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Having children means scaling back your adventures. Day hikes to swimming holes replace weekend backpacking missions. An ambitious ski tour becomes a few laps on the local resort’s bunny hill. And road trips? They’re a lot more challenging, but still totally doable. Since my daughter was born last year my wife and I have dialed in the following kit to take some of the hassle out of long car rides.

Britax Marathon Clicktight Convertible Car Seat ($300)

is a big investment, but the ease of use and the knowledge that my daughter is safe make it worth the cost. It’s simple to swap from car to car (or to an Uber). And while a car seat still isn’t Jojo’s favorite place to be, she definitely seems less fussy, likely due to the Clicktight’s ample padding, wiggle room, and harness that doesn’t pinch.

BOB Gear Revolution Flex Stroller ($430)

Folded down,  easily squeezes in the back of our Honda Element along with the rest of our gear. Pop it out and it’s a kickass running stroller, with quality shocks and a front wheel that locks in place for a more stable ride. The Revolution Flex’s 25.4-inch width is slim enough to navigate busy sidewalks, and the large tires bump happily along fire roads.

Deuter Kid Comfort Active Carrier ($240)

I confess I can get a little self-conscious carrying my daughter around in this . But that’s a small price to pay for such a capable kid carrier. Jojo can relax underneath a hood that provides complete coverage from the sun, and the abundant padding in the hipbelt and shoulder straps keeps me happily cruising on longer outings.  

Fugoo Sport XL Speaker ($200)

I originally got this  for its rich sound and durability back when I was regularly hosting backyard parties and barbecues. While I don’t have many of those anymore, this speaker is still my favorite. My wife and I bring it along on trips in case Jojo needs some white noise to help her nap or wants to rock out to “I’m a Gummy Bear” or “The Hampsterdance Song.”

Electrical Tape ($5)

Nothing’s better for wrapping up wires and covering outlets. I can babyproof a hotel room in under ten minutes with a roll of and some creative piling of pillows.