overnight trip with newborn

What to Pack When Traveling With Baby

Fact-checking standards, latest update:, when can you travel with your baby, read this next, what to pack for your baby in a carry-on bag, what to pack in your baby's suitcase.

Happy travels!

What to Expect the First Year , 3rd edition, Heidi Murkoff. WhatToExpect.com, Flying With a Baby? Here's What to Know Before You Go , September 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Do Babies Need Passports? , October 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Best Travel Toys for Babies , February 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Baby Products You Can Take on a Plane , September 2020. American Academy of Pediatrics, Flying with Baby: Parent FAQs , November 2019. American Academy of Pediatrics, Is It Safe for Families to Travel Now? , August 2021. American Academy of Pediatrics, Travel Safety Tips , August 2018. American Academy of Pediatrics, Is It Safe for My Baby to Travel in a Car Seat a Few Hours at a Time? , August 2021. Transportation Security Administration, Traveling with Children . Federal Aviation Administration, Flying with Children , March 2021. Mayo Clinic, Is Air Travel Safe for an Infant? , October 2019.

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The Ultimate Packing List for Baby Travel (+printable checklist!)

Over the years, i’ve written a lot about how to travel with a baby..

Between leaping head first into baby travel when Evelyn was 5 weeks old, to taking our special needs baby Sophie on several trips around the country, we’ve become pretty well-acquainted with the world of travel with a baby by now.

Truthfully, traveling with a baby is not all that bad. But it does require a ton of preparation for all the things that you might possibly need.

We’ve covered what to pack in your carry on before, along with everything you need to know before flying with a baby . I’ve even shared our favorite baby travel gear and travel-friendly toys .

But one thing I haven’t covered? A comprehensive, everything-you-must-pack guide to make the whole trip with baby go extra smoothly!

We were reminded of just how much stuff one little human can require as we prepared for our month-long adventure around Southern California . Our packing list felt endless . And I can say pretty confidently that we left nothing behind.

So let me spare you the stress of wondering “what am I forgetting” ?

Read on for our ultimate baby packing list of EVERYTHING you might ever need when traveling with a baby! (+a free printable checklist at the bottom of this post!)

Pin it for later:.

Baby Packing List | Travel Gear

First things first, the big stuff !

You may not need all of these items for every trip, but for the most part, we bring this same travel-friendly baby gear just about everywhere we go:

Baby Carrier | A baby carrier is a must, even if it’s nothing more than an efficient way to move through the airport. I know not all kiddos love the carrier, but we find that having both a carrier and stroller available when we travel with Sophie is essential. You just never know when you’ll run into a place with lots of stairs or uneven sidwalks, so it’s good to have a back up that will keep you moving freely. We started out with the ErgoBaby , but made the switch to the more lightweight and compact MiaMily toddler carrier with Infant Insert and absolutely love it. Still on the fence? Read up and compare all of our favorite carriers for babies and toddlers here .
Stroller | Even though our carrier is indispensable, we like to have options. For newborns, I adore the Doona Car Seat & Stroller 2-in-1 . I only wish this had been around when our girls were babies because it takes so much hassle out of traveling with a baby! For us personally, we love and recommend the lightweight and carry-on compliant Babyzen YOYO+ , which is great for older babies who can sit up on their own (don’t forget the puchase a compatible backpack carry bag – so worth it)! For newborns you can add on the bassinet pack onto the YOYO+, just keep in mind you will have to gate check the stroller with this add-on.
Car Seat | Depending on where you’re going, you may or may not want to bring the car seat. If you will need one, the Maxi Cosi and Nuna Pipa are two that can adapt to a YOYO+ without the bassinet add-on (just get some adapters like these , and you’re good to go!). For older babies, a popular choice is the Cosco Scenera Next , which is super lightweight at just 10 pounds. I recommend getting a car seat bag to keep it clean while flying, and if you’re worried about it getting banged up by luggage handlers, you can upgrade to a padded car seat bag .
Travel Crib | We’ve always brought our own travel crib, mostly because I want our kids to feel the comfort of a familiar sleeping environment, no matter where we are. We’ve been especially happy with our Baby Bjorn Travel Crib , which has held up with our travels all over the country these past 6 years. For infants, you can get away with a more compact option, like this Travel Pod Bassinet . And if you’re in a pinch, most family-friendly hotels will offer cribs for free, or you can rent one from a baby gear rental company, like BabyQuip . Read up on all our favorite baby travel cribs here .

Pro Tip: Don’t want the stress of traveling with all your gear? Use BabyQuip and get bulky items like cribs, strollers, high chairs, car seats and so much more delivered straight to your hotel or rental!

Baby Packing List | Clothes

Sure, babies require a lot of stuff to pack, but the one area where they don’t take up much space in the suitcase: clothes!

I use these packing cubes for everyone in the family and almost everything for baby can fit into just one:

Pants & Leggings | Usually 2-3 pairs. In colder months I’ll skip the rompers and dresses, and add more leggings, pants and sweaters.
Shirts & Onesies | Usually 2-3 tops, adding 2-3 more in winter months.
Dresses or Rompers | Usually 2-3 for warmer destinations, because they’re so easy to pack and don’t require mixing and matching tops and bottoms.
Socks | 2-3 pairs , even in the summer months in case we end up somewhere chilly.
Booties or Shoes | I’ve recently become obsessed with little baby shoes, but I try to stick to one simple pair of baby moccasins that match everything for travel, like these from BirdRock Baby .
Hat | A must, no matter where you’re traveling, whether a sun hat for the spring and winter, or a fuzzy hat for the fall and winter.
Swimsuit | Only if necessary, of course. These boy and girl options from Rufflebutts are our favorites.
Pajamas | I stick to just 2 pairs of footie pajamas (plus a 3rd pair worn on our travel day).

This might not seem like a lot of clothes, but if we’re traveling for more than 5 days, we’ll wash and rewear items to keep our packing light. This means making sure we have access to laundry facilities while we travel (whether it be an Airbnb with a washing machine, hotel with a laundry room, or a wash and fold laundry service nearby).

Baby Packing List | Nursing & Feeding

Things change quickly with a baby, and depending on their age and feeding habits, you may need any of the following:

Bottles | We’ve always traveled with just two bottles and been fine. Tommee Tippee and Dr. Brown’s are our favorites.
Drying Rack | I love our OXO travel drying rack ( similar option here ); it’s come in handy more times than I can count! We also have a larger version of this Boon travel drying rack at home, and would highly recommend either. It’s truly one of the items you don’t think you need until you’re balancing wet bottles around a hotel sink.
Dish Soap | Never fails, I always forget dish soap! If you’re staying in an Airbnb, there’s no need to bring your own (unless you’re particular about what you use). But if you’re staying in a hotel, for sure pack this little travel-size one for washing bottles!
Nursing Cover | There’s a good chance you’ll have little privacy for nursing during travels, and at the very least a nursing cover can help with getting little ones to fall asleep in busy places. Or for a lighter solution, a muslin swaddle is great and doubles as a blankie.
Breast Pump & Supplies | It’s a pain to lug around for sure, but if you’re going to need it, consider investing in a few pieces to make pumping on-the-go easier: a special backpack and battery pack . (and good news, the airline won’t count this against your carry on luggage allowance)
Cooler Bag | We love a little cooler bag with ultra-thin ice packs , or if you need room for more bottles, this Medela cooler bag is a great option too.
Formula Dispenser | For babies on a formula-fed diet, this little guy makes mixing bottles on the go so much easier .
Tall Insulated Mug | This simple, yet useful item is a must for an on-the-go bottle warmer. Just ask your airport coffee shop to fill it with piping hot water after you get through security, and then dip your bottle in to warm milk up in no time!
Wipe-Clean Bib | Once baby is into solids, a wipe-and-reuse bib is awesome for on-the-go feedings.
Travel Spoon | Our favorite is still this one that comes with a little case for easy storage, or try these squeeze pouch food adapter spoons .
Snack Catcher | This travel container is perfect for little cereals you don’t want spilled all over.
Squeeze Pouch Baby Food | If you’re feeding while traveling, skip the mess and squeeze it from pouch form onto the spoon!
Sippy Cup | We’ve tried many of the years, and these classic sippy cups from Munchkin or these sippy cups with weighted straws are both at the top of our list of favorites.
Bottles Wipes | It’s tough to clean bottles, pacifiers, and spoons on-the-go, but these bottle wipes are a safe and easy way to do it when you don’t have a sink handy.
Travel High Chair | If you have the space for it, I can’t recommend this travel high chair enough, which folds down flat for packing. You could also opt for a cloth seat harness for an even lighter, more compact option.

Baby Packing List | Health & Bath

Diapers | My rule of thumb is to pack a maximum of 8 diapers in the baby backpack and then buy more as soon as we arrive.
Travel Wipes Case | These no-frills travel wipes cases have become my favorite over the years. Like diapers, I load one up with as many as I can fit and then buy more once we’ve arrived in our destination.
Dirty Diaper Baggies | These dirty diaper baggies have also come in handy more times than I can count.
Baby First Aid Kit | We keep a super simple kit that includes only the basics, like travel-size diaper rash cream , infant pain reliever , a few bandages , a small thermometer , nail clipper , skin cream , etc. For all those other ‘what if’s’, we’ll buy it at our destination if needed.
Prescription Medicines | Keep liquids in their original containers to avoid any issues with TSA, and for anything needing kept cold, we use our bottle cooler bag with ultra-thin ice packs .
Sunscreen | These pocket sunscreen sticks are my absolute favorite because they’re easy to apply and take up so much less space.
Mosquito Repellent | This natural one is our favorite. No chemicals or stink!
Sanitizing Wipes | Especially good for wiping down a dirty airplane seat. I always keep a small travel-size pack in the diaper backpack.
Hand Sanitizer | For obvious reasons, I always keep a travel-size hand sanitize r clipped to the backpack.
Baby Shampoo & Body Wash | This 2-in-1 combo is our favorite, filled in a small GoToob+ travel container .
Brush or Comb | Of course.
Inflatable Travel Tub | Finally, this handy inflatable bath tub is an absolute favorite of ours and has gotten way more use than I ever thought it would. It’s definitely worth the purchase if you don’t have access to a tub or your baby is not sitting up on their own yet.

Read Next: Everything You Need to Know Before Traveling with a Baby

Baby Packing List | Play & Sleep

Play Mat | We’ve stayed in lots of Airbnbs with hardwood floors and little comfortable space for baby to play. I so wish this fold-and-go baby gym was around when my kids were little (or this similar travel-friendly option ).
Small Toys | I try to keep toys to a minimum, mostly because when you’re traveling, you’re out and about a lot anyway. Sassy brand makes a ton of my favorite simple baby toys, and I keep a little collection in one of these mesh storage bags for easy packing.
Pacifiers & Pacifier Clips | We find these pacifiers with these clips to work great!
Swaddle Blankets | Another must-pack item, Aden & Anais makes our favorite muslin swaddle blankets that double as a nursing cover or burp rag too.
Crib Sheet | Whether you bring your own travel crib or use the hotels, we like to have our own crib sheet. This crib sheet that’s designed specifically for portable cribs has traveled with us again and again.
White Noise Machine | We love our Shusher and I swear it has made all the difference in helping our babies fall asleep in new places. This portable sound machine is another favorite among traveling moms.
Favorite Blankie | Even though it can be a bit of a pain to travel with, having a soft baby blanket sure is nice for wrapping baby up on a cold airplane or having a familiar comfort from home.

FreshlyPicked Diaper Backpack | Passport Cover | Reusable Storage Bags | Dropper Stopper Tether (similar options here and here )

Baby Packing List | Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Diaper Backpack | A good diaper bag is essential, and I can’t recommend going with a backpack style enough! Having your hands free, especially in airports, is a necessity, and this FreshlyPicked diaper backpack has travelled with us all over the world!
Birth Certificate or Passport | Did you know some airlines require you to show a birth certificate for your lap baby? To be safe, I always carry a copy in my wallet. And if you’re planning on traveling internationally, be sure to start the process for your baby’s passport as soon as possible.
Dropper Stopper Baby Tether | From toys, to bottles, to snack cups, this is our favorite item for keeping all of our baby essentials from hitting the dirty airplane floor (similar options here and here )
Plastic Storage Bags | Whether one-time use, or an eco-friendly reusable , we’re always finding a need for the modest plastic storage bag. Whether for dirty clothes from a blow out incident, saving leftover snacks, keeping trinkets and keepsakes together, we’re always finding a new use for these.

Free Printable Checklist: Baby Travel Packing List!

It doesn’t matter how many times we’ve traveled with a baby, I’m always bound to forget something!

After many missed essentials, I finally created our own baby travel packing list ! We use it for every trip, and now you can use for yourself!

get it here!

Thanks for being a subscriber!

PS. You can also find this and all of our printable family travel planning tools exclusively for subscribers in our free resource library .

What are your must-have packing list items when traveling with baby?

Wife and mom to two sassy little girls, Laura has been sharing her family's travels here on Our Next Adventure since 2016! Though lots has changed in both our family and the world of travel over the years, one thing remains: we love exploring new places together!

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My Top 5 Sleep Tips for Traveling With a Baby

Last updated January 2nd, 2024 .

Article by:

Cara Dumaplin

RN, BSN, Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant

Just so you know, I do review everything I recommend. When you buy through links on this page, we may earn a commission. Learn more about affiliate links

Traveling can be such an exciting adventure. However, if you are traveling with a baby, “vacation” can often feel like more “work” than staying home.

A mom of a 9-month-old told me, “Cara, I’m thinking of canceling our trip. We were so sleep deprived for the first 7 months of my daughter’s life. The last 2 months of her sleeping has been so great that I just don’t want to mess it up.”

Want to hear my advice?

Please, please, please do NOT cancel your trip. Do NOT let your fear of sleepless nights rob you of priceless memories with family and friends. Please, GO!

Let me share some of my tried and true sleep tips for traveling with a baby.

How do I get my baby to sleep while traveling on vacation? # anchor

1. start with a well-rested baby. # anchor.

Even before we travel, we have schedules full of loose ends to tie up, errands to run, and packing to do. This can make your days hectic and also interfere with your little one’s sleep. Do your best to protect your baby’s sleep time before your trip so that you don’t start your travels with a sleep deficit. An overtired baby nearly guarantees a rough trip.

2. Plan accommodations carefully. # anchor

If your baby is accustomed to sleeping in her own space at home, you will want to TRY to continue this while traveling. Room-sharing can lead to tough nights if your baby is not accustomed to sharing her space.

If you’re staying at a hotel, try to book a room with a separate living area or attached room. I know this is not always feasible, so in a pinch, the bathroom of your hotel room works just fine too, as long as it has adequate circulation!

If you’re staying with friends or family, talk to them in advance about the possibility of separate room accommodations for you and the baby. (Even an office works great as a makeshift nursery!)

Maintaining your baby’s own sleeping space is the best-case scenario for making sure EVERYONE gets a good night of sleep! If this simply isn’t an option, try to provide a barrier – or at least a considerable distance – between your bed and the baby. Check out the Slumberpod too (Code CARA saves you 5%).

3. Pack the essentials to recreate the baby’s bedroom. # anchor

Try to replicate your baby’s normal nighttime surroundings as closely as possible. Bring your:

Sound machine

Lots of pacifiers

Sleep sack/swaddle

Portable blackout curtains (use code Cara for 10% off)

Bedtime routine essentials

If you’re staying at a hotel, you can request an actual crib. For some babies, this can work much better than a Pack ‘n Play. Also, check out Baby’s Away for renting a crib (or other baby equipment) if you are staying with family.

4. Maintain your bedtime routine while away. # anchor

A familiar bedtime routine cues your baby’s brain to the coming sleep. If you typically do a bath, give a mini massage, dress in jammies, feed her, and then read a book before placing her in the crib, continue to do that while you travel. This predictable series of events remind her that bedtime is coming, even if her surroundings are slightly different or if bedtime is later than normal. Consistency in this routine is key!

5. Try to get one good nap a day. # anchor

During trips, we often try to pack in as many activities as possible. Unfortunately, your carefully planned fun can turn into an absolute disaster with a cranky, overtired baby. If your little one is taking more than one nap a day, attempt to get a solid morning nap at the hotel (or at the home where you are staying). Send someone out for a coffee run, plan out your day, or just enjoy some relaxing quiet time, all while allowing your baby to get that restful nap.

Starting the day rested can allow future naps to happen in the car seat, in grandma’s arms, or in the stroller.

Remember, traveling can be tiring! You’ll need to be flexible when it comes to how your plans fit into your baby’s nap schedule . If your baby is under 5 months, sleepy cues are important to keep your baby from becoming overtired. If one of your baby’s naps is short or on the go, you may need to make bedtime 30-60 minutes earlier than usual.

Our travel includes a time change, how do we help our baby adjust to a new time zone? # anchor

If possible, keep your baby on his own time zone . Holiday travels and even most vacations are often short trips, and shifting times can be difficult—even for adults!

If you’re traveling west to east, the time difference can actually make your life easier. The few hours you get traveling east will allow you to put your baby down for a “late” bedtime, even though it will feel like the same bedtime to your baby. So if your baby’s bedtime is typically 7 p.m., maybe it gets “moved” to 8 p.m. And the added bonus is you won’t have to leave your fun evening plans in the middle of dinner!

If you are traveling east to west and the time difference just isn’t feasible to maintain your same time zone, try adding in a catnap in the late afternoon to help your little one make it to bedtime.

Other parents find just pushing bedtime an hour or so later helps when the time change is just two hours. With all the new surroundings and constant activity, your baby may do okay staying awake for a bit longer. This “splitting the difference” works for many babies.

When adjusting to a different time zone , make sure to use light to your advantage! During your baby’s awake time, be active and exposed to as much daylight or even bright indoor light as possible to adjust to the local time. As for early morning wakings: please be sure to keep the baby’s room as dark as possible. This will help to keep your baby from waking up quite as early in an unfamiliar environment. (Here are some fabulous travel blackout shades (use code Cara for 10% off.)

Help! My baby won’t sleep on vacation, what should I do? # anchor

First, take a deep breath. Vacations can be tricky for baby sleep. Read through my tips above and see if there are any tweaks you can make.

Just remember, vacations are temporary, and you can leave any tricky sleep behind when you return home. If you need a plan to help you when you get back, check out my 5–24 Month Collection .

If you have been consistent at home with your baby’s sleep and you’re having a bit of trouble, now is the time to let go a bit. Relax and have fun; enjoy your family time. You have a great sleeper, so don’t stress over how much (or how little) sleep your baby is getting. This is a short-lived time with your family and friends. Your baby will get back on track when you return home. Yes, your sleep consultant is giving you this advice!

Please Note: If you took my newborn class, you don’t have to stop implementing your newborn tips during your travels! The same techniques can certainly still be applied on your trip. Remember—you can even let your sweet little one nap in your mom’s arms most of the day without ruining the night sleep you’ve established.

Where should my baby sleep while on vacation? # anchor

Take a look at tip #2 above. My general recommendation is to have your baby sleep like they do at home. If they share a room with you at home, they should also share one with you on vacation. If they have their own sleeping space at home, try to give them their own sleep space on vacation – as much as this is possible. Just keep in mind that even on vacation all of our same safe sleep rules apply.

How do I help my baby sleep on a plane? # anchor

Bring anything you might need to make your baby’s sleep on the plane successful: sound machine (if it’s portable, but your phone can work in a pinch), sleep sack / swaddle, books, pacifiers , bottle.

Whenever you expect your little one to sleep, take your baby through a mini version of their normal sleep routine. If your sleep routine includes a bath, skip that part but still change their diaper, offer a feeding, read them a book, or whatever your routine steps are shortened down.

At the end of the day, all you can do is try your best. It’s your job to offer the nap, and it’s your baby’s job to take it, so don’t stress about it. Remember, what happens on vacation stays on vacation.

What do I do when I get home from traveling with a baby? # anchor

Once you get back from vacation, return to your normal routine and leave any tricky vacation sleep behind. To help you get back to your normal routine, refer back to the information you have from the 5–24 Month Collection . Pull out your sleep plan, read it again, watch your class, and get right back on it. Be 110% consistent. Typically within 3-5 nights, you’ll have your great little sleeper back.

Case in point: Remember that 9-month-old whose mom was considering canceling their travel plans?

She admitted it was the best trip ever; her family simply fell in love with her daughter! Now, the trip wasn’t 100% blissful: Naps were rough on a few days. They had some middle-of-the-night wakings and twice fed her in the night (even when Mom knew she wasn’t hungry).

Guess what?!? Within just 3 nights of returning home, they were back to 10.5-12 hour nights simply by following their plan.

If your nights are tough before traveling, you can still apply the tips above to help you survive your travels. When you return from your trip, I can help. The 5–24 Month Collection gives you a step-by-step plan to follow. It’s a balanced approach to teaching your little one to sleep in her crib while still providing hands-on reassurance. It’s a plan to restful nights AND peace of mind knowing that your baby can quickly recover from an exciting vacation.

Whatever happens with sleep while you are traveling with your baby, I know it will be worth the memories. You’ve got this.

If you're overwhelmed, exhausted, or just not sure where to start. I was there too. Let me show you everything you need to confidently handle sleep so your whole family can thrive!

Select your child's age to get started:

Are you ready to have a great little sleeper?

The ultimate packing list for traveling with a baby

Be prepared for just about everything with this tried and tested list.

What to pack when traveling with a baby

What to pack for your baby in a carry-on, free printable baby packing list.

