Ultimate Summer Baby Gear Guide: Must-Have Essentials

The days are getting longer, the air’s getting warmer, and it’s finally time to shake off that winter hibernation. Just like spring cleaning, gearing up for the sunny seasons is a rite of passage for families everywhere. Whether you're planning to soak up the sunshine at your local beach, hit the trails, or jet-set to somewhere new, having the right gear can make all the difference. That’s why we’ve put together this ultimate spring and summer gear guide—packed with must-haves to help your family make the most of every warm-weather adventure. So whether you're traveling far or keeping it close to home, we’ve got you covered. Read on for our favorite picks to keep things breezy, fun, and family-friendly all season long!

All-Terrain Transportation

The foundation of a successful summer with kiddos in tow heavily relies on your wheels. Think about where you’ll be spending your time and what kind of terrain you’ll be tackling. If your plans involve walking trails, sandy beaches, or park hopping, you’ll want an all-terrain system that can keep up.

With so many options out there, the all-terrain category can feel a little overwhelming—there are wagons, jogging strollers, and traditional four-wheel systems, all claiming all-terrain superpowers. Which leaves many parents wondering: “What exactly is an all-terrain system?”

All-terrain systems—and yes, we’re saying systems because wagons totally count—are built with performance in mind. They typically feature larger wheels with rugged tread and built-in suspension to handle bumps and uneven ground like champs. While they’re often a bit bulkier and heavier than your average stroller, the trade-off is worth it for the smooth ride, added durability, and higher weight limits. Translation: these things are built to last.

If you’re the type to spend lots of time off the beaten path and you value on-the-go convenience, it might be worth investing in two stroller options. One compact travel stroller that lives in your trunk, and one all-terrain beast for your outdoor adventures. With both in your gear lineup, your child transportation needs are fully covered.

Now, let’s dive into the best options for every age, stage, and environment.

Jogging Strollers

A jogging stroller is a three-wheeled system, typically featuring a large 12” front wheel and even bigger 16” back wheels. Most come with air-filled tires for the most cushioned ride and top-tier shock absorption, but if you’re not into the whole tire pump thing, don’t worry—foam-filled options are now available for families who prefer low-maintenance. No matter the wheel type, what all jogging strollers have in common is advanced suspension designed to keep things smooth, no matter the bumps along the way.

While a jogging stroller is an obvious choice for fitness-loving parents, it’s also a superstar for everyday use—perfect for the beach, trails, or just strolling around the neighborhood.

Our top jogging stroller picks are:

• For runners: The BOB All-Terrain Pro and Bumbleride Speed both sport air-filled wheels, superior suspension, and are built with serious runners in mind. These strollers don’t mess around.
  

• For outdoor lovers who hate flats: Check out the Veer Switchback &Jog. It’s got foam-filled wheels (bye-bye, air pump!), a reversible stroller seat—which is rare in the jogging stroller world—Its seat is designed for premium child comfort, thanks to its built-in seat dampeners.
  

• For newborns: The UPPAbaby Ridge is another low-maintenance favorite, with foam filled wheels. We especially love it for newborns because it seamlessly works with the UPPAbaby Bassinet (approved for overnight sleep!) and the ultra-light UPPAbaby Aria infant car seat.

• For two: The BOB Duallie offers the performance BOB is known for while offering room for two.

• For twins: We LOVE the Bumbleride Indie Twin for its fully flat, newborn friendly recline, extra large canopies and double infant car seat compatibility.
  
  

*For a more in-depth review of our favorite jogging strollers >>> refer to Best Jogging Strollers

Wagons

If your family is growing—or if you're just loving one-on-one exploration with your little adventurer—a wagon might just become your new best friend. These systems are bursting with utility: all-terrain capability, high weight capacity, and a cozy, safe space for your most precious cargo. But the real magic of a wagon? It’ll still be your go-to hauler for beach gear, picnic supplies, or sports equipment long after your kiddo decides walking is cooler than riding.

Veer is our top pick for families who live for the outdoors. The Veer Cruiser comes in both two-seater and four-seater versions. Both offer identical features and performance—the only difference is width, with the four-seater giving you room for two kiddos on each end.

The Veer Cruiser can be pushed, pulled, and even pushed from the side, giving you more ways to maneuver when paths get tricky. And let’s talk value—each Cruiser comes with two cup holders and a snack tray included. But where Veer really shines is in customization. You can deck your Cruiser out with color kits for the sidewalls, retractable canopies, extra storage, and a napping system or infant car seat adapters for newborn use, and yes… BEACH WHEELS.

So what are you waiting for! Choose the right size, stylize, accessorize and start living your best life with Veer.

