# The Guide to Packing Light with Kids A guide for the key items we use to travel light with two kids! We traveled internationally for 15 months straight with our toddler, and now for 2 months with a second baby, without ever checking a bag. I swear - it's possible! ## Recommendations (18) ### Lightweight Strollers (3) **Patagonia** **Lightweight Strollers** **Ultralight Black Hole® Mini Hip Pack 1L** This tough, lightweight 1-liter hip pack carries the bare essentials and stows into its own pocket when not in use. Made with 100% recycled body fabric, lining and webbing. The adjustable strap extends from 8" to 36". Made in a Fair Trade Certified™ factory. [Buy from Patagonia](https://www.patagonia.com/product/ultralight-black-hole-mini-hip-pack-1-liter/196924363793.html?s_kwcid=17928&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=BB_Ecomm_Pmax_ALL_EQT_EquipmentPositioningTest&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwoJa2BhBPEiwA0l0ImEfC2JEEGgCVrSVb2DOOqVfYfTt4H3IRn5pMGHLEEh8Vohy5Urh0VxoC36IQAvD_BwE) 1 recommendation *Jocey Newman*: "Can't live without. This is our pack-light alternative to a diaper bag! It's big enough to carry 2 diapers, a small Desitin, and a pack of wipes. If we really squeeze, we can even get a spare onesie in there too." **Guava Family** **Lightweight Strollers** **Guava Lotus Travel Crib with Lightweight Backpack Design** $229.95 [Buy from Amazon](https://amzn.to/3jCyCYc) 1 recommendation *Jocey Newman*: "Worked for us. We love the Lotus for road trips and camping with our toddler! When traveling by plane, we almost always try to ditch it and rent or borrow upon arrival." **Sea to Summit** **Lightweight Strollers** **Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Ultralight Day Pack** $44.48 [Buy from Amazon](https://amzn.to/3AqMQXH) 1 recommendation *Jocey Newman*: "Can't live without. This bag packs down to the size of a plum. We always have it on hand for the inevitable moment where all the kid stuff feels like it's overflowing from our luggage. Great for day trips too." ### Bodysuits (1) **FIrst Peak** **Bodysuits** **The Adventure Bodysuit** [Buy from First Peak](https://www.firstpeak.co/products/the-bodysuit) 1 recommendation *Jocey Newman*: "Can't live without. Full disclosure: I'm the founder of First Peak, so my kids LIVE in these clothes. That said, they're truly purpose-built for traveling light. They're made in the US from all natural fibers, that dry fast and resist odors and stains. They're perfect for handling plane spills or un-planned splash pads :)" ### Bassinets & Bedside Sleepers (1) **SlumberPod** **Bassinets & Bedside Sleepers** **SlumberPod Portable Privacy Pod Blackout Canopy Sleeping Space** $179.99 [Buy from Amazon](https://amzn.to/3jRx0tB) 1 recommendation *Jocey Newman*: "Worked for us. Here's another item that we don't always travel with, but that we adore for more local trips and for camping. Our camping setup: we put a slumberpod INSIDE our large tent, so our baby has their own little bubble to rest in. We also love the slumberpod for visiting friends and family, when we know we'll be room-sharing." ### Swimwear (1) **Green Sprouts** **Swimwear** **i play. Baby Girls' Brim Hat | All-Day UPF 50+ Sun Protection for Head, Neck, & Eyes** $15.99 All-day sun protection for head, neck, and eyes—Our full-coverage, wide brim sun hat keeps baby covered all-day, reducing sunscreen application in those areas. UPF 50+ sun protection—Our UPF 50+ hats offer the highest sun protection available, blocking 97.5%-99+% of harmful UV rays. Lightweight, quick-dry material keeps baby comfortable—Our baby sun protection hats are made from soft, microfiber material with a wicking liner to pull moisture away from skin to keep baby cool. Wicking liner for comfort—Wicking material pulls moisture away from skin to keep baby cool and comfortable. Adjustable toggle to grow with baby—Adjust for a custom fit and to grow with baby for