What to Pack (and Not Pack) When Traveling to Tampa with Kids
As parents ourselves, we know how overwhelming it can be to pack for a family trip—especially one that includes strollers, car seats, pack-n-play's, and all the extras that come with traveling with little ones.
That’s exactly why we started Our Little Suitcase. Since 2012, we’ve been helping families simplify their travel plans with baby gear rentals— initially serving the Orlando area, then shifted our focus in 2016 to the Tampa Bay area, including Tampa International Airport. After thousands of drop-offs, we’ve seen one thing over and over again: most people pack way more than they need.
If you’re planning a trip to Tampa with your kids, here’s a breakdown of what to bring—and what you can leave behind.
What You Still Need to Pack
Let’s start with what stays in your suitcase.
You’ll still want to pack:
- Diapers and wipes (we recommend packing in your carry on, bringing enough for the first day, then stocking up once you’re here.)
- Clothes for the Florida heat—light layers, sunhats, and a backup outfit for each day
- Snacks for the flight or car ride
- Any must-have comfort items like a blanket or favorite toy. The smell of home on a blanket helps if your little one has trouble sleeping.
Medication and essentials like sunscreen should also stay close. But most of the bulky stuff? We’ve got that covered.
What You Can Skip When You Rent Baby Gear in Tampa
Flying into TPA? Skip the baby-gear-hauling hustle. We’ll meet you right in the main terminal with everything you need—no wrestling car seats and pack-n-plays at baggage claim or crossing your fingers that nothing got busted in the cargo hold.
Here’s what you can leave at home:
Strollers
We carry popular models including single and double full-size strollers, all deep-cleaned and inspected between uses.
Car Seats
Don’t worry about lugging one through the airport. We offer infant seats, convertible seats, and boosters, all compliant with safety guidelines.
Cribs and Pack ’n Plays
Instead of balancing a pack-n-pay on top of your luggage (or renting a questionable one at your hotel or vacation rental), we’ll deliver a clean, sturdy sleep space with a mattress, sheet, and mattress cover.
High Chairs and Feeding Gear
Whether you're staying in a rental home, resort or hotel, we offer high chairs and dining booster seats that make mealtime easier.
Traveling Lighter = Less Stress
We’ve helped families who packed three suitcases just for their baby—then realized they only used half of it. By renting gear with us, you not only skip the baggage fees, you also skip the stress that comes with dragging oversized items through a busy airport.
And since we meet you right inside the main terminal, there’s no waiting around or figuring out where to go. You just land, meet us, and head out with everything you need.
Here's How to Make It Work
Once you know your travel dates, visit our website and reserve what you need. We'll handle the rest.
Our system will calculate your price based on your rental period. There are no hidden fees. No late-hour charges. No delivery add-ons. No holiday delivery fees.
We’ve been delivering baby equipment rentals at Tampa International Airport since 2016. Our team is local, reliable, and ready to make your family’s trip easier from the moment you arrive.
So the next time you're packing for a trip to Tampa with kids, give yourself a break. Pack the essentials. Leave the heavy gear to us.
FAQ: Baby Gear Rental in Tampa
Do you meet us inside the airport?
Yes, we meet families at Tampa International Airport in the main terminal. We also offer delivery to hotels, vacation rentals, and residences across the Tampa Bay area.
Is your gear cleaned between uses?
Always. Every stroller, car seat, crib, and pack-n-play is deep-cleaned and inspected after each rental.
Can I rent last-minute?
If we have inventory available, yes. We recommend booking ahead to make sure we have what you need when you arrive.
Do I need to pay extra for delivery or late-night arrivals?
No. Our pricing includes delivery and pickup, with no extra fees for holidays, evenings, or weekends.
What if I need help after I land?
We’re local and reachable. If something comes up, we’re a quick text or call away.