For a full comparison of Veer Cruisers >>> refer to Veer Cruiser Review

For a full comparison of Wagons >>> refer to Best Wagons

Light Weight All-Terrain Options

Maybe you’re not into the bulk of a jogging stroller or wagon, and you'd rather keep things light without giving up all-terrain performance. If your dream is one stroller that can handle rugged paths and pop in and out of the car with ease, we’ve got two standout options that go from birth and beyond—no compromises necessary.

• The Bugaboo Fox5 Renew brings major versatility with a lightweight frame, dual 8.5” front wheels, 12” rear wheels, and advanced suspension for a smooth ride anywhere. One of its coolest features? A special “two-wheel mode” (aka sand and stair mode) that lets you trolley the stroller on its big back wheels—yes, even with your kiddo in it—perfect for stairs, sand, and other tricky terrain. It folds with one hand, includes car seat adapters, and comes with a bassinet for newborns up to 6 months, then transitions seamlessly to the included stroller seat. Add in premium, eco-friendly materials and a total weight of just 21.12 lbs, and you've got yourself a powerhouse in a sleek, lightweight package.

For more on the Bugaboo Fox5 Renew refer >>> here

• The Bumbleride Indie clocks in at just 24 lbs and rocks a 3-wheel design with 12” air-filled all-terrain tires all around. If you’re hovering on the edge of jogging stroller territory but don’t plan on logging daily runs—and want to keep things compact—the Indie might be your match. It’s newborn-ready right out of the box with a fully flat recline, offers a generous canopy for full coverage, and features eco-friendly touches, including an all-natural antimicrobial cork handlebar that feels just as good as it looks.

Travel Gear

With summer on the horizon, vacation plans are probably already in motion. And if you're traveling with little ones, travel-friendly gear is an absolute must.

Whether you're packing up the family vehicle for an epic road trip or boarding a plane with your tiny crew, having the right stroller and car seat setup is essential to making things smooth, safe, and stress-free.

There’s a lot to unpack (literally and figuratively) when it comes to traveling with kids, so much so that we’ve dedicated three articles to answering all your travel-related questions.

• To learn more about travel-friendly car seats >>> refer to our Travel Car Seat Review
  

• For travel wheels >>> refer to Best Travel Strollers
  

• For a full travel rundown >>> refer to our Ultimate Travel Guide For Parents
  
  

Summer Baby Wearing

There’s truly nothing sweeter than baby wearing—it’s the ultimate bonding move. Snuggly baby? Check. Hands free? Double check. But let’s be real: as the temps climb, all that close contact can get a little... sweaty.

If baby wearing is on your summer agenda (and we think it should be!), make sure to pick a carrier that can handle the heat. A breathable, mesh design is a total game-changer—keeping both you and your little one cool, comfy, and ready for warmer days.

Our go-to pick? The Ergobaby Omni Breeze. It supports babies from 7 to 45 lbs, offers four comfy carry positions, and its lightweight mesh fabric is made for summer strolls, travel, and everything in between. Say hello to breezy bonding, all season long!

Fun Child Friendly Transportation

Now that parents are covered, let’s talk about the older toddlers who are suddenly craving independence. What’s summer without a trike for your tot?

Our absolute fave: the Doona Liki Trike S5. This tiny but mighty trike can be pushed by parents or pedaled by kiddos with all that summer energy to burn! It features the most compact trike fold in the world—yep, it’s even overhead bin approved. The Liki Trike is ridiculously easy to fold, carry, and stow away. And the S5 model is loaded with goodies: wooden handlebar covers, a cup holder, UV-protective canopy, a storage bag, and a travel bag.

And don’t forget to add on a Doona Helmet to complete the look—and keep your little speedster safe!

Playspace

A pack-and-play or travel crib might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about summer gear, but if you plan on spending a lot of time outdoors, having a versatile play space that provides protection and fun is 100% worth considering.

We’ve picked two summer-ready options that deserve a spot on every parent’s radar:

• The UPPAbaby Remi is a traditional pack-and-play/travel crib that pulls double duty. It’s a staple in the living room for much-needed hands-off time, but it also shines outside. Roll it out onto the patio or pack it in your wagon for beach days! Why do we love it for warmer weather? Accessories! UPPAbaby offers an optional canopy that provides full UV protection, breathable mesh panels for airflow and visibility, and insect-blocking coverage. Bonus points for the machine-washable mattress, making clean-up a total breeze, and its GREENGUARD Gold Certification.
  
  

• Want to travel even lighter? Meet the Veer Basecamp—basically a premium, kid-sized pop-up tent. Weighing just 7 lbs and including a handy carry bag with a shoulder strap, this system is a beach lover’s dream. It offers full protection on all sides and even underneath, thanks to a moisture-resistant floor. The UV protected- and water-resistant canopy and zippered mesh front keep bugs and sun at bay. No need to cut those beach days short—those late afternoon moments are magic, and now your little one can nap and play in peace.
  
