If you’ve ever shown up to a baseball game with kids, snacks, chairs, and everything else, you know that it can feel like you’re packing for a weekend trip instead of just a day at the ballpark. After some trial and error I have found a handful of things that actually make game day easier for all of us!
Not more stuff, just having the right stuff.
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A Wagon That Actually Works
If you’re carrying chairs, bags, snacks, and kids, a wagon isn’t optional. That is too much to carry and make sure that the little ones are not running away.
Look for one that folds easily, isn’t too bulky, can handle multiple kids + gear and fits easily in YOUR car. This makes a HUGE difference on game days (or zoo trips).
I have this one: the Omni Crew 3-in-1 Stroller wagon. This one can be pushed like a stroller or pulled like a wagon which is a MAJOR game changer. I also switched to this one after having the macdaddy of wagons, Keenz XC+ 4 seater which I loved but now that the bigger kids are older I no longer need something so big.
Comfortable Folding Chairs
You’re going to be sitting for a while, and the difference between a good chair and a bad one is very noticeable after the first game.
You want to look for something that is: lightweight but sturdy (carting other kids + chairs = a lot), cupholders, and easy to fold.
There are quite a few options and you really need to choose what is best for you. The GCI Rocker is a favorite of quite a few people but it is not as portable as I would like when carting children and chairs.
The HIGH POINT SPORTS 2 Pack Portable Camping Chair comes in a pack of two and is lightweight. Very easy to take to the ballgames.
A Simple Cooler Bag
This one may be even more important than chairs (because you may have bleachers) but snacks. No one wants to be running back and forth to the snack shop constantly (not to mention the options are not the healthiest).
A cooler bag keeps snacks handy, organized and cold. We keep ours stocked with water, gatorade, quick snacks and fruit. Hands down my favorite coolers are backpack coolers. They can be easily worn without taking up precious wagon room or my hands. I really like this one as an affordable option, Sunup 35 Cans. For a more expensive option, the Stanley All Day Madeleine Backpack Soft Cooler keeps everything cold and handy.
Portable Fan (Summer Essential)
You can go different ways with this one. One of my favorites is this one Misting Stroller Fan. It has “legs” you can twist around your stroller or wagon and a small water tank to fill up that sprays while it is on. This portable fan is a little bigger and has four levels of fan.
Easy Snack Containers
I love making charcuterie board type snack trays for my kids. When I make it more fun they seem to eat healthier. You want to make sure whatever tray you choose fits in whatever cooler you choose. You can go with a larger Snackle Box for everyone or the smaller individual portions (which also work great for car snacks and lunch).
Things to ALWAYS keep in the car
There are some items that are good to keep in the car but don’t have to go with you on the field constantly.
- Lightweight Quick Dry Towels. You don’t want these taking up lots of room but towels are an essential to have in the car. This is a pack of 4 which works great with 4 kids.
- First Aid Kit. I have the Keep Going kit and yes it is more expensive than others but the organization is top notch. Just having the case exactly how it is makes it worth it.
- Change of Clothes (for everyone)
- Wipes
Game days don’t have to feel chaotic just having a few simple systems in place makes everything run a lot smoother.
It’s not about bringing everything. Just bringing what actually helps. And chances are if you forget something, someone else may have what you need!