longer use. [Buy from Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/play-Baby-Protection-White-Months/dp/B003917UJG/ref=sr_1_4?adgrpid=154635615346&hvadid=678748176672&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9060967&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=b&hvrand=13509647009498878480&hvtargid=kwd-441280710197&hydadcr=11496_13475634&keywords=baby+hats+6-12+months+summer&qid=1707300780&sr=8-4&tag=spots05d-20&linkCode=ogi&th=1&psc=1) 1 recommendation *Jocey Newman*: "Worked for us. We love this for our baby. It stays on well while she's in the carrier or crawling around, and it's lightweight and packs small!" ### Sound Machines & Soothers (1) **Marpac** **Sound Machines & Soothers** **Yogasleep Rohm Portable White Noise Machine for Travel** $19.99 [Buy from Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/Marpac-White-Noise-Machine-Portable/dp/B01D50RZQI/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?crid=20GD8O0AEY7SW&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.3hhexQ0aH3SwYUzTwPbGOq5mWoEpGGT0od2J83PlvXo17JPcLm6bV6WSqSVgEl2PZ_lG4lS2I383dG6AIcOaIXyqM1D7XZIAkBD8qLfHX77Ga9DriMzEct_gSKETuxiJOJE6pMnnb-362HC_d6FlUlZP8FkyiYFB09DdKNocdD1KYzJzVzoyG6VytGBFFCWTal7eK9JME4k0AM3iwpzRk0k9fDLXrPu39Azt93-qFBdFGLAgp1dEUW1tI0v0_ERg1fRjct24yW4kX6-O5iurki_X0rBfhbusD833Y2oWFEI.c0NVPhsAlE1dYhNSVeoV31_V-15DF_QwJ68XZfltXm4&dib_tag=se&keywords=yogasleep+rohm&qid=1710531638&sprefix=yogasleep+rohm%2Caps%2C111&sr=8-2-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1&tag=spots05d-20&linkCode=ogi&th=1) 1 recommendation *Jocey Newman*: "Worked for us. We have one for each child. This one is nice because you can tie it to the carseat for naps on the go." ### Shoes & Booties (1) **Native** **Shoes & Booties** **Native Shoes, Jefferson Child, Kids Lightweight Sneaker** $49.99 ULTRALIGHT & DURABLE: This slip-on style is super lightweight, ultra-comfortable and made for play; The EVA upper is flexible and features all-over perforations so their feet can breathe. EASY TO CLEAN: The Jefferson is odor-resistant and super easy to clean; Simply hand wash when needed to keep them looking fresh. FITS NARROW: If their foot is wide, we recommend going up a size; If their foot is narrow to average width, they can wear their true size. MADE FOR ALL: Happy, colorful, carefree and fun; The Jefferson Kids comes in an infinite assortment of colors and treatments so they can find a shade that suits them. LIVE LIGHTLY: Through innovation, sustainability, originality and lightness, we strive to simplify our day, beautify our environment and lighten our carbon footprint on the world. [Buy from Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/Native-Jefferson-Glitter-Little-Powder/dp/B07VR5ZWB2/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=native+shoes&qid=1707521009&sr=8-1&tag=spots05d-20&linkCode=ogi&th=1&psc=1) 1 recommendation *Jocey Newman*: "Can't live without. These are the only shoes my 3-year-old wears. He's hiked mountains and walked/sprinted countless miles in them, and he almost always does it without socks. They're super comfortable and waterproof, and totally hassle-free." ### Strollers (1) **Babyzen** **Strollers** **Babyzen YOYO2 Stroller** $336.75 Polyester EASY TO USE - YOYO2 is one of the most lightweight, compact, full-feature strollers available. Designed for every situation, every day, you can steer with one hand, carry it on your shoulder & store essentials in the zippered back pocket. TAKE IT EVERYWHERE - It's never been easier to meet up with friends, catch a cab, or hop onto the subway. The YOYO2 not only folds & unfolds with one hand, it’s so compact that you can store it in the overhead bin of a plane. GROWS WITH YOUR CHILD - Now you only need one stroller! Our all-in-one frame accommodates your growing child, from newborn to toddler (up to 48.5 lbs), with a comfortable seat cushion, a reclining backrest & a secure 5-point harness. CUSTOMIZABLE - Choose from nine trendy colors and lots of accessories to suit your needs, like the YOYO board, YOYO bag, YOYO cup holder, YOYO footmuff, YOYO legrest, YOYO parasol, YOYO travel bag, and YOYO mosquito net. WHAT’S INCLUDED - Your YOYO2 Stroller includes a frame, 5-point harness, multi-position reclining backrest, canopy extensions, shoulder strap, protective storage bag & the 6+ Color Pack, which includes the seat cushion & matching canopy. [Buy from Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/Babyzen-YOYO2-Stroller-Black-Canopy/dp/B0856NX5D7/ref=sr_1_3?crid=1MDVVL81NI5PE&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.SsocE4rwGRknY4iJC6-jHDLyxAqFCNE8IBvEqjgylXPf1iXK_z44x0DMuIGaXv9An18ncPNaetcTOl7-QBhWM5neu0K3Nkw5UMEXZU4ULgL21PUInhQXpHltkFnRCGupmKSwx72wrKO6qC8O_7aMBG9A4kDwECGRiXzGl05Hk5wF08jKzRb16UsUT6cFYn0LXcbdpBkYx5Le-2Lx2jZgRG2H7P0LmYd1dpQ-kClPAIc.nfZcPRPlYDvoFcy4S0DBqLtV1LwXZP5fvG-emXGo-AU&dib_tag=se&keywords=babyzen%2Byoyo2%2Bstroller&qid=1710532242&sprefix=babyzen%2Byoyo2%2Bstroller%2Caps%2C115&sr=8-3&ufe=app_do%3Aamzn1.fos.c3015c4a-46bb-44b9-81a4-dc28e6d374b3&th=1&tag=spots05d-20&linkCode=ogi&psc=1) 1 recommendation *Jocey Newman*: "Can't live without. In my opinion, the best stroller for travel. Small enough to fit in the overhead bin (so no need to gate check!), and recognized by nearly all major airlines." ### Carriers (1) **Ergobaby** **Carriers** **Ergobaby Omni 360 All-Position Baby Carrier** $179.00 BEST SELLING & TOP RATED: The Omni Breeze baby carrier is rated #1 in airflow: Designed with SoftFlex Mesh to maximize airflow and keep you and baby cool and dry all day. This carrier is the perfect accessory for travel, take it on an outdoor adventure or a relaxing getaway, comfort is guaranteed. THE CARRIER THAT DOES IT ALL: Omni Breeze Baby Carrier grows with your baby from newborn to toddler (~0-48 Months; 7-45lbs), a reliable essential for your baby at all stages of growth. ALL CARRY POSITIONS: This carrier is incredibly versatile, position it from any angle with ease - position baby outward or inward from the front, switch it to your back as a backpack style baby carrier, or even to your side as a hip seat. SUPPORT IN ALL THE RIGHT PLACES: The Omni Breeze features adjustable cushioned shoulder straps and padded lumbar support for ergonomic comfort. Straps can be used in two ways: regular or crossed over the shoulders. The Omni Breeze is built to fit your body comfortably - vented waist belt fits waist sizes ranging from 25.5 inches to 55.25 inches. PREMIUM FEATURES: The Omni Breeze includes side pockets for easily accessible storage, an attachable pouch to stow all baby necessities, and a hood for baby's sun protection and privacy for breastfeeding. [Buy from Amazon](https://amzn.to/3DUWu2t) 1 recommendation *Jocey Newman*: "Can't live without. We've tried lots of versions of the Ergobaby and have been happy with all of them. We particularly love baby-wearing for travel days to keep hands free, and we were blown away by how well this grew with my oldest. We started him facing in around 2 months, turned him to face outward around 4 months, and had him on my back until about 20 months!" ### Diaper Creams (1) **Aquaphor** **Diaper Creams** **Aquaphor Healing Balm Stick** $10.47 ONE ESSENTIAL SOLUTION: Aquaphor Healing Balm Stick is a multi-purpose skin care product for anyone seeking relief from dry, cracked skin on-the-go; as a lip moisturizer, facial moisturizer, hydrating mask, minor wound care and much more. SOOTHES IRRITATED SKIN: The Aquaphor Healing Balm Stick can be used as a chafe stick to help prevent chafing and it provides soothing care for dry, irritated skin; friction and windburn; chapped lips and cracked heels and feet. MOISTURIZED AND PROTECTED: Aquaphor Healing Balm Stick contains Petrolatum (a skin protectant) and is enriched with avocado oil and shea butter, leaving skin feeling moisturized and protected. CONVENIENT AND MESS-FREE: