Inside ToteSavvy

Everything you need to know for the year ahead.  Some consider the new year their personal Renaissance--a time of reawakening, and a chance to recommit to all the promises that have slowly sloughed away over the course of the year. That gym membership probably got a lot more action in January then it did come March, and the same probably goes for those to-go coffee cups and pre-packed lunches, too. But we’re not here to judge, because we’re talking from experience. If parenthood teaches us anything, it’s how incredibly difficult it is to maintain our own personal well-being while managing that of our offspring. So if you’ve ever rolled your eyes at a headline that suggests your best life starts with a full 8 hours of sleep at night, step in line (we’ve been standing in it for years). Today, we’re recommitting to the recommitment and getting a headstart on the new year with all the ways to get organized so that we have our best year yet--really.    PLANNING If we’re talking brass tacks here, there’s nothing that a parent relies on more than a good, old-fashioned calendar. For some of us, there’s more than one--digital, planner, and that thing we stick to the fridge that just looks like we’re holding the week together. But because we’re really going deep in 2020, these are a few of our favorite organizational tools for tracking everything from school drop-off to playdates and that coffee with your old work wife that you’ve been trying to get on the books for months.      The way we measure productivity can sometimes get lost in the flurry of things--probably because we’re too busy doing things. But for immediate digital assistance, and the best way to keep it all together, we’re big fans of the Cozi app and family organizer. With one goal in mind--keeping busy families (and what family isn’t busy?) organized--Cozi really works wonders. And because it’s become a centralized part of our daily existence, and probably yours too, we’re no stranger to Google Calendars for an easy and efficient mode of keeping track of our day-to-day routines.      Plus, there’s something that some of us just won’t give up--and probably for good reason. There’s scientific evidence behind how writing things down better embeds thoughts into our memory, which is why we’re devotees to a classic calendar. Our go-to is the Moleskine, a brand revered by the elites like Picasso and Hemingway. In an array of colors, designs and organizational options, the modes of which to stay on top of the ball are virtually endless.  And for full family transparency, and to keep the whole team on the right ship, we love a good refrigerator calendar. With the full month in front of you, and out there for everyone to see, keeping everyone in line will be a little simpler.    PACKING  Packing can pertain to a variety of things, all relevant to how we approach our daily lives. Getting organized is especially relevant for how we approach packing, and whether that’s for your daily lunch, that quarterly business trip, or for moms packing their diaper bags, how you load each up matters.      The easiest approach to packing a lunch is having something that fits the whole family, and every food preference imaginable inside. This is the sole reason we’re always reaching for Lunchbots, the original stainless steel bento boxes that help us carefully and efficiently pack a lunch. (Plus, they’re super sleek and incredibly easy to clean.) It also gives us an excuse to pick up an ultra-cute lunch box. Helps us stay motivated, ya know? Pack lunches in advance to keep busy mornings running smoothly!     Diaper bags are an essential part of every mother’s day-to-day routine. No matter the journey, it requires a laundry list of just-in-case items and absolute essentials. Diaper bags have come a long way since our own mothers’ time, and with a broadening of the term and a market rich in options, it’s become all about how we pack it. Available in three sizes, ToteSavvy is ripe for the picking--and packing. Choose the size that works best with your favorite bag, and become the most organized you’ve ever been.    There’s no telling where the new year will take you, but we have a feeling it’s going to be full of a lot of fun adventures. So start planning now--then get ready to get all packed up.   

In our world, an uncomplicated life is our best life. That’s not to say motherhood isn’t without its hiccups--of that, we know, there are plenty. But through the chaos, and perhaps in spite of it, we came to realize a need for things that make the full picture look a little bit more fluid. ToteSavvy is the solution to keeping you organized, to keeping your life within some boundary of order and to help you keep a piece of the life you used to live. Becoming a mother does not mean you have to sacrifice style, or that bit of edginess you keep slung over your shoulder. Your outfit still deserves its choice of complements, just as you deserve to keep receiving all those compliments on your outfit.  STYLE WITHOUT THE SACRIFICE Live your life uninterrupted. ToteSavvy comes in three convenient sizes so that, no matter what your favorite bag looks like, there’s a size and style that fits you. What’s more, moving your ToteSavvy from bag to bag is an effortless endeavor. Not only are you preserving the integrity of your bag by allowing your ToteSavvy to take the brunt of the wear and tear, you’re able to easily transition by popping it in and out. Two convenient top straps give grab-and-go a new meaning, allowing you to pull out everything it holds in one easy swoop--and then pop it right into your next tote with ease.  HOW TO DO IT SIZED TO ORDER  Ensure all items are in proper order, held securely inside a pocket, and that nothing is loose at the bottom of the organizer. PULL-UP GAME Pull the ToteSavvy insert straight up and out with one hand while holding your handbag with the other. LOWER, SLOWER  To transfer your packed ToteSavvy insert from one tote to another, make sure the new tote is open to its fullest. Then, gently tilting the ToteSavvy down, place one bottom corner inside the tote*.  *Insider tip: If you’re working with a smaller tote, you may need to squeeze the other bottom corner together to help it slide down into the tote.  SHAKE IT ‘TIL YOU MAKE IT Use the handles to gently pull up in a few swift motions to help the insert fall into place inside the tote.    Shop our full collection featuring the three ideal sizes when you visit our online shop today. To learn more about which size is right for you, check out our in-depth ToteSavvy Guide. 

