With over 400 National Parks in the United States, whether you’re into exploring hiking trails, camping, going on scavenger hunts, or even soaking in hot springs, there’s an open space out there that you’ll love. If you have a 4th grader in your crew, be sure to snag the free national parks pass that’s good for their whole 4th-grade year. Another way to get in free is to visit during free national park days or choose a park that’s always free.
With a huge increase in visitors to national parks in recent years, some have instituted a reservation system during peak weekends and summer months. Be sure to check for this before you visit! Keep reading to see our favorite family-friendly parks, along with insider tips to help you make the most of your visit.
What to See & Do: Located around 4 hours from both San Francisco and Los Angeles, Sequoia National Park is home to the famous General Sherman Tree (the world's largest tree by volume). Also not to be missed is The Congress Trail—a 2.7-mile paved hike that loops through the forest where you'll get up close and personal with other famous sequoias like The President, The House, and the Senate—jaw-droppingly beautiful trees that have called this micro-climate home for the past 2,500 years or so.
Tips & When to Go: Open year-round, there's no bad time of year to see these gentle giants. In the winter, you can snowshoe among the trees (some roads may be closed due to conditions) while in the summer, you can spend more time and camp inside the national park if you desire. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. To help plan your trip, read our insider's guide to visiting Visalia and Sequoia National Park.
From the river bed of the Rio Grande to the peaks of the Chisos mountain range, this remote park runs along the Texas/Mexico border.
What to See & Do: Designated as one of the darkest places in the country, it’s one of the best places to stargaze with your kids. It’s also filled with fossils—be sure to take your dino enthusiast to the Fossil Discovery Exhibit. There are also plenty of hiking opportunities for families: some of the best trails for kids include the Window View, the Basin Loop, the Rio Grande Village Nature Trail, and for older kids, the Lost Mine Trail is worth the trek. One of the most popular things to do in Big Bend, however, is to float the Rio Grande. There are several outfitters that offer easy, half-day floats, like this Madera to Grassy Banks option from Big Bend River Tours, which are perfect for families with young children.
Tips & When to Go: Cell service can be spotty, but free, public WiFi is available at the Panther Junction Visitor Center, the Chisos Mountains Lodge, and the Rio Grande Village Store. The best time to go is Sept.-May, as it gets very hot in the summer.
Famed for its granite domes and ancient sequoia trees, Yosemite is a gold mine for families.
Things to See & Do: Filled with hundreds of miles of hiking trails, two favorites include the Tuolomne Grove Nature Trail because you are rewarded with some massive Giant Sequoias, including the one you can walk through, and the Mist Trail as you have the opportunity to see two waterfalls. Make sure you set aside some time to spend exploring Yosemite Village. Grab some lunch and souvenirs at the gift shop (it is huge—perfect to stock up on everything from hot cocoa to wine to grilling supplies). Take a break to watch the Spirit of Yosemite film at the visitor center to give the kids all the background info on Yosemite and how it came to be a national park.
The Yosemite Museum has hands-on exhibits where kids can learn all about the cultural history of Yosemite’s native Miwok and Paiute people from 1850 to the present. If you are lucky, you may even be able to see traditional skills presented by historians. Outside you can walk through a replica Miwok village to see how they lived.
Tips & When to Go: The park is open year-round, with seasonal activities, but May and Sep. are less crowded.
Sandstone cliffs, slot canyons, and animal wildlife are all part of the wonder of Zion National Park in Utah. You’ll want to give yourselves plenty of time at this scenic destination to take it all in.
Things to See & Do: Try a kid-friendly hike, like The Grotto Trail, Weeping Rock Trail, or the Emerald Pool Trail. While at the Emerald Pool trail, be sure to check out the gorgeous waterfall views. For a fun way for families to learn more about Zion together, head over to the Nature Center. Daily from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, youth programs specifically for children and families are offered, and last 30-45 minutes, so they're just the right length for your mini explorers.
Tips & When to Go: Zion National Park is open year-round. Some services or facilities may have limited hours at various times of the year.
Located in Maine, Acadia National Park offers trails along the granite shoreline that seem to rise from the sea. There are plenty of opportunities to learn about lobsters or search for harbor seals, the cool freshwater lakes, and frothy saltwater tidal invite exploring, and there are plenty of yummy lobster dinners within reach.
What to See & Do: Acadia offers families dozens of activities beyond hiking (though the hiking is both excellent and most often very family-friendly), which everyone will love. Pack your bikes for rides along the network of Carriage Roads, and blow their minds at Thunder Hole, a partially submerged cave that booms about an hour before high tide.
Tips & When to Go: While there is plenty to do for visitors of all ages and abilities, much of Acadia’s landscape is very rugged. If you’ve got wee ones in tow, a child’s backpack carrier just might save the trip. Late summer and early fall offer warm days, fewer crowds, and typically chilly evenings, making it the perfect time for a visit.
From mountain waterfalls to ice-cold streams running through rhododendron-laced valleys, the Smokies are full of crystal-clear swimming holes, easy and moderate hikes for all legs, and scenic drives. In addition to being a great national park for kids, this park offers free admission year-round.
What to See & Do: Getting to the Smokies is relatively easy from any place in the southeast, and it’s easily accessible from both Tennessee and North Carolina. Pigeon Forge and Sevierville are both mountain towns just outside of the park and offer plenty of lodging and entertainment options for families looking to neon-light their vacation. A true naturalist would be hard-pressed to find anything wrong with the Smokies, and it’s equally suited for families who prefer to balance their bouts with nature with outlet shopping, live entertainment, and restaurants (all available just outside the park).
Tips & When to Go: It’s rare to have a true off-peak season in the Smokies, so if you’re looking for isolation this isn’t the park for you. However, solitude can be found inside the boundaries of the park, and we recommend going in the early spring to catch the incredible display of ephemeral wildflowers in bloom. Or, go in the fall around the second or third weekend of October to see the brilliant fall leaves.
Explore the coastline and see wild horses on this island sanctuary.
What to See & Do: Since the park is located on a 37-mile-long barrier island, this spot is ideal for beach-loving families. Look for shells, kayak, play in the ocean, or visit one of the centers for a nature program and to experience the marine life touch tanks. Camping is a popular lodging option here, there are several sites, and reservations are required during portions of the year.
Tips & When to Go: Be sure to keep a distance of 40 feet from the wild horses. The park is open year-round, and visitors peak in July, to watch the horses swim the channel, but insects like mosquitos and gnats thrive in the humid summer months. Spring and fall are lovely times to visit.
The third-largest national park in the lower 48 states spans 2,400 miles and offers a respite from cold winter temps elsewhere in the country.
What to See & Do: The dry winter season here means more animals to spot (hello, alligators and manatees!), more ranger programs to attend (think: hikes, bikes, and talks), and way fewer mosquitos than you and the kiddos would find any other time of year. Ride bikes, take a boat tour (most of the park is only accessible by boat), or set up camp before the wet season hits.
The dramatic landscape of Badlands has an otherworldly feel that has to be seen to be believed. With a combination of impressive rock formations and beautiful grasslands, this South Dakota spot is worth a visit as it’s one of our top national parks for kids.
What to See & Do: Drive Badlands Loop Road and stop at a few of the overlooks for jaw-dropping views. Popular with kids, the quarter-mile Fossil Exhibit Trail winds along a boardwalk and features fossil replicas. Along with the Junior Ranger program in the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, kids can also check out the interactive exhibits and visit the theater to watch the film Land of Stone and Light. In the summertime, families can get a close-up view of the night sky through telescopes on Friday through Monday nights at the evening ranger program.
Tips & When to Go: Badlands is open year-round, although the visitor center is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. Summertime offers additional programs such as the Night Sky program, evening ranger programs, guided hikes, and talks.
Although not as well known as some other parks, Cuyahoga Valley is an ideal spot to watch changing foliage, colorful wildflowers and wildlife. Nestled between Cleveland and Akron, Ohio, this midwestern park may become a new favorite.
Things to See & Do: To see a magical view of Blue Hen Falls, the Blue Hen Falls Trail is an easy hike that the whole family can do together. At half a mile and just under thirty minutes, it’s a great intro trail and leads to the peaceful waterfall. You can also try birdwatching, canoeing and a whole schedule of summer events including train rides on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, ranger-led hikes and wildlife walks.
Tips & When to Go: The park is open every day, although some areas close at dusk for the night. Wildflowers are in bloom in mid to late summer.
If you’ve got a dino lover in your house, then Dinosaur National Monument is a definite stop for your list. Inside the Quarry Hall, the kids can check out over 1,500 real preserved dinosaur fossils that are sure to fascinate them. Next, move on to see some petroglyphs and pictographs as you drive the 10-mile Tour of Tilted Rocks. You’ll also find hiking, river rafting, and ranger-guided programs.
Tips & When to Go: Dinosaur National Monument is open every day all year, but during the winter, some roads and facilities are closed. The Quarry Visitor Center and Quarry Exhibit Hall are only open at certain times, so check the website before heading on your trip. In the summertime, temperatures can easily climb over 100 degrees, so take plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat.
Located only 75 miles outside of Washington, D.C., and with over 100 miles of scenic highway, this park is perfect for families who love a good road trip. Skyline Drive is the main (and only) drag through the park, and the 75 overlooks of the Shenandoah Valley are swoon-worthy.
What to See & Do: The Shenandoah National Park’s Scenic Drive ensures that you will see splendid views and have every opportunity to get out and explore the park since nearly all trailheads are located a short distance from the road. This is the perfect park for families with good car seat travelers!
Tips & When to Go: Because they leave the fields in the Shenandoah National Park unplowed to purposely propagate the wildflowers that bloom there, you are guaranteed to see an incredible show year-round.
Located in Hot Springs, Arkansas, the Hot Springs National Park is the only park that had a city grow up around it. Known for its bubbling mineral springs and their restorative and healing powers, you can still bathe in them today in one of the restored historic bathhouses.
What to See & Do: While the springs have been around for ages, the amenities have continued to improve. You can bathe in the mineral waters from the comfort of a modern-day spa after spending a morning hiking one of the park's 26 miles of trails. And did we mention that there’s a diamond mine only an hour away in Murfreesboro?
Tips & When to Go: We like the idea of a nice, hot mineral spring bath on a cool spring day, don’t you? The bathhouses are open year-round, but Arkansas heats up in the summer and we suggest going during one of the cooler months.
You can see beaches, rainforests, and mountains at this beautiful park in the Pacific Northwest. Olympic National Park holds a little something for everyone.
What to See & Do: On the coast, kids four and up can be “Ocean Stewards” and earn a badge for completing activities. You can also explore tide pools, try any number of family hiking trails or spend some time on Rialto Beach. For evening fun, join one of the Night Sky programs, such as stargazing or full moon hikes at Hurricane Ridge.
Tips & When to Go: June through September are the most popular times to visit. Although the park is most crowded during these times, the park also has the most facilities and programs available. The park is still a show-stopping sight in winter, but check the website for weather and road conditions first.
Lava Beds National Monument is a must-visit spot when you bring the family to Siskiyou County in Northern California. Here you can check out free flashlights from the visitor center and explore the many (VERY DARK) caves that were formed when lava flowed through the area thousands of years ago. For the youngest explorers, check out Mushpot Cave just a short walk from the visitor center. This is the only cave that has its own lighting in the tunnel.
What to See & Do: Skull Cave (pictured above) is a popular choice because of its massive size. A good lighting source will be needed if you want to venture all the way down to the cave's ice floor (the flashlights from the visitor center can be pretty dim so you might want to bring your own).
Tips & When to Go: Summer is a great time to visit Lava Beds. Remember that even though it might be in the 90s above ground that it will be very chilly when you head into the caves so long pants/long sleeves are recommended. There's no restaurant at the park so bring in lunch with you when you visit. Check out our guide to visiting Siskiyou County with kids for lots of other tips including where to visit the petroglyphs!
While not an official national park, Indiana Dunes still offers visitors over 15 miles of protected lakeshore and 48 miles of trails—some within sight of the Chicago skyline!
