Travel gear updates: toddler edition

As Jai has gotten older, we have definitely had to change a few things on our travel checklist. We still use the Artipoppe Zeitgeist carrier quite a bit, though now in the backpack mode or in other "creative" ways ie. tying him onto the roller bag. The Slumberpod along with the Guava Lotus travel crib are Jai's happy place for nap and bedtime, and we still spy on him using the Nanit camera. Below are some of the updates we have had to make:

Car seat

As much as I loved the convenience of the car seat that came with the PIPA urbn/TRVL system, Jai is just too big for the infant car seat part of it now. We needed to find a car seat that was not only safe, but also lightweight. We ended up picking the Cosco Scenara. It can be used both rear-facing and forward-facing, meets federal safety standards, is certified for use on an aircraft, and weighs less than 8 pounds. It’s also super easy to install in any car or airplane seat.  It’s definitely not as luxurious as many of the other car seats out there, but it gets the job done. And at less than 60 dollars, it’s a steal.

Car seat bag

Since the Cosco Scenara doesn’t clip onto the stroller (making going through the airport super easy), we needed to upgrade the bag. I’m sure everyone has seen the version that you wear like a backpack like this. While they are sturdy, since we tend to load our bag with the Slumberpod and Guava Lotus travel crib, that backpack would get heavy real quick. We ended up getting this roller version. Wheels just make it easier to lug around, especially if you're taking any sort of public transportation (we can attest, having taken it on the tube in London).

Travel chair

While most restaurants will have high chairs for kids, we have definitely had to feed him in places and at restaurants where that particular amenity doesn’t exist: wineries, breweries, parks, etc. We started bringing this chair with us, as it is super lightweight and compact, so much so it fits in the car seat and stroller bags easily. You can strap him in, the fabric seat can be thrown in the washing machine, and the detachable tray is the perfect plate on-the-go. 

Milk

As Jai had gotten older, some things have definitely gotten easier. Most significantly, the food situation is way less stressful. He is no longer reliant on formula or breastmilk and can eat basically whatever we eat. It’s so nice not to have to lug around formula, the bottle warmer, and multiple bottles. Now, other than packing some his favorite snacks (and as every parent knows, this changes on a weekly basis), I make sure to bring some shelf-stable boxed whole milk; I have been on quite a few flights now where they don’t have it. Horizon has a great product, as does Costco.