Practically made for each other: the full  list of our must-have accessories to pair with your ToteSavvy  It’s your job to be the mother, but it’s our job to shoulder the heavy lifting. So to save you some much needed time, we went to work to create a full breakdown of our favorite mom-friendly products that just so happen to fit perfectly in your ToteSavvy. Because some things are just better together. And through careful research, we’ve curated a list of perfect accessories to pair with your ToteSavvy.   INFANT   S’WELL BOTTLE S’well bottles are a to-go necessity, keeping beverages cool or warm, and making many a car-ride or stroller cruise a little easier. Plus, it’s another sustainable choice that you can feel good about. (And serious mom hack for formula babies on the move: measure your formula in a bottle, cap it, then keep warm water in the S’well bottle. Pour water from your S’well into your pre-made bottle when you’re ready.) Keep it snug and safe in any one of your ToteSavvy’s tall pockets.   POP PACIFIER  We were so happy for the arrival of the Pop Pacifier, something that’s a natural fit for baby and you--and we happen to mean that quite literally. Eco-friendly, fit for your baby’s mouth, and naturally hygienic, this product is one we keep with us at all times, giving baby peace, and us peace of mind. Bonus: it fits inside any of your ToteSavvy’s small pockets.   BROWN’S NATURAL FLOW ORIGINAL BABY BOTTLE Three of these Dr. Brown’s 8oz. bottles fit snuggly, upright, inside the cooler pocket of our ToteSavvy Deluxe, making everything from full days away from home and road trips alike easy, breezy.  INNOBABY PACKIN’ SMART STACKER  Innobaby makes products that are efficient and smart, making them ideal for moms on-the-go. They work as great for snacks as they do for measured formula, and they fit snuggly in any of your ToteSavvy’s pockets.  MULTI-USE CAR SEAT AND NURSING COVER Products that fold up and come with many uses are what our motherhood dreams are made of, which is why this multi-use nursing cover is always rolled up and tucked away in one of our ToteSavvy pockets. Easily covers your car seat, you and baby while nursing, or it can be used for basic shade when needed.   TODDLER    KLEAN KANTEEN  Klean Kanteen makes mommy favorite Kid Kanteen, another water bottle that we’re rarely without. They come in a variety of fun shapes and designs that the kids love. But we love them most because they easily pop in and out of any of our ToteSavvy’s tall pockets.  LUNCHBOTS CONTAINER Quite literally the perfect fit for our ToteSavvy Deluxe’s insulated cooler packet, so that whether you’re on your way to a playdate, to school, or a picnic in the park, you’ll be cool as a cucumber (and so will your snacks).  STASHER BAGS Stasher bags are the eco-friendly and sustainable answer to snack storage that we’ve been waiting for. Their snack-sized bags also happen to be just the right size for any tall pocket in your ToteSavvy, so that you can keep your little bites--or any various and sundry “little things”--right at your fingertips.  FUNTAINER® STAINLESS STEEL WATER BOTTLE WITH STRAW  The Thermos straw water bottle is something you’ll rarely find us without, especially with that little voice almost always piping up from the stroller or the backseat--”water, water!” But because it fits in any tall pocket, you’ll be answering their request in no time. INNOBABY PACKIN’ SMART STACKER  Innobaby makes products that are efficient and smart, making them ideal for moms on-the-go. They work as great for snacks as they do for measured formula, and they fit snuggly in any of your ToteSavvy’s pockets.  TEGU BLOCKS  Tegu Blocks are the kinds of toys we live for: they essentially keep themselves in order, and they’re just as easy to pack away when strewn about. Which is especially true for the Tegu Blocks Travel Pals, which are the perfect size for any ToteSavvy pocket.  SQUEASY GEAR SNACKER  At this point, you may have noticed a trend: we’re really into things that travel well. As moms, we’re almost always on the move, and things like the Squeasy Gear Snacker (which you’ll always find tucked in our cooler pocket or tall insulated pocket) easily turn our purees into a grab-and-go option.  EVERYONE  PUBLIC GOODS BAMBOO WET WIPES  Mom to mom, we have a not-so-secret secret: we feel better about buying things we trust, and even better when it’s from a company we trust. That’s why we’re always reaching for Public Goods Wet Wipes--because, let’s be honest, we always need wet wipes. These are healthy, sustainable, and always right there when we need them--in any of our ToteSavvy’s tall pockets.  RENA IMAN CLUTCH WALLET  The Rena Iman Clutch Wallet is another 2-in-1 product that makes our lives that much easier. Extremely versatile, it serves as both a wallet, and safekeeping for our credit cards, insurance cards and more, and also as a beautiful accessory that we can move from bag to bag (just like our ToteSavvy). Plus, it’s the perfect size for either our side flat pockets, our laptop pocket, or simply adjacent to your ToteSavvy.   

The Louis Vuitton Neverfull is hands-down the most popular bags to pair with ToteSavvy. It’s a great everyday tote that functions as a gorgeous diaper bag when paired with our organizer. Not in the diaper bag phase of your life? ToteSavvy is still a fantastic option to keep this oversize tote neat and tidy all day long. As far as Neverfull organizers go, ToteSavvy is one of the best-suited options. If you’re new to Neverfulls you’ll want to know they come in three sizes: PM, MM, and GM. PM is the smallest, MM is the medium size, and GM is the largest. The MM and GM are the best sizes for everyday use and hold a lot of essentials. Below we’re breaking down the sizes and showing you which ToteSavvy is best for the MM and GM   MM (Medium Size Neverfull)   The MM works with all 3 of our organizers (Deluxe, Original, Mini), each one fitting differently. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference for which you'll like best. Pictured above is the Deluxe. It takes up most of the room inside the tote and can be considered more of a "snug fit". Original fits the same as Deluxe as these organizers have the same dimensions. If you're looking for a bit more room around the ToteSavvy organizer and a lighter load on your shoulder, we recommend pairing the MM with ToteSavvy Mini. Below you'll see how ToteSavvy Mini provides pockets and organization without being too bulky, making it a great choice if you want to pack other items in your bag.   GM (Large Size Neverfull) The GM size Neverfull is a great all day, everyday bag with a large capacity. We recommend pairing ToteSavvy Deluxe or Original with the GM size. The organizer will sit down inside the tote and offer a ton of organization for everything you carry. You'll still have a little room around the organizer, offering the ability to pack more items or sinch the sides of your tote. Below you'll see how the GM looks with a ToteSavvy Deluxe.    For comparison sake, we want to show you what ToteSavvy Mini would look like in the GM tote. Below you'll see how our smallest size organizer looks inside an oversize tote bag. You'll notice a ton of room for other items which may or may not be to your liking. For this reason, we really only recommend Deluxe or Original for the GM.    Another point to note is how the ToteSavvy organizers sit inside the MM and GM. Below you'll see an image of the Deluxe inside both Neverfull sizes. When paired with the MM, the Deluxe handles peek out slightly. This isn't a problem for most, but again it really comes down to personal preference. If you think having handles peeking out would bug you then opt for ToteSavvy Mini when using the MM! Have more questions? We'd love to answer them in the comments below! 

 Your little is now mobile and you're officially in the toddler phase. While it may seem like you'll need to carry less around with you on a daily basis, the opposite is likely true. Toddlers require a lot of essentials to keep them clean, dry, fed, and entertained. It's exhausting just thinking about it! 😅 Our toddler packing list will keep your toddler calm and content (at least until they see a squirrel) throughout the day. The secret is to pack a variety of snacks, entertainment, and a few "just in case" necessities like a first aid kit. You never know when your little one will fall or just want to cover their body in band-aids for fun.    WHAT TO PACK       With a complete list like this one, we recommend using ToteSavvy Original or Deluxe to get the most capacity out of your organizer. In the below example we're using ToteSavvy Original in Almond. It's the perfect size for everything on our packing list and fits nicely inside any large tote. You can swap for Deluxe if you like to carry cold drinks or perishable snacks. The cooler pocket in Deluxe is great for carrying anything that needs temp control!     