  

Pro tip: Have a bigger crew? Check out the Veer Family Basecamp for even more space and all the same amazing features.

Summer Lounging

Some days call for a little less. You might not need the whole pack-and-play system every time you step out the door, but if you’re headed to the park for the day or popping over to visit friends or family, you’ll definitely want a cozy spot for your newborn to stretch out—or a chill zone for your toddler.

• For Newborns: The UPPAbaby Mira is a total win. Usable from birth to age two, this sleek lounger weighs just 8 lbs and folds completely flat for easy travel. Why do we love it so much? Let's start with its GREENGUARD Gold Certification! Beyond that, It’s got breathable mesh, machine-washable fabrics (hello, spit-up and snack crumbs), and it even comes with a travel bag included. Summer goals = met.
  

• For Toddlers: Enter the Veer Switchback &Chill—a lounging MVP with next-level versatility. If you already own a Veer stroller with a Switchback Seat, just add the &Chill stand and you’re good to go. If not, you can grab the pair together. This setup weighs just 9 lbs, supports up to 50 lbs, and folds down compactly for easy transport. It’s got four recline positions, adjustable leg support, and a surprising amount of versatility. Use the Switchback Seat as a portable highchair (thanks to the built-in seat straps), attach it to Veer’s bike mount as a bike seat, or pop it onto any of Veer’s mobility systems. Seriously, have you fallen in love with Veer yet?

*For more on the versatility of the Switchback seat >>> refer to our Veer Switchback Seat Review

Essential Summer Accessories

Once you’ve got your core gear dialed in, it’s time to talk about the fun extras. Yes, accessories do add to the cost—but trust us, they’re not just cute add-ons. These little lifesavers can seriously level-up your summer strolling game and make every outing easier, smoother, and way more fun for everyone.

Here are our top picks for must-have accessories:

• Cup Holder: This one’s for you, parents. Treat yourself to a dedicated spot for your iced coffee or water bottle (we promise, you’ll thank us later) Pro tip: Stick with your stroller brand’s cup holder for the best fit.

• Stroller Organizer: These hang right on your handlebar and keep your phone, keys, wallet, and emergency pacifiers close at hand. Pro  tip: You don’t need to be brand loyal here—choose the one that suits your style and needs.

• Stroller Insect Net: For full coverage for evening summer strolls

• Stroller Fan: Do we even need to explain this one? It’s hot. Your baby is sweaty. Just get one. We love the Veer Flex Fan—it’s powerful, portable, and parent-approved.

• Waterproof Beach Bag: Because wet swimsuits, sandy snacks, and damp towels are summer staples—and this bag can handle it all.

• Sandmat: Keep your lounging space grit-free and chill with this outdoor essential.

• Portable Cooler: Don’t leave the juice boxes and chilled fruit behind! Pick a cooler that fits into your stroller’s storage basket.

  •  Veer has two great sizes the Lunch Cooler and the Day Cooler, and UPPAbaby’s Bevvy Cooler is another fab choice.

  
  

And if you're team Bugaboo (or thinking about joining), you’re in for a treat—Bugaboo really brings the summer comfort. These accessories are the cherry on top:

• Breezy Canopy: UV protection plus mesh panels for maximum airflow = the ultimate summer stroller shade. Available for all full-size Bugaboo models.
  
  

• Parasol: Clip this cutie onto any Bugaboo stroller for extra sun coverage on those blazing days.
  
  

• Dual Seat Liner: Soft, breathable, and reversible with antibacterial fabric and 3D mesh. Bonus: It’s universal! Even if you’re not using a Bugaboo stroller, you can still upgrade your seat’s comfort game.

Ready, Set, Summer!

From beach days to park hangs, road trips to backyard lounging, having the right gear makes all the difference in turning chaos into calm and meltdowns into memories. Whether you're strapping in for a hike, strolling the boardwalk, or jet-setting with your crew, this guide is your ultimate cheat sheet to a smooth, stylish, and sun-soaked season with your little ones. So pack the cooler, load up the wagon, and don’t forget the stroller fan—summer’s calling, and your family is so ready for the adventure. Let’s make it the best one yet!

Why should you trust Bambi Baby?

At Bambi Baby, our decades-long commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has established us as a trusted authority in the baby products' industry. With over 40 years of experience, we have developed a deep understanding of what parents require when choosing the perfect gear. Our expert team is dedicated to guiding you through this important decision with personalized recommendations, ensuring that the gear you pick perfectly matches your lifestyle and needs.

Still have questions? 

Bambi Baby experts are ready to connect! If you have any more questions about summer essentials you can reach us at cs@bambibaby.com or chat with us on our website. We would love to hear from you!

We would also love to see you in store! Feel free to visit any of our store locations in New York, New Jersey, or Miami if you prefer personalized assistance from one of our experts. We're here to ensure you find the perfect gear for your baby with confidence and ease.