What to See & Do Lake Michigan’s sandy shoreline includes dunes that reach as high as 125 feet tall, and its National Lakeshore status has protected its natural beauty from development and commercialization. If you decide to explore the dunes, just be sure to stay on the marked trails to protect the natural habitat!
Tips & When to Go Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is a perfect spot for a picnic, day hike or day at the beach from the moment the sun starts shining in the spring until the last leaves have fallen in autumn.
Located in central Kentucky, Mammoth Cave is the world’s longest-known cave system. Experience the underground adventure with cave tours, trails, and more.
What to See & Do: You’ll find over 84 miles of hiking trails suitable for all different levels, so find the one that works best for your family and get ready to explore. A variety of cave tours are also available so you can see Mammoth Cave up close and personal. The Frozen Niagara is a popular cave tour for families with young kids. Lasting an hour and 15 minutes, the tour is ideal for small hikers at just about a quarter of a mile. Reservations are strongly recommended, but not required.
Tips & When to Go: The cave is open year-round, and the Visitor Center’s hours vary by season.Cave temperatures are between the 50s and 60s but can become much colder in the winter. When touring the caves, flash photography is not permitted. Strollers and child backpack carriers are also not permitted on cave tours, so make sure young ones are up for the walk.
Mountain scenery, glacier-chiseled lakes, and tons of activities greet you at this stunning park in Montana.
What to See & Do: Visit the Apgar Nature Center so kids can play and learn with various interactive activities, ranger talks, and children’s programs. Take in the scenery and look for wildlife as you drive the 50-mile Going to the Sun road. As an alternative, you can use the free shuttle along Going to the Sun Road between the nature center and the St. Mary Visitor Center. You’ll also want to make sure to make time to explore the park with a hike. Plenty of trails are popular with children, such as Trail of the Cedars, Hidden Lake Nature Trail or the Oxbow Trail. After you’ve worked up an appetite, don’t forget to make a stop for a scoop of huckleberry ice cream! A Glacier must.
Tips & When to Go: Glacier is open every day of the year, although hours at visitor stations vary by season. Summer is the most popular season to visit. Weather-related events may affect Going to the Sun Road plowing and opening, so follow the park’s current road status to get the latest information.
Little fossil fans will love imagining past prehistoric days and dinosaurs as they explore the Painted Desert landscape of Petrified Forest National Park.
What to See & Do: Be sure to make a stop at the Rainbow Forest Museum where your kids will enjoy the interactive exhibits and skeleton displays. From the museum parking area, you can find the trailhead for the Agate House trail, a two-mile trek with a paved portion, leading to an old pueblo made of petrified wood. At the Painted Desert Visitor Center, you’ll find an orientation video, a restaurant, gift shop, and plenty of information about the park.
Tips & When to Go: Petrified Forest National Park is open year-round, with the exception of December 25th. However, visitor center hours and park road hours vary by season.
Visiting White Sands feels a little bit like running through a dream. Acres and acres of soft white gypsum sand dunes will have the kids running, rolling and sliding for hours.
What to See & Do: Hit the Visitor Center first to learn all about how White Sands formed, and then head out to experience it! The eight-mile ride down Dunes Drive will take you to the center of the dune field. Sleds can be purchased at the Visitor Center, and little ones (and adults!) will love the chance to take a slide down. Sledding is permitted in the loop area of Dunes Drive. The Visitor Center also has a Junior Rangers program, a gift shop and a native plant garden. Kids can also check out an Adventure Pack for the day, containing binoculars, field guides, a compass and other items to help them explore the dunes.
Tips & When to Go: White Sands is open daily all through the year, with the exception of December 25. The monument occasionally closes for inclement weather or unsafe road conditions. Hours vary depending on the season, so check the website for the latest times. Pack sunglasses and don’t forget the sunscreen, because the sun shining off of those white dunes is bright.
Be wowed by the active volcanoes of Kilauea and Mauna Loa on Hawaii’s Big Island!
Things to See & Do: Start at the Visitor Center and check out the video Born of Fire, Born of the Sea. You’ll want to cruise the main road of Crater Rim Drive, where you’ll find tons of scenic stops to admire, such as Kilauea Overlook for unbeatable views. Swing by the Jaggar Museum where you can learn all about lava, seismographs and everything volcano-related. Finally, take your flashlights and explore the magnitude of Nahuku, the Thurston Lava Tube.
Tips & When to Go: The park is open year-round, including all holidays. The park contains two active volcanoes, so safety is always a priority. Stay up to date on volcanic activity and air quality before visiting by checking the park’s website.
Joshua Tree’s beautiful desert landscapes, nature trails and Dr. Seuss-like trees make this park a consistent favorite for families. It’s definitely worth a stop on your next California journey.
What to See & Do: You’ll find plenty of short trails and nature walks that won’t be too strenuous for small hikers. The Bajada, Cap Rock, Hidden Valley, and Cholla Cactus Garden are loop trails that are all one mile long or shorter and take an hour or less to complete. Let the kids pose for a photo with the appropriately named Skull Rock, located along the main park road. If you’re there at night, don’t miss the chance to gaze up at some unbelievable stars.
Tips & When to Go: Joshua Tree can get extremely hot in the summer, so a spring visit might be more comfortable, weather-wise. You’re in the desert, so plenty of water is also a must!
Yellowstone is definitely one for your national parks list! With geysers, hiking trails, animals, and forests on display, this gorgeous park is a can’t-miss stop on your road trip.
What to See & Do: No trip to Yellowstone is complete without a visit to Old Faithful, the world’s most famous geyser. Take a stroll on the boardwalks around the geyser, and then stop by the Visitor Center to find out when the next eruption is scheduled to take place! You can get a great look and a photo op from the viewing area nearby. While you’re in the Visitor Center, kids can sign up for the Yellowstone Junior Ranger program, where they can earn a badge after completing a series of activities around the park.
Grand Prismatic is another stunning feature on your Yellowstone trip. The park’s largest hot spring boasts bright colors that almost seem unreal. The boardwalk surrounding Grand Prismatic does get crowded, so hold tight to little hands as you check out this amazing thermal feature.
Driving into Yellowstone, you’ll catch some great wildlife sightings, and maybe even a bison crossing, which is always a thrill for little ones.
Tips & When to Go: Summer offers a ton of available activities but is by far Yellowstone’s busiest season, so expect crowds and a slow drive into the park. Spring, summer and winter offer fewer crowds, but some roads and activities are not available depending on weather, so keep up to date on Yellowstone’s website and plan your trip well in advance. We also love visiting in the winter via snowcoach!
With over 2,000 natural stone arches, beautiful red rock formations, and hikes for all ages, Arches National Park is a treat for the whole family.
What to See & Do: Drive through the park to catch a glimpse of some of the famous arches, and stop for strolls and photos. Kids will love Balanced Rock, a gravity-defying structure with a short loop trail that is perfect for small hikers. Another great spot for your little road trippers is Sand Dune Arch. With a 0.3-mile hike and tons of soft sand to play in, kids will have a blast making a detour here.
Tips & When to Go: March through October is the park’s busiest season, so expect crowds and longer lines to drive into the park. Rangers programs are offered in spring, summer, and fall, and the Visitor Center is open daily, except for December 25.
Kids love volcanos, and they’ll love that this lake formed from a volcano is also the deepest one in America. But there’s more to Crater Lake National Park than just the lake, and you’ll want to hit the trails (and fishing holes, and swimming holes) before you wrap up your visit.
What to See & Do: Trying to spot the Phantom Ship (a rock formation along the rim) is worth the trip all by itself, and Crater Lake National Park also offers boat trips to Wizard Island. With its volcanic past, this park is perfect for littles with big imaginations.
Tips & When to Go: Accessible almost all year, Crater Lake is rarely overwhelmed by visitors, even in the summer. Go between July and September for the best weather (and best chance to get out and explore).
Located just off the coast of Ventura, California, Channel Islands National Park is the perfect family day trip. Accessible only by boat or plane, the Park includes five islands.
What to See & Do: Not only are the islands great to explore by foot or kayak, but the necessary boat ride to get there adds to the trip’s element of adventure. Since these islands are truly remote, don’t take anyone whose needs might exceed what you can carry in a backpack. Tiny tots and need-to-nappers might be better off going when they get a tad older.
Tips & When to Go: While the islands are open to visitors year-round, fall, with warmer water and animal migrations, is a sure bet for the WOW factor. Keep your eyes peeled for blue and humpback whales off the coast, and you’re sure to see dolphins as you make your way to the islands by boat.
Additional reporting by Anna Doogan & Shelley Massey
Make sure to capture all your best travel moments—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.
You’ve finally arrived. You’re ready to give your home the attention it deserves, whether that be new toy storage in the kids’ room or giving your pantry a facelift. And the good news is, while your social feed may suggest otherwise, there’s no reason to rush out and blow your entire budget on stackable baskets and (perfect! cute!) containers for the kitchen. Instead, inspired by some of our favorite design-centric parents, these ideas are all about organizing with IKEA products and might be the answer to all of your makeover dilemmas.
Why do people love organizing with IKEA products?
The Scandinavian design company has long been a place for folks to pick up affordable and functional furniture, but the products also tend to be fairly basic in design, so you can glam it up, and with a little creativity, use it in areas you might not normally think about. Plus, the storage options are endless, and anyone with kids knows how important that can be.
IKEA’s KALLAX storage unit becomes a versatile piece in H.isforHome’s nursery as a changing table with plenty of storage ready at hand. The greatest part about this hack is that later when her son Grayson outgrows the changing table, there’s a seamless transition into simple storage and shelving pieces (click here to check it out).
Your bed slats are so much more than support for your bed. Use this awesome idea from Kristina of Ich Designer to make an amazing wall storage space for your family using the LURÖY Slatted Bed Base from IKEA. Hang baskets, magazines, notebooks, and more to get your everyday must-haves out of the way.
4. BILLY Bookshelf Mudroom Lockers
Whether you have a mudroom, or just have a bit of extra space in your entry, Melissa from Polkadot Chair has a hack that will revolutionize your storage life. Using the BILLY bookcase, you can create lockers for everyone’s coats, bags, shoes, and more.
If you’re looking IKEA organizing ideas to help you keep the clothes in order, the KOMPLEMENT storage boxes are perfect. They require almost no assembly and can help you organize piles of laundry in a snap.
If you’ve got a small kitchen but dream of having an island, this IKEA organization idea from Craftydust is right up your alley. Using KALLAX shelves and the KARLBY kitchen worktop, you can have an island that not only folds in half but can also be used as a bar cart.
Under your bed doesn’t have to be wasted storage space. Transform it with a helping hand from Faith Towers at Curbly. Believe it or not, her amazing under-the-bed storage boxes are made of frames—specifically the IKEA RIBBA Frames and a set of casters from Amazon! Check out her tutorial to get started.
We know this project seems like a lot of work, but the result is worth it. Nele Cole has a great tutorial on how to make a LEGO table using the TROFAST Storage System from IKEA that not only has room for all the kids but all the bricks too.
When it comes to books, give the kids a place all their own. Using BEKVÄM spice rack shelves, simply attach them to the side of your bookshelf and rotate their favorites in and out.
You want to display their best artwork as well as some of the things you’ve collected along your life journey, but you don’t want it to feel too cluttered. Solution? Snag some IKEA RIBBA frames and get to work.
Using the TINGBY side table and the RÖDEBY bamboo armrest tray, you can create a storage container that works great in an office and looks amazing, too. You’ll need extra hardware for this one, so be sure to watch the video!
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Diapers, check! Formula, check! Sanity? TBD! When you’re traveling with a baby, it’s anyone’s guess how “relaxing” your much-needed vacation is going to be. But there is something you can do to up your chances of a blissful babymoon: Stay at a resort with baby care! Whether that means a hotel that gives you a full-time “Vacation Nanny” (it’s a thing!) or a resort with a kids club that’ll take the under-two set, staying at a hotel with dedicated baby care will help you get the rest and relaxation you deserve.
