Travel

Strollers for Babies: Rock + Stroll with the Mockingbird

Every baby needs a safe set of wheels, and it’s always a bonus if it’s designed for a parent’s need-a-third-hand-lifestyle. The Mockingbird stroller provides this and so much more for avid stroller users who dream about a reliable, always-there-for-you option.

Since safety comes first, the Mockingbird stroller has exceeded the state and federal requirements, and internally, underwent one of the most rigorous testing programs in the industry.

Then, of course, there are those unpredictable parenting moments. We all know that walks do not always go as planned. The unexpected is so innovatively addressed with the one-hand functions: There is a one-hand fold, one-hand child bar pivot, and a one-hand safety harness release. If you’re carrying babe in one arm, this convenient feature is seriously a game-changer.

For next-level coverage during those unpredictable moments, the premium, durable materials simplify the unknown (think milk spills, random downpours). The canopy is water, stain and weather resistant, while the easy-to-clean nylon seat welcomes messes.

And NOW Mockingbird has launched its double stroller. This brand new model stroller launched during quarantine and has already sold out SIX times! The single-to-double stroller is priced at $395 and comes with one seat. A second seat kit is sold separately for $120. If you purchase them together, they are bundled at $495, making it a full double stroller for under $500! Here are all the awesome features:

17 various configurations (works with car seats and the Mockingbird bassinet)
Customizable Designs
UPF 50+ all-weather canopy includes a see-through peekaboo window and an attachable full coverage sunshade
Go-anywhere wheels mirror the smooth ride of air tires, minus the potential to pop or go flat
A generously sized basket holds all the essentials up to 25 lbs
And, of course, a Lifetime Warranty

Since cost is usually a factor when developing a plan for our endless supply of all things kid related, the value the Mockingbird brings is substantial. Its direct-to-consumer model cuts out the markup in the middle—saving customers at least 40%. Also, due to this model, Mockingbird is able to offer an at-home trial period of 30 days, and they provide free shipping both ways. We love thoughtful customer service strategies and totally appreciate that.

Lastly, since we travel like we’re off to another country every time we leave the house, the eye-popping amount of storage space can house your on-the-go essentials including (but not limited to, of course) diaper bag, extra clothes, umbrella…you know the drill.

As you can see, the Mockingbird stroller keeps convenience for the parent, and safety and comfort for the babe at the forefront of its thoughtful design. We love it—and would love to know your thoughts. Take it out for a spin and let us know what you think in the comments below! You can learn a little more about Mockingbird here, too.

Thank you to Mockingbird for making this sponsored post possible – we are so appreciative!

Real Mom Review: Zoe XLC Single Stroller

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

Our Real Mom Reviewer, Shawna, is crazy about the Zoe XLC Single Stroller! Shawna tried the Babyzen Yoyo and the Mountain Buggy Nano V2, but feels the Zoe is superior to the competition. Read her thoughts and details about the Zoe XLC below.

Shawna W.: “Not only is the Zoe sleek looking but it is the easiest umbrella stroller to use by far. With one simple movement, you can open and close it. It also folds up to be extremely compact with a strap that allows for easy carrying. I have tried two other popular brands and the Zoe has exceeded both in appearance and practicality. For a mom on the go, I would highly recommend this product!”

What you need to know about the Zoe Stroller:

The Zoe Stroller is great for travel and everyday use.
It only weighs 11 pounds, accommodates a child up to 50 pounds and features an amazing canopy.
When folded, the stroller fits in a small trunk or overhead compartment of an airplane.

Click here to add the Zoe XLC Stroller to your registry.

Claire Holt’s Motherhood Must-Haves

by Abby Ludwig Leave a Comment

We are so excited to have teamed up with Claire Holt again to highlight her favorite products now that her little guy has turned one! In the blink of an eye, her cutie has gone from infancy to rolling over, then eating and is now on the move! Here are some of Claire’s top must-haves that have helped her throughout her first year and beyond as a new mom! Plus, we love Claire’s social media posts about motherhood, especially as she gets ready to welcome baby #2– be sure to follow her on Instagram!

Fourth Trimester Must-Haves

Baby K’tan: I really loved using this wrap when James was a newborn. He instantly calmed when I wore him and it allowed me to actually get things done! It was so easy to put on (which was very important to me as I struggled with some of the other ‘rubix cube’ wraps), and I was able to pop it in the washing machine to keep it clean. Highly recommend!

