20+ Must-Haves for Traveling with Babies and Toddlers

While having babies didn’t stop us from traveling and seeing new places, it did shift how we did it. So much fun can be had while traveling with little ones, but there are some extra considerations to mind. One major thing is how you pack. Let’s face it: babies and toddlers require much more gear than we do. Even choosing the most versatile and minimalistic gear has us packing so much more than we were used to. Here are some of the best products we’ve tested (and loved!) in our travels so far!

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TLDR: Here is everything in this blog post in my Amazon Storefront!

Gear

Our Favorite Travel Stroller

We love this travel stroller mainly because it’s so compact! It fits in the overhead compartment in the plane, and we’ve taken it all over the world. It’s also easy to wash, which is essential.

Travel Play Yard

We try to find places with cribs to stay in, but when we can’t, this is a light and compact one. We actually use it at home too, so it gets a lot of use. (Get yours on Amazon here)

Slumberpod

We.Love.The.Slumberpod. It’s pretty pricey but SO worth it - especially when you cannot get separate sleeping areas for you and your babe. It’s almost 100% black-out (I went in there and couldn’t see anything), and you can put your monitor in the pocket (and even a fan!). Plus, it is extremely portable and fits in our suitcase without stealing too much room. (Get yours on Amazon here)

Portable Harness Seat

This has been perfect when no high chairs are available, and it fits right into our diaper bag. It fits on most dining chairs and is also easy to wash. (Get yours on Amazon here)

Car Seat Bags for Airplane Travel

We’ve tested a couple of car seat bags, and these are the best so far! The best feature is that it folds up into its own little bag for when they’re not in use. (Get yours on Amazon here)

Portable Sound Machine

A great thing to have on the go. This one is rechargeable and can hang anywhere. (Get yours on Amazon here)

Travel First Aid Kit

A must, especially when your little one is still a little wobbly on their feet. Features adorable bandaids as a plus and is seriously so well stocked that the adults get to use it too. (Get yours on Amazon here)

Stroller Fan

I haven’t left the house on hot summer days without this fan! It can attach to a lot - the stroller, the crib, the car seat…it’s fantastic. (Get yours on Amazon here)

Baby Carrier

I’ve mentioned some baby carriers before. I love the Solly Wrap because it fits in the diaper bag and is easy to pull out, and this Ergo is great, too - especially on hikes. (Get yours on Amazon here)

Folding Baby Sling Bath

If you still have a little, this is AMAZING. It fits right in your suitcase (seriously, so so small!) and is perfect to use in a bathtub or shower, or even large sink, if they can’t sit up yet. I can’t recommend this enough! (Get yours on Amazon here)

Nice Extras

Mosquito Patch Stickers

GoBe Snack Containers (a toddler favorite!)

Food Pouch Tops (avoid spilling applesauce pouches)

Diaper Bag Refills (if you don’t do cloth on your trip, you need these)

Oogie Bear with Traveling Case

Traveling Bumco Diaper Cream Brush with Case

Toy Safety Straps

Pacifier Case

Toddler Backpack (in case you have a runner, lol)

Stain Remover (I love that these are fabric)

Sanitizing Hand Wipes (alcohol-free)

Hope this list helps! Oh, and be sure to take your kiddos’ favorite books, toys, and snacks too! :) What are your go-to products when traveling with babies and toddlers?



TLDR: Here is everything in this blog post in my Amazon Storefront!

Traveling with Two Under Two: Tips and Tricks for Stress-Free Family Travel

Traveling is a rewarding and enriching experience that opens up a world of discovery and learning for both adults and young ones alike. But what happens when you're planning a trip with not one but two little adventurers under the age of two? Fear not, wanderlust-filled parents, for we've got your back! I never thought traveling would end when we had kids, but I also never imagined how overwhelming it could be - and how fun! We traveled a lot when Baby Z was little, but how we traveled changed a bit once we added Baby E to the mix. Today, I’ll share some invaluable tips and tricks to make your family travel with two under two smooth and enjoyable.

