Traveling with kids is not for the weak! Whether it’s a road trip, a flight, or even just a weekend getaway, I’ve learned that having the right essentials makes all the difference between a fun trip and one where you want to turn the car around 30 minutes in. I’m a stay-at-home mom of two little ones, and I’ve had my fair share of chaotic, snack-filled, “are we there yet?!” moments.
So, after a few (okay, many) lessons learned the hard way, I’ve put together a list of my absolute favorite Amazon finds that make traveling with kids so much easier. From keeping them comfortable to keeping me sane, these are my must-haves. Let’s get into it!
1. Pamo Babe Travel Crib & Playpen
This thing is a lifesaver. It doubles as a travel crib and a playpen, so whether we’re at a hotel, Grandma’s house, or an Airbnb, I know my little one has a safe space to sleep and play. It’s super lightweight and easy to set up, which is a must when you’re already juggling kids and luggage.
2. Wonderfold Wagon
If you’re hitting the beach, the zoo, or a theme park, this wagon is it. My kids love riding in it, and I love that it carries all of our stuff. No more juggling snacks, toys, and a toddler on my hip—just toss it all in the wagon and go. Bonus: it folds up easily, so it doesn’t take up too much space in the trunk.
3. Lightweight Travel Stroller
A good travel stroller is non-negotiable and this is THE ONE! This one is compact, easy to maneuver, and folds up small enough to fit in overhead bins if you’re flying. Perfect for when those little legs get tired (because you know they will).
4. Lightweight Travel Double Stroller
If you’ve got two littles, do yourself a favor and get a double stroller that won’t have you struggling. This one is lightweight, easy to push, and keeps both kids happy and contained. A must for airport strolls and long sightseeing days.
5. Portable Travel Potty
If your kid is potty training (or even newly potty trained), this travel potty is a game changer. No more panicking when there’s no bathroom nearby. I keep this in the car at all times because when they gotta go, they gotta go.
6. Inflatable Airplane Footrest
If you’re flying, this little gadget turns your kid’s seat into a mini bed. It fills the gap between the seat and the tray table, so they can stretch out and sleep comfortably instead of kicking the seat in front of them the whole flight.
7. Ride-on Luggage
This is such a lifesaver for airports, hotels, and anywhere else little legs get tired. It doubles as a suitcase and a fun ride-on toy, so instead of whining about walking, my kid actually wants to hop on and zoom through the airport or hotel hallways. Plus, it keeps all their travel essentials in one spot—win-win!
8. Travel Snack Container
Because snacks are life when you’re traveling with kids. These containers keep everything organized, prevent spills, and make it easy to hand out snacks without a huge mess in the backseat.
9. Spill-Proof Water Bottle
Hydration is key, but so is avoiding spills all over the car or plane seat. I swear by this leak-proof water bottle that my kids can actually use without dumping water all over themselves.
10. Car Seat Activity Tray
Okay, so this activity tray is a no-brainer when it comes to long car rides AND even perfect for airplanes! Your kids will be able to color, draw, eat snacks, and everything else to keep themselves entertained. I know that I say that everything is a game-changer, but this literally is!
11. Kids’ Travel Neck Pillows
You know how kids can fall asleep in the most uncomfortable positions? This super comfy travel pillow saves them (and you) from the inevitable neck cramp meltdown mid-trip.
12. Car Headrest Tablet Holder
If you’re bringing a tablet, go ahead and grab this holder that attaches to the headrest of the car seat. It saves their arms from getting tired, prevents it from constantly falling on the floor, and gives you some peace and quiet for at least 30 minutes.
13. Packing Cubes for Kids’ Clothes
Packing cubes keep everything organized, and trust me—you want to be organized when you’re digging through a suitcase looking for that one pair of pajamas they must have.
14. Portable Sound Machine
If your little one sleeps with white noise at home, bring a travel sound machine. It drowns out unfamiliar noises in hotels or airplanes and helps them sleep so much better.
15. Kid-Friendly First Aid Kit
Because somebody is going to fall, get a scrape, or catch the sniffles. A mini first aid kit with band-aids, fever meds, and wipes is a must-have in my diaper bag when we travel.
16. Disposable Placemats
Eating out with little kids can get messy fast. These stick-on disposable placemats keep their food off the questionable restaurant table and make cleanup a breeze. Just peel it up and toss it when they’re done.
Traveling with kids can be a lot, but having the right essentials makes it so much smoother. These Amazon finds have saved me time, energy, and a whole lot of stress on our trips. Whether you’re gearing up for a road trip or hopping on a plane, grab a few of these and thank me later!
What are your must-have travel essentials for kids? Drop them in the comments—I’m always looking for new mom hacks!
