Strolling through travel

Tag: mom-approved

  • Screen-Free Christmas Gifts for Kids Ages 5–8

    Screen-Free Christmas Gifts for Kids Ages 5–8

    Creative gifts for kids who love to build, make, pretend, and play

    If you’re looking for Christmas gifts that might inspire more play and a little less screen time, I’ve been collecting ideas for my No Screen Time, All Play Time Amazon list. With Mila at an age where she loves hands-on activities, I’m drawn to gifts that give kids something to build, create, or do together.

    These are gift ideas I’m considering, not product reviews. I haven’t personally tested every item, so check each listing for the current age guidance, dimensions, contents, and availability before ordering. Here are my favorite categories for kids around ages 5–8.

    Affiliate disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    For kids who love to build

    Travel magnetic tiles

    A small magnetic tile set can turn a table into a building space for castles, towers, and whatever else a child dreams up. The colorful travel set in my list comes with a storage tin, which makes it especially appealing for holiday trips, restaurant waits, or quiet time at home. Check the piece count and age label if you’re choosing it for a younger child or a home with little siblings.

    Shop the idea: Travel Magnetic Tiles

    Gingerbread house magnetic tiles

    For a gift that feels particularly festive, I also spotted a gingerbread house magnetic tile set. It would be fun to bring out during December for building a little holiday village, then pack away with your seasonal activities for next year.

    Shop the idea: Gingerbread house magnetic tiles

    For creative afternoons

    Glow-in-the-dark painting kit

    The wood-slice painting kit from my list looks like an easy choice for a craft-loving kid. Painting the pieces is an activity in itself, and the finished creations can become bedroom decorations or handmade gifts for family. I’d set out a washable table covering and make an afternoon of it.

    Shop the idea: Glow-in-the-dark painting kit

    A holiday craft basket

    If you’re shopping for a child who loves making things, a few smaller activities can be just as exciting as one large present. Pair a painting kit with paper, stickers, and washable supplies you already know they enjoy. It’s a simple way to make a gift feel personal without guessing which big toy will get used.

    For little chefs and pretend-play fans

    Kids’ real cooking set

    I love the idea of giving a child their own apron and age-appropriate tools, then picking a recipe to make together. The kids’ cooking set in my Amazon list includes accessories for hands-on kitchen time. Review the included tools and supervise their use according to the product directions and your child’s experience.

    Shop the idea: Kids’ cooking set

    Ice cream science maker kit

    This one combines an activity with a treat. An ice cream maker kit could be a fun gift to open when everyone has time to make a batch together over winter break. Check what ingredients and extra equipment the kit requires so you can have everything ready for your first try.

    Shop the idea: Ice cream science maker kit

    Play kitchen or play sink

    For a child who loves pretend restaurants and cooking shows, a play kitchen or counter top play sink offers room for open-ended play. These are larger gifts, so I’d check the measurements, assembly details, and your available space before choosing one. A smaller sink may be easier to fit than a full kitchen.

    Shop the ideas: Play kitchen

    My favorite way to choose

    Think about what your child already reaches for when they have free time. A builder may get more mileage out of tiles; a maker may love a craft kit; and a kid who wants to help with dinner may be thrilled with a cooking set. The best gift is the one that fits their kind of play.

    You can see all the items I’m collecting in my No Screen Time, All Play Time Amazon idea list. I’ll keep that list updated as I find more holiday gift ideas. If you’re shopping for a baby or toddler, check my separate picks for those ages rather than relying on the age range in this guide.

    Which kind of gift would your child open first: building, crafts, or cooking?

  • What I’m Packing for Salem and Maine in October: A Family Fall Weekend Packing List

    What I’m Packing for Salem and Maine in October: A Family Fall Weekend Packing List

    There is something especially exciting about planning a New England trip in October. I’m picturing colorful leaves, cozy sweaters, historic streets, coastal views and plenty of fall atmosphere—but I’m also trying to be realistic about changing weather and long days of walking.

    For our family trip, we’re planning to visit Maine first and then spend time in Salem before flying home. That means I need clothes that can work for coastal sightseeing, a road-trip day, Hocus Pocus filming locations and a full day exploring Salem with Mila.

    This is my packing plan before our first trip, rather than a recap of what I wore. I’ll update the post afterward with our actual weather, photographs and anything I wish I had packed differently.