Embrace the Art of Packing

Packing is an art, especially when it involves two tiny humans with their own mini-wardrobes and necessities. Opt for versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched, and don't forget those adorable onesies that are as practical as they are cute. Roll up outfits to save space and use packing cubes to keep items organized (this way, your partner can jump in to help without wondering where things are too). Also, remember that many destinations have stores where you can pick up last-minute essentials, so resist the urge to pack the entire nursery! The good thing is that baby clothes don’t take up a ton of space, so you can feel prepared without taking up too much extra luggage room.

Prioritize Comfort in Accommodation

Choosing the right accommodation can make all the difference. Look for family-friendly options with amenities like kitchenettes, separate sleeping areas, and cribs. An Airbnb or vacation rental might provide the comforts of home while allowing your little ones to nap and sleep peacefully.

Plan Around Their Schedule

Traveling with two under two means you're working around nap times and feeding schedules. Consider booking flights or planning activities during their natural downtime to minimize meltdowns and maximize enjoyment for everyone. It may be a pain, but it will pay off.

Bring a Piece of Home

Familiarity can soothe even the youngest of travelers. Pack a few of their favorite toys, blankets, or bedtime books to create a sense of home wherever you go. These cherished items can provide comfort during unfamiliar moments.

Pack a First Aid Kit and Essentials

Little ones are prone to minor scrapes, bruises, and tummy troubles. Don't leave home without a well-stocked first aid kit containing essentials like band-aids, baby pain reliever, and any prescribed medications. It's also wise to have a supply of diapers, wipes, and a change of clothes readily available for unexpected mishaps.

Use Lightweight Travel Gear

Invest in lightweight, compact travel gear that caters to the needs of your family. A lightweight stroller that's easy to fold and maneuver can be a lifesaver during sightseeing adventures (we LOVE this one that fits in the overhead bin in the plane). Baby carriers can also be a great hands-free option for exploring more rugged terrain.

Related: Must-Have Travel Gear for Babies

Capture the Moments

Time flies, and little ones grow up faster than we'd like. Make sure to capture the special moments of your journey through photographs and videos. These memories will become cherished treasures as your children grow older.

Stay Flexible and Patient

While meticulous planning is essential, flexibility is key when traveling with young children. Plans might change, and routines might be disrupted, and that's okay. Approach each day with patience and a positive attitude, and you'll create lasting memories for your family. And don’t try to cram your itinerary with activities. Choose one or two - you’ll have more fun without the stress of getting to the next thing.

Traveling with two under two might sound like a daunting adventure, but with the right approach and a dash of preparation, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience. By embracing the art of packing, prioritizing comfort, planning around schedules, and staying patient, you'll create cherished memories and instill a love for exploration in your little ones from an early age!

Embracing Rainy Days with Toddlers: Fun Adventures Indoors (Or Out!)

Rainy days might seem challenging when you have little ones running around, but they can also be the perfect opportunity for creating memorable indoor (or outdoor!) adventures. Instead of letting the rain dampen your spirits, why not turn it into a day of cozy bonding and imaginative play? Every day is a chance for a new adventure, rain or shine. 

Crafty Creations 

Rainy days are made for creativity! Gather some art supplies and begin crafting with your little artists. Finger painting, making collages, or even just scribbling with crayons can ignite their imagination and keep them engaged for hours. Plus, you'll end up with some adorable masterpieces to hang on the wall.

Indoor Picnic

Transform your living room into a cozy picnic spot. Lay out a blanket, pack a basket full of toddler-friendly snacks, and have an indoor picnic. Your little ones will love the novelty of eating in a different spot, and you can even throw in some storytelling or sing-along time to make it extra special.

Sensory Play

Sensory play is a fantastic way to engage your children's senses and promote their development. Set up a sensory bin with materials like rice, pasta, or water. Let them explore different textures, shapes, and colors. This hands-on play is not only entertaining but also educational.

Storybook Adventures

Rainy days provide the perfect backdrop for diving into a world of stories. Create a cozy reading corner with pillows and blankets. Choose a stack of their favorite books and let your little ones choose the story they want to hear. You can even add some props or puppets to make the tales come alive!

Dance Party

Turn up the music and have a dance party right in your living room. Toddlers love moving to the beat, and it's a fantastic way to get their energy out while having a blast. Join in on the fun and show off your best dance moves – they'll love seeing you let loose!

