Going anywhere with an infant can feel like a military exercise.
First, if traveling by car, having a current and reliable car seat is essential, but with so many options now on the market, it can be an overwhelming space to navigate.
However, this is probably one of the most important travel items you will purchase.
Since proper installation is key, Josh Dilts, Chicco’s child passenger safety technician, advises looking for features to make it easier.
“Some key features that help tremendously include leveling indicators, which help ensure the seat and its base are installed at the proper angle, and an advanced LATCH [Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children] or seat-belt locking system that provides a confident install.”
Your local fire department will often have a technician available to review your setup.
Once you have the basics in place, look out for best buys that can become sanity savers. Victoria Nosal, a first-time parent of an 11-month-old baby girl, said the Tushbaby Hip Carrier is one.
“My husband used it while traveling, and she was able to sleep comfortably on him while on the plane,” Nosal said. “It was also helpful for getting through security when we had to take her out of the seat.”
With these tips and some guidance from the experts, we’ve assembled a variety of gadgets, gear and accessories designed to meet the demands of getting from A to B with children, so you can worry less and (try to) enjoy the ride.
It’s foldable and lightweight, suitable for any location: The Dream on Me Karley Bassinet will be a parent’s greatest asset in time of need. $39 at Amazon.com
Having a portable diaper-changing mat is tip No. 1 in the new-parent survival guide. Game Changer includes zipper and mesh pockets and side loop for stroller. $50 at ScoutBags.com
BlendJet 2 is a lightweight, portable USB-rechargeable device that will puree your baby’s next meal in a matter of seconds. $49.95 at BlendJet.com
This ultimate multitasker hip carrier can hold up to 45 pounds and has built-in lumbar support and a memory foam-lined seat. It has five storage pockets, a bottle holder and a seal of approval from several leading specialists. $85 at TushBaby.com
Get equipped to handle just about any challenge that arises with the Ultimate Baby kit, from gas passers to snot suckers. Yep, it’s all included. $100 at Frida.com
Every parent needs the award-winning Slumber Travel Crib and Play Yard. It assembles quickly to become a newborn bassinet or toddler play space, then folds away nicely into a compact carrier for easy travel. $299 at BabyList.com
For those journeys when you need any extra hand, Chicco’s water-resistant car seat travel bag on wheels, with rubberized base and built-in backpack straps, will ease the burden. $99.99 at ChiccoUSA.com
A portable breast pump that is quiet, easily transportable and technologically advanced will become your best friend. $499 at Babyation.com
The Dutch masters behind this super lightweight, airplane-friendly and easy to fold Aer+ stroller clearly understand perfection. $449 at Joolz.com