This dreamy resort on Fiji’s second-largest island welcomes you with a foot massage and the most friendly staff we’ve ever met. Traditional thatched-roof bures are where you’ll stay during your visit and you can choose from ones that offer a separate room for the kids or a single large room where your whole family can spread out. The on-staff marine biologist presents an impressive program to teach you all about the creatures who inhabit the turquoise waters offshore and there are daily cultural activities that teach you about the Fijian people. Venture out on daily snorkeling or kayaking excursions, or take lessons to become scuba certified during your stay so you can explore the deeper waters.
Baby-Friendly Perks: The resort’s Bula Club is truly the star of their offerings. One-on-one nanny care is provided to babies aged 5 and under from 8 am-6:30 pm. Kids 6-12 have an assigned buddy group of up to five kids that they can stay with during the same hours. Care during the dinner hours is offered in your bure until 9 pm. All of this care is included with your stay and it is highly flexible to support each family’s needs.
The massive Bula Club facility is just a short walk from the reception area and features a dedicated area where little ones can nap, kitchen facilities, water play areas, a playground, sports courts, and so much more. An amazing bond is formed between the caregivers and visiting children, and families regularly return to the property and request the same nannies and buddies year after year. We even witnessed a few tears shared between kids and their buddies when leaving the resort!
Grown-Up Amenities: Spend your days lounging by the pool or book a Koko Rapture massage where you are massaged with fermented cacao paste and wrapped in banana leaves. The property also offers a number of special activities that can be booked at additional cost like a visit to the nearby chocolate farm or a brunch at the property’s private island. Definitely go on the waterfall hike; it’s gorgeous!
What's better than a tropical beach vacation? A tropical beach vacation with a nanny to take care of your kids. At Jamaica's Franklyn D Resort and Spa, a private "Vacation Nanny" is included with the cost of your stay. That means if any time of day (between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m.) your kids need someone to keep them company—i.e. any time you want some time for yourself to enjoy the spa, beach, pool, or explore the nearby town of Runaway Bay—there's a nanny for that! The resort describes the Vacation Nanny as "your family’s vacation assistant who is happy to take care of your family's every need." Um... Yes, please! Want some family time? When your nanny isn't helping you with the kids, she can tidy your suite, wash dishes, do laundry and restock the fridge.
Baby-Friendly Perks: As if the nanny thing wasn't really all you ever wanted, the resort also has a kids club (with its own bunny petting farm!), game room, beach, pool, and waterslide to entertain your littles. As for lugging your baby supplies—Don't! Cribs and bath supplies can be provided, as well as kid-friendly meals.
Grown-Up Amenities: The all-inclusive nature of this place means that all meals, drinks, and snacks are included, as are activities including glass-bottom boat tours, booze cruises, biking, water sports, and snorkeling.
Located in the heart of Baa Atoll on a secluded reef island with idyllic ocean views, powder-soft white sand, and unique marine biodiversity, Vakkaru Maldives is a timeless resort sanctuary. The resort features 113 luxury villas and suites, five restaurants, two bars, a wine cellar, and an over-the-water spa.
Baby-Friendly Perks: The property has a Parrotfish Club where children under the age of 3 can participate with a parent or babysitter. Guests can hire a team member for $30 per hour to take care of a toddler and they have their own little room and bed to take a nap in. Highlights of the club include yoga, mat weaving, kite making, a treasure hunt, an origami class, coconut making, henna tattoos, and much more.
Grown-up Perks: You're in relaxation mode when you visit this property but if you want to have a more active day, there are tons of options. Enjoy scuba diving with PADI-accredited instructors, snorkel with hawksbill turtles, or spend the day deep-sea fishing.
This all-inclusive Caribbean island paradise has everything a family needs, with 21 restaurants, 15 bars, 10 pools (including a 45,000-square-foot waterpark!), and a 12-mile beach that'll make you want to be barefoot for days. As is the case in all Beaches Resorts (there are three of them), expect appearances from Sesame Street characters, as well as a bevy of activities for kids of all ages, including water sports, tennis, biking, swim-up soda bars, and a kids camp.
Baby-Friendly Perks: The Kids Camp program at Beaches Turks & Caicos is open every day, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., with an infant program (for the 0-2 set), a toddler program (ages 3-4), a navigators program (ages 5-7), an adventurers program (ages 8-10), a tweens program (ages 11-14), and a teen program (ages 15-17). As for the infant program, it offers luxurious, climate-controlled nurseries filled with cribs, strollers, high chairs, rocking chairs, and everything your little one could ever need. Meanwhile, those older sibs can enjoy the Junior Golf Club, Kids scuba program, Pirates Island waterpark, Sesame Street Caribbean Adventure (where kids do crafts, cooking, and activities with the Sesame Street gang), and the XBOX Play Lounge.
Grown-Up Amenities: While you're not out enjoying the expansive white sand beaches (voted the "World's Best Beach" by TripAdvisor), how about kayaking, paddle boarding, or scuba diving in those clear turquoise waters? Or, grab a beach cruiser and explore the resort's five unique villages, each of which have its own theme. Did we mention it's all-inclusive? That means all meals, drinks (including beer and liquor), most activities, nightly entertainment, kids camps, fitness activities—even taxes, tips, and gratuities!—are included.
Martinhal's flagship resort is located within a protected natural park directly on its own beach inSagres—an area known to be the most south-westerly point of Europe and one of the Algarve's best-kept secrets. Sagres is a charming unspoiled beach town surrounded by dramatic coastal scenery, lighthouses, and the best beaches in Portugal. Idyllic for families and multi-generational groups, the resort combines hotel suites and villas.There are37 stylishly designed hotel rooms, including Beach Suites, in addition to 155 villas with their own kitchens, living rooms, washer/dryer amenities, and many featuring their own private swimming pool and gardens.
Baby-Friendly Perks: Parents with infants will love the seamless 'Baby Concierge' service that allows them to take a step back in family travel planning and leave the hassle to the welcoming Martinhal staff. Everything is handled from being able to pre-book baby equipment: potties, thermometers, socket protectors, door protectors, baby baths, bottle warmers, safety gates, changing mats and more, free of charge. For parents checking into any Martinhal Resort with babies - The Baby Concierge proactively sets up the room in advance with a few core items without you even having to ask such as a bottle sterilizer, hypoallergenic dishwasher liquid, whole milk in the fridge, baby bowls and silverware, a crib with sheets/bedding all prepared, and a highchair. They also give you a little welcome pack featuring a stuffed toy of the fox mascot of Martinhal and more.
Grown-Up Amenities: Parents can unwind at the Finisterra Spa, take advantage of the excellent windsurfing conditions, or spend the day hiking around the area's gorgeous coastline.
A true and authentic beach getaway, Sandos Playacar is situated in a private gated community just a short bike ride from the heart of Playa del Carmen. With white sand beaches and enchanting turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, this all-inclusive resort ensures that each guest, no matter their age, can enjoy activities from sun up to sun down.
Baby-Friendly Perks: Family-friendly and accommodating to parents with kids of all ages (no matter how young!), Playacar offers individualized and after-hours care for babies and kids, with their private babysitting service that can be arranged with the concierge with just a 24-hour notice for an additional fee. The resort is also home to an incredible Kids Club with 2 children’s pools, a puppet theater, a playground area, a tree clubhouse, crafts, sports, and more, which operates from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. For older kids who want a cool place to hang out (parent-free!), Playacar also offers a Teen Club for 13 to 17-year-olds, complete with arcade games, a mocktail bar, a dance floor, and more.
Grown-Up Amenities: For the grown-ups in the group, Sandos Playacar offers an adults-only section, a full-service 22-cabin spa, a professional-grade stage that has played host to world-renowned musicians for nightly shows, amazing ocean-front pools, beach access, and so much more. It is also home to 16+ restaurants and bars, offering a huge variety of food and beverage experiences that range from international cuisine and gourmet dining to beach snacks, buffets, swim-up bars, and more. Not to mention its 10 bars and cocktail experiences, all of which are included under the all-inclusive guest package.
Set on a white sand beach facing the Andaman Sea, this family-friendly beach resort offers guests an idyllic setting in one of the most picturesque places on Earth. Located just 20 minutes from Phuket International Airport, guests look out onto the beautiful Phang Nga from accommodations that are second to none in this part of the world. These range from lofts all the way up to five-bedroom beachfront villas. Luxurious accommodations are accompanied by innovative Thai cuisine and a rejuvenating spa.
Baby-Friendly Perks:The Explorer's Club and Aleenta Phuket-Phang Nga Resort & Spa was designed to offer youngsters the perfect place to learn, play, and explore. The ‘Learn and Discover’ program offers a variety of fun, age-appropriate educational activities for children aged from six months up to five years that will help develop toddlers’ simple communication and friendship skills, such as blowing bubbles, finger paint art, and clay modeling. A professional nanny service is also available (with extra cost) for parents looking to relax and enjoy time together.
Grown-up Amenities: For family adventures to remember and to learn more about the destination itself, bicycles are available to explore the ancient temples, hidden waterfalls, and local markets of Phang Nga. Movie nights also allow parents to experience the resort’s fine dining while children enjoy the latest cinema hits.
Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France offers spacious suites, many with two bedrooms, interconnected and with their own private swimming pools. Parents can rest assured that everything their baby needs will be available when they arrive including highchairs, baby cots, changing tables, and bottle warmers. The property's culinary team is on hand to create purees or specific dishes catered to the children’s dietary requirements, while local favorites make an appearance on the a la carte menu, including mahi-mahi with rice and exotic fruits. As a memento from the Maison, each family will receive a personalized embroidered sleep suit to take home with them.
Baby-Friendly Perks: The property offers a Baby Bonding experience (for an additional fee) that includes a baby body massage by an expert therapist to promote relaxation and bonding through skin-to-skin interaction, with a private session for the therapist to help parents learn the safest technique for massaging their own baby. Mothers can also receive a New Mother Ritual, a calming and soothing massage. For budding water babies, the program includes the baby's first swimming lesson with guidance for safe and fun-filled water activities. Plus, Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France offers Aqua-Osteopathy for babies, a unique and gentle therapy treatment performed in warm water.
Grown-Up Amenities: Parents can enjoy face and body treatments at the esteemed Cheval Blanc Spa and then relax by the ocean for a meal of local delicacies.
With its varied roster of included activities—and established kids clubs to entertain littles of all ages—Club Med has been bringing family entertainment to the beach vacation since 1967. And this huge Dominican coast resort is no exception.
Baby-Friendly Perks: Punta Cana is one of a selection of Club Meds with a dedicated “Baby Club” (offered at an extra charge), which means babies 4 to 23 months will be pampered by a team of baby-whisperers all day long (there’s night care as well if you need it). To make sure babies are safe and learning at their own pace, the Baby Club is split into walkers and non-walkers, with equipment, books, and early-learning toys suited to the age. And, the resort will also provide all the gear you need, including a baby bathtub, bottle warmer, changing table, crib, and stroller—all of which will be waiting for you in your room on arrival (you just have to give advance notice).
Meanwhile, if you’ve got older kids, they’ll be having adventures to remember, with flying trapeze classes, arts and crafts sessions, tennis lessons, games and tournaments, nightly performances (one of which will be starring them!), archery, playgrounds, and pools.
Grown-Up Amenities: The fun’s not limited to the littles! Grown-ups can partake in one of the more than 60 included activities, including paddle boarding, kayaking, sailing, snorkeling, beach volleyball, crafts, archery, pool aerobics, flying trapeze, and nightly entertainment. Want to relax? Enjoy a cocktail by the pool, a massage by the beach, or a fine meal in one of three restaurants. And, let’s not forget, this is the tropics! There are plenty of beaches and warm, crystal-clear waters to explore in and around the resort.
As the only private beach resort in Los Cabos, this elegant 57-room seaside resort has luxury down to a science—but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t care about the well-being of its youngest guests. The hotel treats babies and toddlers with the same world-class service as it does its grown-up guests, and will provide everything from full-size cribs and bassinets, baby monitors, sleep machines, bottle warmers, baby bath supplies, and toiletries—as well as extras like stuffed animals and a handcrafted Mexican gifts at turndown.
