Traveling with an Infant can feel daunting, but with the right preparation and essential items, it can be an enjoyable and stress-free experience. Whether you’re planning a road trip, flying to a new destination, or simply visiting family, having the right gear is key to ensuring comfort, safety, and convenience for both you and your little one. In this article we’ll cover everything you need to pack, along with some top product recommendations to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.
Why Preparation is Crucial When Traveling with an Infant
Traveling with an Infant presents unique challenges, from keeping them entertained to managing their specific needs for food, sleep, and hygiene. Preparation is essential to:
- Reduce Stress: Knowing you have everything you need helps you focus on the experience instead of worrying about missing items.
- Ensure Safety: Traveling often means navigating unfamiliar environments. Proper gear ensures your child’s safety on the go.
- Maintain Comfort: Babies and toddlers thrive on routine. Packing familiar items helps them feel secure and comfortable, even in new surroundings.
- Save Time and Money: Having all essentials on hand prevents unnecessary purchases or delays during your trip.
Packing Checklist for Traveling with a Baby or Toddler
Diaper Bag Essentials
A well-stocked diaper bag is non-negotiable. Pack the following items:
- Diapers (enough for the duration of your trip plus extras).
- Baby wipes for diaper changes and general cleaning.
- Changing pad for on-the-go diaper changes.
- Diaper rash cream.
- Plastic bags for disposing of used diapers or soiled clothes.
Feeding Supplies
Feeding can be tricky when traveling. Be sure to include:
- Formula or breast milk (if applicable).
- Bottles and nipples.
- Portable bottle warmer.
- Bibs and burp cloths.
- Snacks for older babies and toddlers.
- Sippy cups or spill-proof cups.
Clothing and Comfort Items
Always pack extra clothes for unexpected spills or weather changes:
- Layered clothing suitable for your destination.
- Comfortable pajamas.
- Socks and hats.
- A favorite blanket or stuffed toy for comfort.
Sleep Essentials
Ensure your child sleeps comfortably during your travels:
- Travel crib or playpen.
- Portable white noise machine.
- Sleep sack or swaddle for babies.
- Blackout curtains for hotel stays.
Transportation Gear
Whether you’re driving or flying, these items are essential:
- Car seat that meets safety standards.
- Stroller or lightweight travel buggy.
- Baby carrier or sling for hands-free mobility.
Health and Hygiene Products
Keep your child clean and healthy:
- Baby-safe hand sanitizer.
- Baby lotion and sunscreen.
- Thermometer.
- Basic first aid kit.
- Baby medicines
Entertainment and Distraction Tools
Long trips can get boring for little ones. Pack:
- Age-appropriate toys and books.
- A tablet with pre-downloaded games or videos.
- Travel-friendly coloring books and crayons.
- Something new that they have not played with before (check out my article on kids’s toys here for ideas)
- Do not forget their favorite snuggle blanket or comforters!
It’s a long list of things to take with you, and at times it will feel like you are transporting your whole home! Trust me, it does get easier as your children get older. I always think, it is better to have your usual items with you, so that you and baby have less disruptions and you get to enjoy your travels. Here’s some of my top items to help you…..
Top Product Recommendations for Traveling with an Infant
Skip Hop Forma Diaper Backpack
The Skip Hop Forma Diaper Backpack is a must-have for parents on the go. With its spacious design and multiple compartments, it keeps all your baby’s essentials organized and within reach. It includes insulated pockets for bottles, a cushioned changing pad, and lightweight, durable fabric that’s easy to clean.
- Why It’s Great:
- The hands-free design makes it ideal for busy parents, while its stylish look ensures you don’t sacrifice aesthetics for functionality.
- Two insulated side bottle pockets; Elasticized interior pockets and cell phone pocket; Changing pad pocket holds tablets and laptops up to 15”
- Includes 2 storage cubes making it easy to organise/grab the things you need quickly
- Includes a changing pad too!
Buy Now: Skip Hop Forma Diaper Backpack
Baby Trend EZ Ride Travel System
This travel system includes a stroller and infant car seat, offering convenience and safety for families on the move. The stroller features multiple recline positions, a five-point harness, and a large storage basket. The car seat is easy to install and provides excellent support for newborns and infants.
- Why It’s Great:
- All-in-One Convenience: The Baby Trend EZ Ride Travel System combines a stroller and car seat for seamless transitions, making every family outing a breeze from car to pavement.
- EZ-Lift™ Infant Car Seat: Designed with parents in mind, this ultra-lightweight car seat makes carrying your baby easier while ensuring top-notch safety and comfort for little ones.
- Smooth and Comfortable Rides: With a multi-position reclining seat, plush padding, and soft head support, your baby can enjoy every journey while you enjoy superior manoeuvrability.