    Affiliate disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I may earn a commission from qualifying purchases through these links at no extra cost to you.

    Before You Start Packing

    If you’re also planning an October visit, these related guides may help:

    ● Salem in October: 7 Things to Know Before You Go

    ● 6 Hocus Pocus Filming Locations to Visit in Salem, Massachusetts

    ● Shop My Fall Outfits for Salem and New England

    ● Shop My Fall Travel Outfits on LTK

    Why Packing for New England in October Takes a Little Planning

    The hardest part of packing for this trip is preparing for several types of weather without bringing an oversized suitcase. A sunny afternoon may feel comfortable while an early morning, breezy coastal stop or evening in Salem could call for another layer. Rain is another possibility, so I don’t want every outfit to depend on perfect weather.

    My goal is to pack pieces that can be layered, reworn and mixed together. I’m keeping most of the wardrobe neutral—cream, black, denim, olive and brown—with a little rust and plaid for a fall feel.

    I’ll check the National Weather Service forecast close to departure and make final adjustments then. For Salem events, closures and current visitor information, I’ll also recheck the official Salem Haunted Happenings website.

    My Carry-On Fall Capsule Wardrobe

    I don’t need a completely different outfit for every day. Instead, I’m planning a small capsule wardrobe with pieces that can create several combinations.

    Tops and Sweaters

    I’m planning to bring:

    ● One cream cable-knit sweater

    ● One striped or rust-colored sweater

    ● One fitted black turtleneck or long-sleeve top

    ● One neutral long-sleeve layering shirt

    ● One cardigan, flannel or quarter-zip pullover

    The thinner tops can be worn alone if the afternoon is mild or layered under a sweater or jacket when it gets colder. I’m avoiding several bulky sweaters because they take up too much carry-on space and are harder to layer comfortably.

    Shop sweaters and layering tops

    Bottoms

    My basic bottoms will be:

    ● One pair of comfortable straight-leg jeans

    ● One pair of black leggings

    ● One optional plaid midi skirt

    ● One pair of tights or fleece-lined tights if the forecast is cold

    Jeans work for sightseeing, restaurants and most of our planned stops. Leggings give me a comfortable option for the flight, drive and a casual day. The plaid skirt is my fun fall piece, but I’ll only pack it if the forecast makes sense.

    Shop jeans, leggings and fall skirts

    Jackets and Rain Layers

    Rather than packing one very heavy coat, I’m planning to use layers. My outerwear options include:

    ● One olive or neutral quilted jacket

    ● One lightweight waterproof rain jacket

    ● One packable puffer if colder weather is expected

    I probably won’t bring all three. I’ll choose the quilted jacket for a milder forecast or swap it for a packable puffer if temperatures look colder. A lightweight rain shell can fit over either outfit without taking up much space.

    Shop packable jackets and rain layers

    Comfortable Shoes for Maine and Salem

    Shoes may be the most important part of this packing list. We’ll likely spend a lot of time walking on sidewalks, brick paths and uneven historic areas, so this is not the trip for shoes I haven’t already tested.

    I’m limiting myself to two pairs:

    ● Comfortable walking sneakers for travel and longer sightseeing days

    ● Flat waterproof Chelsea or ankle boots for cooler or rainy days

    I love the look of heeled boots with a fall outfit, but I’d rather have a pair I can comfortably wear for hours. If space is tight, I’ll wear the bulkier pair during the flight and pack the lighter pair.

    For more walking-shoe ideas, read my guide to the most comfortable shoes for Disney. The same qualities—support, cushioning and shoes that are already broken in—matter for a busy sightseeing trip.

    Shop comfortable fall walking shoes

    Fall Accessories I’m Packing

    Accessories make a simple capsule wardrobe feel more seasonal without filling the suitcase. I’m considering:

    ● One plaid scarf

    ● One neutral or olive beanie

    ● Lightweight gloves if colder weather is expected

    ● A compact umbrella

    ● A small crossbody bag

    ● Sunglasses

    A scarf and beanie can change the look of a neutral sweater, and they’re easier to remove if the afternoon warms up. I’m choosing a crossbody that leaves my hands free while walking with Mila and taking photographs.

    Before using any day bag, I’ll check the bag rules for our reserved attractions.

