travel essentials 8 month old

What to Pack When Traveling With Baby

Fact-checking standards, latest update:, when can you travel with your baby, read this next, what to pack for your baby in a carry-on bag, what to pack in your baby's suitcase.

Happy travels!

What to Expect the First Year , 3rd edition, Heidi Murkoff. WhatToExpect.com, Flying With a Baby? Here's What to Know Before You Go , September 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Do Babies Need Passports? , October 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Best Travel Toys for Babies , February 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Baby Products You Can Take on a Plane , September 2020. American Academy of Pediatrics, Flying with Baby: Parent FAQs , November 2019. American Academy of Pediatrics, Is It Safe for Families to Travel Now? , August 2021. American Academy of Pediatrics, Travel Safety Tips , August 2018. American Academy of Pediatrics, Is It Safe for My Baby to Travel in a Car Seat a Few Hours at a Time? , August 2021. Transportation Security Administration, Traveling with Children . Federal Aviation Administration, Flying with Children , March 2021. Mayo Clinic, Is Air Travel Safe for an Infant? , October 2019.

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The Ultimate Packing List for Baby Travel (+printable checklist!)

Over the years, i’ve written a lot about how to travel with a baby..

Between leaping head first into baby travel when Evelyn was 5 weeks old, to taking our special needs baby Sophie on several trips around the country, we’ve become pretty well-acquainted with the world of travel with a baby by now.

Truthfully, traveling with a baby is not all that bad. But it does require a ton of preparation for all the things that you might possibly need.

We’ve covered what to pack in your carry on before, along with everything you need to know before flying with a baby . I’ve even shared our favorite baby travel gear and travel-friendly toys .

But one thing I haven’t covered? A comprehensive, everything-you-must-pack guide to make the whole trip with baby go extra smoothly!

We were reminded of just how much stuff one little human can require as we prepared for our month-long adventure around Southern California . Our packing list felt endless . And I can say pretty confidently that we left nothing behind.

So let me spare you the stress of wondering “what am I forgetting” ?

Read on for our ultimate baby packing list of EVERYTHING you might ever need when traveling with a baby! (+a free printable checklist at the bottom of this post!)

Pin it for later:.

Baby Packing List | Travel Gear

First things first, the big stuff !

You may not need all of these items for every trip, but for the most part, we bring this same travel-friendly baby gear just about everywhere we go:

Baby Carrier | A baby carrier is a must, even if it’s nothing more than an efficient way to move through the airport. I know not all kiddos love the carrier, but we find that having both a carrier and stroller available when we travel with Sophie is essential. You just never know when you’ll run into a place with lots of stairs or uneven sidwalks, so it’s good to have a back up that will keep you moving freely. We started out with the ErgoBaby , but made the switch to the more lightweight and compact MiaMily toddler carrier with Infant Insert and absolutely love it. Still on the fence? Read up and compare all of our favorite carriers for babies and toddlers here .
Stroller | Even though our carrier is indispensable, we like to have options. For newborns, I adore the Doona Car Seat & Stroller 2-in-1 . I only wish this had been around when our girls were babies because it takes so much hassle out of traveling with a baby! For us personally, we love and recommend the lightweight and carry-on compliant Babyzen YOYO+ , which is great for older babies who can sit up on their own (don’t forget the puchase a compatible backpack carry bag – so worth it)! For newborns you can add on the bassinet pack onto the YOYO+, just keep in mind you will have to gate check the stroller with this add-on.
Car Seat | Depending on where you’re going, you may or may not want to bring the car seat. If you will need one, the Maxi Cosi and Nuna Pipa are two that can adapt to a YOYO+ without the bassinet add-on (just get some adapters like these , and you’re good to go!). For older babies, a popular choice is the Cosco Scenera Next , which is super lightweight at just 10 pounds. I recommend getting a car seat bag to keep it clean while flying, and if you’re worried about it getting banged up by luggage handlers, you can upgrade to a padded car seat bag .
Travel Crib | We’ve always brought our own travel crib, mostly because I want our kids to feel the comfort of a familiar sleeping environment, no matter where we are. We’ve been especially happy with our Baby Bjorn Travel Crib , which has held up with our travels all over the country these past 6 years. For infants, you can get away with a more compact option, like this Travel Pod Bassinet . And if you’re in a pinch, most family-friendly hotels will offer cribs for free, or you can rent one from a baby gear rental company, like BabyQuip . Read up on all our favorite baby travel cribs here .

Pro Tip: Don’t want the stress of traveling with all your gear? Use BabyQuip and get bulky items like cribs, strollers, high chairs, car seats and so much more delivered straight to your hotel or rental!

Baby Packing List | Clothes

Sure, babies require a lot of stuff to pack, but the one area where they don’t take up much space in the suitcase: clothes!

I use these packing cubes for everyone in the family and almost everything for baby can fit into just one:

Pants & Leggings | Usually 2-3 pairs. In colder months I’ll skip the rompers and dresses, and add more leggings, pants and sweaters.
Shirts & Onesies | Usually 2-3 tops, adding 2-3 more in winter months.
Dresses or Rompers | Usually 2-3 for warmer destinations, because they’re so easy to pack and don’t require mixing and matching tops and bottoms.
Socks | 2-3 pairs , even in the summer months in case we end up somewhere chilly.
Booties or Shoes | I’ve recently become obsessed with little baby shoes, but I try to stick to one simple pair of baby moccasins that match everything for travel, like these from BirdRock Baby .
Hat | A must, no matter where you’re traveling, whether a sun hat for the spring and winter, or a fuzzy hat for the fall and winter.
Swimsuit | Only if necessary, of course. These boy and girl options from Rufflebutts are our favorites.
Pajamas | I stick to just 2 pairs of footie pajamas (plus a 3rd pair worn on our travel day).

This might not seem like a lot of clothes, but if we’re traveling for more than 5 days, we’ll wash and rewear items to keep our packing light. This means making sure we have access to laundry facilities while we travel (whether it be an Airbnb with a washing machine, hotel with a laundry room, or a wash and fold laundry service nearby).

Baby Packing List | Nursing & Feeding

Things change quickly with a baby, and depending on their age and feeding habits, you may need any of the following:

Bottles | We’ve always traveled with just two bottles and been fine. Tommee Tippee and Dr. Brown’s are our favorites.
Drying Rack | I love our OXO travel drying rack ( similar option here ); it’s come in handy more times than I can count! We also have a larger version of this Boon travel drying rack at home, and would highly recommend either. It’s truly one of the items you don’t think you need until you’re balancing wet bottles around a hotel sink.
Dish Soap | Never fails, I always forget dish soap! If you’re staying in an Airbnb, there’s no need to bring your own (unless you’re particular about what you use). But if you’re staying in a hotel, for sure pack this little travel-size one for washing bottles!
Nursing Cover | There’s a good chance you’ll have little privacy for nursing during travels, and at the very least a nursing cover can help with getting little ones to fall asleep in busy places. Or for a lighter solution, a muslin swaddle is great and doubles as a blankie.
Breast Pump & Supplies | It’s a pain to lug around for sure, but if you’re going to need it, consider investing in a few pieces to make pumping on-the-go easier: a special backpack and battery pack . (and good news, the airline won’t count this against your carry on luggage allowance)
Cooler Bag | We love a little cooler bag with ultra-thin ice packs , or if you need room for more bottles, this Medela cooler bag is a great option too.
Formula Dispenser | For babies on a formula-fed diet, this little guy makes mixing bottles on the go so much easier .
Tall Insulated Mug | This simple, yet useful item is a must for an on-the-go bottle warmer. Just ask your airport coffee shop to fill it with piping hot water after you get through security, and then dip your bottle in to warm milk up in no time!
Wipe-Clean Bib | Once baby is into solids, a wipe-and-reuse bib is awesome for on-the-go feedings.
Travel Spoon | Our favorite is still this one that comes with a little case for easy storage, or try these squeeze pouch food adapter spoons .
Snack Catcher | This travel container is perfect for little cereals you don’t want spilled all over.
Squeeze Pouch Baby Food | If you’re feeding while traveling, skip the mess and squeeze it from pouch form onto the spoon!
Sippy Cup | We’ve tried many of the years, and these classic sippy cups from Munchkin or these sippy cups with weighted straws are both at the top of our list of favorites.
Bottles Wipes | It’s tough to clean bottles, pacifiers, and spoons on-the-go, but these bottle wipes are a safe and easy way to do it when you don’t have a sink handy.
Travel High Chair | If you have the space for it, I can’t recommend this travel high chair enough, which folds down flat for packing. You could also opt for a cloth seat harness for an even lighter, more compact option.

Baby Packing List | Health & Bath

Diapers | My rule of thumb is to pack a maximum of 8 diapers in the baby backpack and then buy more as soon as we arrive.
Travel Wipes Case | These no-frills travel wipes cases have become my favorite over the years. Like diapers, I load one up with as many as I can fit and then buy more once we’ve arrived in our destination.
Dirty Diaper Baggies | These dirty diaper baggies have also come in handy more times than I can count.
Baby First Aid Kit | We keep a super simple kit that includes only the basics, like travel-size diaper rash cream , infant pain reliever , a few bandages , a small thermometer , nail clipper , skin cream , etc. For all those other ‘what if’s’, we’ll buy it at our destination if needed.
Prescription Medicines | Keep liquids in their original containers to avoid any issues with TSA, and for anything needing kept cold, we use our bottle cooler bag with ultra-thin ice packs .
Sunscreen | These pocket sunscreen sticks are my absolute favorite because they’re easy to apply and take up so much less space.
Mosquito Repellent | This natural one is our favorite. No chemicals or stink!
Sanitizing Wipes | Especially good for wiping down a dirty airplane seat. I always keep a small travel-size pack in the diaper backpack.
Hand Sanitizer | For obvious reasons, I always keep a travel-size hand sanitize r clipped to the backpack.
Baby Shampoo & Body Wash | This 2-in-1 combo is our favorite, filled in a small GoToob+ travel container .
Brush or Comb | Of course.
Inflatable Travel Tub | Finally, this handy inflatable bath tub is an absolute favorite of ours and has gotten way more use than I ever thought it would. It’s definitely worth the purchase if you don’t have access to a tub or your baby is not sitting up on their own yet.

Read Next: Everything You Need to Know Before Traveling with a Baby

Baby Packing List | Play & Sleep

Play Mat | We’ve stayed in lots of Airbnbs with hardwood floors and little comfortable space for baby to play. I so wish this fold-and-go baby gym was around when my kids were little (or this similar travel-friendly option ).
Small Toys | I try to keep toys to a minimum, mostly because when you’re traveling, you’re out and about a lot anyway. Sassy brand makes a ton of my favorite simple baby toys, and I keep a little collection in one of these mesh storage bags for easy packing.
Pacifiers & Pacifier Clips | We find these pacifiers with these clips to work great!
Swaddle Blankets | Another must-pack item, Aden & Anais makes our favorite muslin swaddle blankets that double as a nursing cover or burp rag too.
Crib Sheet | Whether you bring your own travel crib or use the hotels, we like to have our own crib sheet. This crib sheet that’s designed specifically for portable cribs has traveled with us again and again.
White Noise Machine | We love our Shusher and I swear it has made all the difference in helping our babies fall asleep in new places. This portable sound machine is another favorite among traveling moms.
Favorite Blankie | Even though it can be a bit of a pain to travel with, having a soft baby blanket sure is nice for wrapping baby up on a cold airplane or having a familiar comfort from home.

FreshlyPicked Diaper Backpack | Passport Cover | Reusable Storage Bags | Dropper Stopper Tether (similar options here and here )

Baby Packing List | Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Diaper Backpack | A good diaper bag is essential, and I can’t recommend going with a backpack style enough! Having your hands free, especially in airports, is a necessity, and this FreshlyPicked diaper backpack has travelled with us all over the world!
Birth Certificate or Passport | Did you know some airlines require you to show a birth certificate for your lap baby? To be safe, I always carry a copy in my wallet. And if you’re planning on traveling internationally, be sure to start the process for your baby’s passport as soon as possible.
Dropper Stopper Baby Tether | From toys, to bottles, to snack cups, this is our favorite item for keeping all of our baby essentials from hitting the dirty airplane floor (similar options here and here )
Plastic Storage Bags | Whether one-time use, or an eco-friendly reusable , we’re always finding a need for the modest plastic storage bag. Whether for dirty clothes from a blow out incident, saving leftover snacks, keeping trinkets and keepsakes together, we’re always finding a new use for these.

Free Printable Checklist: Baby Travel Packing List!

It doesn’t matter how many times we’ve traveled with a baby, I’m always bound to forget something!

After many missed essentials, I finally created our own baby travel packing list ! We use it for every trip, and now you can use for yourself!

get it here!

Thanks for being a subscriber!

PS. You can also find this and all of our printable family travel planning tools exclusively for subscribers in our free resource library .

What are your must-have packing list items when traveling with baby?

Wife and mom to two sassy little girls, Laura has been sharing her family's travels here on Our Next Adventure since 2016! Though lots has changed in both our family and the world of travel over the years, one thing remains: we love exploring new places together!

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30 Baby Travel Essentials in 2023 (and Affordable Alternatives)

03/12/2023 by Kristin Addis 2 Comments

As someone who traveled to over 60 countries before giving birth, I knew that I didn’t want my adventures to end just because I had a baby. Before traveling with him, I almost gave into the persistent belief that traveling with a baby has to be difficult and that it has to involve tons of checked baggage.

Neither has to be the case. Over 10 trips — two of them international — and 24 flights with my now 8-month-old, these are the essentials I bring when we travel with our baby.

Table of Contents

1) LOTS of Diapers

This one will seem obvious, but don’t underestimate how many diapers you will need! We were once on what was supposed to be a one-hour flight that got rerouted mid-air and turned into three flights and most of the day. Airports don’t always have diapers to purchase. We always WAY overpack the amount of diapers we’ll need in our carry on, and I’m glad we do for moments like this.

I’ve tried many brands, but one stands out for being the most absorbent. I have had leaks with all the others – Pampers, Dyper, Honest, but never with Coterie . They truly are worth it.

On our most recent trip to Japan, we packed enough diapers for a week and bought the remainder in Japan. They weren’t as good as what we brought from home, but it helped save much-needed space.

2) A Comfortable Baby Carrier

Although a travel stroller can be a great idea, we rarely travel with one, especially if we need to pack light.

Garrett and I almost always babywear instead – through the airport, on the flight, walking around, on public transportation, and just about everywhere we need to go. Our baby sleeps well like this, and it’s just so much easier for any terrain we might encounter.

In the early days, I loved the soft Solly Baby Wrap , then we graduated to the Artipoppe and Ergobaby carriers, and as he gets bigger, it’s been more important to go for something that wears more like a hiking backpack .

3) Portable Changing Pad

With all of the changing tables that our portable pad has seen, I’m glad that we had it along to act as a barrier between Felix and the, sometimes nasty, tables we’ve had to change him on.

Or benches, forest floors, beds, and so on. This is the portable pad we use . It’s easy to wash and fold up.

4) Comfortable Diaper Bag Backpack

First Name:

I initially thought that I was going to want a cute diaper bag, and while that would have been nice, when it came down to it, functionality mattered more than anything else. Go for the biggest one within your budget that also has stroller clips.

Trust me, you want it to be large if it’s traveling with you in order to fit the loads of diapers, extra bottles (if using), washing station, extra wipes, extra onesies, and travel toys.

5) Portable bottle washing station and soap

I always joke this is the best $17 I’ve spent, but honestly, this bottle washing station has come in SO handy. From airport bathrooms to airplane bathrooms, Airbnbs, hotels, and friend’s houses, this has given us a clean surface, dedicated bottle brushes, and a drying rack anywhere we go. We even use this as his dedicated bottle washing station at home!

I also recommend bringing your own unscented soap in a travel size container. I almost always end up only finding antibacterial (not great for ingesting) or heavily scented soaps when we travel and have been very glad to have our own unscented, plant-based dish soap.

6) Sanitizing Bags

I’m in love with these steam sanitizing bags too. They’re cheap, multi-use, pack down tiny, and steam clean pump parts, bottles, binkies, and silicone teethers. One of my Instagram followers told me they even use these in the NICU for sanitizing! As long as you have a microwave available, which we have in 90% of the places we’ve stayed, you just pour in 60ml of water, seal, microwave for 90 seconds, and dump onto a clean surface. Voila! It’s all sanitized in just a few minutes.

7) Portable breast pumps

These saved my pumping journey. Although I never planned to exclusive pump, that’s how things ended up, and I’m so glad to have been able to maintain on the road with these! Whether in a moving car (sometimes while driving), airplane, lounge, or train, I’ve pumped on the go with ease with my pumps. I tried both the Elvie and Willow Go and like them both. Even if you’re not an exclusive pumper, if you pump at all, these are so much easier for travel!

8) Portable Bassinet

We want to create a safe sleep environment on the road. Sometimes the places we stay have cribs available, but most of the time we have needed to bring our own.

At first, we loved this foldable bassinet . It packed down small and we could pack diapers and clothes inside. Now that he’s too big for it, I use the Guava Lotus bassinet . It’s considerably bigger, but it has worked great on road trips along with the Slumberpod .

9) White Noise

Our baby sleeps better with white noise, and we do too! Having our white noise machine has saved us when we got put in a room with a bar downstairs, when there were lawn guys outside in the early morning, and from general hotel noises.

I learned from experience that the fancy ones that connect to Wifi are better kept at home. We have the most basic Hatch Mini sound machine and it works great. Alternatively, you can play Spotify 10-hour white noise podcasts from your phone.

10) Portable Baby Monitor

I should have known when our friend gifted us his Owlet due to the constant connectivity issues that we might have the same problem. Especially on the road with hotel WiFi or anything that isn’t 2.5ghz (WHY are all baby items like this?!) For the price, I really like the analog one we bought for $35 for trips.

It works up to 1000 feet, has night vision, and allows us to put Felix in his own room, or for us to let him sleep downstairs while we enjoy the pool, hot tub, etc. It’s honestly just as good as the Owlet and costs a fraction of the price.

11) Portable Highchair

If your baby is eating solids, take it from me, it’s much easier to have them in a high chair than feeding on your lap, although sometimes we do the bathtub and just hose him off after.

I like the Ingesina Fast Table chair , though this one is a great alternative.

12) Nail File

Do not forget the nail file! I swear I’m filing F’s nails every other day, both at home and on the road.

13) Bottles or spoons appropriate for age

If your baby is on solids, be sure to bring the spoons and bibs you use at home. Since we do baby-led weaning, we use these spoons that he can self-feed with, along with this full-body bib.

Since BLW can be very messy, I usually order a side of avocado or fruit for him when we’re in a restaurant and hand feed him pieces of it, then do a full meal when we’re back at the room. It’s worked great so far!

14) Baby food, formula, or cooking supplies

Depending on where you go, you may or may not need to bring the enough baby food and/or formula with you for the entire trip.

I have seen baby purée in small towns in Mexico as well as drug stores in Japan, albeit more limited than I might find at home. Since we do BLW, we usually buy fruit and veggies at grocery stores to share with Felix. For our most recent road trip, we had space in the car for me to bring his Beaba babycook , which allowed me to steam veggies for him in the hotel room. I was glad to have it with us, though it’s less practical for flying.

15) Medications, nasal aspirator, and thermometer

It sucks when little ones get sick on the road, but it happens. We always have his thermometer, nasal aspirator, and infant Genexa with us when we travel. It’s so much easier than having to look for these things on the road.

16) Portable toys

Some people think babies don’t need toys, but I disagree! Having a toy along has saved dinnertime for us parents more than once, and they keep him stimulated and entertained. 90% of the toys that we have for Felix are from the Lovevery Montessori-inspired play kits and that’s what we bring with us when we travel. We’re big fans. Read my Lovevery review here.

17) Baby-safe sunscreen

Once your baby is 6 months or older, baby-safe sunscreen is great to have on-hand. I like this mineral one.

18) Baby-safe insect repellant

I honestly hate bug repellant, but I hate mosquito bites more! When possible, I try to keep Felix in rooms with screens to keep insects out, and keep a mosquito net over his crib, but when we can’t avoid exposure, these wipes come in handy.

19) More baby clothes than you think you’ll need!

Garrett and I joke that we end up wearing the same outfit a bunch of times, but babies tend to need to change more often whether it’s drool, spit up, blow-outs, you get the idea. I usually have more than one per day for him, which is easy to do since they pack up small.

Our baby has extremely sensitive skin and basically lives in Kyte Baby . We use a North Face onesie for cold weather with the Kyte baby underneath. It helps him regulate body temperature better and keeps his skin from reacting. I also zip him up in Seraphine babywearing jackets . I love them so much I have three!

20) Umbrella for shade or rain/snow

When we arrived in Japan, Osaka airport happened to have free umbrellas outside the arrivals hall. I grabbed one and we were so glad to have it for all of the snow we encountered. It was a clear plastic one, so it wouldn’t be great for sun, but I would definitely bring along a small umbrella to block out sun on warmer trips.

21) Pacifiers

I don’t know about you, but for us to have a good night of sleep we tend to throw a good eight pacifiers into the crib. If your little one is as into them as ours is, definitely bring them with you when you travel, too! Don’t forget the binkie clip.

22) Car Seat

You may or may not need to bring a carseat on your trips. We needed one to get from the airport to the Airbnb when we went to San Pancho, Mexico , but didn’t need one in Japan where we exclusively took public transport. That said, you will need to get a ride from someone with a car seat installed to the airport since Ubers do not have infant car seats.

You can check, gate check, or use the car seat on board if you buy your baby a seat (more baby travel tips here ). It’s really up to your comfort level. We always zip it into a travel case and check ours, though it’s a back-up ‘travel’ car seat from a friend. Our main one stays in the car.

23) Lots of bibs and burp cloths

We bring at least four burp cloths with us when we travel.

24) Hat (for sun or cold)

We always bring his hats along, whether it’s a cold-weather beanie or sun hat. Felix rocks this UV-blocking Patagonia hat in sunny environments. Consider baby sunglasses as well.

25) Consider bringing your own detergent

As I mentioned before, our baby has extremely sensitive skin. We have some Dreft samples the pediatrician gave us so that if we do laundry on the road, he’s not getting exposed to scented or harsh detergents that’ll make him break out.

26) Swim gear (life jacket, bathing suit, bathing diapers)

Depending on where you’re going, you may want to have swim gear with you. Consider an infant life jacket, baby floatie, and definitely some bathing diapers!

27) Portable baby activity center

We don’t own one of these (yet) but I could see how MANY times it would have been great to have. You can’t bring absolutely everything when you travel, but this one folds down and gives you somewhere to stash the baby if you have a crawler, which we now do!

28) Portable baby bath

For bath time on the road, we almost always just bring Felix into the shower with us. It’s how we do it at home, too. But as he gets bigger, bath time in the real bath makes more and more sense. This blow-up bath tub creates a safer environment and is workable if your hotel doesn’t have an actual bath tub.

29) Travel Stroller

There are hundreds — maybe thousands? — of strollers out there. Part of the reason why we don’t travel with a stroller is the difficulty of gate checking or luggage checking it, though we’re in the process of testing out the world’s smallest stroller, the Qbit+ all-city . It’s small enough to go into an overhead bin on a plane, and we’re excited to see if we like it!

30) Book(s)

We always bring at least one book with us when we travel. Some of my earliest childhood memories were of nightly reading with my mom before bedtime, and that’s a habit I want to repeat with Felix. We bring one of this smaller and lighter board books with us on the flight (we’re not doing screen time yet) and on the road.

I realize that this list is full of products that can add up fast. Although I have bought some of these things new, I’m a big fan of buying and selling baby products on the secondhand market . More than half of what I listed here has been purchased and resold this way, essentially giving me a cheap or free rental.