- Parent-Friendly Features: A large storage basket, covered parent tray with two cup holders, and height-adjustable handle mean you’ll always be prepared and comfortable on the go.
- Safety First Design: Exceeds federal safety standards and includes a 5-point harness and EPS energy-absorbing foam for peace of mind wherever the road takes you.
Buy Now: Baby Trend EZ Ride Travel System
Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed
This portable bed is a game-changer for overnight stays. The Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed is lightweight, durable, and comes with safety bumpers to keep your child secure while they sleep. It inflates quickly with the included pump and folds compactly for easy storage.
- Why It’s Great:
- 4-Sided Safety Bumpers for Maximum Protection: Keep your toddler secure with extra-tall, extra-long bumpers on all sides—perfect for worry-free sleep at home or on the go.
- Durable and Puncture-Resistant Design: Made with 40% thicker inlay-enforced vinyl and reinforced weld seams, this bed is virtually puncture-proof, ensuring it stands up to all your family adventures.
- Quick Inflation and Easy Storage: Inflates in under 30 seconds with the included electric turbo pump. When it’s time to pack up, simply deflate, fold, and roll it into the XL travel bag for ultimate portability.
- Perfect Transitional Bed Solution: Ideal for kids who have outgrown their crib but aren’t ready for a full-size bed—use it during the “in-between” months, at grandma’s house, on camping trips, or family holidays.
Buy Now: Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed
Munchkin Brica Fold N’ Go Travel Bassinet
This lightweight and portable bassinet is perfect for newborns. The Munchkin Brica Fold N’ Go Travel Bassinet features a sturdy frame, breathable mesh sides, and a comfortable mattress. It’s easy to fold and carry, making it ideal for travel. I bought this as a baby shower gift for a girlfriend as her parents are a 3hour car ride away, and she tells me it’s ‘just brilliant’ as it’s so ‘light and portable but cosy and safe.’
- Why It’s Great: Compact and Ultra-Portable Design: The Munchkin Brica Baby Travel Pod folds flat and weighs next to nothing, making it easy to carry for quick trips or extended holidays. One parent calls it a “game-changer for travelling light” and praises how it fits easily into luggage.
Safe and Cosy Sleeping Space: With breathable mesh sides and a soft mattress pad, it offers a snug, secure sleep spot. A reviewer shared, “It gave me peace of mind knowing my baby had a safe place to rest no matter where we were.”
Quick Setup and Easy Fold: Sets up in seconds and folds back down just as easily, perfect for parents on the move. One customer described it as “ridiculously simple to set up – even with a baby in one arm!”
Versatile and Durable: Great for indoor naps or outdoor adventures, with a sturdy design that holds up well over time. A glowing review notes, “After dozens of trips, it still looks brand new—easy to clean and built to last.”for infants, no matter where you are.
Buy Now: Munchkin Brica Fold N’ Go Travel Bassinet
For a wider range of bassinet options click here.
If you have a toddler, a larger option may be more suitable; there are so many to choose from: take a look here.
J.L. Childress Car Seat Travel Bag
Protect your car seat during flights with the J.L. Childress Car Seat Travel Bag. This durable bag features padded shoulder straps for easy carrying, heavy-duty fabric for protection, and a universal fit for most car seats. It’s a must-have for air travel.
- Why It’s Great: Ultimate Protection for Your Car Seat: The J.L. Childress Car Seat Travel Bag is made with durable, water-resistant fabric to guard against dirt, moisture, and damage during travel. Perfect for keeping your car seat clean and secure through airport handling.
- Comfortable and Convenient Transport: Features padded, adjustable backpack straps that make carrying a bulky car seat hands-free and hassle-free. Parents love how it leaves their hands free for luggage and little ones.
- Universal Fit and Easy Storage: Designed to fit most car seats, with a large opening and dual zippers for easy loading. When not in use, it folds down for compact storage in your luggage.
- Customer Testimonial: I don’t have this product so can’t give a personal testimonial but I found so many happy customers for this protective bag, with this one being typical “This bag saved my car seat during multiple flights! It’s sturdy, easy to carry, and folds up nicely when I’m done. I can’t imagine travelling without it now.”
Buy Now: J.L.Childress Car Seat Travel Bag
Tips for Specific Modes of Travel
Traveling by Airplane
- Plan Ahead: Notify the airline if you’ll need a bassinet or assistance with boarding. Some airlines offer early boarding for families with young children.
- Pack Essentials: Keep items like diapers, wipes, snacks, and toys easily accessible in your carry-on.
- Ease Ear Pressure: Have your baby suck on a pacifier or drink during takeoff and landing to reduce discomfort. Consider the Philips Avent Soothie Pacifier for a trusted and baby-friendly option.