Building Forts

Building forts is a classic rainy-day activity that never gets old. Use blankets, pillows, and chairs to create an imaginative hideout. You can have a tea party inside the fort, read stories, or simply have a cozy naptime retreat.

Baking Together

Whipping up a batch of cookies or muffins is a delightful way to spend a rainy afternoon. Let your little ones help with simple tasks like pouring ingredients, stirring, and decorating. The process might get messy, but the memories you create will be priceless.

Puddle Jumping (Indoors!)

Who says you can't go puddle jumping on a rainy day indoors? Lay down towels or a waterproof mat, put on rain boots, and let your kids jump and splash to their heart's content. It's a fun way to enjoy the rainy weather without actually getting wet.

Just Get Outside

Rain doesn’t have to hinder you from going outside! Dress them up warmly and take the littles for a short stroll around the neighborhood or just around the block! Let them play in the puddles, use an umbrella, or put a rain cover on the stroller and watch their amazement as they watch the droplets of water land on it. 

Rainy days don't have to be frustrating when you have littles running around. With some creativity and inspiration, you can turn them into wonderful opportunities for bonding, play, and exploration. Remember, the small moments and imaginative adventures make these days truly special. So, the next time the rain starts to fall, embrace it as a chance to create magical memories with your little ones right in your home. Until next time, stay cozy and keep exploring!

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What do you like to do with your little ones when it’s raining outside?

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Embracing More Eco-Friendly Parenting: The Marvels and Challenges of Cloth Diapering

Today, we're diving into a topic close to the heart of eco-conscious parents everywhere: cloth diapering. This post has been years in the making. We’ve been cloth diapering for almost two years, with the last eight months with two kiddos in cloth. I thought listing some marvels and honest challenges discovered on the journey would be fun. This is not a review of a specific diaper, just what I’ve found to be the pros and cons of cloth diapering until now. More cloth diapering goodness to come!

The Marvels of Cloth Diapering

Being Eco Friendly: One of the most remarkable aspects of cloth diapering is its positive impact on our planet. Choosing reusable cloth diapers over disposables can help reduce landfill waste and minimize your carbon footprint. Imagine the legacy of a planet filled with happy, healthy babies and clean surroundings!

Adorable Aesthetics: Oh, the sheer cuteness! Cloth diapers come in stunning designs, colors, and patterns, making dressing your little one super fun. Even the wet/dry bags you can get are absolutely adorable, and I love browsing them, even though I’m not ready to purchase any more.

Budget-Friendly: Let's talk numbers. While the initial investment might seem daunting, cloth diapering can save you considerable money in the long run. Those reusable gems can be used for subsequent siblings (I can attest to that!), gifted, or even resold, making them a savvy financial choice for growing families - even if not cloth diapering full-time.

Gentle on Baby's Skin: Cloth diapers are typically made from natural fibers like cotton, bamboo, or hemp, which can be gentler on your baby's delicate skin. Say goodbye to harsh chemicals and synthetic materials! This was a huge sell for me - after the saving pennies bit. Reading labels has made me more aware of unnecessary (and often harmful) chemicals used in many products - including diapers.

The Honest Challenges of Cloth Diapering

Laundry: Ah, yes—the daily laundry routine. Cloth diapering requires extra effort in the laundry department - especially if you still have two (or more!) in diapers. Washing, drying, and folding can become integral to your day. Finding the schedule that works best for your family is key. And honestly, diaper laundry has become my favorite lately because it’s become so simple! I should note here that laundry is one of my least favorite chores.

Investment of Time and Effort: Cloth diapering does require more effort than tossing a disposable diaper in the trash. Prepping, changing, and cleaning the diapers take longer, but the environment will thank you for the effort.

Traveling: While cloth diapering at home is a breeze, it can become a tad more complicated when you're on the go. Packing clean diapers, dealing with soiled ones, and ensuring you have the necessary facilities can require some extra planning. Fear not, though—many cloth-diapering parents have mastered the art of travel prep!

Learning Curve: Like any new endeavor, cloth diapering has a learning curve. Figuring out the perfect fit, understanding the various types of cloth diapers, and finding the right absorbency and fit for your baby might take a bit of trial and error. Remember, it's all part of the journey, and you'll soon become a cloth diapering expert.

