Taking the Kids: Mom's Day gifts for traveling moms and grandmas

By Eileen Ogintz, Tribune Content Agency on May 2, 2019

Speaking of water bottles -- and traveling more sustainably -- you can't go wrong with an ultra-stashable collapsible 17-ounce one from Hydaway, which collapses to just over one inch ($25 or less.)

And for the mom that needs her coffee, tea or infused water or her powder power drinks -- wherever she is -- there's the Multi-Flaskwith offers seven drink bottles in one system, including a shakable "Agitator" and infuser ($44.95 from Amazon).

How about a portable massage roller to get out all those kinks out of your neck after a long flight or road trip? The Original Wormis small enough to stash in a carry-on and is just $25.

New traveling moms will appreciate a gift card for BabyQuip, which can deliver and set up baby gear, including toys, diapers, snacks, at 400 destinations across the country. The compact bamboo Kushies GoPillow is a breastfeeding pillow with a built-in privacy cover that doubles as a travel pillow ($49.99).

Environmentally-conscious moms will love the zero-waste options from Zoetica like the Nomad with an outer nylon bag, stainless leak-proof set for snacks and lunch, steal fork and spoon, stainless steel straw, organic napkin and a tote ($69).

Sustainability is the big buzzword in travel clothes these days -- like the wear-anywhere cardigan ($110 from Toad & CO). The company is committed to using sustainable fabrics. Onion leggings from the women-founded website epoque evolution are made from regenerated nylon fiber from recycled fishnets and carpets and are quick dry, moisture-wicking and protect from the sun -- perfect for travel.

Red Thread Collection, founded by mom Meghan Litchfield, goes one better with Made-in-America, custom-made knit pants and jackets delivered in a week -- you just scan your measurements, thanks to a data-encrypted phone selfie (free alterations and shipping. Pants are $128).

Majamas Earth makes their comfy-but-stylish tops and pants in the United States with ethically sourced fabrics that won't wrinkle. (The hi-low T-shirt is $51).

Of course, mom needs comfy shoes. Ashbury Skies’ Bendy is made in California and the company says it is a shoe "not in conflict with the people making them and one that doesn't have a large footprint on the planet." They are part sneaker, part flat with a flexible bottom and cushioned foot bed ($149.95).

Shoes in fun colors from PLAE's new packable collection are uniquely designed to compress flat -- much appreciated by moms like me who can't decide which shoes to leave behind. All feature soles inspired by bicycle treads, providing multi-directional, lightweight traction (under $100).

Time to start shopping?

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(For more Taking the Kids, visit www.takingthekids.com and also follow "taking the kids" on www.twitter.com, Facebook and Instagram where Eileen Ogintz welcomes your questions and comments.)