Speaking of rentals, you can also rent baby gear at your destination using BabyQuip . Though I haven’t personally used it, I’ve heard good things.

I hope this helps you to have a seamless journey. While we don’t bring everything on this list every time we travel, each of these items has come in handy on various trips we’ve had in Felix’s 8 months Earthside.

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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03/14/2023 at 4:00 am

Glad you didn’t give up on your dreams! Your suggestions are great, I love it. It is both practical and useful. You really inspired me. Thanks a lot for this..

Kristin says

03/22/2023 at 10:49 am

The Best Baby Packing List: The Mother of all Packing Lists!

A giant pile of luggage like you might need after using this baby travel packing list

Gone are the days of traveling light!

You need to follow a baby packing list when you’re traveling with a baby or toddler.

And also, possibly, a pack mule 🙂

Trust us, you don’t want to forget anything.

Baby Packing List Printable Version:

The Best Baby Travel Packing List... The Mother of all Packing Lists!

Have Baby Will Travel’s Mother of All Packing Lists

This baby packing list is based on a destination where you won’t have access to many of the things we deem as necessities. For example, when we went to Cuba , there really wasn’t much you could buy. And what you could buy was very expensive.

Of course, you won’t need everything on this list. And make sure to cross reference with the Carry-On Packing List as there are repeat items.

Have Baby Will Travel’s Mother of all Packing Lists:

Money & documents:.

Cash /credit cards/debit/ATM cards (make sure these work where you’re visiting)
Drivers’ license
Consent letter from non-traveling parent if traveling solo
Photocopies of passport & drivers’ licence, packed separately, in case ID is lost or stolen
Calling card & number for out-of-country calls
Health & travel insurance documents
Vaccination documents, if needed
Address/phone book
Trip itinerary & print outs of e-tickets/reservation confirmations

TOILETRIES:

Toothpaste, toothbrushes, dental floss
Shampoo, conditioner, hair products
Brush & comb
Shaving gear
Glasses and/or Contact lens paraphernalia
Skin cream, makeup
Nail clippers
Insect repellent
Afterbite, for insect bites

HEALTH CARE:

Topical antibiotic ointment
Disinfecting liquid like hydrogen peroxide or alcohol
Cotton swabs
Pain relief tablets
Children’s pain/fever reliever
Oral rehydration liquid or sachets
Allergy medicine
Feminine hygiene products
Prescription medicines

MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS:

Disinfecting wipes
Face Masks (paper or reusable)
Phone & charger
Camera & batteries and/or charger
Camcorder or digital recorder & charger
Tablet/laptop and/or portable game device and/or e-reader, headphones
Power bar/extension cord
Pen & paper
Roll of duct tape (cover outlets, secure blind and electrical cords)
Assorted plastic bags
Assorted plastic containers and lids
Flashlight & batteries
Needle & thread
Small amount of dish and/or laundry soap
Waterproof sheet
Water wings/life jacket
Snorkel & fins
Water goggles
Water shoes
Underwater camera

(Hopefully you can bring enough so you don’t have to do laundry!)

Two swimsuits
Lots of t-shirts or other tops
Long-sleeved shirts
Sweater or jacket
A couple of nice outfits if you need to ‘dress’ for dinner
Several sunhats – they always get lost
Good walking shoes
Accessories
Sarongs – can be used as swimsuit cover-up and baby carrier

SPECIFICALLY FOR BABY!

Breast pump/nursing pads
Formula or powdered milk
Baby food/Baby cereal
Eating utensils
Bottles & nipples
Extra pacifiers
‘Special’ items like blanket, toys, etc.
Crib bedding
Changing pad
Diapers (how many depends on type accessible at your destination)
Swim diapers
Wipes (lots)
Diaper cream
Baby toiletries
More sunhats
Approximately two outfits per day if not planning on doing laundry
Shoes/Sandals
Travel crib/cot
Infant carrier/sling
Car seat/booster seat

This Baby Packing List for Travel Is Crazy!

You’re right!

To summarize, let me reiterate that this baby packing list is EVERYTHING and ANYTHING you might possibly need when you’re on vacation.

Print it out, cross off what you know you won’t need to bring, and marvel at how much faster you get as you go on more and more trips!

And you’ll eventually discover that you’ll need to bring fewer and fewer items as your baby grows bigger and older.

Have Baby Will Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates/Influencer Program . If you make a purchase through this site, we may receive a small commission. Click here to check out our Amazon Store .

Carry-On Packing List
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The Ultimate Baby Travel Tip List
Tips for Flying with an Infant or Toddler at Every Age & Stage
Traveling with a Baby? It Gets Easier
The Complete Guide to Baby Travel Gear

111 Responses to The Best Baby Packing List: The Mother of all Packing Lists!

Wow! I have never taken anything like that amount even when travelling with a 5-month-old baby.

Do you mind telling me what you did take?? Taking a road trip in a couple of weeks with our 6 month old and there might be limited space and I don’t want to lug a whole bunch of stuff.

Sounds like what we ended up taking to Jamaica with our 4yo and 4mo girls. Nail clippers are something I always forget and wish I hadn’t!

Thanks, Sarah! Would love to hear more about your trip!

are you allowed to take prepare bottles of feed for baby , i am thinking no liquids on the plane. ?????

Angella, you’re allowed to bring liquids over the allowable limits if you are traveling with a child under the age of two.

You can take empty bottles or sippy cups and mix drinks or formula after getting through security.

Formula and milk for baby is allowed.if no water allowed then ask from the attendant when in the plane so they can give you water for the formula milk

yes you can take prepared bottles. i thought the same thing when i traveled with my son at 5 months but they said that if its specifically for baby you can bring it, but they will inspect them. i use the powdered formula. so i found it was easier to scoop the powder into a completely dry bottle and then add the appropriate amount of water right when baby needs to be fed. and TSA will also allow you to bring a bottle of water through security too.

Formula is the exception and breast milk of course

Hi there, we are planning on going to Dominican Republic, Punta Cana, maybe Bahia Principe Punta Cana resort. Does anyone know if I can purchase diapers, wipes, and perhaps formula there and how much more expensive is it? My baby will be 7 months old.

Does anyone know how are the sleeping cots for babies? Should I bring a pack & play instead?

Thank you, Andrea.

I’m not sure when you wrote this but I would not count on it. We stayed at the Grand Palladium and the selection at the store was limited. They did not recommend leaving the resort alone.

Hey Andrea, I stayed at Bahia Principe 2 years ago and a small pack of 22 Pampers Splashers was $25 if I recall correctly, don’t know how much they would be now. I suggest you take your own diapers because not only are they expensive but also the selection is limited. On another note I do not recall seeing baby formula at the gift shop or pharmacy. In between I don’t know anything about the sleeping cots for babies make sure you contact the resort. I also want to give you a heads up Bahia Prinicipe has about 4 hotels on the same property. They range from 2 to 5 stars depending on the one you’ll be at things might just be or more complicated or simply more convenient. Hope you enjoy your trip don’t forget bug repellant, sun screen, children’s Med and what not 😉

Hi just wondering when this was posted, I am heading there in one week and would love to know the situation for sleeping for children I was planning on bringing my pack and play but would love to leave it at home if theirs are good quality

My recommendation would be to check with the hotel directly. Have a great trip!

i live in the Dominican Republic, the prices in the hotel store is higher, you can always ask to go to Plaza San Juan to the Super Market is cheaper there. The Super Market name is Supermercado Pola or in Punta Cana Village Supermercado Nacional this one is a little more spensive than the other.

Hello, when i travelled with my baby i found it way cheaper to purchased an extra lugguge (30$ each way) then purchasing stuff in the gift shop. Diapers are ok, formula not the same brands, solar cream 20$ a bottle. At the end buying an extra luggage ad bringing your own stuff for your little one with be a lot cheaper and you can bring more as your limit will be 55lbs.

Hope this help

Lists are so great! Thanks for compiling this comprehensive list.

Great packing list. Very admirable. As I have been on a month long solo road trip, I can understand the importance of a comprehensive packing list. I highly recommend your article.

Great list! I’m a lousy packer, this list I going to be my travel buddy from now on. I am definitely saving it. Thanks! 

do the children meds need to be sealed (new) or can I take my already opened?

I’ve taken products that weren’t sealed, it was never an issue.

Thank you for your packing list. There were things on the list that I didn’t think of but needed like pedialite (and needed). Our trip went badly with a sick baby and home sick 2 year old but having everything I needed really helped.

So sorry to hear your baby was sick, but I’m so glad to be of service!

Here’s a few I consider essentials that I didn’t see :

Baby birth certificate (required for lap infants) Baby toys Bedtime book Sunscreen

Sun Block is under Toiletries and Toys are under Special Items in Specifically For Baby!!! Book would fall under that category

If you have the babys passport you dont need birth certificate for infants

Not true. We were told to bring both passport and birth certificate.

Baby Monitor!!

Wow! Amazing thank you so much. This is really comprehensive list for travelling.

I also take baby’s red book (health record book) in case I need details of the immunisations or any other details…

Wow what an extensive list! I can’t say I travel with that much stuff with babies, but this is a great starting point. I find it can be useful to try to find items that can double up – like a mattress in a travel crib can work as a changing pad, and to take toys that can also be used in the bath.

This is an awesome website with tons of great info!! Thanks for all your help.

Whoa. We travel to see their Daddy(My husband) who is in the Army and a few states away once a month for about 4days each. And Wow. This is an insane amount of stuff! Lol our car is so small it wouldn’t even fit all of these things! We have a 17months old& a 6month old, and we take about 1/2 – 3/4th of this stuff and they do wonderfully! But wonderful list! 😀 Thanks!

Definitely a everything-and-the-kitchen-sink list, just so all bases are covered 🙂

How many regular diapers and swim diapers should I take for 1 week in Mexico?

I think I budgeted 2 swim diapers and 5 regular diapers per day. Added that to the travel day diaper budget of 1 per hour of journey – just to be safe! It’s a lot but they don’t weigh much and you don’t have them for the trip home!

For a trip to Mexico, what would you pack for baby in carry on and checked luggage? Scared of losing luggage thru airline with baby essentials in it. TIA

Hi Katie! I created the Carry-On Packing List for just such an occasion. Have a wonderful trip!!

This is the third trip I am taking with my twins and the third time I’m printing off both the carry-on and packing lists. I don’t take everything on the lists, but they are an invaluable guide to make sure nothing important to us is forgotten. Thank you so much!!

Thank you, Jodi–that is great to hear!

Hi! First time mom and first time traveling with a baby alone. I have flown with my sister who was 6. But this list will really help me. I was very nervous about a week before I found this list..about forgetting anything, and how to keep her entertained and all the worries moms have that go along with flying with my baby alone.

My daughter is eleven months old and very active. She’s also teething and getting a molar. I am flying to Florida to see my mom and fam. Its got to planes and a 30 min layover. I have a very heavy car seat as well. Any suggestions? I’m so worried I won’t make my flights, and lugging a bunch of stuff is hard for me with fibromyalgia, and how do I go to the bathroom on the plane with her,where do I change her on the plane? has anyone dealt with poopy diapers on a plane? I am just so worried…and stressed out. I no longer have finger nails! lol -Sincerely Worried Mommy

Hang in there, Jaime! You could try a cart or wheeled car seat travel bag like this to lug your heavy seat around, or invest in an inexpensive and lightweight seat just for travel–the Cosco Scenera is a good one.

At least one of the airplane washrooms should have a change table. Wear her in a lightweight carrier for your bathroom trips–they aren’t comfy or relaxing but they can be done! Make sure to have a stash of plastic bags on hand to handle yucky diapers and any other assorted messes you are bound to encounter. Try not to stress out! Give yourself lots of time and take lots of deep breaths. You can do this!

Im surprised a thermometer isnt on this list. i never, ever travel without one.

I’m going to Indiana after Christmas this year with my then 7 month old…i know it’s going to be very cold this year, is there something special i should bring for him?

Make sure he has a snowsuit, or a bundler for your stroller. Have fun!

It looks like it’s a lot to carry but I think that pretty much completes your daily travel needs.

Thanks for sharing those nice lists!

What about Sunblock, medicine and a first aid kit!!!

Nevermind… I see it now… I was only looking at the baby section!!! 🙂 This list is awesome!!

My little will only drink from a bottle so I’ve been a slave to expressing for quite awhile. If you’re in the same boat you’ll need: breast pump, charging cord/batteries, lines/pump accessories, bottles, bottle lids, storage bags/bottles.

Happy travels mamas!

Orajel. you do not want to be meandering around another country when the baby decides to cut a tooth.

Great suggestion–thanks, Holli!

Orajel has several FDA warnings about fatal blood dyscrasias and reations. Please consider not using Orajel, instead use clove oil mixed in olive oil, Hylands, or tylenol.

Lets not forget the Nasal Care products for babies

hi…thank you so much for this amazing info about traveling list. this from cebu.philippines, first time mom of 4 months old baby girl. You’re great. Thanks again for helping in this amazing guide.

which kind of sunscreen for a 8 month old do you recommend?

I’d splurge for an organic brand if it’s within your budget. Blue Lizard is a good one.

This list is awesome! I’m printing it and will use everytime from now on! I am stll getting used to all this travel with a baby!

Hi is there any tips for me im going to a dam that has nothing i need some fun idees for a two and almost 1 year old boys to keep them busy, i feel very dum asking this questions. But i know thay may enjoy fishing for a bit and then want to do something else its is going to be hot were we go its close to the krugar park i dont know if any one went Klaserie dam

Hi! We are going on our first trip with our son (he will be 7.5 months when we leave) to an all inclusive in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (The Royalton Resort). Is it advisable and or necessary to bring the car seat? (I ask because we are being transported to and from the airport by bus). Also, our travel agent requested a crib for our room, but I wonder if we should bring our pack & play just in case? Or am I being paranoid…

Hi Kirsty! The Royalton should have a decent crib, so you can save your luggage allotment 🙂 If you’re not likely to do any excursions by taxi, than it’s not necessary to bring your car seat along. Unless you purchased your baby an airline seat in which case he’d need it on the plane.

Thanks so much for your advice! Your website is a life (and anxiety) saver. I have been telling all of my new mom-friends about it!

Thanks so much for the kind words, Kirsty–I hope you have wonderful travels this year!

We are about to set out on what I think will be a 27-hour journey (door-to-door) from Europe to the US. Do I really need 27 diapers? Or does this recommendation change once the journey becomes insanely longer than anyone should every have to undertake?

Lol. Maybe not 27 🙂 But think of a number of diapers that your baby would normally go through in that time and double it. Good luck!

We did a similar trip -34 hours- Zurich to Houston via 18 hour lay over in Istanbul with a 2 month old and a 5 year old. We stayed at a hotel during our lay over but thankfully brought enough diapers (40) and 4 pull ups ( just in case we had any accidents). Since nb diapers are small, space was not an issue and am glad we brought that many…better more than sorry. We arrived with enough pull ups and diapers to last one more day, find a store and buy enough to last us a road trip to FLorida. Will I do it again? Yes! Setting up for another long road trip – this time across Western Europe…

Thanks so much for your feedback, Sophia–Happy New Year!

Great tips! I agree with all of them and can totally relate. I could chat with you on this one for hours:) We traveled on a 16 hour flight with my 5 month old twin boys to see my family in India. We went for the same reason as yours, we wanted the rest of the family to see them early on. Although I couldn’t ever go alone with two babies and my husband was with me. I was on another long flight with my mom on our way back and my kids were 10 months old then. I would say it is definitely better to travel when they are younger and not mobile. The second time was more challenging because they wanted to explore and would hardly fit in the bassinets (those things are so small and flimsy) But, isn’t it great how you are allowed to jump long lines and you are right, if you dare to do it, you will make amazing memories:) You have put everything together very well:)

Such a complete packing list! It includes everything that need to be packed for a holiday. I am gonna use them for our first trip next week. Thanks for sharing!!

Amazing list and feedback!

We’re going to Cuba in March with our then 7 mo. Will we need to bring an outlet converter to use a kettle or bottle warmer?

Are nail clippers still confiscated in carry-ons? I always have it in my baby bag.

Hi Leyda! It depend on your resort, many Cuban hotels now offer two plug options, but it wouldn’t hurt to toss a converter in your bag, just in case. Even an extension cord, since it’s been our experience that even if you do have an outlet, there may only be one!

Hi Corrine,

Thanks for your list its very useful. Could you please advise me whether or not to take a car seat on board. I am travelling from London on a 5 hour flight, my baby will be 6 months old and its our first trip. there is no bassinet on the plane as its small but the booking agent said they would keep the middle seat free between my husband and I if its not a busy flight. Do you suggest bringing the car seat so we have a place to put baby securely or alternatively have him strapped to either of us during take off and landing?

I then worry about nap time, and he’s a very sensitive baby to environment and i am worried if its going to be okay if either of us cradle him for his nap?

We will have a car seat borrowed at our destination and have one to reach airport so not sure if we need one on board. we have bought the Baby Zen Yo Yo as our travel stroller so we will have that in addition to 2 carry ons (1 for baby, 1 for husband and i and 2 suitcases.

Looking forward to your advice.

Hi Rima! Certainly if you can swing it, your baby and you will have a much easier time of it if you purchase him a seat and install his car seat. You would be surprised how well some babies actually sleep on planes once they actually drop off. If he’s wrapped up snug and possibly worn in a carrier or sling you might be ok?

Hi, list is good, but do they allow to travel with water and liquids fr 1 yr old kids where we shall fly to USA?

One-year-olds are exempt from the liquid restriction rules. Just make sure to have all their foods and liquids set aside for inspection.

I used this list, it was perfect! I recently went to Mexico with my 9 month old and didn’t miss a beat! The only suggestion that I have is to bring a bigger stroller than an umbrella stroller. You don’t realize how much you use the cup holders and extra storage. Great list! Thank you!

Thanks, Jen–so glad you had a great trip!

I also recommend those giant plastic zipper bags, the ones a size up from the freezer size. They are perfect for bath items and feeding essentials.

Excellent List! Very comprehensive and very helpful. Thank you for posting.

hi.. can anyone help me.. i am going goa next week..i want to know that is there any facility of stroller for 1 year baby.. or i can take my own praim in flight.. i am very worried about to carry baby whole day.. how can i manage with ma baby without stroller

Hi Prachi! You should be able to gate check your stroller and it will be waiting for you when you deplane. Good luck!

Hi everyone.. I’m first time traveling in a domestic flight in USA from Washington DC to lasvegas I have 5 month old and 3 year old . Is it better to take car seat and stroller for my baby ? We are also planning to visit Grand Canyon for one day? Any suggestions regarding carrying strollers for both kids?

Hi Naga!Maybe a stroller that a car seat can snap into but also be used without? That way you have the option of wearing one child while strolling another. Your three-year-old will still need a car seat, though. So maybe it would be easier just to bring a double stroller and gate check both seats?

Hello, thank you for this list!! It’s terrific! I was wondering what is a light weight stroller I can purchase to take with me to Mexico? I will be traveling with my 9 month old and really don’t want to stroll a Stokke stroller around (too heavy). Thank you in advance!

Hi Val! If you are willing to make the investment, you really can’t go wrong with a Maclaren or UPPAbaby G-Luxe . Other tips found here: https://havebabywilltravel.com/2014/03/16/best-travel-stroller-options/ Thanks!

I’m traveling overseas with a 7 mo old and our total plane time is 50 hours. One thing I would bring is saline spray to moisturize his nose. I know that the dry airplane air will be very tough on him.

Great advice! Thanks, Irma 🙂

Thank you so much for all of this information! I have two questions. First, am I allowed to BF my 4 month old daughter on the plane? I’m flying Southwest and it’s easier for me if I can BF. Second, I am flying from San Diego to Sacramento (nice short flight), do I need a consent form from my husband if I’m flying solo?

Hi Lindsay! You are definitely allowed to BF your daughter on the plane. The attendants may have an issue with how she is held during take-off and landing, but anecdotally I have heard of no issues. Since you are not leaving the country without her they likely will be no issues with flying solo, but it wouldn’t hurt to have a letter from him on hand, just in case. Have a great trip!

What is a consent form from non-traveling parent? Is it to say that they know you’re traveling, or consent to treat in a hospital? I have no clue!!

Hi there! If you’re traveling alone with the baby, especially if you will be leaving the country, you should have a letter of consent from the non-traveling parent that states they are aware and are ok with you taking the baby without them. The US seems to be the most strict about this, but I’ve had the letter requested when returning to Canada from Caribbean countries as well.

Why start taking note on your own when you can have this list printed? This looks awesome! A very comprehensive list!:)

This is exactly what I am looking for. This list will guide me pack my things specially now with a baby with me. Great job!

Nice blog. Really helpful for mom. I think a baby will need some essential items: a place to sleep, a safe seat in the car, diapers and some items to feed, transport and stay safe. This list of thing for a new baby helps mom to take care baby easily and comfortably. Thanks for sharing a really helpful blog.

Thanks for these amazing tips.. This is really comprehensive list for travelling.

This is a good packing list and comprehensive one. I will keep this list saved with me for my next long trip. Thank you for sharing it.

Good post, Hi there! If you’re traveling alone with the baby, especially if you will be leaving the country, you should have a letter of consent from the non-traveling parent that states they are aware and are ok with you taking the baby without them. The US seems to be the most strict about this, but I’ve had the letter requested when returning to Canada from Caribbean countries as well.

Great tip, Lauren!

We’re going on the road soon with our little Olivia, and was looking for a packing list. Yours was the best we found! 🙂 Thanks a lot for sharing this with us

Thanks, Kim–have a great trip!

This is a great checklist. It should definitely be printed out and used for traveling.

Great post. This Baby Packing List is awesome. I learned lot’s of information. keep up good work!

This is such a comprehensive packing list! I wish there would have been something like this available when my kids were babies – I used to worry so much about whether I was forgetting something!

I was such a worrywart as a new mom that I still get secondhand anxiety about it 🙂

Trackbacks/Pingbacks

[…] as prepared a traveling parent as there ever was. I’m infinitely mocked for my over-the-top baby packing list and carry-on packing list. But my children are children, and truthfully? I’m tired of being […]

[…] Will Travel — your online guide for travel with babies, toddlers & young children. From baby packing lists to tips on coping with jet lag in toddlers, Have Baby Will Travel wants to help you travel with […]

[…] take it with you, like Corinne McDermott of Have Baby Will Travel: I am teased mercilessly about my baby packing list, but truth be told, I resent the pressure to “pack light” and the assertions of “you […]

[…] ones.While you may not be traveling as lightly as you used to, and I often joke about my mammoth packing list, the reality is most parents are wise enough to choose a few select items for baby that truthfully […]

[…] a extensive Mother of All Packing Lists! This site includes info about travel and sleep and feeding baby while traveling. There’s […]

[…] Our family travel experts are Corinne McDermott of Have Baby Will Travel!, and Globetrotting Mama Heather Greenwood Davis. Travelling with a baby? Make sure you don’t leave anything behind, with Corinne’s Mother of all packing lists. […]

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The ultimate packing list for traveling with a baby

Be prepared for just about everything with this tried and tested list.

What to pack when traveling with a baby

What to pack for your baby in a carry-on, free printable baby packing list.

Pre-kids, my husband and I were the people who'd show up at the airport 40 minutes before a flight, breeze through TSA pre-check, refill our water bottles, and walk right onto the plane with our carry-ons.

After I had two children, this strategy pretty much went out the window. It didn't matter if we were going away for one night or two weeks: when we started traveling with a baby , we packed nearly everything we owned. It took four years and countless trips, but I've since perfected the art of flying with a baby .

Ahead, find out exactly what you'll need to pack for a baby.

To make the packing process easier on yourself, start with the BabyCenter-approved list below. You can print it out and make any changes as needed – such as eliminating items your baby has outgrown, adding new things they need, and making adjustments based on the length of your trip and the climate.

