The Best Carry On Travel Bags For Parents & Kids
Jetting across the sky isn’t always easy when you have kids in tow. To help make your next adventure more enjoyable, here are our picks for carry-on travel bags for both parents and kids.
Flying with kids? You’re going to need A LOT of supplies.
You’re also going to need a bag to carry said supplies.
If you’re looking for the perfect bag to keep you on-the-go and in style while on the fly, you’re going to want to check out our edit of carry on travel bags. All Tot-tested and adored by our team members, these bags do double time making travel fashionable and functional.
In this article, we’ll look at:
- Materials to avoid in backpacks and luggage
- What to look for in a carry on bag
- The best carry on travel bags for parents
- The best carry on travel bags for kids
Scroll down to learn more!
What to look for in a carry on bag:
While it may be tempting to go for that cute small handled and unzippable tote bag, take a moment and hear what we (parents who have been in the trenches of an airplane with children) like to look for in a carry on bag.
- Make sure the bag can fully close. Open mouth tote bags will 100% result in your child’s favorite to being lost.
- Ensure that the fabrics are wipeable, machine-washable or easy to clean!
- Can you go hands-free? While we do have some fantastic tote options on our list, we mostly love them for the longer strap that allows you to wear it across your body.
- Opt for multiple pockets. There’s nothing worse than trying to dig for a pack of wipes while simultaneously going through security.
- Will it grow with your family? When kids are young, you’re going to want a carry on bag that doubles as a diaper bag, but as they get older, it’s nice to know that your baby bag doesn’t have to be retired! Can it continue to travel with you without screaming CAUTION: BABY STUFF INSIDE?
Materials to avoid in backpacks and luggage:
Now that we’ve told you what to look for, it’s time to focus on what to avoid.
Unfortunately, not all backpacks are made equal. Many mainstream options contain harmful materials like bisphenols and phthalates, while others are sprayed with PFAS chemicals for waterproofing. All particularly dangerous to babies, children and pregnant women, it’s important to make sure you know WHAT your bag is made of. At The Tot, we never use or recommend anything that hasn’t passed The Tot Test.
Here is a list of the ingredients we avoid in bags and backpacks:
PVC
PVC, also known as polyvinyl chloride, or vinyl, is an incredibly toxic chemical that is harmful to our bodies and to the environment right from the production phase through to disposal. It contains additives like phthalates, lead, cadmium, organotin that are quite toxic and have been linked to asthma, allergies, reproductive problems and cancer.
Harmful phthalates
Many phthalates are known endocrine disruptors associated with asthma, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, breast cancer, obesity, type II diabetes, neurodevelopmental issues, behavioral issues, autism spectrum disorders, altered reproductive development and male fertility issues.
BPA + BPS (bisphenols)
Bisphenols mimic the hormone estrogen and have been linked to prostate cancer, breast cancer, female infertility, and obesity. BPA is an especially dangerous endocrine disruptor since even small amounts of this chemical have been shown to cause serious reproductive damage, especially when the exposure occurs in utero.
Lead and other heavy metals
Exposure to heavy metals can cause nerve damage, learning and behavioral problems, reproductive damage and irreversible brain damage.
PFAS chemicals
PFAS (poly-fluoroalkyl substances) are a large family of different chemicals that have been shown to cause developmental and other adverse effects in laboratory animals.
The best carry on travel bags for parents:
Jem & Bea Backpacks
As long time fans of Jem & Bea’s Jamie Backpack, we’re particularly excited about their new eco version.
Available in black and khaki, it’s made from 100% ECONYL® regenerated nylon. Just like the brand’s other backpacks, it includes a wristlet pouch, hidden thermo-insulated side pocket at side, four interior pockets, including secure zip compartment for valuables as well as an oval-shaped luxury padded changing mat.
Jem & Bea Jamie Eco Backpack
$245
Available in more colors
Jem & Bea Jamie Nylon Backpack
$245
Jem & Bea Jamie Denim Backpack
$220
Jem & Bea Jamie Leather Backpack
$385
Tote and Weekender Bags
Looking for something a bit different? We are also huge fans of Jem & Bea’s Jemima Diaper Bag and Lola Tote. Another playful option is the Tie Dye Duffle from the State Bags x T H E M E collaboration.
Jem & Bea Jemima Diaper Bag
$400
Available in more colors
Jem & Bea Lola Tote & Change Pad
$175
STATE Bags x T H E M E Felix Duffle Bag
$150
EXCLUSIVE
The best carry on travel bags for kids:
For kids, we have some insanely cute options that are both versatile and functional.
From a mini roller suitcase to backpacks to the genius JETKIDS BedBox, you’re sure to find something your mini will be proud to carry while on-the-go!
JetKids by Stokke BedBox
Completely genius, the Stokke JetKids is a ride on suitcase, bed, leg rest, play tray and more. Most suitable for kids over two, this innovative option is intended to provide kids with mobility, entertainment and a comfortable place to sleep.
JetKids By Stokke BedBox
$199
Available in more colors
More Kid Size Carry On Options…
Olli Ella See-Ya Suitcase
$85
Available in more colors
Jem & Bea Kids Eco Backpack – Orange
$60
Jem & Bea Kids Eco Backpack – Khaki
$60
STATE Bags x T H E M E Kane Backpack
$115
EXCLUSIVE
STATE Bags The Mini Kane Backpack – Rainbow
$65
STATE Bags The Kane Backpack – Metallic
$85
Available in more colors
STATE Bags The Mini Kane – Color Block
$60
Available in more colors
STATE Bags The Kane Backpack – Color Block
$70
Available in more colors
STATE Bags The Mini Kane Backpack – Airplanes
$65
STATE Bags The Kane Backpack – Tie Dye
$90
STATE Bags The Kane Backpack – Camo
$90
$90
STATE Bags The Kane Printed Backpack – Ikat
$85
STATE Bags The Kent Backpack
$110
Available in more sizes
STATE Bags The Kane Color Block Backpack
$70
Available in more sizes
Light + Nine Silicone Starter Backpack
$55
Available in more colors
Light + Nine Silicone Patch Set
$43
Continue exploring
- What We’re Reading: How To Travel With Your Toddler
- Still nursing? Here are 6 Travel Tips For The Breastfeeding Mom
