What’s in My Bag: Family Edition

Written By Briana Lodick

Traveling used to look so different for me … and then I became a mom. I traded my solo adventures for stroller adventures. Where I was once walking 20,000 steps a day in Istanbul without hesitation was now replaced with trying to push a stroller up the seven hills (Note: I do not recommend this). With my travels looking different, of course what I carry with me had to change too.

Every traveler has their must-haves, but as a mom who always travels with kids, my carry-on is carefully packed with essentials that make our trips smoother. Over the past five years, I’ve traveled domestically and internationally, with our child and with two, solo-parenting trips and family adventures with my husband. May bags have been packed, repacked, overpacked, and pared down to the essentials.

these days, all my travels fall under the “family travel” umbrella, but this list will be helpful even if you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends. Here’s a look inside my carry-on:

The Esssentials

If nothing else, don’t forget your passport and boarding passes — non-negotiable! Beyond that, your choice of bag matters. Carry-ons come in all shapes: roller bags, weekenders, slings, and purses, to name a few. Personally, I swear by a backpack. It’s light, practical, and keeps my hands free to carry a tired child or hold little hands in crowded spaces.

A few types of bags I recommend:

  • Backpack | Hands-free and family-friends

  • Weekender | Stylish and roomy for quick trips

  • Roller Bag | Classic and easy on the back

  • Sling Bag | Light and compact for minimalist travelers

You can not go wrong with a BÉIS bag, my personal favorite. For the budget conscience traveler, check out these sets: 3-Piece Luggage Set | 5-Piece Luggage Set | 6-Piece Luggage Set

Inside your bag you’ll want a wallet, your travel documents, and an extra set of clothes (you never know when you’ll face a delay or lost luggage).

Health + Hygiene

  • Toothbrush + Toothpaste

  • Mini Toiletry Kit (lip balm, wipes, hand sanitizer, lotion — just enough for a mid-flight refresh)

  • Electrolytes (LMNT, Liquid IV, or WaterBoy are my go-tos for hydration)

  • Snacks (granola bars, trail mix, applesauce pouches, chickpea puffs — familiar favorite are key for kids)

  • Reusable Water Bottle (always empty through security, then filled before boarding)

Technology + Entertainment

Kids + Family

  • Small Blanket + Neck Pillow (layers keep everyone comfortable as cabin temps shift)

  • Child Specific Entertainment (busy boards, sticker books, coloring pads, and a tablet with pre-downloaded shows)

  • Extra Clothes (for both you and the kids — pus diapers and wipes if needed; for longer trips, consider buying supplies at your destination)

Pro Tip: For bay gears like strollers, wraps, and travel cribs, check our our “Baby Travel Must-Haves” guide.

The Muslim Edit

As a Muslim traveler, a few extra items always make their into my bag:

Final Thoughts

Every family — and every traveler — has a slightly different version of “what’s in my bag.” For me, it’s all about striking a balance between comfort, practicality, and faith. Having these essentials packed means I can focus on the journey itself instead of stressing over what I forgot.

So, whether you’re a family heading on a big adventure or a solo traveler gearing up for your next trip, think of your bag as your little lifeline in transit — packed with everything you need to make the journey just as enjoyable as the destination.

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Briana Lodick
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