What to Pack for a Trip to the Park (Or Just a Walk Down the Block, Because That’s an Adventure Too)

Let’s be real—taking kids to the park is not the breezy, wholesome, slow-mo montage Instagram makes it look like. It’s more like wrangling a pack of caffeinated squirrels into the great outdoors with the hope that they run off enough energy to go to bed without arguing about the injustice of pajamas.

And hey, you know those moms who are always perfectly packed for every situation? Like they could open a fully stocked mini Target from their trunk?

Yeah. I love those moms. I am not one of those moms.

This list isn’t about perfection—it's about survival, sanity, and snacks. So whether you’re heading to the park, or just walking down the block (because let’s face it, some days we don’t make it past the mailbox), here’s my real mom’s guide to what to bring.

1. Sippy Cup or Waterbottles – AKA The only thing standing between you and “I’m thirsty” every 45 seconds.

Is it full of milk? Water? A questionable combination of both? Who knows. Just bring it.

Mom Pick: Spill-Proof Sippy Cup – Keeps liquids cold, and doubles as a projectile when someone gets hangry.

2. Snacks: The Currency of Children

You know what motivates tiny people more than hugs? SNACKS. Don’t you dare leave the house without a snack pack or twelve. And no, one pouch isn’t enough. You need options. (Also, bring one for yourself. Mama gets snacky, too.)

Mom Pick: Reusable Snack Caddy + Pretzels – For the toddler who wants pretzels but not those pretzels.

3. Scooter or Ride-On Toy – Because Walking Is For Mortals

You say “let’s walk,” and your kid says “carry me.” Solve that standoff with wheels.

Mom Pick: Micro Toddler Scooter + Step 2 Push Buggy – Bonus points for distracting them with the lights while you sip your coffee in peace for 6 seconds.

4. Wipes – Just... Wipes

There is no problem a good wipe can’t fix. Mud, mystery goo, rogue popsicle juice, your own sweat. You’re basically wiping down everyone like you’re detailing a car.

Mom Pick: Baby Wipes Mega Pack – You’ll use them all. Trust.

5. Sunscreen, Bug Spray, and Hope

Slather ‘em up like you’re basting a turkey. Bonus if your kid pretends to be attacked by invisible bees when you apply spray.

Mom Pick: Kid-Friendly Sunscreen + Kids Bug Spray

6. Mom Fuel – Coffee, Water Bottle, and Maybe Chocolate

Yes, you need hydration. No, you don’t need to share your chocolate. That’s your emergency stash for when the playground bathroom is locked and your toddler suddenly has to pee.

Mom Pick: Stanley Quencher

7. Plastic Bag – For Mystery Trash

You will be handed an empty fruit snack wrapper like it’s a gift. Be prepared.

Mom Pick: Disposable Diaper Sacks – Because motherhood is just carrying around other people’s trash in style.

Optional But Real-Life Essentials:

• Band-Aids

• A second sippy cup because someone will "accidentally" throw the first one into a bush

• Your patience (if you find it, let me know where mine went)

So there you have it, the not-so-minimalist guide to momming in the wild. Whether you're going five miles or five feet, you're not just walking—you're going on a fully packed mission with tiny humans who are sticky, loud, and hilarious.

No pressure to bring everything. Honestly, if all you manage is pants and snacks, you're already winning.

Now go forth, mama. The sidewalk awaits.