Baby-Friendly Perks: This resort with baby care works with local agencies to provide bilingual nannies trained in first aid and CPR (for an extra fee). Older kids (ages 4-11) can enjoy a roster of included activities—from beach play and yoga to ice cream making and piñata parties—at the kids club.
Grown-Up Amenities: Enjoy excursions into the Sea of Cortez, with experiences that include deep sea fishing (and the kitchen will cook your catch when you get back!), yacht cruises, and whale watching. Or stay on land and try a tequila tasting, curated wellness experience, private cooking class, or horseback ride on the beach.
If the winter blues are making you long for sunny days and warmer weather, a Jamaican vacation won't disappoint! Warm all year round and dry in the winter months of December through May, Jamaica is the perfect destination for winter or spring break, with the all-inclusive Grand Palladium offering enough amenities for babies and kids to make the trip a breeze for families of all ages.
Perks for Babies: For toddlers 1 to 3, there's a kids club open every day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. where kids can play and learn while parents rest easy knowing they'll be called if anyone needs a cuddle. For little swimmers, there's a waterpark offering slides, shallow entries, a lazy river, and sprinklers. Babysitting can be arranged for infants under 1.
Grown-Up Amenities: With four huge pools (one with a swim-up bar!), be prepared to lounge poolside with pina coladas while your littles play the day away—or relax on the protected beach with turquoise waters lapping at the sand. And, all food and drinks are included, so indulging is A-OK! Want to escape your escape? The resort is strategically placed between Jamaica's two most popular towns, Montego Bay and Ocho Rios, so you can find local restaurants, stores, and attractions within minutes. Back at the resort, included amenities include kayaking, snorkeling, windsurfing, fitness classes, nightly entertainment, tennis, and mini golf.
Snow more your style? Families will love this ski-centric family club, which makes sure lessons, lift tickets, and ski rentals—plus flights, transportation from the airport, meals, accommodations, kids programming, and childcare—are included in the cost of your stay. Don’t worry about bringing baby gear, either: Club Med will provide a baby bathtub, bottle warmer, changing table, crib stroller—and many other extras you might need. These are all the reasons it’s at the top of our list of best resorts with baby care.
Perks for Babies: Babies as young as 4 months old can spend the day at Baby Club Med, a specialized environment just for little snow bunnies, where babies are grouped in either “walker” or “non-walker” groups so that the play is appropriate for their developmental stage. Sensory play and music are the name of the game here—including letting kiddos out into the cold (carried by caregivers) to experience the wonder of snow first-hand. If you’ve got older kids, drop them off at the kids club, where kids as young as 4 can sign up for ski lessons.
Grown-Up Amenities: The best part about this club is that you can drop off your kids and hop straight onto the slopes of the Massif de Charlevoix ski area (it’s a ski-in, ski-out location!), with majestic slopeside views of the St. Lawrence river. New to skiing? No problem! Lessons are included in the cost of your stay! When you’re all skied out, there are other winter sports including snowshoeing and dog sledding.
This gorgeous beachfront boutique resort is the only Dominican Republic hotel to get a stamp of approval from Relais & Châteaux, an elite association of luxury hotels around the world. But luxury doesn't have to mean kids aren't welcome. They definitely are! Parents can relax by the infinity pool or bask in the warm, tropical breezes while kids play in the free kids club, splash in the pool (supervised by lifeguards), play on the playground, or enjoy the private beach in the company of sitters.
Perks for Babies: For $325, you can get the VIBabies Package will provide your baby or toddler with baby supplies (including a portable crib, toys, a changing table, bottle warmer, play table, playpen, baby monitor, baby bathtub, snacks & juices, and beach accessories), plus two hours of private babysitting per stay. Kids also eat free from the kids' menu. Additional babysitting can be provided for a fee.
For older kiddos (ages 4-12), there's a kids club located on an artificial lagoon, with a massive replica tree house equipped with a mini spa for kid manicures, pedicures, and hairstyling—as well as a video gaming area, mini kitchen, mini buffet area, bathrooms, and a central area for play and storytelling. Private babysitting is also offered for an extra charge on request. There are also a ton of toys for kids to use freely, including water pistols, kayaks, body boards, sports balls, assorted floaters, floating hammocks, and board games.
Grown-Up Amenities: With the resort's luxurious junior suites offering a walk-in closet and a private pool and patio, you may not want to leave your room! But if you do, you'll be able to choose from a plethora of goodies, from an 18-hole golf course and luxury spa to horseback riding, three restaurants, and two bars. The resort can also arrange private day trips, including helicopter and private jet excursions to see the area's beaches, tropical forests, and turquoise waters from the sky.
Resort with Baby Care in Greece: Sani Beach Resort
Sani Resort
Voted the "Best Family Hotel in Europe," Sani Beach offers a baby club that'll keep your tots entertained and safe while you enjoy the turquoise waters and seaside luxury of this sprawling Mediterranean resort. Need supplies? The resort will provide upscale wooden cribs, bedding, hangers, a night light, mosquito net, bed rails, video monitors, feeding and bathing supplies, toiletries, and potty training items.
Baby-Friendly Perks: Worried about your jet lag? Take advantage of a complimentary session at Carol Mae Consulting, where you’ll learn how to adjust your children’s sleep and routine to make the most of your stay. Parents seeking a little solo time can drop their babies off at the baby club, which has three sessions daily for babies as young as 4 months (with a three-to-one ratio of adult to baby); meanwhile, private nannies and nighttime babysitters are available for an extra charge. There's also a fenced-off sandy area on the beach where qualified staff can watch your baby on the beach for up to 30 minutes while you pop into the sea (you don't even need advance notice for this!). Baby swimming lessons are available, too, if you think now's the time to get your tot treading.
And, don't worry about bringing jars of baby food on the plane; Sani hotel chefs will prepare delicious homemade baby food from fresh local ingredients—with dishes like sea bass puree, Mediterranean vegetable puree, and fruity puree on the menu. All of the hotel's restaurants also have toddler and kid menus.
Grown-Up Amenities: Set sail on a complimentary morning or sunset cruise, relax on one of the resort's seven beaches, take a complimentary yoga class on the sand, or enjoy any of the resort's 40 restaurants and bars that offer Greek traditional cuisine and Michelin star dining. Want to stay active? There's archery, paddle boarding, beach sports, tennis, a treetop ropes course in the adjacent forest, and nature walks.
If having kids hasn’t dulled your sense of adventure (because, really, why should it?), a trip to this pristine 37,000-acre ranch may be right up your alley. You'll spend your days giddying up through vast valleys, fly-fishing rushing waters, lassoing cattle (!), or just gazing up at the endless starry skies while your little ones snuggle beside you.
Baby-Friendly Perks: While this resort doesn’t have a dedicated baby club, it does have on-site nanny service available for when you want to have a romantic dinner at the resort’s upscale restaurant, enjoy the spa, or head out to the great outdoors, baby-free. For kids 3-12, the resort’s Kids Adventure Club (available for an additional fee) will take little cowboys and cowgirls on daylong adventures into the wilderness to try things like archery, geocaching, go-karting, pony rides, snow tubing, and sapphire hunting.
Grown-Up Amenities: Horseback riding, hiking, and exploring the sweeping wilderness is the big draw for most Paws Up-bound travelers (plus the fact that it’s super fun for kids of all ages!). In the winter, enjoy sleigh rides, dog sledding, and snowmobile rides—plus horseback riding in the snow. Warmer months will have you riding your horse through rushing rivers as well as trying a treetop ropes course, mountain biking, kayaking, paddle boarding, jet skiing, and fishing. At the end of the day, enjoy delicious “rustic ranch” cuisine made with local ingredients, then get cozy in the elegant accommodations (which include everything from upscale safari tents to luxury homes and a secluded three-story tree house that will make you want to go Swiss Family Robinson forever).
If a high-end vacation experience is what you're after (and can afford), the Bluefields Bay Villas offer everything you might want, from your own personal butler to a private villa big enough to host even large families. If the mesmerizing blue-green waters, fine white sand beaches, and gourmet Caribbean cuisine don't seriously tempt you, the all-day nanny service might!
Baby-Friendly Perks: Up to nine hours a day of private child care is included in your stay. And, with villas spaced so far apart that you won't see a neighbor nearby, your kids can giggle, babble, and cry as loud as they want. As for supplies, the resort can provide any baby furniture (crib, high chair, bath, etc.) you need, as well as prepare fresh baby food for your little foodie.
Grown-Up Amenities: Butler service, nannies, private chefs, a personal concierge, and your own private house—this place will make you feel like royalty If you feel the need to leave your villa (one of which has its own private island and beach!), you'll have access to sea kayaks, sailboats, Hydrobikes, standup paddle boards, snorkel gear, a tennis court, and staffed seaside lounging areas. After a long day of relaxing, go home to your pristinely kept villa and enjoy a freshly prepared meal in the privacy of your own dining room.
If you like the idea of someone tending to all your baby’s needs, this luxury all-inclusive resort is at your (baby’s) service. Upon check-in, a dedicated “Baby Concierge” will help you secure any gear or meals or nanny services—including whatever you don’t want to drag from home (like a crib, stroller, baby tub and toiletries, bottle brush and sterilizer, pacifier, or pool floaties). Gourmet baby purées are prepared by executive chef Guillaume Morance, and all rooms have a kitchen that includes a coffee maker, microwave, cooktop, and full-size fridge, so you’ll feel at home right away. All that, and you’ll be vacationing in a white sand paradise, where the Yucatan jungle meets the Caribbean sea.
Baby-Friendly Perks: Want to throw your baby a first birthday party any grown-up would swoon over? Try the “Mi Premier Fiesta” package, complete with authentic piñatas. There’s also a “Baby’s First Haircut” package if you want your baby’s tresses to be trimmed for the occasion. Got older kids? There’s an on-site Kids Club for kids 4-12, with things like water balloon fights, stone painting, board games, and a mini disco to keep everyone happy and busy.
Grown-Up Amenities: Park yourself by the pool, where you can get food and drinks delivered all day long. Another goodie: Room service is available (and included!) 24 hours a day, so when you need that glass of wine at the end of a long day at the beach, don’t be afraid to order it. This is an all-inclusive resort, after all, which means 24-hr suite service, top-shelf beverages, and all taxes and gratuities, plus Heavenly Beds, jacuzzi tubs, and private terraces with plunge pools. There’s even a 10-course tasting menu paired with wine. . . .all included!
Read Tinybean’s in-depth review of the Granda Velas’ sister hotel in the Puerto Vallarta here.
For a Real Splurge: Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica
Four Seasons
Who says having a baby slows you down? For parents who want more than just the typical beach vacation (and who don't mind paying thousands of dollars for a few days in the lap of luxury), this 2,300-acre Costa Rican jungle-seaside resort will take good care of little explorers while you traipse through the forest, zip-line over treetops, or surf the waves.
Baby-Friendly Perks: No need to carry a pack-n-play or a highchair through customs; the Four Seasons will provide all the baby basics, including a crib, high chairs, and bath amenities. And while your baby will be happy sitting on the beach in your arms, the hotel has its own staff available for babysitting (for an extra charge) for those times when you want to go out and explore all the surrounding rainforest has to offer (babysitting requests need to be made in advance). Older kids can meet kids from around the world at the kids club and teen center, where they'll have organized adventures of their own, including guided nature hikes or surf lessons taught by members of the Costa Rican National Surf Team.
Grown-Up Amenities: Book a spa treatment at the award-winning spa, take a zipline tour over the jungle, paddle through the mangroves, or try a monkey safari! The water more your thing? Don a snorkel or a scuba suit and explore the coral reefs off the coast, which are teeming with life and known as one of the best diving and snorkeling spots in the world.