Pre-kids, my husband and I were the people who'd show up at the airport 40 minutes before a flight, breeze through TSA pre-check, refill our water bottles, and walk right onto the plane with our carry-ons.

After I had two children, this strategy pretty much went out the window. It didn't matter if we were going away for one night or two weeks: when we started traveling with a baby , we packed nearly everything we owned. It took four years and countless trips, but I've since perfected the art of flying with a baby .

Ahead, find out exactly what you'll need to pack for a baby.

To make the packing process easier on yourself, start with the BabyCenter-approved list below. You can print it out and make any changes as needed – such as eliminating items your baby has outgrown, adding new things they need, and making adjustments based on the length of your trip and the climate.

It's helpful to start gathering supplies about a week in advance, laundering anything that needs to be cleaned (such as a pack 'n' play sheet), and shopping for used-up supplies (such as travel-sized toiletries).

If you're looking for more guidance, get extra-detailed tips below.

Travel gear

To get your baby from point A to point B, you'll need a few basics.

Travel stroller

If you're running late to catch a flight, it's much easier to push your baby in a lightweight umbrella stroller than to carry them through a long terminal. Some travel strollers are Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-approved and fold to fit in the carry-on bins on board, but most get gate-checked. Remember to bring the travel bag that came with it to protect the stroller from damage.

Add bag hooks and a stroller caddy (the Colugo Opens a new window one even doubles as a fanny pack), and utilize the under-basket storage. Some travel systems allow you to hook the car seat on top of the stroller, meaning you have one less item to lug around.

While you can rent car seats at your destination, experts highly recommend bringing one with you. "Renting one often comes with challenges, including risking it not being appropriate for age, weight, or height," says Chandani Patel DeZure, M.D. , a pediatrician and BabyCenter Medical Advisor . "In addition, it is safest to fly on an airplane with a baby in a car seat – just make sure the car seat is FAA-approved."

You can also use it for car rides to and from the airport.

Car seat bag

One of the best perks of traveling with a car seat is using a car seat bag, a giant lightweight backpack that fits a car seat. Usually, you can stuff extras – such as a package of diapers, swim floaties, or other odd-shaped items – that won't neatly fit in a suitcase.

Baby carrier

Parents swear by baby carriers for airport travel. I find them most effective for babies under 6 months . (After that, they get heavy!) Just don't baby wear on the plane during take-off or landing, per the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

The same sleep safety rules apply when you travel: Your baby should sleep alone in a crib or bassinet with nothing in it. Borrow a crib, bassinet, or pack 'n' play from your hotel, or try a reputable rental company (such as BabyQuip Opens a new window ).

Consider bringing a SlumberPod Opens a new window , which is a blackout tent that goes over the pack 'n' play. If your baby sleeps best in dark spaces, you can also pack travel blackout curtains or tape black garbage bags over the windows.

Don't leave home without the sleep accessories your baby is familiar with, such as a white noise machine, sleep sack or swaddle, and pacifier.

Breastfeeding, pumping, formula bottles, and solids feeding supplies

Depending on how you're feeding your child, you'll need certain gear. (And if you have a newborn, you'll also want a burp cloth on hand.)

Breastfeeding

Pack a daytime nursing bra, sleeping bra or tank, travel breastfeeding pillow (Boppy makes an excellent one Opens a new window I used on a plane with my then 4-month-old), and any nipple skincare products you use (creams, butters, pads, and the like).

You may also want to bring some sort of shawl to drape over the baby for in-public feeds. (This doubles as a way to keep both of you warm on chilly flights).

I've also traveled with breast pumps – both the Spectra (an electric pump ) and the original Elvie (a wearable pump). If the latter works for you, I highly recommend it as I was able to use it during the flight . You'll also need pump cleaning supplies (such as a brush, soap, drying rack, and on-the-go cleaning wipes), a pumping bra , milk storage bags , and bottles to feed the baby. And don't forget to bring a charger for the pump!

If you plan to freeze any extra milk, bring a freezer bag and ice packs. Frozen breast milk is easier to get through security than fresh milk, which may require testing. Read more about breast milk travel regulations .

Formula feeding

Ensure you're packing enough formula for the trip by measuring what your baby eats in a day and then bringing extra. You'll want more than enough in case of travel delays or spills. For in-flight travel, you can pre-measure formula , and store it in a Ziploc bag or bottle. Bring filtered water, or buy it at the airport to make a bottle in a snap.

You'll also need to bring bottles (I typically bring two), nipples, and bottle washing supplies (like a brush, soap, and drying rack). If your baby prefers warmed milk, you can pack a thermos. For your travel day, fill it with hot water and use that to warm up a bottle on the go. There are also travel bottle warmers .

First and foremost, you'll need to bring enough food for the travel day. (Squeeze pouches are always a great idea.) Additionally, pack kids' silverware ( spoon and fork), grippy plates and bowls, a sippy cup for water, spill-proof snack cups, and food storage containers. We always travel with an easy-to-wipe silicone bib (which also can save an outfit if your baby is a messy eater).

Unless your baby is going to sit on your lap for every meal (which might be miserable for you), you'll need to rent a high chair or bring a fold-up one (like the Bombol pack-up booster Opens a new window , which packs flat).

The easiest way to get a high volume of diapers to your destination is to send a package to the hotel or cruise line in advance. Otherwise, throw a sleeve or two in the stroller bag or car seat bag (as diapers take up precious space in suitcases) and buy more when you get there.

If you are bringing diapers with you, count how many diapers your baby typically uses in a day. Then add enough for at least one extra day, since you never know how a trip will pan out. Here are some quick calculations, but note that every child is different:

Newborns: eight to 12 diapers per day

2-3 months: eight to 10 diapers per day

3-6 months: seven to nine diapers per day

6-12 months: five to seven diapers per day

You'll also need wipes (throw extra packs in the car seat bag!), a travel changing mat (or disposable changing pads), diaper disposal bags, and diaper creams (Aquaphor, butt paste, etc.). Remember to bring swim diapers if you're going somewhere with a pool or beach .

Clothing, outerwear, and shoes

Little ones, especially newborns, go through multiple outfit changes a day thanks to spit-up, blowouts, and other unexpected events. Pack about two outfits per day and extra pajamas (as the same principles apply overnight). Don't forget socks, shoes if you have a walker, and layers. (Babies get cold and hot quickly.)

If you're packing for a cruise or headed somewhere tropical, toss in a swimsuit, hat, and UPF clothing. For cooler climates, make sure your baby has cozy sweaters, booties, and a warm hat.

Some hotel rooms only have showers, and if your baby typically washes in a tub, you'll need to get creative. We've used an oversized kitchen sink as a makeshift bathtub, and we've also rented baby tubs or brought an inflatable one. Plan this in advance.

You'll also want to bring travel baby shampoo , body wash, and lotion – especially if your little one is sensitive to fragrance. We've also brought a baby towel and familiar bath toys to help our kids adjust to a new setting.

Health and safety

You won't regret traveling with a baby first aid kit. It can include band-aids, infant pain reliever, any other medicine or prescription ointments your baby uses, a thermometer, insect repellent, and baby-safe sunscreen. Pro tip: Throw in a few vomit bags for potential motion sickness incidents.

Consult with your child's pediatrician with any questions for this packing category.

Entertainment

What you pack comes down to parental and baby preferences. A tablet, preloaded with shows and movies, can be helpful to get through a flight or long car ride. If screentime is not on your agenda, try books, activity pads, coloring books (specifically the "magic marker" ones Opens a new window for less mess), and reusable stickers (great for sticking on plane or car windows). (Check out these kid-friendly car games for more family fun.)

Once you're there, you might want to have tummy time mats , sand toys , or baby dolls on hand. You can have toys delivered to your hotel from services like BabyQuip Opens a new window , or pack a selection of "surprise" playthings yourself. And don't forget your baby's favorite stuffie or lovey!

You'll never be prepared for all situations, so level-set expectations, but you can still be very prepared for most!

To start, your baby will need a passport if you're traveling internationally .

Also, grab extra diapers (at least a day's worth), a pack of wipes, a travel diaper pad, and diaper creams for mid-flight diaper changes . Pack an extra change of clothes for both you and the baby, because if they're sitting on your lap, any mishaps (spit-up, throw-up, or massive poop) may end up on you, too. Plastic bags – to catch vomit or store stained clothes – also come in handy.

Bring a full day's worth of food and some extra, as well as anything you need for breastfeeding and pumping. If your flight is delayed or you hit road trip traffic, you'll be so grateful to have a pump, milk bags, and a cooler on hand. (It's happened to me.)

Add in the first aid kit and meds. Then stuff as many toys as you can in the extra space left.

Print or download our BabyCenter-approved checklist for easier packing when traveling with a baby.

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BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world. When creating and updating content, we rely on credible sources: respected health organizations, professional groups of doctors and other experts, and published studies in peer-reviewed journals. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're seeing. Learn more about our editorial and medical review policies .

American Academy of Pediatrics. 2023. Tips for Traveling with Young Ones this Holiday Season. https://www.aap.org/en/news-room/news-releases/health--safety-tips/american-academy-of-pediatrics-tips-for-traveling-with-young-ones-this-holiday-season Opens a new window [Accessed February 2024]

American Academy of Pediatrics. 2023. Safe Sleep. https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/safe-sleep/ Opens a new window [Accessed February 2024]

Transportation Security Administration. Undated. Is Breast Milk, Formula and Juice exempt from the 3-1-1 liquids rule? https://www.tsa.gov/travel/frequently-asked-questions/breast-milk-formula-and-juice-exempt-3-1-1-liquids-rule Opens a new window [Accessed February 2024]

Lauren is a New York-based content director, writer, and brand consultant. She is a #girlmom to a school-age daughter and a toddler.

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75 Tips for Traveling With a Baby (Free Packing Checklist)

When traveling with a baby, there are so many little things to remember (and forget!). Taking a family vacation with an infant, baby or toddler doesn’t have to be a challenge when you know what to bring. This guide to packing a diaper bag and must-have baby travel essentials for little ones will help!

Mom Rewritten uses affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the links in these posts. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see the Privacy Policy and Disclosures tab.

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. This article originally published September 5th, 2016 and has been updated and republished with a new date.

Best Tips for Traveling With a Baby

I remember the first time I took my baby on her first extended vacation. There was so much to remember when I packed! Not only was I figuring out my own suitcase there was also my baby’s supplies to tote.

Are you overpacking for your baby? Or not packing enough? It’s a careful balance to be sure. You don’t want to be that traveler jamming the car full of unnecessary items because you think the baby needs it all . This article will help you pare down to the basics that will still allow you to travel with ease.

Disney Trip FREE Printable - Packing List for Kids that they can use to pack for themselves!

How to Pack for a Trip With a Baby

Whether headed to the beach, camping, city or theme park, when traveling with a baby in diapers you’ll need the same important essentials.

Keep reading for the helpful vacation guide with tips on taking the baby on a trip. There’s also a free baby packing list you’ll want to print and use when filling the luggage.

I’m sharing suggestions for toys, swim and bath products and road trip requirements. And of course figuring out that all important number of how many diapers to pack for your travels!

There are lots of things to kids and families to do in Palm Springs! Find out the top 8 desert adventures including golfing, museums, Jeep tours in the desert and how to cool off (water park!). There are lots of tips on the best place to stay and what to do in the California desert of Palm Springs with kids of all ages.

Baby Travel Essentials – Can You Buy It When You Get There?

Depending upon where you’re going, you might need to pack everything you’ll need upfront. This could be because the location in which you’re headed might not have the supplies you need. You may not want to replenish or purchase when you get there because of higher cost concerns.

If possible, consider these options which include shipping the items or buying there. If you know the products you need are readily available in stores, wait and buy it when you get there. That’s a decent idea if you don’t want to have to pack and tote bulk consumable items like baby formula and diapers.

Another option is to have the items shipped to your destination. If you’re staying with family, that’s an easy choice. Purchase items online and have them sent ahead of your trip so the packages are there before you arrive.

Call hotel locations ahead of time to verify what their policies are for accepting deliveries. Some hotels will have requirements for the shipping label, timelines for holding packages or may charge a fee.

Traveling Alone with a Baby to Disney? Check out these 20 trusted tips for solo travel with a baby.

Diapers and Wipes are Top of the Baby Packing List

When it comes to traveling with a baby, it’s easy to over pack. But when diapers are concerned, you never want to be stuck without! This is how to figure out how many diapers to bring with you on the trip.

How Many Diapers to Bring on a Trip?

So, how can you figure out how many diapers to bring with you on a trip? In the week leading up to your vacation, take note of how many diapers you go through each day with your baby.

I kept a notepad and a pencil on the shelf above my baby’s changing table to make a tally. Average the number of diapers you’ve used over the week to figure out a daily amount and then multiply that by the number of days you’ll be away from home.

Just to be on the safe side, put in about two extra diapers per day of your trip…just in case!

Do the same for the baby wipes but definitely bring additional extras of these. WaterWipes baby wipes are convenient for cleaning messy fingers and faces as well as bottoms!

Best Travel Clothes for Babies and Toddlers

When traveling with your baby in diapers, consider these logistics for choosing the best vacation outfits. Pick breathable fabrics that will be comfortable during long drives in their car seat.

Only choose separates that make diaper changes easy. Avoid outfits with buttons or snaps on the back of the clothing. These can be uncomfortable for babies to lay on for long periods of time.

Zip Footie Pajamas – For infants, skip those fancy outfits and go straight for the pajamas all day. Avoid multi-piece outfits that will bunch up and cause discomfort for a baby. Grab this organic cotton zip-up footie from Primary in all the colors!

One-Piece Rompers – When traveling with a baby in diapers, snap-crotch bubble onesies are probably the most ideal when the weather is warm. Look for long sleeved one-piece jumpers with a snap crotch when it’s chilly. Toddlers will appreciate the comfort factor. You’ll appreciate the quick diaper changes with clothing that’s simple in design!

My go-to for the best children’s clothing is Primary . They offer gender-neutral mix and match pieces in every color of the rainbow. Lots of coordinating outfits to match older siblings too! Use code AFT20PCT to save 20% and receive free shipping on your first order.

Sun Hat – If you’re planning to be outdoors, a baby sun hat is required. Opt for a stylish version like this with a wide brim, breathable materials and a chin strap to keep it secure.

Must-Have Baby Travel Toys

Older kids can leave their toys behind when they go on vacation. But it’s important to pack a few toys for the baby whenever you leave home. Toys can help with boredom, especially if the baby is kept in their car seat or stroller for longer than usual periods of time.

If your baby has a few favorite items, be sure to bring those on the trip. In addition purchase a few new baby travel toys for variety while traveling. When your child gets fussy, surprise them with one of the new items!

Travel Teething Toy – If you have a teething baby you know that gnawing is a big deal! This teething mitten offers up safe-to-chew bumpy grooves and ridges. The adjustable Velcro strap secures the glove to baby’s hand so the toy is less likely to fall on the floor or get lost.

Car Seat Toys – This soft cotton hanging toy mobile spiral-wraps around the handle of the car seat with dangling toys for baby to play with.

Electronic Baby Toy – Babies love the stimulation of lights, sounds and music! VTech rules when it comes to educational electronic baby toys. This small-sized Happy Lights Bear serves up songs, phrases and flashing lights. The cuddly bear Velcros to the stroller or car seat.

If you’re traveling on public transportation or on a plane, avoid anything with annoying or loud sounds so as not to disturb other travelers! Relegate noisy electronic items to the rental car only.

I have an extra tip to minimize the noise of electronic toys. Place a piece of electrical tape over the speaker to quiet the sound when there’s no volume control.

Baby Toy Straps – Keep toys from dropping on the ground with silicone baby toy straps . Secure rattles, chew toys and sipper cups to the car seat, high chair or stroller to prevent them from getting lost or dirty.

Baby Travel Essentials for the Hotel

One of the most challenging things about traveling with a baby is sharing a hotel room. When baby goes to sleep, generally everyone else has to turn off the lights and be quiet too! Consider booking a suite with a separate bedroom door. This way if you have older children, they don’t have to go to sleep when baby does.

Inflatable Bath Tub – If baby is too small to sit up or too big to fit in the bathroom sink for a wash, consider packing this. The inexpensive Inflatable Duck Tub will make bath time easier and it won’t take up any extra space in your luggage.

Touch-Control Night Light – Moving around blindly in a dark hotel room when baby wakes at night is recipe for disaster. You don’t want to turn on a light and risk waking everyone else up either.

Away From Home Sleep Needs for Little Kids

Whether driving or in a crib, nap and sleep routines are important to maintain when traveling with babies. A disrupted sleep pattern can cause havoc, resulting in overly grouchy behavior. Aim to travel during regular nap times in the hopes that baby will sleep while driving or flying.

These baby travel essentials can help regulate naps and nighttime sleep for your child:

Travel safety with kids is priority #1. Check out these practical and inexpensive ways to keep kids safe on vacation.

Car Seat Head Support – If you’ve ever rigged up your own head support for the toddler sleeping in a car seat, this is the road trip product for you! This simple to install Car Seat Child Head Support keeps toddlers heads from slumping when their napping.

Sun Shade – Nobody likes the sun in their eyes, especially young kids who are trying to rest. Block out the rays and heat during long car trips with a simple window sun shade . This one stretches to fit and has suction cups to secure on the glass.

Sleep Sack – Skip the blankets in the crib and use a muslin sleep sack for bedtime. The fabric is soft, breathable, and lightweight but will keep baby warm enough if the hotel air conditioning is running.

For colder nights or in outdoor locations like on a camping trip bundle toddlers in a warmer sleeper sack . This version has foot openings for walking babies. There’s diaper access via a reverse zipper.

White Noise Machine – If the strange noises at a hotel are interrupting your baby’s usual sleep patterns, this VTech White Noise Sound Machine is perfect. Petite-sized for travel with a rechargeable battery, it features both gentle lullabies and ambient sounds.

Baby Travel Essentials for Flying

Sucking can help relieve ear pain with babies during elevation and descent on an airplane. Chewing gum can help older kids and adults. For babies try using a bottle, pacifier or breastfeeding. My friend Leslie at Trips With Tykes has tons of helpful tips for flying with a lap child .

Pacifier – Each baby seems to have their own preference of pacifiers. And some babies (like my daughter) refused to use one. Have a few on hand just in case.

If traveling with a pacifier is essential, make sure the Nuk doesn’t get lost on your travels! Secure pacifiers to baby’s clothing with one of these convenient pacifier clips .

Keeping a Toddler Happy While Traveling

Whether you’re flying or hitting the open road, keeping toddlers happy while traveling can be tough! I recommend scheduling your travel times during their regular nap schedule. If you can ensure that your younger child takes a nap this can make everyone’s trip go a little smoother!

Toddler girl playing with plastic toy animals on airplane

Car Seat – If you’re flying somewhere and will need a car seat when you get there, bring the seat onto the plane. Your toddler will have a comfortable and safe place sit in the airplane. And bonus, they’re more likely to nap if they’re latched into their car seat!

My favorite car seat to travel with is the inexpensive Cosco MightyFit 65 Convertible Car Seat . Rear-facing for babies from 5-40 pounds or forward-facing for children 22-65 pounds. It’s also reasonably lightweight and easy to install into a rental car.

Child in pink Costco Scenera car seat on an airplane

WikkiStix – The perfect travel craft, WikkiStix are mess-free and easy for little ones to use. These soft and pliable bendy sticks adhere to each other or to a smooth surface for ideal quiet time entertainment.

Reading Material – Pack a few baby books but make them lightweight and able to hold up to wear and tear. The Indestructibles Baby Book series are great to entertain toddlers with a story on the road. Or baby can just chew on the pages, whatever!

Swimming and Sun Tips When Traveling with a Baby

If you’re planning a full day in the sun, make sure that your baby is well protected from sunrays and heat. This means extra hydration, just like you should be getting.

Babies should be nursing or bottle feeding more often. Older babies and toddlers should drink water or Pedialyte to keep them from getting dehydrated. These are the baby travel essentials when you’re outdoors or traveling during the hot summer season:

Swim Diapers – A necessary packing item if you plan to let baby swim. Whether in the hotel pool or at the beach swim diapers are a must.

If you prefer an eco-friendly option, choose a reusable swim diaper like this version with side snaps. This preference works best if you have access to a bathroom toilet and washing machine while traveling.

Pop Up Beach Tent – An open sided Beach Shelter offers an escape from the direct sun, essential for babies and young children. This version has a flat bottom to keep sand away, windows for ventilation and a hanging hook for a battery operated fan. It folds down like a car sun shield into a tiny carrying bag so it’s excellent for travel to any beach locale.

One-Piece Rash Guard – Choose a swimsuit with built-in UPF 50+ sun protection. This Primary long sleeved rash guard is all one piece but still has a snap gusset for fast diaper access.

Pool and Beach Baby Travel Essentials

Depending upon the age of your child, one of the following versions of pool floaties might work for your needs. Naturally, these floaties aren’t a replacement for supervision. Parents should remain within arms reach of their baby around water.

Baby Spring Float – This SwimWays Baby Spring Float offers younger babies a gentle way to float on the water while keeping their face dry and out of the sun. The product is also easy to close and carry so it’s ideal for taking on a trip.

Kid’s Life Jacket – This SwimWays Sea Squirts Learn-to-Swim Life Jacket is not inflatable and therefore will take up more space in your suitcase. But if you’re planning to be in the water a lot, the safety factor of this Coast Guard approved product might outweigh. Be sure to read the description on weight and size to ensure this will properly fit your child.

