I havent used the formal program, yet love the idea. We have a 2.5 yr old + a 5 month old, so I totally feel your frustration - I can travel around Asia for 3 weeks in a single carryon, but can't go to NYC for a the weekend with the family without needing Sherpas.
I know in the NYC hotels (GH NYC & Andaz WS at least), if you request a crib, you get a set of baby items that include shampoo, powder, etc for free. I helps reduce some of the gear a bit.