The Best Baby Gear for Outdoorsy Families

When we polled Babylist parents about the outdoorsy gear they couldn’t live without, this jogging stroller was one of the most mentioned picks. It features air-filled tires with a mountain-bike suspension that ensure a smooth ride no matter where you’re going, and it’s surprisingly lightweight for a jogging/all-terrain stroller option. It’s also versatile enough that it comes in handy for day to day strolling, too.

One Babylist parent said in their review, “I have this and a non-jogging stroller and prefer the BOB any day. There is no place you can’t go! Gravel? No problem! Curbs? Go right over. I’m constantly struggling when I have the other stroller and the BOB is just effortless. It’s way more than just a jogging stroller! Love that it fits every part of your lifestyle.” It has an extra-large basket to tote all the things and you can use it from birth with your baby’s infant car seat and compatible adapters (one thing to note: it’s only suitable for jogging once your baby is eight months old). 

I spend a lot of time outside with my toddlers, whether we’re going for a trail walk, having a picnic at the park or visiting the zoo. Veer’s All-Terrain Cruiser has been our go-to for years thanks to its durability and comfy ride. The wheels on this thing can truly handle any terrain—be it dirt, gravel or sand—and we can fit our diaper bag and anything else we need for a day out. The brand also makes a few different accessories to help you personalize it to work for your family’s specific needs, like beach wheels, storage basket and seat cushions.

The Pivot is like the perfect combination of a stroller and wagon; it can tackle any adventure (whether that’s a Target run or trail hike). Many Babylist parents raved about the Pivot’s all-terrain ability when we polled them about outdoor gear, one saying, “By far THE most helpful stroller to bring over literally any terrain. It handles thick sticky NC clay mud with ease, we've gone through streams flawlessly, grass, dirt, gravel—you name it, we've been through it.” She also added that it’s spacious enough to be comfortable for multiple little ones. 

A supportive structured carrier is hands-down the most essential piece of baby gear, according to outdoorsy Babylist parents. Many recommended this pick from Ergobaby specifically, which also happens to be a Babylist editor favorite. The Omni Deluxe offers ergonomic support and features a lightweight, breathable mesh material to keep you and your baby cool while you’re carrying them. We also love that if you plan to share babywearing duty with your partner, it has convenient markings on the straps to make quick adjustments. The Omni Deluxe is suitable to use with your baby from seven to 45 lbs, no infant insert needed.

If you want to go on hikes with your little one once they reach toddlerhood, the Osprey Poco offers some serious support. Babylist parents called this carrier out in our poll responses, one saying it “Makes going out on adventures so much easier.” Another parent noted how convenient it is that this stands up so you can securely strap your toddler in on the ground before hoisting them up on your shoulders. (Note: it’s suitable for little ones 23.7 to 48.5 lbs.) You can also purchase a rain cover and sun shade, to protect them from the elements, both sold separately. 

Once your baby is mobile and in their “explore every corner of the world” era, baby wearing can get a bit tricky. While the Tushbaby hip carrier is not a hands-free option like a traditional carrier, it makes it much easier to handle those frequent ups and downs toddlers are notorious for. It fastens around your waist and helps distribute your little one’s weight, easing some of the pressure on your back and also has a few pockets to stash your keys and wallet.

Just because you live somewhere cold doesn’t mean you should be trapped inside all season. These handmuffs are a lifesaver for keeping your hands toasty for walks in chilly weather, and the hook and loop closure works with any stroller’s handlebar. 

A portable sound machine comes in clutch for naps on the go and even calming an overstimulated baby. This Sprucely pick has a bunch of sound options, a built-in nightlight and a long-lasting battery.

Outdoor adventures with a baby require a bit more supplies—so you’ll need a diaper bag that’ll keep up. Specifically, a backpack style one. They tend to be more comfortable to carry and allow you to go hands free. This roomy neoprene bag from Dagne Dover has multiple pockets for keeping things organized and can be handwashed if your outdoor adventures get dirty (though some parents say the lighter colors do stain).

The Guava Lotus is one of our favorite travel cribs, for a few different reasons. It’s super lightweight—weighing just 13 lbs—and it’s easy to pack up, folding into a convenient backpack. The mattress is spacious without being too large, measuring around 24 by 41 inches. A travel crib is great for naps on the go, or giving baby a safe spot to hang out at the park or beach.

A durable outdoor blanket is a game-changer when you’re spending time outside with little ones. This soft, durable pick from Little Unicorn and folds up for easy transport, is lightweight and comes in a few different sizes depending on how much space you need. It’s also waterproof, so you can sit on damp grass or sand without getting wet. The best part is that this one is machine washable, making it easy to clean when it gets dirty.

The Go With Me Venture Deluxe chair is another piece of game-changing baby gear. It’s super versatile and portable, and resembles a tiny camping chair. It’s perfect for taking to the beach, the park or even using it in your backyard. The chair comes with a detachable shade and snack tray, turning it into a portable high chair, too.

When it's hot, this clip-on fan keeps baby cool and comfortable.