What to Pack When Traveling with Baby
Traveling with kids can be stressful, but it doesn't need to be. The key to a stress-free journey with kids is to ensure that you have everything your baby will need to ensure a happy and safe trip. If you're wondering what to store in your baby's bag to ensure you and your comfort on the duration of your travels, here's a complete guide on the things you need to pack when traveling with a baby.
What to Pack in a Carry-on Bag
- Infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen, depending on the baby's age
- Two baby bottles (if you use them)
- Food: two small jars of baby food per meal, plus snacks if your baby already eats solid foods; easy-to-eat granola and cereal bars for you; formula if you're not breastfeeding
- Lots of baby and antibacterial wipes
- Change of clothes for you (in case your baby spits up -- or worse) and your baby
- A couple of favorite toys and books plus a few brand-new ones
- Large ziplock bags to store soiled clothes in
- Two days and nights’ worth of diapers and additional in case if you're stuck en route.
- Several pacifiers (if your baby uses one)
- Three baby blankets to use as a burp or to cover yourself with while breastfeeding
- A changing pad
- Cell phone and cell phone charger
- Two bibs
What to Pack on Your Baby's Suitcase
- Portable feeding seat (if your baby is sitting up and eating solids)
- Infant utensils
- Diaper cream
- Baby wash
- Portable cooler and ice packs
- A bottle brush
- Diapers and wipes
- Baby food: a few jars
- Clothes, socks, bottles, or shoes: two outfits each day while you are away and two extra ones.
- A first-aid kit: Pack any medications your baby might need, bandages, an antibiotic ointment, your pediatrician's number, and outlet covers for baby proofing.
- Breast pump, plus storage for milk; or formula
- Ziplock bags to store snacks
- Sunscreen
- Lightweight stroller or baby carrier
- Playmat
- Body lotion
- Car seat (Even if you're not traveling by car!)
- Monitor (if your baby will be sleeping in another room)
Toiletries
- Nail clippers
- Shaving gear
- Glasses and/or Contact lens paraphernalia
- Tweezers
- Earplugs
- Hair product (shampoo and conditioner)
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- Toothpaste, toothbrush, dental floss
- Insect repellent
- Sunglasses
- Skin cream, makeup
Documents and Money
- Calling card & number for out-of-country calls
- Drivers’ license
- Credit cards, cash, debit cards (make sure these work where you’re visiting)
- Address/phone book
- Vaccination documents, if needed
- Photocopies of passport & drivers’ license, packed separately, in case ID is lost or stolen
- Passports
- Trip itinerary & print outs of e-tickets or reservation confirmations
- Health & travel insurance documents
This baby packing list has everything and anything you might need on your travels. You can make a checklist out of these and cross out what you don't need to bring. You'll also discover that you'll need fewer items as your baby grows older.