Alright, here’s the truth: there are a handful of things you can't travel without. And no, we’re not talking about passports or plane tickets (although, of course, those are essential). We mean the clever travel must-haves that actually make travelling with kids feel manageable… maybe even fun.
If you’re travelling with little ones, you already know you’ll need snacks, patience, and a few genius products to make the whole process easier. From the pram that glides effortlessly through airport gates to the backpack that keeps passports, wipes, and snacks exactly where you need them, getting organised is everything.
We weren’t always this organised. In the beginning, we hauled way too much stuff, most of it never used, and still found ourselves digging through bags for wipes with one hand while juggling toddlers with the other. But after more than a few “never again” moments, we finally nailed down our faves that make travel (almost) feel easy. These aren’t just nice-to-haves. They’re the things we tried and tested.. Practical, stylish, and designed to make parenting on the go just that little bit easier (because we all deserve that!).
Here are our favourite travel essentials list:
1. Stokke® YOYO³
When it comes to travel strollers, size and convenience are everything. The Stokke YOYO 3 folds up small enough to fit into the overhead locker on a plane, making it a dream for parents navigating airports. But don’t let its compact size fool you—it’s sturdy and comfortable enough for everyday adventures too. Whether you’re strolling through busy terminals, exploring city streets, or giving tired little legs a break, this pram is a saver.
2. Stokke® JetKids™ BedBox™
Flying long-haul with a toddler? The Stokke JetKids BedBox is not just a ride-on suitcase—though it doubles as that too. It keeps kids entertained in the airport and it converts into an in-flight bed (genius!) that lets your little one stretch out and well-rested in the air
Shop the Stokke JetKids BedBox here
3. Premium Kooshy Kloud™
Comfort is king when travelling with kids, and the Premium Kooshy Kloud has earned its place in the travel kit for good reason. This inflatable pillow inflates in seconds and works as an armrest, lap pillow, or back support for babies and older kids alike. Its versatility means less physical strain on parents and more comfort for kids — whether on planes, trains, or car rides. Compact and travel-friendly!
Shop the Premium Kooshy Kloud here
4. 59S Pacipod
Parents know the panic that hits when a dummy or teat falls on the floor mid-trip. The 59S Pacipod — a compact, USB-powered steriliser that cleans pacifiers in under 60 seconds without boiling water. It’s a simple, hygienic solution that takes away the stress of keeping those essentials germ-free while out and about. Small enough to tuck in your bag and easy to use anywhere, it’s one of those “why didn’t I think of this sooner” items.
5. Tottie Travel Backpack
A reliable backpack is a non-negotiable for modern parents, and the Tottie Travel Backpack is designed by mums who truly get it. With 14 smart compartments, it keeps everything organised—from nappies and wipes to passports and snacks—and everything in between. The vegan leather finish adds a touch of style, while the included pram clips and change mat make it supremely practical. One of the best features? The hidden pocket at the base, perfect for easy in-flight access to essentials without the usual chaos.
Shop the Tottie Travel Backpack here
The Parent-Tested Packing Formula
Every item on this list earns its spot because it solves a real-life parenting problem—whether it’s keeping the kids comfy, the dummies clean, or your hands free. They’re not just nice ideas; they’re the best travel products we’ve actually road-tested (and sky-tested!) through airport queues, road trip chaos, and long-haul flights with toddlers.
Because when your list of packing items is dialled in, you spend less time searching through bags and more time enjoying the good stuff—like impromptu airport dances, mid-flight naps, and those first magical moments in a new place. And when travel feels smoother? Everyone wins.
What's one thing you never travel without?
For us, it’s the Tottie Travel Backpack—hands down. And for the ultimate travel bag duo? Pair it with the Tottie Bum Bag—the compact, hands-free hero that keeps your phone, passport, and snacks close while your backpack handles the rest. It’s the kind of combo that makes you feel like you’ve finally cracked the parenting travel code.
What are your go-to travel products or things you can't do without?
These five parent-approved essentials are our non-negotiables. rom in-flight naps to clean dummies in under a minute, they’ve been through it all—and passed with flying colours. If you’re pulling together your own travel essentials list, start here—and thank us later.
What is one super-useful item you can't travel without?
The 59S Pacipod—because nothing saves your sanity faster than instant, fuss-free sterilising on the go. It eliminates up to 99.9% of germs from small items like dummies, teethers, bottle teats, toys, and more!
So tell us—what are the things you can’t (or won’t) travel without? Share your must-haves with us on Instagram @tottie.shop or come say hi at the One Fine Baby, best baby expo in Australia.
Travelling with kids? Don’t miss our guide: Must-Have Travel Essential Lists for International Trips with Kids