As a pumping mom, it’s crucial to supply yourself with the right essentials and proper organization. We love how ToteSavvy Deluxe offers a fully insulated cooler pocket right inside the organizer. This allows for easy storage and transport of your breastmilk without lugging around an additional bag. You have enough on your shoulders, extras bags shouldn’t be weighing you down. We equally adore the Moxxly Flow when pumping at home or on-the-go. The pump can be worn under your own bra, eliminating the need for a hands-free pumping bra, and allowing you to stay fully clothed while you pump. Nothing is more degrading than stripping off your blouse and bra to squeeze into an uncomfortable pumping bra. Moxxly, we thank you for building a product that allows us to keep our dignity. During your pumping session, we suggest packing the below essentials:   Pump – obvs Moxxly Flow + accessories – your pumping parts Thin ice pack – to keep your breastmilk cool Medela Quick Clean Steam bags – to quickly and easily clean your pump parts Medela Quick Clean wipes – another way to quickly clean your pump parts (we love having options!) Wet wipes – for any spills or just to wipe your hands Hand sanitizer – always sanitize before touching your clean pump and parts. Nipple cream – 100% needed. It will save your nipples from cracking and chaffing Breastmilk pads – to soak up any milk leaks Ziplock bag – to store your clean pump parts between pumping sessions Snack – pumping makes you hungry. Nough said. Water bottle – Always consider your hydration and make it a priority to drink water Phone – It’s helpful with your let-down to look at photos or videos of your baby when pumping All of these essentials fit nicely inside ToteSavvy Deluxe along with your wallet, keys, and other daily items. We suggest pairing Deluxe with an oversized tote as it will allow room to carry the pump motor next to ToteSavvy.    A few notes when packing ToteSavvy Deluxe with your pumping essentials: 1. The pump motor will be too large to fit inside ToteSavvy so you'll need to choose a tote that's large enough to fit the pump next to ToteSavvy. In this example, we're using the Neverfull GM (photo below).  2. You'll notice there's still some room inside the cooler pocket. If you pump multiple times per day, you'll want to bring extra bottles or breastmilk freezer bags. 4-6 bottles will fit inside the cooler pocket. If you're using freezer bags you'll fit even more!  3. We chose to pack a wallet and the pump battery back in the outer x-large pocket. This one has lots more room inside it for a makeup pouch, phone charger, or anything else you take along with you daily.   

Narrowing down your diaper bag contents can be extremely freeing. It’s not always necessary to pack the entire nursery, which is why we built this minimalist packing list. Carry what you need without lugging around what you don't. Our minimalist packing list includes essentials you’ll need for your infant or toddler (12 - 36 months) without any unneeded extras. The keys items here are snacks, entertainment, and a few extra items to keep you prepared. Pro tip: When packing an extra outfit, roll it together (bib and socks included), then place inside the tall pocket. This space-saving hack allows you to be prepared for spills and accidents without adding bulk.   Download the packing list   We used ToteSavvy Mini to show you just how compact your diaper bag really can be. One of our favorite things about ToteSavvy Mini is how versatile it is. Pop it inside your favorite medium size handbag when you want to dress up, then switch to a backpack for a day at the park. Take a look at the packing video below to see how easily you can transfer from tote to backpack.     

image courtesy of @tracitaylorcollective   As a seasoned mom, I’d like to think I know a thing or two about packing my ToteSavvy for a newborn baby. I also happen to have experience in both breastfeeding and bottle feeding my babies. My oldest was breastfed for 6-months (after a VERY rough start) and my twins were breastfed for about a week then formula fed. Throughout my time with teeny babies, I learned a lot about what’s needed inside your diaper bag and what can be left at home. ESSENTIALS FOR BREASTFEEDING When you’re nursing you have to think about what your body needs along with what you’ll need for baby. Always have a large bottle of water with you (I love Swell bottles because they keep liquids cold for 48 hours!) and protein bars (or another easy snack) to curve hunger. I remember keeping granola bars on my nightstand because I would be starving as soon as I woke up to nurse my daughter. The same thing happened when we were out and about. Whenever hunger hit, I made sure to be prepared with a tasty bar. My favorites are RX bars and Go Macro bars. Other than water and snacks for myself, here’s my condensed list of what you really need inside your diaper bag when nursing a newborn.  Download the packing list Watch the packing video   All of this fits inside ToteSavvy Original size making it easy for you to tote around your essentials inside any tote you love. I suggest pairing ToteSavvy original inside a large tote for the most room. When my kids were newborns I liked having extra space around my ToteSavvy and even carried a weekender as my daily tote. It was fabulous!     ESSENTIALS FOR BOTTLE FEEDING After struggling to breastfeed my first I decided not to put pressure on myself to breastfeed my second. As luck would have it, I ended up pregnant with twins instead of another singleton (a word I never heard until after having twins). From the get-go, I knew I couldn’t exclusively breastfeed twins so I set myself up to pump and formula feed. Pumping lasted about a week and then I transitioned fully into formula feeding. When you bottle feed you actually carry a lot more around with you which means you have to be even more strategic with your packing. I purchased the short Tommee Tippee bottles that can be stacked inside ToteSavvys pockets. I would carry around 4 five ounce bottles (pre-filled with water) and a stacker of pre-measured formula. To make a bottle you simply pour the formula into the bottle and shake. Super easy. Other than bottles and formula, my packing list was pretty similar to what I packed while breastfeeding. Here’s what I suggest packing when bottle feeding a newborn. NOTE: This example is for one baby, not twins, though we're working on a packing tutorial for twins and multiples! Download the packing list! Watch the packing video   If you’re pumping and bottle feeding on-the-go, I recommend pre-filling your bottles with breastmilk and storing them inside the cooler pocket. You’ll have a little extra room as you won’t need to carry the formula along with you! All of the above essentials fit nicely inside ToteSavvy Deluxe. I prefer Deluxe when carrying bottles because you can store them inside the roomy cooler pocket. The laptop sleeve can easily double as a place to store folded clothing. Don’t let the “intended purpose” shy you away from this style!   Want to see more packing action? Watch our packing tutorials for newborns, toddlers, and more! Take a sneak peek at the tutorial for packing while breastfeeding below.       

While ToteSavvy may have been originally designed for moms, we’re no longer a one trick pony. ToteSavvy Deluxe was created to suit the needs of not only parents but all women. We know you’re carrying your day along with you and you’re in need of some organization. ToteSavvy Deluxe is a great option to give your tote that little boost you’ve been looking for. Here’s what we suggest carrying with you and how to pack it inside our Deluxe organizer.     LAPTOP One of ToteSavvy Deluxe’s most unique features is its plush-lined laptop sleeve. This pocket is large enough for a 13” laptop or tablet, and padded for extra support. If you carry your laptop regularly, this pocket comes in super handy by keeping your tech from knocking around your tote. For larger laptops that are too wide for the laptop pocket, we suggest placing them down the center of your ToteSavvy to keep it secured inside your handbag.   HEALTHY LUNCH Packing a healthy lunch or snacks is becoming a popular trend, but it’s not always easy to carry those items inside your handbag. To avoid lugging an extra lunch bag around with you, ToteSavvy is equipped with a double-wide cooler pocket. It’s wide enough for a bento-style lunch box (we love Lunchbots large bento!) or a beverage and a few snacks. FUN FACT: This pocket fits 4 La Croix cans when you stack 3 across and lay one on top.   PLANNER Whether you carry a sleek and simple planner or a thick, luxe version, ToteSavvy has the right pocket to organize it. The wide outer pocket (opposite side from the laptop side) is perfect for medium to large size planners that are thick. If your planner is over 9” x 12”, we suggest carrying it inside the laptop pocket, or alongside that side of the ToteSavvy.   CELL PHONE / SMALL ITEMS You shouldn’t have to dig through your handbag looking for your cell phone. This is why we added a pocket, sized perfectly for your cell phone, at the top of ToteSavvy Deluxe. Quickly access your phone without disturbing the rest of your essentials. ToteSavvy Deluxe also has 3 small pockets which are perfect for keeping smaller items in place. We love packing lip balm, hair ties, hand sanitizer, gum, and other miscellaneous items in there.   WATER BOTTLE Slip a water bottle inside any of the tall pockets inside ToteSavvy Deluxe. The pocket will keep your water bottle from tipping over and stay easily accessible throughout your day.   SPARE OUTFIT Anyone else like having a backup shirt in their handbag?? If you’re prone to spills or work in an environment that requires a pristine appearance, we highly recommend packing an extra blouse or camisole inside your Totesavvy. Use the Marie Kondo folding method (tutorial here!) to fold your clothing before slipping it inside one of the tall pockets. Even if you don’t need it daily, you’ll be glad you have it. MAKEUP POUCH Along the lines of packing a spare shirt, it’s a good idea to pack a few makeup items to get you through your day. This doesn’t mean you need to pack a full kit to contour your face, but pack whatever it is that makes you feel refreshed and put together. For instance, tinted lip balm, mascara, blush stick, deodorant, hand cream, etc. are all great options for an emergency makeup kit. When you’re on-the-go all day, it’s nice knowing you can freshen up at a moments notice.  

