Travel Safety and Childproofing
Keeping children safe during travel can be a tricky proposition! From vacation rental balconies and giant theme parks to Grandma’s house and, of course, airports… there are many times and places parents could use help keeping little ones safe.
Here are some of my favorite products for travel safety and childproofing on the go. But first… be sure to PIN THIS to your travel board for future reference and to help others find it!
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Door Finger Guards
Why Shelly recommends it:
It helps keeps children from locking themselves in bathrooms and other rooms wherever your travels take you, while also preventing doors from slamming on little hands and fingers. Installs in seconds, slips off when ready for check out (or when a grown up is ready for privacy).
One may also work on some side-by-side refrigerators with continuous handles from top to bottom “snug fit” over both handles at the top of the doors to help childproof the fridge as well.
Find it online at: Amazon
Door Knob Covers
Why Shelly recommends it:
Just snap over standard door knobs to help keep children out of “off limits” areas. Non-permanent, installs and removes in seconds, and works with most standard (round) door knobs. Since they are simple for adults to use when opening doors (just squeeze and turn with an adult-size hand) they are also a great, no-fuss way to childproof while visiting homes of friends and extended family members without imposing on your hosts.
Find it online at: Amazon
Go Anywhere Portable Safety Gate
Why Shelly recommends it:
When children cannot venture into unsafe rooms and areas, you can all relax and enjoy your trip more. This travel safety gate is pressure-mounted with non-skid mounting pads so you can install it quickly without the need for hardware or risk of scratching surfaces.
It stands 28″ tall and fits doorways from 26.2″ to 42.6″ wide. Twists and folds for travel in its own carrying case. Not for use at the top of stairs. No tools required.
Find it online at: Amazon
Summer Infant Pop ‘n Play Portable Playard
Why Shelly recommends it:
The Summer Infant Pop ‘n Play weighs the same as a lightweight travel stroller at just over 12 lbs. and it unfolds in seconds (no pieces to sort and assemble!) to give your tot(s) 14 square feet of protected play space at 48″ W x 26″H.
It’s also indoor-outdoor ready with a water resistant floor, so bring it to the grandparents’ house or to the great outdoors. You might also like the optional sunshade, sold separately. Recommended for children 6 months and up.
Find it online at:Amazon.com
The Superyard for Travel Safety
Why Shelly recommends it:
Versatility! We’ve used this as a the regular “kid corral” as shown, and for all sorts of temporary childproofing (and dog-proofing) situations by taking advantage of the free-form options it permits as a “travel safety fence.” Great for visits to Grandma’s house, even better for the campground or beach–just hose off the dust or sand off when finished.
Includes six panels, each measuring 35″ W x 26″ H. Panels fold flat for storage and trips in the car, with a snap-on carry handle. You can also remove panels to create a smaller area when desired or add additional panels with the Extension Kit to create a larger play space. We have also used it to create a makeshift barrier around the Christmas tree. Not for use at the top of stairs.
Find it online at: Amazon
Tips: Linking toys attach easily to the side panels for added interest. Optional SuperYard XT Sun Shade also available.
Kid Kusion KidSafe Deck Guard
Why Shelly recommends it:
You might be surprised how many vacation rentals and hotel balconies have wide-spaced slats or balusters that make it hard to enjoy the “deckspace” with little ones around. This adjustable net system adds a layer of protection, helping to keep kids safe–and their toys on deck.
Attaches to vertical and horizontal railings with heavy Velcro straps for easy nonpermanent installation (unlike most others of this type). 3′ tall by up to 16′ wide.
Find it online at: Amazon
Halo SleepSack Wearable Blanket
Why Shelly recommends it:
SleepSacks are widely thought to help reduce the risk of SIDS, but they can also help minimize the risk of your baby or toddler climbing out of the crib at night–particularly when you can’t be sure ahead of time what the hotel’s crib might look like, or how tall the railings may be.
These cozy “blankets from home” can also help keep little legs from getting stuck between slats in some portacribs. Available in sizes up to XL, which fits 24 months.(See also: Travel Beds and Sleeping Solutions.)
Find it online at: Amazon
SafetyTat Child ID Tattoos
Why Shelly recommends it:
Disney World, Lego Land, and JFK are big, big places. These very clever tattoos let you add your cell phone number with a special pen and apply for up to 2 weeks of vacationing peace of mind (you can remove sooner if desired).
SafetyTats are waterproof, hypoallergenic, latex-free, and available in several different designs. Their allergy warning tattoos are also ideal for children with nut and other allergies who may be attending kids’ camps and supervised programs during their vacations.
Find it online at: Amazon.com
Guardian Angel Toddler and Child Safety Tracker
Why Shelly recommends it:
Extra protection and peace of mind for travel with curious (and quick!) toddlers and preschoolers. This cheerful travel safety gadget works two ways:
First, it’s just like a cordless phone locator with up to a 1600-foot range in outdoor settings, prompting a chirping sound on your child and increasing sound intensity on your monitor as you get closer.
Second, the wearable device has a panic or distress button function, so the wearer can activate for help if needed. Includes up to 4 trackers for multiple children — and works great to track your own keys, too!
Find it online at: Amazon
Mommy I’m Here Child Locator
Why Shelly recommends it:
If ladybugs aren’t your thing, you might prefer this option that attaches well to your child’s sneakers or belt without flapping and component that slips easily onto your key chain for enhanced travel safety and parental peace of mind. Activate the alarm for an 86 decibel beep up to 150 feet away from you. Also available in pink and brown.
Find it online at: Amazon
Brica “By My Side” Backpack Child Safety Harness
Why Shelly recommends it:
Ours made a 5-hour layover at Dallas Ft. Worth with an 18-month-old manageable. This toddler-sized backpack looks much like a grownup’s daypack, complete with water bottle (sippy cup) holder on the side and a second compartment on the back.
The “leash” strap can be unclipped when not needed (and stored inside the pack itself if you like). Fit small books, toys, and crayons in the back, or use it to store a few diapers and wipes for walks to the lavatory and restrooms.
Find it online at: Amazon