Suncreen – A travel essential for everyone, whether the sun is shining or behind clouds. Look for varieties like Babyganics Mineral Sunscreen . Ask your pediatrician to know their recommendations for application of sun protection lotion onto newborn skin. Reapply often, especially after water exposure.

Sunglasses – Headed to the beach or some place where the sun is particularly bright? A pair of baby sunglasses can help keep crankiness down when the sun is out of their eyes.

Baby Travel Essentials for Feeding Away From Home

Whether you’re feeding from the bottle or the breast, eating in a restaurant or on the road, these are some of the must-have items when traveling with a baby.

What Can Babies Do at Disneyland? -Answers to the Top 4 Questions

As a nursing parent, you can breastfeed your baby any where you wish. Some babies are challenged with nursing in public because they are distracted by activity around them. A nursing cover up can come in handy if you prefer privacy when breastfeeding or if your baby needs less distraction.

Nursing Cover – Choose a nursing cover up that’s lightweight to prevent overheating. The Milk Snob Nursing Cover doubles as a cocoon for infant car seats.

Snack Cups – These spill-proof Snack Keeper cups hold food with soft flaps on top for access. Fill them up with Goldfish crackers or animal crackers for the perfect to-go toddler snack.

Looking for the best healthy road trip snacks for toddlers, kids, teens and adults on your next family adventure? Find out what are the healthiest options to choose at your next road trip convenience store stop! #Snacks #FamilyTravel #TravelwithKids #RoadTripFood #RoadTrip @ConvenienceStore #JoyintheJourney #AD

READ MORE: How to Choose Healthy Road Trip Snacks at the Convenience Store

Sipper Cups – We all try our best to keep track of everything when traveling. Inevitably something ends up missing. It’s usually the sippy cup that rolls under the car, falls out of the stroller or gets left at a restaurant.

Toddler holding sippy cup while riding in a stroller

Skip the pricey sippers and buy a set of these Take & Toss Spill-Proof Sippy Cups . If one gets lost, you’ll have a few to spare.

Bibs – If you have access to laundry, these machine washable bibs are superb for feeding time. In a pinch use a baby wipe to clean off small messes.

No washing machine, no problem. Disposable bibs offer protection to clothing from food spills and can be tossed in the trash after each use.

An excellent reusable choice is the Bib Clip . Especially convenient for frequent restaurant dining, simply snap in a cloth or paper napkin to protect toddler’s clothing.

Disposable Placemats – If your toddler is self-feeding, these disposable placemats are awesome. We all know that kids don’t keep their food on the plate! To keep mealtime a little neater and more sanitary these peel-and-stick plastic mats are a must.

Baby with mouth on disposable placemat in restaurant

Comfortable Shoes for Babies

If your baby has only crawled around the carpeted floors at home you might not have even purchased them a first pair of shoes. Generally a pair of socks will keep baby toes warm and dry.

If painful feet stop kids from exploring check out these tips and products that will minimize blisters, swelling and foot pain!

However when away from home consider covering baby’s feet to protect them when traveling in public locations. Choose flexible soles that don’t require a “breaking-in” period.

My children have been wearing pediped brand shoes since before they could walk. The pediped Originals are perfect crib shoes that can transition into walking shoes for a toddler.

Aqua Socks – If your child will be walking on hot sand or on the concrete around a pool, consider slip-resistant water shoes . They are a safe way to protect toddlers from stubbing their toes or burning their feet.

Walking Outside with a Baby

If your travel destination includes a lot of walking you’ll need to be prepared for taking baby along for the ride. Follow these additional tips for walking outside with a baby .

Stroller – The Baby Jogger City Mini has been my favorite for traveling with a baby. It’s all-terrain for both sidewalk or trail walking and offers excellent recline for naps. Best part is that it closes up compactly with one hand, ideal for boarding public transportation or getting into the vehicle trunk.

If you’d prefer not to take your own stroller consider renting one at your destination. Companies like Kingdom Strollers that rent equipment at Walt Disney World are one of the top places to get a stroller while traveling.

READ MORE : Guide to taking toddlers to Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom .

Stroller Fan – When the weather’s hot, keep baby cool using a flexible Travel Fan . Wrap the arms around a stroller, car seat or hold it in your hand to create a breeze wherever you need one.

Muslin Blanket – This lightweight muslin blanket in a variety of colors is multi-versatile. Use it as a blanket, burp cloth, swaddling cloth, nursing coverup or to cover the stroller when the sun is out.

Front Carrier – Best for going where strollers can’t go, the baby front carrier is invaluable. It’s also convenient to use when babies are sleeping and you don’t want to wait until nap time is over. Put the baby in a front carrier and go about with your exploring!

A Front Carrier is also highly convenient in places where you need to be hands-free. Airplane travel and amusement park queues are perfect locations to use a carrier. Plus nursing parents can discretely feed their baby inside of a front carrier!

I also used a front carrier to help soothe my fussy toddler to sleep at hotels. I’d pop her in the carrier then tidy up the room and get things ready for the following day until she was asleep.

Toddler Backpack with Harness – Ideal for the toddler who is always trying to run away! This Skip Hop Toddler Backpack has a leash that can be detached. My daughter enjoyed carrying her sippy cup, plush toy and a snack in her bag. The removable leash allows toddlers to walk independently but not get too far away.

Toddler wearing a butterfly harness backpack on airplane

Choosing the Best Diaper Bag for Travel

Before you start packing, make sure that your everyday diaper bag will work for your travel needs. You might want to purchase a day bag that’s better suited for vacationing with a baby.

Figure out first which baby travel essentials you’ll be bringing on your excursions each day. From there you’ll have a better idea which type of diaper bag is best suited to your family’s needs.

Check out these 7 rookie mistakes to avoid when you plan your Disney vacation.

Where will you put the bag when you’re not carrying it? If you want to store it under the stroller or in a locker, make sure to measure so it’s not oversized. For airplane travel, ensure that the diaper bag will fit nicely under the seat.

Diaper Bag Tote – For longer days away or lengthy plane trips, this diaper bag tote opens wide into one main compartment. An included shoulder strap is versatile and convenient.

Diaper Backpack – A stylish alternative to the usual diaper bag that either mom or dad would be pleased to carry! This spacious diaper bag backpack houses plenty of storage pockets and space for everything you’ll need on the go.

Stroller Diaper Bag – Ultra convenient stroller caddy diaper bag hangs from the stroller handle for quick access of wipes, diapers and other essentials. A compact style that’s ideal for short trips.

Packing a Travel Diaper Bag

Bottles, baby food, diaper cream and drool bibs! Each evening when you return from outings, empty and refill the diaper bag. Reload the bag with wipes and diapers, clothing changes and baby food. Taking time to restock at night will allow for less stress in the mornings.

Besides what you usually bring for baby in the diaper bag, there are a few other baby travel essentials to consider:

Wet Bag – In the unfortunate event of a diaper blow out or spit up incident you’ll need a place to keep clothing until they can be washed. A reusable wet bag stores messy or damp clothing until you can get to the laundry.

Diaper Changing Pad – Many of the newer diaper bags already have coordinated changing pads included. For getaways where there might be diaper changing tables, purchase disposable diaper changing pads for sanitary purposes.

Stain Stick – When you’re away from the washing machine, use an on-the-go Stain Stick for laundry. Simply rub on spots to prevent stains from happening until you can wash.

Requirements for Safe Travels with Babies

If you have an active toddler there’s sure to be a few bumps and bruises along the way. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to taking care of small injuries or treating pain.

My daughter fell and scraped her elbow at Disney World. With the wet and humid Florida weather the bandages from first aid just wouldn’t stick to her skin. Now I know to pack waterproof band aids in the first aid travel kit!

First Aid Kit – A well stocked first aid kit is essential when traveling with a baby. Include cleansing wipes, antibiotic ointment and plenty of kid-friendly bandages.

Baby Medications – Kids can get sick, even on vacation. Fevers can spike quickly in the middle of the night. Better to have what you need for emergency than rely on the local convenience store or hotel gift shop. Basics like a baby thermometer and Infants’ Tylenol are a must pack.

Safety Kit – Whether you’re staying overnight at a hotel, Airbnb or at grandma’s house, you’ll want to baby-proof the accommodations. This includes protecting exposed electrical outlets, covering sharp corners, securing loose cables and locking up cabinets.

READ MORE: Complete Guide to Keeping Kids Safe on Vacation

What Else to Pack for Baby?

It can be tempting to want to pack ALL the things when traveling with a baby. Some of what you use at home on a daily basis may not be a baby travel essential. Before you overload the car’s trunk space or suitcase with oversized items, here are some tips.

Find out what’s there already before you pack your own. Check with hotels and Airbnb to find out what baby equipment is available. Verify that the products aren’t recalled.

There are lots of things to families to do in Palm Spring. Find out the top 8 desert adventures including golfing, museums, and water parks. Lots of tips on where to stay and what to do in the California desert with kids of all ages.

Check with rental companies at your destination. Places like Cloud of Goods can offer up the rental of items like cribs, booster seats, pack ‘n play, stroller wagons, and high chairs.

In the case of high demand items like your baby’s bouncer seat , you might want to consider bringing it on the road. If the bouncer is the only place your baby will calm, best not to disrupt their pattern any more than usual when traveling.

How often will you use it? If you regularly use a high chair cover at home, consider if it’s worth lugging on your travels. I personally brought a high chair cover with me to Walt Disney World for my baby and used it one time. It wasn’t worth losing the space in my suitcase. But if you think that large item is essential, by all means pack it!

Baby Travel Essentials Packing Checklist

Now that you know what you need to bring when traveling with a baby in diapers, click the link below to print the free baby travel packing checklist!

Traveling with Baby – Free Printable Packing List

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40 Practical & Encouraging Tips for Traveling with a Baby

Home » Blog » Family Travel » 40 Practical & Encouraging Tips for Traveling with a Baby

Adventuring with a little one can be overwhelming, but these practical tips for traveling with a baby will make it feel much more manageable. After reading this article, you’ll feel encouraged and confident to start planning your dream family vacation.

Travel with a baby tips Akumal Mexico Baby Sunglasses

After taking all types of different trips with our daughter in her first year – from National Parks to European Christmas Markets to traveling Scotland by campervan (and so much more!) – we have learned so much about traveling with a baby.

Why keep all these tips to ourselves when we can share them with you ?!

We know how overwhelming it can be , especially when other people tell you how hard it is traveling with kids.

But you know what? It can also be amazing, too.

Traveling with your little one will full your cup, create lifelong memories, and will open your eyes to a totally different way of looking at taking trips.

While traveling with a baby certainly looks different and requires more flexibility and planning , we’re still able to do some pretty epic things. And you can too (if that’s what you want).

Traveling with our daughter has truly been life changing, and we can’t wait for you to experience this magic, too.

Travel with a baby tips Cracker Lake Glacier National Park with a baby

Guide to traveling with a baby

Our story: Read about our travel-style and our background so you understand our approach to traveling with a baby.
Top tips: Wanna get to the good stuff right away? Jump right down to our top tips for traveling with a baby!

This article is full of practical tips, gear that is actually worth packing, and encouraging advice that will help you feel prepared and confident about traveling with a baby.

We’ll also be discussing some helpful mindsets about traveling with a baby that can transform how you think about it.

Whether you’re an experienced parent or you’re dreaming of someday traveling with a baby, we’ve got tips and advice that will help you feel confident to plan the family trip of your dreams!

Cannon Beach Oregon with a stroller tips for traveling with a baby

As full-time travel bloggers , traveling is one of our biggest passions, and it’s also both of our jobs. So when we found out we were expecting, we knew that travel wouldn’t just stop for us once the baby arrived (like many people warned).

We’ve known for a long time that we’d want to start a family, eventually . So over the years, we (almost subconsciously) took note of all the people we saw traveling with their kids.

On our 4-day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu , there was a family with 4 kids, the youngest of whom was 8 years old.
In Thailand , we saw countless families living nomadically or traveling with kids of all ages.
We met a family on the west coast USA, living out of their campervan with two little boys (before it was common!).

We stored up all these acquaintances as “evidence” that traveling with a baby is not only possible, but it can still be adventurous .

We saw it as inspiration and started to dream of all the adventures we could take our little one on. Together, we dreamed about how we could open their eyes to the endless beauty and kindness around the world. And we talked about how traveling with a child would create core memories and forge a bond between us that we just couldn’t replicate at home.

Travel with a baby tips Glenfinnan Viaduct Scotland

We were excited about this new chapter, and confident we could forge our own path despite what anyone said.

That mindset came in handy because soon after announcing we were expecting a baby, we got a mixed bag of responses:

“Can’t wait to hear all your advice for traveling with kids!”
“You’re definitely going to be slowing down and traveling less now.”
“Travel while your baby is young, because as soon as they can walk, traveling will be over!”

The good, the bad, the well-meaning… we got it all.

We expected people to say how difficult it would be . And if I’m completely honest, those “you won’t be able to travel anymore” comments encouraged us to prove to ourselves that we could in fact travel with a baby. And thrive while doing it.

The truth is, we were prepared for people to tell us we couldn’t travel with a baby. Remember, we had stored up all that “proof” that we weren’t the only ones with these dreams.

Thinking about taking an adventure with your little one?

Be sure to download our complete packing list for traveling with a baby ! It’s packed with good suggestions and advice for what has personally worked for us on our travels with a baby.

Whether you’re getting ready for your first ever trip with a baby, or you’re a parenting pro just looking for a few extra tips, we hope this baby travel packing list will serve you well!

Why trust our advice about traveling with a baby?

For years, whenever we saw people traveling with kids, we’d look at each other and say, “Wow, that’s badass. Someday I want that to be us.”

And now we’re doing it which feels both surreal and like we’ve been training for this for years. Because we kind of have.

Prior to having a baby, we traveled to more than 50 countries together and built a business around the travel industry. So travel is something we are not only passionate about, but it’s something we feel very comfortable with.

We made it a point to bring our daughter on some epic trips during her first year of life. And we have so many more family trips planned for the future!

Travel with a baby tips toboggan sled Innsbruck, Austria

In Juniper’s first year of life, she:

took 19 flights
traveled to 9 countries
visited 14 US states
explored 4 US National Parks
went on 2 overnight backcountry camping trips
lived in a campervan for 4 months

Juniper went on countless hikes, slept in many different places around the world, and made more friends than any other other 1-year-old we know!

She is growing into a very adaptable little human, and we feel so lucky for all of the memories we have already created together.

If you, too, want to travel with a little one, we’re here to share all of the things that have worked for us along the way.

We hope you take the advice that resonates with you and feel empowered to plan and execute your dream family trips!

Why are you here?

I imagine you’re here because you want to know more about traveling with a baby. Ding, ding, ding!!!

Okay, that was obvious. But the rest is a little harder to determine…

Perhaps you are already a parent , and you want to start adventuring more with your little one but you don’t know where to start.
Maybe you already travel with your baby a lot , but you’re constantly seeking new tips and advice. Everything helps, right?!
If you are expecting, be sure to check out our list of the best babymoon destinations !
Or perhaps you aren’t even sure you want to be a parent , and you’re trying to figure out how much, exactly, having a baby would impact your lifestyle and dreams.

You might be feeling excited about the prospect of traveling with a baby. Or confused about how to even get started.

Maybe you’re skeptical about the whole idea of traveling with a little one. Or you’re feeling defeated after being told many times that traveling with a baby is hard, and you’re just looking for some encouragement.

Feel all the feels. They are all valid.

Wherever you’re coming from and whatever you’re feeling, my hope is that you’ll be able to find some nuggets in this article that will speak to you .

Everyone’s journey is different

European Christmas Markets travel with a baby tips

In this article, we’re sharing tips for traveling with a baby that have worked for us.

That last part of the sentence is important: These are the things that have worked for us , personally.

I will say that we have been privileged that we haven’t had to deal with any major health issues. Our daughter is (for the most part) very easygoing and adaptable. Some of this we can attribute to things we have practiced and experiences that we have exposed her to. But I also know that some of this is pure luck.

Everyone’s parenting journey is different. And every child is different.

You know your child and your comfort level better than anyone. Plus, we all have different priorities and goals and dreams and lifestyles. (Remember, traveling is a big part of our job, so things may look different for you.)

Pick and choose the tips that will work for you. Ignore the ones that won’t.

Psst! After reading through all our tips for traveling with a little one, be sure to read my personal note at the bottom of this article.

Our best tips for traveling with a baby

Let’s dive into the things that have worked for us.

Scroll through them all (there are 40!), or jump to the sections that are most important to you:

BUILD CONFIDENCE: Feel confident about traveling with a baby
PLANNING: Planning your trip
TRAVEL TIPS: Tips for while you’re on your trip

Good to know: Most of these tips are geared toward babies and toddlers (aka under 2 years old). As our daughter grows and our experiences change, we will continue creating resources based on our personal experiences.

1. Start small with “mini adventures”

One of my biggest pieces of advice is to start small. And start early.

In my last weeks of pregnancy, we got out a calendar and made “mini goals” for each week after the baby was born.

They went something like this:

1 week old: Go to your favorite coffee shop
2 weeks old: Go on a long(ish) walk (we went snowshoeing because it was winter!)
3 weeks old: Go to a brewery or event in town
4 weeks old: Spend the night away (we booked a cabin in the woods)

More ideas:

Mini road trip
Go to a friend’s house for dinner
Book a staycation in your own town or a nearby city
Find a nearby soaking pool (with water temperatures safe for a baby)
Picnic in a nearby park

Everyone will have different comfort levels, but do what feels good to you.

Having these “mini adventures” on our calendar brought some much-needed structure to our weeks after having a baby. And obviously we knew we could cancel if it didn’t feel right at that time.

These little adventures gave us the confidence to slowly make the excursions bigger , so that we weren’t completely overwhelmed when it came time to board our first international flight.

Note: Even if your little one isn’t a newborn anymore, it’s never too late to schedule some “mini adventures” on your calendar. Base the excursions on the skills you want to practice and the type of trips you want to take.

2. Practice “baby skills” on the go

Diaper change while hiking Osprey Poco Plus

This kind of ties in with the “mini adventures” above, but make sure that you’re practicing some skills on the go:

changing diapers in new environments
napping on the go
feeding (whether nursing or bottle feeding)

Trust me when I say you won’t want the first time you change your baby’s diaper outside of your house to be at the start of a trip.

Diaper change in public bathroom tips for traveling with a baby

Make a point to breastfeed or bottle feed on a walk near your house.

Change a diaper in the coffee shop bathroom instead of waiting until you get home.

It will feel uncomfortable at first. But since you’re close to home, you can always go back and start fresh another day if things don’t go as planned.

Doing this time and time again will make you feel more confident and know what to expect. Plus, it will help your little one get used to environments other than your house.

3. Master the art of napping on the go

Travel with baby Haystack Tock Cannon Beach, Oregon

Black out curtains, a humidifier, and a bassinet that rocks babe to sleep are great, but we personally knew that we’d be in lots of situations where these wouldn’t be available.

So we were proactive about practicing napping in different situations from the time Juniper was very young .

At home, we had an ideal sleep environment in her room, but we also practiced napping in the living room, in a travel sleeper, and while wearing her in a carrier so she could be adaptable.

Travel with a baby tips napping on the go Glencoe, Scotland

Once we felt comfy with it, we practiced napping around town, and eventually on mini trips.

She quickly mastered sleeping just about anywhere:

her stroller
in a baby carrier
in our arms
in quiet places
and noisy ones too

Travel with a baby tips napping on the go Innsbruck, Austria

Being able to have her sleep in different environments has been a game-changer for us (especially in the earlier months!). It allowed us to get out of the house and not worry about being home at an exact time.

It also made the prospect of traveling with a baby seem so much more attainable when we were newbie parents.

One item that has been helpful for napping on the go:

Travel sound machine (if you forget this, there are apps and Spotify channels with white noise)

4. Refine your diaper bag

These “mini adventures” I keep talking about will help you realize what you need in many different situations, and what items never get used.

Take note of these things and keep repacking your diaper bag until you have it down.

AKA you have all the essentials (and remember to restock the items that get used up, like diapers and wipes!) and none of the bulk .

5. Put the essentials in a fanny pack diaper bag

Diaper bag fanny pack travel with a baby tips

Your full-sized diaper bag will come in handy for bringing all the necessities on your trip, so don’t leave it at home. But there will be many times where you won’t want to lug a big backpack around all day .

Wandering historic cobblestone streets of European cities or walking beach trails on a humid island or a hike in the mountains will all be so much more enjoyable without your full-sized diaper bag.

Pack the essentials – diapers, wipes, diaper cream, a binky, medications, small snacks, etc. – into a fanny pack. You can also include any of your personal necessities for the day (chapstick, credit cards and cash, keys, etc.)

I have this fanny pack that is actually made for this purpose (there’s a wet wipes pocket), but you could use any medium to large size fanny pack ( like this one ). Usually, I just string it over the handle of our stroller so I don’t have to actually wear it. This way, we’re prepared but aren’t bringing the bulk!

Psst! This diaper bag fanny is much cuter than mine, but it’s 3 times the price.

6. Don’t buy all the things

As soon as you get pregnant, it’ll feel like you are constantly being bombarded with ads for all this “essential baby travel gear”.

Plus, there are all these bloggers and influencers who share all the gear that they use (myself included).

