Oh, the joy of packing for a trip. It's really the only part that's not so fun! But it's just a necessary part of traveling that you have to do. And with a baby, it's even more important. Pre-kids you could pretty easily go out and buy what you needed if you forgot something, but that's much tougher with a little one. But not to worry! We got you, Mamas! With a little extra organization on your part, and the use of our checklist below, you'll be ready to take on travel like the mom boss that you are!
Checklist: Packing for Travel with Your Baby
Packing Checklist for Feeding Your Baby:
- Formula or Extra Breastmilk
- Extra Baby Bottles or Sippy Cups
- Breastpump - and all of the other components that go with it (such as storage bag, car adapter, and ice packs.)
- Portable Bottle Warmer - we recommend the Baby's Brew and have it warmed and ready before you head off
- Food Grade Wipes – ones like these can be used to easily clean bottles, breast pumps, etc. to prepare them for reuse
- Burp Cloths
- Nursing Cover
- Baby Food and spoon or pouches - if your baby is eating solids
- Wipe-Off Bibs
Packing Checklist for Diaper Changing:
- Diapers - ALWAYS bring extra.
- Changing Pad
- Diaper Rash Cream
- Baby Wipes
Packing Checklist for Cleanliness and Health:
- Disinfecting Wipes - to clean off plane areas, etc.
- Infant Tylenol – even though your baby isn’t sick, you never know when your baby might start running a fever or pop a tooth.
- Band-Aids
- Hand Sanitizer- An absolute must for parents hands during these unprecedented times!! (Not for baby hands, soap and water is best for littles!)
- Tissues or Boogie Wipes
- Inflatable Baby Bathtub - because bath time can be tricky while traveling!
- Travel-Sized Baby Shampoo and Lotion
Packing Checklist for Soothing Comforts and Entertainment:
- Extra Pacifiers - if your baby takes one.
- Toys, Stuffed Animals, and Books - both new for interest and old favorites
- Blankets – bring a couple different kinds
- Swaddle or Sleep Sack
- Teether
Packing Checklist for Transporting Your Baby:
- Car Seat - We don't recommend relying on car rental companies for a safe one so bring your own.
- Baby Wearing Carrier
- Umbrella stroller - You want a stroller that's easily portable, so it's recommended to have one that's specific to traveling. Though having one with a little basket underneath is nice.
Checklist for other Essentials:
- Clothes - Bring more than you think you'll need. I also like to sort my children's outfits into baggies to make daily dressing a cinch.
- Sunhat - Even if you're going somewhere colder, chances are you'll still be in the sun and this will keep it out of your baby's eyes.
- Pack and Play - You'll want this for both sleep and safe play
Also consider your specific destination and any extra items you'll need due to certain weather conditions or activities you'll be doing such as a coat, gloves, sunblock, swimsuit, etc.
Our Best Packing Tips Checklist for Traveling with a Baby
Now that we've covered everything that you'll need to bring on your trip, we have some tips for you to consider while you pack.
- Print this checklist and use it! We definitely recommend you cross the items off the list as you pack them. Then there's no "Home Alone" syndrome where you're sitting on the airplane with the worrisome feeling that you forgot something important.
- Count your items carefully. Don't just grab a big handful of diapers and expect that's going to be good enough (trust me - I've tried this and it backfired.)
- Pack in advance - Trying to pack right before you leave is stressful and will end up in missed items.
- Bring extra baby clothes in your diaper bag. Because babies are notorious for blow-outs and spit-up!
- Pack any liquids in plastic bags. You'll have to put them in quart-sized bags for air travel anyway, but this also prevents messy leaks. Remember that liquids such as lotion need to be less than 3 ounces if in a carry-on, but breastmilk can be carried on in larger quantities. Just be sure to declare it at the security checkpoint.
- Be prepared for different moods from your baby. Traveling can be stressful for them and things like air travel can make their ears hurt. Having items in your carry-on to counteract these discomforts will make traveling a lot more enjoyable for everyone.
Traveling with a baby is certainly not the easiest thing in the world, but it also doesn’t have to be difficult with a little focused planning. Using these baby travel checklists will mean you’re prepared for whatever your baby needs. We also suggest checking out our other article, “Tips for Traveling With Your Baby” to make sure your trip with your little one is truly unforgettable.
FAQs
Q: How to travel with a baby?
A: The keyword here is flexibility. Traveling with a baby will probably look a lot different than the trips you took prior to their arrival - especially the longer ones. Make sure to pack extra snacks, food and supplies.
Q: When can you travel with a baby?
A: Depending on the mode of transportation, you can travel with a newborn. For road trips, you’ll likely have to stop often and feed and soothe the baby. For travel that requires an airplane, most pediatricians recommend waiting until the baby is at least 4-6 weeks old before flying.
Q: Does my baby need a passport?
A: Yes, regardless of age, every US citizen must have a passport to travel outside the USA. Getting a passport can take time, so make sure you allot enough time before you need to travel. Passports for children under age 16 are valid for only 5 years. You’ll need the baby's birth certificate, a photo of the baby and both parents will have to authorize the issuance of a passport.
Q: Does a baby need a passport to travel domestically?
A: A baby does not need a passport to travel within the United States, but you should carry a photo or copy of the birth certificate. TSA does not require children under the age of 18 to show an ID, but it's good to have some form of identification incase of an emergency.
Q: When can a baby travel by plane?
A: Newborns have a developing immune system so traveling by plane can increase the risk of getting sick. Baby’s ears are also very sensitive, so the cabin pressure can be painful for the baby. Most pediatricians recommend waiting until the baby is at least 4-6 weeks old before flying.
Q: How do you warm a bottle on a plane?
A: The Baby’s Brew is the perfect portable bottle warmer to take on an airplane. It holds a charge for up to 12 hours, which means it will be ready to warm any of your baby’s bottles throughout the flight and afterwards. This bottle warmer is also perfect for breastmilk because you can choose the ideal 98.6 degree temperature for breastmilk and it uses slow-heat technology that preserves nutrients. It will also work great for trips when you're often on the go.
Q: What is the best age for baby to travel?
A: Babies can travel at any age. There are many factors to consider when deciding on when to travel. Travel can disrupt sleep patterns and can be more work with a baby, but it can also be a wonderful experience for the family.
Q: How can you make flying easier on baby?
A: We suggest trying to time your baby’s feed with take-off. Even if it’s not technically “meal time” you may try offering your little one a bottle. This can help with plugged ears and make for a peaceful transition into your flight.
