This is what we have used to potty train our daughter
Once we had the first definite signs that our 2 year (and a bit) old daughter was ready to potty train, we decided to use our Spain in Summer (and the fact that she could wear dresses and havaianas and little else) to our advantage.
We wanted to keep things simple and, most importantly, not stress her out in any way. We did not succeed in 4 days like many do – our process has taken over a month, but we got there in the end and our daughter is so proud of her achievements (high 5s all around) – and it really is a delight to see this matters to her.
As a parent, I did struggle with it all. Quite a few families said they had done it in days and had no accidents – we had accidents daily for quite a bit of time. We also went out a fair bit (after the initial days we did at home), as a reflection of our day to day life, which also brought complexity – but we are now at a stage where we feel slightly more confident (and feel ‘we got this’).
As parents, we really did this together – and for the first few weeks we did all restaurant bathroom visits and outdoor outings as a trio. We both now have the confidence to do it alone – but I personally did not at first. Potty training was harder for me than my husband and daughter – but I am glad we are done with this stage.
Without further ado, here are the bits and pieces we have purchased (or borrowed) to have a slightly better toddler potty training experience.
The Full Potty Training Kit List
Toddler Potty Training Essentials at Home
1. The Potty
We started by having a potty around the house and we went for something cheap and cheerful as everyone told us we would not be using it for long. We have used ours for 2-3 weeks, until a little someone decided she was ready for the proper big toilet.
This is similar to what we got, but ours had Baby Shark, which we got in the supermarket in Spain.
Toilet Seat
We first had the Oxo Tot (see below), but once our daughter tried the Jool toddler toilet seat (also see below), she only wanted to use that one and we have purchased a few now (with the added bonus that they can be easily removed). So whereas this was not what we envisaged, it was the solution that worked for us. Perfect for travelling.
Step Stool
We kept it simple – we can fit it under the sink and it magically disappears. We keep the wipes and the seat on a box on the first step. It doubles up as the sink step. I have used it countless times to reach things. There are many options but for now this step stool works for us and our daughter as it is the perfect height.
Potty Training Pants
These have been very good – namely on longer journeys and our first outings. They keep ‘things in’ a bit more, but are definitely not pull up nappies, so we called it a hybrid and worked for us. They’re sold in a pack of three, and one pack was all we needed.
Potty Training Essentials for on the go
Folding travel toilet seat (for restaurants, airplanes etc)
Shop Folding Travel Toilet Seat
This is our absolute star product (in the realm of toddler potty training) and we love it. It also comes with a travel bag (where we keep wipes, bags and underwear), which we then keep in her ‘going out’ bag. You can see our toddler travel essentials here.
Travel toilet seat (for car, with legs)
We’ve had two different ones over the years and rate them equally. The Oxo Travel Potty was actually our first toilet seat (which was very good), so it really is a 2-in-1 solution – the legs fold flat so they work really well for balance. It’s inexpensive in the US, but once you factor in shipping and import tax to other countries, expect somewhere around €25–30.
Since it’s not always easy to find everywhere, the Nuby Travel Potty is a great worldwide alternative and just as good – we’d have no problem recommending either.
Disposable potty liners and toilet covers
We use these disposable potty liners for all of our travel potties.
On the go, we have also used these toilet seat covers (which are individually wrapped). I have a few scattered everywhere (my handbag, beach bag, car etc).
Wipes
You will also need wipes, of course. We’ve simplified this over time and now just stick with Water Wipes for everything, at home and on the go.
Toddler Car Seat Protector Pad
This item ‘has had a lot of use’ and does what it says on the tin. We washed it as necessary and worked a treat. I can see myself keep using it as it does protect the seat and no harm in it.
Well, it turns out we needed a few more things than we expected. A lot of trial and error but I hope that you find something useful in this toddler potty training edit.
More Family Travel Guides
If you are planning your next getaway, you might also find these tested guides helpful:
→ Baby & Toddler Travel Essentials
→ Airplane Activities for Toddlers
→ Airplane Activities for 5–7 Year Olds
→ Long-Haul Flight Essentials
→ Kids’ Swimming Holiday Packing List
→ Travel Tech I Never Travel Without
Mrs. O