Aquaphor Healing Balm Stick provides a convenient, mess-free application and is the perfect size for your purse or gym bag. [Buy from Amazon](https://amzn.to/3SLR2XC) 1 recommendation *Jocey Newman*: "Worked for us. Great for on-the-go rashes, chafing, and burns!" ### Breastfeeding (1) **Pumpables** **Breastfeeding** **Genie Advanced Portable Breast Pump** Letdown & expression mode Suction level up to 330 mmHg Belt clip & lanyard Rechargeable battery with 3 hours pumping time & USB-C charging Bundled with Liquid Shield Kit FDA Approved [Buy from Pumpables](https://pumpables.co/products/genie-advanced) 1 recommendation *Jocey Newman*: "Worked for us. When traveling while pumping, this is FAR lighter-weight than the Spectra. I also really like the silicon flanges." ### Diaper Bags & Backpacks (1) **Paravel** **Diaper Bags & Backpacks** **Paravel Packing Cube Quads** $95.00 - 100% Nylon - Imported - HOLDS YOUR ESSENTIALS: These packing cubes come in 4 sizes where you can fit a variety of different clothing items and keep everything organized within your suitcase. - PERFECT FOR AVIATOR CARRY-ON: All 4 cubes fit perfectly into the Paravel Aviator Carry-on and Carry on Plus suitcases. - HOME ORGANIZATION: When not being used for travel, use in your closet as a home organization accessory to keep winter or summer clothes separate when out of season. - SUSTAINABLE: Sustainability is at the core of everything we do. Each packing cube is made from 16 recycled plastic bottles that go into the easy to care for nylon fabric. - WHO WE ARE: We are a travel-inspired brand with sustainability at the core of everything we do. We create impeccably designed, multi-functional, sustainable bags, luggage and accessories to accompany you for all journeys. [Buy from Amazon](https://amzn.to/3UOlCTb) 1 recommendation *Jocey Newman*: "Can't live without. Truly, any brand of packing cubes can work, but we swear by using some sort of packing cube! This makes it really easy to subdivide a suitcase or backpack, and easily grab baby's clothes for an emergency change." ### Wraps (1) **Welly** **Wraps** **Welly Flex Fabric Bandages** $6.94 [Buy from Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B085RKL9GY/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1&tag=spots05d-20&linkCode=ogi&th=1) 1 recommendation *Jocey Newman*: "Worked for us. My son loves the design and the fabric texture. These do seem to stay on longer (particularly when wet) than competitor brands." ### Thermometers (1) **Dr. Kids** **Thermometers** **Dr. Kids Children's Pain and Fever Acetaminophen, Pre-Measured Single-Use Vials** $15.00 [Buy from Amazon](https://amzn.to/3WRix4d) 1 recommendation *Jocey Newman*: "Worked for us. These pack tiny and work great on the go - there's no syringes to wash or bottles to deal with. Just know your dosing in advance." ### Recommended (1) **Lexon** **Lexon Flip+ Travel Digital Alarm Clock** $29.90 [Buy from Amazon](https://amzn.to/4dLZwGZ) 1 recommendation *Jocey Newman*: "Can't live without. Having a lightweight alarm clock is critical to my sanity when traveling. This one is battery-powered and super sleek." ### Outerwear (1) **FIrst Peak** **Outerwear** **The All-Season Sweatshirt** [Buy from First Peak](https://www.firstpeak.co/products/the-all-season-sweatshirt) 1 recommendation *Jocey Newman*: "Can't live without. This is my kids' travel uniform! Super stretchy and comfortable (even stretchy enough to go over baby's hips/diaper from below) and also stain- and odor-resistant. The perfect layer for flights." ### Pacifiers & Accessories (1) **BabyQuip** **Pacifiers & Accessories** **BabyQuip** [Buy from Service Provider](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=1287900&u=4113909&m=84551) 1 recommendation *Jocey Newman*: "Worked for us. Rent bulky items to keep your luggage light! We've rented car seats, cribs, and more. You can also check out Facebook Marketplace and Buy Nothing groups."