fast with this portable compact charger

26. Get some shuteye with this contoured sleep mask

27. Avoid the knots and get this nifty cable organizer

28. Sleep anywhere with the ultimate ergonomic neck supporter

29. Pack like a boss with these space-saving packing cubes with shoe bag

Keep your gear organised with these travel cubes in assorted sizes. Buy it here

30. Keep your stuff safe with this TSA approved luggage lock

31. Keep your jewellery organized with this compact jewellery box

32. Never buy cabin luggage again with this durable and lightweight case

33. Stay hydrated with this collapsible water bottle

34. Breathe easy with this USB or battery operated mini humidifier

35. Take your music with you with this wireless and waterproof Bluetooth speaker

36. Get safe drinking water wherever you go with the LifeStraw water filter

37. Get 18 in 1 multi-purpose credit card size pocket tool

38. These cabin-approved leak-proof travel bottles for makeup and cosmetics

39. Stay charged on the go with this mini power bank

40. Take your phone underwater with a universal waterproof case

41. Protect your camera with this anti-theft shoulder strap by PacSafe

This camera strap is essential for supporting heavy cameras like DSLRs and even popular travel cameras such as Mirrorless ones.

Buy it here $26.87

42. Take this lightweight tripod anywhere and wirelessly take pictures and video

43. Protect your gear with this anti-theft shockproof backpack that’s ScanSmart TSA friendly and water resistant

44. Charge your phone and tablet with this USB solar charger

45. Keep your phone clean with this sanitizer and universal phone charger

46. Put your feel up with this compact foot hammock

47. hang up your washing with this travel clothes line.

No more hanging your delicates over hotel room chairs. This pegless washing line stretches up to 2.5metre and can be to affixed to either a  wall or furniture with its metal hooks or suction cups.

48. Get this beautiful waterproof travel and passport wallet

49. This Convenient Water Bottle with Built-in Pill Organizer

Great way to take your medication while on the go! This water bottle can store your medication for each day of the week. The medication holder can also be detached. Holding 23 oz. or 600ml, the bottle cap also doubles as a cup. Ingenious!

50. Keep all your documents in once place with this travel wallet

51. Alert others when in trouble with this safety whistle

52. Stay entertained with movies, TV shows, songs, Kindle e-books, apps and games on Kindle Fire

Buy on Amazon for $79.99

53. Wash your clothes wherever you are with this machine quality wash bag

Buy on Amazon for $42.44

54. This Clever Tank Top  with Secret Pockets

Keep your  passport, cash and credit cards safe with this versatile tank top. Perfect for both warm and cool climates. It can even fit your cell phones and keys.

Buy on Amazon

55. This Anti-Crease Shirt Transporter

Save time on ironing! This Tupperware for shirts and blouses is called the Shirt Shuttler, perfect for those trips when you know you’ll be spending a night out on the town or in a boardroom, or both!

Buy on Amazon for $24.99

56. This Optical Camera Lens for Smartphones and Tablets

57. The only worldwide travel charger and power adapter you’ll ever need  (UK/US/AU/EU/JP) + Dual USB Ports

Buy on Amazon for $25.99

Want more? Check out these 43 Amazing Money-Saving Tips for Smart Travellers

Stay tuned! I’m constantly updating this page as I discover the latest and greatest travel accessories. If you’re going backpacking or long-term travelling, check out my ultimate travel packing list . Got a favourite travel accessory? Share it below! :)

Want more travel tips? Don’t miss these

• How to Travel Cheap: Ultimate Guide to 108 Travel Resources
• 43 Amazing Money-Saving Travel Tips and Hacks
• Travel Insurance for Italy (What You NEED to Know Before You Go)
• 10 Simple Long Haul Flight Tips for Arriving Rested and Relaxed
• 23 Top Travel Essentials: Ultimate Travel Packing List for Backpackers
• What Pack for Winter in Norway: 17 Must-Have Packing Items
• 10 Travel Hacks That’ll Make Your First Solo Trip A Total Breeze
• 20 Clever Ways to Staying Fit While Travelling You Should Try

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Over to you!

What other travel accessories do you recommend? Have you used any of these? Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.

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Michele creates language learning guides and courses for travel. What separates her from other instructors is her ability to explain complex grammar in a no-nonsense, straightforward manner using her unique 80/20 method. Get her free guide 9 reasons you’re not fluent…YET & how to fix it! Planning a trip? Learn the local language with her 80/20 method for less than the cost of eating at a tourist trap restaurant Start learning today!

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Howdy Michele, I love to travel. I’ve read so many posts about travel gadgets, but you are the best one. Your article was beneficial in finding the necessary devices. I personally like an anti-theft shockproof backpack, which is ScanSmart TSA friendly and water-resistant. It is useful for everyone.

Thank you so much, Kim :)

Hello, I have gone through your guide and seems to be interesting though I have one more concern on the WiFi devices. Can you recommend me on the best Pocket Device that will work well on anywhere I travel. I have using AllDayWifi but its very slow on their international data plan. I have been considering RentnConnect though I know very little about it

Hi Collins, have you considered this Skyroam device ? It one of the leaders in the market and very compact.

What about this Trackimo 3G Travel Tracker device this has Light Exposure Sensor – detect/alerts when package or luggage is opened. I am currently using this tracker and i found this very useful to me every time i go travel around the world :)

Excellent addition Helen, thank you :)

A tracking device would be a great addition to this list.

Amazing! This makes traveling easier.

Definitely brilliant ideas worth sharing

This IS such a cool list! I thought I had everything, but then I found out the door travel alarm (never would’ve thought of it)!. And I wonder how good the neck support (#33) is because there were PLENTY of times I could have used something like that on my trips.

Hey Trang, the door alarm is such a great idea especially for those times when you just don’t feel safe :) Is there anything you’d add to the list?

I just carry a small rubber door stop wedge.

WOW! This is one extensive list of all things travel and certainly one that I will be using to give hints to my friends and family round the holiday season. The new ScanSmart backpack along with the waterproof phone case and solar charger are on top of my list. However my top two purchases are going to be the smart suitcase and the backpack which are absolutely brilliant. Thanks for such a cool list.

Hi Michele, There are all great ideas. I have one more suggestion for you. Smart Blanket! I used it when flying to Zurich to see my son and his family. The plane was freezing, and there were no blankets to be had. I was the only one that was warm and cozy for the whole 8 hours. I love mine. Got it on Amazon http://amzn.to/2hTYlOP I paid $49.00 for mine. Think they are having a sale on them now. Hope you like my suggestion.

The door alarm and aeroplane pillow are a great idea to stay comfy and safe! I always take an extension lead when I travel; so that I have more plug sockets in a hotel room, and it also means you don’t need as many adapters when you travel. You also can’t go wrong with baby wipes and small-ish plastic bags in case a seat is wet, a bottle is leaking or you’ve got a mark on your clothes! ✈️?

All brilliant ideas Emily :) Thanks for sharing. I love the baby wipes idea!

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Key factors when choosing equipment for children from 1 to 5 years (Feeding and travelling) RO19 LO2

Subject: Vocational studies

Age range: 14-16

Resource type: Other

Last updated

22 February 2018

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