An LA Mom Without a Car? Here's How To Do It!
I can’t believe I’m writing this because I’ve always been a bit of embarrassed to admit it but I’m a mom living in LA... that doesn’t drive. Sounds like a Clueless line, but it’s the truth! Why? I grew up in Toronto – a big city with decent public transportation. And I’m honestly a very bad driver and even the thought of getting behind the wheel gives me sweaty palms... but I also blame my poor depth perception (time for lasik?!). Just ask my best friend growing up. During my short stint driving my Stepmom’s old Mercedes, I scraped the entire side of the car parking it in a tight spot underground and then proceeded to drive an entire one way street in the opposite and very illegal direction.
So how do I get around Los Angeles with a baby? Compromise! I chose to live in a part of LA that’s walking distance to everything I need. We’re a 15 min walk from four grocery stores. My co-working spot is super close between my home and The Grove. I take Lyft regularly and use the Freebird ridesharing rewards app to my advantage. I rely on friends (aka thank you so much, Callie I love you). And my husband drives (really well!). But these products help me stay light and mobile as possible. I really tried, tested, researched a lot because before Mia was here because I stressed immensely about getting around. Now I don’t. Hope this helps you out! Even if you’re a mom that does drive, these are great for the days you don’t have the car:
My car-less essentials:
WAYB Pico Travel Carseat: At only 8 lbs, I have the lightest portable car seat in the market. It’s made of Aerospace-grade aluminum and ASTROKNIT, a high performance mesh made with a wool blend for comfort and breathability. I hacked it and added a luggage strap to it so that I can throw it over my shoulder or on my stroller. (And before she hit the weight and height requirements for the Pico, I had her in the Nuna Pipa which fit perfectly in her Mixx Stroller) – see below for the install videos and FAQ about ridesharing!
Colugo Compact Stroller: With my hands full, I needed an easy and affordable one-handed stroller that I could throw on my shoulder with a strap. I have to be able to hold Mia and fold this down to throw into a rideshare car. I am obsessed with the look of mine, the blue skies print. On their site, you can buy inexpensive covers and change the look of your stroller. (I also looked at the Baby Zen Yoyo+ but that price point was more than I wanted to spend on a second stroller… though it’s very cool and functions well.)
Pura Vida Ring Sling: I always pack this in my backpack. I tried others and quickly returned them. I live in LA and I also personally run hot. This material is gorgeous and super breathable. Mia stays put and has in it for over a year now. Big fan of this mama owned company!
Skip Hop Diaper Bag: Speaking of backpacks… I wanted one that was simple and stylish. I wanted it to have a good amount of space, a cooler and the perfect amount of storage compartments. The beige color is actually gorgeous and I can’t complements on it all the time.
Colugo Fanny Pack/Stroller Organizer: When I want to be super light and can afford to skip the toys and extra gear in the backpack, I just throw this fanny pack on. It can fit her water bottle, a couple small toys, two diapers, a small pack of wipes, my phone, wallet, keys, snacks and a food pouch (my preference is Once Upon a Farm). I have the leopard print and it’s another item that catches a lot of attention. So fashion.
Vision Quest Shoes: As a mom on the go (who also had a double bunionectomy last year), I NEED well made stylish shoes. These have a sneaker-like sole and a deep cushioned insole. I love all the looks and was more than happy to go to the owners location in Silver Lake and try on a bunch of styles before picking the pair I have now. They’re gorgeous and super comfy. I can run in them. They’re legit mom style goals.
Free Bird Rideshare Points App: My newest tip and tool for moms on the go. If you use it, comment below and let me know how you like it. I’ve heard this should really pay back considering I only use Lyft. For Freebird ridesharing, you can enter my promo code p9d33 and get $10 in rideshares after taking two rides.
Lotus Travel Crib: And for a longer journey without the car, like the times we head to visit family in San Diego, I’d hop on a train and bring this portable and lightweight crib that has backpack straps.
And here are a few of the questions I get the most about often (including from Callie).
FAQ: How do you secure the car seat in the rideshare?
Answer: Here’s a great video to watch the install. There is a latch system for a safer and full install. But for a quicker ride, I used a shoulder/lap belt install which is really easy as they have a red belt path guide for you.
FAQ: When ordering a rideshare, do you make a note that you have a kid?
Answer: I don’t. I just order the car as normal and I have her strapped in the super lightweight car seat so that we’re ready to go! Install only take a couple of minutes so it’s not much of a burden on anyone.
FAQ: So many people get worried about their babies crying in ‘public places’ – what if she cries a lot?
Answer: I sit beside her in the rideshare and I have a bag full of snacks, toys and books. She’s not had a major meltdown in a rideshare so I’m grateful!!!
And if you’re a mom to be and wanting to know my quick list of my other baby essentials, check this post out https://www.milowekids.com/blogs/milowe-mag/my-baby-registry-essentials.
- Christianne
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