    Shop fall accessories and travel bags

    What I’m Packing in My Day Bag

    I want our daytime bag to be useful without becoming heavy. My current list includes:

    ● Portable phone charger and charging cable

    ● Wallet and identification

    ● Reservation confirmations saved on my phone

    ● Compact umbrella or packable rain layer

    ● Water bottle, where permitted

    ● A few kid-friendly snacks, where permitted

    ● Hand wipes and sanitizer

    ● Tissues

    ● Lip balm and a small hand lotion

    ● Bandages and blister protection

    ● A foldable reusable shopping bag

    ● A small plastic bag for wet items

    I’ll download or screenshot important directions and reservations before leaving the hotel so I’m not depending entirely on cell service or a fully charged battery.

    What I’m Packing for Mila

    Packing for a child means having a little more flexibility. I’m planning comfortable pieces that can handle walking, snack breaks and changing temperatures.

    For Mila, I’m packing:

    ● Comfortable sneakers she has already worn

    ● Two pairs of leggings or soft pants

    ● Long-sleeve tops

    ● Cozy sweatshirts or sweaters

    ● A lightweight jacket

    ● A rain layer

    ● Extra socks

    ● Pajamas

    ● A warm hat if needed

    ● One complete change of clothes in our day bag

    I’ll also bring a small activity for travel time and any familiar snack that makes a long day easier. Her cutest outfit won’t be useful if she is uncomfortable, so shoes and layers come first.

    Four Easy Outfit Formulas for the Trip

    1. Travel Day

    Black leggings, a neutral long-sleeve shirt, a cardigan or quarter-zip and comfortable sneakers. I can add the quilted jacket after landing if needed.

    2. Maine Sightseeing

    A striped sweater, straight-leg jeans, waterproof ankle boots and a crossbody bag. Add the quilted jacket and scarf for a breezy coastal stop.

    3. Salem and Hocus Pocus Locations

    A fitted black turtleneck, plaid midi skirt, tights and comfortable black ankle boots. If the skirt doesn’t suit the forecast, I can switch to jeans without changing the rest of the outfit.

    4. Chilly or Rainy Day

    A cream sweater, black leggings, rain jacket or packable puffer, waterproof boots and a beanie.

    These formulas use the same small group of pieces, which makes it easier to pack light while still having outfits that feel different in photographs.

    How I’m Fitting Everything Into a Carry-On

    Wear the Bulkiest Pieces

    I’ll wear my largest shoes and jacket on the plane instead of using valuable suitcase space.

    Use One Color Palette

    Cream, black, denim, olive, rust and brown all work together. Every top should coordinate with at least two bottoms.

    Pack Only Two Pairs of Shoes

    Shoes quickly take over a carry-on. One walking pair and one weather-friendly pair should cover the trip.

    Use Packing Cubes

    I’ll separate adult clothing, Mila’s clothes and smaller accessories so we can find what we need without unpacking everything.

    Rewear Outer Layers

    Jackets, jeans, scarves and sweaters can usually be worn more than once during a short trip. I’ll pack enough base layers and undergarments without duplicating every complete outfit.

    Leave a Little Extra Space

    I don’t want to begin the trip with an overfilled bag. Leaving a little room makes repacking easier and gives us space for a small souvenir.

    Complete Salem and Maine Fall Packing Checklist

    Clothing

    One cardigan, flannel or quarter-zip

    One pair of jeans

    One pair of leggings

    Optional skirt and tights

    One quilted jacket or packable puffer

    One lightweight rain layer

    Pajamas

    Undergarments

    Comfortable socks

    Shoes and Accessories

    Walking sneakers

    Waterproof ankle boots

    Scarf

    Beanie

    Optional gloves

    Crossbody bag

    Sunglasses

    Compact umbrella

    Travel Essentials

    Identification and payment cards

    Reservation details

    Phone and charging cable

    Portable charger

    Toiletries and medications

    Packing cubes

    Reusable water bottle

    Reusable shopping bag

    Snacks

    Blister care and small first-aid items

    Mila’s Essentials

    Comfortable outfits and layers

    Walking shoes

    Jacket and rain layer

    Extra socks

    Pajamas

    Change of clothes for the day bag

    Snacks and travel activity

    Any daily medication or comfort item

    What I’m Leaving at Home

    To keep the suitcase manageable, I’m skipping:

    ● Shoes that haven’t been broken in

    ● Several heavy sweaters

    ● More than one dressy outfit

    ● A large handbag

    ● Clothing that only works with one specific outfit

    ● Too many “just in case” pieces

    If the forecast changes, I’d rather make one thoughtful substitution than keep adding items.

