Traveling now is a lot different than when my husband and I were newly-married and traveling on our own. Whereas before we could get by with a large luggage bag for both of our items for a short stay, as parents packing for trips includes carrying items for safe sleep, her entertainment, her nourishment and so much more. Although we don’t have any plans currently solidified for the summer, any place we’ve talked about potentially visiting even if just for a couple of days, we’re looking at the photographs online to try to determine how toddler-friendly it is and whether they allow for children to stay there or not (Marshall Slocum Inn for example, no longer does). However, the travel bug is certainly biting again and if we’re able to afford to do so this year, we’ve talked about maybe taking a short vacation sometime this year just to get out of the city, which means that if we do, we have to revisit our list of items that we’ll need to make sure we have for a seamless travel experience as a family.
In today’s post, I wanted to share some of the items we’ve either purchased or are planning to purchase ahead of any potential trips we take this summer that may be useful for you as well.
Toddler-Friendly Travel Gear for Summer Adventures
FOR ROAD TRIPS:
One of our favorite things to do, even when we aren’t traveling anywhere in particular is to go on drives, exploring our figurative backyard. Our daughter has grown to really enjoy our car rides too and will often look out the window, pointing out different things and colors. These are items that as she gets older, will become super helpful in making sure that she has a fun and comfortable time during the longer car rides and road trips.
FOR THE HOTEL ROOM:
From what we’ve seen, most hotels aren’t exactly baby or toddler-proofed. There are some, especially those advertised as being family-friendly, but there have been some hotels we’ve absolutely recognized that we can’t stay at for a while. While there isn’t much toddler or baby proofing you can do (such as nailing furniture to the walls), there are some things you can do or purchase to make for a safer and enjoyable stay! Not included in this list are the things we use to clean our hotel room before we unpack.
FOR BATH TIME:
Bath time can be tricky at hotels simply because there aren’t always tubs for baths. However, there’s a lot of portable tub options and options to still get bath time in while away from home!
WHEN WE’RE OUT AND ABOUT AND WALKING A LOT:
Whether we’re headed to a museum or the zoo, there’s often a lot of walking involved when going on vacation. These are some of the things that have been helpful for us or that we’re considering getting now that she’s more active and loves walking further distances than before. Some of the items are also helpful when we’re eating lunch out at a restaurant as well.
FOR BEACH DAY:
We’re looking forward to possibly taking a couple of day trips to the beach this summer, weather and time permitting. Here’s a few items we’re thinking of purchasing to bring with us
Those are some of our favorite and recent travel finds when traveling with little children. What are some of your favorite finds or items that you would recommend?
