Traveling with toddlers often conjures images of overstuffed bags, cumbersome strollers, and the constant juggle of snacks, toys, and entertainment to keep little ones content. However, with the right approach and some clever hacks, it’s entirely possible to streamline your travel experience. We've curated a list of products that have helped us travel with toddlers while ensuring their safety and without all the bulk!
Let's face it, strollers are the easiest way to get toddlers around under constraints of time and distance. Here's our top lightweight and compact strollers for air travel:
GB Pockit Lightweight Stroller
Known for its ultra-compact fold, this stroller is a favorite among traveling families. It fits easily in overhead compartments and offers a lightweight design without compromising on durability.
Babyzen YOYO2 Stroller
This stroller combines ease of folding with a smooth ride, making it perfect for airport navigation and onboard storage. Its compact size is complemented by comfort and style.
Summer Infant 3D Lite Convenience Stroller
Offering a great balance of features and portability, this stroller includes a carry strap and a compact fold, ideal for travel without breaking the bank.
When the stroller becomes a bit too much and you want summer other solutions we suggest swapping it out with these alternatives:
Ride-On Carry-On Luggage for Toddlers
Products like the JetKids by Stokke BedBox transform from a suitcase to a bed or leg rest on the plane, providing a versatile travel solution.
Luggage Scooters
The ZincFlyte Kids’ Luggage Scooter makes getting through the airport fun and fast, with a built-in scooter that folds away when not in use.
Kid’s Ride-On Suitcase
The Trunki suitcase allows toddlers to ride through the airport with ease, doubling as a fun toy and a practical piece of luggage for their belongings.
Okay, great you've figured out how you get through the airport, but what about the airplane ride and the cars on the other side? Here's our hacks for traveling by car and plane:
Ride Safer Travel Vest
An innovative alternative to traditional car seats, the Ride Safer Travel Vest is designed to provide safety and comfort for children during car rides or while flying. Lightweight and easy to pack, it’s an ideal choice for families on the go.
WAYB Pico Forward-Facing Car Seat
Offers an ultra-portable design that’s perfect for travel. Made from aerospace-grade aluminum, it’s lightweight yet sturdy, providing a safe, comfortable seat for toddlers during travel.
Doona Infant Car Seat and Stroller
An innovative 2-in-1 design that is ideal for travel, combining the safety of a car seat with the convenience of a stroller.
mifold Grab-and-Go Booster
This compact and portable booster seat is ten times smaller than a traditional booster, yet just as safe. It’s designed for easy transport in backpacks or luggage, making it perfect for travel or quick changes between different vehicles.
Plane Safety Harness
The CARES Safety Harness is an FAA-approved device that turns an airplane seat into a safe travel solution for toddlers. It is designed to provide a more secure fit for small children than a standard airplane seat belt, which is generally tailored for adult passengers. It ensures that the child is restrained safely across the chest and lap, reducing the risk of slipping or injury during turbulence or sudden movements.
Now that you've figured out the important big items, don't forget the small things that keep them busy on the flight or in the car. Try these hacks:
Child-Friendly Tablets
A tablet pre-loaded with age-appropriate apps, games, and videos can be a lifesaver. Look for durable, child-friendly tablets with robust parental controls, such as the Amazon Fire Kids Edition or the LeapFrog LeapPad Academy. These devices are designed to withstand the rigors of travel and provide educational and fun content tailored to young minds.
Kid-Safe Headphones
Pairing a tablet with a set of kid-safe headphones, like the Puro Sound Labs BT2200 or the LilGadgets Connect+, ensures your child can enjoy their entertainment without disturbing fellow passengers. These headphones come with volume-limiting features to protect young ears and are sized to fit children comfortably.
Cling-On Stickers
Cling-on stickers are a simple, mess-free way to keep toddlers engaged. They can stick them on windows or tray tables and easily reposition them without leaving any residue. Brands like Melissa & Doug offer reusable sticker pads with themes ranging from vehicles and habitats to animals, providing endless entertainment.
Crayola Color Wonder Line
The Crayola Color Wonder line is perfect for mess-free creativity. The special markers only show up on the special Color Wonder paper, so you don’t have to worry about marks on airplane seats, walls, or clothing. They come in a variety of themes and include coloring books and blank pads, allowing toddlers to draw and color to their heart’s content.
The key to smooth air travel with toddlers lies in careful planning and utilizing smart travel hacks. Choosing lightweight and compact gear, ensuring safety with appropriate devices, and keeping toddlers entertained with engaging, mess-free activities are essential strategies. These approaches help minimize stress and maximize enjoyment for both parents and children, transforming the journey into a hassle-free and enjoyable experience for the entire family.
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