Family Summer Travel Fun!
We just got back from taking our 5-year-old grandson to a family reunion in Phoenix in June and if you have ever been to Phoenix in summer, you know the heat is absolutely no joke. Between the flight, the outdoor activities, and keeping a busy little one happy and protected in triple-digit temperatures, packing smart was everything. Here is the ultimate young kid summer travel kit we put together — and every single thing on this list proved its worth on the trip.
Whether you are heading to a family reunion, a beach vacation, or any warm climate destination with a little one in tow, this list has you covered from the airplane to the pool to the sunny afternoon adventures in between. These are the finds The Clever Crew genuinely used and loved — field tested in 110 degree Phoenix heat. Pepper stayed home and was absolutely jealous!
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iPad
♥ What I Love
If there is one travel essential for flying with a young child, this is it. Load it up with their favorite shows, games, and audiobooks before you leave and you have hours of quiet, happy entertainment at 30,000 feet. The battery life is excellent, the screen is bright and clear even in sunny conditions, and it is intuitive enough for a 5-year-old to use completely independently. Our grandson was glued to his the entire flight — grandparent win!
ProCase iPad Cover for Kids
♥ What I Love
A good kid-proof cover is non-negotiable when traveling with a 5-year-old. This one has thick corner protection, a built-in handle they can actually grip, and a stand that props it up perfectly on a tray table. It has survived drops, spills, and everything a busy little traveler can throw at it. Do not travel without protecting that investment — this cover pays for itself the first time they drop it on a tile floor.
Jurassic World Kids Headphones for iPad
♥ What I Love
These are a must-have companion to the iPad — because nobody on the plane wants to hear Bluey at full volume for two hours, including GG and PawPaw! These kid-sized headphones have a built-in volume limit to protect little ears, fold up compactly for easy packing, and are comfortable enough that they will actually keep them on. The padded headband and soft ear cushions make them easy to wear for the whole flight without any fussing.
Dakine Kids Backpack
♥ What I Love
Dakine makes some of the best kids bags out there and this backpack proves it. It is sized perfectly for a young child to carry their own gear — snacks, a small toy, sunscreen, and their water bottle — without being overwhelming. The quality is exceptional, the zippers are easy for little hands, and it fits under an airplane seat without any trouble. Our grandson loves having his own bag and this one is built to last for years of family adventures.
Gatorade Kids Water Bottle
♥ What I Love
In Phoenix heat, hydration is everything — especially for little ones who are too busy running around to think about drinking water. This insulated bottle keeps water cold for hours even in triple-digit temperatures, has a leak-proof lid that a 5-year-old can open themselves, and comes in fun colors kids actually get excited about carrying. It fits perfectly in the side pocket of the Dakine backpack and goes everywhere with us.
Nike Kids Water Shoes
♥ What I Love
Pool decks in Phoenix get scorching hot and water shoes are an absolute must. These Nike water shoes are so comfortable and easy to put on and off quickly so little ones can get in and out of the pool without a fuss, drain fast so there is no sloshing around, and have enough grip to keep feet stable on slippery wet surfaces. They are also great for splash pads and resort activities. A small item that makes a huge difference for comfort and safety in the heat.
Frogglez Kids Water Goggles
♥ What I Love
Our grandson just learned to swim and there was absolutely no keeping him out of the pool at the reunion — goggles made every single session so much more exciting for him. These fit snugly without being too tight, have an easy-adjust strap little ones can manage themselves, and the anti-fog lenses stay clear through hours of swimming. Lightweight enough to toss in the backpack and affordable enough to grab two pairs because one always disappears at a family gathering!
BesserBay Kids Rash Guard
♥ What I Love
Our grandson just learned to swim and was in that pool every single day of the reunion — which means sun protection was non-stop. In Phoenix sun, a rash guard is not optional, it is essential. The built-in UPF 50+ protection means the shoulders, arms, and torso are covered even when they are splashing in the pool for hours. This one dries quickly, stays comfortable in and out of the water, and covers the areas where young kids burn the fastest. It also means fewer sunscreen reapplications on a squirmy 5-year-old which is a win for everyone at the reunion!
Minecraft Kids Sunglasses
♥ What I Love
Kids need real UV protection for their eyes just as much as adults — especially in the intense Arizona sun. These sunglasses actually deliver UV400 protection while being cute enough that they want to wear them. They are flexible so they bend rather than break when a 5-year-old inevitably sits on them, and the wraparound fit stays put during active play. Our grandson thinks he looks very cool in his and honestly he is right. Pack two pairs just in case!
Mifold Foldable Travel Booster Seat
♥ What I Love
This was hands down the most unexpected MVP of our entire Phoenix trip and we tell every traveling parent and grandparent about it. Getting Ubers and riding in relatives’ cars with a 5-year-old is stressful when you do not have a car seat — until you have this. It folds down flat and fits right inside the backpack, so it is always with you wherever you go. It is NTSB certified for safety so you never have to compromise on protection just because you are away from home. We used it every single day in Phoenix and it made getting around as a family so much easier and stress free.
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