It's helpful to start gathering supplies about a week in advance, laundering anything that needs to be cleaned (such as a pack 'n' play sheet), and shopping for used-up supplies (such as travel-sized toiletries).

If you're looking for more guidance, get extra-detailed tips below.

Travel gear

To get your baby from point A to point B, you'll need a few basics.

Travel stroller

If you're running late to catch a flight, it's much easier to push your baby in a lightweight umbrella stroller than to carry them through a long terminal. Some travel strollers are Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-approved and fold to fit in the carry-on bins on board, but most get gate-checked. Remember to bring the travel bag that came with it to protect the stroller from damage.

Add bag hooks and a stroller caddy (the Colugo Opens a new window one even doubles as a fanny pack), and utilize the under-basket storage. Some travel systems allow you to hook the car seat on top of the stroller, meaning you have one less item to lug around.

While you can rent car seats at your destination, experts highly recommend bringing one with you. "Renting one often comes with challenges, including risking it not being appropriate for age, weight, or height," says Chandani Patel DeZure, M.D. , a pediatrician and BabyCenter Medical Advisor . "In addition, it is safest to fly on an airplane with a baby in a car seat – just make sure the car seat is FAA-approved."

You can also use it for car rides to and from the airport.

Car seat bag

One of the best perks of traveling with a car seat is using a car seat bag, a giant lightweight backpack that fits a car seat. Usually, you can stuff extras – such as a package of diapers, swim floaties, or other odd-shaped items – that won't neatly fit in a suitcase.

Baby carrier

Parents swear by baby carriers for airport travel. I find them most effective for babies under 6 months . (After that, they get heavy!) Just don't baby wear on the plane during take-off or landing, per the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

The same sleep safety rules apply when you travel: Your baby should sleep alone in a crib or bassinet with nothing in it. Borrow a crib, bassinet, or pack 'n' play from your hotel, or try a reputable rental company (such as BabyQuip Opens a new window ).

Consider bringing a SlumberPod Opens a new window , which is a blackout tent that goes over the pack 'n' play. If your baby sleeps best in dark spaces, you can also pack travel blackout curtains or tape black garbage bags over the windows.

Don't leave home without the sleep accessories your baby is familiar with, such as a white noise machine, sleep sack or swaddle, and pacifier.

Breastfeeding, pumping, formula bottles, and solids feeding supplies

Depending on how you're feeding your child, you'll need certain gear. (And if you have a newborn, you'll also want a burp cloth on hand.)

Breastfeeding

Pack a daytime nursing bra, sleeping bra or tank, travel breastfeeding pillow (Boppy makes an excellent one Opens a new window I used on a plane with my then 4-month-old), and any nipple skincare products you use (creams, butters, pads, and the like).

You may also want to bring some sort of shawl to drape over the baby for in-public feeds. (This doubles as a way to keep both of you warm on chilly flights).

I've also traveled with breast pumps – both the Spectra (an electric pump ) and the original Elvie (a wearable pump). If the latter works for you, I highly recommend it as I was able to use it during the flight . You'll also need pump cleaning supplies (such as a brush, soap, drying rack, and on-the-go cleaning wipes), a pumping bra , milk storage bags , and bottles to feed the baby. And don't forget to bring a charger for the pump!

If you plan to freeze any extra milk, bring a freezer bag and ice packs. Frozen breast milk is easier to get through security than fresh milk, which may require testing. Read more about breast milk travel regulations .

Formula feeding

Ensure you're packing enough formula for the trip by measuring what your baby eats in a day and then bringing extra. You'll want more than enough in case of travel delays or spills. For in-flight travel, you can pre-measure formula , and store it in a Ziploc bag or bottle. Bring filtered water, or buy it at the airport to make a bottle in a snap.

You'll also need to bring bottles (I typically bring two), nipples, and bottle washing supplies (like a brush, soap, and drying rack). If your baby prefers warmed milk, you can pack a thermos. For your travel day, fill it with hot water and use that to warm up a bottle on the go. There are also travel bottle warmers .

First and foremost, you'll need to bring enough food for the travel day. (Squeeze pouches are always a great idea.) Additionally, pack kids' silverware ( spoon and fork), grippy plates and bowls, a sippy cup for water, spill-proof snack cups, and food storage containers. We always travel with an easy-to-wipe silicone bib (which also can save an outfit if your baby is a messy eater).

Unless your baby is going to sit on your lap for every meal (which might be miserable for you), you'll need to rent a high chair or bring a fold-up one (like the Bombol pack-up booster Opens a new window , which packs flat).

The easiest way to get a high volume of diapers to your destination is to send a package to the hotel or cruise line in advance. Otherwise, throw a sleeve or two in the stroller bag or car seat bag (as diapers take up precious space in suitcases) and buy more when you get there.

If you are bringing diapers with you, count how many diapers your baby typically uses in a day. Then add enough for at least one extra day, since you never know how a trip will pan out. Here are some quick calculations, but note that every child is different:

Newborns: eight to 12 diapers per day

2-3 months: eight to 10 diapers per day

3-6 months: seven to nine diapers per day

6-12 months: five to seven diapers per day

You'll also need wipes (throw extra packs in the car seat bag!), a travel changing mat (or disposable changing pads), diaper disposal bags, and diaper creams (Aquaphor, butt paste, etc.). Remember to bring swim diapers if you're going somewhere with a pool or beach .

Clothing, outerwear, and shoes

Little ones, especially newborns, go through multiple outfit changes a day thanks to spit-up, blowouts, and other unexpected events. Pack about two outfits per day and extra pajamas (as the same principles apply overnight). Don't forget socks, shoes if you have a walker, and layers. (Babies get cold and hot quickly.)

If you're packing for a cruise or headed somewhere tropical, toss in a swimsuit, hat, and UPF clothing. For cooler climates, make sure your baby has cozy sweaters, booties, and a warm hat.

Some hotel rooms only have showers, and if your baby typically washes in a tub, you'll need to get creative. We've used an oversized kitchen sink as a makeshift bathtub, and we've also rented baby tubs or brought an inflatable one. Plan this in advance.

You'll also want to bring travel baby shampoo , body wash, and lotion – especially if your little one is sensitive to fragrance. We've also brought a baby towel and familiar bath toys to help our kids adjust to a new setting.

Health and safety

You won't regret traveling with a baby first aid kit. It can include band-aids, infant pain reliever, any other medicine or prescription ointments your baby uses, a thermometer, insect repellent, and baby-safe sunscreen. Pro tip: Throw in a few vomit bags for potential motion sickness incidents.

Consult with your child's pediatrician with any questions for this packing category.

Entertainment

What you pack comes down to parental and baby preferences. A tablet, preloaded with shows and movies, can be helpful to get through a flight or long car ride. If screentime is not on your agenda, try books, activity pads, coloring books (specifically the "magic marker" ones Opens a new window for less mess), and reusable stickers (great for sticking on plane or car windows). (Check out these kid-friendly car games for more family fun.)

Once you're there, you might want to have tummy time mats , sand toys , or baby dolls on hand. You can have toys delivered to your hotel from services like BabyQuip Opens a new window , or pack a selection of "surprise" playthings yourself. And don't forget your baby's favorite stuffie or lovey!

You'll never be prepared for all situations, so level-set expectations, but you can still be very prepared for most!

To start, your baby will need a passport if you're traveling internationally .

Also, grab extra diapers (at least a day's worth), a pack of wipes, a travel diaper pad, and diaper creams for mid-flight diaper changes . Pack an extra change of clothes for both you and the baby, because if they're sitting on your lap, any mishaps (spit-up, throw-up, or massive poop) may end up on you, too. Plastic bags – to catch vomit or store stained clothes – also come in handy.

Bring a full day's worth of food and some extra, as well as anything you need for breastfeeding and pumping. If your flight is delayed or you hit road trip traffic, you'll be so grateful to have a pump, milk bags, and a cooler on hand. (It's happened to me.)

Add in the first aid kit and meds. Then stuff as many toys as you can in the extra space left.

Print or download our BabyCenter-approved checklist for easier packing when traveling with a baby.

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BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world. When creating and updating content, we rely on credible sources: respected health organizations, professional groups of doctors and other experts, and published studies in peer-reviewed journals. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're seeing. Learn more about our editorial and medical review policies .

American Academy of Pediatrics. 2023. Tips for Traveling with Young Ones this Holiday Season. https://www.aap.org/en/news-room/news-releases/health--safety-tips/american-academy-of-pediatrics-tips-for-traveling-with-young-ones-this-holiday-season Opens a new window [Accessed February 2024]

American Academy of Pediatrics. 2023. Safe Sleep. https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/safe-sleep/ Opens a new window [Accessed February 2024]

Transportation Security Administration. Undated. Is Breast Milk, Formula and Juice exempt from the 3-1-1 liquids rule? https://www.tsa.gov/travel/frequently-asked-questions/breast-milk-formula-and-juice-exempt-3-1-1-liquids-rule Opens a new window [Accessed February 2024]

Lauren is a New York-based content director, writer, and brand consultant. She is a #girlmom to a school-age daughter and a toddler.

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10 baby travel essentials for every journey + baby packing checklist.

Items you absolutely need if you’re traveling with a baby

Are you new parents about to undertake your first trip with a baby?

Congratulations! Welcome to the scary but exciting world of family travel .

The good news is infants can actually make quite good travel companions. They complain and move about far less than toddlers , they don’t need their own full-size bed, and you don’t need to buy a separate plane ticket!

The bad news, I bet it’s a little daunting thinking about all the baby travel gear you need to pack

What if I forget something? What are the most important things to buy? What’s a complete waste of money?

After traveling extensively with three babies over a decade, we’ve learned a thing or two about packing for babies and what baby items are really useful to bring with you when it comes to the crunch (and what we’d leave at home).

We have an absolute bumper baby travel checklist here covering everything you need. However, for this baby essentials guide, we wanted to help you narrow it down with the top 10 essentials for traveling with a baby.

This post is part of our Baby Travel Advice series

If your child is slightly older, pop on over to our Toddler Travel Essentials page.

10 Baby Travel Essentials For Every Type of Journey

Baby travel essential #1: a baby carrier.

Being able to walk hands-free through crowds, upstairs, on and off public transport is a vital part of traveling with a baby, so without a doubt, a baby carrier tops our list as the most essential baby travel item .

After trying several different types, our favorite brand has been Ergobaby. As well as front wearing from newborn (with an insert), it can be used as a back carrier for years to come, right through the toddler years (we discuss our favorite toddler carriers here).

Since we first purchased our first Ergobaby back in 2012, you can now also get the Ergo 360 model that allows baby to be forward-facing on the front. It’s by far the most versatile and comfortable carrier for a long-term investment.

Ergo Baby Omni

Ergo Baby Insert

Ergo 360 Model

Ergobaby 360 All-Position Baby Carrier with Lumbar Support (12-45 Pounds), Carbon Grey, Cool Air Mesh

TIP: There are so many things to consider when investing in a baby carrier that will become a travelling essential for years. From our experience, the newborn insert for the Ergo wasn’t brilliant, for a newborn I would still recommend something like a Boba Wrap where they can be held in close to you (practice, practice, practice using these at home with some help though before heading into the big wide world and first trying it on at the airport!!!). If you will be heading to the beach or a resort, consider a waterproof baby sling .

I would also only consider a more heavy-duty child carrier like the popular Deuter Kid Comfort child carrier backpack beyond 12 months old, and only if you do a lot of walking/hiking .

The Ergobaby will comfortably see you through for occasional and urban use for several years. (And for the really brave – you CAN wear the Ergo on your back with a toddler with a newborn wrapped on the front – sorry we never got a photo of this in action!!).

Baby Travel Essential #2: A Reliable Travel System

Oh, how we’ve agonized for years on finding “the right one” – I bet this will be one of the biggest baby purchasing decisions you and your partner will make and the one you’ll agonize and argue over the most – after all, it’s a lot of money but so important for everyday life AND travel .

I first stated it here – and many times again – you will end up owning multiple strollers!!! No one stroller will fit all your needs from birth to toddler.

We got to baby #3 before discovering ultra-compact strollers for travel. They are so small they can come all the way onto the plane with you and fold into the overhead bin.

If you are frequent flyers, honestly, I would invest in this from the start. There are now multiple manufacturers targeting this market, but these three have been around the longest, and we’d say they are the most reliable as they can be used from newborn (with car seat attachments/adaptor kits)

Mountain Buggy Nano V3

Baby Jogger City Tour 2

Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Ultra-Compact Travel Stroller, Jet

Baby Zen Yoyo + Newborn Pack

BABYZEN YOYO 0+ Newborn Pack, Black - Includes Mattress, Canopy, Head Support & Foot Cover - Requires YOYO2 Frame (Sold Separately)

If you are looking for twins or children close in age, check out this selection of lightweight double strollers perfect for travel. The only one that you can adapt from newborn in this category at present is the Mountain Buggy Duo.

Baby Travel Essential #4: Nursing Cover

Bebe au Lait Premium Cotton Nursing Cover, Lightweight and Breathable Cotton, Open Neckline, One Size Fits All - Fern

Without a doubt, one of my personal, most loved possessions over the years has been my Bebe au Lait nursing cover . Available in lots of amazing colors and patterns, but I liked my sophisticated and subtle black, it’s allowed me to breastfeed with confidence out in public all over the world.

You can see our complete guide to picking the best nursing cover to suit you here

TIP: Don’t forget when your travelling to pack extra breast pads, even if you don’t normally leak, the impact of time change and jet lag can throw your natural feeding cycles out of rhythm and lead to leaky boobs on the move!

Baby Travel Essential # 5: SnoozeShade

Universal Baby Car Seat Sun & Sleep Cover | Unisex Air-Permeable Mesh Baby Car Seat Canopy | Blocks 99% of UV | Don't Touch Baby Sign Included

I’ve seen many wonderful and innovative products come up even in the last few years since I’ve become a mum – a lot of entrepreneurial mommies out there trying to solve our parenting problems! – but one of the best I’ve seen is the SnoozeShade .

I’ve seen some lovely hand-designed cotton ones, too (far better than my effort throwing a muslin over the pram with a bulldog clip), but this one built with breathable mesh fabric that also blocks out UV rays is a real winner and a must for your travel gear.

But do check out some newer alternatives too, which may suit your style – wearable nursing covers that can also double as a sunshade. What do you think?

Yoofoss Nursing Cover Breastfeeding Scarf

Car Seat Canopy Breastfeeding Cover

Pobi Baby Car Seat Covers and Nursing Cover

Baby Travel Essential # 7: Portable Travel Cot

Forget bulky play n play systems unless weight and size are no object; these old-style “travel cots” are out, and the newer, more versatile Traveller-style cots and pop-up pods are in!

KidCo Peapod Prestige Lightweight Pop Up Child Portable Travel Bed with Storage Pocket, and Carry Bag for Beach Days, Camping, and Outdoors, Seafoam

It depends on how long you want your product to last you and what sort of traveling you do. We love the KidCo Peapod from newborn (or Peapod Plus from 6 months), which is like a canopy tent.

However, we later discovered the Phil & Teds Traveller Cot and this would be our top choice to last you through to the toddler years as well – super lightweight, though it does involve a few construction skills. If you’re using it outside, don’t forget your bassinet sunshade.

Simply put, we never rely on our hotel room or holiday rental to have the appropriate gear. We always got peace of mind bringing our own, even if it takes up a little extra space in our packing to know our totw would get a good night’s sleep.

You can see our full comparison guide on travel cots and portable bassinets here, or check out some of these designs and options:

Guava Lotus Travel Crib

Munchkin Brica Baby Travel Pod

Baby Travel Essential #9: Large Muslin Cloths

aden + anais Essentials Muslin Swaddle Blankets for Baby Girls and Boys, Newborn Receiving Blanket for Swaddling, 100% Cotton Baby Swaddle Wrap, 4 Pack, Dapper

Over the years, these aden + anais extra-large muslin swaddles have become a much-beloved item (yes, even with bigger kids, too!). They are so immensely versatile from cleaning up spills to swaddling, emergency sun cover or breastfeeding cover, quick blanket for on a lawn – we’ve used them for just about everything! They are undoubtedly one of the top baby travel essentials you’ll want on your list.

Being so light and thin they are especially good for warmer climates and very easy to rinse and dry if they do get dirty. You MUST have some of these in your travel bag – and I bet you will for years to come!

Baby Travel Essential #10: Feeding Essentials

Philips AVENT BPA Free Formula Dispenser/Snack Cup

If you are bottle-feeding or weaning older babies, a pre-filled formula container should be amongst your baby travel items.

A Philips AVENT dispenser has been our product of choice for years, as well as a silicone bib for solid food – they’re quick and easy to wipe clean – and an easy stack snack container .

Note: Always check the latest airline regulations for the country you are flying from for liquid rules. At the time of publishing this post this is the latest TSA advice:

“Formula, breast milk and juice in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces or 100 millilitres are allowed in carry-on baggage and do need to not fit within a quart-sized bag. Separate formula, breast milk and juice from other liquids, gels and aerosols limited to 3.4 ounces. Ice packs, freezer packs, frozen gel packs and other accessories required to cool formula, breast milk and juice are allowed in carry-on. If these accessories are partially frozen or slushy, they are subject to the same screening as described above. You may also bring gel or liquid-filled teethers, canned, jarred and processed baby food in carry-on baggage. These items may be subject to additional screening.” Transport Security Administration

We have a more detailed guide about transporting milk which can be found here , along with a guide to breastmilk cooler bags or check out this complete guide to travelling with bottles.

And 5 more “nice to have” baby items we’ve loved when on the move

Portable baby monitor.

VTech VM819 Video Baby Monitor with 19 Hour Battery Life, 1000ft Long Range, 2.8” Display, Auto Night Vision, 2Way Audio Talk, Temperature Sensor and Lullabies,480p

While this is not a baby travel essential in every situation as it does significantly add weight and space, if you’ll be staying anywhere where perhaps the baby is out of immediate earshot, we recommend a portable baby monitor. Some even come with a portable sound machine which some children need.

We have a complete review of leading baby monitors for different travel situations over here.

Infant Sunglasses

Baby Banz Sunglasses Infant Sun Protection – Ages 0-2 Years – THE BEST SUNGLASSES FOR BABIES & TODDLERS – Industry Leading Sun Protection Rating – 100% UV

OK, I can hear some of you mocking me from here, but first-timers do stick with me! A lot of babies do hate them and will pull them off immediately, but for the record, my number 3 DIDN’T (well up to about 7 months old) . If you’re heading anywhere hot and sunny, do give them a try.

Worth it if you can make them work, but I’m afraid there’s no magic way to know if they’ll take to them without trial and error. Luckily, they are relatively inexpensive so worth the experiment.

Why not try these highly recommended ro•sham•bo baby sunglasses?

Baby Beach Shade

Venustas Beach Tent Sun Shelter for 3/4-5/6-7/8-10 Person, UPF 50+ UV Protection Beach Canopy, Lightweight and Easy Setup

If you’ve never taken a baby to the beach before – you’ve been warned!! SAND.GETS.EVERYWHERE! I can’t promise these little beauties will solve all your sand issues, but they are a great way for babies to sit and play with less sand while being protected from the sun.

I’d say these are perfect from approximately five months old (or sitting upright) through to 12 months, or walking – when they have no intentions of staying still! One with an easy fold frame and carry case is a must.

You can catch our complete guide to baby beach shades here

Toy Teethers & Pacifier Clips

4-Pack Silicone Pacifier Clips with One-Piece Beads for Baby Boys and Girls - Flexible and Rust-Free Holders for Teething Relief and Baby Essentials, Safe for Newborns (Grey)

How often have you found yourself searching for dropped baby items on the floor? Keeping the grub and grime away, a pacifier clip or toy teether will keep these small items from constantly falling to the floor. They are inexpensive and easy items to include on your family vacation packing list.

Baby Sleep Sacks

Yoofoss Baby Sleep Sack 0-6 Months Baby Wearable Blanket 100% Cotton 2-Way Zipper TOG 0.5 Toddler Sleeping Sack 3 Pack, Comfy Soft Lightweight Sleep Sacks for Babies(Small)

Another baby travel essential that we couldn’t have lived without was baby sleep sacks. They assist with seamlessly transferring a sleeping bub from one form of transportation to another without needing to redress or re-wrap them.

Leading brands will come with holes cut in for your car seat harnesses, or move them from stroller to cot. They come in several different weights for hot and cold climates.

Best of the rest – download your baby packing list now!

This baby travel essentials list is not exhaustive! From small toys to essential clothing items in different climates, there are undoubtedly a lot of scenarios you need to consider when traveling with a baby.

The most important thing to remember is that babies are everywhere! Wherever you are traveling to, you will almost certainly find baby supply shops for anything you’ve forgotten.

Pop over to our ultimate baby travel checklist here , or join our online community and immediately get your hands on the printable PDF version of our baby travel checklist – plus our complete range of packing lists for every type of family travel.

Note we will ask you to sign up to our mailing list when downloading the checklist, but if you decide it’s not for you, you can unsubscribe at any time.

More Baby Travel Essentials

We have several more detailed reviews and advice posts covering you through the years of baby travel. Why not pop on over and read next:

Your first time flying with a baby ; Everything you need to know, from booking seats to dealing with a baby on board long-haul flights.
Hiking with a baby – essential baby gear for hiking before you fit the trails
What to pack in a first aid kit when traveling with a baby and young children
Summer sun protection for infants – dealing with the sun and heat on a family vacation
Ideal travel toys for infants under 18 months . Keeping it simple, what are the best baby toys for airplanes and long journeys?
Is it worth packing a portable high chair ? We look at the pros and cons of this extra piece of baby gear and compare leading brands.

Our complete catalogue of baby advice articles can be found here

Bookmark this page now or save it to pinterest for later.

Baby Travel essentials for every family vacation

Why not check out our pregnancy and baby Pinterest board

Disclosures: We are participants in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of these links, we may receive a small commission – at absolutely no extra cost to you. You can read our full disclosure policy here.

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5 thoughts on “ 10 Baby Travel Essentials For Every Journey + Baby Packing Checklist ”

Great list!! All these products are essential if you’re planning to travel with a baby. Keep blogging I’d love to read more from you!!

This is fabulous. very helpful information for new mums like me.. we are heading to Canada with the baby its his first flight so i need all of this information & the comfy that he can make it cross-country without us losing our minds. thanks for sharing..

While we are beyond the baby stage in our family, this is a well thought out list for those entering into it!

Great list! Those muslin swaddle blankets are seriously the best, and I’m definitely going to need one of those beach shades! Another thing that I always bring is a portable sound machine. My son and I are both really light sleepers, so the sound machine is a life saver when we’re sharing the same space. It also blocks out misc. hotel noise too!

Yes its important to still bring those little extras that help with sleep too.. for several years we’ve taken our Groclocks to help kids work out day vs night – though check wattage if taking anything electronic!!!

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main image of travel with toddler checklist: mom with toddler sitting on suitcase

47 Essential Items for Your Travel with Toddler Checklist

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What should you not forget when traveling with a toddler?

The first time I traveled with my toddler was a weeklong trip to visit family over Thanksgiving. I have never hauled around so much stuff in all my life.

I wrote myself a travel with toddler checklist to make sure I didn’t forget anything. And I decided why should I keep this information to myself? You can get my actual travel with toddler checklist for free below, so you don’t even have to worry about writing down all the essentials.

When I traveled, I had the luxury of taking my car and not going terribly far, so some things on my checklist may not be feasible if you are flying with your toddler. However, everything on the checklist is something you should consider. If you can’t take, find a way to rent it or find something that will work in your situation.

Once you have an organized suitcase, all you have to worry about is making memories with your little one. Happy travels!

“This post may contain affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using this link. Please see my disclosure for more details.”

“As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.”