Magnetic Me Onesies: These are a MUST!!! We tried many different types of onesies and these are the clear winners. They are so easy to snap, which is crucial for middle of the night changing and bath time fussiness. I love love love love this brand.

aden + anais Swaddles/Blankets: SO beautiful, soft, and very high quality. We really love these and they make great gifts!

Diaper Dékor Plus: The best part about this pail is how easy it is to empty. You simply cut the continuous liner on the side of the pail, tie a knot, and you’re good to go. It’s handsfree and really effective at trapping odors.

Travel Must-Haves

Doona Car Seat/Stroller: This is my absolute favorite baby product. We traveled with James from a very young age and this car seat/stroller made our lives so much easier. It’s lightweight, durable, very comfortable, and switches easily between the two modes. My only wish is that it came in a bigger size, as James grew out of it by 6 months. This is a MUST HAVE if you plan on traveling or just want to save a little space in your home!

Hatch Baby Sound Machine: Awesome product for home or on-the-go. It has such a wide variety of sound options and also works as a night light. We travel with it everywhere – it really helps to keep him in a deep sleep

4moms Breeze Playard: Really great for travel – so easy to set up and pack away. The mattress is super comfortable. We use this for sleep and for playtime.

Skip Hop Pronto Portable Changer: Really great for those times when you don’t want to lug around a large diaper bag. I found it very useful when I had to change him in places with limited space (like a plane bathroom!).

Ergobaby Omni 360 Carrier– I really love this carrier! It’s so easy to use and James loves facing both inward and outward. It was invaluable on my recent trip to Australia – I walked up and down the plane aisle wearing him for many hours. It saved my back and my sanity. While I love the Baby K’tan for newborns, this worked better for me once James got a little bigger.

On-The-Go Must-Haves

Nuna Pipa: We brought James home from this hospital in this car seat and I used this when we weren’t traveling until he was around 6 months old. The Nuna Pipa is a great design and James always seemed very comfortable in it. Safety is obviously the main priority and I always felt confident that he was safe and secure.

Peg Perego Primo Viaggio Convertible Car Seat– Obsessed with this seat. Now that James is bigger he is much more comfortable in this style. It’s beautifully made, very secure, and easy to clean. Huge fan.

Artipoppe Carrier: Another of my favorite carriers. This carrier is SO gorgeous. The quality is incredible, the patterns are really unique, and when I’m wearing it, strangers always ask about it!

Silver Cross Jet: LOVE this travel stroller. It’s so simple to fold, becomes incredibly compact, and most importantly is super comfortable. It also looks really stylish. James even prefers this stroller over the larger version. So glad silver cross released this model!

Sleep Must-Haves

Colgate Natural I Crib Mattress: Love that this mattress is eco-friendly and all natural. It’s hypoallergenic, very safe, and very comfortable.

Magic Merlin Sleepsuit: This suit was really helpful when we transitioned James from the swaddle. He slept really well and most importantly was safe in his crib. We didn’t use it for long but it was a very valuable tool when we needed it.

Crane Humidifer: We use this in the winter months. I like that it dispenses a cool mist making it safe for infants. The design is stylish and it’s easy to use.

Breathable Crib Liners: This liner stops James from getting his arms and legs caught in the crib bars. Love that it doesn’t restrict airflow and is a safer alternative to crib bumpers.

Playtime Must-Haves

4moms mamaRoo4: An excellent infant seat option starting right at the newborn stage. This seat has multiple movement patterns and is a great way to keep baby calm during playtime!

Monti Kids: I am a huge fan of Montessori and love that this is an age-appropriate subscription service. The wooden toys are beautifully made and specifically designed for development. The subscription provides parents/caregivers with access to the Monti Kids Learning Centre, which gives instructions and shares research. I did have an issue with the Level 1 mobile. I couldn’t collapse it and took up a large amount of space. Upon checking their website, it seems that they’ve addressed this and the new mobile is adjustable! All of the other toys are really great.

Toki Play Mat: Really great for newborns, it’s made of very soft organic material and has a machine washable cover. It’s portable and comes in lots of great prints.

People Toy Company- Mochi blocks: James is obsessed with these toys! I love that they’re free of harmful chemicals and made from rice – makes me feel better when they spend most of the time in his mouth!

DockATot: The DockATot does an amazing job at keeping the baby cozy. Great for supervised lounging and playtime. Plus it is super portable.

Feeding Must-Haves

Comotomo Bottles: These bottles are the best! We tried glass at first, but they were heavy and I was always worried about dropping them. I love that the Comotomo is made of food-grade silicone, easy to clean, and the nipple mound is quite large, which resembles a breast. By far James’ favorite type of bottle.