And holy cow, it’s overwhelming.

There is just so much stuff out there and it can feel like you need it all.

Spoiler alert: You DON’T.

It’s hard to know what will really make your life easier and what isn’t worth the money or space.

Here’s the best way to really get a feel for what baby gear you need:

Take those “mini adventures”! I sound like a broken record at this point, but they are truly a low-risk way to find out what items you really need.
Find a handful of voices you resonate with and trust (a friend, a family member, a blogger/influencer). See what items they recommend and see if it sounds like something you definitely need.

Psst! One way to save money is to search for items on Facebook Marketplace or your local Buy Nothing group. Many first-time parents end up with duplicate items or are keen to sell baby gear after it’s lightly used (since many things won’t be necessary as they grow older). We got so many baby items and nursery furniture this way (and we’ve sold/given a bunch of things away on these platforms too!).

7. Create routines that can be recreated anywhere

Travel with a baby tips campervan bedtime

While you’re at home, try to create routines that you can recreate anywhere.

Maybe there’s a certain book you read to signify bed time. Or a song before naps. Or the routine of brushing hair and teeth.

These routines are simple and don’t require much, so you can give your little one the cues they look for even when you’re far from home.

8. Pick and choose the advice you follow

As a new parent, it can be really scary even thinking about traveling with a baby for the first time. And it’s even scarier when people you know (and trust) tell you how hard it will be, or how that part of your life is over.

First things first: Tune those people out.

Take the advice that resonates with you, and ignore the rest.

Our personal experience:

I remember when I was pregnant I kept hearing how hard parenting was. The advice came from people who meant well – and who were probably right in many ways – but it made me feel nervous and unequipped.

In the midst of all the warnings, one of Ben’s cousins talked about how much fun being a parent was. She went on and on about how, “ yes, it’s work, but it is also the best thing ever!”

In that moment, I remember finally feeling excited rather than scared.

So I decided I would focus on the advice that lifted me up rather than the words that brought anxiety.

Now as Juniper is getting older, we get similar well-meaning advice from people who say things like, “Traveling when they’re this age is easy. Just wait until she is walking. Then, your work is cut out for you!”

The “just wait until ” advice doesn’t sit well with me. So now I just ignore it.

Take the advice that makes you feel encouraged, and leave the rest.

Yes, that applies to this list .

The tips we’re sharing are things that worked for us . If something doesn’t sit well with you, ignore it and listen to the pieces of advice that feel right.

Everyone’s parenting journey is different. You’re in charge of yours. Nobody else.

9. Work on your mindset

Travel with a baby tips Austria monastery Ettal Abbey

Read the sentence below and internalize it:

People have kids in every country of the world.

Unless you’re going to a really remote region or an active war zone, bringing your child on a trip isn’t anything unheard of. Other people have brought their children to the destination you’re dreaming about, so why can’t you?

If traveling with your child is important to you, you can make it happen.

10. Adjust your expectations

Traveling with our baby has been one of the most empowering and rewarding things we’ve ever done.

But it has also included moments of exhaustion and frustration .

Like many people, we probably don’t share enough of those moments publicly on social media . (Although I’m trying to work on that!)

I truly think that for most people, traveling with a baby will be a wonderful experience as long as you have realistic expectations…

Think about what travel looked like before kids and what it will look like now. Consider what will be the biggest changes.

This will help ensure your expectations are realistic and set you up for having amazing experiences with less frustration.

These are some of the differences for us:

Don’t worry too much though, the flight is just a small part of the journey and we have some tips for flying with a baby that will help a ton!
Traveling with a baby means we usually need to move more slowly , and we are able to do less each day than we would without a baby.
Sometimes we need to cancel plans or turn around from a hike early because our daughter just isn’t having a great day. We’ve found we need to be a lot more flexible and be prepared for some plans to just not work out.
Good news: We’ve got practical tips for choosing accommodation with a baby !
We can’t just pop into a bar for a late-night drink if we feel like it. And there are plenty of cool bucket list activities that just don’t allow children . (Aka no more scuba diving together for a while!) Still working through my FOMO with this, but there are still plenty of epic things we can do, so I’m trying to focus on that.

11. Think about your why

Horses and baby in the snow in Garmisch, Germany travel with a baby tips

Between logistics and packing, traveling with a baby requires a whole different level of planning. And it can get overwhelming. Especially when you have family or friends who aren’t all that encouraging.

When you start to get frustrated or overwhelmed, think about why you want to travel with your baby.

Is it to feel like yourself again and pursue a hobby you love?

Is it to create memories as a family?

Is it to show your child the world and see it through their eyes?

All of the above?

Focusing on the why will make the process – frustrations and all! – much more bearable.

Innsbruck Alpine Zoo aquarium with a baby

Here are some examples of why you might want to travel with a baby:

It fills your cup.
It shows your child to prioritize things that make them happy.
It shows them the world is so much bigger than your community.
It gives them the opportunity to meet and interact with people different from themselves.
It teaches them flexibility.
It creates lifelong memories.
It may introduce them to a forever hobby or skill.
It teaches them to cherish experiences over things.
You can grow and bond as a family.
You can push your comfort levels together.

And here’s one more that I’ll add to the list:

It’s easier than you think. (Hopefully this article helps make it feel more doable!)

Write your “whys” on post-it notes and stick them around your house. Journal about it. Set your phone screen to be a picture that motivates you.

Do whatever it takes to remind yourself of why you want to make traveling with a baby a priority.

12 Talk about what makes you nervous with your travel partner

Still have some nerves?

That’s totally normal. In fact, I’d be a little worried if you didn’t have anything that you were nervous about.

It can really help to talk out these feelings with your partner.

Maybe you just need them to listen to you and validate your concerns. Or perhaps walking through the scenarios that you’re most uncomfortable with together and discussing what you’d do in each situation will make you feel more prepared.

Whatever the case, getting your worries out in the open will help ensure you’re both on the same page and there for each other.

13. Don’t stress too much about the flight

The flight is just one (tiny) fraction of your trip. And in many cases, it will not be nearly as bad as you’re making it out to be in your head.

Think of it this way: Most people on flights have headphones in (watching movies or listening to music) and won’t even notice if your baby is being fussy.

That realization made me feel a lot better before taking our first flight with a baby! (Hopefully it helps you, too.)

We took 19 flights (legs) with our daughter before she turned one, and we gathered all our top advice and created an entire guide full of tips for flying with a baby that should help ease your nerves and make you feel confident about boarding that plane!

In short: Don’t let your nerves about the flight prevent you from going!

14. Start with a trip that’s within your comfort zone

Just like we recommend starting with “mini adventures” near home so you can build your confidence, make your first trip with a baby one that is within your comfort zone.

Maybe this means you return to a place you’ve already been to.

Baby swimming pool travel with a baby tips

Or maybe this means you travel to a country where English is the native language (or widely spoken), so you don’t have to worry about language barriers.

Make the actual trip one that doesn’t stress you out or push your boundaries too much. This way, you can focus on getting the hang of this whole t raveling with a baby thang so that you can plan bigger, bolder trips for the future.

15. Pack as light as possible

This is honestly a tough one because I truly think it comes down to finding a balance between packing light and making sure you have all the essentials (many of which are really freaking bulky).

We’ve got lots of advice on the best gear for traveling with a baby , but in general, less is more. Make sure the items you’re bringing are going to be used and won’t just be dead weight.

And truly, bring as few toys as possible. You will thank me when you’re traveling around with ease because you ditched half the toys you thought you needed.

Psst! Want to know what baby gear we personally recommend? We’ve gotcha covered with our favorite baby travel gear.

16. Remember: you can get diapers everywhere in the world

Personally, I don’t stress too much about diapers because you can buy them everywhere in the world.

Bring plenty of diapers for the plane and to get you through the first several days of your trip. But if you’re going to be gone for a couple weeks (or more!), don’t stress too much about packing the perfect amount.

Just about every grocery store or convenience store should have diapers and wipes available.

If you’re having trouble finding them in your destination, ask the hotel staff to point you in the right direction.

17. Choose your accommodation wisely

Something I’ve learned is that the type of accommodation we book with a kid is much more specific than when it was just the two of us .

There are a lot of other factors to consider, and what might have been a perfectly good hotel for you will be a disaster with a babe.

Lemme tell ya, we’ve learned the hard way what doesn’t work well anymore now that we travel with a baby.

There have been a few very uncomfortable stays and even an Airbnb that we left (already paid for) because it just didn’t work with a baby.

Psst! Read our tips for choosing a hotel with baby so you don’t make the same mistakes!

18. Book places with pack ‘n plays when possible

Airbnb pack 'n play travel with baby tips

If it’s an option, try to book hotels and Airbnbs that have a travel crib for your baby.

Many hotels and many Airbnbs offer this, so keeping it in mind when you’re making your reservations is key. This means you won’t have to travel with your own, which is a huge space saver.

Their booking details will usually disclose if they have a crib available. If you don’t see anything about a crib, it doesn’t hurt to ask. We once asked an Airbnb host if she had a crib available, and she decided to buy one so that she could offer it to future guests.

Airbnb pack 'n play travel with a baby tips

If you’re not finding any good accommodations with cribs available don’t stress too much. It’s definitely possible to bring your own.

The Guava Lotus pack ‘n play is undoubtedly the best travel one on the market. Trust me, I spent a lot of time comparing, and it’s the smallest, most durable, and made without toxic materials. So if you’re looking at buying one for travel, the Guava Lotus is what you want. (This is the one we personally have.)

Even though it is compact, it is still bulky and another item to lug around. So if you can get away with not having to pack it, that’s a big win.

Our personal experience

During our 3-week European Christmas Market Trip, we stayed at 8 different hotels/Airbnbs, and all but one had a crib available, so we decided not to bring our own. We are comfortable with co-sleeping, so we did this on the nights that we did not have a crib available.

However, there are some destinations where finding accommodation with cribs is much more difficult. For example, we’re currently planning a trip where we’re mostly staying at Airbnbs and none offer pack ‘n play, so we will be bringing our own.

19. You can rent things on vacation… (but you might not want to)

Lately I’ve seen a lot of articles and social media posts about renting baby items on vacation through platforms like BabyQuip .

In theory, it’s a great idea, and can be really useful in some situations . There’s a lot to be said for not having to lug around bulky gear, after all.

Examples of items you can rent:

high chair if you plan on eating lots of meals at the accommodation
bassinet or pack-and-play when your hotel does not offer this option
car seat when it is significantly cheaper than going with one through the rental car company
hiking baby carrier (if you have a big hike planned for on your trip)
beach toys if you are doing an ocean vacation but don’t have or want to pack the gear
so much more!

But here’s my word of caution…

These rentals can add up quickly , and before you know it, you might be spending hundreds of dollars. (Especially if you’re on a longer trip.)

The prices vary depending on what products you’re looking for and where you’ll be traveling, so calculate the total cost to help you determine whether this would be worthwhile service for you or not.

20. Invest in a compact stroller

Montreal compact travel stroller travel with a baby tips

One of our most-loved travel items is our compact stroller. It is one of the things we’d strongly suggest buying specifically for travel.

On our first international trip with Juniper, we lugged our normal stroller. This stroller was a hand-me-down from a friend and we love it for at home. But we quickly learned that it was an absolute beast to transport.

It was very heavy and still took up quite a bit of space even when it was collapsed.

After that trip, we bought a stroller that was made for travel . It folds up small to be able to easily fit in the overhead compartment on planes, making it a breeze for travel.

We personally love our Colugo stroller (and have brought it all over the US and the world!) and would highly recommend it as a durable and affordable travel stroller.

21. …and a solid baby carrier

Having a solid travel stroller is great, but there are places and activities where a carrier is far superior.

Here are just a couple of things to consider:

Stroller is better when:

it’s hot out and you don’t want to baby wear
the sidewalks are well-maintained and the streets are flat

Carrier is better when:

you’re in a crowded place
the sidewalks are not well-maintained (or the streets are cobblestone)
you’ll be getting in and out of public transportation

We’ve had a lot of baby carriers, and we both agree that the Ergobaby Omni 360 is the best all-around baby carrier. It’s pricy, but lasts for a long time and is good in a variety of situations. Plus, it works for both of us to carry her, even though we have very different bodies!

22. Consider traveling in a campervan

We’re biased and this certainly won’t be for everyone, but we’ve found campervan travel to be wonderful with a baby , especially when Juniper was really young.

We had everything we needed with us at all times, and we could pull over at any minute to cook a meal, change a diaper in the comfort of our own van, or just hang out in our own private space.

In Juniper’s first year we:

spent 4 months living and traveling in our own campervan that we built from scratch
we rented a campervan in Scotland for a 2-week road trip (spoiler alert: it was amazing!)
plus, we rented a campervan in Ireland for 1 week too!

If you’re renting, you’ll really want to look at the space to figure out if it will work for your family. Most campervan rental companies will be happy to help you choose. We also have a whole list of USA Campervan Rental Companies you can choose from that we personally recommend.

Traveling in a campervan with a little one certainly requires a different mindset, and I wouldn’t recommend it as your first trip with a baby if you’ve never experienced vanlife before . But I think camping can be very special with a little one and a unique way to see a destination.

And don’t leave home without our VanLife Baby Gear Checklist . These are the things we always pack in our van that make our lives so much easier and keep our baby happy.

23. Get a baby passport ASAP

If you plan on traveling internationally with your little one in their first year, we’d recommend getting the process rolling shortly after they are born so you are sure it’ll arrive in time. We applied for Juniper’s passport when she was just 3 weeks old, so it really isn’t ever too early.

This is actually very easy to obtain and we have a whole guide to getting a baby passport .

Good to know: If you have Global Entry and want to continue using it, you will also need to apply for this for your baby. We learned the hard way when we were turned away at Global Entry. “Interview” time slots fill up very quickly, so schedule this as soon as you get the passport.

24. Get travel insurance

Hopefully I don’t have to explain why here, but we get travel insurance for every trip we take.

Now that we have a baby, it feels even more important to be properly covered.

Need advice on how to go about getting the best policy for your situation? We’ve gotcha covered in this guide to choosing travel insurance .

25. Get an eSIM on international trips

If you are traveling internationally, it’s super helpful to be able to connect to cell service immediately upon landing.

This can be essential if you need to contact your transport or hotel.

We love eSIMs because you don’t have to search for a physical SIM card (a hassle) and you don’t have to pay crazy international coverage fees from your home phone service.

Our favorite eSIM is Airalo .

Psst! We have an entire guide to how to get an eSIM here .

26. Renting a car is usually a great idea

We love using public transportation on our travels, but having a rental car is a lot more convenient when you’re traveling with a baby.

You won’t need to carry around your car seat or luggage, and you can go at your own pace, making stops as frequently as you need. Plus, you won’t have to run so you don’t miss that train! (We’ve all been there.)

When in doubt, make it a road trip. And be sure to check out our tried and true 5-step plan for making your road trip a success !

Want some road trip ideas?

Here are our favorite road trips in the world:

Iceland Road Trip
Scotland Road Trip
New Zealand Road Trip
Australia Road Trip
Yucatan Peninsula Road Trip
Costa Rica Road Trip
Banff to Jasper Road Trip
European Christmas Market Road Trip
Oregon Road Trip
Oregon Coast Road Trip
Utah Road Trip
Idaho Road Trip
Washington Road Trip
Colorado Road Trip
New England (fall foliage!) Road Trip

27. Include family in your trips

Family travel with a baby Nicols Ledge Vermont hike

Again, this is a tip that may not apply to everyone, but you may want to consider including family in your travel planning.

This could be an opportunity for them to create special memories with your little one, and who knows – maybe they’ll give you the gift of a “date night” while they watch baby !

You could either plan a trip together (hint: book a big Airbnb for the most comfortable stay!), or plan a trip to visit friends or family who live somewhere you’d like to explore.

We’ve been lucky enough to take trips with both Ben’s family and mine, and we’re excited to plan more extended family vacations in the future.

28. Move around less

Baby swimming pool and sunglasses travel with a baby tips

If you’re used to moving around from place to place rather quickly on your trips, you may want to slow it down a bit (or a lot!) when you add a baby into the mix.

You’ll be able to cover much less in one day, and you’ll need to consider what you’ll do during nap times and when babe needs to go to sleep at night.

You certainly don’t need to stay in one place the entire time (though that’s not a bad idea); but trust me when I say you don’t want to move to a new place every single night .

Our rule of thumb is we aim to stay in places at least 2 nights on trips, but 3-4 nights per place is ideal , in our opinion.

(An exception to this is when we’re staying at an airport hotel the night before a flight, we only book one night.)

Psst! Read our tips for how to choose the best accommodation for traveling with a baby !

29. Get to major attractions early

Take advantage of your little one’s early wake up call (sleeping in on vacation is something I dearly miss!) and when possible, get to those popular sights before the crowds get there .

Not only will you have a better experience without all the people around, but there will be less commotion and sensory overload for babe. Plus, without all sorts of people around you may feel less self-conscious if your kiddo starts to get fussy.

30. Plan on early dinners (sometimes)

Travel with a baby tips Pho Vietnamese restaurant

Not gonna lie, I’m a huge fan of late dinners. I like the buzzy atmosphere and I don’t usually get hungry until later in the evening.

But alas, there are many cases where it makes a lot of sense to do an earlier dinner when you’re traveling with a baby.

Popular restaurants tend to be a lot more family-friendly before the dinner rush really begins. That might mean making a 5:00 p.m. or 5:30 p.m. reservation . If you’re like me, you might be rolling your eyes, but getting there earlier means you won’t have to worry about disturbing the late-night dinner crowd with a baby that is overwhelmed by all the sights and sounds.

We don’t always stick to early dinners, but when we know a place is popular or on the fancier side (or if it’s a weekend night), we do like to go before the real dinner rush (aka sensory overload!) begins .

31. Take advantage of room service (or takeout & delivery!)

Pre-baby, this was never something I’d do, but having dinner in your hotel or Airbnb can be really convenient (especially after a long day of exploring!).

We’ve gotten takeout/delivery a handful of times on trips and either have dinner as a family, or eat once our daughter has gone to sleep. It’s can be such a treat.

Money-saving tip: If you book accommodation with a kitchen, plan on cooking at least a couple of nights during your trip.

32. Cook some of your baby’s favorite meals

When possible, I like booking accommodation with a kitchen or kitchenette so I have more control over what our daughter is eating.

We love having her try new foods on our travels, and overall she is a pretty great eater. But we’re not always able to get to a restaurant when she starts getting hungry. It’s nice to be able to whip up some easy and wholesome meals we know she likes at our Airbnb so we can carry them with us throughout the day.

Below are a few meals and snacks that have worked well for us. I specifically chose dishes that use few ingredients that are easy to find in most places around the world, as well as dishes that don’t require complex cooking equipment.

If your baby is eating solids, use these ideas or create your own list of their favorite foods that you can easily replicate on your travels. Use this list to determine what items you’ll need to pack from home.

Insider Tip: Bring reusable baggies ( like these or these ) to store food to easy eating on the go. You could even bring a small cooler so you can carry it with you during a day on the road.

Banana & egg pancakes

Mash one ripe banana then add one egg. Mix until combined into a batter. Pour this in a skillet with oil (I prefer coconut oil), and cook on both sides, like a pancake.

I like to add a little nut butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon if I have access.

Insider Tip: Pack nut butter packets like these to be able to easily add it to different meals.

Smashed avocado

Super simple! You can add tomatoes too if you want. Serve as is or with rice crackers.

Oatmeal

I prefer to bring my own premade mix from home in a large silicone baggie . Then I can cook small amounts at a time on the road. All you need is hot water.

You can make it however you’d like, but this is a combo I like:

Quick-cooking oats + hemp + flax + powdered coconut milk + chia + cinnamon + freeze dried berries.

Once it’s prepared, you can add nut butter as well as fresh berries if you’d like.

Chia pudding

This is a nutritious meal that is good to make if you’ll be staying in one spot for a while.

A simple Google search will show you plenty of recipes, but I like chia + milk (almond, coconut, or oat are my preferred milks) + a little maple syrup. I usually add a bit of cinnamon if I have it.

I sometimes pack chia seeds from home if I think they’ll be hard to find.

Scrambled eggs

This is another go-to as eggs are easy to find just about everywhere.

Bulk it up by adding other veggies, a sweet potato or avocado.

Rice + beans + corn

This is another easy one using ingredients you can easily find in most places. I’d recommend this one if you’re staying in a place for a longer period of time, as you’ll definitely have a few days worth of leftovers.

Alternatively, order rice and beans as a side at a Mexican restaurant and keep it in a takeaway container to store.

Pasta, peas, & pesto

Whole grain noodles combined with frozen peas and pesto is a quick and easy meal and it saves well for leftovers. You can add cherry tomatoes too!

Roasted veggies

If your accommodation has an oven, simply bake some veggies. Sweet potato is a favorite of ours!

Insider Tip: When you’re in a pinch, look in the prepared food section of the grocery store. We’ve found premade guacamole, what bulgar and veggie salad, fruit medleys, and lots more that has worked for us no matter where in the world we are. Check the frozen aisle too. We’ve found frozen falafel (or veggie burgers) and frozen veggies with hummus is an easy meal.

33. Find out where you stand on sleep schedules

Hotel pack 'n play travel with a baby tips

One of the most common questions people ask us is, “How do you stick to a sleep schedule while traveling with a baby.”

Our completely honest answer is: We don’t.

