As a mom of two boys under the age of four, I can confidently say that any product or life hack that makes motherhood a little easier is welcomed with open arms. Life as the parent to two toddlers can feel like a constant whirlwind of potty training, commanding my kids not to lick whatever they've just found, and asking them repeatedly "What's the magic word?" Add a family vacation into the mix, and you've got the recipe for an all-hands-on-deck situation that definitely requires whichever helpful reinforcements I can enlist.
Sometimes those reinforcements are a second set of hands to help me wrangle a couple of excited kiddos, but other times it's a tried and true product that's proven to calm a weary young traveler, or clean up a backseat spill like nobody's business. That's why we've teamed up with Babies“R”Us ® to come up with a helpful list of must-have products to help you Be Prepared-ish™ for traveling. Everything here is guaranteed to make the production of traveling with kids go as smoothly as possible. Now all you’ll need to do is pack up, roll out, and be rest assured that on your next family vacay, you’ll be totally covered.
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The Carry-Them-Anywhere Car Seat
Graco 4Ever All-in-One Car Seat, $299, Babies“R”Us ®
Whether your little one is eight pounds or 80, this car seat offers six positions, making it the perfect choice for toting travelers of all ages. Crash-tested and comfortable, it is simple to take along and strap in your car or pop on a plane. You can also trust its harness system, adjustable headrest, and reclining options to keep your happy little campers safe and cozy.
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The Trekking Toddler Booster
Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster, $99.99, Babies“R”Us ®
For bigger kids who are ready to age up to booster-seat status, my word to the wise is to look for a lightweight model. This super-portable option converts to a backless booster, is easily adjusted, and airline approved. Plus, it's so comfy, they'll feel like they're sitting in first class.
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This Nothing-Stopping-You Travel System
Graco Modes Click Connect Travel System Stroller - Downton, $369.99, Babies“R”Us ®
When your family's on the go, you need a stroller that can easily keep up. Not only does this travel system feature 10 riding options and ultra-lightweight design, but it comes to a standing fold with just one hand. Which is a great thing, because very rarely do moms have free hands, am I right?
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The Everything-But-The-Kitchen-Sink Bag
Jeep Places & Spaces Backpack Diaper Bag, $49.99, Babies“R”Us ®
Whoever invented the diaper bag backpack definitely had a wandering spirit, and I for one am so grateful. They're much easier to tote than their over-the-shoulder counterparts, and this lightweight version comes equipped with 12 pockets for every pacifier, lovey, and vacation treasure you come across. Bonus points for an insulated bottle pocket, and wipe-clean fabric!
5
The One-Shot Wipes
Pampers Sensitive Wipes Refill 7x Box, $13.79, Babies“R”Us ®
You can never have too many wipes — especially when you're busy adventuring with your family and may or may not have access to soap and water. For diaper changes as well as hands, faces, spills, and beyond, these super gentle, hypoallergenic wipes will keep your family squeaky clean and smiling all vacation long.
6
The Comfy Cozy Cat Pillow
BenBat Travel Friends Head/Neck Support - Cat, $17.99, Babies“R”Us ®
A little extra comfort goes a long way when you're far from home. Whether your little one is in the car seat, the stroller, or on a train or plane, this cozy little headrest stabilizes their neck and helps keep them safe and sound. And double-sided fabric options let them choose from plush and soft on one side, to cool and light on the other.
7
The Real-Life Port-O-Potty
OXO Tot 2-in-1 Go Potty, $19.99, Babies“R”Us ®
When they've gotta go, they've gotta go now. Prevent on-the-go accidents with this lifesaver, which easily works as a potty on its own, or a seat for a toilet. Absorbent, disposable bags make bathroom breaks possible no matter where you happen to be when the urge strikes.
8
This Game-Changer Changing Station
Skip Hop Pronto Signature Changing Station - Heather Gray, $29.99, Babies“R”Us ®
At home, you're all set up and prepared for your little one's worst changing scenarios. But convenient diaper changes are a bit of an oxymoron on vacation, since you might not be near a restroom, or it may not have a changing table. This portable changing station puts you in charge of creating a safe space for taking care of your kid.
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The Ultra-Convenient Carrier
Ergobaby 360 All Carry Positions Ergonomic Baby Carrier - Dewy Grey, $159.99, Babies“R”Us ®
Let's face it: No matter how many strollers or backpacks or alternative methods of transportation you offer your child, chances are, they're going to want to be held. This carrier is your best bet for the most comfortable holding option for you and them. It's easily adjusted, lightweight, and breathable. Plus, it holds little ones from seven to 45 pounds.
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This Brilliant Go-Anywhere Toddler Bed
The Shrunks Toddler Travel Bed, $69.99, Babies“R”Us ®
Yes, this is an air mattress designed for toddlers, and yes, it's totally genius. It easily inflates and deflates for your packing convenience, and the inner mattress is designed to fit standard sized crib sheets.
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A Portable, Mess-Free Drawing Station
Imaginarium Travel Magnetic Drawing Board, $4.99, Babies“R”Us ®
Not only is this thing affordable enough to buy one for every member of your crew, it's also not going to leave any messes on the floor or disappear into cracks in the car seat. I'll take two, thanks.
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This post is sponsored by Babies“R”Us ®.