Boon Lawn Drying Rack: Large, easy to clean, and keeps the bottles in place as they dry. It seems very simple but I tried a number of different racks and this was the best.

Inglesina Fast Table chair: This is so great for travel! He does much better in this than a traditional restaurant high chair. Easy to clean and very comfortable.

Wabi Baby UV Sterilizer: Another of my must-have items. Great design, highly effective, and easy to use. Sterilizes and dries toys and bottles very quickly. We love it so much that despite the size, we packed it in the back of the car and brought it on vacation with us. (Side note – the Wabi Baby UV Sterilizer is currently

Beaba Babycook: We make our own organic food for James when we can (it’s a little more difficult when traveling), and this product makes it very easy. It steams AND purees the food, which means less equipment and fewer dishes! We have transitioned to more textures so don’t use the puree function as much anymore, but we still use it to steam fruits/veggies.

Clothing Must-Haves

Saint Haven Clothing: I am in love with these clothes. They are so soft yet incredibly durable. James lives in the one-pieces.

Little Crowns NYC Hats: The most adorable little hats. Super stylish and adjustable as they grow. Most importantly, he never tries to rip them off!

Thank you SO much to Claire for all of her insight and photos of her little guy and his favorite items.

Newborn Bath Newcomer – Lavelu Lounger

by Gugu Guru 1 Comment

There is a newborn bath newcomer in town that we want to tell you about – the Lavelu Lounger. If you have a newborn or a little one on the way, you should definitely check out this newborn bath sink insert. The Lavelu Lounger is an innovative super comfy, ergonomic infant lounger to use in your sink*. It is a universal cushion, which means it is constructed in a flexible and form-fitting design that will be comfortable for baby in almost all kitchen and bathroom sink types. The Lavelu Lounger ensures both a safe and enjoyable newborn bathing experience for your little one.

So why are we loving the Lavelu Lounger? Did you know that some babies hate bath time? This is sometimes because the baby is cold or just plain uncomfortable on the insert. Parents love that the Lavelu lounger is not a stiff, hard sink insert like the other products out there. The mom-invented Lavelu Lounger is the only universal, fully supportive, baby sink bath insert designed to conform to your baby’s body shape, providing ultimate head and neck support in any sink. It will really fit in any sink type – square, round, kitchen or bathroom sink; RV, camper, home or hotel, you can take the Lounger with you wherever you go!

The Lavelu is also a unique newborn bath cushion because it is waterproof. Made with unique (and extra soft!) material, the sink bath Lounger is designed to dry quickly and efficiently by simply hanging from your shower rod or towel rack. Many other sink inserts that we have tried out don’t offer this same ease of cleaning – not the Lavelu Lounger! Simply use it, drain it, squeeze it, hang it!

**It’s important to note that the Lavelu is NOT
intended to be used in anything but a sink.**

By the way, the Lavelu lounger comes with a satisfaction guarantee! We think that Lavelu would make an awesome baby shower gift, especially when paired up with some comfy towels and safe baby skincare.

Check it out: we also feature the Lavelu Lounger in our post about family RV travel with an infant because it is the ultimate sink insert when you’re hitting the road.

Thank you to our partner OA Creative – the makers of the Lavelu Lounger for making this sponsored post possible. Please note that this post uses Amazon affiliate links.

Family RV Travel with a Baby – FAQs

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

Family RV trips are increasingly popular right now due to travel restrictions around the world. However, if you have an infant and you’ve never traveled in an RV or camper before – you probably have lots of questions about how to select an RV and what you’ll need to ensure your family is comfortable. Don’t worry – we have you covered! We are so excited to be teaming up with two experts for this piece on family RV travel with your babe: RVshare and RV mama & travel blogger Shannan Panganiban. And, as a bonus, we’re including some of the jaw-droppingly gorgeous RVs available from our friends at RVShare.

Family RV trips or even extended living is totally possible with a little one! In fact, taking an infant in an RV or camper is a great time to do so, because with all the amazing products for small spaces available now, you or your baby won’t ever have to feel uncomfortable while on the road. RV travel is also an affordable and unique experience that will give your whole family memories of a lifetime!