    Final Thoughts on Packing for Salem and Maine in October

    My goal is to feel comfortable, prepared and still enjoy the fun of dressing for New England in the fall. A small capsule wardrobe, two dependable pairs of shoes and a few weather-ready accessories should give me enough options without overpacking.

    Because this is our first trip, I’ll update this guide afterward with what we actually wore, what the weather was like and anything I would change next time.

    Planning your own trip? Save this packing list for later, browse my Fall Outfits for Salem and New England, and read my guide to seven things to know before visiting Salem in October.

  • 10 Rapunzel Disneybound Outfits I’d Actually Wear to Disney

    10 Rapunzel Disneybound Outfits I’d Actually Wear to Disney

    Rapunzel is one of my favorite characters to Disneybound because her color palette is so easy to wear in real life. Lavender, blush pink, soft florals, gold accessories, and even a little touch of green can create a Rapunzel-inspired outfit without feeling like you’re wearing a costume.

    And if you’ve been following my Disney outfit posts, you know my biggest rule: the outfit has to be cute, but I also need to be able to actually wear it for a real Disney day.

    That means comfortable shoes, breathable fabrics, practical bags, and outfits that can survive Florida heat, long lines, snacks, rides, and plenty of walking.

    Whether you’re planning a day at Magic Kingdom, a Disney Cruise, a character meal, or just want a subtle princess-inspired look, here are 10 Rapunzel Disneybound outfits I’d actually wear.

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

    1. The Classic Rapunzel Disneybound Outfit

    When I think of a classic Rapunzel Disneybound, I immediately think of a pretty lavender dress with subtle pink and floral accessories.

    For this look, I would start with a comfortable lavender athletic dress or casual sundress. Add white sneakers, a small crossbody bag, and delicate floral accessories.

    Comfortable and can be used for everyday wear

    The outfit formula:

    This is probably the easiest Rapunzel outfit to put together because the purple dress does most of the work.

    For a park day, I would personally choose an athletic-style dress with built-in shorts or wear lightweight shorts underneath a casual dress. I want to be able to get on rides, chase after my daughter, and walk around all day without constantly adjusting my outfit.

    2. Hot Weather Rapunzel Disneybound

    Florida heat can completely change my opinion of an outfit.

    Something might look adorable when I’m getting ready in the hotel room, but if I’m uncomfortable an hour after entering the park, it’s not worth it.

    Summer Fit to keep you Cool & Comfy

    For a hot-weather Rapunzel outfit, I would choose lightweight pieces:

    This is a much more subtle Disneybound, but the purple and pink combination still gives Rapunzel energy.

    I especially like this kind of outfit for summer because every piece has a purpose. Nothing is heavy or overly complicated, and the athletic fabrics are much more comfortable when temperatures rise.

    3. Casual Rapunzel Park Outfit

    You don’t need a dress to create a cute Rapunzel-inspired look.

    For a casual park outfit, I love the idea of pairing lavender shorts with a soft pink T-shirt or fitted tank.

    Add comfortable sneakers and a practical crossbody or belt bag.

    My outfit formula would be:

    This is one of those outfits that doesn’t immediately scream princess outfit, which is exactly why I like it.

    Someone who loves Rapunzel will recognize the colors and little details, but it still feels like a normal, wearable Disney outfit.

    4. Mom-Friendly Rapunzel Disneybound

    As a mom, my Disney outfits have to pass a slightly different test.

    Can I carry snacks? Can I hold everything my daughter suddenly decides she doesn’t want to carry? Can I comfortably sit on the ground for a parade if necessary?

    For this outfit, I would build the entire look around comfort.

    Try:

    I love an athletic skort for Disney because you get the cute look of a skirt with the practicality of shorts.

    Add a small crossbody bag that can hold your phone, cards, sunscreen, and a few essentials, and you’re ready for a full park day.

    5. Rapunzel Tennis Dress Outfit

    The tennis dress trend works perfectly for Disneybound outfits.

    For Rapunzel, I would choose a lavender or soft purple athletic dress and let the accessories create the rest of the look.

    Pair it with:

    This is one of my favorite ways to Disneybound because it requires very little outfit planning.

    One dress, a comfortable pair of shoes, and a few accessories can create the entire look.

