Our travel must-haves for little ones

Traveling with a little one used to feel like packing up the whole house. After a few trips (and a few lessons learned the hard way), these are the things we never leave without.

1. A portable pop-up tent

We bought ours for a beach road trip and it instantly became a favorite. It pops open in seconds, gives shade for naps and keeps sand out of everything.

2. A baby emergency car kit

Diapers, wipes, a spare outfit, snacks, a first-aid pouch and a phone charger, all in one bag that lives in the car. You can pack lighter for short trips, but for long drives it's a lifesaver.

3. A travel playard

A compact playard gives our little one a familiar place to sleep wherever we are. Look for one that folds small and sets up without a manual.

4. A stroller that works for real life

Smooth wheels, one-hand fold and a basket that actually fits your stuff. It makes airport days and theme parks so much easier.

Pack for the trip you're taking, not the one you're worried about. You can buy almost anything you forget.

You can shop everything we use on my link page.