What do new parents wish for when heading out of the house with their little ones in tow? We’ve hand picked ten gifts that will make their family travels even more memorable, whether that’s heading home with a new baby to see family for a holiday, or out into the world on a big adventure. No matter their travel style, look no further than these 10+ unique gift ideas for new parents.
When shopping for new parents, gift-givers inevitably fall into two camps: those who have had a baby and those who have not. Experienced parents tend to know exactly what a new parent needs, while the rest of us—well intentioned as we are—often turn up with a onesie and a casserole.
Not that there’s anything wrong with a casserole! Busy new parents will appreciate anything you bring. Of course, you’ll really make their day if you give them something you selected just for them, not just for that new baby.
This gift guide is designed for parents who love to travel. Their family has grown, but that doesn’t mean the adventure needs to end. Instead, a new adventure is just beginning—parents get to introduce their children to the world. Here are ten gift ideas for new parents to make their first trips with the baby even better.
FOR PARENTS ON THE GO
Gone are the days of throwing a few things in a pack and setting out (for now, at least!) Traveling with a baby requires a lot more planning—and a lot more stuff. Instead of lugging around a bulky diaper bag, new parents can be more mobile with a daypack for the baby. The lightweight Wayfinder Backpack 20L ($79) is the perfect hands-free diaper bag for all their family adventures. Who says a diaper bag needs to be frumpy?
FOR PARENTS WITH A TOUCH OF CABIN FEVER
Spending days at home can be a big adjustment for new parents—especially adventurous ones. Help new parents feel a little luxurious when they venture out of the house, even if it’s a quick trip around the block, with stylish shoes. Timberland’s Noreen Boat Shoes ($110) come in four beautiful colors for her and the Heger’s Bay 3-Eye Boat Shoes ($120) comes in six cool colors for him. Both shoes feature OrthoLite® comfort foam insoles to keep them walking no matter how many times they’ve already paced the floor that day.
FOR EVERY NEW PARENT EVER
It’s a fact: New parents need sleep whenever and wherever they can get it. Eagle Creek’s plush Cat Nap Rest Set ($45) helps parents catch some shut-eye wherever they are, from the airplane to the rocking chair in the baby’s room. The kit comes with a fluffy neck pillow, a super-comfortable eye shade, and earplugs for the nights when it’s the other parent’s turn.
FOR HIKERS, SKIERS, AND MOUNTAIN CLIMBERS
New parents can be a lot more active than you might think. Outdoorsy types can strap on the baby and set out for a hike, even if it’s a local one. Of course, the baby will need something to wear for his/her first expeditions. Wrangler’s Front Pocket Bib Overalls ($34) are adorable for boys or girls and make the perfect outfit for baby’s first big outdoor adventure.
FOR PARENTS WHO CAN NEVER FIND THEIR KEYS
For such a small person, a new baby needs a whole lot of stuff. It’s often little stuff, too: tiny nail clippers, ointment, a baby thermometer, and so much more. Eagle Creek’s convenient Pack-It Specter™ On Board ($46) hanging toiletry kit keeps all those little things organized. When it’s time to travel, parents can zip it up and set out—there’s no need to sweat the small stuff.
FOR WINTER FUNSIES
If it’s baby’s first winter, a snowy day could come at any time. Make sure your new parents are ready to take the adorable “baby in the snow” photos with this cute winter hat. Thanks to the retro tassels, this Smartwool Kids’ Snowflake Beanie ($32) is particularly darling. Made with Merino wool, it’s warm, too! That means the hat still works when adventures go beyond the backyard. If your new parents live down south, it may not snow but they will appreciate the adorable Toddler Sock Sampler ($22), made from quality merino wool and sure to keep little feet toasty warm.
FOR MULTITASKERS
Eagle Creek’s compact Wayfinder Waist Pack ($30) is a perfect gift for new parents for three major reasons. One: Fanny packs are totally back in style; two: Yoga pants don’t have pockets; and three: Babies have a tendency to fall asleep without warning. Make new parents feel like Inspector Gadget with instant access to all their essentials. That means the phone, pacifier, hand sanitizer, headphones, and snacks are on hand at all times.
FOR COOL PARENTS
If your friends always seem to look cooler than you, you can only expect the same from their mini-me. The Vans Infant Checker Slip-On V Crib shoes ($25) are just like classic Vans, only they’re tiny and made for babies. If they really want to ace the those family travel photos? The parents can wear theirs, too. Oh come on, it’s adorable!
FOR TYPE A TYPES
Parents aren’t just packing for themselves anymore. Help new parents keep their luggage organized with Eagle Creek’s Pack-It Specter™ Starter Set ($59). These ultra-light organizers make packing a breeze. Parents can use the garment folder to keep their clothes wrinkle-free and use set of small Pack-It Specter Cubes ($40) for all of those tiny baby’s things. Mess, managed!
FOR CAMPERS, PARK-GOERS, AND STARGAZERS
A great blanket is a must-have for any family who wanders. The Cat Nap Blanket ($31) is made of super-soft fleece. Parents can bring it on a flight, pack it for a picnic, or keep the blanket in the car for whenever inspiration strikes. As an added bonus, the blanket doubles as a pillow when folded for last-minute naps (for both parents and baby).
Looking for gift ideas for your other traveling friends? Check out our Ultimate Gift Guide: 25 Best Gifts for Travelers .
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