The right gear will not make a trip perfect, but the wrong gear can make every day harder. A stroller that will not fold at the gate, a car seat that does not fit the rental car, or a carrier that hurts after an hour: these are the small problems that wear parents down. The good news is that you only need a handful of items, and most of them get used on every trip.
Here is the family travel gear we think is worth owning, and what to look for in each.
Family Travel Gear Checklist
| Item | Best For Ages | Why It Helps |
|---|---|---|
| Travel stroller | 0 to 4 | Light, folds small, fits overhead bins on some flights |
| Baby carrier | 0 to 3 | Hands free in airports, crowds and on trails |
| Travel car seat | 0 to 7 | Safer taxis and rental cars, can be used on planes |
| CARES harness | About 1 to 4 | Safer flights for toddlers without carrying a car seat |
| Portable crib | 0 to 3 | Familiar, safe sleep space anywhere |
| Packing cubes | All | Each child’s clothes in one place |
| Kids’ headphones | 2 and up | Volume-limited for young ears |
| Portable white noise machine | 0 and up | Better naps in new places |
How to Choose a Travel Stroller
Your everyday stroller is probably too big for travel. A good travel stroller should:
- Weigh around 15 pounds or less
- Fold with one hand while you hold a child
- Fold small enough to gate check easily, or fit in some overhead bins
- Have a canopy and a seat that reclines for naps
- Include a carry strap or a travel bag
Umbrella stroller or travel stroller?
An umbrella stroller is very light, cheap and folds into a long, thin shape. It works for short trips and older toddlers, but usually has little recline and small wheels. A compact travel stroller costs more but folds smaller, reclines further and handles uneven sidewalks better. For long trips or kids who still nap in the stroller, a travel stroller is worth it.
When can a baby sit in a stroller?
Babies are usually ready for an upright stroller seat at around six months, once they have good head and neck control. Before that, use a stroller that reclines flat, has a bassinet attachment, or works with an infant car seat.
Baby Carriers
A carrier is often more useful than a stroller in airports, on cobblestone streets and on hiking trails. Soft structured carriers suit most families. Look for good lumbar support, a seat that supports your baby’s hips, and fabric that breathes in warm climates.
Car Seats for Travel
If you plan to use taxis or rent a car, bring a car seat or book one in advance. Rental company seats are not always available or clean. A light convertible seat is easier to carry through airports. If you want to use it on the plane, check for the label that says it is certified for motor vehicles and aircraft. Our guide to flying with a baby or toddler explains how to use one on board.
Good to have, not essential: a car seat travel bag with wheels or straps turns a bulky seat into something you can wheel through the airport like a suitcase.
Sleep Gear
Many hotels offer cribs, but quality varies and they can run out. A light pop-up travel crib or tent gives babies and toddlers a familiar place to sleep. Add a portable white noise machine and blackout window covers for better naps in bright hotel rooms.
Organization and Comfort
- Packing cubes: one color per child so everyone can find their clothes.
- A good day bag: a backpack-style diaper bag keeps your hands free.
- Reusable water bottles and snack containers for each child.
- A travel potty seat for kids who are newly potty trained.
- A small first aid kit with children’s medicine.
Gear for Older Kids
Older kids need less equipment, but a few items help: their own small backpack or rolling suitcase, headphones, a refillable water bottle and a booster seat if they still need one in cars. Let them pack and carry their own entertainment.
What to Rent Instead of Bringing
In many popular destinations, baby gear rental companies deliver cribs, strollers, high chairs and beach gear to your hotel or rental. This can be easier than flying with bulky items, especially for longer stays.
Family Travel Gear Questions
Do you need a travel stroller?
If your regular stroller is heavy or bulky, yes. A compact stroller makes airports, public transport and small hotel rooms much easier.
Should I bring a car seat on vacation?
If you will be in cars, yes. Bringing your own seat means you know it fits your child and has not been damaged.
What gear is worth buying first?
A travel stroller and a comfortable carrier are the two items most families use on every trip.
For a full list of what to bring, see our family vacation packing checklist.