This eco-friendly parenting choice offers a world of marvels and a few delightful challenges. By embracing the reusable diaper lifestyle, you can positively impact the environment and foster a sense of conscious parenting. Whether you're captivated by the earthy charm of cloth diaper aesthetics or excited about the financial freedom it provides, remember that every diaper change is a small but significant step toward a greener, more sustainable future for your little one. And remember, no one is “locked-in” to cloth diapering! Finding the perfect hybrid situation for you and your family could be the key to small steps in helping the environment, your pocket, and your health!

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What are some wonders and challenges you’ve experienced while cloth diapering? Would you be willing to try it out if you haven’t already?

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Survival Guide: Parenting Two Under One and a Half

Parenting is a crazy journey filled with joy, challenges, and unexpected twists. Life can get quite hectic when you find yourself with two little ones under one and a half years old like we have. Balancing the needs of a toddler and a newborn requires patience, creativity, and a touch of organization. When I found out we were expecting a new addition, I scoured the internet for some tips and asked everyone with two under two for their best tips. If you're navigating this incredible journey along with us, here are some of the best things that can help you thrive:

Embrace Routine, but Be Flexible

Establishing a routine can be a lifesaver when managing two young children. However, it's important to remain adaptable. Babies and toddlers have a knack for throwing curveballs. If your well-thought-out schedule suddenly goes out the window, don't stress. Flexibility will be your greatest asset.

Sync Naptimes

Try to coordinate nap schedules as much as possible. Don’t roll your eyes just yet - it can be possible! When both children are napping at the same time, you'll have a moment to recharge, catch your breath, or even steal a nap yourself. If their naps only overlap for a while it's also a great opportunity for one-on-one time with each child.

Create a Safe Space

Designate a safe play area where both kids can explore without constant supervision. This will allow you to tend to one child's needs while keeping the other entertained and secure. This is especially helpful for feedings and diaper changes.

Involve Your Toddler

Engage your older child in caregiving tasks. It will take some practice, but they can hand you wipes, hold the diaper, or even sing to the baby. Involving them makes them feel important and helps nurture a sense of responsibility and sibling bonding.

Simplify Meals

Cooking elaborate meals might be a challenge with two little ones demanding your attention. Simplify meal prep by opting for quick, nutritious options. One-pot dishes, instant pot meals, pre-cut fruits and veggies, and make-ahead meals will be your allies. I love to fill my freezer with toddler favorites that I can whip out quickly. 

Babywearing

Invest in a quality baby carrier (I use this Solly Wrap and this Ergo carrier). Wearing your younger child allows you to keep them close while having your hands free to attend to your older one. It's a win-win for both your children and your sanity.

Connect with Jesus

Take time to pray and connect with Jesus. It could look like a quick breathed-out prayer, or maybe you find the time for longer times of communion. Don’t feel guilty if it’s the former - Jesus loves to hear from you and will supply you with the strength you need!

Ask for Help

Don't hesitate to lean on friends, family, or a support network. Whether it's getting a hand with house chores, having someone watch the kids while you take a breather (or fold some laundry), or simply offering a listening ear, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you struggle with figuring out what you need help with, make a list and see what you can outsource when others offer you help.

Carve Out Me-Time

Remember, you can't pour from an empty cup. Schedule moments for self-care, even if it's just a few minutes to read, take a bath, or enjoy a hot cup of tea. Taking care of yourself is essential to being your best parent.

Cherish the Moments

Amid the chaos, don't forget to relish the precious moments. Those sweet sibling interactions, the toothless grins, and the heartwarming laughter – these are the memories that will make the challenging times worthwhile.

Parenting two children under one and a half is a unique adventure that will test your patience, resilience, and multitasking skills. Remember that it's okay to have tough days and moments of doubt. You're doing an incredible job, and as your children grow, you'll see the beautiful bond forming between them – a bond that will undoubtedly fill your heart with joy and pride. So take a deep breath, embrace the journey, and know that you're not alone in this incredible adventure called parenthood.

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Are you parenting two under two? What are your best tips for sanity?

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