It’s officially January, which means it’s also officially resolution season. One of the most common resolutions we hear is to stay fit. It’s an admirable resolution and one that many of us struggle with. No judgment here… we too have struggled with keeping to a workout schedule. It’s a daunting thought to jump right into a workout routine as soon as the holidays are over. This is exactly why we want to help make the transition into an active lifestyle that much easier. From personal experience, we’ve learned you’re more likely to hit the gym (at some point during the day) if you pack your bag in advance. It may seem too simple to work but here’s the thing… if you’re constantly reminded by the sneakers or yoga pants inside your bag, you’ll make more of an effort to get to the gym and cross it off your list. Being prepared for the gym also makes the transition smoother, eliminating any excuses you may come up with. Here’s how we suggest packing your ToteSavvy Deluxe so you don’t skip out on your resolution. PACK YOUR WORKOUT OUTFIT One of the great things about ToteSavvy Deluxe is it’s extra roomy. This means you can pack your workout gear inside the same handbag you’re carrying around all day. Nice right?! Your workout bag won’t be forgotten in the back of your trunk so your motivation will stay front and center with you throughout the day. Like to workout first thing in the morning? Pack your outfit inside ToteSavvy instead! Flats fit easily inside the large outer pocket. This comes in handy if you like to pack them to swap out heels towards the end of the day too. BRING AMPLE WATER AND SNACKS Pack a large water bottle to keep you hydrated throughout your workout and day. A reusable water bottle is also an eco-friendly option, helping you with another resolution of living green. Don’t forget to pack snacks for pre and post workout. We love things like protein bars, whole fruits, and nuts. The cooler pocket is a great spot to store these items and keep them cool throughout your day. POST WORKOUT TOUCH UP ESSENTIALS Depending on the time of day you like to hit the gym, you may want to carry a few essentials to freshen up afterward. ToteSavvy’s tall pockets are a great place to store deodorant, face wipes, a few makeup necessities, and more. If needed, the tall pockets could even fit a compact blow dryer, hairbrush, and styling products.   Now that your bag is packed, you’re that much more likely to keep to your plan and hit the gym. If your goal is to work out a few times a week, we recommend packing your ToteSavvy the night before with these essentials so you don't have to rush in the morning. Because 2019 is also going to be the year of zero stress.

  I can’t believe Halloween is almost here! I’m extra excited because this year my daughter is old enough to start to grasp “Trick or Treating.” I can’t wait to see her go door to door with her little candy bag….eeek! While Halloween is super fun for the kids, it is pretty damn chaotic for parents. Here’s what to pack in your ToteSavvy mini to help you survive the night. For me, there are two main categories that come to mind when talking about Trick or Treating: safety and comfort. Let’s talk about a few things to help keep everyone safe, especially since it’s dark outside. My town doesn’t have streetlights (like, people do. not. want. them.) and I live on a windy road, so safety is very important to me. Visibility is really important, so pack some glow sticks from the Dollar Tree or the Dollar Spot (at Target) for your kids to wear. I have yet to see a kid object to putting on a fun glow bracelet or necklace, and you can always use the extras in the bathtub another day Have you tried that? It’s a big hit in our house. Make sure to dim the lights! Lots of costumes, while cute, are pretty cumbersome. You have poofy dresses, ill-fitting bottoms with fake feet, and all sorts of crazy accessories. That, combined with excitement, other kiddos, and darkness, it can lead to some falls and scrapes. Diaper Bag Buddy is a mini first aid kit that’s perfect for an occasion like this! This way, you can fix up that boo-boo (see what I did there?) and be on your way. You also want to be able to see where you’re going when you’re walking from house to house! Grab some flashlights for you to light the way for your little ones. You can never have too many around your house (or in your emergency kit). I also love these safety sticks. They turn on and off and are reusable, which is so great.   Now that we have safety out of the way, let’s talk about comfort. It’s nice to bring this up a notch to make this a memorable experience! Snacks. Any parent knows that a well-fed kid is a much happier kid (hell, this could apply to any person in general). No one likes to be hangry. Make sure to pack some nutritious snacks because they’ve probably had some sweets already. Since there will be snacking and candy-eating, grab some Neat Cheeks to make clean up a snap.  The last thing you want to be dealing with is a sticky mess in the dark. #nope Don’t forget to take an extra sweater for yourself and for the kids. The last thing you want is a cold and whiny kiddo on Halloween. On that note, grab some hand warmers to keep you extra toasty as you walk from house to house! There's nothing worse than being too cold. While Halloween is mostly about kids, don’t forget about yourself! Maybe it’s just my neighborhood, but every parent can be seen with a red cup in their hand while kids go from house to house. Get yourself through the night by taking your beverage of choice in a cute Halloween container. Red wine would look great in this cup… so spooky!   If you want to go over the top, here are some other things you could add: Grab an extra (empty) bag to carry around in case your kid gets tired of their obnoxiously large accessory, or to carry extra candy. Baggu makes bags that squish up into practically nothing. With all of this house-to-house going during flu season, bringing some hand sanitizer might not be a bad idea. This glow in the dark tape also looks cool, and it could be a nice addition for a costume. Happy Trick or Treating!

  ToteSavvy original size is one of the most versatile organizers with it's varying pocket sizes and overall large capacity. One of my favorite pockets on ToteSavvy original is the flap pocket. It's by far the largest pocket, making it perfect for packing just about anything. Below you'll find my 6 favorite variations to packing this pocket for myself and my young daughter.   Cloth diapers - Cloth diapers, while wonderful, are bulky. The flap pocket has extra room to store several cloth diapers, perfect for those days when you’re gone for a while.   A change of clothes - There will be times, especially in the very beginning, when you may need to change your shirt or change your baby’s entire outfit. This pocket is large enough to fit an outfit for your child, and an extra shirt for you. I can also imagine this pocket being useful for when you’re at an amusement park and maybe taking layers on and off throughout the day.   Lunch - Recently, I bought A.J. a Lunchbots lunch box. My friends (who have elementary aged children) love them for their kids, so I decided to buy one for my daughter. I love the compact design of this lunchbox, as opposed to other lunch boxes that are practically a mini briefcase. Despite its size, you can fit a ton of food. If I cut it into triangles, I can fit an entire peanut butter and jelly sandwich in one of the small compartments! They come in lots of configurations and are dishwasher safe.    Entertainment - This pocket is perfect for packing some toys and games for your child. It’s big enough to fit crayons, a notepad, a couple of books, some Legos...whatever you need.    Seasonal Items - Depending on the season, you may need a few key items to get through the day. In the summer, this pocket is a great place for a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses. In the winter, put a hat and mittens in the pocket just in case.   Mom’s essentials - Sometimes you may want all of your things in one place. The pocket is big enough to fit everything you need for your day: your wallet, phone, cosmetic pouch, and some snacks. It leaves the other pockets free for your child(ren).   The flap pocket is such a game changer! How will you use it?

