Adventure and travel subscription box gifts for dads and grads

Have a dad in your life who loves travel? How about a recent graduate who is ready to start exploring the world? If you want to give something more original than cash this June, consider the following gift subscription boxes and experiential gifts that promote adventure both across the US and abroad. Travel subscription box gifts for dads and grads: Cairn subscription box:  We've reviewed … [Read more...]

Summer mosquito relief products for family travel

We love outdoor travel here at Pit Stops for Kids, but we hate mosquitos. We really, really hate them. We know DEET is terrible for us, but it's a shame, because it's the only thing that really repels them. However, when outdoors exploring, we have found a few mosquito relief products for kids that offer solutions. (We were not compensated for this post. Have I mentioned that we hate … [Read more...]

New outdoor and camping gear for families

Camping season is almost here, and it's time to gear up! I spent a week last winter at Outdoor Retailer, becoming acquainted with new camping and outdoor gear from backpacks to tents to camp kitchens. Here's what's new this year, plus a few favorites that have stood the test of time. New camping gear for families: New camping gear and outdoor gear divided into several categories below: Day … [Read more...]

Central America packing list and gear picks

Heading to Central America? You're going to need to pack smart, for both sun protection and insect protection. And of course, you'll want to be comfortable in humid and tropical weather. We just returned from Panama and Costa Rica, where we stayed relatively cool and safe from the elements by following this Central America packing list. Central America packing list: 2-3 lightweight, … [Read more...]

My oh my: Which insulated water bottle to buy?!

At each season's Outdoor Retailer show (where new products from outdoor and travel brands are showcased and introduced), one or two top travel trends always emerge. This summer, one of those trends was insulated water bottles. It started with HydroFlask, and now, it seems every water bottle company has their own version of a double-walled, vacuum-sealed, stainless steel water bottle. Which to buy … [Read more...]

Travel Gear We Use: One really good shell

With the arrival of fall, now is a great time to talk about one travel gear essential every person should have in their closet: a really good, high quality shell. A shell is not an insulated jacket, nor is it a rain jacket, though it does need to be waterproof. It goes over a base and mid-layer in winter, or can stand alone over a t-shirt or light cotton layer in summer. Shells pack down … [Read more...]

GetOutfitted camping gear review

Remember our #1 ski tip from last winter? We described how to use GetOutfitted to outfit yourself, or supplement your outfit, for winter sports. We used GetOutfitted to 'rent' a pair of ski pants for my husband, who didn't want to invest in a new pair mid-way through the ski season. Now, GetOutfitted is also renting camping gear. I am in love with this idea. Even though we personally own … [Read more...]

Travel gifts for kids: best hydration packs for all-season use

As an extension of our Travel Gear We Use series, we also feature some of our favorite travel-related gifts for kids. First up: best hydration packs for kids. I used to think that hydration packs were 'overkill' when it came to kids' outdoor gear, but I've completely changed my mind! My kids love using hydration packs during outdoor-adventure travel, and I love that they stay hydrated. Best … [Read more...]