There are two types of pre-parenthood people: those who meticulously pack days in advance, checking items off a list as they go, and those who throw everything into a suitcase hours before departure, hoping for the best. If you fell into the latter camp before you had a baby, it’s almost guaranteed that you’re now firmly in the former.
Packing for a baby is like playing a game where the stakes are high, and losing means losing your sanity. Who would have thought that forgetting something small, like a pacifier, could result in hours of incessant crying? It’s auditory and emotional torture that will have you desperately trying to locate the nearest store to replace the pacifier you left at home. Once you experience that, the next trip will have you carefully reviewing your packing checklist weeks before you’re due to leave. Luckily, we’ve created the ultimate packing checklist for your baby, so all you have to stress about is making sure the items are actually in your suitcase before you leave.
FEEDING
- formula
- bottles
- bottle brush
- dish soap
- breast pump + parts
- storage bottles and/or bags
- burp cloths
- bibs
- bottle warmer
- baby food
- baby utensils/dishes
- cooler bag
- nursing cover
- travel high chair
DIAPER & BATH
- diaper bag
- diapers
- wipes
- diaper rash cream
- portable changing pad
- baby wash
- baby lotion
- baby toothbrush
- baby toothpaste
- baby bathtub
SLEEPING
- travel crib
- crib sheets (tip: our changing pad covers fit most travel crib mattresses!)
- sleep bag
- swaddle
- white noise machine
- baby monitor
HEALTH & SAFETY
- thermometer
- medicines
- nail clippers
- mineral sunscreen (only mineral sunscreens, not chemical sunscreens, are recommended for babies and toddlers)
- pacifier
- nasal aspirator
- first aid kit
- baby brush
- sanitizing wipes
TRAVEL
- car seat
- car seat cover
- travel stroller
- baby carrier
- stroller blanket
- stroller rain cover/mosquito net
- stroller fan
- baby passport or birth certificate
- travel-friendly toys
CLOTHING
It’s worth noting that, depending on the climate of your travel destination, you may not need all of these items. For instance, if you’re headed somewhere cold, you can skip the swimsuit and diaper. For humans so small, babies sure need a lot of things. If you’re wondering how you’re going to fit all these items into your suitcase(s), you may want to try and save space where you can by following these tips:
1. Ask your hotel what amenities they offer
Call your hotel and ask the front desk if they can provide a crib. Even if the answer is yes, you may want to still consider bringing your pack-and-play for your little one. Many hotels stock as many cribs as are needed on average, and it’s not guaranteed that one will be available for use during your stay. If you are allowed to reserve one, however, you can cross that heavy, bulky item off your list!
2. Buy what you can at your destination
It’s instinct to pack as many diapers as you think you’ll need for the duration of your trip. However, you may be forgetting that you can purchase many items at your destination. Things like baby lotion, baby wash, diapers, and even baby food, can all be found easily in stores. Pack only what you’ll need for travel (either for a car ride or the plane), and buy the rest there.
3. Check what you can and can’t bring on your airline
There’s nothing worse than lugging along a heavy car seat through the airport, then finding out it isn’t actually FAA-approved. Do your due-diligence, and check with your airline for all the items you can and can’t bring. For instance, breaking the 3-1-1 rule for liquids is permitted when traveling with infants. You are allowed to bring ice packs, cooler bags, breastmilk, formula, and baby food in reasonable quantities. Just double-check with your airline first and know your rights!