Travel with Toddler Checklist Essentials

Basic items.

1. Travel Information

If you are traveling internationally, your child will need passport (and this holder will keep it safe). You should also have their birth certificate (or a copy). Double check with the airline before leaving.

And if it will just be you and your toddler, be sure to add a parent’s consent letter (from the other parent) to your travel with toddler checklist. (It may not be required or ever seen, but it’s better to have it, if you should need it.)

2. Diaper bag

When creating your travel with toddler checklist, your diaper bag should be at the top of the list. Use this diaper bag checklist to be sure you have everything you need in there. And use any additional space to pack whatever else will fit.

Related: Non-Traditional Diaper Bags That Are Perfect for Travel

3. Child’s suitcase

I used a child-size suitcase for my toddler when we traveled. Between the suitcase and his diaper bag, I was able to fit everything he needed except some of his toys. And to be honest, that was probably my own fault, as we weren’t traveling far and had the luxury of space, so we weren’t worried about packing light.

4. Diapers and wipes

If you have a toddler who is yet to be potty-trained, make sure you add diapers (or pull-ups) and wipes to your travel with toddler checklist. I think I packed 5 diapers for each day of our trip (and maybe an additional 5, to be on the safe side).

Pay attention to how many diapers your child is wearing a day in the weeks prior to your trip to determine the best number for you. And 3 to 4 packs of wipes should get you through. Although that may seem like a lot, they come in handy for cleanups of all kinds (as you’re well aware).

Parenting tip: If you are flying and checking a car seat, store the extra diapers and wipes in the car seat to save room in your luggage.

5. Diaper cream

Even if your child has never had diaper rash a day in his life, you do not want to miss adding this to your travel with toddler checklist. Long car rides, busy schedules, and heat can all play a part in needing to use some diaper cream , so you don’t want to be stuck without it. And get a travel applicator to keep the cream (and other unspeakables) off your hands.

6. Changing pad

A changing pad is an essential item for a long car trip. And I would suggest taking two. We have a simple one that came with our diaper bag. It’s just a flat, wipeable pad that is perfect for changes in the car or hotel. But I would get another that is fully loaded , so you don’t need to haul your stuffed-to-the-brim diaper bag into restrooms.

Ah! This is always the hardest thing to pack for me. But it can be so easy when you’re packing such small clothes. First, let’s figure out what you need to pack and then we’ll discuss the best ways to pack it.

Outfits. At least one outfit for each day of your trip (don’t forget travel days as well). Two additional “just in case” outfits.
Socks and undies (if you’re potty-trained). A pair for each day. And two extra pair.
Shoes. Two pair, as they get lost easily or may get wet. Also, any special shoes – sandals or boots, depending on your location.
Coat or sweatshirt. In case it rains or gets chilly.
Hat. For those sunny days.

Now that you’ve got it all laid out, what do you do with it?

Large Ziploc bags. Put each day’s outfit in a bag, and you can label the bag with the day, so you don’t even have to think about what you kid will wear each day you’re away. Put the extras in their own bag and label them “just in case.” And keep those bags until the end of your trip cause you never know when you may need a bag along the way.
Packing cubes. These keep your suitcase in order, so things don’t shift and get misplaced. Use one for your clothes, nighttime items, meal items, hygienic items, toys, and safety items so you know right where everything is. They’re also great when you’re packing up to come back home because you can easily see where things go and what’s missing. And they’re perfect if you’re packing your toddler’s items in your own suitcase instead of a separate one.

This also works when you are traveling with more than one kid and want to cut down on the number of suitcases you’re hauling but don’t want the clothes to be a mess. Simply, label the bags with each child’s name and no added stress for you!

Nighttime Essentials

This is always a top priority on my travel with toddler checklist when we go anywhere. Because my kiddo only likes to sleep in his room, in his bed, as dark as can be and his sound machine running. The first time we did a week away from home we actually bought a second crib and took his mattress and sheets, so it felt as much like home as possible.

I’m not saying you need to go to that extreme when traveling with your toddler. But definitely keep your child’s preference in mind. And maybe practice sleeping other places ahead of time.

So, what do you need for toddler bedding essentials? And how do you get it to your destination?

Full size crib, portable crib, or pack and play . You can purchase and travel with either of these items (if you’re driving) or connect with a baby rental company in the area ahead of time to rent those items.
Mattress. If you’re using a crib, make sure a mattress is provided or you have the correct size mattress (as portable cribs fit smaller mattresses).
Sheets. For a crib or pack and play, pack sheets as they may not be provided from a rental company (be sure to check the size).
Bed rail. If you’re little one is sleeping in a bed, this will give you some peace of mind while you’re away and may be available at your hotel or from a rental company.
Nap mat . If all else fails and you don’t want to run the risk of your little one falling out of bed, these are great for travel.

9. Blanket and pillow

Depending on the weather and your child’s preference, take along an appropriate blanket and pillow, if your child is using one. These can be great soothing items when in the car or new places.

10. Pajamas

Two sets of pajamas should be enough when traveling with your toddler. On the off chance they have an accident, you have a spare set. And you can launder the other set, if needed.

If you don’t have access to a washer/dryer or laundromat, you can hand wash your items in a sink using these Tide packs (don’t forget to add them to your travel with toddler checklist).

11. Bedtime toys or books

You know what bedtime toys your kiddo can’t sleep without, so be sure to add them to your travel with toddler checklist. And if reading a book is part of your bedtime routine, don’t forget to pack a favorite nighttime book.

12. Sound machine

Like I said, my little guy uses his sound machine for naps and an hour at bedtime, so you don’t want to forget to pack yours. If you don’t already use a sound machine, this might be the time to try a portable one .

Between long car rides, new sleeping areas, and unfamiliar noises, your little one might need that constant hum to drown out the rest of the world. (Don’t forget to replace the batteries before you leave.)

Related: Best Sound Machines for Toddlers

13. Monitor

Unless you will be sharing a hotel room and have eyes on your kiddo, you’ll want to pack your monitor. I use this one because it’s easy to set up and it’s a hack free system. (Don’t forget to pack the charge cord.)

Mealtime Essentials

14. Highchair or booster seat

This one applies more if you’ve rented a home or are staying with family. I don’t recommend hauling your highchair, if you don’t have the room. You may be able to rent a highchair for the home for the length of your stay or try a portable one .

And at restaurants, you can certainly ask for special seating. And if nothing else, throw down a blanket and have picnics on the floor. Whatever you’re planning, be sure to add it to you travel with toddler checklist, so you don’t forget to pack it.

15. Dinnerware

You certainly want to include toddler plates , bowls, cups and utensils to your travel with toddler checklist especially if you’re staying in a place where you will be cooking your own meals. However, bowls with lids are great for eating on the go. And sippy cups are great in the car or even at restaurants.

Again, if you’re traveling somewhere that you can cook your own meals, don’t forget to pack your kiddo’s favorite foods. Whether it’s toddler meals or pouches for tots , you’ll want to bring something you know think your child may eat.

Snacks are great for on the road, while waiting at a restaurant or to keep your little one occupied while you are checking in. Use a snack catcher for little hands or a bento box to carry a variety of snacks.

Be sure to pack enough bibs to keep those outfits clean. The less laundry you have to do (and stains you have to treat), the better.

19. Disposable placemats

These placemats are perfect to put down when at a restaurant and you don’t want your little one eating off the table. (Sometimes they are questionable.)

Hygiene Essentials

toddler and parent playing at tub faucet

20. Shampoo and body wash

You know which shampoo and body wash works best for your kiddo. So go ahead a pack your favorites, just in case they are not available where you are staying.

And if you’re strapped for space, skip those large bottles and squeeze some in these . (They’re just the right size for air travel.)

21. Towels and washcloths

If you are traveling to a rental home or by RV, you’ll want to include toddler towels and washcloths on your travel with toddler checklist. However, if you are staying in a hotel, you can leave this item at home. (Unless your kiddo has a favorite item.)

Any special items you use to bath your kiddo should be included. A shampoo rinser or splash guard may be an essential item for your child. We still use the squeeze bottle that came with our baby tub (it works perfectly, and I can’t find another one like it).

23. Bath toys

One or two bath toys should be added to your travel with toddler checklist. This is an especially important item if your kiddo isn’t a fan of bath time. Anything that can make your trip feel more like home is likely to ease some fears.

travel with toddler checklist: toddler packing a suitcase

24. Hairbrush

Vacation is the time to be carefree, but you may have a night you want to look your best, so don’t forget to pack your little one’s hairbrush. Otherwise, just let their hair do its thing!

25. Toothbrush and toothpaste

Be sure to pack a toddler toothbrush and toothpaste (no matter how much your little one fights you). It’s important to keep those teeth cleaned.

26. Nail care

Toddler nails can grow pretty quick, so be sure to pack nail clippers (or these scissors ) so you don’t have to worry about your little one scratching his face (or yours). Add a nail file to your travel with toddler packing list so you can keep their nails trimmed and neat while you’re away. I also use a nail brush at bath time to clean under my son’s nails.

27. Potty seat

If you have a potty-training toddler, be sure to pack a potty seat that fits over the adult toilet seats. If you’re traveling by car, you could just go ahead and pack their potty chair for easy access anywhere.

Parenting tip: Place a diaper in the bottom of the potty chair for easy cleanup. Just roll up the diaper and go. (Be sure to pack some odor eliminating bags to keep those diapers until you can dispose of them.)

28. Toilet seat covers

These covers are perfect for your potty-trained toddler. They completely cover public toilet seats, so you don’t have to worry about what their legs or hands are touching.

Playtime Essentials

29. Favorite toys or animals

Can’t go anywhere without those favorite toys or plush animals? Make sure you add them to your travel with toddler checklist. And keep an eye on them while you’re away (they love to go on their own adventures once they leave the house).

If you have a toddler who loves to read, pack a few of their favorite books. These make good distractions on long car rides.

Related: Best Summer Books for Toddlers

31. Coloring items

A coloring book and these washable crayons are a great item for travel (whether your flight is delayed or on a rainy day). I also love these Water Wow! books . They’re perfect for in the car: no mess and no lost crayons.

32. Flash cards

Anything that keeps your toddler busy while traveling is a necessity. And these flash cards are a perfect way to keep your toddler engaged and learning while on the go.

You know your kiddo best, so if a tablet with some kid-friendly apps or their favorite shows is what will keep them entertained best, pack it! Travel days are the hardest for kids with short attention spans (and even adults). Do what you need to do to make your vacation enjoyable.

Safety Items

34. Baby Proofing Items

You’re going to know what works best in your house: outlet plugs , cabinet locks , drawer locks , toilet locks . If you know where you’ll be staying and can plan for this ahead of time, it will add peace of mind.

35. Baby gates or play space

Other items you may be able to rent while you are away are baby gates or a play space . However, if you will be staying with family or friends that may not be an option. So, add it to your travel with toddler checklist, even if that means to inquire about it when booking your trip.

36. Thermometer

Add a thermometer to your travel with toddler checklist in case of illness while you’re away.

37. Medicines

And to combat that illness, I recommend taking some baby Tylenol on your trip (at a minimum). It seems that sickness follows travelers, so you’ll want to be prepared. And you never know when a tooth could be trying to make its way through.

You’ll also want to include any medication specific to your child. Check your bottles for expiration dates and that your refills are full.

38. Sunscreen

Wherever you may be taking your vacation, you’ll want to pack some sunscreen for any time you’ll be spending outside.

Miscellaneous Items

39. Pacifier or teethers

If your little one is still using a pacifier or if they’re teething, be sure to add these very important items to your travel with toddler checklist.

40. Window covers

This is if you have a toddler who does not take naps unless they are in a completely dark room. You may not be lucky enough to have black out curtains or blinds available in the room where your little one will be sleeping. So, be sure he gets to sleep easy with this window film .

41. Stroller

Whether you have a massive stroller or a simple umbrella stroller, you’ll want to pack something for when your little one no longer wants to walk and you’re too tired to carry them (and all their stuff).

42. Car seat

While you’re busy loading your car, don’t forget to leave room for that car seat. And if you plan on flying, it’s a good idea to take your own car seat along with you. You might not always be able to get a rental car or a taxi/rideshare with a car seat.

43. Laundry detergent or Tide packs

If you have access to laundry facilities while you’re away, be sure to pack some of your own laundry detergent, so you’re little one doesn’t develop a rash from a different product.

And if you don’t have access to laundry, use these Tide packs to do laundry in a sink or tub and air dry your clothes. (These are a great item when traveling with a toddler, who may need an extra set of clothes.)

44. Clothes bag for dirty laundry

I always throw a mesh laundry bag in my toddler’s suitcase so I can corral all the dirty clothes. This makes it so much easier if you’re headed to a laundry facility or to just keep the clothes separated until you can wash them at home.

45. Empty bags

I always add empty bags to my travel with toddler checklist (mostly because I will definitely forget them otherwise).

So, what bags should you take?

Wet/dry bags. For wet items you want to keep separate from other items (I’m thinking swimsuit, rain-soaked clothes, soiled clothes).
Odor eliminating bags. Mostly for diaper or potty-training toddlers but even great if you just have something stinky that you need rid of.
Large Ziploc bags. For any miscellaneous items. They’re even good for going on water rides at a theme park to keep your items dry.
Light drawstring bag. To carry anything while you’re out on your adventures: a jacket, drinks, things your little one wants to bring but doesn’t want to carry himself.

46. Beach towel, swimsuit, diapers, hat, beach toys

This one is kind of beach specific, but if you have a little one that loves the water, you’ll want to be prepared for that hotel pool. While you may be able to rent a beach towel or toys, be prepared by adding a swimsuit and swim diapers to your travel with toddler checklist. (That way you know they fit before you leave home, and you’re not wasting vacation time searching for something.)

47. Anything essential for your child

I think I gave you a pretty exhaustive list of items to add to your travel with toddler checklist. However, each kid is different and if there is something you know your child can’t live without, be sure to add it to your own list.

And as a word of advice, keep a close eye on any favorite stuffed animals, blankets, pacifiers, or toys you take with you. When those things go on vacation, they sometimes have a way of not coming back. And I would hate for your whole trip to be ruined because Mr. Squishy is lost somewhere in Ohio.

There you have it: the ultimate packing list for traveling with a toddler. A travel with toddler checklist is a great tool to keep you sane but only if you use it. I also pack the checklist and double check I have everything before returning home. Don’t forget to grab yours below!

Good luck on your journey! And let us know how it went in the comments.

21 Must-Have Baby Long-Haul Flight Essentials (Make It Easier!)

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Home » 21 Must-Have Baby Long-Haul Flight Essentials (Make It Easier!)

Parents sometimes deserve a gold medal for flying with a baby. Traveling with a baby can be challenging, especially over long haul flights. It requires extensive preparation to ensure you and your baby have a comfortable and safe trip.

Trying to puzzle out what to pack and which baby gear to take with when traveling can be overwhelming, especially for a first family vacation abroad. Here are some essentials on what to pack and what you need to fly with a baby for a peaceful flight.

Top 21 Long Haul Flight Baby Travel Checklist Essentials

For those who like to be organized and prepared (don’t we all?), here’s a handy list of everything you should take with you on any trip.

Tip : When creating your baby travel packing list, be sure to add extra supplies in case of any unexpected event.

For Comfort

Your baby’s comfort is the main objective, whether you’re on a short or long haul flight. There are certain essentials to add to your baby travel checklist to ensure a pleasant flight for all.

1) Swaddle Blanket

Small blankets are ideal for wrapping your baby up and keeping those little toes warm. Swaddle sheets are a great choice and perfect for keeping warm and wiping up any messes as well.

They also save space compared to regular blankets because they are so light.

Check out the price for this blanket on Amazon here .

2) Dropper Stopper

Another must-have, unless you enjoy doing your stretches every two seconds to retrieve an item, is a stopper. Any item your baby plays with on the plane is attached to one of your or your partner’s wrists so that it’s never more than 2 feet away.

Check out the price for this dropper stopper on Amazon here .

3) A Few Small Toys

Young children can get somewhat cranky while traveling for long periods. A collection of airplane toys is usually the last thing we cram into the bag. So they’re easy to grab when needed.

Stuffed animals, music toys, teether blankie, teething keys; take whatever is compact and is loved deeply by your little one. It is best to take a few different options to keep the little one occupied.

4) A Sky Mattress

A fantastic new product from SkyBaby is the travel mattress. It enables young babies to sleep snug on your lap during a flight. There’s a loop underneath the bed that attaches to the lap belt to keep your baby secured.

This means a peaceful sleep for the baby and minimal discomfort for mom or dad.

Check out the price for this baby mattress on Amazon here .

5) Pacifier and Clip

If your baby uses a pacifier, it may come in really handy while on a long-haul flight. A clip attached to your baby’s jammies will ensure the pacifier is not spat out onto the dirty airplane floor, and then lost forever.

Check the price for this pacifier with a clip on Amazon here .

6) Extra pair of jammies

We usually always pack in an extra pair of pajamas for the plane.

Check out the price for these pyjamas on Amazon now .

Firstly, they’re comfortable. The best ones come with attached booties to keep their feet warm. Plus, it’s much easier to change a diaper in an airplane bathroom if all you have to undo is a few buttons. Rather than need to pull pants off and back on.

Taking an extra pair is crucial, as well. If there’s a messy accident on the plane (most likely to happen), you will definitely want a backup.

7) An airplane travel bassinet

Not even the most doting parents want to hold their baby for an 8-hour trip. For a long haul flight, parents can request a free bassinet (cot) for the baby to sleep in.

Note: It’s best to request a bassinet early as most planes usually only offer one per plane. Also, there is a limited number of seats to accommodate this space.

For Diapering

On any flight, diapering is a challenging task. To get the job done quickly and cleanly, ensure you have the right tools. To make life even more convenient, find yourself the best diaper bag possible.

Check out our favorite diaper bag here!

When you’re getting ready for a long flight, you should pack a diaper in for each hour you’ll be in transit – and some extras. A rule of thumb when packing is to add one and a half times more than what you think you’ll need for the trip.

Check out the price for these diapers on Amazon here .

9) Diaper rash cream

Diaper rash cream comes in small travel-sized versions and should be a staple in your carry-on.

Check out the price for this diaper rash cream on Amazon now .

10) Dirty diaper bags

These dirty diaper bags are fantastic for bagging up smelly diapers on the plane. They are also great to have on hand for any additional trash. Take a couple of these with you at a time instead of taking the whole dispenser – this will save you room.

Check out the price for these diaper disposal bags on Amazon now .

Tip : Use a waterproof-lined diaper bag with a shoulder strap.

11) Travel case wipes

Wipes are great to carry with you, especially during the awkward diaper changes on a long flight. A travel case is great to use. It allows you to refill the wipes to last you a full 8-hour day.

Check out these travel diaper wipes case on Amazon now!

Personal Health & Hygiene

Keeping your baby healthy is of the utmost importance. Here are some baby bag must-haves to ensure your infant is hearty and happy.

12) Nail clipper

The nail clipper is a baby bag foremost that should be carried with you at all times. You would never want your little one cutting themselves with long nails.

Check out the price for these baby nail clippers on Amazon here .

13) Infant Tylenol and Ibuprofen

Infant Tylenol should be packed just in case of emergencies. Keep this in small measures with your other travel-sized liquids.

Ibuprofen sachets come in handy in 5ml sizes and are available from most supermarkets and chemists.

Check out the price for this Infant Tylenol Medicine on Amazon now .

14) Comb or brush

Yet another baby bag staple, though not so exciting. Keep the whole family looking presentable for that ‘just landed’ photo. A soft brush for baby is convenient and always comes in handy.

Check out the price for this baby hairbrush on Amazon here .

15) Antibacterial wipes

Keep antibacterial wipes on you to wash down any grimy tray tables, sticky hands, etc. Wet Ones are perfect for sensitive skin and they’re safe to use on infants.

Check out the price for these wet wipes on Amazon here .

16) Nose Frida – the snot sucker

You can never tell when your child will need a good old nose suck. It’s not the most important, or exciting item, but it is another baby bag essential.

Check out the price for this Nose Frida on Amazon here .

Feeding Time Must-Haves

With any human being on the planet, traveling with comfort food is essential, especially with your infant – through with a baby, it can be a messy job!

Comfort food can make a fussy baby a very happy one in a few seconds. Pack in these handy items to keep feeding time simple and stress-free.

17) Extra bibs

A bib is a great device when you’re trying to feed your baby. The bumkins SuperBib is terrific to use. It’s waterproof, making it easy to wipe off any spills. It folds into a small pouch for storing and is big enough to keep an extra spoon there when feeding.

Check out the price for this baby bib on Amazon here .

18) An extra bottle

For those formula feeding , an extra bottle is a lifesaver. Fill it up with the exact amount of water and then just keep it handy at airport security.

Check out the price for this baby bottle on Amazon here .

This will help if one is dirty and you need an emergency comfort feed.

19) Spoon with a travel case

Take a soft baby spoon with a travel case. There’s a great one from Oxo that comes with both the travel spoon and case. During a flight, you would certainly want a place to put the dirty spoon, and that’s where a case comes in.

Check out the price for this infant feeding spoon on Amazon here .

20) Formula dispenser

The formula dispenser is yet another staple on your baby packing list. It’s an absolute lifesaver, especially when you’re trying to balance a baby and mixing up a bottle while flying 35,000 feet in the air.

Check out the price for this baby formula dispenser on Amazon here .

21) Baby milk and food

You are allowed to take baby food and milk onboard. If it is for the duration of the flight, it may be over 100ml. This includes; breastfeeding or formula milk , baby food in packaging, and sterilized water.

Check out the price for this infant formula on Amazon here .

A food squeeze pouch makes feeding solids during a flight much more manageable. Instead of buying plastic jars of food, taking up much-needed room in your travel bag, the pouch is easy to tuck into a side pocket and is a lot more compact.

Besides the vital foods, bring your baby’s favorite snacks, such as crackers, fruit, puffs, or cereal, to keep them happy.

Final Thoughts about Your Baby Travel Essentials

When traveling with a baby, keep in mind that most major international airlines have a limited supply of baby items such as formula milk, nappies, baby food, etc. Also, be prepared for unexpected stopovers or flight delays.

Traveling with and packing for a baby can be tricky. Fitting the stroller, the right FAA-approved infant car seat , toys, teddies, and clothes can seem impossible. But exploring the world with your little one makes it all worth it. And, it gets easier as they grow.

One thing you can have some sort of control over is your carry on. Take advantage of that, and get ready for a fun, exciting flight with your little nugget.

Andrzej Ejmont

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Packing Lists

The Ultimate Packing List for Flying With Kids

From activity books to wipes galore, everything you need for your next flight with kids.

Alesandra Dubin is an LA-based lifestyle writer and editor. As a veteran digital journalist, she's covered travel, food, parenting, and more for over 15 years. Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy, and countless other online and print outlets. An avid traveler, she often trots the globe with her husband and their twins. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter at @alicedubin. Alesandra holds a master's degree in journalism with an emphasis on cultural reporting and criticism from NYU, and a bachelor's degree from UC Berkeley.

In This Article

Packing Checklist

Tips for Packing

Frequently asked questions.

Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Reese Herrington

The trick to flying with young kids? Careful preparation. Our writer has traveled the world with twins, and she knows that flying with children can be miserable if you don't bring the right items on board with you. But with the right tools, a flight with your youngsters is not just feasible but can even be fun. We've rounded up all the supplies you’ll need for feeding, cleaning, soothing, and entertaining little ones — plus transporting all that cargo. So use this guide to prepare properly for your next family flight .

Packing Checklist for Flying With Kids

We've broken down all categories of things you’ll need to pack when flying with children and included the exact items we’d recommend.

Read more about our specific recommendations below and start your own checklist, too.