    One of the pluses about having outgrown the newborn stage is that you can get away with packing very few things in your handbag. I can’t tell you how good it feels to go out and do errands with a smaller handbag. It feels so light and freeing!   Here’s what I pack in my bag for myself and my two-and-a-half year old: As always, make sure you have your own stuff: keys, wallet, phone, lip balm, and sunglasses. You only need to carry one diaper (or pull-up) with you and have some wipes on hand. Bring a small water bottle for your child; it easily slips into our insulated pocket. Don’t forget snacks! I don’t know about your children, but my daughter runs on snacks. Bring a few different ones so they can pick something out themselves. Lastly, bring a simple activity for them to do. This can be useful while waiting for an appointment, going out to lunch, or even in the car. Some ideas are crayons and a small notepad, a book, a lacing activity, or some stickers. Lately, I have been seeing clear zip pouches all over - these would be perfect to house a quick activity for your toddler. Check the Dollar Spot at Target (or even go to the Dollar Tree) for quick and cheap activities.   I don’t know about you, but I am really enjoying the freedom I have while out and about with my daughter. It almost makes up for the tantrums and crying that I experience on a daily basis! Almost.

  Packing your purse or diaper bag can be so overwhelming! You want to carry enough so that you have everything you need, however you don’t want to be lugging around a suitcase full of things for your baby. Here at ToteSavvy, we’ve had many years of mothering (and a combined 4 newborns) so we have a tailored down list for you! Here are the basic things you’ll need in your ToteSavvy when you’re out and about. We know newborns are needy (because they have to be!) but let’s talk about your stuff first. Remember to take your wallet, keys, and phone. It might seem obvious, but I’ve forgotten at least one of these things before! Bring a snack for yourself, as well as a water bottle. You can be a better mom if you’re fed and hydrated. I even keep snacks for myself in my car so I'm never going without. I love my mini pochette. Inside, I keep mascara, lip gloss, a brow pencil, band-aids, a pen, and some hair ties. I never go anywhere without it! Now, for the baby! You may have extra things you want to take, but here’s a fairly comprehensive list! Diapers and wipes: You’ll need to take several diapers and lots of wipes. There are so many blowouts when they’re brand new. An extra outfit (see: blowouts, above) Milk: Pack either formula or breast milk, and keep it in our insulated pocket for temperature regulation. Newborns use tiny bottles, so you can stack two in there! If you're nursing and not using a bottle be sure to pack any essentials that make nursing easier for you. A carrier- Sometimes a stroller or car seat just isn't going to cut it. Your baby just wants you!  Babywearing is wonderful for many reasons, one of which is that it enables you to still have your hands free while giving your baby the closeness he or she desires. I adored my ring sling! One of the many benefits of a ring sling is that it can tightly roll up and be slipped into a pocket in your ToteSavvy. I was too intimidated to use a ring sling for the longest time, but I wish I had used them from the get-go! (Note: I highly recommend finding your local Babywearing International chapter, they can help you with, and even loan you, a ring sling. I bought a very reasonably priced one from Sleeping Baby Productions. There’s also a few B/S/T groups on Facebook!) A blanket: Copper Pearl makes the softest blankets! A blanket could be used for nursing, a car seat cover, or for warmth. Plus, their prints are adorable! The tiny pockets in the ToteSavvy are perfect for nipple cream or diaper cream. My daughter gets a diaper rash easily, so we always kept some cream on hand. Don’t forget your hand sanitizer! I loop mine around a ToteSavvy handle so that I have easy access. My daughter was a major paci lover, so a pacifier and clip went everywhere with us for the first year of her life. A paci really comes in handy during car rides when you’re unable to help soothe your baby!  When I was a new mom, I even went so far as to make a little checklist so I knew I'd have the necessities. It's so easy to forget something when you are exhausted and sleep deprived. We hope this list helps packing your bag just that much easier. You got this, mama!    

  As my daughter has gotten older, my handbag needs have changed. A.J. goes to daycare a couple times a week and in the fall she will start preschool. When I’m not with her, sometimes it’s nice to really pare down what’s in my bag, and leave my toddler necessities at home. The ToteSavvy Mini is perfect for this purpose. That way I can just keep it by the door, dropping it in my purse on the way out. Here are some things I pack in my Mini so it's always ready when I need it: One pull-up, and a small pack of wipes: We rarely need to do a diaper change while we’re doing errands. If I’m to be totally honest, sometimes I may not even have a pull-up with me because I keep a deluxe changing kit in my trunk with several of them. A variety of snacks: My toddler’s preferences change more often than the wind (I know you can relate)! I keep a few bars, a fruit pouch or two, or some crackers. A sippy cup: I only pack water in my Mini so that if I forget about a sippy cup, it’s not the end of the world. I recently found what must have been weeks old sippy cups in my car and was so thankful that they weren't full of milk! Entertainment: I will pack a book, some stickers, and maybe some blank paper she can color on. The middle compartment is perfect for this. We shared our top picks in this post. Odds and ends: The small pockets are perfect for things like hair ties, bows, and band-aids. Now that it’s summer, I will pack a small bottle of sunscreen. If you can’t find a small bottle of your preferred sunscreen, buy a tiny squeeze bottle and pour the contents in there. There’s no reason to carry around more weight than you have to! Hand sanitizer: I will forever have my hand sanitizer looped on to the handle so that I can access it easily. Plus, it frees up a pocket for something else!   The ToteSavvy Mini is much more compact than the original size, however you may be surprised how much can fit inside! It’s so nice to have my Mini by the door so that as I’m heading out with my daughter I can just throw it in my bag on the way out!        

