Family Trips Without the Chaos: Gear That Saves Sanity

Dusty Smith
Jun 22
3 min read

Because wrangling tiny humans through TSA is not for the faint of heart

Let’s be real—family travel is magical in theory. In practice, it can feel like a chaotic blend of snack requests, lost lovies, and someone definitely needing to pee during boarding. But the right gear? Total game-changer. With a little strategy (and a lot of zippered compartments), you can upgrade your next family trip from frazzled to functional.

Here’s the sanity-saving gear every traveling family should know about.

1. The Ride-On Suitcase—A Kid-Sized MVP

If you’ve ever tried to sprint to a gate with a tired toddler, this one’s for you. Ride-on suitcases double as luggage and transportation—your kid gets a comfy seat, you get your hands free, and everyone wins.

Try:

JetKids by Stokke BedBox (also turns into a mini bed on the plane)
Trunki Ride-On Luggage

2. Packing Cubes for Everyone

Packing cubes are like tiny drawers inside your suitcase. Color code them for each family member to make finding socks or PJs a breeze. Bonus points if you pack full outfits in one cube—no more digging through everyone’s clothes to find a missing T-shirt.

Try: Eagle Creek Pack-It Cubes or Amazon Basics Packing Cubes

3. A Parent Backpack That Doesn’t Scream “Diaper Bag”

You need something that holds snacks, toys, tech, and emergency wipes—but still lets you look like a functioning adult. A sleek, structured backpack with lots of compartments is the unicorn you’re looking for.

Try:

Fawn Design Weekender
Lululemon City Adventurer Backpack

4. Tablet + Kid-Safe Headphones

Yes, screen time is okay when you're 30,000 feet in the air and just trying to survive. Download a few shows, some interactive apps, and you’ve got yourself a flying peacekeeper.

Try:

Amazon Fire HD Kids Tablet (with the kid-proof case)
CozyPhones or PuroQuiet volume-limited headphones

5. A Compact Travel Stroller That’s Actually a Dream

The key here is foldability. You want something that handles airport zig-zags like a champ and fits in the overhead bin or gate-checks easily.

Try:

6. A Refillable Snack Container—Because Someone’s Always Hungry

Avoid the bottom-of-the-bag trail mix explosion by packing a sectioned snack container. Fill it with travel-friendly favorites like Goldfish, apple slices, or granola bites. Bonus: it works as a boredom buster too.

Try:

Bentgo Kids Snack Box
Munchkin Snack Catchers (for younger kids)

7. A White Noise Machine You Can Travel With

Help your kids (and you) sleep better in hotel rooms or on the plane with a small, portable white noise machine or app. Drown out hallway noise, hotel elevators, or that family next door who’s way louder than yours.

Try:

Yogasleep Rohm
White Noise Lite app (free and simple)

8. Wet Bags and a Mini First-Aid Kit

Spills, surprise accidents, mystery stickiness—it’s all part of the journey. A good wet bag saves you from digging around for plastic bags, and a mini first-aid kit means you won’t have to beg for Band-Aids at the front of the plane.

Try:

Itzy Ritzy Travel Wet Bags
Pre-packed kits like Welly or Keep Going

Final Thoughts: Keep Calm and Pack On

Traveling with kids doesn’t have to be chaotic. With the right gear—and a flexible attitude—you can turn “Are we there yet?” into “Let’s do this again.” It’s not about being the perfect parent traveler. It’s about being prepared enough to enjoy the ride (with minimal sticky fingers and maximum snacks).