Entertainment

Best Tablet: Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Tablet
Best Headphones: Puro Sound Labs BT2200s Kids’ Bluetooth Headphones
Best Tech Stand: Airglo Cell Phone and Tablet Holder
Best Coloring Book: Unicorn Imagine Ink Magic Ink Book
Best Book: "Where’s Waldo? The Fantastic Journey"
Best Activity Book: On the Plane Activity Book
Best Craft: Purple Ladybug Wax Craft Sticks
Best Game: Magnetic Travel Games
Best Set: Mini Voyager 4-7 Jetsetter Travel Kit
Best Sound Machine: Frida Baby Portable 2-in-1 Sound Machine
Best Pillow and Blanket: Roamwild Kids Travel Pillow and Travel Blanket Set
Best Portable Bed: Flyaway Kids Bed

Food and Drink

Best Reusable Water Bottle: Yeti 12-ounce Kids Water Bottle
Best Lollipops: Ring Pops (20 Count)
Best Snacks: Healthy Snacks Variety Pack
Best Snack Activity: Fred Match Up Memory Snack Tray
Best Changing Pad: SkipHop Portable Baby Changing Pad
Best Multi-purpose Wipes: Hello Bello Unscented Baby Wipes
Best Face Wipes: Baby Wipes by Boogie Wipes
Best Surface Wipes: Lysol Disinfecting Surface Wipes
Best Hand Sanitizer: Kinia 8-pack Hand Sanitizer Holders
Best Diaper Bag: Dagne Dover Indi Diaper Backpack
Best Crossbody Bag: Kibou Vegan Leather Fanny Pack Diaper Bag
Best Kids Backpack: Herschel Backpack Kids 9L
Best Wheeled Backpack: Jansport Driver 8 Backpack
Best Carry-on Suitcase: Rockland London Hardside 20-inch Spinner
Best Ride-on Suitcase: Jetkids by Stokke Bedbox 19-inch Ride-on Carry-on

Accessories

Best Luggage Trackers: Apple AirTags
Best First Aid Kit: PreparaKit Take Along First-aid Kit
Best Storage Bags: Hefty Slider Storage Bags

T+L's Top Picks and Tips

Entertainment.

Entertaining kids is absolutely critical to keeping the peace on any flight. For babies and younger kids, one rule of thumb is to think of entertainment in 15-minute increments; bring enough options to rotate activities often. For older or generally tech-minded kids? Well, the magic power of screens sure comes in handy.

Best Tablet

Amazon fire hd 10 kids edition.

Why We Love It: This tablet has plenty of storage space and comes in a virtually indestructible case.

What to Consider: This isn’t as full-featured as, say, an iPad, so kids will outgrow it eventually.

Tablets are great for long-stretch occupation — just be sure to download your child's favorite shows and movies ahead of time rather than relying on airplane wifi to stream. Amazon’s Fire for kids simpler and less expensive than standard adult versions, and it comes with an indestructible, kid-friendly case with a stand. The Fire HD 10 also includes a two-year guarantee and a yearlong subscription to Amazon Kids+. We find this to be a great investment to keep children from ages 3 to 5 occupied.

Best Headphones

Puro sound labs bt2200s volume limited kids headphones.

Why We Love It: These Bluetooth headphones have a safe maximum volume for kids.

What to Consider: They are pricier than some alternative kids' headphones.

In the same way that you’ll likely lean hard on that tablet to keep kids occupied, you'll depend on quality kids' headphones to go with it. This compact but powerful pair is made to protect early hearing damage by following the World Health Organization’s recommendation of an 85dB-limited volume range. The Bluetooth capability has a 30-foot range of movement so the child can feel free to move about the cabin, too.The lightweight, durable headphones come in nine fun colors.

Best Tech Stand

Airglo airplane travel essentials.

Why We Love It: This universal tech holder is a great hands-free solution for use in planes, cars, and more.

What to Consider: It might not be the most secure stand for larger phones or tablets.

This nifty gadget is the brainchild of a flight attendant who saw a need for a phone stand that would allow passengers to watch movies and TV shows on long flights. Now kids can also watch on your devices hands-free with this tool that fits any brand’s gadgets. It folds fairly flat when not in use, and this lightweight stand could also be repurposed to hang a bag on a chair or tray table.

Best Coloring Book

Bendon unicorn imagine ink magic ink book.

Why We Love It: This compact book is small, self-contained, and mess-free.

What to Consider: The cover is slightly misleading: This book isn’t actually full of unicorn themes.

These invisible ink activity books are self-contained — no crayon collection to roll under plane seats — and guaranteed mess-free. Kids just use the Imagine Ink marker to stay busy with 16 pages of games, all in a portable-size book just right for tossing in a travel bag. We've found invisible ink books particularly effective for children aged 3 to 6.

Where's Waldo? The Fantastic Journey Paperback

Why We Love It: This book is challenging for kids of all ages (including pre-readers) and delivers on a healthy dose of nostalgia for parents as well.

What to Consider: A book will never be as tempting as a tablet for tech-addled kids.

Books that challenge little ones keep them entertained. And Where’s Waldo does just that — even for kids who aren’t reading yet. The paperback book is not only small and lightweight for travel, but its journey motif fits in nicely with vacation adventures, too.

Best Activity Book

On the plane activity book.

Why We Love It: This lightweight book gets kids excited about their flight, with plane-themed games and activities.

What to Consider: You’ll need to bring and keep track of your own coloring implements.

Engage kids in the excitement of travel with this activity book that has an airplane journey theme. Think: spot the identical pilots on their way through the airport, true-or-false airplane and flying facts, and more. Just pack a pencil (or probably two).

Purple Ladybug Wax Craft Sticks for Kids

Why We Love It: This generously stocked wax stick kit has plenty of sticks to share between or among siblings.

What to Consider: You'll probably leave some sticks on the floor and in the seats.

This set of wax craft sticks will be a novelty for most kids, and waxy sticks won’t roll away as easily as crayons or markers. This kit comes with 300 sticks in 15 colors and two different lengths, plenty for multiple siblings to have a go. Kids can endlessly shape and reshape them with no noise and no mess.

The Purple Cow Magnetic Animal Homes Matching Puzzle

Why We Love It: Magnetic pieces keep this tin game set together for play on the go.

What to Consider: Pieces are only magnetic on one side.

Nothing’s more frustrating than trying to travel with a game that’s rendered immediately useless after some essential piece slides irretrievably under an airplane or car seat. This compact game set provides a frustration-free alternative with magnets that keep everything together. We recommend it for children over 2.

Mini Voyager 4-7y Jetsetter Travel Kit

Mini Voyage

Why We Love It: This kit combines a customized array of kids entertainment items into one grab-and-go bundle.

What to Consider: You may save money by finding and buying all of these items separately (if you have the time and inclination).

If creating a DIY bag of entertainment ideas for every flight seems like a lot of work, buy this kit, which compiles it all for you in one convenient bundle. Choose from multiple items to build your own customized pack based on your kid’s interests and ages, including stickers, books, toys, and games.

When kids don’t get adequate rest, the whole thing goes off the rails in a hurry — for everyone. In addition to comfy clothes and layers, these packable items help keep children warm, soothed, and rested on the plane.

Best Sound Machine

Fridababy 2-in-1 portable sound machine.

Why We Love It: This portable sound machine also has a nightlight, and it hooks onto a tray table hinge or arm rest.

What to Consider: It can be hard to differentiate the buttons in the dark.

This little machine produces five soothing sounds for kids, including shushing and a heartbeat. It has an adjustable strap, so you can hook it onto an arm rest or or tray table hinge, or a car seat or stroller once off the plane. During your flight, just but be mindful of using anything beyond pink noise in flight out of respect to your fellow passengers. Conveniently, it also has a nightlight with three glow levels which could help you locate items in a dimmed cabin, too.

Best Pillow and Blanket

Roamwild kids travel pillow.

Why We Love It: This cute and cuddly set is a pillow, blanket, and toy all in one.

What to Consider: While the sleeve-style cover adds comfort to an armrest, it’s still an armrest — so it may be too firm for some kids’ tastes.

A travel pillow and blanket are always useful tools in keeping children cozy for long flights. This one has a niche feature: After you remove the blanket, the sleeve-style toy slides over any armrest to transform it into a kids’ pillow. So, it’s a penguin toy, a comfy pillow, and a warm blanket, all in one cute and compact package.

Best Portable Bed

Flyaway kids bed.

Why We Love It: Not just a place to sleep, this comfy surface also keeps toys and accessories from rolling onto the floor.

What to Consider: You’ll be happy to have it on the plane, but then you’ll be committed to traveling with it for the duration of your trip.

When kids are overtired, everyone loses. And a tool like this can be just the ticket for helping them sleep on long flights. The bed for babies, toddlers, and little kids inflates in 90 seconds and deflates quickly, too. It comes in a carry bag with a pump included, and it can be wiped clean.

When it comes to traveling with kids, you’ll always need more snacks than you think. Think you’ve packed enough? Great, now double it. And don’t forget a refillable water bottle to kep your kiddo hydrated.

Best Reusable Water Bottle

Yeti rambler jr. kids bottle.

Why We Love It: This water bottle is impressively leakproof and made to withstand a beating.

What to Consider: The bottle itself is heavy, especially compared to its relatively small 12-ounce payload.

Staying hydrated with kids while traveling is a must, and this water bottle means business. The Yeti is durable, spill proof, and double-wall insulated to keep drinks cold (or warm) for hours. Plus, a straw cap makes it easy for kids to sip on the go.

Best Lollipops

Ring pop individually wrapped bulk lollipop variety party pack.

Why We Love It: It acts as both a snack and a bribe — er, reward , that is — and can help reduce ear discomfort on planes.

What to Consider: Nope, there’s no nutritional value here!

Lollipops and their ilk are a multifunction tool for traveling with kids: It’s a snack! It’s a reward! It keeps them busy! And the act of swallowing while sucking on them can also ease ear pressure on takeoff and landing. Even better, Ring Pops are a smart, toy-like alternative to stick lollies for hands-free holding.

Best Snacks

Stuff your sack healthy snacks variety pack organic care package.

Why We Love It: This variety pack includes 18 different flavors to keep kids interested.

What to Consider: The packaged snacks may be organic, but they are still processed food.

Having kids means having snacks handy at all times; traveling makes it all the more necessary to keep kids fed and comfortable to combat whining. This variety pack includes 25 organic packaged snacks from 19 different brands; 18 different flavors keep them intrigued as little surprises unfold throughout a long journey.

Best Snack Activity

Fred match up memory snack tray.

Why We Love It: Dispensing snacks this way keeps the experience fun for kids — and prolongs the process to keep them busy, too.

What to Consider: Make sure your child is able to push buttons.

Snacks serve two important functions: nutrition and amusement. For that reason, try to prolong these food breaks as a way to keep kids busy and amused. Try putting different snacks into this fun tray with compartments; it’s fun for littles to discover treats behind each door, and it adds time to the whole process. For slightly older toddlers and children, you can make a memory game out of it.

Keeping kids clean — and cleaning up after them — has long been a top concern among traveling parents. A global pandemic only underscored the importance of traveling with wipes and sanitizer.

Best Changing Pad

Skip hop pronto changing station.

Why We Love It: When you travel with your own changing pad, you’re guaranteed a non-public surface no matter where you are.

What to Consider: A separate changing pad may not be necessary if you have a diaper bag that comes with one.

Change a diaper on the go without fear of exposing baby to gross, public surfaces. This changing pad takes the form of a clutch, with a large mesh pocket that holds four diapers and accessories, plus a translucent wipes case. A front zipper pocket holds essentials like keys and cash. Drop it in any bag, or clip it on a travel stroller or luggage handle instead.

Best Multi-purpose Wipes

Hello bello unscented baby wipes.

Why We Love It: You can use these extra-soft baby wipes on just about everything.

What to Consider: These full-size packs aren’t tiny.

Is there nothing a baby wipe can't do? From diaper changes to on-the-go hand cleaning to wiping up half-eaten miscellany, traveling with baby wipes is a must. These are super soft with aloe and chamomile extract — and no alcohol, synthetic fragrances, phthalates, or parabens.

Best Face Wipes

Boogie wipes.

Why We Love It: These hypoallergenic, ultra-soft saline wipes are great for cleaning snotty faces and even clearing airways.

What to Consider: If you don’t want to pack a bag full of different wipe options, this specialty product might be the first to go.

With kids, runny noses are just about guaranteed for chunks of the year, and they're even more likely when you add in the fatigue and exposure from traveling. These hypoallergenic and alcohol-free cloths are designed expressly for nose-wiping, with gentle saline, vitamin E, aloe, and chamomile to soothe sensitive skin.

Best Surface Wipes

Lysol disinfecting wipes to-go pack.

Why We Love It: You’ll find tons of uses for this travel-sized package of wipes when traveling through public spaces with (or without) kids.

What to Consider: These are ideal for surfaces, but they are not for use on kids’ faces.

These germ-busting wipes are ideal for cleaning nonporous surfaces like a tray tables or seatback entertainment screens, and they're a must for both safety and peace of mind when traveling with littles known to touch everything.

Best Hand Sanitizer

Kinia 8 pack empty mixed kids hand sanitizer.

Why We Love It: These cute and colorful hand sanitizer holders keep gel easy to access for frequent cleanups.

What to Consider: Be advised these containers come empty, so you’ll need to fill with your favorite brand.

In addition to wipes, hand sanitizer is a must for quick cleaning on the go. Keep your gel handy by filling these colorful jelly wrap silicone carriers. The 1-ounce, flip-top-cap bottles attach with adjustable silicone cords to backpacks, diaper bags, and just about anywhere else.

Depending on kids’ ages and sizes, they may be candidates to tote their own cargo. Backpacks, rolling bags, and even ride-on options help keep the process moving smoothly. Adults, on the other hand, can benefit from bags that keep hands free in case they need to carry tired children or hold little hands along the way.

Best Diaper Bag

Dagne dover indi diaper backpack.

Why We Love It: This bag is sleek, chic, and unisex, and it delivers on functionality with tons of specialized compartments.

What to Consider: It's spacious and deep, so smaller items can be hard to spot in a hurry (and when are you not in a hurry when traveling with kids?).

Traveling with kids means prioritizing performance in a diaper bag ; we're huge fans of Dagne Dover because the brand fuses functionality with style so well. Done in chic, 100-percent vegan neoprene, this backpack-style diaper bag also clips to a stroller upon arrival. It includes a mini changing mat and extra pouches, with an extra zipper opening for easy access to wipes.

Best Crossbody Bag

Kibou diaper bag.

Why We Love It: This crossbody doubles as a compact diaper bag for hands-free convenience.

What to Consider: A diaper bag this small obviously isn’t a feasible option for longer outings or multiple babies, so consider your usage.

This vegan-leather waist pack, which extends into a crossbody, is a great choice for traveling through airports and wearing on the plane. The ultra-compact diaper bag has tons of features so you can travel hands free: A built-in waterproof pocket holds 20 wipes wet for up to a week, a detachable changing pad unfolds from the back flap, a hook holds a pacifier or key, slots secure credit cards or cash, and the nylon lining is wipeable and stain resistant. It's even possible to use this as a regular bag once your little ones are out of diapers, too.

Best Kids Backpack

Herschel heritage backpack | kids.

Why We Love It: Encouraging kids to carry their own backpack builds independence while keeping the family’s cargo moving.

What to Consider: This kid-size version is best for ages 3 to 7; move up to youth size for older kids.

Herschel has just the right size backpack for children preschool age and up to carry their own gear — both to help out the family and to develop a bit of self reliance. This kid-proportioned version is just 13 inches high and has a removable sternum support strap. The next size up is right for youths ages 8 to 12 and, at 15 inches high, it also features a 13-inch laptop or tablet sleeve.

Best Wheeled Backpack

Jansport driver 8 core series wheeled backpack.

Why We Love It: A rolling backpack keeps the weight off kids’ backs and holds a solid amount of cargo.

What to Consider: This well-equipped pack is substantially sized and a better bet for grade school ages and up.

This 21-inch rolling backpack is packed with features for bigger kids. It has two spacious main compartments plus skate wheels and a telescoping handle for a smooth ride. An exterior mesh bottle pocket stretches to fit large bottles, and a 15-inch laptop sleeve has a buckle to keep technology extra secure. It comes in an array of solid colors and appealing prints, and you can easily tuck away the shoulder straps when not in use.

Best Kids' Carry-on Suitcase

Rockland london hardside spinner wheel luggage carry-on.

Why We Love It: Kids can grow with this 20-inch spinner, small enough to manage but large enough to hold proper cargo.

What to Consider: A 20-inch spinner will be too large for preschoolers to easily maneuver.

When it comes to kids’ roller bags, we advocate for choosing a piece small enough for them to manage but large enough to hold a meaningful amount of cargo. To be worthwhile, it must be an efficient use of hands and bin space, not just a character-shaped gimmick that holds very little. Our writer's twins have these durable hardside cases, which they’ve carried independently since age 6 (going on three years and many miles and still going!).

Best Ride-on Suitcase

stokke jetkids bedbox.

Why We Love It: This wheeled ride-on suitcase transforms into a leg rest or bed in flight.

What to Consider: Not all carriers permit the use of items like these as leg rests while in the air.

This ride-on rolling suitcase has hidden talents beyond scooting through the airport: It transforms into a leg rest, or an in-plane bed, to help keep kids comfy and rested during the flight, too. Bonus: It even includes two sheets of stickers for kids to personalize their own luggage.

It may seem overwhelming to keep track of all the things you need to bring, especially after you've left home. GPS trackers can be lifesavers for locating your items during the journey, and a small first aid kit and plastic slider bags prepare for just-in-case moments and help clean up mid-flight messes, too.

Best Luggage Tracker

Apple airtag 4-pack.

Why We Love It: Track your kids’ stuff — or even your kids themselves — amid hectic environments like airports.

What to Consider: These tiny trackers are made to interface with Apple devices only.

In crowded, chaotic environments — especially when the dependability of baggage handling could use improvement — a small GPS tracking device tucked into a bag can make all the difference in reuniting with it after, say, a kid blithely walks away from their belongings after being distracted by a candy display. You can also use these tags on children themselves, with an array of specialty wristbands, keychains, and necklaces designed to incorporate the tags for wearability.

Best First Aid Kit

Preparakit small compact first aid kit for kids.

Why We Love It: This well-stocked first aid kit covers the basics in a compact, highly portable package.

What to Consider: You can save money if you choose to compile your own kit with customized supplies.

This TSA-approved mini first aid kit contains all the essentials for babies and toddlers in a package just about the size of a wallet. The curated array of 50 items includes bandages, gauze, tape, scissors, thermometer strips, and more. There’s also additional room to add your own prescription or over-the-counter medication.

Best Storage Bags

Hefty slider storage bags.

Why We Love It: They have a stand-up bottom for convenience.

What to Consider: They're less durable than sturdier bags made for freezer storage,

There are so many uses for slider storage bags while flying with kids: Use them within backpacks to organize cables, toys, and snacks. Or, use them to separate wet or soiled items, and to collect trash tidily. Plus, they’re super lightweight and waterproof.

Prioritize new or special items

When it comes to keeping kids entertained during a long flight, they’re most likely to stay engaged when playing with something that is new to them. Now’s the time to choose new or rarely used games, books, toys, and technology to pack in your kit for maximum novelty value.

Consider portability

You may be accustomed to your full arsenal of supplies at home, but carefully consider how portable and necessary each of these items is before committing to travel with it. Luggage fees add up, arms and hands quickly fill, and only the truly portable items are usually worthwhile to bring along on travels with kids.

Children over the age of two must have their own ticket, and therefore are entitled to the same baggage privileges of other ticketed passengers in the category. Check your airline and ticket class for the specific baggage allowances.

Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby or toddler food (including purée pouches) in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces are allowed in carry-on baggage, according to the TSA regulations ; these are considered medically necessary liquids. You will have to take these items out of your carry-on bag to be screened separately, so bear that in mind when you're packing to fly with your baby .

The same permission applies to breast milk and formula cooling accessories, like ice packs and freezer packs.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Alesandra Dubin is a career travel and lifestyle writer and a frequent traveler. She’s also a twin mom with plenty of hard-earned experience from world travels with kids.

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Flying With an Infant: My Five-Hour Flight With an 8-Month Old

November 23, 2021

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Because of points and miles, my infant has been on more flights in his first 8 months of life than I had in my first 18 years. But flying with an infant isn’t for the faint of heart.

Recently, I returned from a trip to Phoenix, AZ where he flew on a 5-hour continuous flight. In this article, we’ll give those flying with infants some tips and tricks from my experience of what worked, and what didn’t.

Lap Children vs. Car Seat

The first decision you’ll have to make when flying with an infant is whether you will buy them their own seat and fly them in an FAA approved car seat or fly them as a lap infant. Many airlines do not charge for a lap infant, or charge a heavily discounted ticket price.

However, on aircraft that have the standard three seat to a row layout, this puts you in the uncomfortable position of flying with a stranger next to your potentially fussy infant.

From my experience, most children don’t sit quietly in their car seat while gazing into their parent’s eyes who won’t pick them up. The roar of a jet engine just isn’t the same as the lulling sound of tires on the pavement in a car. Most parents I see that plan on strapping their kids in, end up taking them out at some point in the flight. However, buying an infant seat can provide you the space to ‘own’ an entire row on an aircraft which can make your flight experience a little more manageable.

When flying with an infant we have always chosen to fly them as a lap infant.

Going Through Security With an Infant

If you are planning on flying with an infant, you have a lot more to juggle. You likely have extra luggage, a ‘Pack n’ Play’ and car seat for your infant, plus you are short at least one hand, either carrying or strollering the infant into the airport.

We prefer to check as many of the infant items we can. While most airlines will allow you to gate check strollers and car seats, I find navigating airports with these items cumbersome. We use a stroller gate check bag that we pack our car seats in and check that bag along with our normal luggage. My wife or I will carry the infant with a baby harness. This way, we are hands free through the airport.

Going through security wearing a child is fairly straightforward. The only difference is, the TSA agent will test your hands to see if you’ve been handling explosives. Once my wife had to undergo a thorough screening because the machine was detecting traces of explosives (which she doesn’t handle on a regular basis.)

The only thing we could figure is that some of the cleaning solutions she had used the day before were triggering the device. We don’t clean the bathroom the day before a flight anymore!

If you are using a stroller to navigate the airport, security will need to inspect the stroller.

Take Off While Flying With an Infant

Most airlines allow for pre-boarding for families with infants (children under 2). While some airlines make a formal announcement, others leave it up to the passenger to indicate that they’d like to be pre-boarded. Check in with your gate agent and let them know you have an infant and ask for early boarding.

Getting your child to sleep while in the air is key. Especially over a four plus hour flight, a cranky kid is a crying kid which leads to a cranky cabin. It’s especially tempting to try and coax your child to sleep just before take-off. In my experience, however, the best time to get your kid asleep isn’t before take-off or immediately after.

First, you’ll want to help your infant relieve the air pressure in their ears from the altitude change.

Infants don’t know how to do this on their own, so planning on feeding them on your altitude climb will help work the muscles necessary to ‘pop’ their ears as your altitude increases. This way they have full tummies and without ear pain once you’ve reached flight-height.

Of course, if it’s not time to feed them, giving them a pacifier or even letting them suck on your finger can simulate the action that will allow for air pressure to release in their sinuses.

Keeping Your Infant Occupied in Air

It would be nice if while flying with an infant he could just sleep the whole five-hour flight. But as parents, you know that this is unlikely. So, you’ll have to keep them occupied. This can be a full-time job on the ground, and even more so in the air. We find it helpful to rotate activities every 30-minute or so. This keeps us from randomly attempting things to interest him the entire trip.

Finger foods and snacks keep everyone happy on a plane, but it also gives your child something to do. My wife, who is something of an inspector gadget when it comes to baby equipment, found these little food trays (pictured) that fit perfectly on the seat back tray on planes.