Before you hit “add to cart,” check out this list of the best baby gear to borrow
Preparing for the arrival of your little one is an exciting time, but it can also be daunting for new parents. With so many baby products on the market, you may be asking yourself what items are worth the splurge? It’s tempting to want all the baby items—every single one—but remember, your baby isn’t going to be tiny forever. Instead, consider borrowing baby gear you know you won’t need for long. Not only are you saving money, but you get to feel like a hero, too (because you’re saving these items from the landfill). Whether you ask a friend or put feelers out on a local borrowing group, here are dozen items you don’t have to include on your baby registry.
1. Baby clothes
Itsy bitsy baby clothes are the cutest, but your little one will grow quickly. Don’t invest too much in newborn clothing (trust us, most of it will end up stained in the end). Your baby is likely to outgrow those adorable onesies in a couple of weeks, leaving you with boxes of clothes laying around you haven’t had the heart to donate…yet.
2. Portable bassinet
When you’re on the go, portable bassinets are awesome, but again, you won’t be using them forever. Before you know it, your baby will be on the move, and won’t be able to use the portable bassinet. So consider borrowing before you click “add to cart” on this one.
Keeping your baby busy and entertained will soon be a staple of your day. Your arms can only carry your newborn for so long before you need a break. Activity gyms are wonderful (not to mention developmentally appropriate) for your curious baby. But the time for baby to interact with this toy is short-lived—just like their attention span.
4. Mamaroo
For many families, this is a total splurge-worthy baby item. But if you can find it second-hand, it’s a total win. Like most baby gear, the window for its usefulness is fleeting. In the blink of an eye your baby will be too big for the soothing, mechanical rocker, and you’ll have to resort to the parent sway-and-shush to get your little one to sleep. Let’s just say it’s never too early to make friends with parents who have the Mamaroo so you’ll be next in line for the hand-off.
5. Jumperoo
Costs add up when you’re buying baby gear. And although the Jumperoo is an item you’re definitely going to want to grab, you don’t necessarily have to pay top dollar for it. It’s a lifesaver for keeping kiddos engaged and as the name suggests, jumping for joy. But like many items on our list, it’s usefulness is short-lived. Once baby starts cruising around, they often want to be free—no matter how bouncy and entertaining that Jumperoo is.
6. Strollers
Many strollers come with sticker shock, and it doesn’t help that there are a billion different options. Lightweight strollers, travel strollers, convertible strollers, jogging strollers, double strollers—it’s enough to make your head spin. Before buying, consider when and how you’ll use your stroller. Jogging strollers and double strollers are perfect examples. You’ll likely not use them every day, and they are incredibly expensive. Unless you’re an avid runner, borrowing one from a friend may get you through.
7. Changing table
Be prepared to spend a lot of time at the changing table. However, that doesn’t mean you need to spend a lot on it. There is nothing revolutionary about a changing table. Unless you’re looking to match a specific aesthetic, this is another item you can easily borrow.
8. Hiking backpack
Hitting the trails with your baby is a great way to get outdoors and experience the beauty of nature together. But soon enough, your little one won’t need (or want) to be carried. They’ll be toddling along beside you. Have a parent friend with older kids who also loves to hike? There’s a good chance they have a hiking backpack collecting dust somewhere you can borrow.
This is another item that will get a lot of use. Pack ‘n Plays are great for naptime, playtime, and travel time—really anytime, but you don’t necessarily need to buy them new. They are portable, easy to assemble, and fantastic for corralling a kid in a safe environment so you can go hands-free for a while. But here’s the skinny: once baby starts to crawl, the pack ‘n play isn’t nearly as appealing to them as it once was. Plus, everyone has one of these laying around somewhere. All you need to do is ask.
10. Infant bathtub
You will likely only need an infant bathtub until your little one begins to sit up around six months, so this is another product on our list to consider swapping rather than purchasing. Infant bathtubs are adorable, but also not a necessity.
Another big-ticket item (depending on the brand), another one you can probably find in a friend’s garage. There are different types of highchairs too, which you may need based on development and personal preference: full-size, portable, and booster seats. If all three are on your list, think about what you’ll use on the daily and then see if you can borrow the other two. Be warned though, this is one product that is guaranteed to get messy, so you may want to give yours a good scrub after it’s been gifted to you.
12. Bike trailer
When it comes to the baby gear to borrow, bike trailers should be on every casual rider’s list. Unless you’re training for a triathlon or you bike all the time, you probably won’t get as much use out of a bike trailer as you plan before baby arrives. Trust us, this money can be better spent elsewhere if you can get a loaner from a friend or rent one from a local bike shop.
These all-inclusive resorts have amazing kids club programs that are included with your stay
Thinking of heading to the Dominican Republic with your family? You definitely should! It’s a quick flight from the East Coast and offers some of the most gorgeous beaches, welcoming people, and delicious food in the Caribbean. Club Med is an easy choice for families as it is truly all-inclusive. You can have them book everything from your flights to your airport transfers and excursions so you don’t even have to think about anything beyond packing your suitcase.
Club Med offers two properties in the Dominican Republic: Club Med Punta Cana and Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda. Which of these all-inclusive properties is best for families? We have the full scoop on both and a tip on how you can even enjoy both on the same vacation!
Club Med Punta Cana
Club Med
Club Med Punta Cana is the brand’s flagship family property and you can see the focus on kids before you even arrive. Once your reservation is booked and paid in full, you can sign your kids up for the Mini Club program that offers a full-day kids club experience. Activities like crafts, tennis, archery, circus school, and so much more are included for ages 4 and up at Club Med. For kids under age 4, on-demand care is available for an additional fee. You can even get care for your kids during dinner hours so they can head off with their friends while you enjoy a quiet meal with your partner.
The property’s Mini Club facilities were quite impressive. There’s a zero-entry splash zone for cooling off when the temps creep up. Rooms for dining and activities along with playground equipment are also available. While we were on the property, we saw tons of kids participating in everything from water games to a pirate scavenger hunt!
Accommodations at Club Med Punta Cana
We stayed in the two-bedroom family room while at Club Med Punta Cana and it was very well-appointed for families of up to five people. There’s a parent room with a king-size bed and bathroom, along with a couch that can be arranged as a bed for a child if needed. A separate bedroom with two twin beds for the kids has plenty of storage area and a door that closes. There’s also a second bathroom in the hallway and a balcony. The family rooms are conveniently located in the middle of the property with easy access to Mini Club and the main restaurant, Hispaniola.
Club Med
If you have a baby coming along with you, the Club Med Baby Welcome Kit can be reserved in advance without additional cost and it comes with a baby bathtub, bottle warmer, changing table, umbrella bed, and stroller (this is also available at Michès).
In addition to the family accommodations, you can upgrade your stay to the Exclusive Collection space where you’ll have even more room to spread out. This part of the resort offers room service for breakfast, as well as a private pool and bar.
Head to the Zen Oasis when the kids are at Mini Club for some time in the adults-only pool. Accommodations are also available in this more secluded area of the property if you are traveling without little ones.
Dining at Club Med Punta Cana
Club Med
Club Med Punta Cana has three restaurants available as part of the all-inclusive package. Hispaniola is your go-to spot for buffet dining which kids really love. Breakfast is our favorite with the omelette station taking top marks, but the dinner buffet with the chocolate fountain is a kid favorite. Hispaniola offers a gorgeous oceanfront view, was recently renovationed, and is open for all three meals.
For a la carte service with ocean views, Indigo is your spot. We especially enjoyed our dinner at Indigo with perfectly grilled meats and delicious sides. The Dominican offerings like the curry plate were also quite tasty. Samana Restaurant was closed for yearly maintenance during our stay but it offers a variety of cuisines including Caribbean, French, Italian, Asian, and more.
Things to Do at Club Med Punta Cana
If you want a full day of activities, Club Med Punta Cana is ready to provide. The Club Med app will lay out all the activities available for the day from organized beach volleyball games to power walking. There are different nightly performances and the Michael Jackson show was particularly fun.
Before you arrive, check out the themes for the nights you’ll be there. This ranges from white night to black/gold or floral. We were surprised how much the guests got into this while we were there! It’s not mandatory of course but most people would dress up in that night’s theme before they headed to dinner. It brings a festive vibe to the dining and nightly activities.
During the day, you can head to the beach for some time on the lounge chairs or watersports like snorkeling and sailing. Gear is available to check out but if your kids have their own goggles or floaties they like, you might want to bring them with you. We did find that the lobby shops were quite well stocked with anything we might have forgotten to bring with us.
Adults should definitely plan to spend some time at the onsite spa while you are there. Services like massages and facials are available for an additional cost but we think it’s definitely worth it for access to the gorgeous indoor/outdoor spa space. You can even book a couple’s massage with a view of the ocean.
Getting to Club Med Punta Cana
If you are looking for convenience, this is the spot for you. Fly into Punta Cana International Airport and then grab your shuttle to the resort. The property is located just a 20-minute drive from the airport so you don’t have a long van ride after your flight. Couldn’t be easier!
Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda is an oasis in the Dominican jungle and you’re going to want to check it out. A 1.5-hour shuttle ride will get you from the airport to this Exclusive Collection property and you’ll be impressed by your gorgeous surroundings from the minute you walk through the open-air lobby and are treated to a refreshing drink.
At Michès, you’ll find the service to be elevated from access to a pre-arrival concierge to the superior room amenities. All rooms have access to breakfast room services which is very convenient when traveling with kids.
Club Med Michès is focused on sustainability and they even have a water bottling facility on-site, eliminating the need for single-use plastic bottles. You will find glass bottles available in your room and they replace them as you use them throughout your stay. You can also find bottle-filling stations around the property.
Accommodations at Club Med Michès
Club Med
Four villages make up the accommodations and you’ll find a different vibe in each. Explorer Cove is where we stayed and it had good access to the main area of the resort with pool, as well as the Mini Club and beach. Families will enjoy the Deluxe Family Room which has an adult room with a bathroom, a separate room with two twin beds for the kids, plus a second bathroom. Limited snacks and beverages are available in the in-room fridge and you’ll have a Nespresso machine as well.
Other areas of the property include Caribbean Paradise (a colorful area for families and couples), Zen Oasis (a relaxing area for everyone), and Archipelago (an adult-exclusive area with suites). No matter where you stay, adults have access to the Zen Pool (pictured above). Believe us when we say that you won’t want to leave this area once you’ve seen it! This gorgeous green pool has lots of spots for sunbathing or reading in the shade, as well as a swim-up bar where you can get fresh-made smoothies or cocktails as you like. Claim one of the hammocks and you’ll be in heaven.
Mini Club at Club Med Michès
Club Med
Just like at the Punta Cana property, kids ages 4 and up have access to the Mini Club program at Michès with similar offerings like circus school, water play, crafts, theater, and more. Infants from 4 months and up can have booked care for an additional price. The splash pad in the Mini Club area is available to families even if you aren’t using Mini Club that day. The dump bucket was a huge hit as you can imagine!
Dining at Club Med Michès
Club Med
The gourmet food offerings at Michès really shine and you can see that from the moment you wake up. Head over to the coffee shop where you can find hot and cold coffee drinks, frozen yogurt, pastries, and small sandwiches.
The buffet at Cayuco had pretty much everything you could want from fresh fruit to Asian bowls to fresh-made pancakes. Adults dining without their kids can enjoy their meals in the adults-only area if they wish. Don’t miss Club Med’s signature white chocolate bread while you are there! Be sure you check the schedule for nights when they offer the Secret Chocolate Room experience. The kids will go wild when they learn that they can have as much chocolate as they can fit on their plates.
Coco Plum focuses on local specialties with many different seafood options as well as non-meat options. Try the fish tacos while you enjoy the waves crashing nearby.
Coal & Copper is the resort’s steakhouse that welcomes guests for an additional fee. We had an amazing meal here and the staff was very attentive. The portions are massive so make sure you are hungry when you arrive!
Things to Do at Club Med Michès
Take advantage of all the activities offered at Club Med Michès as there really is something for everyone. The treetop palapa is a lovely venue for morning yoga before you head to the nearby Zen Pool. Tennis lessons, fitness classes, watersports, circus lessons, and so much more are on the agenda. The tough part—balancing the relaxing with all the activities.