Here are some of my best tips for family RV tripping with babies:

When it comes to gear and baby products, always think about any additions to the space before bringing something new in. Does this product fit your space well? Does it serve multiple purposes? In a small space like an RV, making sure that everything is a necessity and can transform to your area is huge.
Have a mindset of “I get to travel!” versus “I can’t have this.” AKA have an attitude of gratitude. Living and traveling tiny – for however long you decide to do so – is an awesome experience and instead of focusing on what won’t work in your family RV space, changing your mindset to be “I GET to take this adventure” can really help remind you why you are doing this and the incredible memories that will come with it.
Get a comfortable car seat for your baby! With all the time that you will be spending driving, having a car seat that is cozy and comfortable for baby will make everyone’s life just that much easier. Remember: if you are traveling in a tow behind camper, then the family will be in your towing vehicle just like any drive. Also, if in a motorhome, the car seat can NEVER be in a front seat. Most RV’s have seats with latches to secure a car seat in the back.
Make sure that there are no loose objects when you travel. For everyone’s safety, but especially for the safety of your baby, make sure that there is nothing that could be a projectile when you are on the road. This is one of the most important steps – securing your family RV for travel – to ensure safety along the way.
Use a white noise machine. You are in a small space & you will get to hear just about every sound in your RV. Turning on a white noise machine for baby while they sleep will help drown out the sounds from the rest of the camper. Living and traveling in an RV is unique, but you can keep a schedule just like you normally would. Most RV’s have a door to the bedroom or a curtain of some kind. Dividing the space and creating a bed time routine as normal can help babies feel comfortable and secure in order to fall asleep just as they would in their own room at home.
Choose campsites wisely! Finding places that are family friendly and rated for a safe environment are important factors to look into when choosing new family RV destinations to camp at safely.

And what about baby must-have products for family RV travel?

The Lavalu Lounger is perfect for RVs. Photo courtesy of Karissa Ries.

An adjustable bath is a must for a baby! Not only will it make bath time easier to have a tub that they really fit in, but you can flatten it out for easy storage when it is not in use. Gugu Guru loves the Lavelu Lounger universal sink bathing insert.
As far as a comfortable car seat that exceeds safety standards goes, Gugu Guru loves the revolutionary Clek Liingo – an infant car seat that does not require a base.
A small white noise machine will be a great investment to drown out any sounds from the rest of the RV while baby naps! Gugu Guru loves the Yogasleep Travel Mini.
A high chair that attaches to the table will allow you to have a safe place for baby to sit and eat without having to take up extra space with a free standing chair. Also, you can remove it and bring it outside to attach to a picnic table. Gugu Guru loves the Chicco QuickSeat Hook-on Chai r.
A portable bottle warmer is key if your babe is used to receiving warmed milk. Gugu Guru loves the battery operated bottle warmer from The Baby’s Brew.

Your Family RV Travel Frequently Asked Questions Answered by RVShare

What’s the biggest mistake first-time RV renters make?
The most important thing a first time RVer can do is get a thorough walk-through of the unit from the owner. Things like operating the generator, electrical hookups and dumping the water tanks are all crucial to using the RV, and need to be done properly. A common rookie mistake is not knowing how to operate the awning if the RV you’re staying in has one. Even things that seem simple might be a little tricky, and it’s important to read any manuals provided by the owner carefully, and ask as many questions as you have.

What kind of RV should I rent? What are the types and differences between them? How much room will I need for a family of four?
You do not need a special driver’s license to drive an RV. The two biggest things to consider when choosing an RV is whether you want to tow or drive it and how many people will be sleeping inside. If you prefer to drive it, you need to decide your comfort level, we compare mid-sized options to driving a truck, and large options to driving a bus. If you want to tow, you need to make sure your tow vehicle can accommodate the trailer. Finally, consider the amenities that are important to you. You can find full functioning kitchens and bathrooms, a fun outdoor space, or a unit that allows pets.

You’ll be surprised how comfortable a family of four can fit into even the smaller RVs! Many RVs have creative layouts that optimize space and comfort. This typically includes bunk beds for kids and slide-outs for the kitchen and living room spaces. Each family is unique, but Class C’s are a great place to begin your search for a family of four.

Can I give my rental a test-drive? Or have a look first?
Yes, you’ll be able to spend time with the owner before you drive off in the RV. Most owners will go on a test-drive with you, as well as walk you through electrical and water hook-ups to make sure you are comfortable with everything. They are also very helpful with answering any questions that come up once you hit the road.

I realize the cost varies with style and size, but what can I expect to pay on average, per night?
Yes, it does vary. The average rental is about $150 including all fees and taxes.

Besides a per night fee, are there other costs to consider?
Yes, there are other fees to consider. However, since each RV rentals on RVshare are independently owned, fees can vary and are at the owner’s discretion. Potential fees can be for cleaning, dumping waste and used water, insurance, or other service charges. The owners can optionally charge for excess mileage and excess generator usage. All charges will be listed out on your quote prior to booking.