Suction cups on the bottom keep it steady to the tray and the dividers help give our child something to pick the food up against. My infant would eat forever. On our way to Phoenix, we might have overdone the snacks since we let him eat a lot and we paid for it later on in the day.

Time Occupied: 20 minutes

Southwest in-flight entertainment wasn’t quite up to speed for our 8-month-old. But once again, my wife came prepared. She’s no rookie!

We always travel with a foldable portable DVD player that the kids can watch their favorite movies on. Baby Einstein films are a favorite for our infants since they engage children with lots of colors and puppets, but avoid plot lines and dialogue that would bore a child his age. Sound is also not necessary to hold his attention which is useful since he’s too young to wear headphones. On the way back we left this critical device in the rental car. We attempted to download some videos on our phones before take-off, but they weren’t his familiar shows and didn’t hold his attention nearly as well.

Time Occupied: 20-30 mins

My 8-month-old enjoyed looking out the window, holding cups, tearing up napkins and playing peek-a-boo with Mom or Dad. You can only play so many rounds of peek-a boo before you tire out. Taking a slow walk down the aisle of the plane also is a good way to keep your child occupied, and many of the passengers enjoyed meeting him. Just make sure you avoid doing it while flight attendants are doing drink service or the seat-belt sign is on.

Time Occupied: 30-40 minutes

Often the first few minutes of putting my infant to sleep is a battle of wills. Wrestling your infant to sleep while a business traveler looks on over your shoulder isn’t fun for anybody. Find as comfortable a position you can, and wait to attempt putting your child to sleep until they are very tired. We chose to sit on the window and middle seat so that we wouldn’t have to get up if someone in our row needed to use the restroom.

Time Occupied: 45 minutes- 1 hour

That’s around two and a half hours. We repeated the cycle and finally landed. Our seat mate told us that “he did well” which was generous of him to say. But our baby got restless several times and we had to deal with flying with a crying infant.

When Your Infant Cries

A crying baby is just part of raising kids, but there’s little more embarrassing than 200 heads watching you try to console your upset infant.

When flying with an infant that is crying remember that many people on the plane have been there. It’s easy to feel like a bad parent, like you’re disrupting the entire flight, or that you’re causing a scene. A lot of this is simply self-consciousness.

If you are a parent, you know the routine, check the main things; tired, hungry, diaper. There is simply no good way to change a diaper on a plane. The only way I know is to change the child on your lap and keep a couple grocery sacks or Ziploc bags on your carry-on in order to seal the spent diaper.

If none of the big three seem to be wrong and the seatbelt sign is off, I suggest going for a slow walk down the aisle.

Just remember: You’re a good parent and five-hour flights are hard on everyone.

Final Thoughts

Flying with an infant can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to keep you from traveling. Set reasonable expectations for yourself. You aren’t going to finish a novel or get any work done while your infant is on the plane. Keep snacks and entertainment handy and watch for signs of sleepiness. Remember many of the people on board have raised children of their own, most people are more patient than you expect.

Parenting is work so try not to plan any additional travel or plans the day you arrive at your destination.

Settle into your lodging and rest. You earned it.

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The Ultimate List of Toddler Travel Essentials (+Toddler Packing List!)

This page may contain affiliate links, which means that we may earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

Traveling with a toddler is not the easiest of feats, but it can be made a lot easier by bringing a few toddler travel essentials. These are items that make traveling with a toddler go much more smoothly for everyone in your travel group.

On our many trips with our toddlers, we’ve come to learn that there are some items that we just can’t do without when traveling with young kids. And others that we can ditch to save the luggage space…

In this article, we’ve included detailed descriptions of the toddler travel essentials that you won’t want to forget on your trip. We’ve also provided a toddler travel packing list to make packing for your child that much easier! Read on for everything you need to bring for a successful trip with a toddler.

If you’re planning on visiting the beach, check out our article on the beach essential for toddlers .

Toddler Travel Essentials

Getting around

These are a few essential items that make getting around with your toddler a lot easier during travel.

Toddler carrier

When traveling with a toddler, a carrier is at the top of my list of toddler travel essentials.

Toddler carriers can make life so much easier when traveling. They allow you to easily take your child places that are less stroller friendly and provide a perfect place for nursing (if your child is breastfeeding) and napping on the go. They’re also great for containing toddlers in places that might not be safe for them to roam free (say at the top of a bell tower or the edge of the grand canyon).

We’ve carried our toddlers in carriers all over the world and find it to be one of the easiest ways to travel with a toddler.

To find the best carrier for your child, see this article on the best toddler carriers for travel .

A stroller may or may not be a necessity for your trip, depending on what kind of trip you’re taking. We’ve taken trips with just a toddler carrier and others with both a carrier and a stroller (I always bring a carrier, even if I’m bringing a stroller).

Strollers can be very useful for navigating the airport with a toddler and for trips where you’ll be visiting stroller-accessible locations. They’re nice to have along to give you a break from having to carry your child all the time (or chase them down constantly).

We love our gb Pockit for travel. It’s the most compact strollers out there and folds down small enough to fit into the overhead bit or under your seat on the airplane. Be sure to see our full gb Pockit stroller review .

Travel car seat

A car seat is typically going to be one of your toddler travel essentials, barring a few locations where you can get by just using public transportation. But if you’re planning on getting around by car, you’ll want a car seat to keep your little one safe. Strapped in their car seat is also the safest way for toddlers to fly on a plane.

Younger toddlers might still fit within the safety requirements for an infant car seat, which are great for travel. Infant car seats are lightweight and easy to transport.

If your child has outgrown their infant seat, it’s worth it to invest in a lightweight travel car seat. Trust me, after you’ve spent your whole trip hauling that thing around you’ll be glad to have left your heavy, bulky regular seat at home. Our favorite travel car seat for toddlers is the Cosco Scenera next.

Car seat bag

If you’re bringing a car seat, you’ll want to bring a car seat travel bag. These bags make transporting your car seat much easier and more manageable.

There are a lot of different options out there so check out our review of the best car seat travel bags to find the best one for your trip.

Food/Snacks

These food relate toddler travel essentials will make mealtimes and snacks with your toddler go a lot more smoothly while on your trip.

A bib is a helpful way to keep your child cleaner while eating. As an added bonus, it keeps their clothes clean as well, which makes it more likely that you can pack light and reuse outfits.

These waterproof bibs are lightweight and pack down to practically nothing. We also love these silicone bibs which take a bit more space but are easier to clean and dry more quickly.

Snack catcher

Snacks are a great way to entertain a toddler while traveling. And a snack catcher allows them to feed themselves independently without making a huge mess. This can be a helpful tool for distracting and redirecting a child who is getting bored or on the verge of a meltdown.

Our favorite snack catcher for travel folds down compactly, making it easy to store when not in use. The material it’s made out of does tend to collect lint and crumbs, so I recommend bringing a baggie to store it in when you’re not using it.

Travel high chair

A travel high chair can be a useful item for traveling with a toddler. It ensures that your child always has their own seat at the table and helps keep them contained so that they’re not climbing all over you or running around. This can make for a much more relaxing meal for yourself and your toddler.

Travel high chairs are not always necessary if you’re going someplace where you know high chairs will be available. However if there aren’t high chairs, or if you’re not sure if there will be, bringing your own can be a nice way to ensure that mealtimes go smoothly.

Water bottle

You’ll want to make sure your child is drinking a lot while traveling, so be sure to bring a water bottle and offer it to them frequently throughout the day.

We prefer the straw kind because they are easier for our toddler to use and less likely to spill.

Disposable place mats

Feeding a toddler when you’re eating out can be tricky. The places you eat might not have toddler-safe dishes andd it can be a pain to have to feed your toddler bite by bite (plus in my experience toddlers often insist on feeding themselves!).

That’s where these disposable place mats come in so handy. They have adhesive on all four sides to secure it to the table, providing a clean and stable surface for your toddler to eat on. Once they’re done eating, you can easily pull the place mat off of the table and throw it away. This helps to minimize mess and allows your child to have an independent eating experience without you having to stress about them breaking the dishes.

Sleep Items

Some of the most important toddler travel essentials are those related to sleep. Whether or not your toddler sleeps well can make a huge difference to the success of your trip. A tired and grumpy toddler makes for a very long day while traveling.

These sleep items are ones that can be hugely helpful in getting your toddler the sleep that they need. For everyone’s sake!

White noise

We always bring white noise for our children while traveling. It helps block any ambient sounds that they might not be used to and also means that we don’t have to be quite so quiet as we’re moving around our hotel room or Airbnb.

Oftentimes we’ll just use a white noise app on our phone, but if you want to be able to use your phone for other things, you can bring a travel white noise machine .

While you’re away from home, you’ll want to make sure your toddler has a cozy and comfortable place to sleep. There are a couple of different ways you can do this.

First, if your child sleeps in a crib you can see if your accommodations have a crib or pack ‘n play available for you to use while you’re there.

If you have a bed for your toddler, consider getting portable bed rails to keep your child from rolling off the bed in the night. These bed rails are placed underneath the bottom sheet to form a barrier at the edge of the bed. They provide a lot of peace of mind for when your toddler is sleeping in a full-sized bed. We’ve compiled a list of the best portable bed rails for travel with a toddlers to help you out.

You can also choose to bring a portable toddler bed for your child so you can set up a cozy spot for them to sleep wherever you are. These can come in several different forms, from toddler cots to inflatable beds to pop-up tents. You can see our reviews of the best options for portable toddler beds if you need help picking a good one.

Whichever option you pick, make sure that your child knows what to expect and do your best to make sure it feels as safe and familiar as possible.

Favorite stuffed animal

If your child has a special stuffed animal or blanket, make sure to bring it along to help them feel comfortable and safe during their sleep time.

You could also bring along a favorite story or two as part of their bedtime routine. The key is to help it feel as much like the environment they’re used to as possible.

A monitor may or may not be necessary, depending on your accommodations. If you’re all sleeping in the same room this may not be helpful as you’ll be able to easily hear if your child needs you.

However, if you have a suite, an apartment, or a balcony, a monitor can give you a lot of peace of mind knowing that you can keep a close eye on your baby while in an unfamiliar place.

You can see our recommendations for the best portable baby monitors to help your decision.

Blackout options

For many young children, keeping a dark sleep environment is necessary for a good night’s sleep. This can be especially true if you’re changing time zones and trying to adjust their sleep schedule.

Many hotels will have blackout curtains in their rooms, however rentals or Airbnb’s often do not. We had a couple of really bad experiences with our children waking up extremely early in a new place due to light and since then I always bring a black out option for our toddlers.

One way to create a dark environment is to bring travel blackout curtains . These curtains have suction cups that you can use to attach them to the window, darkening the whole room for sleep.

Another great sleep aid is a SlumberPod (see our full SlumberPod review ) or SlumberPod alternative to create a dark sleep environment for your child. These products go around your child’s bed to block out light to help them sleep better and longer. The nice thing about this option is that it creates a private sleep area for you child, meaning you don’t have to be quite so quiet and careful about light if you’re sharing a room with your child.

Toddler airplane bed

If you’re flying with your toddler, another helpful sleep tool is a toddler airplane bed. These are products that can be used to extend the length of the seat and provide a comfortable place for your toddler to sleep on the plane. These can make a huge difference for international or long-haul flights where you’re traveling through your child’s normal bedtime.

There are few different kinds of airplane beds, and you can learn about the best options in our article on the best airplane beds for toddlers .

Toddler smelling flowers- toddler travel essentials

When you’re traveling with a toddler, there are a few health items that you want to make sure to always have on hand.

Medications

If your child has any medications, be sure to bring enough for your trip plus a bit extra to account for unexpected delays.

Also remember to pack your child’s medication in your carryon luggage so that you aren’t caught without it in case anything happens to your checked luggage.

Thermometer

Traveling with a thermometer ensures that you can monitor a fever if your child happens to get sick. I never travel without one and have actually had to use it a surprising number of times while on trips. It provides a little extra peace of mind knowing that you have a way to assess the severity of a sickness.

You never know when a child might get sick and bringing along some pain medication can make any unexpected sickness a lot less miserable for your child. This is another one I’ve had to use several times when traveling and I’m always so glad that I have it on hand.

Hand sanitizer/sanitizing wipes

Traveling with kids means exposing them to lots of germs, which can often lead to them getting sick. And toddlers are the worst at this, as they tend to touch everything and then stick their hands in their mouths. Bring along hand sanitizer so that you can sanitize their hands frequently, especially before they eat.

Sanitizing wipes are also very helpful for wiping down surfaces such as the tray tables and arm rests on the airplane and tables at restaurants.

No one wants a sick kid, especially when you’re far from home. While you can’t always prevent sickness, sanitizing often definitely increases your chances of keeping everyone healthy.

Toddler travel essential basics

Toddler playing with truck toys on the plane

Having awesome travel activities is an absolute necessity when traveling with a toddler. That doesn’t mean that you need a lot of activities, but you do want a few great options that can capture your child’s attention and that they will return to over and over.

Over our years of traveling with toddlers we’ve found some great activities that our toddlers always love. You can get some ideas from our list of our favorite toddler activities for planes and our favorite toddler activities for road trips .

Consider not only activities for the flight or drive, but also for your hotel room and when you’re out and about.

When you’re traveling with a toddler, you’ll want a great diaper bag to carry all of your essential items. I highly recommend a backpack diaper bag for travel. They are typically much more comfortable, secure against theft, and easier to carry over long periods of time.

Diapers and wipes

If your toddler isn’t potty trained, don’t forget to bring along diapers and wipes. You can choose to bring along enough for your whole trip or, if you want to pack lighter, you can pack enough for the first few days and plan on picking some up at your destination (make sure it’s a place where they’re easy to find).

When possible, I try to just bring along all the diapers and wipes I will need for my trip to save myself the hassle of needing to pick some up during the trip. However, I know people who would prefer to pack less up front, so do what makes the most sense to you.

Be sure to bring more diapers than you think you will need in your diaper bag if you’re traveling by plane. The middle of a long flight is not the place where you want to realize that your child is going through more diapers than you anticipated.

Travel potty

For toddlers who are potty trained or in the process of potty training, a portable potty can be a lifesaver when traveling.

There are a few different kinds, but one of the most useful for travel is a foldable seat that can be placed over a larger toilet to make a secure and smaller seat for your toddler. This allows toddlers to feel safer on a toilet and helps to prevent any potty training regressions while traveling. They’re also compact and can easily be folded up and carried in your diaper bag.

See our list of the best travel potties for toddlers for the best options out there.

Clothes are obviously going to be a travel essential. We’ll highlight a few items in this section and you can find a more detailed list of clothes down in the packing list.

If you’re trying to pack light, bring outfits that can be mixed and matched.

Make sure that you’re packing weather appropriate clothes for your toddler (eg. sun hat, swimsuit, sunglasses vs winter coat, gloves, warm hat).

Plan on bringing an extra pair of pajamas or two in case of nighttime accidents. It’s also a good idea to bring an extra pair of shoes in case you lose one or they get wet.

Toddler travel packing list

This is our tried and tested toddler packing list that I use for every trip. I love being able to pack for a trip and know I’m not missing anything important as long as I double check my trusty list!

Packing tip: Spend a few minutes thinking about your toddler to determine if there are any toddler travel essentials that you should include that are specific to your child. For example, our oldest went through a phase where he couldn’t handle the smell of the toilet, so there was a period where we always carried a travel sized Poo-Pourri around with us. Our other two never had the same issue, so that wasn’t included in their packing lists. There might be items that your child needs that other people wouldn’t think to include.

Car seat travel bag

Food/snacks

Snack catcher

Sleep items

Stuffed animal
Monitor
Blackout option
Hand sanitizer/wipes
Travel activities
Diapers/wipes or undies
Toothbrush/paste
Pants/shorts
Jacket/Coat

Warm weather gear

Swim diapers
Floatie/life jacket

Cold weather gear

Final Thoughts

With a little preparation, traveling with a toddler can actually be a lot of fun. We’ve had great experiences traveling with our toddlers over the years (along with the occasional meltdown of course).

These toddler travel essentials will help your trip go a lot more smoothly. And you can rest assured knowing that you’ve done everything you can to set yourself up for success!

12 Toddler Essentials for Air Travel

Last month, Eliza took her first trip on a plane. We headed to Texas to visit Dave’s mom and full disclosure — I had a lot of anxiety about the visit. Even without COVID, I would have had nerves about traveling with a toddler, but with safety concerns, those feelings were multiplied. In addition to the standard thoughts of “I hope she doesn’t get upset during the flight”, “what will getting through security be like with all. the. things?!”, and “what if there’s a diaper emergency?”, this trip also brought worries regarding sanitation and prayers she wouldn’t find a way to touch everything. When it comes to air traveling with small kids, we are far from experts. But, I think the nerves I have — while wanting Eliza to have as many practical comforts as possible — is more common and typical than seasoned pros with regular jet-setting toddlers. I planned, packed, and we successfully made it through our trip! We learned some things along the way that I thought could be beneficial for those of you who may be interested in hearing the opinions and experiences of the occasional travelers (newly with child in-tow 😉 ). Today, I’m sharing 12 toddler travel essentials from our flight that made our trip so much easier, along with a details on our general logistics when it came to our travel days.

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12 Toddler Travel Essentials (for Air Travel)

12 Airplane Travel Essentials for Toddlers

1. Kitty Backpack

Because we were traveling after the holidays, I used Christmas as an opportunity to gift Eliza a few things for our trip. Eliza was 18 months at the time of travel, is very petite and while I wasn’t planning for her to walk much in the airport, I wanted her to have a little backpack she could manage, should she need to wear one (especially while boarding the plane). All airlines have different policies when it comes to carry-on items. I mentioned before that because I’m nervous, I like to be extra comfortable. While 2 and under can fly free as lap flyers, had Delta not had their current blocked middle seat practice in place, we would have went ahead and purchased Eliza her own seat. But, because Delta is currently blocking middle seats, I listed Eliza as a lap-flier, knowing we would have room in the middle seat for our family, also. But, without her being a commissioned flyer, I didn’t want to run into any snags in terms of carry-ons and personal items. (I think my anxiety is showing even in the explanation of my thought process, haha). Bottom line — I wanted a small bag she could carry on her back, onto the plane, while I was holding her, that could hold a few of her flight snacks and activities.

Because of her age and size, I didn’t know if this sweet little pack would overpower her but I was pleasantly surprised when it arrived to see how much space it had, despite its petite structure. The straps are adjustable, it’s easy to unzip and grab from, and the outside pockets are actually usable. It comes in both a mini and small (we have the mini) and coincidentally, it’s on clearance this weekend . Plus, there’s an additional 30% off clearance promo right now, using code COZY HERE . My mom has a black kitty that Eliza loves so I leapt at the chance to snag this backpack but there’s also a bunny version (on sale but not on clearance) HERE . Even if you aren’t much of a flier, these backpacks are sweet for everyday use, car trips, and days out. We opted to get ours personalized but without personalization, the mini (originally $45) is currently $18 with code COZY .

2. Spill-Proof Thermos

At home, Eliza has her milk cups and her water cups with straws. Neither were appropriate for tossing in a bag and flying. I wanted something that was easy, wouldn’t spill, had a protected straw, and had a safe straw that was soft. THIS little thermos — which comes in a few colors — worked perfectly. The fact that it had little kitty ears and nestled inside Eliza’s little backpack side pocket perfectly was a happy coincidence 😉 One caveat not to miss — we brought it with us totally empty and then filled it with water from a shop on the other side of security. When we took it out after we were in flight and popped the top open, the pressure that had built up made water squirt all over. Shocking, funny, but totally embarrassing. If you use this as a travel cup and fly with it –which I would 100% recommend! — make sure to twist the lid to relieve pressure before popping the cap open once you’re in-flight ;).

3. Headphones

Flying is not the time I wanted to test my parenting skills to see if I could keep Eliza entertained without a screen, haha. These padded headphones for kids fold nicely for compact carrying, come in several colors, and worked perfectly! The cord is tipped with a standard headphone jack — which is compatible with the airplane TVs for direct input — but if you plan to plug into an iPad/iPhone, make sure to grab on of these adapters ( HERE ). Most Delta flights are equipped with TVs built into the headrests these days, but if you aren’t sure about your plane, THESE adapters are tiny and great to keep on hand, just in case.

4. Bibs Pacifiers

While Eliza typically only has a paci for sleep time, I brought several along for the flight for both takeoff and landing. They worked like a charm and she was totally unfazed by elevation/shifting of pressures.

5. North Face Fleece

When we were traveling, the weather was a bit funny. From ATL to San Antonio, the temperature shifts throughout our stay was anywhere from 30s to 70s. I didn’t want to over-pack heavy coats and even though I knew Eliza wouldn’t be going out at night during the coldest temps, I wanted something warm but lightweight for travel and “just in case”. Santa brought her this sweet little North Face fleece jacket that we love. It was light enough to wear through the airport and on the plane (and can fold up teeny tiny!), but would have given just the right amount of warmth as an added layer in the chilly temps. We went for classic black but they come in several colors HERE , and is available as small as a size 0-3 mo.

12 Travel Essentials for Flying with a Toddler

6. Fat Brain Toys Suction Kupz

I was really nervous about keeping Eliza entertained during our travel days and I really had to work to keep the carry-ons lightweight and not over-stuffed. These flexible silicone suction cups are so versatile — they stack, bend, and add virtually no added weight. Another perk — they’re easy to clean! I did bring a couple of books on the plane too, and those actually proved to be a waste. They were too bulky, heavy, and only kept her entertained for a few minutes — on the way back, I added them to our checked luggage.

7. Fat Brain Toys Dimpl

Another lightweight winner, this Dimpl is easy to toss in a carry-on. Even if you aren’t traveling, it makes a great carseat toy!

8. Tubby Todd Hand Sanitizer

It smells great, the spray feature is easy and provides full coverage, and it’s gentle on sensitive skin. It comes in a two-pack and I always keep one in the car and one in my purse!

9. Water Wipes

Good for face, hands, and diaper changes, flying with a single pack of water wipes instead of several different kinds of wipes was the perfect solution.

10. Happy Tot Pouches

Even if you aren’t a typical “pouch family”, these pouches are quick, easy, travel well, and are a great way to get some nutrients in when traveling. Eliza loves these and they have everything from sweet potatoes, squash, chia, and mango to carrots, spinach, green beans, and apples.

11. Diaper Bag Dispenser & Refills

These deodorized diaper bags aren’t just a top travel essential, but an essential for babies and toddlers, in general. They’re small and compact and totally conceal any smell. I know this is oversharing a bit and my mom will be mortified if she sees this but on more than one occasion, I’ve used these on the go, knotted them and tossed them in my purse, and totally forgotten they were there. Not only am I totally fine and confident storing a dirty diaper in these — even in my purse, should I not have access to a trash can — but they’re also great when you’re visiting someone’s house and you don’t want to put a dirty diaper directly in their trashcan. Even when I visit with my parents, I just don’t feel right sticking an unprotected, smelly diaper in their regular trash. You can find the dispenser with bags HERE for $3.99 (they ship free), and grab bag refills HERE .

12. UPPAbaby Minu Travel Stroller

The number one thing that was likely the source of the majority of my anxiety about traveling was the logistics and ease, making our way through the airport, through security, and onto the plane. We have always used an UPPAbaby Vista stroller (which by the way, I 100% recommend), but for air travel especially, I thought it would be too heavy, too bulky, and too cumbersome. I started researching travel strollers and from reviews, videos, and rankings, it seemed the UPPAbaby Minu was by far the best combination of easy and lightweight while still having premium features. We have been such fans of our other UPPAbaby gear, so the numerous comparisons I read weren’t surprising. Also, while we love our Vista , I thought it was probably time to consider going with something a little more easy and portable that could potentially transition into our new primary stroller. We got it c/o UPPAbaby just before our trip and, wow. Not only is it lightweight (while the Vista weighs in at over 26 lbs, the MINU weighs just under 15 lbs), but it folds down to its most compact size with one hand and has a carrying strap. While it doesn’t have the huge wheels the Vista has, it does maneuver effortlessly and easily — if you have experience with other UPPAbaby strollers, you know how well they glide. The best part — it fits in the overhead bin on the plane.