This may be somewhat controversial, but we realized early on that we didn’t want to be super rigid about bedtime while traveling. And we didn’t want to always need to go back to our accommodation for naptime.

This is something that has been gradually changing and adapting a bit as our daughter gets older and her needs change. But during her first year, we had a somewhat flexible bedtime and we did a lot of napping on the go.

This doesn’t mean we were hitting the town until the wee hours, but we often gave ourselves a 1-2 hour window for getting back to the hotel and getting ready for bed. We got to know her cues pretty well and used them to inform our decisions.

We also had worked on napping on the go so much that if she fell asleep while we were at dinner, we didn’t stress out. We’d enjoy our meal, head back to the hotel and transfer her into her sleeping space.

Important Note: Sleep schedules are one of the more personal topics when it comes to parenting. And we’re not saying our way is right for you. We’re simply sharing what has worked for us so you have somewhere to start.

34. Do your own research about co-sleeping

Personally, once we felt our daughter was old enough, we practiced co-sleeping every once in a while so that we could use it as a tool if needed. This has come in handy several times on trips.

Ideally, Juniper has her own sleeping space in a hotel. However, in the case that she is having a rough night, isn’t feeling well, or we’re staying in a tiny room, we can co-sleep comfortably and with peace of mind.

We’ve also used this as a tool in our campervan on occasion. She has her own crib in our van, but if she wakes up in the middle of the night, we feel comfortable bringing her into bed with us so she is comforted.

Important note: Co-sleeping is another controversial topic. Do your own research and see how you feel so you can make an informed decision for your family.

35. Help your babe adjust to different time zones

Eibsee Lake winter Garmisch Germany with a baby

If you’ll be crossing time zones, here are 5 tips for helping your little one adjust easier:

Start shifting time zones at home

Before you leave for your trip, start to shift bedtime 1-2 hours to get closer to your destination’s time zone.

Start slow. A few weeks before the trip, make their bedtime 15 minutes later. Then 30. And so forth until you’ve shifted as much as you’d like.

This can help cut the adjustment time down once you get to your destination.

Good to know: If you’re going to be changing time zones more than 2 hours, you likely won’t be able to fully adjust at home. But every little bit will help!

Maybe you don’t need to adjust at all

If it’s just 1-3 hours different from your home time zone, you may not even need to adjust at all.

Let’s say you are traveling from Seattle to NYC. This means you will be 3 hours later than at home.

Perhaps instead of a 7 p.m. bedtime, you allow your little one to stay on their normal schedule and go to bed at 10 p.m. (which will allow you to have extra time to explore the city in the evening). This will also mean later wake-ups which is always nice on vacation.

If this is just a short trip, this can work really well and will also cut down on the adjustment when you go back home.

While you’ll want to aim for the same amount of sleep they typically get at home, there’s no rule that says you have to abide by their normal bedtime hour.

Use daylight to your advantage

When trying to adjust to a new time zone, use outdoor activity and daylight to your advantage.

Your baby will realize this is daytime, and their body will start to adjust accordingly.

Expect jet lag to last one day per hour time change

There’s kind of a general rule that you should anticipate it takes 1 day per hour that you change time zones.

So that means if you are going to be changing time zones by 5 hours, it will take roughly 5 days for you to feel “normal” and get over jet lag.

This rule is for both adults and babies, so use it as a gauge for your own travels.

Don’t plan anything big on the first day

If you will be shifting several time zones, we’d recommend keeping your first day (or two) relatively free.

This will alleviate any pressure and will allow you and your little one to rest up after a long travel day.

Insider Tip: We like these homeopathic “No Jet Lag” pills when we’re traveling through many time zones. These are for parents (not babies), but being adjusted yourself definitely helps deal with helping your little one shift as well!

36. Book a family photo shoot

This is a fun one I wanted to throw in there just because!

Instead of booking a photoshoot at home (like many people do), connect with a local photographer on a trip for a photo session.

On our European Christmas Market Trip, we booked this photo walk last minute, and were so happy we did. With a baby, it has become more difficult to get good pictures of ourselves. (If you know, you know!)

The pictures turned out amazing, and it was such a special souvenir from our trip. You will never regret having photos taken , after all!

We’re definitely going to continue this tradition in our future travels.

Want to do it yourself? Look on Airbnb Experiences . This is where we’ve found a lot of local photographers around the world. Some cities have more options than others, but it is becoming more and more common. Alternatively, you can try to find local photographers in the city you’re visiting on Instagram . Reach out to them in a DM or via their website to book a session during your trip.

37. Plan on some personal time

Seattle Hot Air Balloon | Two Wandering Soles

This might not be advice you take on your first trip with a baby or even on your fifth. But eventually, it might be something you and your partner want to consider.

What would it look like for each of you to be able to do one experience on your own while the other spent quality one-on-one time with your child ?

Maybe this would be something you used to do on trips in your pre-baby days, like going scuba diving or another adrenaline-fueled adventure. Or perhaps it would be a massage appointment to unwind.

I once did a hot air balloon flight next to Mount Rainier (babies aren’t allowed) while Ben and Juniper hung out in the campervan.

This might not appeal to everyone, but if you find yourself missing your old travel days, this might be just the thing you need!

38. You don’t need to limit yourself to only baby-centered activities

Zugspitz cable car travel with a baby tips

If you’re not keen on the typical baby-friendly trips or activities, like kiddie pools or zoos or chain restaurants, I’d like to pop in for a minute to remind you that travel with a baby can look however you’d like .

There’s no rule that says all your trips from here on out have to be at Disney or on kiddie-friendly cruises if that’s not your style. I know we didn’t like the idea of being relegated to only taking trips that were focused on babies from here on out.

We’ve found that while there are certainly some activities you just can’t do with a baby on vacation (scuba diving being the biggest thing we miss!), there’s a lot that you can do, even if it’s not marketed toward families.

Sometimes this means you’ll need to do more planning in advance, but in our experience it has been worth it to be able to continue traveling the way that feels best to us.

We usually research activities in our destination to determine which ones we personally really want to do. Then, unless it explicitly says children are not allowed, we think about what we’d need to do to make it work for us.

Here are some examples of what I mean:

Some cocktail bars only allow minors until a certain time, so we will plan to go earlier .
We pack lots of snacks and a good napping-on-the-go set up for walking tours or food tours (we’ve been on a bunch with her!).
Sometimes we might have to take turns at an activity , like snorkeling or snowboarding, while the other watches Juniper.
We might alter a hiking route to make it more doable with a little one.
Often, we’ll go somewhere with the mindset that we’ll leave if Juniper isn’t doing well . More often than not, she surprises us with doing great.
We still take public transport, but we’ll give ourselves plenty of time to get from Point A to Point B.

It kind of becomes a puzzle of: how can we still do this activity?

Don’t get me wrong – there are times we turn things down because it’s not worth it to us to make it work. But for the most part, we’ve still been able to do most of the things we really want to experience.

And we’ve been able to take some pretty epic trips that are focused on our interests (even though we have a baby):

road trip around Scotland
backcountry camping at Cracker Lake in Glacier National Park
lived in our self-built campervan for 4 months
Christmas Market hopping in Europe

Cracker Lake Glacier National Park Backcountry camping

As our daughter gets older and has her own interests, the way we plan trips will likely change, but up until this point, this is what has been working for us.

Overall, I’m honestly surprised by how much our trips now are similar to the things we’d be doing before having a baby.

39. Get ready for some really special interactions

Something I wasn’t prepared for before having a child is the sweet interactions it would bring to our travels.

We’ve had so many different types of encounters – from servers at restaurants falling in love with Juniper (see pictures below) to people offering to help out when she’s crabby (this has happened multiple times!).

The last photo in the set above was taken at a Venezuelan bakery in Mexico where I was eating by myself with Juniper while Ben had dental surgery. She was just the slightest bit fussy, and the two sweet women behind the counter insisted that they would cheer her up while I eat my food.

Juniper is quite the conversation starter (she loves waving at strangers!), and has brought a whole new level of sweetness to our travels.

I’m so excited to watch Juniper grow up and experience kindness from different people all over the world.

*Excuse me while I go wipe my tears.*

40. Go ahead and book those damn flights!

Here’s my last piece of advice (for now!):

Just book it!

Don’t let the voices in your head (or your well-meaning neighbor!) scare you away.

If traveling with a baby is something that’s important to you, I know you can do it. And I’ll be your cheerleader rooting you on!

The first big trip with a baby can be daunting, but I have a feeling you’ll realize it’s not as scary as you’re building it up in your head to be.

And you’ll feel like such a badass for turning your dream into reality.

You might even find yourself daydreaming about your next big family vacation, which will feel a lot more doable since you’ve already got one trip under your belt.

Personal note from Katie

Europe Christmas Markets travel with a baby tips

I truly hope this article has been helpful to you and leaves you feeling encouraged about traveling with a baby and motivates you to start planning that dream trip. I also hope you’re able to take away some helpful nuggets that you can put into practice!

I do just want to say that if you want more content on traveling with a baby, please let us know.

I have been avoiding writing this article for a number of reasons (which I’ll go into below), but it was readers like you who encouraged me to ignore these thoughts and just write it anyway.

So why did I avoid writing this article?

Lemme spill the tea…

1. Giving parenting advice always attracts negative comments.

Anytime I share things we do as parents, there’s always someone to point out why they would do something differently. Or why traveling with kids in general is just selfish.

I’m only human, and negative messages and comments are not fun to deal with. So avoiding the whole “traveling with kids tips” felt like an easy way to avoid the negativity.

2. Traveling with a baby is very different for every single person.

Everyone parents differently and there’s no way I could create an article that would resonate with everyone.

This was kind of keeping me frozen in place, asking myself, “How do I give all parents advice about traveling with kids?”

And then I realized I didn’t need to. I just needed to share what has worked for us. I hope you’ve read this article with that lens.

Some of these suggestions may not work for you or your child. You know your situation best, so pick and choose the ideas and advice that feels good for you.

3. This isn’t a family travel blog.

We decided very early on that we didn’t want Two Wandering Soles to become only about traveling with kids as soon as we had a baby.

At its core, TWS will always be about responsible and adventurous travel . And we aim to share the best things to do in locations around the world, regardless of whether or not they’re family-friendly.

That said, we’ve realized that we can create family travel content without that being the only thing we write about.

4. Honestly, I don’t feel like an expert at parenting.

Beehive Loop hike with a baby Acadia National Park

We traveled to more than 50 countries before getting pregnant.

We lived out of a backpack for years on end, and called many different countries “home” for an extended period of time.

We have years and years of experience, and very much consider ourselves experts in all things travel-related.

But the whole parenting thing is new to us. We have one daughter. And at the time of writing this article, she is just over a year old.

So there’s a part of me who kept delaying sharing our “baby travel tips” until I felt like more of an “expert” as a parent.

But I’ve come to realize that parenting is something that we’re likely never going to feel like experts at . It is a continuous learning process, and as soon as we feel like we’re getting the hang of it, things change.

I finally became okay with the idea of creating content about traveling with kids without feeling like an expert. Because with the exception of people whose profession is related to parenting, we’re all just doing what we feel is best for our children.

And that might be as “expert level” as you can get.

Want more advice for traveling with a baby?

Our top tips for staying at a hotel or Airbnb with a baby
Feel confident on your flight with these tips for flying with a baby !

Save these tips so you don’t lose them!

Pin this article so you can easily come back to it…

We want to hear from you!

We hope these tips for traveling with a baby are helpful!

What advice would you add? Any travel hacks that have helped you? What questions or concerns do you still have?

Note: Please be respectful with your comments. Remember, we are sharing tips that have personally worked for us .

Comments (10) on “ 40 Practical & Encouraging Tips for Traveling with a Baby ”

Thank you for sharing your wisdom and experiences in such an engaging and relatable way. You’ve truly inspired me to create unforgettable memories with my baby. Keep the amazing content coming! Greetings!

Insightful travel tips with baby! I loved how you addressed the importance of booster car seats and how they ensure safety while on the road. Your practical advice on traveling with little ones is invaluable, especially for parents like us. As we plan our family adventures, we’ll be sure to consider the booster seat recommendations you shared. Thanks for helping us make our trips safer and more enjoyable for our baby!

Traveling with a baby can be a challenge, but having a reliable travel cot is a game-changer. It provides comfort and security for your little one, ensuring they have a familiar place to sleep and play. Investing in a lightweight and safe travel cot is a must for any parent on the go. Thanks for highlighting its importance in your informative article! -Baby Train-

I feel like I could tear up after reading this – what an invaluable resource! Thank you!

I have been following you both for quite a while & have been trying to implement the tips you’ve shared over the last few months. My baby is 4.5 months old & she is so chill. Maybe it’s her personality, but I also think it’s the way we’ve done things..which has a lot to do with the tips you’ve shared! She can sleep wherever. I’ve practiced changing her & feeding her in different places & she’s been to our local museums & coffee shops more times than I can count. Though I still get nervous about things (like her getting fussy in public, etc), she really makes it pretty dang easy. We’re hoping to spend a couple of months in Europe this summer, so I’ll probably be re-reading it & studying it so I can prepare us as best as possible.

Thank you again. <3

My children are older and I am still terrified of travel, I am so inspired by seeing you travel with Juniper! I am going to start being more brave!

So happy to hear this resonates. I totally get being scared – I am too hehe! Starting with small adventures near home has been so good at building our confidence and hopefully it helps you too. Wishing your family lots of memories and adventures in the years ahead!

As always, you nailed it with your advice and tips…and your honesty. I love what my father-in-law says that parenting is flying by the seat of your pants. So true! And I am a big believer that when you become a parent, you go with your gut because no one knows your kid like you do!

Juniper will grow up with a worldly perspective…what a gift you and Ben are giving her. Travel makes me joyful, too. I like what you wrote about being a better mom when you are happy…so true!

Last year my 21-yr-old daughter was so inspired by my travel blogging that she asked to take some trips with me. So we did and it was special! There is nothing better in this world than when your adult kids want to spend time with you…and in the form of travel!

What a wonderful foundation of love, adventure and joy you are building for your sweet girl.

I know this article will help a lot of traveling parents…and any negative comments you get…tune those right out! YOU are doing it right! Happy travels with your cutie pie baby girl!

Thank you so much for your kind words, Rachel. It means a lot! I bet seeing your kids grow into adults is unlike anything you can describe. And how cool that you get to share a passion with her! Thank you again!

This is amazing and such timely advice! My husband and I are due to have our first baby in May and we have been going back-and-forth about what kind of travel we want to do when he comes. This article has given me so much more confidence about the things that we can do with him and has really helped me see what is possible with a baby. Thank you so much for this! Keep the baby content coming! Your style of travel is so similar to ours and I love to see what you have done with Juniper so far!

Thank you so much, Stef, for the kind words. Truly just brought a smile to my face. So happy to know it resonates with you. And CONGRATULATIONS on this new and beautiful chapter. Wishing your family all the best!

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For expecting parents, travel can seem like one of those parts of life that’s off the table after having a baby. The ability to be spontaneous, to just pack a carry-on bag and head to some far-off destination for a few days, to run around exploring new cities, restaurants, beaches — all of it seems impossible. It doesn’t help that many parents and grandparents who have been there before will warn you to travel now, “while you still can!”

But as the parent of a now-16-month-old, I can say from experience that this is categorically false. I’ve now taken my daughter on many trips, including flights to the Midwest and Canada, and road trips to upstate New York and Washington, DC. The first trips we took were nerve-wracking: Did we pack all the right things for her? Would she sleep okay in the new place, thus allowing us, her parents, to sleep okay? Did we remember every possible item we might need to have at arm’s reach in the event of catastrophe while in transit?

With each successive trip, though, we got more and more confident. Each time, we learned a little bit more about how to optimize our travel routine. We learned what items we needed and what we would be fine without. We learned that you should definitely pack a lot of wet wipes, and that navigating the airport is a lot easier with a lightweight travel stroller than with your big everyday stroller.

You can absolutely travel with a baby, as long as you accept that it will look a little bit different from the way you traveled before. And one of the ways it looks different — besides having to juggle your vacation plans around the baby’s nap schedule — is that you need a lot of gear.

Specifically, there are a number of things that can make traveling with a baby or toddler much, much easier. There is a wide world of products out there, some of which are for making plane travel smoother, while others make vacation at your eventual destination more enjoyable. Wading through the options can be overwhelming, and it’s hard to know which products are worth the money and/or packing space.

The recommendations we’ve put together — by talking to travel experts, parenting specialists, and seasoned moms and dads on the Vox staff — are not meant to be one-size-fits-all. Pick and choose what feels most useful and valuable to you based on your travel style and budget. You might, for instance, be totally fine skipping a travel high chair if you don’t mind having your baby sit on your lap for meals. You might feel your regular stroller works well enough for vacation and you don’t need a travel stroller.

And remember: You don’t always have to spend money to get these products. A secret of modern parenting is there is a whole economy of parents swapping baby and kid stuff they’re done with. Ask friends and family who have kids older than yours if they have what you need, or source from a neighborhood parent group or local Buy Nothing group . If you’re able to get (or borrow!) something for free, that can be more valuable than having the “best” brand .

Things to pack that are genuinely useful

Travel stroller.

That perfect stroller that you spent months researching and selecting before the baby was born? It may not be very well-suited to traveling, particularly if it’s a big, heavy model. When traveling, you want something that’s lightweight and compact, since you’ll need to fold up the stroller when going through TSA checkpoints and when gate-checking it.

All of this means traveling will be easier if you get a second stroller specifically designed for travel. There are two kinds: travel strollers , which generally fold up into thirds in a little compact rectangle, and umbrella strollers , which tend to be cheaper than travel strollers and fold up more like a long stick or umbrella shape.

I have the Summer Infant 3DLite stroller, which is a relatively inexpensive, light umbrella stroller. This thing has gotten us through trips big and small.

Summer Infant 3DLite stroller , $79

For a travel stroller, Vox audio producer Victoria Chamberlin recommends the GB Pockit+ All-Terrain stroller: “We took this to Germany, Scotland, and Italy. It folds to half the size of a rolly suitcase and can go under most seats and in all overhead compartments,” Chamberlin said. “Highly recommend if you have an international flight connection because if you gate check a stroller, you will not get it back until your final destination. When we got stranded in London overnight, I was very happy I had this in my hot hands.”

GB Pockit+ All-Terrain Stroller , $280

And Corinne McDermott, author of the travel website Have Baby Will Travel , recommends just bringing your regular stroller on trips, provided it can play double duty. “It’s not necessary to purchase a second stroller specifically for travel if your main one works well,” McDermott says. “A stroller is not just a stroller when it comes to travel with babies and little kids. It is a bed, a high chair, a buggy for all of your stuff, and a baby jail for when you need to know your baby is in a secure spot while your hands are full and attention is elsewhere. Our beloved stroller was the UPPAbaby Vista, which was our everyday stroller that worked great for travel. It is easy to maneuver, the basket holds a lot, it’s high enough to push up to a table for mealtimes, and the deep recline was great for naps.”

UppaBaby Vista V2 Stroller , $969

Travel car seat

One of the most annoying things about traveling with a baby is that you need to lug your car seat around everywhere if you plan to take a taxi or ride in any car at all. You could try bringing your regular car seat if it’s small, like an infant car seat — but otherwise, most parents I know recommend leaving the heavy convertible car seat in your car and getting a much lighter travel version.

Vox video managing producer Val Lapinski recommends the Cosco Scenera Next, a travel car seat that weighs just 10 pounds. Says Val: “It’s ubiquitous for a reason — it weighs nothing.”

After having a miserable time dragging our bulky convertible car seat through Newark Airport and around our destination of Toronto, my husband and I bought the Cosco car seat upon Val’s recommendation to use for our future travels. Just a month later, we took it on a trip to Chicago and immediately knew it had been worth it. It was much lighter and easier to carry around; my husband’s shoulders were grateful.

Cosco Scenera Next car seat , $60

Travel bags for both the car seat and stroller

If you’re flying, most airlines allow you to gate-check a stroller and a car seat for free. But items can be damaged during the gate-check process, so it’s a good idea to invest in travel bags to protect them from scratches and other wear and tear. I have these simple red bags from J.L. Childress.

J.L. Childress Car Seat Gate Check Bag , $20

J.L. Childress Stroller Gate Check Bag , $23

A lightweight baby carrier

If your baby is still small enough for babywearing , bring a carrier — it’s nice for carrying the baby around the airport once you check or gate-check your stroller, and it’ll be helpful when you want to do short outings where a stroller might feel cumbersome, like going to a restaurant.

Emily Oster, an economist and author of the parenting books Expecting Better , Cribsheet , and The Family Firm , recommends the BityBean carrier: “It’s a very lightweight baby carrier that goes front or back and can range from a very small baby up through a 2-year-old. I spent many an hour in the back of an airplane flight bouncing a kid in this thing. Generally, in my view, the less gear the better, so this was a big win when we discovered it.”

BityBean Ultra Compact Baby Carrier , $70

Travel crib

Unless you’re staying somewhere that offers a crib, you will need a travel crib that folds up compactly and is easy to carry around to provide a safe sleep space for your baby.

The Graco Pack ’n Play is beloved by many parents (including myself). It’s easy to assemble, fold up, carry, and store, and comes with a bassinet attachment for younger babies.

Graco Pack ’n Play Playard , $80

Chamberlin recommends the Guava Lotus travel crib: “This is way lighter and easier to put together than a pack and play, and takes up less space as a backpack than similar models. Also, it has a bassinet insert you can get if your baby is that little.”