Have you thought about your New Year's resolutions? Instead of a resolution looming over you the entire year, consider using our tips to simplify and strategize your life. Below you'll find tips from Hilary (our fabulous copywriter) and Lauren (our CEO)!   Goal #1: Work smarter, not harder   Hilary's Tips: My mom told me something she heard on a podcast the other day. "If something takes under a minute to do, just do it." I have really been trying to do just that, and it's working out well so far. These are little things I can sneak in when I have a free moment, and at the end of the day, it will have added up to much more. My goal is also to spend less time on my phone. When my daughter goes down for a nap, or to bed, it's easy to get out my phone and mindlessly scroll. However, there are so many ways I could otherwise be using my time. Sure, you could tackle some chores, but I'm talking about playing dominoes with my husband, doing a quick workout, reading a magazine, painting my nails, or, you know, sleeping. Being a stay at home mom can feel really isolating, and I find myself using my phone as a way to feel connected to the world.    Lauren's Tips: I recently read this article on The Every Girl and completely fell in love with it. The advice isn't groundbreaking (it's actually very basic) but it helped me feel like I don't need to be perfect to be a great mom. Number four is my favorite. Whenever I'm asked to bring something to a class party or friend's house, I feel the need to present a homemade Pinterest masterpiece. Next time I'm ordering cupcakes from the local bakery. 🤗  Keeping up with your inbox is one of the biggest productivity killers. I've learned to set aside 30-minute increments in my day to answer emails and clear out my inbox. I start with the most important issues and work my way to the simple responses. It may be a faux pas, but if a response isn't a priority, I generally push it off a few days. Friends and family know if they need a quick response, texting or calling is the way to go!       Goal #2: Get your child(ren) to help you     Hilary's Tips: Now that my daughter is 2, it is time to start having her help out around the house. Yes, you heard me! Chores are so important for kids. Not only do they help you out, but they build self-esteem, as well. Kids feel like they can contribute to the family, and it builds skills for adulthood. It is easy to underestimate what kids can do, especially when they're tiny and are still pooping their pants (diapers) on a regular basis. What I learned as a teacher, though, is that they will nearly always rise to the occasion. It’ll be worth it in the end. Here's an example of some age-appropriate chores. Remember, they're cumulative and build upon each other. Hell. Yes.   Lauren's Tips: Hilary and I are completely on the same page when it comes to having your children help out around the house. It's great for their benefit but also takes some of the stress off of your shoulders. Huge win, win!  Create a docking station: As soon as my kids arrive home from school, they know they need to take their shoes off, hang up their backpacks, and place their jacket in their cubby. Even the 2-year-old twins know exactly what to do and love that it pleases mommy so much. I created a little docking station for the three of them with a cubby bookshelf, these bins, and 3M hooks.  Self-serve snacks: One of my pet peeves is when my kids ask for snacks ALL DAY LONG. To help with this issue we created an area in our kitchen where our kids can find child-appropriate food to help themselves to. These storage containers are great for cereal and crackers. We even have a little measuring cup inside to help them scoop. Their plastic bowls and cups are also stored in a large drawer at their level. We also keep fresh fruit in a bowl they can easily access.    Goal #3: Prepare for the week ahead   Hilary's Tips: I have a little Sunday ritual. I take some time to fill in my planner with appointments and other obligations. I write out a general to-do list for the week. I write a grocery list and plan out what we will eat this week. I will look for coupons on some more expensive items, and I'll check Target's Cartwheel section (on their app) for any deals. Since I'm primarily a stay at home mom, I have learned that my days are very unpredictable. This is the complete opposite from when I was a teacher. My life was planned out to the minute! Literally! Now, I write a general to-do list for the week and plan a little time each day to tackle the list. I don't write anything specific for the day (unless absolutely necessary), and I pick a few items I feel like tackling during that time. It gives me more flexibility and I feel like less of a failure if things don't go according to plan.   Lauren's Tips: Bullet Journaling: I recently found bullet journaling (I know I'm super late to this party) and fell in love with how quickly you can manage just about every aspect of your life in a visually pleasing way. I stick to the very basic layouts (no caligraphy here), planning my weekly schedule, long-term projects, daily goals (like drinking enough water), and everything in between. It's helpful for me to plan ahead so when I open up my notebook on Monday morning, I can quickly transition into the work week without the extra cup of coffee to jumpstart my brain. If you're interested in a simple layout (like me) check these out. Perfectly simple!   Meal Planning: I both love and loathe to cook. When I have time, cooking feels relaxing and I genuinely enjoy preparing a nice meal for my family. On busy weeknights, the last thing I want to do is spend 30 minutes in the kitchen. Knowing this about myself, I plan a special meal every week (one that takes around 30-minutes to prepare) and 3-4 quick meals that really only require tossing a few things together. I grocery shop over the weekend so my fridge is fully stocked, saving me from the grocery store on weeknights. My favorite quick meals are Turkey Tacos, Turkey or Veggie Burgers (the Trader Joes Sweet Chili Veggie Burgers (frozen) are amazing! 🙌), and Teriyaki Pineapple Meatballs (Costco!) with pasta. Sometimes I swap the pasta for carrot noodles (also found frozen at Trader Joes) when I'm feeling extra healthy.      Goal #4: Simplify  Hilary's Tips: I have been doing a lot of thinking lately. What do I absolutely need to do ( It's a lot less than I thought. My biggest goal is to accept simplicity. This is a goal of mine every year. Being an anxious, Type A personality, I tend to be sorrrrrta neurotic. I have gotten better at saying no to things that make life too busy and hectic. It’s hard, and sometimes I feel guilty, but I’m much happier when I’m not stressed. Remember, "No," is a complete sentence! Don't always feel like you need to give a reason as to why you can't do something. I need to be better at setting realistic goals. I love to think I can do everything, but I can't. For instance, instead of cooking dinner 6 nights a week, my goal is now 3-4. I buy prepared food more often, and the meals are more simple than I'd prefer, but it is what it is. My family has full bellies and full hearts and that's what matters. Lauren's Tips: Simplicity has had a major comeback lately, and for good reason. I find myself striving to simply just about every aspect of my life so I can feel like there's room to breathe again.  Consider what's most important: Similar to the tips above, simplifying your life is really about figuring out what's most important to you, planning a way to achieve those things, and eliminating the rest. Like Hilary mentioned, learning to say "no" without guilt is key. It's okay to say no from time to time. Every single person you know will understand.  Channel your inner Marie Kondo: Clutter tends to complicate so a great way to simplify is to reduce the amount of clutter (possessions) in your life. If something isn't 1) useful, 2) meaningful, or 3) pleasant to look at, do you really need it? If the answer is no, get rid of it. It's incredibly freeing to be in an environment where everything meets that 3 critiera.      Goal #5: What can I take off my plate? Hilary's Tips: I tend to be very good at taking things on and not so good scaling back my life. This is definitely a work in progress for me! As moms, our "plates" are always overflowing. Have you heard of the mental load? It's really resonated with me and has rung 100% true. My husband is wonderful and he is "all in" as a father and husband, but there's just something about how differently our brains work. He's not thinking about what to pack weeks before we head on a vacation, and he's not losing sleep about what preschool our daughter should go to. I've learned to a) ask for help and b) delegate things to other people when I can (my husband is in charge of certain people's Christmas presents, for instance). I don't like asking for help. I like to think that I can do everything by myself, all the time. That is sooooo far from the truth.    Lauren's Tips: My personality type wants to do everything, all at once. I know that's not realistic (or healthy) so learning to take things off my plate has been an ongoing project.   Delegate at home: I'm the worst at asking for help, even when it's simply asking my husband to share in the meal prep or start bathtime. But if I don't ask, how will he know I need help? It took a while to get into the routine of asking, but now I'll do it without hesitation. Even better, my husband knows what I'll ask before I do and sometimes has already taken care of it.  Delegate at work: You have a team at work for a reason. Use them! For some reason I used to be timid to pass along projects to teammates, thinking it was inconveniencing them. Now I know to have an open line of communication. Sometimes it's best for me to keep the task, other times a teammate is eager to tackle it.    Here's to a wonderful 2018!

