As a parent, there’s nothing more frustrating than packing everyone into the car for a quick outing—only to realize 15 minutes in that you forgot something essential. Whether it’s a toddler needing to pee now, a scraped knee, or a snack-time meltdown, having the right things on hand can save your sanity.
Here’s your ultimate checklist for short-distance outings like trips to the park, so you won’t have to make a trip back home. Keep a bag ready to go or stash these in your car!
🚽 1. Portable Potty or Pee Cup
Little bladders can’t wait. A foldable potty seat (great for girls) or a pee cup (super handy for boys) can be a total lifesaver when there are no public restrooms nearby—or they’re just too gross to use.
👉 This portable potty is compact and easy to clean!
🧻 2. Wet & Dry Wipes
Sticky fingers? Mystery dirt? Quick nose wipe? Wet wipes take care of it all. Pair them with dry wipes or tissues to cover all your cleanup needs.
🧼 My favorite wet wipes & my go-to dry wipes
🍎 3. Snacks
Kids burn energy fast, and park play means they’ll be “soooo hungry” before you know it. Keep non-messy snacks like granola bars, crackers, fruit pouches, or cheese sticks on hand.
🍫 Try these Larabars—they’re clean, simple, and toddler-approved!
🧃 4. Water & Juice Boxes
Hydration is key—especially during warmer days. Water for the kids (and you!), and maybe a juice box or two as a little treat.
🧢 5. Hats, Sunglasses & Sunscreen
Sun protection is not optional. Pop hats and sunnies on your little ones, and always reapply sunscreen if you’re out for more than an hour.
🧢 Cute kids’ hats
😎 Stylish toddler sunglasses (so cute and stylish!)
☀️ Our go-to sunscreen for sensitive skin
🚑 6. Emergency Kit (Keep it in the Car!)
Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, a small ice pack, and kids’ pain relief meds just in case. You never know when a scraped knee or bug bite might strike.
🩹 This all-in-one emergency kit is a must—don’t have to worry about anything once you purchase this one.
🦟 Tried-and-true bug repellent—I’ve tried all-natural ones, but honestly, this one just works better.
👕 7. Extra Clothes
Puddle jumping? Slide accidents? Unexpected spills? Always pack a change of clothes—especially underwear and socks!
🛍️ 8. Plastic Bags
Wet clothes, dirty diapers, snack wrappers—plastic bags or reusable wet bags will be your best friend when it’s time to pack up.
🧺 9. Picnic Blanket or Outdoor Mat
You don’t always want to sit on grass (or mulch). A compact, foldable mat gives you a clean space for snacks, diaper changes, or just lounging in the shade.
🧺 This one folds up perfectly and fits in the stroller basket.
🧸 10. A Comfort Toy or Boredom Buster
Sometimes your little one just needs their “lovie” or a small toy to help them wind down after play. A favorite book, mini puzzle, or car toy can help avoid meltdowns during transitions.
OUT-THE-DOOR CHECKLIST: PARK / SHORT OUTINGS
Tape it to the fridge. Save your sanity.
✅ Grab-n-Go Essentials
⬜ Portable Potty or Pee Cup
⬜ Wet Wipes
⬜ Dry Wipes or Tissues
⬜ Snacks
⬜ Water & Juice Boxes
⬜ Hats
⬜ Sunglasses
⬜ Sunscreen
⬜ Extra Clothes (shirt, pants, underwear, socks)
⬜ Plastic Bags or Wet Bags
⬜ Comfort Toy / Book / Small Toy
🧳 Keep These in the Car
⬜ Emergency Kit (first aid, meds)
⬜ Bug Repellent
⬜ Picnic Blanket or Foldable Mat
⬜ Back-up Water Bottle
⬜ Small Towel or Cloth
✨ Bonus Tip:
Going somewhere by plane soon?
Check the “Airplane Must-Have List” before takeoff! ✈️
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Cook&Click with Hana 
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