Maple Alps

toddler

20+ Must-Haves for Traveling with Babies and Toddlers

Travel, Parenthood, Mama BuysAmanda Walter | Maple AlpsComment

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)

Survival Guide: Parenting Two Under One and a Half

Parenthood, MotherhoodAmanda Walter | Maple AlpsComment

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.


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





Some Things We Are Doing to Prepare for Two Under Two

Motherhood, Parenthood, PregnancyAmanda Walter | Maple AlpsComment

It is insane that we are expecting two under two [and a half] in just a few weeks!I just thought I’d pop online and share a few things we’ve been doing to prep for our newest addition - especially since I have no clue when I’ll be picking up the “pen” again, so to say. 



Getting A Routine Under My Belt

As much as possible, I’m trying to get a routine established. Of course, there are times when things don’t work out perfectly, but having morning and evening routines, especially for our toddler, will help with the transition once the new addition comes.  



Buying Extra Baby Gear

After much research, we need to ensure we have some extra essentials before the new baby arrives. We were intentional about the gear we bought with #1; much of what we have can and will be used for many years. We had to decide what to double up on and what to go without purchasing. Here are just a few things we decided to purchase:



Decluttering and Organizing

I spent time organizing clothes and toys. For clothes, I went through them, removed pieces we didn’t need, and noted items we may require according to our season and sizes. For toys, I divided them up into different bins to rotate through. This keeps things organized and keeps things interesting for Baby Z to switch them out every week. I also cleaned and organized the different sizes of cloth diapers and wipes so they are ready to use from the get-go!



Staying Active and Healthy

I’m also preparing physically for two under two. Exercising and staying active is important for preparing for giving birth and recovery. As tough as it is, I’m also trying to remember to drink enough water and eat healthy food (and take my prenatal vitamins!).



Stocking the Freezer and Pantry

I’m sure the first couple of months after having two will be pretty hectic. I am making sure to have healthy staples in the freezer that are easy to warm up or use in recipes - as well as the accompanying ingredients needed that will need to be in the pantry. Favorite snacks and meals for the toddler have also been made and stocked.

I’ve enlisted my mom to help with extra freezer meals while she’s here to help keep us going through the spring. Homemade meals are the best, and I’m looking forward to some of my childhood favorites making their rounds through our meal plan. Maybe I should have my mom guest post some of my favorite recipes sometime! She’s a fantastic vegan cook!



Preparing Our First Baby

Baby Z is still too young to understand that her world will change. Still, we’ve started having my husband do bedtimes and other things so that it won’t be completely foreign once he starts taking over while I’m busy with the newborn. It’s also a great help as the third trimester has me not as mobile with a growing belly!


We are also getting her familiar with those who will be watching her while we are in the hospital, and we will check out some books that have been recommended to us to read to her about having a sibling. Even though she won’t understand, I think adding them to the reading rotation will be a good idea. She’s also been practicing gentle hands with her dolls - adorable. 



Reading Blogs and Asking Friends

I like to envision what life will be like with two under one and a half. Unfortunately, I haven’t found many blogs with an age difference as close as ours, but I have found some helpful information. I’ve also asked some friends about their experiences with close age gaps. Growing up, I always wished I was closer in age to my siblings, so I’m happy about the challenge we are being presented with. It will be challenging, but I’m hoping it will pay off.



Staying Close to Jesus 

I’m clinging to the promise that He will supply me with all I need to make this transition smooth and doable. Only He can help my recovering-perfectionistic self in this new, upcoming season of life, as He has done in all my transitions. 



Do you have any experience with two under two? Or transitioning from one to two in general?