This alone was a huge determining factor for me when I was researching. I don’t trust checked baby gear and if it could be avoided, I didn’t even want to chance checking a stroller at the gate. When we went to board the plane, the gate agent gave us a slip to check it and I declined, telling her it was *supposed* to fit in the overhead bin. She was doubtful. When we boarded, the flight attendant said “um, that can be checked” and again, I told her it would fit in the overhead, hoping the claims of what I read were true. Dave easily lifted the stroller, slid it in the overhead compartment, and shut the hatch. The flight attendant was shocked and asked where we got it. Now again, this was the first time we flew with it but I was surprised she was so surprised. A stroller fitting in the overhead so easily is that rare?? Apparently, to her, it was.

Favorite Travel Stroller & Other Toddler Travel Essentials

In terms of the features, it has a hood, a sunshade, and the recline is adjustable. It has a basket underneath which still accompanied both Dave and Eliza’s bags as we cruise through the airport and just as the stroller fit perfectly in the overhead compartment on the plane, it has a single-handed fold-up that makes it easy and quick to put on the security conveyor. It’s upright and wheels in small spaces and isn’t too cumbersome to jump on and off the plane train at the airport. It was such a game changer during our trip that it now resides in the cargo space of my crossover and has become our primary stroller.

12 Essentials for Flying with Your Toddler

And, while we waited until now to test out the MINU , if you prefer something smaller and more lightweight in general, even at an earlier age, it does comes with the ability to attach an infant seat! You can find the adapter (it would have worked with our UPPAbaby Mesa, among others) HERE . There’s a big pocket on the back, it holds up to 50 lbs, and it has fee same-day delivery where we live HERE .

BONUS Gathre Leather Changing Mat

These things are lifesavers — they fold up into a tiny square, are easily wiped clean, and are not only good for diaper changes, but mats to eat on, also (I brought two with us). You can lay them on any surface and I prefer to put these on top of changing stations instead of trying to Clorox the entire thing.

Other Travel Favorites (Non-Flight Related)

While not flight-related, I wanted to share a few of our favorites we’ve used for trips by car, also.

Eliza is incredibly regimented so the first time we took an overnight trip, I was nervous about how she would sleep in a hotel room — especially while we stayed awake for hours longer. We ordered this Slumberpod which is essentially a blackout tent, designed to fit over a pack and play. It worked perfectly . It stays pitch black, is breathable and even has an interior pocket if you want to set a monitor inside.

We also set Eliza’s white noise machine — the Hatch — inside the Slumberpod so not only is it pitch black, but it also drowns out the noise outside of the pod. We use it nightly in her nursery so we just pack it in our luggage.

In terms of packing, THESE packing cubes are game changers — not just for kids, but for the whole family. For small kids specifically, though, with Eliza splitting suitcases with me, it so helped having all of her things grouped together, organized and separated. I swear these make it easier to fit so much more inside the suitcase, too. I used one cube for her outfits, one for diapers, wipes, and toiletries, and one for everything else. They come in several color options and are one of my most favorite discoveries of the last five years.

As we become more seasoned (one day), traveling as a family of three, I’m sure we’ll continue to learn and simplify but as for our first flight travel experience — especially during a more concerning time — the prep leading up to our trip totally paid off. Packing and traveling with small kids is no joke but I literally took inventory of our full typical day and tried to duplicate that in a travel-version. Are there any toddler essentials you swear by that make traveling with kids easier? If so, you can share those in the comment section at the bottom of the post!

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The ultimate holiday packing list (travelling with a two-year-old and an 8-month old)

My husband and I always promised ourselves that having a baby wouldn’t stop us from travelling. And then we had our first baby and when we would routinely pack as much crap to go to the supermarket as we had to spend a month in Thailand pre-baby, we couldn’t ever imagine it being worth the hassle again. But as time went on we slowly came back around to the idea. These days, our holidays are different, slower and we pack less in (experientially, not physically), we’re still parents (so it’s not truly a holiday…!) and the broken sleep has travelled with us, but in many ways we know we’ll look back on these as being among the most memorable trips of all.

Like the week we spent in Barcelona and Montserrat, cycling around the city with our then 18 month-old taking in the sights. Or the long weekend we spent in Paris, where, alongside the Louvres, Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower we also found secret playgrounds, city parks and even had pizza delivered to our picnic blanket by a bike carrying a pink balloon.

But perhaps the most memorable of all was the lazy month we spent in a gîte (an old converted farmhouse) in the southwest of France, waking up to fields of sunflowers in the mornings and walking to the local bakery for fresh baguettes. As relaxed and slow-paced as it was, life was made a lot easier by having certain essentials with us. My list of ‘essentials’ has grown exponentially since having kids, but I’d be lost without them.

So here is my ultimate packing list. This was for a one-month trip to a warm climate with a two-year-old and an 8 month-old. We were self-catering and had a hire car which had an impact on some of my choices. The four of us travelled with a 15kg suitcase (for the hubby and I), and a 20kg suitcase for the kids’ stuff.

Hand luggage

Buggy/Stroller - ours is the Uppababy Vista and we bring the Rumble seat for our two year old so both can sit if they get tired.
Buggy clips - attached to the buggy means the buggy carries a couple of extra bits and frees up my hands for chasing the toddler
Blankets (small blue and pink cellular blanket to help them nap on flights or in the car on journeys – they’re smaller versions of what they sleep in so they get great comfort from them)
Portable changing mat – We use The Wriggler anti-roll changing mat (obviously, since we created it!) and would be lost without it since it stops those wriggly wrestling matches wherever we go.
Selection of distracting toys for the plane. The things I’ve found most useful for the toddler are:
Magic water books – colouring fun without the mess. If the water pen is too messy, my little one also loves colouring with a wipe!
Large beads and string / laces – I picked these up at our local Flying Tiger shop and they keep him entertained for a good twenty minutes!
New, small figures – I have found the Superwings transformer characters great on flights. The novelty of the new toy is great, they’re really small and neat in his little hands, and the transforming function keeps him busy for ages
I’ve also used these colour boards , which again kill a lot of time as he tries out different shapes and patterns
iPad (for when we both they tired of entertaining!)
Snacks – apples, popcorn and lollipops are my favourite as they last the longest!

Checked luggage

Stuff for the house:

Bed sheet x 4
Travel cot & mattress*
*Tip: Most airlines allow you take two pieces of baby equipment with you for free. We take a stroller and a travel cot. I don't find the mattresses that come with travel cots comfortable enough for the kids; they are very thin and hard. We wrap a foam mattress around the mattress itself and then wrap it in plastic for the flight.
Grobag 1.0 tog*
*Tip: I have recently started using the T ravel Gro bags and find them great. They have a small opening in the back and a two-way zip so you can strap the child into a car seat or stroller with the Gro-bag on and easily transfer them to a cot or vice versa if you are travelling. We used this when we were in Paris when our first child was 10 months. We didn't want to miss Paris by night so when our little one got tired, we'd get him ready for bed, put him in the Grobag and let him sleep in the stroller. It was easy to transfer him straight to the cot when we'd get back to the hotel each night.
Ice cube tray (for weaning portions)
A million zip lock bags*
*From keeping spoons and bowls clean in your bag, to storing batch cooks if you do any on holidays, to using as bin bags for all the clutter that accumulates during a day out, I can never have enough of these at hand!
Weaning book*
*Self-disclosure: I am a batch cooker. There, I said it. I love a freezer full of healthy meals at home and regularly have to quell a sense of impending doom as shelves become empty. When we go away I tend to do one big shop on one of the first days and batch cook maybe three dinner options and a lunch option. That way, I get it all done and out of the way in 3 or 4 hours early in the trip and don't have to think about what to feed the baby after that. This may sound like a hateful waste of precious holiday time and maybe it is but for me, I'm happy to sacrifice a bit of time to keep the freezer monkey off my back for the whole holiday! My favourite recipe book for my 8-month old is Annabel Karmel's Weaning book .
*See confession above to explain stowing this unlikely kitchen appliance in a suitcase bound for holidays! My little one also loves avocado and banana for lunch which is so quick and easy and doesn't need to be cooked or prepared in advance so the blender comes in useful for that too!
Nappies x 10 (enough for one day)
Nappy bags
* We didn’t have air-con in the g î te so we brought a little desktop fan. It did the trick and also doubled as a white noise machine!
Blackout blind*
*Another essential as far as I'm concerned. Both my kids sleep in blacked out rooms at home and yet everywhere we've travelled with the exception of one or two hotels have had flimsy curtains or light blinds. I use the Gro anywhere blackout blind . It's a bulky enough item in the suitcase, but for me it's worth it to be sure of a great night's sleep for the kids (well, me).
Thermometer
Bottle brush
Blanket to play on
Bluetooth speaker – probably one of the only things on the list that would have been on my pre-baby packing list!
Aptamil x 2 – I like to keep the same formula as the baby’s on at home and I couldn’t find an equivalent in France so I brought enough with me to last the month.
Baby stock cubes*
*note the theme emerging from the batch cooking disclosure. I haven't been able to find low salt baby friendly stock cubes consistently abroad so I just bring a few in a (you guessed it) zip lock bag to save me looking. I get mine in Boots.
Cotton wool
Swim nappies
Sunglasses
Beach shelter
Fruit feeder*
* Tip: this is one of my favourite weaning products. There are many similar products available but I used this one . For me, it's the ultimate restaurant accessory. Both of our little ones would happily sit in their highchairs from around 7 months munching on grapes, strawberries and other fruits in the fruit feeder. They got to experience new tastes and textures and we got to enjoy a meal without constantly wondering if we or anyone in the restaurant would know what to do if they started to choke.
Travel highchair*
*Before we took our first major trip with a baby (to France), I googled "travelling in France with a baby" and "best packing lists for travelling with a baby". I'm glad I did. It turns out many of the restaurants and cafes in France didn't have highchairs. I worked from a recommendation from one of the blogs I'd read and brought the Totseat travel highchair with me. It was perfect for my needs as it is made from fabric and squashes into a small pouch so didn't take much room in my 'every inch accounted for' case. It was also easy to throw in my backpack on days out, unlike many plastic or rigid travel highchairs I've come across.
Baby backpack
Buggy sunshade*
*we went with the Snoozeshade sunshade for using with the buggy when we were out and about during the day. It was great for naps and the SPF meant we were never worried about her getting sun burnt while she slept. It also worked well as a blackout blind in the evenings if we ever wanted to bring her to a restaurant after bed time, but with the toddler in tow that wasn’t a regular occurrence on this trip!
Picnic blanket
*Whether to keep milk or dinners warm, or fruit cool, I'd be lost without my thermos. I know there are many on the market specifically for babies, but in my experience many of them get mixed reviews. I went with this one by Thermos and have been so impressed with it. It has also saved me from that awkward moment in restaurants where I ask the waitress to heat up the baby's dinner and realise it's a smelly fish dish.
Cooler bag – we used one that plugs into the car to keep things extra cool which worked really well for day trips with our rental car
Aptamil ready milk x 3 1litre plus 2x200ml – for the days we were travelling and didn’t have access to sterilised water.

So there you have it...the packing list that gave me (relative) peace on our trip! What are your travel essentials?

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This post was updated March 2024

Daniel and I used to be wildly poor packers. And things got even more complicated when we have to think about travel with kids. All kinds of what-ifs would go through my mind, and I’d stress about not being able to find travel essentials for kids while on the move.

The thing about traveling with kids is that you just CAN’T take as much stuff per person unless you want to drive yourself mad. With more people, especially small people who aren’t always capable of schlepping all their own kids travel gear, we learned to pare things down to just the travel necessities. Fast.

We’ve now traveled with kids for over a decade to over 60 countries and all over the US. We’ve found some really excellent travel essentials for kids that are worth the weight and effort to take along. These baby travel essentials have saved us time and again.

How To Choose the Best Travel Gear for Kids

All of our personal kids travel essentials must check 3 boxes – they must be lightweight, durable, and preferably multi-functional. Every item must be relatively easy to carry and hold up for the duration of the trip (hopefully many trips!).

Here’s a complete kids packing list with everything from gear to clothing to medical supplies – true baby travel essentials. We use it every time we travel! And if your kids are packing for themselves, try this visual packing list for kids .

This list of the best travel essentials for kids doesn’t include basics like medicine or clothing, or needs like diapers and wipes. Instead, I’ve focused on more unique kid travel accessories that are worth their weight in gold. They’re things we’ve returned to time and again. Hopefully these travel tips will give you a few ideas of the best travel accessories for kids!

6 Kids, 50 Countries, 20 Best Travel Essentials for Kids

1. sound machine or white noise app.

Not travel specific, but it’s especially helpful for travel and is definitely one of our favorite kids travel accessories. All our kids sleep with some sort of white noise, and it’s really useful in helping kiddos (and adults!) adjust to new time zones, sleeping locations, etc.

We often use a white noise app when traveling, and also like to carry a tiny little portable sound machine for a 2nd room.

2. Kidco Peapod

I think this is the very best baby travel bed for babies and toddlers. It’s a little pop up baby tent that zips so baby can’t get out. The baby cot part only weighs about a pound or so – way better than carrying around a 20+ pound pack n play.

The best part about this baby travel essential is that it’s lightweight and small enough to fit inside our checked luggage. That means one fewer piece to remember to grab and carry around – a lifesaver when you have limited hands! It’s also great for things like the beach when you need a bit of shade and privacy for baby.

3. Car Seat Suitcase Strap

This luggage strap is kind of the silliest and simplest of all these travel accessories for kids. You could undoubtedly make it for cheaper than the $15 you have to pay, but that’s probably more annoyance than it’s worth. This silly little strap totally works to strap a big, bulky convertible carseat onto a suitcase (either a carry on size or full size). Plus, your kid can even sit and ride in it. Genius.

4. Carseats and Boosters for Travel

If we’ll be driving at all while traveling, we always pack travel child restraints. We use a few different options depending on the age of our child. Here’s what we personally use by age:

Babies: Infant car seat
Toddlers: Cosco Scenera NEXT convertible car seat
Ages 3-5: Ride Safer booster vest (you can use the code PASSPORT for $10 any new vests)
Ages 6+: Inflatable booster

More about which car seats we take and when we travel with them in this post !

5. Lightweight Outerwear

Outerwear is some of the trickiest clothing to figure out as far as baby travel essentials go, in my opinion. We often want something warm but not too warm, and that can be layered if needed. Some amount of rain protection is a plus, and packing down small is a necessity. Bright colors for keeping track of kids are a bonus.

We used these lightweight puffy coats for several years and they were great for layering and packing. They pack small and work as a pillow, and you can wash them easily and they’re water-resistant (though not waterproof). Sometimes we need to take warmer parkas if we’re really heading somewhere wet and frigid, but these work great most of the time.

This is my very favorite packable warm jacket for women . It’s pricey but absolutely fantastic – so warm, so lightweight, zippers, weather resistant, so many things. I love it. (Also available HERE and currently on big sale!) I also love this lightweight packable long coat that stuffs into it’s own pocket. It’s warm, great for layering, and packs so small – great for mixed weather travel.

6. Lightweight Luggage

We’re pretty darn good at packing light with kids in terms of space constraints, but weight is still sometimes an issue. So we like to use lightweight but durable luggage so we’re not giving up too much weight to the luggage itself. This is our very favorite lightweight checked luggage – we’ve dragged this suitcase all around the globe and it’s held up incredibly well. It’s spacious to fit most of what we need for our family (we usually take an extra carry on suitcase or backpacks) and has room for our baby travel bed .

When we don’t want to check a suitcase, we typically take three lightweight carry on suitcases for our family of 8. We can’t fit the baby bed inside in this case so that adds a couple of pieces in terms of sheer numbers, but it’s sometimes worthwhile to not have one big suitcases and to have everything with us instead of in the hold of the airplane.

Here’s all our favorite luggage for families .

7. Kids’ Melatonin

This is one kids travel essential where you should for sure check with your doctor in advance, but it’s been very helpful for us. We much prefer using melatonin to an actual drug like Benadryl as our bodies do produce it naturally. We typically use it on a long plane ride and the first night or two in a very different time zone as a way to help our kids get over jet lag.

There are lots of different kinds, but we think this is the best kids melatonin . It’s not a child-specific one, but is the exact same dosage as the kids’ melatonin, and we prefer it to the kids’ melatonin gummies. The gummies usually have a bit of added sugar, while this kind does not. It’s also fast-acting and the tablets are smaller than carrying the gummy kind.

8. Portable Door Lock

We once had a kiddo manage to get out of our hotel room very early one morning. He thought he was opening the door to the bathroom, but it turns out it was the door to the hall, which, of course, closed and locked behind him.

We are SO GRATEFUL he was okay and all was well, but one of these portable locks immediately became a kid travel essential for us. It’s great if there’s no deadbolt or if you have a little escape artist. This portable door lock is lightweight, strong, and easy to install.

9. Packing Cubes

I can’t overstate how much I love this kids travel accessory . They’re magic for keeping everyone organized and each kid has his or her own color. Especially when traveling with multiple people (and not wanting to have 6 different pieces of luggage), this travel essential for kids is perfect for containing and keeping track of all the stuff. I also really like this expandable set .

10. Kid Travel Backpacks

Our kids love these amazing travel backpacks that we absolutely adore. They’re durable, spacious, and have lots of pockets. We definitely use them for way more than hiking – they’ve been all around the world with us. They’re WAY more comfortable to wear for longer periods of time or through an airport than a standard school backpack!

Our 3 year old tends to use the smaller 12L version when we travel, and our older kids (and I!) often use the 40L backpacking version if we’re doing a longer trip and aren’t checking luggage. All the sizes are durable, functional, and comfortable.

11. Folding Travel Backpack

We always pack along at least one of these lightweight folding backpacks every time we travel. They’re lightweight, sturdy, and really helpful if we have items we’ve purchased, leftover food/snacks, etc. It’s also great to carry rain gear if we don’t want to wear it all day, or to reshuffle luggage weight. We often attach them to the outside of another backpack with a carabiner so that we have it handy and so it’s not an extra piece to track.

12. Carabiners

Speaking of carabiners , it sounds so random, but they are totally a kids travel essential for our family. You can get a set of about a million of these for dirt cheap. Get the kind that screw for extra security, and get them in a bunch of colors. We always pack several – they’re great for strapping on water bottles, keys, or even stuffed animals. This is such a useful and unexpected travel accessory for children.

13. Soft-sided baby carrier

I can’t imagine traveling with a child under the age of 2 without a baby carrier. They are just so darn convenient, especially if you’re traveling to a place that’s not very stroller-friendly. We have both the regular Boba and the Boba Air (which folds up into a small pouch and fits easily in a bag). Both are amazing baby carriers for travel.

The regular Boba is more supportive if you’ll be wearing a child for a longer period of time, so it’s usually our go-to for longer trips. But if we’re going somewhere hot and/or wet, or if we won’t be using the carrier a ton, the Boba Air is for sure the one we use. It dries really fast and packs so small!

I personally prefer the Boba to the Ergo as it fits better on my narrower shoulders. Whichever you choose, a good, ergonomic carrier is one of my most vital baby travel essentials, especially when on an airplane.

We ALWAYS have one of these bibs on hand when we travel. Honestly, they’re the only ones we use at home, as well. I love that they have sleeves so they actually keep clothes clean (especially useful when rewearing clothing while traveling with kids). They roll up super small and lightweight, and are easy to wipe down or wash and dry quickly. Not just a kids travel essential, these are an everyday baby essential for us.

15. Lightweight umbrella stroller

These days, we don’t often travel with a stroller unless we’ll be doing a lot of walking around cities. When we do take one, we only ever take a single lightweight umbrella stroller for travel (a double just hasn’t been helpful for us).

The lightweight single umbrella stroller we used and loved for over a decade isn’t being made anymore, but this one is similar and very inexpensive with great reviews, both online and from the LPF community. The things I love about ours are that it weighs hardly anything and has a very slim profile, but still handles bumps and curbs well. It has a good-sized basket underneath, has a rain cover and sun shade, and reclines. This one seems like it checks those boxes, too, and also makes a great everyday stroller.

When we moved to London, we purchased an inexpensive dupe of this stroller and we’ve loved it!

16. Kids’ Kindle for Travel

It’s maybe a little humorous that this item is so far down in this list because for my age 5+ kiddos, this is an absolute travel non-negotiable, including for any local car rides. We love downloading books for the kids to read on their own or for us to read together, and it’s great being able to carry tons with us without taking lots of weight or space. Plus, it’s super durable and has a great battery life. We love them!!

17. Hanging Toiletry Bag + Toothbrush Covers

Perhaps your children are perfect angels and always neatly line up their toothbrushes so you’re never frantically searching for them while packing up. And maybe they always put the comb back in the right spot. If this is the case, you probably don’t need this.

But if your children, like ours, are… children , then this travel toiletry case will be a lifesaver. It keeps everything organized and in its home. It has room for our medical bag and personal hygiene items and even my makeup. And my toothbrush isn’t at risk of being knocked in the toilet in a tiny European bathroom.

We also use these toothbrush covers for each of our toothbrushes. It helps when everyone has a color and keeps them clean while traveling and in the toiletry case .

We leave a few travel essentials for kids always ready to go in a drawer in one of our closets, and this is one of them. It’s so convenient to know it has what we need (we just make sure nothing needs refilling) and to not need to rethink it every time!

18. Kids travel water bottle

We’ve tried about 8 gazillion different kid water bottles. This is my current favorite for toddlers and younger kiddos because the straw stays completely covered when closed so it keeps it clean. Plus, it keeps drinks cold and doesn’t leak, and the loop allows you to attach it to a backpack with a carabiner so it doesn’t fall out of the pocket. The older kids and adults in our family all love this water bottle . 27k+ 5-star reviews are not for naught.

We fill these water bottles in the airport before boarding so we don’t have to worry about asking for (and spilling!) a million cups of water when traveling with kids on an airplane. They’re great as a travel essential for kids for long car rides, or for hotel rooms to have a drink by the bedside.

19. Simple Building Toy

We take very little in terms of kids’ entertainment while traveling. It’s usually just more to schlep, and they’re typically most entertained by random items along the way. But we always have a small baggie of some sort of lightweight building toy. Sometimes it’s a ziplock of LEGOs, while other times we take these along. They’re great for a huge variety of ages. We’ve used this kids travel toy on both airplanes and road trips with great success. We also love these .

20. Kids Travel Headphones

We love these soft headphones – they are by far the best headphones for toddlers and young children. I also love that they pack down really small for travel and stay on easily in an airplane seat.

21. External Charger

I can’t count the number of times I’ve thanked the stars above for our external charger . It’s a lifesaver when you desperately need an audiobook to calm shrieking kids in the car, or when you need white noise from your dying phone to calm the baby. We absolutely never travel without one.

I also ADORE this tiny one that plugs right into my phone – I love that it’s cordless and so convenient. I use it most days even at home. A true travel essential for families. Finally, I love this magnetic portable charger that attaches right to the back of my phone.

IF YOU LIKED THIS POST ABOUT KIDS AND BABY TRAVEL MUST HAVES, YOU MIGHT LIKE THESE POSTS, TOO:

Kids Packing List: Family Travel Essentials
How to Check a Carseat: Tips & Tricks
10 Tips for Getting Over Jet Lag with Kids

NOT READY TO PACK UP YOUR BABY TRAVEL ESSENTIALS QUITE YET? PIN THIS POST FOR LATER!

