11 Best Safety Devices for Solo Travel With Kids

As a travel writer and mom of two, I’m constantly on the go. My two-year-old and four-month-old accompany me on most of my trips, which means a certain level of preparation is always required — especially when traveling alone with my kids. Among these solo adventures, I’ve taken my toddler on a flight to Las Vegas that was delayed on the tarmac for hours, while my newborn and I took a road trip together a month after he was born. I’ve learned that going somewhere alone with my little ones is like unlocking a new level of parenting: I have to be extra prepared to make sure that we’re traveling wisely and safely. 

Thanks to modern technology, parents can feel more empowered and free to do more with their kids in tow. In fact, I’ve discovered numerous travel safety devices to help parents feel secure when traveling with kids, from GPS trackers to portable carbon monoxide monitors. Ahead, I’ve rounded up 11 safety devices and travel essentials that make everything from roadtripping to flying with kids of any age easier — and will give you peace of mind on your next trip.

Kids Shoe Insoles With GPS Tracker

Before becoming a mom, I secretly judged parents who used safety harnesses — what I used to call “leashes” — to keep their children nearby. Now, as a mom who spends her days chasing a toddler, I have no judgment whatsoever. Instead of using a harness, however, I opt for GPS trackers whenever possible. One of my favorites is this discreet option that tucks an Apple AirTag into a kid’s shoe insole, hidden from potential abductors and allowing me to track my child through the Find My app.

LifeVac Portable Suction Rescue Device 

During an emergency, it may be tough to remember how to properly perform CPR. The LifeVac safety device is one I pack wherever I go as a precaution in case a choking incident were to ever arise. This travel version includes a suction device, a pediatric mask, an adult mask, and simple instructions — all in a compact bag you can easily tuck into your carry-on or personal item. This life-saving device gives parents peace of mind, especially if you’re traveling alone, since it can be administered by one person.

Gas & Carbon Monoxide Detector

With four-in-one detection, this plug-in monitor is more than just a CO2 monitor: it measures natural gas and carbon monoxide levels, plus the temperature and humidity levels in a room. Hotels are not always required to have carbon monoxide detectors, so packing your own ensures a safe stay. Plus, the added features of temperature and humidity controls are helpful for making any necessary changes for an ideal sleep environment, especially for infants.

Alpine Muffy Baby Ear Protection and Noise Reduction Earmuffs

I’ve placed my hands over my baby’s ears many times while sitting on a plane because loud sounds can be harmful to infant ears — and there are often unexpected noises when flying. That’s where these baby earmuffs come in. Designed for effective noise reduction, these baby headphones are certified as meeting both European and U.S. safety standards and ensure little ones are protected from loud announcements over the speakers, noises from the engines, and any other disturbances during the flight. They also feature soft padded ear cushions for comfort and an adjustable band to get the best fit. You can use them at your destination, too, if you’re in any other loud environments.

MiaMily Carry-on Luggage With Seat for Kids

Unlike kids’ ride-on luggage that is usually too small to fit much, this four-wheel, easy-to-push carry-on with a seat is full-sized so you aren’t sacrificing packing space. Long airport hallways are no longer a worry when your toddler has a seat (with a seatbelt), leaving your other hand free for another bag or stroller. Plus, the built-in seat tucks away when not in use — and it’s even sturdy enough for adults who need a break too.

Hiccapop Inflatable Bed Rail

When a hotel crib is too small and a bed poses a risk of your toddler falling off, this inflatable bed rail is the solution. Made of thick vinyl material that slips into a machine-washable cover, these portable bed bumpers anchor in place with the child’s weight. They are easy to inflate with just your breath (no pump needed), deflate with the push of a button, and fold into a compact travel pouch that’ll fit in your carry-on or checked bag.

Outlet Covers With Hidden Pull Handle

This pack of 45 reusable outlet covers is perfect for quickly baby-proofing hotel rooms and keeping children safe from electrical outlets. With a hidden pull handle, they are easy to install and fit securely into standard three-prong or two-prong outlets and power strips.

Nanit Pro Smart Baby Monitor & Flex Stand

At home, we use a Nanit camera over each of our son’s cribs, but with the Flex Stand, we can take the camera on the go. Easy to set up, the Nanit Flex Stand allows you to place the camera virtually anywhere. The best part? You can monitor the cameras remotely with the Nanit app. Because you have to use Wi-Fi for the Nanit, however, some parents opt to travel with a non-Wi-Fi baby monitor. Opt for travel-friendly compact ones like the HelloBaby monitor or VTech monitor.

Tile Tracker

Tile trackers work the same way as AirTags except they have an added bonus: the discreet SOS button. Perfect for children and solo travelers who may find themselves in a situation where they need help, Tile now integrates with Life360, a location-sharing app. In case of emergency, when the SOS button is clicked three times, it automatically shares the location with designated emergency contacts. It’s also easy to attach just about anywhere: kids’ backpacks, diaper bags, shoe laces, and luggage. 

Pure Enrichment PureZone Mini Portable Air Purifier

Whether traveling by train, bus, plane, or car, this mini purifier will help clean the air around you and your little ones. It has an activated carbon pre-filter and HEPA filter that work together to eliminate 99.7 percent of dust, odors, and allergens in the air. Its portable size makes it easy to pack, and it’s small enough to fit in a cupholder. It’s easy to recharge with the USB-C charging port, and it offers three fan settings depending on the size of the space you’re in. The soft sound of the fan may even double as a portable baby white noise machine.

Bagsmart Tote Bag

Packing for a flight with kids means finding the balance between minimalism and preparedness. That’s why the right carry-on bag is essential. I’m eyeing Caraa’s new Portobello travel bag that doubles as a diaper bag and a place to keep snacks and toys. Its stylish design doesn’t compromise function, featuring a secure zippered compartment and lightweight, waterproof (read: spill-proof) nylon material. However, for a more budget-friendly option, this Bagsmart Tote is spacious enough to double as a diaper bag according to shoppers. It’s extremely lightweight, and it includes various compartments and pockets to keep items organized — because accessing items quickly is an important component of staying safe. 

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