This site contains affiliate links. View the disclosure for more information.
Traveling with toddlers can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. From keeping them entertained to ensuring their safety and comfort, there’s a lot to consider when planning a trip with little ones. To make your journey smoother and more enjoyable, I’ve compiled a list of the 13 best travel essentials for toddlers that will help you navigate any adventure with ease.
This post is all about toddler travel essentials.
1. Slumberpod
The Slumberpod is portable privacy pod that creates a cozy sleep environment for your toddler, perfect for naps or bedtime while traveling. It is absolutely AMAZING for travel, and great to fit over a travel crib. If you have a toddler that is a bit older and has grown out of the travel crib, Slumberpod also has a travel air mattress specifically designed to fit under the Slumberpod tent.
2. Travel Crib or Travel Air Mattress
Travel cribs are a must-have toddler travel essential, and there are so many great options out there. We personally own the 4Moms Portable Playard and love it for my son. Sometimes, depending on where you’re traveling, you can also rent travel cribs from either the hotel directly or from a local rental agency which is another great option. For older toddlers, as mentioned earlier, toddler air mattresses are another great option. The SlumberTot toddler travel air mattress is specifically designed to fit under the Slumberpod which is great for a little added privacy while you’re on a trip with your little one.
3. Portable Booster Seat
A portable booster seat is especially helpful if you’re staying at a rental house, or even for having snacks on the beach! Amazon has some great options for packable portable booster seats.
4. Headphones
Headphones are a must for traveling with toddlers on a plane, or even traveling with toddlers in a car as well. It gives them a little sense of independence, and saves your sanity from having to listen to Baby Shark a million times on your trip, ha! This set from Amazon has fantastic reviews.
5. Portable Drying Rack for Cups
Keep your toddler’s cups and bottles clean and dry while on the go with a few of these travel drying racks. These would also be great for drying bottles if you have a little one still on a bottle as well!
6. Travel Stroller
A lightweight and compact stroller that makes navigating airports, theme parks, and city streets a breeze. Below are two great options for a luxury and more affordable travel stroller.
7. Backpack
Backpacks are great for carrying snacks, diapers, wipes, toys, and other necessities while keeping your hands free. I personally really like options with lots of different pockets for organizing all of your toddler travel essentials. Freshly Picked is a fantastic option for backpack brands, and this one even has an insulated pocket for keeping your little one’s drink cold!
8. Travel-Friendly Activities
Keep boredom at bay with engaging activities that are easy to pack and entertain your toddler during downtime. Busy boards have become super popular lately, and for good reason – this one in particular keeps my little one occupied for a good amount of time. A few other great options are reusable sticker books, these Water Wow! reusable water coloring books, and these suction toys are great to stick on the window of an airplane or car
9. Sound Machine
Create a soothing sleep environment for your toddler, whether you’re staying in a noisy hotel or unfamiliar surroundings. This travel sound machine from Amazon is the best for anytime you’re on-the-go or traveling with your toddler.
10. First Aid Kit
Be prepared for any minor bumps, bruises, or scrapes that may occur while on your travels. The PreparaKit Travel First Aid Kit has everything you may need while you’re traveling with your toddler.
11. Disinfecting Wipes
Keep surfaces clean and germ-free, especially when traveling during flu season or in high-traffic areas. I always always always keep disinfecting wipes on me – these Antibacterial Hand Wipes from Boogie Wipes are the best and are alcohol-free as well!
12. Travel Disposable Placemats
Protect your toddler from germs and messes while dining out with convenient disposable placemats. These are a couple great options that stick to tables really well, and are fun for the littles to learn their animals and ABC’s!
13. Snack Container
Keep your toddler fueled and happy with their favorite snacks readily available wherever you go. This snack container doubles as a fun toy, and promotes independence as your little one will be able to push the button to choose which snack they’re wanting to have.
By packing these travel essentials for toddlers, you’ll be well-equipped to handle whatever adventures come your way while ensuring your little one stays comfortable, entertained, and safe throughout your journey. Happy travels!
This post was all about toddler travel essentials.