Guava Lotus Travel Crib , $249

Travel high chair

You most likely already have a high chair at home, but when traveling, you might want one that’s easy to collapse and carry.

Says Chamberlin: “This is our go-to travel high chair. It is good for the floor, and also attaches to a dining chair. And if you take the tray off, it’s a camp chair. We have used it for travel to visit family, camping, and hotels.”

Summer Infant Portable Booster Chair , $30

Baby headphones, if you’re into screen time

Screen time can be a godsend on vacation when you want to have a nice dinner at a restaurant and need your toddler to sit still and be quiet for a little while. Bring your iPad with preloaded shows, but don’t forget baby headphones so the rest of the restaurant’s patrons don’t have to listen to Ms. Rachel. I use these.

BuddyPhones Explore+ Headphones , $30

Portable white noise machine

One of the most important keys to a successful vacation with your baby is sleep. Maintaining a baby’s sleep schedule and making sure they get adequate naps and good sleep at night, even in a new setting, is crucial. If you use a white noise machine at home as many parents do, then you likely want a small portable one to pack on vacation. I use this one, which is chargeable and has a little hook that makes it easy to strap onto your stroller or car seat for naps on the go, too.

Yogasleep Hushh Portable White Noise Machine , $27

Portable blackout curtains

Many kids need total darkness to be able to sleep, and the varying light situation in hotels and Airbnbs can wreak havoc on daytime naps. Many Vox parents recommend portable blackout curtains to create that perfect darkness — everyone will be happier if the baby has had a solid nap.

Catherine Spangler, a supervising producer on Vox’s video team, says: “These blackout curtains with suction cups have been lifesavers across three continents for us.” The suction cups make them easy to attach to any window, and they’re lightweight and easy to fold up and throw into your carry-on bag.

Tommee Tippee Portable Blackout Curtains , $19

A diaper bag that holds everything you need for the flight

A diaper bag that holds and organizes all the essentials you might need in flight — from diapers and wipes to snacks and bottles and the iPad and headphones and an extra change of clothes — is important to a less stressful flight.

Your everyday bag might work, but Jessica Darrington, who runs the baby travel website and Instagram Where Is Briggs, also recommends the ultra-structured travel diaper bag from No Reception Club. Says Darrington: “This diaper bag has been a game changer when traveling with a baby because it has kept all of our gear organized. I’m amazed at everything I can fit inside and love that this bag counts as a personal item and can go under the seat in front of me on the airplane.”

No Reception Club “The Getaway” Bag , $235

Things you can probably skip bringing

Tons of diapers.

Save your suitcase space and bring only enough diapers to get you through the trip — you can always buy more diapers when you arrive at your destination.

The SlumberPod

As far as I can tell, this is basically a tent for babies to sleep in , but the entire $180 tent is made of blackout shades. Some parents I know love it, but we’ve never invested in one — portable blackout shades have worked just fine for us and are much cheaper.

Travel baby monitor

Travel baby monitors are things that exist, but there are also a million baby monitor apps that turn devices like iPads, with cameras and microphones, into monitors that stream to your phone. Save your money and skip buying a travel-specific device.

How to travel now

Respectful Tourism
Solo Travel
Flight Advice
The “Perfect” Vacation

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How I've kept traveling -- even after having a baby

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Before I had a baby, I had traveled to almost 60 countries and was on a plane every other week.

A huge fan of solo travel , yoga retreats with friends and adventurous escapes with my husband, I was always on the move. Thanks to the ability to work remotely, travel was easy. Then COVID-19 hit, and shortly after, I got pregnant .

So life changed, and so did travel.

But now that travel is picking up again , I'm back at it — with my eight-month-old in tow.

Here's how — and why — I've navigated travel with a baby.

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Why I travel with my baby

Because i have to, and so does he.

I live in Europe and my entire family lives in the United States . Like it or not, my child will have to constantly go back and forth between the two continents, and I want this to become second nature for him. I started flying with my child when he was three months old. He's already on his 15th flight and 4th high-speed train ride -- and has a few road trips under his elastic waistband.

Have some flights been really easy? Yes. Have some flights been harder? Also yes. But it doesn't matter all that much either way, because we have to travel if we want to spend time with friends and family back in the United States. And most of the flights, with a few small exceptions, have been great.

Even you don't need to travel with a baby, just know it's possible. It may not always be easy, but you can absolutely do it if you want to.

I want him to experience the wonders of the world instead of material things

My apartment was recently broken into. As violating and frustrating as it was, I realized that I was able to get over the things they took from me (cash and jewelry) relatively quickly, even though some of the jewelry pieces were family heirlooms.

When I'm still traumatized emotionally about having my space invaded, the robbers couldn't take from me what I most valued: my family and our shared experiences, especially the ones we've had traveling.

My hope is that my son will grow up understanding these same lessons and placing value on experiences and connections instead of things. And the best way to show this is by modeling the same behavior for him, which is often what motivates me to plan that next family vacation .

Because it's fun

Playing with my son in the peaceful Caribbean ocean waves, watching him stare at the Chicago skyline with awe or seeing him smile at the iconic Eiffel Tower are memories I'll never forget. Although he definitely won't remember these trips, we will — and we'll have lots of photos to show him one day.

How I make travel with my baby easier

Traveling with a baby isn't always easy. From diaper blowouts during landing and bleary-eyed nights with a jet-lagged infant to nasty stares from passengers if my overtired son shrieks during take-off, traveling with a baby has its downsides and complications. Here are some hacks I use to make it easier.

I bring someone along to help

I know I'll travel alone with my child as he gets older. However, for now, whenever possible, I try to have another adult in tow to help out — whether that be my partner, a family member or friend.

While I'm not expecting a friend to deal with a crying baby or his meltdowns, it's helpful to have someone along to help carry luggage, make sure I don't forget my jacket in the airport, hold the baby while I head to the restroom or help me fold up the stroller at TSA .

These little things can really make a difference when traveling. Once my child can at least walk on his own, I'll start traveling with just the two of us.

I pack as light as possible

It's true that kids — and especially babies — can need a lot of stuff. And there are things I really don't want to be stuck without on a long plane ride like diapers or snacks (more on this in a moment).

When traveling with my baby, I try to bring everything I need but don't go overboard. I swear by lightweight travel strollers and always take along a baby carrier and diaper backpack for a hands-free airport experience.

I like to book rental properties with as many baby and kid amenities already present as possible, such as a crib, high chair and more to avoid taking extra stuff along. I've also used rental companies in destinations for key items such as car seats, too.

Always bring these key items — especially when flying

What you can carry with you when flying is obviously very different than what you can lug along on a road trip, which offers you more space and added flexibility. That being said, these are key items I always take in my carry-on when flying with a baby:

Extra clothing for both you and your baby (yes, trust me, you need a backup outfit just in case).
Layers of clothing or blankets (plane temperatures can vary).
Pacifier and clip (and backup).
Comfort toy or blanket.
Extra diapers (enough for an unexpected delay).
Formula/breast milk/pump.
Snacks (for you and/or your baby).
Baby wipes.
Sanitizing wipes.
Extra bibs.
Ziploc bags for soiled clothing (or a reusable, waterproof bag).
Baby Tylenol or any infant medications.
A basic first aid kit.
Small toy(s).
Anything that can help your baby fall asleep.

For more on what to pack and how to prepare for traveling with a baby, read this article .

Use points and miles for a more comfortable and affordable trip

This may be an unpopular opinion, but I love using my points and miles to fly in business class with my baby .

He's actually better behaved than other passengers in some cases. Also, having the extra space to stretch out makes a real difference for all of us, especially on long-haul flights where sleep is essential for the entire family.

I have also dipped into my stash of points and miles to buy three seats in economy, taking a car seat along so my baby can safely sit in his own seat, even though that isn't required at this age. The bassinet was once an option if I had enough points or miles for just two seats, although now my baby has surpassed the weight limit.

If you want to use the bassinet, always call the airline to see if this option is available and what the weight/size limits are, which can vary by airline or even route .

I verbally prepare my baby for travel

I'm well aware that my baby probably can't understand what I'm saying. But as he gets older, he is starting to recognize words, and I want "airplane" to be one of them as quickly as possible. Whenever we travel, I softly and carefully explain to him what's happening several days in advance each day before the trip.

I tell him we're going to fly high in the sky on a plane, that we need to be calm, quiet and happy. I tell him that we'll be spending time with many other people in a small space, so we need to not scream or kick the seat in front of us and bother other passengers.

I explain that we're visiting a certain destination or specific family members or friends, where we'll be sleeping and for how long we'll be gone.

One day, he'll slowly begin to associate these explanations with the journeys that follow them. Kids ask a lot of questions and want to understand what's going on, so I hope explaining things to him will help him feel safe and in control as he gets older, as well as excited to fly and to travel.

I fly or take a train trip at least every two months with my son

I realize that as someone who's worked remotely for more than 10 years, I'm afforded the flexibility to travel frequently and take my son along with me. I'm teaching my child how to eat properly and sleep well, and will pretty soon potty train, so I'm training him to travel, too.

With the convenience of low-cost air carriers and high-speed trains here in Europe (and a solid stash of points and miles), it's easy to get my baby on a plane or train every few months to get — and keep — him used to travel and make it part of a familiar routine.

I minimize travel stress with early arrivals, elite status and lounge access

Running through the airport with a baby and luggage is stressful and not at all how I want to start a trip.

I find the calmer I am, the calmer our whole family is — especially my baby, who tends to absorb my energy and mental state. Getting to the airport with lots of extra time helps me feel relaxed and in control — and these feelings transfer to everyone in my travel party, especially my son.

Having elite status and lounge access doesn't hurt, either, as I can avoid long lines and hang out in the lounge if I have time to kill before flying.

Both The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve card offer lounge access, and considering my home airport of Madrid Barajas (MAD) has several really nice Sala VIPs that are part of the Priority Pass network, I find this credit card perk a valuable one.

My Oneworld Sapphire status makes flying on airlines like Iberia much more comfortable, too, allowing me to use the business class check-in area, board first and check a bag at no added cost.

I plan flights around bedtime and nap times whenever possible

While my son sleeps fairly well on planes, I prefer to plan flights strategically at times where he'll already be fed, calm and rested. Although I can't always make this happen, I do so whenever my schedule and flight schedules permit it.

I organize sightseeing and beach days around naps, too

When traveling, I always try to organize my days so that my baby can either nap at the hotel or vacation rental, or while we walk in his stroller.

Cobblestoned European streets are particularly helpful in coaxing my son to sleep in his stroller, as the vibration is relaxing for him. I also bring everything along possible to encourage sleep while on the road — a portable sound machine in the stroller, a portable night light, his lovey, a tent for the beach , our own sheet for the travel crib to remind him of home — really anything that will help him to nap and sleep, keeping him and the whole family calm and happy.

Bottom line

While I'm not hopping on a flight every other week like I was in those pre-pandemic, pre-baby days, having a baby hasn't ruined travel for me.

I know it can be more restrictive and more expensive, but I now look at travel in a whole new way. I see it as an opportunity to bond as a family, give my son new experiences and help him grow into a flexible, excited young traveler .

My hope is that starting with these experiences while he is young will make travel a habit for him, just like going to school or playing with friends — something he is familiar with and learns to love and do with joy.

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Dear Life Kit
Life Skills

We asked, you answered: Parent-approved tips on traveling with kids under 2

Becky Harlan

Photograph of a baby sitting next to an open carryon suitcase filled with clothing and other travel items, all against a light pink backdrop.

Last month, Life Kit asked parents to share their go-to advice for traveling with babies and toddlers under age 2 as part of an episode we did on the subject. Over 200 folks responded with tips they wish they'd known before taking a big trip with a little one.

Reading through these responses, it became clear there's no magic hack that works for every kid. Some parents swore by sticking to their kid's sleep schedule on a trip, others said their vacation was smoother when they let the usual routine go. Some sang the praises of the overnight flight (so their child would sleep on the plane), others said their child has never slept more than 10 minutes on a plane no matter the timing.

I flew to Japan with my baby. Here's the travel advice that helped me survive the trip

A few pieces of advice held true throughout. A hungry kid is an unpleasant kid, and children are messy. So packing lots of snacks, extra diapers and a change of clothes ranked high on the list of must-dos. Almost 40 of over 200 responses suggested packing extra outfits in your carry-on for your kid and for you. (If your charge spits up, throws up, blows out or spills it will also get on you!)

So here's a non-exhaustive, impossible-to-be-comprehensive, but-hopefully-still-helpful round-up of your top advice for traveling with little kids. These responses have been edited for length and clarity.

What to pack

A stroller that can be stored in the overhead bin. It's a game changer to not have to check clunky strollers at the gate or check-in counters. —Amy P.

A change of clothes for yourself. If the baby spits up or has a blowout, there's a high likelihood that the mess will end up on you too, especially if you're holding them. Also, be sure to bring a bag to put messy clothes in. Reusable waterproof bags are great and they keep the smell in! —Jenna Yount

Extra diapers. You think you will be fine but if something comes up it's not a good situation to be in. —Jeanna Limtiaco

Overnight diapers. Fewer diaper changes in transit makes everyone happier. —Samantha Warren

Snacks. Remember, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration allows for any size baby food [and baby or toddler beverage], so pack those pouches! —Clara W.

Meds you and your kids might need in flight. That includes chewable Tylenol, Imodium, Dramamine, Zofran, ginger chews, Band-Aids and alcohol wipes. —Paige Ellis

A dark-colored bath towel. It's a blanket, it's for tidying up, it's a tablecloth, it's a sun cover, it shields bottoms from hot slides, it dries off swings. It's a multi-tasking powerhouse. —Judith Heise

Consider what may make sense to buy, rent or borrow upon arrival. You don't need to stuff everything into your suitcase. Buy some of your diapers and snacks at your destination. See if you can borrow or rent large, bulky items like car seats or travel cribs from Facebook Marketplace or your hotel or Airbnb. —Jocelyn Newman

How to get through the flight

Get to your gate an hour before boarding. It gives you time to feed your child, change their diapers, have a cup of coffee and fill your water bottle. It can also help your kid let out their energy before they have to sit on the plane. —Shelly C.

Check the airport for family friendly spaces. Use nursing spaces or pods and family restrooms to reset as needed. Check lounges for nursing and play rooms. —Sara Conger

Take an early morning flight. Those are least likely to get delayed, which is important when traveling with kids. —Carina Ochoa

Parenthood Is A Shock To The System. These Tips Can Help You With The Transition

Board with your partner separately. If you're traveling with two caregivers, have one go on the plane first with all the stuff and do the gate-checking of the stroller while the other hangs back with the kids until the last minute. It gives kids more time to run around! —Andrea De Francesca

Get a plane seat for your kid. Even though many airlines allow kids under 2 to fly for free as a lap baby, if you can afford to get them their own seat, it is worth it. It is recommended for safety to have them in a car seat, according to the Federal Aviation Administration, and the extra space for them to move around is nice. —Nicole Shelledy

Be ready for motion sickness. We were not prepared for how easily some little ones get motion sickness on an airplane. Have throw-up bags handy at all times. —Tiff Bankhurst

Prevent ear discomfort. Sucking during take off and landing may help relieve ear discomfort. My babies have flown with me from 4 weeks onward and never had a problem as long as they had a bottle or sippy cup or straw to suck on. —Shelly Ransom

Don't plan on them sleeping on the plane. It's great if they do, but if it doesn't happen, you'll be frustrated. —Colleen Mayerhoff

Don't worry too much about your kid "bothering" other people. The vast majority of people don't care, and many have been in the same situation you've been in and feel nothing but empathy for you. As for those who do care, they are not guaranteed a child-free existence in public. Kids are part of society too, and they are also allowed to take up space. —Jenna Yount

Make friends with the flight crew. They're going to help, they've got more experience than you, and they also want the flight to be pleasant. —April Graham

Save the screens for the flight. If you're using a screen, wait until you're on the plane. While you're waiting in the terminal, let them move as much as possible. Find an empty gate and play Simon Says, see who can jump in one place the longest, do animal charades. Let them go wild. —Paige Ellis

Download age-appropriate shows for your child on an iPad. (But know that if your kid is under age 2 they'll mostly just want to push the buttons.) —Chantel Dockstader

Travel hacks

Find a lodging close to a grocery store and a park. It makes it easy to buy last-minute things and burn off their energy easily at a park. —Gillian Molina

Dress your young kids in bright, matching shirts. I once traveled alone when my kids were 2, 4 and 6. We all wore matching yellow shirts so people could see we were together. —Emily Hernandez

If you want to let your little one crawl around , bring a pair of socks that you can put over their hands. Then you don't have to worry about dirty hands afterward. —Shannon Geraghty

Hire a photographer. You'll have photos with everyone in them, maybe get to see some scenic parts of the city you hadn't seen before. Dress up, wear matching outfits, be extra! They're only little once. —Tina Doyle

Helpful mindsets

It's not a vacation. It's a trip. You're just parenting in a new place. Set your expectations accordingly. —Laura Henriquez

The airport/train/bus/car is not the time to enforce the normal at-home rules. Do you want Doritos at 7 a.m. at the airport? OK. Do you want to watch 20 episodes of Blippi on the plane? No problem. There are no rules when traveling. This also makes traveling fun for kids because they get to do something different. —Meg Houston

Build in extra time to do things. It will decrease the chances of you and your child getting into stressful situations. —Cori DeLano

You're not going to get as much done as you think with a kiddo in tow. Think about things like nap schedule, traveling with a stroller, meltdowns, diaper changes. On my most "successful" trip with my kiddo, we planned one big activity a day and left the rest of the day open with some general ideas and left room for flexibility. —Whitney Winters

They might not remember, but you will. —Nina Hartman

The digital story was edited by Malaka Gharib. The visual editor is Beck Harlan. We'd love to hear from you. Leave us a voicemail at 202-216-9823, or email us at [email protected].

Listen to Life Kit on Apple Podcasts and Spotify , and sign up for our newsletter .

Life Kit: Parenting

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Road Trip with Baby: Essential Travel Packing List & Tips

Written by Becca

Updated on April 30th, 2024

A list of baby items laid out on a marble table.

How do you take a road trip with a baby for the first time? Check out my essential travel packing list for everything your infant needs during a trip.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Table of contents

Feeding & Nursing
Clothes & accessories
Grooming & medicine
Transport: strollering, driving, car seat and carrying
Learn more about road trips for babies!

Traveling with an infant is incredibly daunting when you first decide to take a short trip with your baby. How will you set up a safe place for sleeping? How will you pack enough to cover every possible situation? How many bottles is enough?

We took three trips between our baby being three and six months, and having a standard packing list gave us peace of mind. We borrowed suggestions from friends and family, and put together the best of all the recommendations.

In this packing list, you’re welcome to switch around the quantities of all items based on how long your trip is. Also, note that this list was for three road trips and not for flying. Nothing we brought was specific to TSA-approved sizes and our luggage wasn’t optimized for a flight.

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Here’s the list of road trip items we took, many of which are the best baby products for travel .

The below list is based on a three-day two-night trip during which I’m nursing and giving a few bottles here and there. Of course, you have your own methods of feeding your infant during the trip , and no two parents nor babies are alike in this regard. For all the clothing recommendations (along with sleep sacks, bibs, etc.), I liberally pack an extra in case there are “accidents.”

Ready for our road trip baby packing list? Here it goes.

If you are flying with your infant, check out this list of crucial tips for taking a flight with your baby!

Feeding & Nursing

Whether you’re nursing or exclusively bottle feeding, there are some essentials to consider.

Bottles : We like Comotomo and Lansinoh .
Bottle brush & stand : This OXO stand has been great.
Pacifiers (2) : Check out Avent and the Avent + animal !
Burp cloths (3-4) : We like aden & anais .
Bibs (3-4) : aden & anais make great bibs as well.
Vitamin D drops : We have these .
+ flanges (6)
+ duckbill valves (6)
+ tubing (2)
+ backflow protectors (2)
6 Spectra milk bottles and tops : Check them out .
Milk cooler with ice pack : We have this one , and it fits most standard 5oz bottles.
Frozen milk (1 bag) : We use the Lansinoh storage bags . I bring frozen milk on our way when we leave home, so that it survives the car ride in the cooler.

Our strategy for bottles is to have enough for feeding, storage and a few extra. When they are empty, we clean them right away and cycle through them like that. We also put Vitamin D drops in each bottle for feeding, so we’ll always have a few storage bottles ready to dish out.

A white container with a green toothbrush and a green brush.

Also the bottle supplies that I mention are optimized for 5oz bottles. You might need slightly different supplies for the bigger 8oz bottles.

For babies eating solids

Jars or pouches of baby food (however many your child consumes)
High chair : Take a look at this clip-on high chair . A foldable travel high chair also works!
Booster seat : Try this one from OXO .
Spoons/utensils : We’ve had the best luck with these spoons .
Silicone bibs : Check these out and pick from lots of different colors.
More wipes !: We like these water wipes .

We make our own baby food, and our baby eats whatever we have in the house! For convenience, I can see how the pouches could be a quick and easy solution to have food on the go. You can put out only as much as you need and use your own spoon, then save the rest for minimal clean up.

Sometimes at home, we keep our daughter sitting up right and hold her to give her some food. So the clip-on high chairs and booster seats are only necessary when independent solid eating is more of a thing.