Are kitchen supplies, bedding, grills included? Can you bring your own or rent from the RV rental company? Are these usually included in RVShare rentals?
Included amenities also can vary between listings, but you will typically find all that you’ll need for your trip, including kitchen supplies and linens are provided. We always recommend checking with the RV owner prior to booking to see what is included if it does not say in the listing.

What other amenities might be available?
Listings on RVshare also include options for deliverable and stationary RVs. For delivery, the RV can either be delivered to the final destination, meaning no driving for the renter, or the owner can meet somewhere along the renter’s journey.

For stationary rentals, the RV is already parked, set up, and ready to go. This means no driving for the renter, as the RV is typically parked permanently at a campsite or on the owner’s property.

There are also options to instantly book, too. You don’t have to wait 24-48 hours for the owner to confirm.

Gas mileage: what’s the average?
Gas mileage varies on the type of RV. You can expect about 6-8 mpg with a large Class A, 18-25 mpg for a Class B, 8-13 mpg for a Class C, and 10-18 mpg for a fifth wheel travel trailer.

What about insurance: is it included? Will I have to purchase extra? What’s your recommendation?
Standard insurance coverage will be automatically included in the quote when booking an RV that is covered by RVshare Rental Insurance. Standard coverage includes up to $200,000 in comprehensive and collision coverage, as well as free 24/7 roadside assistance. Renters have the opportunity to pay for upgraded coverage at the time of booking.

I’m worried about driving and parking an RV. Any advice?
That’s understandable – a lot of people are nervous to drive an RV at first! But most RVs are not much different than driving a large truck. Keep in mind these tips when driving and parking your RV:

Familiarize yourself with controls before driving
Start slow and allow yourself to get used to the new perspective. You’re probably not used to sitting up that high!
Re-calibrate your brakes and turns
When in doubt, stop and get out to check your surroundings

What happens if I breakdown? Should I buy an extra roadside assistance policy?
Every RV rented through RVshare includes 24/7 emergency roadside assistance. This includes services for: towing service, tire service, emergency supply delivery, battery service, lockout service, and extraction and winching service.

Planning: how much should I plan out my trip? Should I make reservations in advance?
It’s appealing to hop in an RV and see where you end up, but we definitely recommend making reservations in advance, especially if you’re new to RVing. And actually, in the current climate, that is pretty much required by campgrounds across the country. Having reservations planned ahead of time also takes stress out of needing to find somewhere to park at the end of the day. Along this same line, we’d recommend making sure you get checked into your site before dusk, that way you’re not rushing to get the RV set up when it gets dark.

Will most campgrounds be able to handle my RV?
Yes, most campgrounds have sites specifically for RVs. These sites tend to include electrical and water hookups.

Any other tips you’d offer first-timers?
While we just shared some of our favorite planning tips, I’d also say to keep an open mind! You never know what can come up in your journey, from weather changes to construction. So do your best to have some flexibility with your planning and don’t let any speed bumps (pun intended!) ruin your vacation!

Check out these family RV rentals that we love from RVShare. All of these RVs sleep at least a family of four and are insanely stylish!

Luxury Adventure Campervan

Farmhouse Chic on Wheels (pet friendly!)

2019 Airstream Sport

Bambi in Wanderland

About Shannan Panganiban
Shannan is the author of the blog Faithfully Beautiful – a space to inspire the love and adventure of traveling with kids as well as simplifying and creating a happier mom life. As a mama of 3 little boys, Shannan shares her journey of creating a life she loves and encourages other mothers to find their passion and live it well. Learn more at https://faithfullybeautiful.com and follow Shannon on Instagram at @faithfullyshannan

About RVshare
RVshare is the first and largest peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace. With more than 100,000 vehicles available, RVshare’s diverse inventory ranges from affordable travel trailers to luxury motorhomes and can accommodate any outdoor adventure, whether it’s a weekend of camping or a cross-country tour of national parks. If a renter wants the comforts of home while getting up close and personal with the beautiful world around them, an RV rental is the best place to start. With thousands of satisfied customers and a broad inventory ranging from travel trailers to luxury motorhomes, we have the perfect RV for any vacation, tailgate, or temporary lodging needs.

In addition to offering a unique travel experience, RVshare provides RV owners in North America the opportunity to turn their RV into a second income. We’re here to bring RV renters and RV owners together. RVshare allows for RV owners to generate revenue on an otherwise unused vehicle. Most RVs are used only 2 weeks out of the year.

