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Traveling with a baby requires thoughtful preparation. When your carry-on bag includes drool, naps, and late-night milk demands, packing becomes a task far beyond simply grabbing a diaper bag and heading out.
But fear not, adventurous parents! While your little ones come with significant requirements, having the right gear allows you to turn chaos into calm. In fact, infants are one of the easiest ages to travel with, especially if you are breastfeeding, as you won’t need to pack as much.
We’ve been traveling with both our daughters since they were eight weeks old, and we’ve compiled a list of essential travel gear for infants to help you travel smoothly.
Babies may not pack light, but with the right essentials, they travel remarkably well.
1. Baby Bjorn Miracle Carrier
- Easy to wear and simple to put Savannah in.
- Secure design for peace of mind.
- Allows Savannah to be close to us at all times.
- Designed to grow with Savannah, accommodating her until about 15 months old.
- She can face towards or away from us.
- My hands are completely free, making it easy to engage in other activities.
- Craig enjoys it too, relishing the daddy-daughter bonding time.
This carrier is also pediatrician-recommended with an adjustable design, padded waist belt, comfortable back support, and wide shoulder straps—ideal for long durations.
Although airlines often require you to take your child out for their flimsy seatbelts, this carrier is the next best option for safety.
Most importantly, Savannah loved it. She napped soundly while we explored Rotorua, much to the amazement of fellow tourists.
That night, she was not too happy to sleep in her cot afterwards, making us wonder if the Baby Bjorn had altered her sleep patterns! However, she returned to her routine by the next night.
I just wish they made adult-sized versions, so Craig could carry me around too!
2. Baby Bjorn Travel Cot Light
Packing used to mean lugging a bulky port-a-cot wherever we went—which was not only heavy but cumbersome to set up. The Baby Bjorn Travel Cot changed everything.
The cot comes in a lightweight bag (just 5 kg) that feels like carrying a laptop bag, and opening it is a breeze.
The cot sets itself up practically on its own!
The small, cozy design comforted Savannah, who preferred the snug fit to wider options.
The mesh sides make it easy to keep an eye on her while she sleeps, ensuring safety and comfort. I wholeheartedly endorse these products as essential travel items.
3. First Aid Kit
Everyone should travel with a first aid kit, regardless of whether you’re traveling with a baby. It’s a must-have item that’s often overlooked.
Pack important items such as infant acetaminophen, a thermometer, bandages, gauze, tweezers, hydrocortisone cream, antiseptic wipes, and any other essentials your baby may need. Consulting your pediatrician for tailored advice before you travel is always a good idea.
4. Travel-Sized Baby Toiletries
Don’t forget to bring travel-sized toiletries. Consider packing essential items, such as rash cream, baby shampoo, lotion, and body wash, using TSA-approved containers for your carry-on luggage.
5. Diaper Bag
A compact, well-organized diaper bag is crucial for travel. Look for one that includes a changing pad, has separate storage compartments for wipes and diapers, and fits easily in the overhead compartment. Lightweight options are best.
6. Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are invaluable for organizing your baby’s outfits, enabling easy access and reducing anxiety while locating items among your luggage.
7. Muslin Blankets
These versatile blankets can be used for nursing covers, sunshades, and even as makeshift mats to lie your baby down. They play a crucial role in daily life with a baby.
8. Sippy Cup, Snack Cup, Spoon
Always include your baby’s favorite sippy cups and snacks, as these may not be easily accessible abroad. Pack ample baby food and formula, too.
9. Portable Sound Machine / White Noise Machine
A portable sound machine can be particularly helpful on long travels to help your baby sleep well, especially in unfamiliar environments.
10. Portable Pacifier Sterilizer
This compact sterilizer is perfect for on-the-go cleaning of pacifiers and bottles, ensuring hygiene when traveling.
11. Silicone Bibs
When your baby starts to eat solids, silicone bibs catch messes effectively and are easy to clean—ideal for travel.
12. Baby Bottle Warmer
This portable bottle warmer simplifies the process of heating milk and baby food, eliminating any need for hotel kettles.
13. Breast Pump
A compact, hands-free breast pump makes it convenient for breastfeeding mothers to pump while on the move.
14. Toy from Home
Even though babies are often entertained by new surroundings, bringing a few familiar toys from home can provide comfort, especially during sleep.
15. Travel Stroller
Invest in a travel stroller that fits in the overhead compartment or packs tiny enough for easy transport. It makes moving around a breeze.
Baby Travel Gear Checklist
- Dish soap: one that doesn’t affect your baby’s skin.
- Diapers: Pack sufficient diapers for your entire trip, plus a few extras.
- Baby wipes: Essential for quick clean-ups and diaper changes.
- Changing pad: A portable pad helps in changing diapers on the go.
- Baby clothes: Bring enough outfits for each day, including sleepwear and layers.
- Blankets: A few lightweight ones are useful for swaddling or shading.
- Feeding essentials: Nursing cover for breastfeeding and sufficient formula or bottles for bottle-feeding.
- Burp cloths: Handy for cleaning up spit-ups and spills.
- Baby food and snacks: Enough solid food for your baby’s needs.
- Bottled water: Always good to have clean water available.
- Pacifiers and favorite toys: Helps soothe and entertain your baby when traveling.
- Baby carrier or sling: Keeps your hands free while exploring.
- Sunscreen: Protect your baby’s delicate skin from sun exposure.
Final Thoughts
That wraps up your essentials for baby travel! Babies don’t require much; they thrive on your warmth and companionship. Fortunately, many hotels and rentals provide necessary amenities, reducing your load.
However, having quality essentials makes your parenthood journey easier. Always check your baby’s specific needs and anticipate what items you’ll require when traveling to new locations.
It’s easier to be over-prepared than underprepared, especially if your little one tends to be fussy. Remember, unless you’re headed to a remoteness, there will always be drug stores nearby for any last-minute necessities.
Learn more about the pros and cons of traveling with a baby in our guide on tips for traveling with a baby.
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