As I browsed around the first floor of Bloomingdale's, pregnant with my first child, I felt disappointed with the lack of fashionable diaper bag options. I’ve always had a thing for handbags, and to this day, believe your handbag makes your outfit. Surrounding the lackluster diaper bags was a magnificent selection of gorgeous totes, satchels, crossbodys, and every other bag you could dream of. Each had it’s own unique style––evoking a joyous feeling as I placed one particular style on my shoulder. Why didn’t I get this same feeling when browsing diaper bags? Simple. Because they were diaper bags. Then and there I decided I didn’t want to purchase a diaper bag I didn’t love. Why spend so much money on something I dreaded carrying? Instead, I gleefully walked into the Louis Vuitton store within the department store and asked to see a Neverfull. Now, this bag was awesome! I left the store without a diaper bag but instead with a bag I had been eyeing years. A bag that made me feel special and beautiful when I put it on my shoulder. This bag would be the perfect bag to keep me feeling myself after baby arrived. It was perfect. If you own a Neverfull you already know just how great the tote is, but also how unorganized it can become––especially when carrying around essentials for you and your baby. ToteSavvy was created specifically for this reason; to organize the open space inside your tote and make it compatible as a diaper bag. If this sounds like you and you’d rather carry a handbag you love over a short-lived diaper bag, ToteSavvy is perfect for you! Below are our tips for pairing ToteSavvy with the Neverfull to create the best diaper bag ever. *If you don’t own a Neverfull, any large tote will work similarly! Neverfull MM The medium size Neverfull is a great size for a diaper bag. It pairs with both ToteSavvy and ToteSavvy Mini. Below are images of both size inserts for reference. Left: Neverfull MM paired with ToteSavvy (original size). Right: Neverfull MM paired with ToteSavvy Mini Let's break down how each size ToteSavvy fits inside the MM Neverfull. The original size ToteSavvy (larger size) takes up the whole inner capacity of the tote. If you like a snug fit and don't want to see any wiggle room around your organizer, this is the perfect combo for you.  If you prefer to have room around your organizer for extra items, or just aren't a fan of a snug fit, we highly recommend paring ToteSavvy Mini (small size) with your MM Neverfull. As you can see from the image above, there's a decent amount of room around the organizer, allowing your tote to look less full.    Neverfull GM We highly recommend using the original size ToteSavvy inside the GM. It’s a near perfect fit and offers a little room around the sides for extra items like a blanket or sweater. Below you’ll see images of both the ToteSavvy and ToteSavvy Mini inside the GM. Left: Neverfull GM pictured with ToteSavvy Mini. Right: Neverfull GM with ToteSavvy (original size).  As you can see in the photos above, ToteSavvy is just about a perfect fit for the Neverfull GM. We wouldn't call this a "snug" fit because there's some room around the organizer, offering space for a blanket or sweater.  The ToteSavvy Mini, however, leaves a lot of room around the organizer. For this reason, we don't typically recommend pairing your GM with ToteSavvy Mini. With that said, some customers may prefer this fit. It comes down to your own personal preference.    Side by Side: GM vs. MM Our most popular ToteSavvy is the original size. Below you'll see a side by side comparison of the original size ToteSavvy in both the GM and MM Neverfull totes. This pairing truly does make an awesome diaper bag––one that you'll love for years! Shop ToteSavvy

    If you asked me a year ago, just the idea of air travel with my 3 kids would have brought on instant panic. We once flew with our 18-month twins and preschooler, thinking it wouldn’t be that bad. Well, it was that bad. It was so bad in fact that one passenger asked the flight attendant for scotch tape for our kids’ mouths. My husband wrote a hilarious blog post about this flight and others we’ve faced. If you’re in the mood for a fun read I highly recommend it. After our awful flight, we decided to stay put for a while until our twins were older and more capable of handling air travel. Luckily, we didn’t have a reason to leave home so staying around town was easy to do. Fast-forward to August 2017 after we committed to two trips (both 5-hour flights) all within 3 weeks of one another. Knowing what we experienced 6-months ago, I was not eager to get my kids on an airplane anytime soon, but the allure of visiting family and a tropical vacation calmed my anxiety. This time around I was determined to do things right. I took what I learned from the first few flights with 3 littles and applied them to my upcoming trips. I hope my mommy-hacks prove helpful to you as well. If they can help just one family get through a painstaking trip, then my job is done.   TIP #1  Make your kids carry their own stuff It may seem counterintuitive to have your kids carry their own things but trust me on this one. It really makes a difference. In my past trips, I was determined to cram diapering essentials, snacks, waters (for 4 people), clothing, entertainment, and my own necessities into one large carry-on handbag. What was I thinking?!?! My handbag ended up weighing about 15lbs and although it was nicely organized (thanks, ToteSavvy!) it was a pain to hold everyone’s stuff. Each time one of my kids wanted a snack or a coloring book, I had to reach down, grab it from my bag, and hand it to them. I realize this isn’t that big of a problem but as a mom with three kids, I was over it after the 5th ask. Instead of trying to carry everything yourself, have your kids each carry a backpack with their own activities, snacks, and water. Our flight was immensely better with this setup. Each child had their own seat (they were all over the age of 2) and their own backpack under the seat in front of them. If they wanted anything at all, they could reach down and grab it themselves. To my amazement, even my 2-year old twins loved this convenience. They thrived off of the independence and loved digging through their backpacks looking for hidden treasures (aka goldfish crackers and cookies).   Land of Nod backpack pictured above   On our first trip this summer my twins wore Land of Nod backpacks (pictured above). While I loved these adorable designs and large capacity, the size was a little large for their small frames. I think in a year or so they will fit much better and be a great option. Because of the size issues, we ended up hooking their backpacks on the stroller through the airport. This wasn’t a big deal to me but I find it necessary to fully disclose that my children didn’t actually walk through the whole airport with backpacks in tow. On our second trip, my twins wore these adorable little backpacks by My Little Pack Company. Aren’t they just precious?! The size of these was beyond perfect for a 2-year old frame, while still holding enough snacks and entertainment tools for a 5-hour trip.     My Little Pack Company backpack pictured above     TIP #2 Pack snacks, snacks, an iPad, and more snacks From my first tip, I think you’re getting the idea that snacks are essential when we travel. My kids don’t get a ton of snack food at home. We stock the house with crackers but rarely cookies, squeezers, gummies, and other snack foods. This comes in super handy when I need to keep my kids happy for 5-hours. They are so excited to be eating animal crackers that they’re well behaved for 15-minute increments. Along with a backpack full of snacks we carried an iPad (in our adult bags) for entertainment. I’m sure this isn’t everyone’s favorite form of distraction but it works for us and I honestly would rather have happy, quiet children than other passengers asking for scotch tape again. My preschooler happily watched a couple movies for both trips while my twins tuned in off and on throughout the flight. I found that rotating their “distraction” worked best. I would offer a snack, then offer a movie, then a sticker book, and so on. Once I had exhausted all of my options I was back at option 1 with a happy toddler ready for another snack. One last mon-tip is to pack a large booklet of stickers. My toddlers happily unpeeled and stuck stickers on themselves for at least 2 hours during the flight. 🤷‍♀️     TIP #3 Don’t forget to bring a stroller Ha! This is a big one. I can’t even believe we attempted this but hey.. you live and learn. If you don’t want to carry your children, bring a stroller. Hell, bring anything with wheels. They will not want to walk alongside you, and when they do want to be independent, they will be running full speed towards something hazardous. You can take your stroller all the way to the gate and check it under the plane right before boarding the aircraft. Be sure to let the front desk associates know you’re doing this so they can give you a special tag for your stroller.   TIP #4  Get digital with your boarding pass My husband loves efficiency so anything that helps streamline our day he’s all over. On travel days he makes sure to download all of our boarding passes to his iPhone so he can easily hand over his phone when going through security and boarding the plane. You can quickly swipe to see all boarding passes, and even scan them from your phone. Easy peasy. TIP #5 Look into Clear or TSA Pre Waiting in a security line with three kids is not fun. Then when you finally get up to the front you have to practically undress everyone and unpack your carry-on before proceeding. To make your life easier, consider signing up for TSA Pre Check or Clear if you fly regularly. Depending on which service you use, you may not even need to take your shoes off. Liquids and electronics still have to come out of your bag but it’s much less chaotic when you’re not chasing your toddler barefoot.   TIP #6 Organize your carry-on bag Carrying an organized bag on your flight is a no-brainer. It will help you access what you need, when you need it, and keep you feeling together. For my two trips this summer I decided to try something different. For the first trip, I took my Fawn Design bag––packed with a ToteSavvy Mini. For my second trip, I took a Goyard St. Louis Tote––packed with a ToteSavvy original size. My packing list was very similar for each trip which allowed me to determine which style of bag I preferred.   Here’s my verdict...   Carrying a tote has its pros and cons, as does carrying a backpack. I personally like being hands-free when traveling so the backpack is a clear winner for me. One benefit the open tote has is it's easier to access what you need. You can also bring your ToteSavvy original size (large) which helps carry more stuff.  Unfortunately, those pros were not enough to sway my opinion of carrying a tote bag while traveling from now on.    For future trips, my perfect situation will be using a convertible tote/backpack that fulfills all of my pros and none of my cons. Stay tuned for recommendations as I find them!    my large travel tote (Goyard + ToteSavvy original)   my travel backpack (Fawn Design + ToteSavvy Mini)    

