Nevertoobusyforstyle kid-proof travel style

When we’re traveling with young kids, our things are no longer our own, right? Our suitcase is actually the kids’ suitcase with a little bit of room for mum. Our carry-on is really a carry-all for spare clothes, activities and snacks - with mummy’s stuff shoved in between. Even our clothes become blankets, pillows or Kleenex - and who knows where those hands that are using your pants as a towel have been!

Packing for such trips without sacrificing style requires some serious strategizing as well as self-restraint. Fortunately, many brands have got your back…and your feet…and your legs.

Perfection in a pant

ANATOMIE PANTS, THEORY TOP, JIBSLIFE SHOES

Anatomie is a dedicated travel fashion store who’s pants hit a hat trick of gal-on-the-go needs. 1) They look brilliant. They’re cut in a way that is both kind and kick-ass. They are awfully pricey, but I’ve had my Kate skinny cargoes in constant rotation for at least three years - from work to biz travel to trips with the family. 2) They’re made of some magical fabric that takes up next to none of your meager suitcase space and yet can keep you warm in an English winter and cool in a U.S. summer. 3) They’re washable and wrinkle free - a non-negotiable for family travel given the likelihood of assault with some suspicious substance.

Lifestyle brands that work as hard as you do

Athleta, Lululemon and Alala may make a mean yoga pant, but these lifestyle brands like also craft some ace everyday pieces - with the bonus of being stretchy, washable and forgiving of sweat. I’ve done everything from exercise to evenings out in Athleta’s paper bag waist Skyline pants, now available in fall-friendly plaid. Similarly, Alala’s washable, layerable, comfortable moto jacket can cover almost every outerwear occasion - and has traveled with me everywhere form overseas to my home office. For trips where space is really at a premium, yoga pants that double as PJs, like Athleta’s comfy tights are helpful.

One bag, so many options

ANDI, a female entrepreneur-founded bag line, takes the “oh thank goodness they thought of that” feeling to a new level. Need your hands to get your kids through the airport? ANDI bags are convertible from tote to shoulder to backpack. Need a substantial carry all but don’t want to constantly carry a giant bag? All ANDI’s come with a generously sized pouch with wrist strap. Want to be able to chuck your bag in the wash when inevitable accidents happen? The ANDI is washable. It’s also packable. And lightweight. I love mine so much I’ve even taken both my regular and small sizes on extended trips. They always earn their space.

Got your own great ideas for brands that are there for the mum on the go? Please share with a comment!