Renter Benefits

RVshare offers a worry free rental guarantee that offers payment and fraud protection, 24-hour customer service and roadside assistance
Wide-ranging Inventory: From affordable pop-ups to luxury motorhomes
Largest RV Rental Marketplace: 60,000 five star reviews from happy customers
Safest And Most Trusted: 24/7 Emergency roadside assistance on every booking
Pet-friendly options
Delivery and stationary options
One-way rentals available
Comprehensive Nationwide Protection: RVshare Rental Insurance covers both domestic and international renters and provides collision and comprehensive coverage

Learn more at https://rvshare.com

The Village Reviews: Go Happy Kids Travel Tray

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

Traveling with little ones can certainly be an interesting journey, which is why we love any product that can help keep kids both entertained and organized during travel. We are huge fans of the Go Happy Kids Travel Tray, check out these real mom reviews below:

April: I recently had the opportunity to try the Go Happy Kids Travel Tray on a flight from NYC to LA with my nine-month-old little one. The first thing that occurred to me when I used the tray was that this product was clearly created by a parent. It’s the type of product you don’t even realize you need until you’re settled in on a flight with your little one and their snacks and toys are rolling off the small (and dirty) airplane tray. I also really liked that the tray has a slim profile that easily slips into a backpack, comes in a washable drawstring bag to protect it while not in use, and has a removable silicone cover that makes washing it super easy. You and your baby will both be happy with the Go Happy travel tray!

Erica: We love the versatility of this tray. Whether at home or on the go, the tray serves us well for Playdoh, snacks, reading, and coloring. The non-skid mat is great for travel or just unsteady toddler hands. It’s designed with sturdy, high-quality materials. It packs away well in the laptop pocket of a backpack. So many ways to use this!

Tiffany: I love this tray and so does my son! It works great to keep the crumbs contained!! It has a nice border to keep toys from falling off the edge easily! The strap can be a little tricky when stretching it a little farther but holds well! I wish it could clip onto the tray though. It came with a nice and sturdy carrying bag too! The tray and silicone liner both wipe off easily and the tray has a nonslip grip on the bottom for use on a table or other flat surface. All in all this tray makes eating and playing on the go much more convenient! This tray will be great for any trips.

Brooke: We love the Go Happy Kids Travel Tray! It’s so convenient and easy to clean. My daughter was able to play with her play-doh on the coffee table without getting it into all the crevices or on the carpet. It has also been perfect for holding our snacks while we cuddle up to watch a movie on the sofa.

Denalee: The tray was great on the plane! We had the bulk head seat so it wasn’t the normal tray but the travel tray still sat well on top of the plane tray. The adjustable strap kept it in place really well especially when Mikey was done and wanted to push it away quickly (it didn’t budge). We used the tray for eating and playing. There was plenty of room to play with play doh, stickers, and eat all at once. Plus when we had to fold of the plane tray to reach our bag or move it was really nice to not have to pack everything up or try and hold everything in our laps. The travel tray made it really simple to just pick up all the stuff at once and then easily put it back. Not only did the tray make the flight easier but we actually used the inside silicone part as a mat to eat off of at restaurants on our trip. It doesn’t stick as well to the table as mats made for this purpose but it works and was one less thing to worry about packing.

Lauren: The Go Happy Kids Travel Tray was a fantastic addition to our travel bag. The tray kept germs away and snacks and crayons close to my toddler! The strap and grippy material on the bottom of the tray prevented it from moving around during use.

Alyssa: I was so excited to test the Go Happy Kids: Travel Tray. On a recent plane trip I felt like I was constantly trying to retrieve things that rolled off the regular airplane seatback tray and this product seems to fix that problem with its silicone mat and lip around the edge. No more rogue crayons! Not to mention, it covers the regular tray completely and securely so you don’t have to worry about germs and wiping everything down with disinfecting wipes before your kid eats their snack. The handy travel pouch is a nice feature to transport the clean tray around.

Molly: There’s no question that traveling with kids can be difficult. Control some of the chaos, plus art supplies, cheerios, and toys with this sleek travel tray. With a universal raised edge and extra grippy bottom, it easily stays put on standard airline tray tables to keep kids plane essentials off the germiest surfaces and away from the floor. From air to at home, it’s perfect for particularly messy or tiny crafts, (think playdoh to beads). My kids (13,5,3) also use it for snacking and coloring. Bottom line, it’s a great, sturdy surface to use for work or play. Made from BPA-free plastic with a fully washable silicone liner that helps to secure and reign in all manner of travel distractions, the Go Happy Kids Travel Tray is a constant companion when on the go. I keep mine in the back pockets of the car for my two youngest kids to grab as needed. As a mom who spends a considerable percentage of my day picking up things that have fallen on the ground, rolled under a table or disappeared under a seat, the Go Happy Travel Tray is an activity/snack time lifesaver.