More diapers are better than fewer, especially if you’ll be in a remote location like we were when we went up to the northwestern Catskills to stay in a country house. There wasn’t a Walmart for MILES! Luckily, I learned from our trip the month before that I should pack diapers like they’re going out of style, and we survived plenty fine.

I had already corrected all my former mistakes when we went away to Litchfield County, CT , when our daughter was 7 months, and came home with a heap of diapers to spare.

One thing I like to have on hand is little plastic throw-away baggies for diapers when disposing of them in a hotel or Airbnb. I save the ones we use as produce bags at the supermarket and then load up my diaper bag with those. They are so handy. If you’re looking for something more compact for storing (or already have a dog) these dog #2 storage bags might also work.

Diapers : Find your brand and size on Amazon . For a three-day trip, I took 30 diapers.
Wipes : We use these water wipes .
Diaper balm : We like diaper balm with a lid , to prevent accidental spills.
Little garbage bags for diapers
Changing pad : This one is great for most babies.

For the diapers, it’s best if you leave them in the original packaging to help save on space. We found that bringing loose diapers takes up more room in our already cramped bags.

Our diaper bag has a changing pad that never leaves our bag. When we travel, we change our daughter with the pad on the floor. This is a good practice in case there’s an accident. We are not prepared to scrub any carpets while away!

It’s also likely that you may have these items in your diaper bag. It would be a good idea to make sure you have extra / a spare set for a makeshift changing station at your accommodation.

Clothes & accessories

When we went upstate to Livingston Manor for three days, I almost laughed: we came home with exactly one diaper left in the diaper bag and our daughter’s luggage combined. ONE!

This was because we went through quite a few changes of clothes, if you know what I mean. And if there are overnight accidents, you may have a soiled sleep sack or swaddle.

A white t - shirt and a white hoodie on a marble floor.

In addition to the extra outfits I leave in the diaper bag, I was happy with the number of backup clothes and pajamas I had packed, as we almost went through everything. In my guide to how to visit NYC with a baby , I discuss the importance of bringing clothing layers for changes in weather.

Zippy pajamas (3-4) : We’ve had good luck with Carters brand PJs .
Outdoor blankets (1) : For colder months, try this type of blanket .
Daytime outfits (with spares) : These Carter onsies and pants are great staples!
Booties or socks : You can never have too many socks .
Sun hat : Hats work great for keeping the sun out of your baby’s eyes.
Headbands or hair bow clips : So cute !

We’ve liked bringing plenty of headbands and hair bows for times when we’ve wanted our daughter to look cute in a photo.

A set of baby headbands on a marble table.

Grooming & medicine

For babies with hair, you might want to consider packing a comb or brush. For us, we do a quick hair combing at bedtime as part of the routine.

For all other medicine and health products, it’s up to you. We haven’t had to use any of the medicines while away from home, but you truly never know what can happen and what you’ll want to have in your back pocket if your child is soon to be teething, comes down with some congestion or is having bouts with gas pains.

Frida nail file & clipper : The Frida Baby Grooming Kit has everything you need.
Hair comb or brush : We like this comb because it has an extra fine side.
Medicine for unexpected scenarios : ( Acetominaphen , gas drops , Snotsucker )
Thermometer : We got this digital one .
Rattle toys, teether toys : Our baby LOVES these teethers .

A set of toothbrushes and brushes on a marble countertop.

A tip from my cousin, an expert mom of two, is to bring along “identifying docs” for your child, even when your baby doesn’t have an official ID or baby passport yet, like an immunization report or other medical record (even a physical photocopy of baby’s birth certificate would be a “better-safe-than-sorry” thing to have!).

Transport: strollering, driving, car seat and carrying

We have become UPPAbaby people and we are super happy with the choice to buy into the UPPAbaby ecosystem of strollers and car seats. We picked up the Minu stroller for traveling purposes and it has saved a ton of trunk space when compared to the larger and sturdier UPPAbaby Vista stroller we keep at home.

For unexpected weather or bugginess in summer locations, opt for bringing both the rain cover and the insect net covers for your car seat or rumble seat.

UPPAbaby Minu travel stroller : We’re happy with ours and it saves trunk space. Check it out or read our UPPAbaby Minu review here!
UPPAbaby Mesa car seat : Check prices on Amazon for this sturdy car seat.
UPPAbaby stroller parent console : Ours lives on our stroller, even when folded. Check it out .
UPPAbaby Mesa rain cover and bug screen cover : The rain shield and bug screen have been helpful!
UPPAbaby car window shields : Help keep the sun out of your baby’s eyes. Check it out .
Baby Safety Car Mirror : We have one of these in our car at home, and if you will be renting a car at your destination, be sure to bring along your own baby car mirror .
A baby carrier you love : If you have car space to spare, opt for a strong baby carrier like the Baby Tula Explore Carrier . If you’re short on space, go the route of an ultralightweight carrier like Baby Tula Carrier Lite ; for more ideas, see my list of the best baby carriers for travel .
*A hiking carrier : For adventurous parents, as well as for toddlers and larger kids who like being carried, consider a hiking carrier. We like ours, which you can read about that the Deuter Kid Comfort Venture review .

The baby tula lite carrier fully closed with everything packed away.

While our daughter doesn’t exactly love the Pack ‘n Play, it’s a fact of life when you leave home for travel. The first trip we took with her when she was 13 weeks was when we used the bassinet from our UPPAbaby Vista stroller ! That way, she wasn’t sleeping in a foreign environment.

With the Pack ‘n Play, we make sure the mattress cover is clean before we leave home, and we bring a backup sheet in case it gets soiled. Another hack has been the blackout cover, which simulates darkness for the baby if you’re in a place with lots of windows or no dark curtains. It also gives the baby their own sense of space if you’re all in one hotel room, like we say in our guide to staying in a hotel with your baby .

BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light : This travel crib is so easy to set up and take apart, and it’s tons lighter than a Graco Pack ‘n Play. Check it out or read our review .
Pack ‘n Play sheet with spare sheet : This one should work great!
Pack ‘n Play blackout cover : We have this one .
SlumberPod : This is a blackout tent to use during travel! It goes over an entire travel crib and parents swear by it.
Baby monitor : We’ve been happy with our monitor . You don’t need Wi-Fi, so it’s easy to set up anywhere.
Audio baby monitor : If you want as a backup, or alternative to video, you can check out the audio-only options.
HALO & Nested Bean sleep sacks (2) : We love our HALO , and we’ve been using the Nested Bean as a backup.
Hatch Rest+ sound machine : We like the Rest+ because it has an easy charging base.
Amazon Basics portable suction cup blackout curtains : These curtains help to darken a room so your little one sleeps longer!

We feel a little silly bringing the Hatch because it’s such a big sound machine. The backup battery has actually been a huge help because we once lost power and we’re glad we still had some white noise going. Something like this might be a better option.

Plus, we use a portable travel sound machine (you can also get it on Amazon ) on our stroller or with our a travel-friendly baby carrier while taking walks, to help create some familiar and consistent white noise It works out great, whether on the road or at home.

Learn more about road trips for babies!

From our experience, here are some of the things that we’ve learned that have been helpful in making everyone happy during the adventure.

And as a heads up, you can check our the rest of our articles on traveling with a baby to learn everything you can, as well as our list of the best essential road trip accessories for everyone in the car.

What to expect on your first trip with a baby

I actually kind of expected the worst, in traveling with a baby. How would naps work? Would we have to stop for feeding? How would our child sleep at night, the first time away from home?

This all felt kind of crazy, but we knew we had to take the plunge if we ever wanted to introduce our daughter into our world of travel.

Our first trip with her was at 13 weeks. I was largely doing okay, three-ish months postpartum, and we were finally comfortable with the world of being parents. Also, I don’t want to sugarcoat this at all: our baby was far from sleeping through the night, and as my best friend put it, “If you’re going to be sleep deprived and doing night feeds, why not at least be away from home on a vacation?”

While New Hampshire at the end of winter is far from tropical and didn’t involve any skiing or snowy sports for us, it’s where my extended family gets together every year in mid-March. I didn’t want to be left out, so we took our tiny newborn along (easier said than done).

Here’s a few tips for what to expect and how things really went, that time, and the two times we went up to the Catskills when our child was 5 months and then 6 months. While both trips were very different from each other, we decided to risk it (again!) by going up to Litchfield County, CT , when she was 7 months old as well!

Naps and sleeping tips for road trips

On the way up to New Hampshire and down from New Hampshire, our baby took some of her best naps of the month in the car. Her naps were a total grab bag and we never know what to expect, especially if we were going to be in the car for more than two hours. We were graced with some two-hour naps during the five-hour drive, and when we stopped for bathrooms, I fed her in the rest area or in the front seat of the car.

When we went to Nova Scotia, we planned a day trip excursions from Halifax and timed our planning with the baby’s three-nap schedule.

Keeping your baby entertained during the car ride

When she wasn’t napping, one of us sat in the back and tried to entertain her with toys and a book. It’s hard to say if it worked. During our road trips with her two and three months later, we both sat up front and if she needed consoling, I’d reach my arm back to hold a pacifier in her mouth. We had her teether beads and a fruit teether attached by a pacifier clip in her car seat.

I recommend having some toys or teethers, depending on your baby’s age, attached to the car seat straps so they don’t get lost or dropped during the ride.

Feeding during car rides

Most babies eat every 1.5-2 hours in the first few months of life, and ours certainly did. Even at five and six months, she likes to eat every two hours if she can. Some babies are on an every-three-hours feeding schedule by this point, but that’s not something that worked for us. Much of this experience inspired me to write about how to feed a baby during travels .

If a baby is hungry during a car ride, you’ll know. It’ll be chaos. If our child cried, we turned up the music, held a pacifier in her mouth and sang her favorite lullaby on repeat. Being a parent is far from glamorous!

During some stops, we gave her a full feed, depending on when she had last eaten. I did this in rest area cafeteria booths, the front seat of our car in a Trader Joe’s parking lot In Connecticut and in a Panera off the highway, most recently. I think a good tip is to get comfortable feeding your baby at the right time, and the place is less important.

The importance of the diaper bag

Just like when you go out for the day, having a robust diaper bag is crucial during a road trip. And I mean “two spare outfits” level of robust. We have been using Nike’s diaper backpack and it’s good for travel. Check out more photos at my Nike Diaper Bag review .

On our most recent trip with our baby when she was six months, there was a diaper blowout just as we hit our first stop, and I wound up doing an entire outfit and diaper change on a picnic table in a covered pavilion as it began to rain. Good thing we had weather-appropriate attire in a packing cube in the diaper bag, along with enough wipes and diapers and of course, hand sanitizer.

Other things I keep in the diaper bag are my new nursing cover, a small Hakka pump, a disassembled Medela hand pump, spare Medela milk vials, a changing pad and a spare light blanket for miscellaneous use. I suggest keeping your diaper bag contents constant so that if something is missing, you can figure it out.

I use the same diaper bag contents on a regular trip to the supermarket, as well as a trip up to the countryside.

As a secondary diaper bag for when I’m just getting out of the car at a rest area, or going somewhere with only the carrier and not a full stroller setup, I’m into the Kibou fanny pack diaper bag .

It’s also crucial for a diaper change on a plane , for the next time you fly.

For a limited time: Join the list for 15% off your first order + get free shipping on orders $75+!

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This cute belt bag is the most minimalist (and chic) diaper bag. I review the Kibou to talk about all the features.

It has a fold-out changing pad, and in the main compartment I can fit diapers, diaper cream, a pacifier, my phone and a slim wallet. Plus, it has a waterproof zippered wipes pocket on the inner side, which is so handy and cool.

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Road trip with a baby: The essential guide including Tips and Packing list

Post author: Lovicarious
Post published: November 19, 2022
Post category: Traveling with Kids

The thought of traveling with a newborn can sound intimidating, especially when it involves spending long hours inside a small enclosed vehicle. How do I calm my baby during a road trip? What should I pack? From travel tips to packing essentials, this guide covers everything you need to know on how to road trip with a baby from newborn to 24 months.

My family grew up taking 12-hour road trips from Washington DC to Chicago every Christmas. That time spent in the car as a family created some of the best childhood memories for me. I enjoyed singing in the car with my sister, raiding the cooler for snacks, stopping at different travel stations, and sleeping in “quirky” hotels . Road trips were an enjoyable experience for me, and I don’t doubt that there was a lot of planning that happened before we ever hit the road. Now as a parent, I want to continue the same tradition of spending quality time together as a family, traveling, exploring, and seeking out adventure. By the time our son was 10 months old, we had already driven well over 6,000 miles.

We have learned quite a bit when it comes to taking a road trip with a baby. We are here now to answer your questions in the hopes that you will be prepared to plan a successful road trip journey of your own.

*Disclaimer: Some of the links contained in this post are affiliate links, meaning at no cost to you, I will earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase.*

What Should I pack for a road trip with my baby?

Your questions answered:.

How much time should I allocate for a road trip with my baby?

This really depends on a few factors including your child’s age, temperament, and ultimately how many times you need to stop. Babies move through stages quickly and with each stage comes a shift in their sleep/wake cycles, their attention spans, and their needs.

When our son was between 3-5 months old, his threshold was about 3 hours before he would need a break from the car seat. During that 3 hour-period he would nap and play with the soft toys dangling from his car seat. After that, he was bored, hungry, and ready for a diaper change. This cycle dictated our need to stop every 3 hours.

By 12 months, our son was only taking 2 naps a day so we needed to find a way to entertain him in his car seat for longer. In our case, the 3-hour threshold before boredom set in stayed about the same. (We were lucky.) Some 12-month babies might not be able to sit in a car for 3 hours straight, necessitating more frequent stops.

On average I would advise at least doubling the time it normally takes to arrive at your destination. If your baby is sleeping through the night and you are able to drive while they sleep then this would shorten that time frame. If you are driving through the day and are expecting more frequent stops, it might mean tripling your drive time. The key to remember is to let go of expectations, practice patience, and enjoy the ride. You’ll arrive at your destination eventually.

How do I change my baby’s diaper on a road trip?

Our son’s first out-of-home diaper change (excluding the hospital of course) was on a flat slab of rock. We took him hiking at one month old and changed his diaper on the mountain summit. That was the first of many mountain tops that would be graced with his bare little hiney. I tell that story to say that you can change your baby’s diaper pretty much anywhere as long as they have a clean surface to lay on.

Before ever leaving our home, we typically pack the trunk of our vehicle keeping in mind that we may need to perform a diaper change at some point along the journey. If it is not possible to leave one side of the trunk clear, we pack in a way that the items are easily moveable to quickly accommodate a changing mat or blanket. This flat space is usually the best location in a vehicle for changing a baby’s diaper while on a road trip.

Alternatively, a backseat or passenger seat also works. If you happen to be stopping at a restaurant or rest stop, most locations do have changing tables in their restrooms. The quality and cleanliness of public restrooms are not always reliable so I would strongly advise always using a portable changing mat if possible.

How do I prevent my baby from crying in the car?

It’s every new parent’s dream to discover the secret to preventing a baby from crying in the car, on an airplane, or any other enclosed space. If you can prevent your child from crying in the first place, an unlikely yet ideal situation, it will be a much easier car ride for everyone. Believe it or not, there are a few things you can do to help prevent or at least stave off the inevitable cry session for a bit longer.

Drive while the baby is sleeping .

The easiest way to plan a road trip with a baby is to drive at night while your baby is fast asleep. If that is not possible, try to drive during nap times. You can take advantage of wake hours for meals, exploration, and even spontaneous roadside attractions . While this may increase the duration of the car ride, you will be enriching your road trip with various activities and irreplaceable moments of family bonding. Furthermore, working with instead of against your baby’s regular sleep schedule, will result in an easier transition when you arrive at your final destination.

Take timely breaks .

Your baby is staring at the backseat of a car for hours so of course, they will get a little antsy. Take breaks every 2 to 3 hours for your child to eat and stretch those little limbs. Find a playground along your route or simply set a blanket down in a patch of grass.

Sit in the backseat.

Toys are entertaining for a time, but nothing can replace the joy and contentment of seeing a familiar face. Babies are fascinated by faces at this age and derive great excitement from simple activities such as imitating facial expressions and playing peek-a-boo. Even if they are too young to interact in that way, your simple presence can often be enough to make a baby feel safe and secure.

My baby won’t stop crying. What do I do?

If prevention is no longer an option and your baby is already crying in their car seat, what do I do next?

There are a number of reasons why babies cry, but they typically fall under one of three reasons. They are uncomfortable, they want your attention, or they simply do not like the physical restraint of being confined to a car seat.

With this in mind, if your newborn is crying in their car seat the first thing that you should do is check to see if there is an obvious cause. Do they have a wet diaper? Has it been a while since their last meal or break from the car? Is it too hot or cold in their car seat? Is the sun in their eyes? Are the seatbelt straps too tight? Are they sitting on a toy or sock? If none of these questions seem to resolve the problem, then you can try to pacify a crying infant with one of the following methods.

Give the baby a pacifier.

Pacifiers are called that for a reason. They provide temporary relief to babies who enjoy the sucking motion as it reminds them of being in the womb. Some studies show that the act of sucking a pacifier can help to lower the heart rate, blood pressure, and stress levels. We highly recommend using a pacifier clip as they are prone to popping out, dropping behind car seats, and otherwise getting lost.

Use the “baby shusher”.

We swear by this miracle sound machine. The Baby Shusher uses a rhythmic “shhh” to imitate the same cadence and sound of a parent soothing their child. If you have ever read the Happiest Baby on the Block, the “shhh” sound we make actually mimics the environment inside of the womb where babies hear all kinds of wooshing and swooshing sounds. This Baby Shusher worked best for our infant over other white noise sound machines. It is always one of our top travel tips for road-tripping with a baby.

If this didn’t work to prevent your child from crying, it might not help so much to soothe them once they are already crying. However, if you are still in the front seat, then I would certainly recommend moving to the backseat where your baby can see your beautiful comforting face. Try playing some peek-a-boo, playing with their toes, or engaging them in a crinkly toy, book, or song. Sometimes just letting them hold on to your finger is enough to calm them.

Give them snacks.

If your baby is old enough and used to eating solids, then you may consider giving them some soft snacks or a bottle during the drive. Always follow a few precautions when feeding a baby in the car: an adult should be sitting next to the baby to supervise, and avoid hard solids that might lead to choking. Some car seat-safe foods for babies include snack pouches and dissolvable rice-husk teethers. We provide some recommendations in the road trip packing list below.

Babies grow fast. Their needs and preferences seem to change just as fast. Here are some baby road trip essentials to keep your little one up to 18 months happy, comfortable, and entertained. Toddlers will require a different list of road trip essentials that are geared more toward their level of maturity and development. This list of travel toys for toddlers highlights all of the best toys to keep a toddler entertained during travel.

Road Tripping with a Baby: Packing List

Entertainment.

Dangling car seat toys – For newborns and infants, dangling car seats are essential entertainment. They might not have developed their grip strength or coordination yet to be able to grab other toys and rattles. Similar to a crib mobile, safely attached dangling car seat toys can capture a baby’s attention, while also helping them to develop spacial awareness. We recommend Baby Links and the interactive Hug & Tug Caterpillar which is appropriate for both infants and older babies.
Teething toys and rattles . Teethers help to soothe babies’ gums when their teeth begin to come in. Like rattles, teethers provide a safe form of entertainment in the car while helping baby to improve their fine motor skills, group strength, and spatial awareness.
Books – Babies like to chew, rip, and crumple books. With this in mind, it is best to pick up a selection of books that will stand the test against curious babies. Soft crinkly books like Peek-a-Boo Forest by Lamaze and Taggies are durable, washable, and engaging with flaps and tabs. Cardboard books are not indestructible, but they will serve their purpose and last you through many road trips with a baby. Our son was always the most engaged in learning books like First Numbers and First Words by Priddy.
Favorite stuffed animal – Stuffed animals are great travel toys for children at any age. Children can begin forming a bond with their toys at a young age so it is important to bring their “best friend” along for the car ride and journey.
Random items around the car – If all else fails there are many things that you likely have in the car that would keep a baby entertained for example an empty water bottle or a box of tissues. Just make sure that anything you give to your baby is safe: no small detachable parts that can pose a choking or suffocation risk.