    It’s also easy to layer. If you’re visiting during cooler weather, add a cropped cardigan or lightweight zip-up jacket.

    6. Rapunzel-Inspired Midi Dress

    Not every Disneybound outfit needs to be designed for walking around a theme park all day.

    A purple or lavender midi dress would be perfect for a Disney resort dinner, character dining, Disney Springs, or a Disney Cruise dinner.

    I would pair it with:

    This is a more grown-up interpretation of Rapunzel’s look.

    I would keep the accessories subtle and let the colors tell the story.

    This would also be a beautiful outfit for family photos.

    7. Cooler Weather Rapunzel Disneybound

    Yes, Florida does occasionally get chilly!

    For cooler park days, I would create a cozy Rapunzel outfit using lavender and blush pink layers.

    Try:

    Another option would be lavender leggings with a cream sweatshirt and purple accessories.

    I like this approach because you don’t need every piece of the outfit to be purple. Using a neutral base and adding a few recognizable colors can make the outfit feel much more wearable.

    8. Subtle Rapunzel Disneybound

    This one is for anyone who wants princess inspiration without wearing a full purple outfit.

    Start with a neutral base and add small Rapunzel-inspired details.

    For example:

    The sun symbol is such an easy way to add a little Rapunzel reference without making the outfit feel overly themed.

    I also love floral accessories for this look because they reference Rapunzel’s long, flower-covered braid in a subtle way.

    9. Rapunzel Disney Cruise Outfit

    A Disney Cruise is one of my favorite places to wear Disney-inspired outfits because there are so many opportunities to dress for different themes.

    For a Rapunzel-inspired cruise outfit, I would choose something breezy and easy.

    My outfit formula:

    This would work for dinner, photos around the ship, or an evening show.

    For a casual daytime cruise look, swap the sundress for lavender shorts and a white or blush tank.

    The goal is to keep the Rapunzel color palette while making the outfit feel appropriate for being on a cruise.

    10. Rapunzel Mommy-and-Me Outfit Idea

    I love coordinating outfits with my daughter, but I don’t think we always need to wear identical outfits.

    For a Rapunzel-inspired mommy-and-me look, I would coordinate the colors instead.

    For Mom:

    For Kids:

    The outfits look coordinated in photos without being exact copies of each other.

    This is especially cute for character dining, a Magic Kingdom day, or a Disney Cruise.

    How to Create a Rapunzel Disneybound Without Buying an Entire New Outfit

    Before buying anything, I always recommend looking at what you already own.

    You might already have:

    Start with one or two Rapunzel colors and build from there.

    The easiest formula is:

    Purple + pink + floral detail + gold accessory

    You don’t need every single element. Even two or three can create the overall inspiration.

    The Best Shoes for a Rapunzel Disneybound

    I will always choose comfortable shoes over shoes that perfectly match an outfit.

    For a full Disney park day, my first choice would be a pair of supportive sneakers that I already know I can comfortably walk in.

    White, cream, or light neutral sneakers work beautifully with Rapunzel-inspired colors.

    For dinner, resort hopping, or a Disney Cruise evening, I would choose comfortable flat sandals.

    My rule is simple: never test brand-new shoes on a full Disney park day.

    An adorable outfit is much less fun when your feet hurt before lunch.

    My Favorite Rapunzel Disneybound Outfit

    If I were choosing one of these outfits for my next Disney trip, I would pick the lavender athletic dress outfit.

    It’s simple, comfortable, and easy to style.

    I would wear a lavender athletic dress with comfortable white sneakers, a small neutral or pink crossbody bag, delicate gold jewelry, and a floral hair accessory.

    It’s enough to clearly give Rapunzel inspiration while still being an outfit I’d genuinely wear all day.

    Final Thoughts

    Rapunzel is one of the easiest princesses to use for Disneybound inspiration because her colors work so well with everyday clothing.

    You can go obvious with a lavender dress and floral accessories or keep things subtle with neutral clothing and small purple, pink, and gold details.

    For me, the best Disneybound outfits are always the ones that feel like your normal style with a little Disney inspiration added in.

    Whether you’re planning a hot summer park day, a Disney Cruise, dinner at a resort, or a mommy-and-me look, there are so many ways to create a Rapunzel-inspired outfit that is both cute and comfortable.

    And that’s always my goal: an outfit I love in photos but can also actually enjoy wearing all day.