Club Med Michès has an excellent spa that we got to visit during our stay. Enjoy your time before or after your treatment trying out the three plunge pools that go from refreshingly cold to hot. Any way you like to relax is available here.
Nighttime brings all sorts of performances like traditional Dominican dancers and circus acts. Be sure to check the Club Med app for the schedule for the day so you know what to expect.
Things to Know about Visiting Club Med in the Dominican Republic
You can arrange a day trip to Club Med Punta Cana from Michès if you want to check out the other property. Some people even split their visit between the two properties if they want a little variety.
The mosquitos come out at dusk in Michès. The resort provides bug spray and sprays the property as well but keep that in mind if you are sensitive.
Mini Club can book up so if you are sure you want to use it during your stay, book it as soon as you arrive at the resort or in advance if possible.
Many families bring strollers or foldable wagons with them. Floaties for the swimming pool are also allowed (and sold at the gift shop at both locations).
Club Med does a great job welcoming families, setting space aside for parents to relax without their kids, and bringing visitors together for shows and parties. It really is quite the fun all-inclusive family vacation!
—images by the author except where noted.
Editor’s note: This trip was hosted by Club Med but all the opinions belong to the writer.
It’s all about the little things when it comes to flying with a baby
You want to go places, but let’s face it: Your little bundle of joy may not be so joyous 15,000 feet up. Never fear, there’s no need to put off travel! Whether you’re trying to figure out where to sit on the plane or what you need to bring in your carry-on, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about flying with a baby to make your family’s jet-setting experience a little less bumpy. And if you’re looking for destination inspiration, check out our top spots to visit before the kids grow up.
First Things First: At What Age Can Your Baby Fly?
You may be ready to show off your new addition to long-distance relatives, but pediatricians recommend waiting until your baby is at least three months old—or had their first set of shots—before traveling by plane. Even though airplane air is filtered before it is recirculated, it is still a closed cabin full of people, and that might pose a challenge for brand-new immune systems. That said, common sense precautions are what doctors advise once babies are old enough to fly.
"In general, I think flying is relatively safe," said Los Angeles pediatrician Elle Raker. "I’d prefer everyone else was still masking, but unfortunately, that’s changed." Raker recommends maintaining social distancing when traveling, if possible, and keeping your hands and nearby surfaces clean while aboard the plane. That means sanitize, sanitize, sanitize! (Pssst: These airplane tray covers are super-convenient for keeping little fingers safe from dirty airplane trays!)
Booking Your Flight: The Best Time and Day to Fly with a Baby
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The flight you choose—what time and what day—can make all the difference when you've got a pint-sized plane partner. So follow these guidelines to set yourself up for smooth travels:
Book your flight for a Tuesday or Wednesday According to Airadvisor.com, flights on Tuesdays and Wednesdays are almost always cheaper and less filled than flights that bookend weekends or on Saturdays and Sundays. This means you'll have a better chance of having an empty seat next to you (which is like winning the lottery when it comes to flying with the fam).
Fly direct—or choose a long layover Ear pain tends to be worse on takeoff and landing—so minimize these painful times for your baby by choosing a direct flight! Flying direct also minimizes the number of dirty airport floors your little explorer will want to crawl all over. If you can't bear the thought of 17 hours on an airplane, try to book a layover that allows you to spend the night (or two!) in your layover city rather than just waiting at the airport. This gives you and your brood a chance to recoup and explore a new city. That's what Mommy travel blogger Carrie Bradley, former flight attendant and founder of FlyingWithABaby, advises. "I prefer breaking up the journey just so everybody can get some rest," Bradley said. "We like to take like 48 hours and make it a mini vacation."
Pick a morning flight Regardless of your baby's sleep schedule, Travel & Leisure says morning flights are the only flights you should book since they are the least likely to be delayed or canceled. Early morning flights are usually less bumpy, which means more time letting your little one out of the car seat to explore the cabin (a must for new walkers). If that isn't possible, and you've got a by-the-clock napper, book a flight that coincides with nap time.
Where to Sit On the Plane when Flying with a Baby
Laura Green
Where you sit on the plane matters! If you're able to choose your seats for the flight, here are some things to consider:
If it's an option, get a bassinet seat (located at the bulkhead seats) Got a baby under six months? Many long-haul or international flights offer travel bassinets that clip into the wall of the bulkhead seats. These can be lifesavers for harried parents (and exhausted infants). To score these seats, you'll need to book your seats super early. The rules vary by airline, but most bassinets are only available for infants under the age of one and less than 25 pounds. For details on where your chosen airline stands, check out this comprehensive list of bassinet seats on 50+ airlines.
Book a window and aisle seat and hope for an empty row Middle seats are always the last to be picked on a plane, so reserving a window and aisle ups the chances that you'll get all three seats to yourself (Note: You can even do this if you're flying with a family of four; just book two windows/aisle seats). You can always switch if someone does book that seat between you.
Don't put your baby in the aisle seat Passengers in the aisle are in the line of fire should luggage fall from the overhead bins during a flight (this happens more than you'd think, with an estimated 4,500 travelers hit by falling airplane luggage each year). These seats can also be risky for little ones who may get their fingers or feet pinched by carts coming through the aisles. Babies and children are safest in the middle or window seats.
Don't sit right next to the bathrooms, but don't sit too far away, either! Sitting too close to the bathroom means your sleeping baby may be startled awake by the crowd noise after mealtimes (when most people go to the bathrooms). But don't sit too far from one, either; you want to be able to dash to the changing table when blowouts strike.
Seats over the wing are the least turbulent If you are worried about turbulence, a seat near the wings will offer the smoothest ride. This makes a difference when you're trying to aim a little spoon into your finicky baby's mouth during feeding time.
Airport security lines aren't fun for anyone, but they're extra stressful when you're contending with wandering toddlers or fussy infants. Here are some tips to help you prepare for (or avoid!) the wait:
Formula & breast milk are allowed on your carry-on Nursing and pumping mamas, relax! According to TSA press secretary Carter Langston, you can bring your breast milk through the security lines—even if the baby is not with you at the time (such as if you're away on business and want to bring that "liquid gold" home for your baby). This is because the TSA considers formula and breastmilk "medically necessary liquids," which are allowed in carry-on baggage in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces (that's the limit on other, non-medically necessary liquids). As of July 2022, the TSA also updated its guidelines online to add that ice packs, freezer packs, gel ice packs, and similar items required to cool medically necessary liquids are also allowed through security.
Baby food is OK Food pouches and jars of baby food are also considered medically necessary, so they're also exempt from the 3.4 ounces rules.
It's easy to get TSA approved If you think getting TSA PreCheck status is a difficult process, we're here to tell you it's not! A quick online application and an in-person interview are all you need to do to get what is essentially a "fast pass" through the security lines. Even better, as long as your littles are under 13, they can whisk through security with you without needing their own TSA approval! Apply for the pass here: tsa.gov/precheck.
Kids don't have to take off their shoes If your kids are under 12, they don't have to remove their shoes when going through security.
Ask if there's a TSA Family screening line Many large airports have a special security line for families. The signage may not be obvious, so ask a security representative to direct you if you're not sure.
Take your baby out of her stroller or car seat This is another reason to keep your baby awake until you get aboard the plane. Babies must be carried through security (though they can be carried on you in a sling) with strollers and car seats going through the X-ray machine separately. (Strollers that don't fit through the X-ray machine will have to be inspected manually.)
Children under 18 don't need a passport or ID to fly in the United States—but they DO need a passport to fly internationally To apply for a passport, go to travel.state.gov to download the forms. And don't wait! According to the U.S. Passport Office, it takes 10-13 weeks to process a new passport and "expedited" passports take 4-6 weeks. You must bring your documents to your local passport office (you can't mail them in), and both parents need to be present (or have a notarized form saying why they're not).
Ultimate Supply List for Flying with a Baby
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Packing for a flight with babies and toddlers requires a LOT of prep work. Wipes? Check! Diapers? Check! Sanity? TBD. Here's a checklist of things to put in your carry-on when flying with a baby:
The Essentials:
Baby carrier/ sling - Even if you brought a stroller through the airport, a carrier is a great way to go hands-free in the airplane while your little one snoozes. Many a mom has strapped that baby to their bellies even when making a restroom trip. Trust us: you'll be happy to have your hands.
Pacifiers/comfort items - If your baby uses a pacifier, bring at least four of them on the plane (they WILL be dropped).
Breast milk, formula, baby food - Most airlines won't provide special meals for babies, so be sure you bring everything your baby will need for the flight (and extras in case there are any delays or if you're stuck on the tarmac).
Feeding supplies - Bibs, spoons, bottles, bowls (these bowls that stick to surfaces work great with the tray table)
Finger foods - Never underestimate the power of food to keep your baby busy. Light finger foods like puffs or teething crackers are great because they can keep on nibbling without getting too full.
Wipes - Separate from the wipes you'll put in your changing kit, an extra pack of wipes is essential for all those other times you'll be cleaning up your baby (and yourself).
Changing items - Diapers, wipes, changing pad. Bring double the number of diapers and wipes that your baby usually uses in the period you expect to be traveling. Tip: Keep all changing items in a separate bag (Ziploc bags work great) so you can easily grab them from your carry-on and dash to the bathroom.
Pull-ups, if your baby can stand - These make diaper changes way easier since you don't have to lay your toddler down on that tiny table in the tiny airplane bathroom.
Toys - For younger babies, rattles, teething toys, and other sensory toys will keep your baby entertained for short spurts; older kids may want books, dolls, or puppets.
Clips to keep toys/pacifiers from falling - If your baby is anything like every baby ever, they'll be tossing said comfort item overboard shortly after they get a hold of it. Toy clips like these are an easy fix.
Baby pain relief/medications - Bring a small "emergency bag" stocked with liquid baby pain relief (Tylenol for babies of any age; Advil for babies over six months), gas drops, and any medications your baby may need.
Burp cloths
Nursing pillow (we recommend the My Brest Friend) - This may be cumbersome to carry around, but it can work as a comfy bed for your baby post-feed (and you can pass the sleeping baby to your partner easily when your baby is asleep on the pillow) It also has an attached cup-holder for when Mom or Dad gets thirsty, too.
Sanitizing wipes/ tray covers - Your baby—and especially your toddler—will want to touch everything their little fingers can reach. So be sure to bring plenty of wipes and wipe down all nearby surfaces. For the trays, disposable tray covers are great, too.
Muslin cloth - These are great for covering babies when they're sleeping or as a nursing cover. They're also nice to cover the baby's head if they are getting overstimulated by the busy surroundings.
Blankets - One for comfort and warmth and another for the floor at the airport.
Extra clothes for baby AND parents (because blowouts happen!) - Choose clothes that are easy to take on and off (no buttons!) and bring layers for when the cabin swings from cold to hot and vice-versa.
Ziploc bags for wet/soiled clothes.
Car seat (and car seat stroller for the airport)- If you are buying your baby a seat (recommended, but not mandatory), bring your car seat so your baby has a comfortable, familiar place to nap. This also helps to get your baby (and your stuff) comfortably around the airport. You can gate-check the stroller part when you get on the plane, and it'll be ready for you when you step off.
Note: The American Academy of Pediatrics says the safest way for your baby to fly is in an FAA-approved car seat or airplane harness device approved for your child's age and size installed with the airplane's seat belt. Booster seats cannot be used on airplanes.
Gadgets Worth Buying (but not necessary)
Wraparound headphones - Older babies and toddlers will love being able to hear songs or stories with these wraparound fleece headphones that won't easily slide off and also keep your baby's head warm.
Lap baby - Carrie Bradley of Flyingwithababy.com called this "a really useful product for babies of all ages." It works like a seat belt to keep babies over three months secure on your lap so you can be hands-free and baby can be comfortable.
