The Best Travel Gifts for New Parents

Just because he became a father doesn’t mean your favorite traveler has to become a homebody too. Of course, it can be more difficult to live with a small person who is very attached to him, but it can be more fun than he imagines.

We’ve found a variety of gifts that make traveling so much easier for babies and toddlers that he’ll never want to go anywhere without them – both the gifts and the kids.

He already loves and trusts Doona for its car seat and stroller travel system, so he’ll be thrilled to see that they’ve created the world’s most compact folding trike. Designed for children ages 10 months to 3 years old, it transforms into five different modes so parents can push little ones and let older kids ride alone. Much more fun than a stroller, it will get him and his mini me through the airport without tears. It then folds easily to be thrown into the overhead compartment. Price: $300

Getting little ones in and out of car seats can be a challenge, but Graco has changed the game with a swivel feature that will make Dad’s life a lot easier, especially if he’s planning on making frequent stops on a road trip. Of course, safety comes first and this seat protects children from all sides and can be used rear-facing or forward-facing or as a booster. It also has a headrest that adjusts to 10 different positions to keep children safe and comfortable as they grow. Price: $349

One of the best inventions of all time, this baby carrier cover is perfect for parents heading to cool destinations. With its water-repellent outer shell and plush lining, it keeps babies cozy whether they’re facing Dad or the world. It even has slots for his hands so he can hold them. The cover also fits all strollers and car seats, making it a must-have at home or away. Price: $100

A diaper bag is essential for new parents, but Dad is probably more interested in practicality than cuteness. Luckily, this one has both in spades, so anyone will feel good carrying it on even the most luxurious vacation—especially in sophisticated black. It fits easily into a stroller and has plenty of pockets, pouches, and even a mini changing pad. Plus, it has a dedicated safe space for his laptop so he can work while baby sleeps. Price: $215

Whether they’re waiting for a flight or spending the night in a hotel, this comfortable foam mat gives Dad a clean, safe place to put the little ones. It’s even waterproof so he can use it outdoors and clean it right away. Older children will love the design, with its roads and parks, and will enjoy playing with their own toy cars and trucks. Babies will find it soft and comfortable and parents will be happy to rest their arms. Price: $49.99

Having to change a baby on the plane or at a rest stop is so much easier with one of these adorable magnetized onesies. Made from super-soft, breathable, temperature-regulating Tencel modal, it has a magnetic closure, meaning no snaps and zippers that can take forever to work properly. It also features foldable grips to keep your hands and feet comfortable on air-conditioned flights. You can choose from dozens of cute prints, but this one is perfect for spending long weekends at the lake. Price: $40

Rear-facing car seats are safer for babies, but if a parent is driving alone with their child, it can be disconcerting not being able to see what’s going on back there. This shatterproof mirror is a game changer, allowing him to keep his mind on the road while keeping an eye on his precious cargo. Price $19.96

Vacations offer lots of cute photo opportunities, but let’s face it, babies aren’t always the most cooperative subjects. Thanks to the innovative Looky Lou, all Dad has to do is attach this cute rattle to his phone and suddenly everyone is looking in the right direction and smiling. The package comes with a board book introducing little ones to Lou the lion, so they’ll be especially happy to see him whenever dad wants to capture the moment. Price: $29

Since kids are unpredictable and accidents happen, give Dad some peace of mind with this trio of different-sized first aid kits to prepare him for anything. He can keep one in the car, throw one in the diaper bag, put one in his luggage. Well organized and easily accessible, the kits include everything from bandages and ointments to nosebleed tampons, tick removers and burn gels. Hopefully he never has to use it, but if he does, it will definitely be the gift he will be most grateful for. Price: $124.97