Backpacks like this cute one from Amies Circle have a decidedly European feel, with cute non-famous doggies with names like Fritz and Chris’topher neatly emblazoned upon them. They’re great kids’ carry-on luggage, and because the design doesn’t scream “toddler” (the way an Elmo backpack would), even teens and tweens might like them, especially when the designs are also offered in wallets, wristlets and laptop sleeves. Oh – did we mention the price? A cool $25 for the vinyl lead-free backpack, the most expensive of the bunch – leaving more money for the actual vacation.

[via CoolMomPicks]

Our friends over at FamilyHack have a great post on this topic. Their 10 Essential Packing Rules post is on the money – some of it may seem obvious at first, but trust us on this: when you are trying to get yourself and a child or children out the door, you will forget something. Or worse, you won’t, because you’ll think you need to take everything including the refrigerator and the kitchen sink. So commit this post to memory. (Of course, printing it out and taping it to the fridge works too.) No matter where you’re going or how you’re traveling, whether your luggage is Louis Vuitton or Samsonite, these are good tips. Although we have to tell you, we’re slowly coming around to the don’t-pack-anything-and-just-buy-all- your-stuff-when-you-get-there school of traveling.

Really. As soon as the littlest one is out of diapers.

We swear.

Happy hump day!

• Over at Luxist, luxury travel handbags made from the recycled upholstery of yes, cars.
• In our recent travels, we’ve noticed some hotels being rather spare with the washcloths – 4 & 5-star hotels at that. Maybe we should get some of these Lightload Travel Towels, which are inexpensive, biodegradable, and according to blogger Jamie Rector, surprisingly efficient and durable. [via Vagablond]
• Have you ever been on a flight with your kids only to find that the in-flight entertainment is a tad too adult? We have, and it sure keeps us busy shielding their eyes and trying to entertain them. Check out this article about a bill in the works to create child-friendly zones on airplanes; read more and chime in. [via MSNBC]
• We love National Geographic Traveler’s series on experiencing cities for free: they take care to include options specifically for kids, but many of the attractions are suitable for families, depending on ages and interests. Learn more about what to do in Miami here.
• Heading to New York? NewYorkology has some thoughts on the NYC Explorer Pass, a city pass that is promoted as being the best deal to experience many of the city’s attractions. We’ve never been into these citywide passes ourselves, but if you’re contemplating this as an easier way to see the city with kids, read this post and decide for yourself.