The Flyaway travel bed - This L-shaped inflatable mattress lets toddlers lie flat and sleep aboard the plane. It also works to fill the floor space so that items your toddler is playing with don't plunge into the abyss of the airplane floor. For a less-expensive option, these inflatable footrest pillows do the same thing.
Travel play tray - This tray attaches to the airplane tray table and has raised edges to keep small toys from sliding off the tray (it also covers that dirty tray table). It's also useful for toddlers who like to play with crayons or other small items.
Airline Perks You Should Know About When Flying with a Baby
Sure, flying with a baby can be a challenge—but it's not all a drag! Some airlines offer special perks to families traveling with babies and toddlers, including:
Baby and toddler meals Most airlines offer a kids' meal that you can order ahead of time, but only a few airlines (mostly international) will serve a specialized baby or toddler meal. These usually consist of jarred baby food or meals that are soft and easy to chew. Qantas, Air France, Emirates, Eva Air, Japan Airlines, Lufthansa, Malaysia Airlines, and Singapore Airlines are some of the airlines that offer this, according to this article from Flyingwithababy.
Bassinet seats As mentioned above, many long-haul flights offer bassinets (mostly suitable for babies under one) that can clip into the bulkhead wall. These seats usually cost more, since they're in the bulkhead row, but are worth it for parents of finicky little sleepers.
Priority boarding for families When you hear that announcement that "families with young children are welcome to board," grab your roller suitcases and go! Getting all those essential carry-on items in position is crucial, especially if you'll have stuff in the overhead compartments that you'll need to access mid-flight. If you're worried about your antsy toddlers, traveling mommy blogger Samantha Brown recommends having one parent stay in the terminal with the kids while the other boards with the stuff. That way, the littles can run around, then get on the plane after getting all their wiggles out.
Free toys and activity kits You read that right—free toys! According to Conde Nast Traveler, Lufthansa, Emirates, Nippon Airways, British Airways, Qatar Airways, Cathay Pacific, Qantas, Etihad, and Japan Airlines are among those who give out free kits for tiny passengers. These kits can include everything from stuffed animals and stickers to play dough and puzzles. Just ask the flight attendant when you board.
Worst-Case Scenarios: What To Do If…
Your baby may be all smiles at the airport, but what do you do if everything changes mid-air?
Ear pain If your baby is crying and tugging at her ears—or if the crying started just as the plane took off—it could be an earache. Give your baby a pain reliever that's safe for their age—Tylenol (acetaminophen) is safe at any age; Advil (ibuprofen) is safe for babies over six months. You can also ask the flight attendant for a cup of warm water and a washcloth; holding a warm, moist towel against the baby's ear may help relieve the pain. Also, keep your baby sucking or chewing since this can help equalize ear pressure.
*The American Academy of Pediatrics advises against giving Benadryl to children ages two and under unless it is directed by their doctors.
Vomiting If your child vomits while on the plane, the protocol is the same as if you were on land: give sips of breastmilk or formula (or water) to prevent dehydration. You can also ask the flight attendants for some washcloths to put on your child (and you) to keep the clothing changes and seat mess to a minimum. Thankfully, children under two rarely get motion sickness, so your chances that a bumpy flight will lead to a troubled tummy are small.
Teething Liquid pain relievers can help, as well as teething toys.
Nonstop crying If no amount of peekaboo, feeding, or rocking can ease your baby's cries, all you can do is try to relax. "Make sure you stay calm," says mommy blogger Jennifer Durban in this Howcast video. "If you're stressed out, your baby will be stressed out, so try your best to relax." She also suggested getting up and walking around the cabin. "It's amazing how fascinating a bathroom can be to a little one."
Remember: Flying with a Baby Is Only Temporary
You've packed. You've prepped. You've fed, rocked, and cuddled. Still, when it comes to air travel, it's anyone's guess how your new little human will react to the experience. So what do you do if nothing "works" and your baby is that baby, the one who cries the whole flight?
"I try to tell other parents you may think everybody is looking at you—and you may feel these eyes peering—but they’re not," said Bradley, who has taken her two young daughters on international flights since they were both infants. "You just relax and do your thing, and remember that it will end. It's not forever. Just concentrate on your family."
Bradley said it's also important to remember that it's not the kids who generally cause the most problems on board. "Sure, kids cry and it can be irritating—I get that," she said. "But it’s mostly fully grown adults we’ve had bigger problems with."
And she said it's OK for parents to ask the flight attendants for help. "Even if the flight crew aren’t parents, they can help. It’s what they do," she said, adding that, as a flight attendant, she held many a baby when the parents just needed a break to use the bathroom or have a bite to eat. "I would always tell parents, 'I'm happy to hold your baby.'"
Everyone’s favorite budget furniture store makes it easy to create a cozy space for kids
IKEA lovers, take note: you can transform your kid’s room from drab to fab with a few clever ideas. We’ve rounded up the coolest ideas below, from a genius take on IKEA bookshelves to the cutest kid-sized stools. It’s amazing what a bit of paint and creativity can do. Check out all the things you can make with a simple box or shelf! Whatever you’re looking to add, there’s an IKEA kids’ room hack for it. If you let your DIY imagination run wild, these IKEA hacks will put the perfect, unique spin on your kiddo’s room.
These pint-sized stools are the perfect blank slate for a whimsical upgrade. Get inspired by Project Kid to transform the FLISAT stool into your kiddo’s favorite animal.
With some KNAGGLIG wooden crates and a few other supplies, you can craft a mini market stand to help fuel your little one’s imagination. Get the full instructions from Little Lifelong Learners, including printables that will bring your sushi shop to life.
While this storage system isn't technically a table, all you'd need to do is glue a few base plates to the top of the unit. The colorful bins underneath make a perfect place to stash LEGO bricks, and you can easily buy two or three of these to create a whole LEGO wall! This IKEA hack uses the TROFAST set.
If you’ve got a cupboard that doesn’t do much but collect clutter, get inspired by @pagesofemma‘s IKEA kids’ room idea for turning wasted space into a cozy reading nook using IKEA’s Kallax picture shelf units.
Some books are just as beautiful on the outside as the inside. Turn those colorful picture books into a wall of art by repurposing the MOSSLANDA Picture ledge into a book wall like this inspiring one from Waco Book Mom.
The DUKTIG Play Kitchen is the perfect addition to your playroom as is, but that doesn’t mean you can’t jazz it up a little. Your imagination is really the limit when it comes to this creative IKEA hack, a paint job, new knobs, and even a tile backsplash are some options. To keep it easy simply grab some marble-printed contact paper and cover the countertop and the shelves for a classic kitchen made for a mini master chef.
The $30 LATT Table Set at IKEA is one of the best bargains you can find. There are so many fun ways to upgrade the table and two chairs, but for a gorgeous makeover, you actually won’t mind having in any room of your house check out this hack from Cook Like A Champion.
You don't need to invest a lot of money in a changing table you'll only need for a year or two. A quick hack to IKEA's Kallax Shelf unit gives you a changing area with plenty of storage, this is especially helpful for shared rooms. All you have to do is strap a changing pad to the top and when you're blissfully done with the diaper stage just remove it and keep the storage.
Stuffed Animal Catch-All
Shahrzad Warkentin
This IKEA hack is so simple, but it will change your life. If your kids have a zoo full of stuffed animals, clear the clutter quickly by popping open the FYLLEN Laundry basket and tossing them in. It'll keep the hoard of toys contained, and it makes for a fun game at clean-up time tossing them all in.
Art Supply Organizer
Shahrzad Warkentin
Keep all of those markers, crayons, and art supplies organized and easily accessible with this easy IKEA Hack with the KUNGFORS Container. Hang the rail and containers from the wall above a desk or craft table, and you keep all your supplies front and center for craft time.
These little guys want to move around and make noise, so give them all the tunnels, building blocks, and musical instruments
Get moving and grooving with these presents for one-year-olds (and under!) that they’ll enjoy long after celebrating their first birthdays. From a musical cube and bath boats to magnetic blocks and easy-to-grip teethers, these holiday gifts and toys for 6-month-olds to a year will make life more fun… and just a little bit louder.
Melissa & Doug Baby's First Sensory Toys Gift Bundle
There are so many things for baby to explore in this food-themed sensory set, from the six-piece PB&J take-along toy to a box full of gifts that baby can wrap, and the soft-stacking pineapple. Yum!
Find a nice spot in your home for this 6-in-1 toy because it's going to be around for a while as your little one transitions from tummy time to tunnel time. We love that you can pop off the zebra's keyboard for take-along tunes.
Baby's will love so many things about this wobbly bear! They can bat it around to see where it lands, drop it and watch it bounce, or give it a big snuggle when they need to take five.
We're smitten with that happy little crinkle stuffie bean! If you're tired of baby pulling out all your tissues, give them their own garden-themed tissue box to explore. Bonus: a book that teaches them how plants grow.
You won't believe how soft and cozy these blankies are, and Angel Dear clearly knows parents by offering not two, but three bunnies in the set to account for any lost-lovey disasters that may come up in the future.
Bath time just got a whole lot more fun with these floating boats in bright, beautiful colors. Tots can stack them or watch water rain out of their drain holes. Now all you have to worry about is keeping the water inside the tub.
From The Diary of Anne Frank to To Kill a Mockingbird, there are plenty of amazing lessons to learn from books that have no place being banned—and you're never too young to start learning.
Designed to give teething littles the best possible grip, this teether fits right onto their chubby little hands so they can gnaw to their heart's content.
The softest bamboo-infused viscose and the prettiest patterns make this a no-brainer for holiday gifting—and when the weather outside is less frightful, parents can plop their newly sitting kids down on the blanket just about anywhere.
Whether you're looking to entertain baby while you get a few things done or lull them to sleep at bedtime, this ocean-themed crib toy is completely mesmerizing. The drift-off feature gradually tones down the entertainment and a handy remote lets you turn it on or off from up to 12 feet away.
Your little bunny will learn about object permanence and practice their fine motor skills when they put the little stuffed bunnies in and out of the cute cottage, which comes with a handle so they can tote their friends around once they're officially walkers.
Calling all budding composers! Each side of this cube features a different instrument to delight baby's senses—think harp, flute, French horn, piano, and violin—with lights flashing to the tempo. They can layer individual sounds or play the full symphony, Mozart style.
Tots love water; parents love when said water can't spill all over the house. Consider this a win-win. The cuddly koala's tummy has a water bottle that's fun to squish during tummy time. And when spit-up happens (it will), simply pull out the water bottle and throw the koala in the wash.
When the handle is on, little ones can practice lifting this rattly toy kettlebell just like their parents. Without the handle, they can remove and stack the colorful rings that make up the ball and feature a different Spanish number on each.
Sitters have a new take on the world, and that means new toys to explore. Push-and-spin toys are great for building core strength and balance, and your babe will love the cause and effect of pushing the sun down to see the corn spin and pop.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors. If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication. All images courtesy of retailers.—
Make your life easier with these genius products from your favorite Swedish megastore
IKEA is known for its innovative and affordable styles, including adorable new items just for kids. But it’s the classics that parents go to again and again that we really love. From the beloved TROFAST storage to keep all those toys in check and an IKEA changing table for your nursery to versatile items for the inevitable living-room-play-room combo, here are some of the best IKEA products that make lives easier and more stylish at the same time.
DUNDRA Activity Table
Whether they like trains miniatures or Hot Wheels, the classic DUNDRA activity table will work for everyone. There's a large drawer for storing toys or art supplies and the wide top gives kids plenty of room to play.
They're too old for a high chair, but can't quite reach the table in an adult-sized one. That's where the URBAN junior chair comes in handy. It reaches the table so they can be a big kid, and there's a footrest for added support.
Whether it's for arts and crafts, school supplies, or extra kitchen storage, this versatile three-tiered storage cart is any parent’s saving grace. Made of powder-coated steel, it comes in three colors (turquoise, black, and white).
Do you need stylish storage for the playroom? Try the KALLAX. What about a chic upgrade for your entryway? The KALLAX. How about an affordable dining room hutch? Yup, the KALLAX! This storage system does it all and definitely deserves its spot on our list of best IKEA products for families.