- Hack: Bring a lightweight stroller that folds compactly, such as the Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller, to simplify airport navigation.
Traveling by Car
- Install the Car Seat Properly: Double-check that the car seat is securely installed and appropriate for your child’s size and weight. The Graco 4Ever DLX 4-in-1 Car Seat is a versatile option that grows with your child.
- Schedule Breaks: Plan for regular stops to let your toddler stretch, snack, and play.
- Hack: Use a backseat organizer, like the Lusso Gear Car Seat Organizer, to keep toys, snacks, and wipes within reach.
Traveling by Boat
- Safety First: Always use a child-sized life jacket, even if it’s not required. The Stearns Puddle Jumper Life Jacket is a reliable choice for toddlers.
- Plan for Motion Sickness: Pack medication or natural remedies recommended by your pediatrician.
- Hack: Choose a cabin with easy access to an outdoor area to soothe a fussy baby, and consider a portable bassinet like the Munchkin Brica Fold N’ Go Travel Bassinet for nap times.
Traveling by Bus
- Choose Your Seat Wisely: Sit near the front for a smoother ride and easier access to the driver or exits.
- Keep it Compact: Keep your baby close and comfortable with the Ergobaby Omni 360, offering all-position carrying from newborn to toddler with built-in lumbar support for parents. The breathable cool air mesh keeps you and your little one cool on every adventure!
- Hack: Bring disposable placemats, like the Neat Solutions Table Topper, for any surfaces your toddler might touch. These are fun (and keep your child entertained), keep surfaces germ free and easily disposable, plus they are BPA & PVC free.
Traveling on Foot
- Use a Comfortable Carrier: A baby carrier or sling ensures hands-free mobility while keeping your baby close. As someone who struggles with back pain frequently, I am a personal fan of the Ergobaby Omni 360 which I mentioned above but another great option is The BABYBJÖRN Baby Carrier Mini which is lightweight, easy to use, comes in 20 colors and a variety of fabrics and fantastic value.
- Stay Weather-Ready: Carry a lightweight rain cover or sunshade for your baby, such as a breathable stroller weathershield.
- Hack: Invest in a stroller hook, like the Dreambaby Strollerbuddy Clip, to carry bags or extra items easily.
Tips for Stress-Free Travel with a Baby/Toddler
- Plan Ahead: Research your destination to identify child-friendly amenities and activities.
- Stick to a Routine: Try to maintain your child’s regular feeding and sleeping schedule.
- Pack Smart: Focus on multi-functional items to save space.
- Arrive Early: Whether flying or driving, give yourself extra time to avoid rushing.
- Stay Calm: Babies and toddlers can sense stress. Stay calm to help them feel secure.
FAQs About Traveling with a Baby/Toddler
What’s the Best Way to Feed My Baby During Travel?
Use pre-measured formula or breast milk in bottles for convenience. For toddlers, pack easy-to-eat snacks like crackers, fruit, and pouches. Use a cool bag wherever possible just to protect food temperatures from the heat.
How Do I Keep My Toddler Entertained During Long Flights?
Bring toys, books, and pre-downloaded videos or games. Interactive activities like coloring books can also help. Don’t forget their favorite comforter but also pack a small bag of things they have not seen before; this creates intrigue and can keep them entertained for hours. I love small toy animals, a few bricks, small puzzles and sticker books.
What Should I Do if My Baby Gets Fussy on a Plane?
Try to address their basic needs first (hunger, sleep, or diaper change). Feeding during takeoff and landing can help with ear pressure. Don’t be afraid to stand up and walk about, moving is a great pacifier. If the seat belt signs are on, I find headphones with comforting music a great option for toddlers.
How Many Diapers Should I Pack for a Trip?
Pack enough for the duration of your trip plus extras for emergencies. A general rule is one diaper per hour of travel. Don’t forget wipes, disposable diaper bags and hand sanitizer.
Is a Travel Stroller Necessary?
Yes, a lightweight travel stroller is highly convenient for navigating airports, attractions, and other destinations.
I have recommended Baby Trend EZ Ride Travel System as it’s the perfect choice for all types of travel and really well endorsed by my girlfriends and 20k reviewers on Amazon.
Check out this advisory article from the American Academy of Pediatrics if you have more specific questions on travel safety.
Conclusion
Traveling with a baby or toddler can be a rewarding experience when you’re well-prepared. By packing essential items and using the right gear, you can ensure your child’s comfort and safety while reducing stress for yourself. Explore the recommended products above to make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. I wish you and your children, many happy hours of travelling!
Start planning your adventure today, and create unforgettable memories with your little one!
If you found this article useful, please share the link below with your friends and hop over to
https://www.brightfutureparents.com/ for my latest articles and recommendations.
This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through these links. Thank you for supporting my website….