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45 responses.

I love talking travel accessories! We are loyal to the Phil and Ted's portable crib–lightweight, fits in a suitcase, all three kids can potentially curl up and sleep in it because it's long and skinny. Our Ergo carrier was basically Sage's second home for her first two years of life. And I love Indestructibles books for traveling with babies. Ours have been stepped on, chomped on, waded up, and spilled on but are still going strong.

(P.S. Lots of the links seem to not be working 🙁 And I really want to know what your favorite stroller is since people have such strong opinions!)

I’ve considered the Phil & ted’s crib many times so I’m glad to know you love it as you are the travel queen! It’s heavier than the pea pod but it might be worth it to have an actual crib for two months…hmm. Maybe I need to check yours out!

I’ve never seen the Indestructibles books but I need to check them out!

And thank you for the head’s up on the links – should all be working now! 😘

I love this post! We're heading to Denmark for much of the summer, and I'm going to get two of the Mifolds for our rental car. Where are you guys going for two months this summer?

Thank you!! Denmark is actually one of our stops – do you have family there if you'll be there much of the summer? I'd love any tips! We're headed all over Western Europe this summer. 🙂

Hope the mifolds work out for you!

My husband is a professor and is teaching in Denmark. We'll be in Aarhus — the 2nd-largest city in Denmark, but far less known than Copenhagen!

We love the Baby Bjorn Travel Lite and the Brica travel bassinet for younger babies. Both fit in a suitcase and are so lightweight!

Awesome, thanks for the rec! I'll check it out!

The only thing I can think of is we have a few of the cheapo rainslickers in our travel bags. It is cheaper than buying them at a tourist attraction if it happens to rain.

[…] 15 Best Travel Accessories for Kids […]

[…] 15 BEST TRAVEL ACCESSORIES FOR KIDS […]

Packing cubes are our #1 travel go-to! The Ergo has always been another travel must! We used it with our kids until they were 4! We also use delicates mesh laundry bags for dirty laundry. They pack up small when not in use, zipper so nothing falls out when full And come in all different sizes for different types of trips. Some travel games we like are spot it, slamwich, and now tenza. All are small and easily packable and good for lots of ages. We have also used the scrubba for washing laundry when we didn’t have access to a machine for awhile. It’s only for a small amount of things but definitely does the trick

THat’s a great idea to use mesh laundry bags! We also love spot it, or we just use the head’s up app (or whatever it’s called where others have to help you guess the word, haha). We usually take a few travel laundry pods just in case but I haven’t tried the scrubba – I’ll have to look it up!

[…] Related: 4 Kids, 43 Countries, 20 Travel Essentials for Kids […]

[…] 4 Kids, 43 Countries, 20 Travel Essentials for Kids […]

[…] 20 Travel Essentials for Kids […]

[…] Best Travel Essentials for Kids […]

[…] 4 Kids, 43 Countries, 20 Must Have Travel Essentials […]

[…] Related: 20+ Travel Essentials for Kids […]

[…] 20 Travel Essentials with Kids […]

I think it is pretty easy to lose track of yourself after having a baby. What is important to note is that if you don’t take care of yourself, the harder it becomes to take care of your baby. I really like how you related that above!

Thanks for reading!!

[…] 20 Must Have Travel Essentials with Kids […]

[…] Cannot miss family travel essentials […]

[…] Here’s the full KIDS PACKING LIST we always use, and also our favorite 20 ESSENTIALS FOR TRAVELING WITH KIDS. […]

[…] 20 Must Have Family Travel Essentials […]

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18 Toddler Road Trip Essentials

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Table of Contents

ROAD TRIP ESSENTIAL FOR A TODDLER

If you are thinking of going on a family road trip, I say go for it. Traveling with a toddler isn’t always easy, but it doesn’t have to be a nightmare.

We have driven to or through 12 states, recording more than 8,000 miles with our toddler.

Most of that time has been pleasant, but a few hours of our trips have been downright miserable. Although it isn’t fun while it is happening, we’ve learned from our mistakes.

You have to keep in mind, it’s all about the experience. Ultimately, “it doesn’t matter where you’re going, it’s who you have beside you.” That is one of our favorite road trip quotes .

Here are the toddler road trip essentials you need to make your next road trip more manageable and stress-free.

Disclosure: “Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. Click here for the full disclosure statement.”

TODDLER ROAD TRIP GEAR

If you are planning to take a long road trip with a toddler, having the right toddler road trip gear is essential.

Although some of these things are no-brainers, a few of them fall through the cracks.

Here is our list of toddler road trip essentials that you’ll need before hitting the road.

Car Seat Travel Tray

I don’t know why these haven’t been around for decades; they are so awesome. Car seat travel trays will keep your little one entertained while on your road trip.

The different pockets make it easy to organize everything you need. There is a place for everything, and most importantly, nothing will end up on the floor.

Comfortable Car Seat

A comfortable car seat is essential when traveling with a toddler. Imagine being strapped into a 5-point harness for hours at a time. Wouldn’t you want to be in a comfortable seat? If so, that’s how your toddler feels.

Before we started traveling full-time we used the Symphony Elite car seat because it could grow with our toddler and was very comfortable. He would sit in that car seat for hours without crying.

So, if you plan on taking a road trip with your toddler, check if their car seat is comfortable for this.

Note: If you have a lightweight car seat (with less cushion), consider stopping more frequently to give your toddler a break.

Symphony Elite All-in-One Car Seat Price

Car Sunshade

Until recently, I’ve never had to think about a car sunshade because I had tinted windows. After seeling our car, I realized a car sunshade is essential when traveling with kids .

There is nothing fun about the sun beating down on you. If your car does not have tinted windows, you should invest in a car sunshade for your little one(s).

Car Sun Shade Price

Insulated Cooler Bag

Insulated cooler bags have been a part of our lives since our son was born. We needed to keep his breastmilk cold after I pumped while traveling.

Now that our baby is no longer a baby, we use the cooler for his snacks. He LOVES to eat, so we like to have food packed and ready before starting a road trip with our toddler.

This cooler bag is leakproof and can hold up to 50 pounds, that’s more than enough to hold our toddler while on a road trip. The cooler is also collapsible so, it doesn’t take up much space in your trunk.

Insulated Cooler Bag Price

First Aid Kit

No products found.

A first aid kit is one of those things that you know you need, but somehow always forget to buy.

I know my wife has been telling me for over six months to get a first aid kit, and I say okay, but somehow I always forget to buy it.

If anyone is interested, I purchased this first aid kit for our move to Mexico. I am sure we’ll have this kit for years, which is perfect because that’ll be the next time I will remember to buy another one.

Laundry Bag (For Dirty Clothes)

When traveling on a road trip with a toddler, you will have a lot of dirty clothes.

Our son goes through at least two shirts a day, almost every day because he loves to take dirt baths outside. Since we know, he will likely be dirty before his first nap we always pack a laundry bag .

Packing a laundry bag allows us to keep dirty clothes separated from clean clothes. Trust me, getting dressed will be a lot easier if you separate; your clothes.

When you return home, you can throw the clothes from the laundry bag into the washer without having to unpack other items.

This tip is for all of my procrastinators because I love packing for vacation, but hate unpacking when returning from vacation.

Travel Laundry Bag Price

Portable Diaper Changing Pad

I used to think portable diaper changing pads weren’t needed and were a ploy to get you to buy more baby stuff you don’t need, I was wrong.

Our portable changing pad has been a lifesaver ever since our toddler has decided he no longer likes getting his diaper changed.

Not only is it cleaner than using the changing table in the restroom, but it is also less risky.

The surface is waterproof, so it is easy to clean with wipes. The large pockets give you enough storage; for extra diapers and wipes. There is a padded cushion; to keep your little one comfortable.

Related Post: Best Travel Potty for Toddlers

Portable Diaper Changing Pad Price

Diaper Changing Story

While at the airport, I was changing our son in the restroom. I turned around for less than ten seconds to grab more wipes because there was a lot more poop than expected, and by the time I turned back, he was about to jump off the changing table.

It felt like everything was in slow motion because I caught him mid-jump, and he thought it was hilarious.

From that moment on, we have been using a portable diaper pad, closer to the ground.

Related Post: Best Travel Backpacks for Toddlers & Older Kids

Toddler Road Trip Snack Essentials

There is nothing our kid loves more than eating. Our lives revolve around making sure he has snacks, and that he eats on time. If his food isn’t ready, we know an epic tantrum is coming.

His temper tantrums are the reason snacks are number one on our road trip packing list.

Stainless Steel Insulated No-Spill Sippy Cup

We love our son’s no-spill sippy cup. We do not go anywhere without his cup.

It has made our lives so much easier because he can no longer pour out his water. The latest improvement is the stainless steel insulated sippy cup .

This cup can keep drinks cooler, compared to other cups for up to 15 hours. It is a win/win scenario for everyone, cold drinks with no mess.

Stainless Steel Insulated No-Spill Sippy Cup Price

Snack Catcher with Lid

If you haven’t noticed, we love Munchkin brand products. They are the only brand that our son hasn’t conquered in terms of making a mess.

The snack catcher with a lid is our go-to for snack time. This cup is designed to keep snacks inside the bowl and requires them to take out a few at a time.

The lid helps keep the snacks fresh, so they are exposed to air and become stale.

Snack Catcher with Lid Price

Toddler Snack Bowls

BraveJusticeKidsCo | Snack Attack Snack Cup | Collapsible Silicone Snack Container | Toddler and Baby Snack Catcher Lid (Maroon)

Last update on 2024-06-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Reusable Food Pouch

If you aren’t using reusable snack pouches , you are missing out on savings. We buy jars of yogurt, apple sauce, puree, and sometimes ice cream to fill these pouches.

It is a lot cheaper to buy the larger containers and fill the pouches than it is to buy them individually.

Not only are you saving money, but you are helping the environment by producing less waste.

All you have to do is fill them, clean them, and store them for next time. We’ve been using these since our son was nine months and do not plan on stopping anytime soon.

Note: You can prefill the pouches and put them in the freezer for a few days. Take them out the night before your road trip, and give them to your toddler. They will love them.

Tip: This is also how we get him to eat veggies if he’s being too picky. We blend apple sauce with some veggies and he doesn’t taste the difference.

Reusable Food Pouch Price

Flipping Holder

We recently discovered the flipping holder , and it has been a game-changer. Our son loves making a mess, so we needed something to hold his pouches, so he’d stop making a mess.

The flipping holder lets him hold his pouches without spilling them everywhere. They not only work on snack pouches but they can also be used for juice boxes or Capri Sun.

Flipping Holder Price

Related Post: 50 Road Trip Activities for Toddlers

Reusable Storage Bags

We are making an effort to use more eco-friendly, sustainable products. To cut down on our waste as a family on the move, we switched to reusable storage bags.

As we all know, traveling with a toddler means you always need to be prepared with snacks . Whatever snacks we need to pack for the little one, we use these storage bags.

Related Post: 20 Toddler Travel Essentials

Reusable Storage Bags Price

TODDLER ROAD TRIP ENTERTAINMENT

Our #1 tip when traveling with a toddler is, have a lot of road trip entertainment or activities. Toddlers are little balls of energy, so sitting in a car seat or booster seat for several hours isn’t appealing.

To keep them from getting frustrated, you must have a lot of different activities to keep them entertained.

Car rides aren’t fun for them, so creating road trip games , packing toys, and having different entertainment is an easy way to keep the tantrums, frustration, and boredom at bay.

Related Post: 20 Screen-Free & Fun Toys for Toddlers for Long Road Trips

Kids Fire HD Tablet

Before tablets came about, I remember our van having a tv with VHS for us to watch movies during long road trips. Thanks to advancements in technology, tablets for kids have made traveling with a toddler easier.

We download learning sing-along shows, movies, and music for our toddler to watch and listen to throughout the road trip.

To keep his screen time at a minimum, we only allow him to watch his tablet in one-hour increments.

If he watches a show for one hour, he then has to play with toys, draw, or color for at least an hour. This way, we keep him engaged, and he is not spending hours on his tablet.

A single charge can last up to 12 hours, so the tablet can be used for a few days before needing to be charged.

Amazon Fire Tablet Price

Toddler Headphones

Headphones keep me from going insane as a parent.

I can only listen to the same song so many times before I feel like my ears are going to start bleeding.

Toddler’s headphones will keep you sane you need them if you plan on taking a road trip with a toddler.

The headphones we use are Bluetooth but have a wire included, just in case the battery dies.

We purchased these headphones because they are more durable compared to other brands.

Our baby Hulk has broken three pairs of headphones (snapped by the earphone), and so far, these have held up.

Related Post: Best Headphones for Toddlers

iClever BTH02 Toddler Headphones Price

LeapFrog Builders

Toddler Travel Essential Toys LeapFrog Blocks

We do not go anywhere without toys. Recently, our son has gotten into blocks. Since he has been excited about stacking, we purchased the LeapFrog Builders , and they are amazing.

The blocks are large enough for a toddler and easy to connect and pull apart. The best thing is, the blocks help him learn.

There is an interactive cube that helps them learn numbers, fruits, shapes, animals, and people.

These blocks aren’t just for boys; these blocks are for toddlers of any age to help them learn and grow. I just purchased two sets for our big move to Mexico next week.

Related Posts: Toys to Keep Toddlers Busy on a Road Trip

LeapFrog Blocks Price

Coolplay Alphabet Water Cards

One of our favorite mess-free activities for our son is the coolplay alphabet water cards.

I like that these cards are attached, so it’s less likely they’ll get lost. Plus, he can’t draw on the walls, doors, or floor.

They don’t use ink, just water, so they are safer than other markers. Each card is double-sided with letters on the front and words on the back, to help your toddler learn the alphabet, then transition to reading.

Coolplay Alphabet Water Cards Price

Related Post: The 25 Best Travel Toys for Toddlers

Double-Sided Busy Boards

Busy boards are one of my favorite toys for toddlers. They help them learn hand-eye coordination, problem-solving, fine motor skills, and getting dressed.

This double-sided busy board is perfect for toddlers learning how to tie their shoes, button their shirts, and zip up their jackets.

This learning toy also comes with a travel bag for your little one to carry.

Double-Sided Busy Boards Price

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Baby Travel Checklist: What to Pack When Traveling With Children
Wipes, lots of them. A changing pad. Diaper cream (no more than 3.4 ounces if you're flying by plane) Two bibs. Three baby blankets that you can use as burp cloths or to cover yourself up with while breastfeeding. Two bottles (if you use them) Change of clothes for your baby.
22 Must-Have Baby Travel Essentials for 2024
The 22 Must Have Baby Travel Gear Items. 1. Baby Carrier for Travel. When it comes to getting around while traveling with a baby, I highly recommend a baby carrier. Under the category of infant travel essentials, I absolutely loved my Baby K'tan Wrap and would recommend it to anyone. I would walk our daughter to sleep before our family ...
40 tips for traveling with your baby or toddler
15 tips for traveling with a toddler or kid. 1. Pack plenty of toys and games. 2. Preload their tablets. 3. Don't forget the car seat. 4. Consider sleeping arrangements.
33 Essentials for Traveling with a Baby (& what to leave at home)
Jeremy and Baby A in Parque de las Palomas in San Juan, Puerto Rico when Baby A was about 8 months old! ... Hopefully this extremely long list of travel essentials with baby was helpful! My goal was to publish it before Baby A turned 1, and she's turning 1 this weekend … which gives me all kinds of feelings and makes me tear up whenever I ...
The Ultimate Packing List for Baby Travel (+printable checklist!)
Shirts & Onesies | Usually 2-3 tops, adding 2-3 more in winter months. Dresses or Rompers | Usually 2-3 for warmer destinations, because they're so easy to pack and don't require mixing and matching tops and bottoms. Socks | 2-3 pairs, even in the summer months in case we end up somewhere chilly.
Tips for Flying With an 8 Month Old Baby
How to travel with a 8 month old. Travelling with a 8 month on the plane means they will possibly be exposed to more germs than at home. Tray-tables, TV handsets, air vents etc can all be breeding grounds for germs. An 8 month old will be able to grab things more easily and reach out, so adding anti-bacterial wipes to your carry on is a good idea.
The Complete Baby Packing List for Travel
Whether you're bringing your own travel crib or using a crib provided by your hotel or resort, don't forget to pack your own crib sheets. My pick: Cuddly Cubs Pack 'n Play Sheets. Foldable Baby Chair/High Chair. If your baby is old enough to sit up, you'll need a foldable baby chair or high chair on your baby packing list. It may seem ...
The ONLY Baby Packing List YOU NEED (+ FREE printable)
In the baby travel checklist portion of our download, you'll see a timeline for booking your flights and whether you should be inquiring about a airplane bassinet for your baby. This will also get you thinking about whether you need to travel with a car seat or not. Our daughter in an airplane bassinet at 3 months old.
30 Baby Travel Essentials in 2023 (and Affordable Alternatives)
Over 10 trips — two of them international — and 24 flights with my now 8-month-old, these are the essentials I bring when we travel with our baby. Table of Contents. 1) LOTS of Diapers ... if you pump at all, these are so much easier for travel! 8) Portable Bassinet. We want to create a safe sleep environment on the road. Sometimes the ...
Ultimate Baby Packing List for Travel
Face Masks (paper or reusable) Phone & charger. Camera & batteries and/or charger. Camcorder or digital recorder & charger. Tablet/laptop and/or portable game device and/or e-reader, headphones. Power bar/extension cord. Pen & paper. Roll of duct tape (cover outlets, secure blind and electrical cords) Assorted plastic bags.
Baby Travel Checklist: Essential baby packing list for Flying With Baby
Flying with a Baby: Packing Checklist. For Baby (Carry-On): Nappies/Diapers: Pack enough for the flight duration, plus extras for delays (plan for 1 diaper per hour of travel) Wipes: Plenty of wipes for diaper/nappy changes and cleanups. Changing pad: Portable changing pad for easy diaper changes in airplane restrooms.
The ultimate packing list for traveling with a baby
Pack a daytime nursing bra, sleeping bra or tank, travel breastfeeding pillow (Boppy makes an excellent one Opens a new window I used on a plane with my then 4-month-old), and any nipple skincare products you use (creams, butters, pads, and the like). You may also want to bring some sort of shawl to drape over the baby for in-public feeds.
Ultimate Guide to Travel With a Baby: Including Expert Tips
Flying with my two month old infant. This post contains compensated links. Best Time to Travel with a Baby by Age (3 Months to 1 Year) ... but you'll still want to make sure you pack all the baby travel essentials that will make travel stress-free. A well-stocked diaper bag, a lightweight travel stroller, and baby carry-on essentials are ...
10 Baby Travel Essentials For Every Journey
Baby Travel Essential #1: A Baby Carrier. Being able to walk hands-free through crowds, upstairs, on and off public transport is a vital part of traveling with a baby, so without a doubt, a baby carrier tops our list as the most essential baby travel item. After trying several different types, our favorite brand has been Ergobaby.
47 Essential Items for Your Travel with Toddler Checklist
35. Baby gates or play space. Other items you may be able to rent while you are away are baby gates or a play space. However, if you will be staying with family or friends that may not be an option. So, add it to your travel with toddler checklist, even if that means to inquire about it when booking your trip. 36.
21 Must-Have Baby Long-Haul Flight Essentials (Make It Easier!)
4) A Sky Mattress. A fantastic new product from SkyBaby is the travel mattress. It enables young babies to sleep snug on your lap during a flight. There's a loop underneath the bed that attaches to the lap belt to keep your baby secured. This means a peaceful sleep for the baby and minimal discomfort for mom or dad.
What to Pack for a Flight With Kids: A Complete Checklist
I Took My Parents and 10-month-old Baby on Our Dream Train Trip Through Europe ... The 8 Best Travel Cribs of 2024, Tested and Reviewed ... A front zipper pocket holds essentials like keys and cash.
Flying With an Infant: My Five-Hour Flight With an 8-Month Old
It would be nice if while flying with an infant he could just sleep the whole five-hour flight. But as parents, you know that this is unlikely. So, you'll have to keep them occupied. This can be a full-time job on the ground, and even more so in the air. We find it helpful to rotate activities every 30-minute or so.
The Ultimate List of Toddler Travel Essentials (+Toddler Packing List
Travel car seat. A car seat is typically going to be one of your toddler travel essentials, barring a few locations where you can get by just using public transportation. But if you're planning on getting around by car, you'll want a car seat to keep your little one safe. Strapped in their car seat is also the safest way for toddlers to fly ...
12 Toddler Travel Essentials
10. Happy Tot Pouches. Even if you aren't a typical "pouch family", these pouches are quick, easy, travel well, and are a great way to get some nutrients in when traveling. Eliza loves these and they have everything from sweet potatoes, squash, chia, and mango to carrots, spinach, green beans, and apples. 11.
The ultimate holiday packing list (travelling with a two-year-old and
Cardigan x 1. Socks x 6. Stuff for the house: Bed sheet x 4. Travel cot & mattress*. *Tip: Most airlines allow you take two pieces of baby equipment with you for free. We take a stroller and a travel cot. I don't find the mattresses that come with travel cots comfortable enough for the kids; they are very thin and hard.
20 Helpful Family Travel Products (From A Mom of 6)
1. Sound Machine or White Noise App. Not travel specific, but it's especially helpful for travel and is definitely one of our favorite kids travel accessories. All our kids sleep with some sort of white noise, and it's really useful in helping kiddos (and adults!) adjust to new time zones, sleeping locations, etc.
18 Toddler Road Trip Essentials
Related Post: 20 Toddler Travel Essentials. Reusable Storage Bags Price. TODDLER ROAD TRIP ENTERTAINMENT. Our #1 tip when traveling with a toddler is, ... We started traveling when our son was only two months old. When we sold everything and left California, he was only 14 months. He is now an energetic toddler (4 years old) that's been to 20 ...

What to Pack When Traveling With Baby

Go to Your Baby's Age

The Ultimate Packing List for Baby Travel (+printable checklist!)

Read on for our ultimate baby packing list of EVERYTHING you might ever need when traveling with a baby! (+a free printable checklist at the bottom of this post!)

Baby Packing List | Travel Gear

Baby Packing List | Clothes

Baby Packing List | Nursing & Feeding

Baby Packing List | Health & Bath

Baby Packing List | Play & Sleep

Baby Packing List | Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Free Printable Checklist: Baby Travel Packing List!

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30 Baby Travel Essentials in 2023 (and Affordable Alternatives)

1) LOTS of Diapers

2) A Comfortable Baby Carrier

3) Portable Changing Pad

4) Comfortable Diaper Bag Backpack

5) Portable bottle washing station and soap

6) Sanitizing Bags

7) Portable breast pumps

8) Portable Bassinet

9) White Noise

10) Portable Baby Monitor

11) Portable Highchair

12) Nail File

13) Bottles or spoons appropriate for age

14) Baby food, formula, or cooking supplies

15) Medications, nasal aspirator, and thermometer

16) Portable toys

17) Baby-safe sunscreen

18) Baby-safe insect repellant

19) More baby clothes than you think you’ll need!

20) Umbrella for shade or rain/snow

21) Pacifiers

22) Car Seat

23) Lots of bibs and burp cloths

24) Hat (for sun or cold)

25) Consider bringing your own detergent

26) Swim gear (life jacket, bathing suit, bathing diapers)

27) Portable baby activity center

28) Portable baby bath

29) Travel Stroller

30) Book(s)

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The Best Baby Packing List: The Mother of all Packing Lists!

Gone are the days of traveling light!

Baby Packing List Printable Version:

Have Baby Will Travel’s Mother of All Packing Lists

Have Baby Will Travel’s Mother of all Packing Lists:

TOILETRIES:

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MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS:

SPECIFICALLY FOR BABY!

This Baby Packing List for Travel Is Crazy!

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