Check out these related travel posts:

The Best Travel Car Seat for Infants and Toddlers
Eco-Friendly Toddler Must-Haves for Traveling Families
Gugu Gift Guide: Family Travel Picks

On the Go Finalist List: JPMA 2020

by Christine Swearingen Leave a Comment

We have the On the Go Finalists for JPMA Innovation Awards. For day adventures or vacations, these fantastic products for 2020 are a must-see.

WINNER! MONIT America Inc. Bebefit Light Folding Hip-Seat: The Bebefit Light is a carry-aid that actively supports and distributes your child’s weight around your waist … only when you need it! The Bebefit Light is the first foldable hip-seat that allows you to raise and lower the seat with the click of a button. Easy-up, Easy-down. While not in use its slim profile is barely noticeable under clothes and when you’re done, it can be folded up and placed into most handbags. Our state-of-the-art technology not only reduces carrying-related aches and pains for parents and caregivers but promotes healthy hip-growth by keeping baby in the Hip-Dysplasia Institute certified M-position. Check it out >>

On the Go Finalist: Zoe Baby The Cloud Mini The Zoe Baby Cloud Mini is an ultra-lightweight playard that can be used as a bassinet up to 15lbs and a playard/travel crib up to 30lbs. Carefully crafted with a highly water-resistant 900D fabric The Cloud Mini will make sleep time comfortable and safe for your little one. At only 11lbs, it’s perfect for travel and small spaces. It fits easily into all airline overheads and takes 20 seconds to set up or take down. Included is a useful hands free backpack that conveniently exposes the wheels to roll away in style. It has buckles on the side to attach the optional changer. Check it out >>

On the Go Finalist: Fisher-Price On-The-Go Swing The Fisher-Price On-The-Go Swing This is the only portable swing on the market developed to optimize the outdoor experience, featuring a fully enclosing canopy that is UPF 20 rated to protect baby from the sun as well as flying pests. It also features a breathable mesh panel to make sure baby gets a nice breeze to help cool off on those hot summer days. The On-the-Go Swing is the only swing on the market that meets the infant carrier standard, so you can actually pick up & carry baby around safely in the swing! If you’re out at the park and it starts to rain, we’ve got you covered. Our electronics hub is protected with a special conformal coating to keep it from shorting out. This innovative platform is sturdy and has an intuitive and easy folding system to make loading up quick and easy. Watch the Fisher-Price website for the launch!

On the Go Finalist: Jool Baby Folding Travel Potty The new Jool Baby Folding Travel Potty is the most convenient way for kids to potty train on the go. It folds quickly into a compact size and is stowed in the included travel bag. Eight heavy-duty suction cups on the underside keep the little one stable, making them confident wherever they go. The folding hinges are designed to prevent pinching and the potty comes in stylish color options of aqua and pink. Check it out >>

On the Go Finalist: Evenflo Play Away Deluxe The indoor/outdoor Play-Away™ Portable Playard Deluxe is the ultimate playpen enclosure. The Play-Away has features you’ll love like a detachable UPF 50+ sun protection canopy with full or half dome coverage that is easy to unzip and adapt to your needs. Take a peek on your little one and they can peek at you through the six airy mesh side walls with roll down shades. The water-resistant padded floor is comfortable and easy to clean. The attached pouch is perfect for a touch-screen device. The foldable, sturdy frame comes fully assembled; plus, you can quickly fold, unfold, pack and carry in the included travel bag with shoulder strap. Measuring at 15 sq. ft of play space, 48” wide and 27” tall, it’s just enough room for your child and compact enough for simple transport. Check it out >>

The Must-Have Stroller for On-the-Go: Larktale’s Chit Chat Stroller

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

When it comes to strollers, there are so many factors at play during decision-making time; and, often these factors are small, yet super meaningful, like wheel fluidity, handle-bar height, and storage size. We’ve been writing about strollers for years, so we’re excited to introduce you to the Larktale Chit Chat stroller, the perfect stroller for both the big worldly adventures, and the small walks around the neighborhood. What makes the Larktale Chit Chat stroller so special? Read on below and let us know if you’ve tried it out!