No nursery is complete without this IKEA staple: a Scandinavian-modern rocking chair made for those midnight feedings or restless nights. It comes in several color combos, is easy to clean, and has a 10-year warranty.
"I don't need extra storage." Said no parent, ever. One of the best IKEA products of all time, you can use these storage cases for almost anything: clothing, linens, toys, kids' gear, the list goes on! And at this price, we're definitely stocking up.
This box is a collaboration between IKEA and LEGO®, and it's both a kid's and parent's dream storage container. Made with plenty of space to store bricks, the top has the classic LEGO® studs on top, which makes it a perfect place to build, too!
One of the best IKEA products for families, this extendable bed is perfect for transitioning from a toddler bed to a twin. At its minimum, it is just over 49 inches long and a little over 76 inches at its longest. The in-between size keeps it cozy for kids who aren’t quite ready for that giant bed or for bedrooms that are tight on space. (You must buy the slatted bed base and the mattress separately).
One of IKEA’s bestselling products, this little fuzzy rug looks just as good next to a grown-up bed as it does in a kid’s room. It’s the small dash of hygge your home needs. They also have a snugglier version, the ULLERSLEV.
Does your child's room look like a tornado of toys? The TROFAST storage combination with boxes has plenty of room to stash their stuff. The lightweight bins are easy to use, move or store. Use this pick with the Trofast lid to seal playthings in place.
IKEA storage benches come in a variety of styles, from upholstered to hall-tree style, but we love this simple wooden bench with built-in storage. It does double-duty as extra seating and a place to keep homework essentials, something in the age of work-and-school from home becomes invaluable.
Setting up for your child's next sleepover was never this easy! This folding mattress is super simple to use, fits under the coordinating SLÄKT bed, and keeps guests comfy all night long.
Make changing time easier with this set of four racks. Keep everything within arm's reach, and away from baby, with these mini baskets. use the convenient containers to store washcloths, skincare items, diapers, wipes, or anything else you need right now.
Do you have a picky eater? Make mealtime fun with this fruit and veggie-patterned place mat. Not only is this a completely cute home accent, but it can save your table from an oatmeal assault or banana bash. Bonus—the uneven underside keeps this pretty pick in place.
This simple storage solution, comes with casters, making it easy to cart around! Use the FLISAT to keep your tot's toys in check or roll it to the next play-day destination.
This sweet little bookshelf/desk duo is perfect for a toddler's room. They'll be able to see their favorite stories and have space to color or play, and parents will love the added storage at the bottom.
As parents, having furniture that'll last longer than a year or two is key. With the option of switching the twin bed from below to above, this reversible bed is perfect for a toddler as well as a tween.
Now your kiddo can go, on the go. The TOSSIG is perfectly shaped for the pint-sized set, fits easily over the regular-sized seat, and has anti-slip material on the underside.
While it might look very fancy, this stool is the workhorse of the group. It can be used in the kitchen, the bathroom, or in the kids' room. There is anti-slip material on the top and the bottom, so it won't move anywhere and neither will your kids.
Our list of best IKEA products for families wouldn't be complete without the iconic LILLABO wooden train set. Everything your budding engineer needs to set up a track through a town and over rivers is included, and it fits perfectly on the DUNDRA activity table.
Remember when you had disposable income? Now you have a baby, and this innocent little creature has somehow ravaged your credit card statement. It’s no secret that infants are expensive, what with the mass amounts of baby gear they require: diapers and carriers and clothes they won’t stop outgrowing. But there are plenty of ways to cut down on your spending so you can save up for your first vacation with baby or a family photo shoot. These smart, money-saving tips will help you stay on budget during that first (very expensive!) year.
1. Join Your Local Buy/Sell/Trade Groups
Join a Facebook Buy/Sell/Trade group and a Buy Nothing group in your area to find big-ticket items like cribs. You’ll also be able to sell any items that your kid outgrows or didn’t like to begin with. And be sure to check out Rebelstork, a resale website exclusively for baby goods, where you can find name-brand items at great prices. Upcycle your own items, and buy the resold, overstock or open-box gear you need for low prices.
2. Choose Baby Gear That Grows with Your Child
Some high chairs convert into seats for toddlers and older kids. Some cribs can be turned into toddler beds. And some car seats convert from infant all the way to backless boosters. When you’re searching, look for products called 2-in-1 or 3-in-1 to get the most life out of your goods. Here are some products that grow with kids.
3. Borrow, Don’t Buy
Never buy anything until you’ve asked all your friends with older kids if they have the items you need. Lots of parents save gear like bassinets and gliders if they plan to have another child, but they may not be using them at the moment. Maintain what you borrow (and the friendship!) and your friends might just lend you other pricey items, like balance bikes, as your baby gets older.
4. Ask Parents What You Really Need
If you straight talk with other parents before buying the items on your baby list you’ll probably be able to cross off more than a few items. The wipes warmer is a notoriously regretted purchase, and lots of people wish they hadn’t bought fancy baby food makers or baby swings their kid ended up hating (try it before you buy it!). Others discover they prefer the flexibility of a lightweight changing pad over lugging baby over to a changing table for every new diaper. Buy the must-haves and skip the nice-to-haves until you figure out whether your child would actually benefit from them.
You’re not likely to drastically change your lifestyle once you have a baby, so if you weren’t an off-road jogger before you probably won’t need a high-tech, pricey jogging stroller. A less expensive traditional stroller should work just great for your walks and errands. If you do decide to take a walk on uneven or unpaved ground, just put your baby in a carrier instead of a stroller, and you’re on your way.
6. Set Up Swaps with Friends
Set up clothing and gear swaps with your mom friends and mom-to-be buddies. Meet up at a local park where you can lay out all the items you’re giving away, or upload photos to a private Facebook group if you can’t all get together. Your pregnant friend might love your baby bathtub, maternity tops and newborn clothes, and you can snap up toys and clothes in your baby’s current size. Meet up a few times a year as seasons and kids’ needs change.
7. Request Group Gifts
For holidays and birthdays, ask family and friends to pitch in for big-ticket items, like a stroller, rather than buying toys or clothes you don’t need.
photo: Ridofranz via iStock
8. Swap Babysitting Duties with a Friend
A free babysitter for date night? Sign us up! Here’s how it works: Ask a couple you know and trust if they’d like to take turns babysitting with you. You babysit your friends’ kid(s) at their house while your partner stays home with your own kid(s) and the other couple gets a night out. Then they return the favor when you want a date night.
9. Sample Different Diapers Before You Buy
Ask moms for the best diaper and wipes and be prepared to get lots of different answers, depending on their babies’ body types, skin sensitivity, and other factors. To find out which ones work best for you, ask friends who use different brands to swap a few (five of each) so you can all test out multiple brands and see which work best for your child.
10. Buy Necessities in Bulk
Once you’ve determined your favorite brands, buying necessities like diapers, wipes and formula in bulk. Signing up for automatic deliveries can also save you lots of money in the long run.
They may not be able to talk, but babies have opinions, so don’t stock up on items like bottles and pacifiers until you’ve tested a few. These little ones are known for having strong preferences and changing their minds with no warning. Welcome to parenthood.
12. Stock Up on Clothing Basics in Larger Sizes
If the clothing you like is on major sale, buy items in sizes larger than what your child wears. Stick to items kids can wear year-round, like leggings and socks, rather than guessing what size your child might be in bathing suits and snowpants for next summer or winter.
13. Get Secondhand Special-Occasion Outfits
Hit up Poshmark, consignment shops or yard sales for special-occasion outfits, like holiday-themed baby clothes and fancy dresses. Many have only been worn once or twice and look brand new.
14. Keep Clothes Shopping Simple
We know baby clothes are adorable, but think about what you’ll really use before you splurge. The first few months, babies will mostly be sleeping and lounging at home with you, so onesies are the main thing you need. Babies can wear them on their own, under their clothes and to sleep in, so they’re worth buying in cost-saving multipacks. But you won’t need things like baby shoes until your child is walking outdoors. And if you plan to visit a climate that’s colder or warmer than yours, ask friends if you can borrow weather-appropriate gear instead of investing in something you’ll only wear a few times.
15. Less Is More with Nursery Decor
Once your baby gets mobile, you risk that tiny terror knocking down the glass snow globe before you can stop them. A wipeable playmat, soft pillows to sit and lay on, and baskets to hold toys and stuffies may be all the decor you need until baby gets older.
16. Keep Nursery Style Timeless
It’s so tempting to choose a theme for your nursery and do it up big. But sticking to fewer baby-specific colors and decor items means not having to buy all new stuff in a few years. And the more you can DIY, the cheaper it will be. Try these 16 ways to DIY your nursery on a budget.
17. Babyproof on a Budget
Babyproofing gadgets and services can be really pricey. But there’s a lot you can DIY for cheap, using items you may already own. Consider these 14 DIY ways to make your home safer for baby.
18. Find Free Local Fun
Explore your area for free spots you and your child can visit, from parks and walking trails to your local farmer’s market. A shady outdoor spot or a weekly free night at the museum gets you out of your home without an entrance fee.
19. Check Out Your Local Library
The library can be tons of fun for babies. Many libraries offer storytime and kids’ activities, so check the website or ask a librarian for a schedule of upcoming events. And you can save a lot of money borrowing baby books instead of buying them.
photo: iStock
20. Go Minimalist with Baby Toys
You know the old joke about babies liking the bag the gift comes in more than the gift. Well it tracks. Aside from a comforting lovie, sensory ball, mobile and stuffed animal, babies don’t need lots of store-bought toys. They’re interested in colors, fabrics, textures and noises, so household objects and even your purse or diaper bag hold their attention as well as toys do. And, in fact, interacting with you can provide most of their entertainment. From singing to imitating each other’s sounds and expressions to blowing bubbles and playing peekaboo, there are lots of free, fun ways to entertain your baby and have quality bonding time, which is your child’s all-time favorite thing. When you need a break from the action, give your baby some wooden spoons or plastic measuring cups from the kitchen and watch them have a ball all on their own. Here are 16 baby games you can play together.
21. Create Your Own Baby Classes
Instead of signing up for baby music classes and baby gyms, invite local moms to meet at a local park or other baby-friendly area. Bring small balls and noisemakers and have your own baby class. If you’re not sure what activities to try, YouTube is an amazing resource for free videos of baby gym class, baby music class, baby yoga and more. Watch a few and tailor a class to your kiddos.
22. Start a Mom Workout Group
Stroller workout groups are a great way to prioritize exercise while spending time with your baby and fellow new moms. But just as with the baby classes, ask friends or post on a local Facebook moms group to see who’s interested in meeting up weekly to take a stroller walk and then do a quick workout or stretching session. Again, YouTube is your best friend when it comes to finding high-quality free workouts at all skill levels, and geared to postpartum needs.
23. Don’t Fall for Baby Marketing
No, you don’t need infant Tylenol (cash grab!) or a special baby laundry detergent. Switch to a fragrance-free gentle detergent and you can wash the whole family’s clothes at the same time. The same goes for soap and body lotion. Choose a gentle, fragrance-free brand like Vanicream for baby’s sensitive skin and you can all use the same products.
24. Call Your Pediatrician Before Scheduling a Visit
Every baby concern may not require a doctor’s appointment and the co-pay that goes along with it. Call the nurses’ line first to see if they can help without you coming into the office. Take photos of any rashes or bumps and make detailed notes about your concerns and your child’s symptoms (like what time you noticed the fever and how high it was) to make it easier for them to help you.
25. Skip the Jarred Baby Food
Do you need to buy expensive jars of baby food? Not necessarily. Consider baby-led weaning, in which babies six months and up gnaw on finger foods instead of purees. If you’re not comfortable with that, make your own baby food in bulk from leftovers or fruits and veggies you bought on sale, and store it in your freezer. Freeze the purees you make in ice cube containers. Once frozen, transfer them to plastic bags. Each will be a one-ounce serving you can thaw out and heat up when it’s mealtime.