Now that my daughter is a toddler, she loves carrying things around on her arms or shoulders. If there’s a stray grocery bag, shopping bag, or any sort of thing with a handle, she’s on it. Lauren mentioned to me how she wanted her kids to carry their own stuff for their summer trips (genius idea, by the way).  Since our kids are of similar ages, I wanted to give it a go myself, especially since we have some traveling coming up this summer. I cannot even explain how delighted my daughter was when she saw that she was able to try out not one, but two backpacks. My Little Pack Company makes the cutest mini backpacks for toddlers.  A lot of backpacks tend to be really large, making them too big for our little ones. I love the smaller size, and the padded straps made it so comfortable for my daughter to wear. It’s very neutral so it will go with everything! It’s perfect for an everyday outing with your kiddo. They just launched some really adorable patterns in their shop!     This backpack is perfect for carrying our bottle bag along with some other toys or books. I was actually able to fit a Munchkin 360 Miracle Cup in there along with a small section of my GoStak (yes, it's made for gym supplements - but clearly I use them in other ways!) that I use.   I tried to show that in this picture, but someone was too excited to stay away.     She was even wearing it while eating her breakfast. Can you see a little peek of her  ezpz Happy Bowl in this picture?   {Food in both hands, as usual. We love our Guidecraft Kitchen Helper, btw.}   {Lauren's twins sporting perfectly sized little packs. Swoon!} The second backpack we tried was from Land of Nod. It’s bigger in size and very colorful! I love how it had large zipper pulls for little hands.  This backpack would be perfect for a plane ride or a long day out. Although the backpack is bigger in size, it was not too big for my tall 21 month old. This particular backpack happens to fit our ToteSavvy Mini really well! We packed it full of goodies for our day. We packed a drink, some snacks, a book, some toys, a doll, sunglasses, a hat, and her diapers and wipes.    {I hate how this picture isn't centered, but #thestruggleisreal when you're at the park and trying distract your toddler from what you're doing!}   {How adorable is the unicorn?}   {Lauren's son at the airport!} My daughter is obsessed with keys and has to carry them on our walk to the mailbox. She has her own set of generic keys which I attached to the key clip. To say that she was thrilled was an understatement! She actually started saying the word “backpack” and went around the house collecting items to put in it.  Can we say adorable? I can’t believe my baby girl is ready for her own little backpack. Where does the time go? Does your toddler use a backpack? Have you ever paired it with a ToteSavvy Mini?

  We have all experienced (or heard stories about) toddlers picking up their plates and dumping their food out. For me, personally, it is one of those things that is just super friggin’ annoying - it’s messy, I spent time preparing food (how stupid of me), and I’m likely trying to do something else while my daughter is eating. It’s one of those things where, if I’m already irritated about something and then this happens, I just about lose my mind. Wait. I mean, I would never get short with my daughter or get flustered when she bugs the shit out of me. Luckily, there is a solution. ezpz to the rescue!     We have actually been using ezpz ever since my daughter started eating solids (so, just short of a year and a half). I was so excited to finally buy one because I had heard rave reviews! My first purchase was their Mini Happy Mat which is smaller and meant for high chairs and travel.  There are many things I love about ezpz. Where do I begin? Their mats are made from silicone, so they don’t absorb color or smells, and they’re easy to clean (totally dishwasher safe). Their silicone sticks to your counter or table, making it really difficult for your child to do the dreaded “I’m going to look you in the eye and dump my entire dinner on the floor” act that we all despise.   {Using the mat for the early days of Baby Led Weaning. It fit perfectly on her high chair!}   I have a confession to make, though.  Even though I used to be a teacher and taught reading comprehension all year, every year, my own reading comprehension is not that great. Until a few weeks ago I had no idea that the ezpz bag is meant to be saved and used when out in restaurants, enabling you to bring back your messy plate without messing up your purse. How genius is that? I was so excited to use my mat that I didn't read the packaging. No lie, I kept the bag from my Mini Mat thinking that it was a really nice bag and that I could repurpose it. I’m eye rolling myself so hard right now.      Did I mention that it fits perfectly into ToteSavvy’s side pocket? Because it does. Perfection.     Anyway. I feel very lucky in that my daughter loves food. Any kind of food. If it’s edible, she wants it. So, when I tell you that our mats have taken a beating and have been exposed to all sorts of flavors, colors, and sauces, I mean it!  Now that I know the Mini Mat can be used for eating out, I had to put it to the test. Will the bag work well? Will it survive washings? We went out to Mexican food (I wanted to go straight for the jugular and try out some messy food). My daughter had beans, guacamole, salsa, and carne asada marinade smeared on her mat. And rice. Oh, the rice. Toddlers eating rice is like Christmas tree needles: you’re never gonna get it all and you’ll continue to find it months later. Am I right, or am I right?   {Messy Mini Mat and restaurant necessities}   I put my dirty mat in the bag, took it home, and washed it. I  liked how the bag closed really easily. It was secure and no-fuss. When I washed it, it felt the same afterward. Honestly, I was pleasantly surprised! From now on, I’ll definitely be taking my Mini Mat when we go out to eat. Now, off to find its bag....