When initially designing the Chit Chat stroller, Larktale identified the key features that mattered most to parents and caregivers looking to buy an everyday stroller. After hundreds of conversations, they were determined to make a stroller that has a really distinctive look, is highly maneuverable, will fold down small, be robust and light to carry. They came to the conclusion that they needed to manufacture Larktale’s everyday stroller in a completely different way. There are so many factors about the Chit Chat that makes it totally unique and a must-have stroller.

Gugu Guru admires that they focused on using recyclable fiber infused nylon, compounds that had been perfected for the automotive industry. It took Larktale over three years of development and testing to create their SpaceFrame with a patented fold/lock mechanism and international design registration. The first product to benefit from SpaceFrame Technology is Larktale’s Chit Chat stroller. In fact, Larktale’s Chit Chat Stroller won the 2019 Eco Excellence Award for its recyclable design.

With its ergonomic design, the Chit Chat looks amazing, is super strong, has a small compact fold, is lightweight (under 15 pounds!) and easy to carry, which means it is ideal both for families who love to travel, and also our urban families as well. Lightweight means you can carry it down stairs, and compact fold means you can store it in a small apartment or carry on public transportation. Some of the other features we love are the side mesh storage for everything you need to carry, the UPF50+ sun-safe canopy and visor to keep baby out of the sun’s way, the large waterproof basket that’s easily accessible and removable, superb front wheel suspension, 5 point safety harness, easy-to-use brakes…and of course, the cupholder for you!

Head to Larktale to learn more about this must-have stroller that comes in six colors – we know you’ll find one you love for your family. Read more about Larktale here, as well as a Gugu Village review.

Use code LKTL-GUGU for an exclusive discount at checkout.

Thank you to Larktale for making this sponsored post possible.

Wanderlust Must-Haves

by Christine Swearingen Leave a Comment

Whether you’re a frequent flying fam or planning the very first trip with your babe, you’ll want to check out some of these travel must-haves.

WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat: Weighing in at an ultralight 8lbs, WAYB’s Pico car seat is a compact forward-facing car seat made of aerospace-grade aluminum and high-performance mesh. Suitable for children who weigh between 22-50lbs and are 30-45″ tall.

Busy Baby Mat: Finally, mealtime and flights can be peaceful. The Busy Baby Mat tether system allows you to attach almost any toys so they never hit the germ-filled ground! Enjoy 15% OFF thru 3/31 with code GUGUGURU.

Larktale Chit Chat Stroller: A jet-setter’s dream. By using a unique recyclable fiber infused nylon, the chit chat’s SpaceFrame is constructed to be incredibly lightweight allowing for easy maneuverability and fold.

Lasc al m1 Carrier: Lascal’s new m1 Carrier is really the ONLY carrier you will ever need; offering 3 unique carrying positions within an ergonomic design. Suitable for children 8-33lbs.

Thank you to WAYB, Busy Baby Mat, Larktale, and Lascal for making this travel must-haves sponsored post possible – we are so appreciative!

Check out some of our other favorite travel posts:
Eco-Friendly Toddler Must-Haves for Traveling Families
The Ultimate Travel Registry for Flying with an Infant

Real Mom Review: Clek Foonf

by Christine Swearingen Leave a Comment

Sleek. Simple. Modern. Minimal. All that and more can be found in the Clek Foonf car seat. One of our Gugu Guru team members tried this car seat with her 16-month-old-daughter and quickly fell in love. Read what she has to say about it below.

We love the super soft material of this car seat. It’s cushioned in all the right places to hug baby and keep her comfortable. We live in Alaska and the seat material is perfect. It doesn’t get super cold when our cars sit outside like her infant car seat would. The material would be great for warm states too because it won’t get warm sitting in the sun in a hot car either.

It’s not as bulky and wide as some of the other car seats on the market and fits nicely in both of our cars, a Ford Escape and a Ford F-150 Super Crew Cab. Bonus: it was also super easy to install properly!

Two of the most important things I looked for in a car seat were a solid frame build and a nice headrest. The headrest in this seat is amazing and really supports her head when she falls asleep on car rides. Clek says the Foonf is “built like a tank” and it truly is! It’s engineered with a steel and magnesium substructure, energy-absorbing crumple technology, and a rebound bar. The safety of this seat really can’t be beaten.

I would highly recommend this car seat to any family with littles. My only regret? Not buying one sooner! She would have loved it as an infant and will be able to use this car seat for years!

Thanks to Clek for sending a Foonf for testing. The thoughts mentioned in this article are my own.

Learn more or purchase the Clek Foonf on Amazon here.

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