Food and Drink

Milk and Bottle . If you are nursing exclusively, that eliminates a large portion of your packing needs! If you are not nursing, make sure to pack formula or milk (babies 12 months and older), along with a bottle or two. If you prefer to pack one bottle only, XYZ make kits for cleaning baby bottles on the go.
Snacks and pouches. A baby’s capacity to chew and digest certain foods evolves over time, so always reference the age recommendations on a food label. Up until 6 months, babies will pretty much be fine with just milk/formula. After you begin to introduce solids, prepacked baby food and snacks become an essential road trip item. Rice husks and yogurt melts are excellent road trip snacks. They dissolve quickly, don’t leave many crumbs, and our son loves them! For a more substantial meal, we find that pouches are more convenient than the more traditional glass jars. If baby is a bit older or if you are pulling over for a roadside picnic, other road trip foods for babies include yogurt, sliced soft fruit, and graham crackers. Our son is partial to breakfast bars, peanut butter Bamba puffs and Pirate’s Booty.
Snack cups . The more proactive you are in keeping the car seat free of crumbs, the easier it will be to clean and when it comes to babies every last bit helps. Using snack cups like the Munchkin Snack Catcher helps your little one to slow down the process of palming all their goldfish in one gulp. It also reduces the number of crumbs spilled into the car seat and the floorboard below.
Bib. If your baby is eating milk and purees exclusively, a cloth bib works just fine. If your baby has moved on to eating more crumbly solids like crackers and fruit slices, I would highly recommend using a silicone bib with a catcher. The Mushie silicone bib is easily washable which is ideal for travel, and the pocket catches most crumbs making clean up a much easier process.
Diapers. Diapers are an obvious item for your baby road trip checklist. Consider overnight diapers if you plan to drive through the night while your baby sleeps. The added material and increased absorbency will help to reduce leaks and keep baby dry.
Wipes. Wipes are essential for diaper changes, but they can also be used to clean faces, little fingers, and sticky surfaces. Pro tip: Wipe dispenser is almost empty? Keep the dispenser and fill it with toilet paper or ribbon. Babies love pulling things out of boxes and containers. This do-it-yourself baby toy will entertain your child for hours.
Diaper rash cream. Did you know that diaper rash cream is used not only to treat, but also to prevent diaper rash? If your baby will be spending long stretches of time in a car seat, it is wise to apply diaper rash cream as a preventative measure against rash and discomfort.
Portable changing pad – Using a portable changing station provides a more comfortable changing for the baby. It also provides an extra layer of safety when doing a diaper change in a public restroom.
Extra changes of clothing. You don’t want to be left unprepared when the inevitable blowout or spit-up happens. We recommend packing at least 2 extra changes of clothing.
Swaddle/ burp cloth. Swaddles are a bit universal and reduce the need for packing additional items. Although you wouldn’t swaddle a baby before placing him in a car seat, they do serve as great burp cloths and blankets. After arriving at your destination, you can then of course use the swaddle as intended…to wrap your baby like an adorable burrito bundle.
Baby Tylenol. There are many baby medications on the market, but really the only medication we have ever needed was baby Tylenol. Teething can bring about bouts of pain and fever. Baby Tylenol is a fever reducer that can help assuage your child’s discomfort. Always contact your pediatrician before administering to your child.

Supplies for momma

Breast pump. Depending on a number of factors (your milk production level, how much baby is drinking, etc) you may need to pump while on the road. While the manual breast pump is tried and true, the Elvie is a newer brand that many swear by. They make a wearable rechargeable breast pump that can be inserted into a nursing bra. It is discreet and portable making it possible to pump almost anywhere including at restaurants, in the office, and during a long car ride. Speaking from experience, make sure you have access to a pump! You do not want to get stuck in a situation where your body is telling you to empty the milk, but your baby isn’t hungry and you do not have a pump around. Women who have to delay pumping or nursing risk painful breast engorgement which can lead to medical problems and a reduction in milk supply.
Nursing Cover . It is likely that you may end up nursing your child in a busy parking lot. While I have nursed my son in a parking lot without a cover, I did receive some unwanted prolonged glances from individuals passing by my window. If this is something that makes you feel uncomfortable, it may be wise to pack a nursing cover just in case. I recommend the Bebe au Lait nursing cover with it’s peek-a-boo hole. It allows me to keep an eye on my son, but also provides him with some nice airflow.
Water. It is important for mothers to stay hydrated when nursing.

Additional items that make for a more comfortable trip

Portable blanket. A soft clean surface is a great item to bring along when traveling with an infant. If you are stopping by a travel plaza, gas station, or rest area there is usually a nice grassy area somewhere nearby. This is a great opportunity to unbuckle your little one, and let them have some fresh air. Lay a soft blanket in the grass and allow your baby some time to roll around, stretch their legs, and enjoy the change of scenery. We recommend the Rumpl blanket that compresses into a convenient bag perfect for traveling and road trips.
Car seat fan. When a baby is in their rear-facing car seat they don’t always have the same pleasure of cool air circulating around their bodies. This combined with warm sunrays peeking through the window can make a car seat pretty toast. It is a good idea to bring along a portable fan that clips onto the car seat to ensure that your child is cool and comfortable.
Car seat liner. If you have a 10-hour drive ahead of you, you do not want to deal with a wet soiled car seat. A waterproof liner provides protection from wet bathing suits, diaper leaks, and other accidents.
Backseat organizer to keep essentials close at hand. As you can see, there are many things to bring on a road trip if you want to ensure a smooth journey. You can be saved from headaches and stress in the long run if you are able to keep toys and baby essentials organized. A backseat organizer is helpful for keeping anything you or your baby might need close at hand.

Now that you have your questions answered and your car packed, the last step is to check out our top list of road trip with baby tips .

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Baby & Toddler

7 Tips to Get Baby to Sleep While on the Go

It can often feel pretty challenging to get baby to sleep in their own crib, so the thought of leaving the familiar confines of home to travel with baby is likely something else entirely—especially when it comes to that first overnight trip. But that doesn’t mean you have to stay close to home for baby’s entire first year. With a little preparation and the right gear on your packing list, traveling with baby doesn’t have to be stressful. Read on for tips and tricks that will help baby sleep soundly when away from home.

1. Take Along Some Comforts of Home

Finding little ways to simulate your nursery will make a big difference when putting baby at ease in an unfamiliar place. Pack whatever you can fit (within reason) to replicate baby’s sleep routine, such as a favorite lovey, white noise machine, swaddle blanket or bedtime story.

2. Plan Ahead for Plane and Car Rides

Facing an epic road trip to Grandma’s? Planning a flight for a family vacation? However you’re traveling, try to schedule it during baby’s regular naptime so they can grab some good rest along the way. To make the car more sleep-friendly, install a sunshade on baby’s window and clip toys and pacifiers (if you use them) to the car seat. That way, you won’t have to pull over if something strays from baby’s grasp.

3. Buy an Extra Plane Seat

Kids under the age of 2 fly free on most airlines, but if you can spring for an extra seat, it will be a better trip for everyone. Not only can baby sleep better in a car seat than on your lap, it’s also safer in the event of turbulence. (Just remember, babies shouldn’t be in a car seat for more than 2 hours during a 24 hour period and car seats are not a replacement for a crib or bassinet.) If you can’t justify the extra cost, book a bulkhead seat that accommodates a bassinet attachment; many international flights offer these cots for babies up to 20 pounds.

4. Use a Travel System

You might be tempted to bring a lightweight umbrella stroller on your trip, and while that’ll take up less room in the trunk of your car, you’re better off bringing your travel system . Depending on where you’re heading, car seats may not be readily available in taxis or at the homes or hotels you’re visiting, so having your own will make things easier. Plus, it’s not as disruptive to snap a sleeping baby’s car seat into a stroller. Most planes will let you check or gate-check car seats and strollers free of charge, so you won’t have to worry about getting it on and off the plane yourself.

5. Stock Up on Overnight Diapers

Babies tend to get fussy when they’re in need of a diaper change, so put yours in an overnight diaper—even during the daytime—if you have a few hours of travel ahead of you. This will be comfier for baby and prevent you from having to change diapers in less-than-ideal spaces or at inconvenient times.

6. Use Feeding to Your Advantage

Feeding baby or giving them a pacifier during takeoff and landing will help soothe and adjust their ears to the change in air pressure. If you breastfeed and you’re not totally comfortable nursing in public or in an unfamiliar place, pack a nursing cover that can double as a blanket.

7. Stick to Your Schedule

Help baby (and yourself, for that matter) adjust to a change of scenery by keeping your child’s daily routine as unchanged as possible. It may be tough when there are people to see and places to go, but mapping out the day’s itinerary more or less the same way you would at home will keep your tiny travel companion happy and well rested.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

Plus, more from The Bump:

Packing Checklist: What to Bring When Traveling with Baby

How to Travel with Baby Like a Pro

13 Essentials for Traveling with Baby

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Travel Packing List for Mom, Baby, and Toddler

Need a travel packing list? I’ve got a whole set for you- including a list for mom (or dad!) one for a baby, and one for a toddler:

Why do babies need so much stuff??? And you know you’ll be sorry if you forget something. Like the time we were hours away from home and couldn’t get my 2 year old to stop crying because I forgot to pack her favorite blanket and she refused to go to sleep without it….. ah, good times, good times.

So what’s the solution? Stay at home all summer? Never leave the house again?

Packing for a vacation with a baby or toddler- free printable checklists

OR you could use my handy, dandy packing lists below to make packing a breeze! (OK, maybe it won’t be a breeze, but it will at least be easier, and you won’t forget anything truly essential.)

My lists are broken down into Mom’s Packing List (that’s for you!) Baby Packing List, and Toddler Packing List. (If you have a baby and a toddler, like me, you’ll need all three lists.)

Take a look at the lists below, or just click here to download the printable versions of the packing checklists. Happy packing, and have fun on your trip!

Baby packing checklist- what to pack for your baby on vacation

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Mom’s Travel Packing List

Outfits- I usually pack about 1 per day or event, plus 1 or 2 extra.
Sweatshirt or jacket
Swimsuit and swim cover
Conditioner
Body wash or soap
Loofah or washcloth
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Dental floss
Shaving cream
Hairbrush or comb
Hair ties or clips
Hair products
Tampons or pads
Face and skin care products
Make up- I keep an empty make up bag handy, and the morning before we leave for a trip, I add items to the bag as I do my make up, so I’m sure I don’t forget anything.
Glasses and contact care

In First Aid Bag

I have a first aid bag that lives, already packed, in my bathroom closet. ( We use the bag that came with this kit , but any little bag will work!) I always toss it into my suitcase when I’m packing to go somewhere. Here’s what I suggest adding to the bag for yourself:

Daily vitamins and medications
Adult Tylenol or Advil
Insect repellent
Phone charger
Water bottle
Adult snacks
Hand sanitizer

Large Items

These are the bigger items that will probably get packed by themselves, rather than in your suitcase.

Camera- I pack this separate in it’s own camera bag – which I LOVE, by the way. So cute, not bulky at all, and fairly inexpensive!
Pillow (if needed)
Bedding (if needed)
Electronics with chargers (laptop, iPad, etc.)
Hair dryer, straightener, or curling iron
Books or magazines
Trash bag for laundry
Beach or bath towels (if needed)

Baby Travel Packing List

Outfits- 2 per day
Jacket or sweatshirt
Pajamas- at least 2 pairs
Swaddle or sleep sack
Swim diapers
Bibs or burp cloths
Diaper cream
Baby toothpaste

In First Aid Bag:

Thermometer
If okayed by your doctor: Tylenol, sunscreen, and insect repellant

In Diaper Bag:

Changing pad
An extra set of clothes
Empty plastic bag
Bottles and formula
Nursing cover
Baby blanket- I use these for EVERYTHING – nursing cover, carseat cover, swaddle, to lay baby on the ground, burp cloth, etc.
Toys or books
Extra pacifiers
Car seat and base
Pack-n-Play – If you don’t have a portable baby bed, I would highly recommend buying a used one, because they can be pricey, and most people have only used theirs a handful of times before their baby is too big for it, so you can find them in like-new condition.
Pack-n-Play sheet (I also use a mattress protector .)
Stroller- If you’re flying, you can actually keep your stroller and car seat with you until right before you board the plane. Ask your airline about “checking these items at the gate.”
Baby carrier
Portable high chair
Baby bath seat
Trash bags for diapers and laundry
Beach or bath towels
Feeding items- W hatever you need in order to feed your baby: bottles, baby food, utensils, etc. We love silicone placemats for going out to eat so your baby isn’t eating off the table!
Bottle brush
Baby monitor- We have a travel bag and extra cords for ours so we just disconnect the camera, and put it all in the bag. We have used this during our travels so many times- like at the beach, when we could lounge beside the pool while our baby napped inside the house.

Toddler Travel Packing List

Outfits- 1 per day
Diapers or Pull-Ups
Pajamas- At least 2 pairs
Toddler toothpaste
Hair ties or bows
Infant/Children’s Tylenol
Insect repellant

In Diaper Bag

Diaper changing pad
Sippy cup or water bottle- We’re big fans of the Miracle 360 Sippy Cups!
Booster seat for meals
Pillow or bedding (if needed)
Portable toddler bed (if needed)
Special bedtime items (stuffed animals, blanket, etc.)
Small backpack- We let Emma pack her own little backpack- the beloved “Monkey Backpack!” with anything she wants to. She usually brings her baby doll and some of her special toys and books.
A camera! (Read why here)

Printable Checklists

Download the Printable Travel Packing Checklists here!

Printable packing list to use while packing for a vacation with a baby

What do you think? Did I get most of the essentials, or is there anything else that you would add to these lists? Let me know in the comments, and happy packing!

Save Travel Packing List for Babies & Toddlers:

Travel packing list- free PDF download. Making packing for your next trip or vacation easier with these travel checklists for mom (or dad!) along with lists specific to baby or toddler.

Reader Interactions

Charlie says

June 27, 2018 at 4:09 am

I love this! We are actually just about to go on a trip with my 4 yr old and 1 yr old and this will definitely come in handy! Thank you! And I am a lister, so the list is awesome! Now, I don’t have to worry about making mine! Will Pin!

June 27, 2018 at 5:45 pm

Awesome! I’m so glad to help. Have a wonderful trip!

November 20, 2022 at 3:47 pm

I lost my own master list for vacation packing and didn’t have the head space to put together a full list. I found yours and it’s been wonderfully helpful. Thank you!

November 22, 2022 at 1:32 pm

I’m glad to hear it! 🙂

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10 Safety Tips for Going on a Road Trip with Your Newborn

Road Trip with a Newborn: 10 Tips to Make Sure It’s Safe

Parenting is constant hard work, and that’s never truer than when you’re learning how to care for your newborn. Most parents try to avoid traveling with their infant, instead opting to keep them safe and sound at home until they’re a bit older. But, that doesn’t need to be the case. Traveling with a newborn baby in tow can be a fun and beautiful experience.

Today, we’re going to share some sage advice on traveling with a newborn baby learned through trial and error and countless trips with the kids. Whether you’re wondering when is it safe to travel with a newborn baby, or you’re just looking for some tips on how to make traveling with your baby easier, you’re in the right place.

Work as a Team

Undertaking a road trip with a 1-month old baby by yourself is a harrowing task, so if at all possible, you’ll want to bring your partner or a family member or friend along for the trip with you. Having a partner with you on your road trip means that you can take turns caring for the baby in the backseat while the other person drives.

The person in the back can keep the baby entertained, and take care of all the legwork that’s necessary to keep the baby happy, like preparing bottles or changing a diaper. Working as a team can help you cut down on stops and avoid the dreaded “total meltdown” situation where nothing seems to comfort your baby.

It’s also a good idea for the person in the back to get some rest whenever the baby knocks out for a nap. That way, they’ll be well-rested when it’s time to switch roles and take over the driving.

Budget Plenty of Time

Parenting a newborn means that there will always be surprises that pop up, costing you time in the process. Plus, basically everything you do with a newborn is more time-consuming than doing it yourself. Be sure to budget some extra time when you’re taking a road trip with a 6-month old baby.

It’s like clockwork, whether it’s a poorly timed poop as you’re getting ready to leave a rest stop, or a particularly cranky morning that you and baby need to work through, there will always be something to jam you up. By budgeting plenty of time for yourself, you’ll be able to handle all those unforeseen surprises without having to stress about being late.

Drive at Night if You Can

Driving overnight isn’t the most comfortable prospect on vacation, but it can pay serious dividends for your road trip if you’re able to make it work. Since the baby will presumably be sleeping at night, this represents a window of peace and quiet that you can use to make some serious headway on your journey.

The less you disrupt the baby’s routine, the better off you’ll be when it comes to driving at night. Go through all of your usual nightly rituals with your baby, and when you would regularly put them down for bed, that’s the time to put them in their car seat and hit the road. With any luck, they’ll stay asleep through the entire night, and you’ll take out a huge chunk of driving.

Don’t Take the Road Less Traveled

When it comes to road trips, so much of the fun of driving cross country is discovering fun new places off the beaten path. But when it comes to a cross country road trip with a newborn,, you’ll want to stick to the highways as much as possible.

With the back roads, gas, food, and rest stops are few and far between, which isn’t conducive to traveling with a child. Stick to the main roads, and you won’t have any issue finding places to stop when you need to.

It’s also helpful to take a look at the map ahead of time to plot out potential stops ahead of time, which is another way to minimize surprises on your trip.

Keep Everything You Need Within Arm’s Reach

No matter how much time you sent packing the perfect suitcase, it won’t do you any good if it’s locked in the trunk or buried beneath tons of other baggage. Make sure you have all the necessities you’ll need at the ready for your road trip with a 4-month old.

You don’t have to have an entire suitcase of baby supplies sitting next to you in the backseat. It’s better to have a small bag or backpack that’s packed with small amounts of your most needed supplies. Here’s a shortlist to help you get started:

A changing pad and a few diapers
Pack of baby wipes
A few favorite toys
A baby thermometer
Infant Tylenol
An extra blanket

You’ll know best what else to add to your emergency bag, but these six items are the perfect ones to start with.

Take Extra Precautions

When you’re traveling with a baby, it’s critical that you’re even more careful than you usually are. When you’re traveling with friends (or at least a car full of adults), unforeseen challenges or hiccups like a flat tire can end up being fun team-building exercises. When you’re traveling with an infant, you’ll want to minimize risks like these as much as possible.

Before you head off on your trip, Have your car checked by your mechanic to ensure everything is in perfect working order. Be sure that you have a spare tire that’s aired up and ready to go, a jack, or at least a can of fix a flat. Also, make sure that your car isn’t overpacked, so your view isn’t obstructed when you check your mirrors.

Make Extra Pit Stops

If things are going right, it’s tempting to keep pushing on for as long as you can, but taking regular breaks will pay off in the long run.

Stopping regularly allows you to give your baby a change of scenery and a quick cuddle session, which should improve their mood. Plus, anyone who has ever taken a road trip with a 3 month-old can tell you, they want to eat all the time.

A quick pit stop allows you to keep your baby fed, dry, and content, so they’re less finicky when you get back on the road.

Attach Sun Blinds to Your Back Windows

We all hate driving with the sun in our eyes, especially newborns. A few sun blinds on the back windows will save you hours of grief, and make for a much less cranky baby.

Not only will sun blinds help keep the sun out of your baby’s eyes, but it will also prevent them from overheating, which is something that’s a serious concern when you’re traveling with a newborn.

Be Prepared to Reach Into Your Bag of Tricks

When you’re road tripping with a newborn, you aren’t just a driver or wingman; you’re also an entertainer. How well you’re able to juggle these roles will have a definite effect on how smoothly your road trip goes.

You can set yourself up for success by making sure you have a few of the baby’s favorite toys nearby to break out whenever they’re getting finicky. You’ll also want to brush up on some favorite sing-a-longs to keep the baby entertained for long enough to get you to your next stopping point. When all else fails, a tablet or cell phone with some baby-friendly content should be able to buy you some time.

Learn Some Baby Massage Techniques

After about an hour in the car, the road begins to take its toll on you. Your back and butt hurt from sitting for so long, your legs hurt from not being able to stretch, and it’s not a very enjoyable experience. Keep in mind that the little person in your car is going through the same thing you are.

Learn a few massage techniques to keep your baby’s legs and feet loose and comfortable, and you’ll be able to keep the baby content so you can keep pressing on.

Know When to Call it a Day

There’s plenty to be said for the grin and bear it approach to a road trip, where you keep pushing no matter how tired or cranky you are. But when you’re with the baby, this is an approach you’ll want to avoid.

There’s no shame in shutting down and taking a break for a little while, or giving up on the day altogether so you can get a room and rest up for the next day. Whether you’re taking a break for a short while or for the rest of the day, it’s a much-needed chance for you and the baby to rest up so you can get back on the road when the time is right.

A road trip with a newborn can be a beautiful experience for parents and baby, provided you take some steps to ensure you’re well prepared for the journey. Whether you’re planning a road trip with a 2-month old, or your baby is a little older, following the advice above can help make the experience more fun for everybody.

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Ayesha Holloman

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Road Trip with Baby: How to Survive Long Car Rides

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Our oldest child logged more miles in the car his first few months of life than I can even begin to count. I’ll thank our family and friends all over the eastern part of the United States for that! A road trip with baby requires a lot flexibility, especially given that the car ride can change so much during each stage of your baby’s life. A road trip with a newborn is MUCH different than a road trip with an 8 month old baby, for example.

With some advanced planning and trial and error, road trips with babies do get easier! Below is a rundown of our best tips and products for surviving long car rides with baby.

Driving a Car in Europe Northern Ireland Roadtrip Itinerary Toddling Traveler

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Road Trip Tips for Long Car Rides with a Baby

We learned a lot about drives with a baby after all the miles we logged in that first year. (And some things were definitely learned the hard way!) Below are a handful of our best tips for road trips with a baby after many long drives with two kids.

1. Accept that a road trip with a baby is going to take you longer

I typically estimate about a 30 minute stop for every 2.5 hours of driving. There have been times, however, that I stopped every 2 hours (or even more.) Given the differences in mobility and sleep, a road trip with a 6 week old baby is going to be very different than a road trip with a 6 month old baby. When my son was in that 6-12 month stage, road trips were a little more difficult and often required more stops to allow him to stretch out.

Bottom line, give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination safely and comfortably!

2. Pack as much of the car as you can the night before your road trip with baby

Whether you’re leaving at 5am or 5pm, try to pack the car ahead of time to minimize stress the day you’re leaving for your trip. Ideally, I try to have everything in the car but the diaper bag and cooler well before our departure time. That usually means packing the car the night before for early departures.

The last thing you want to do is to have to jam a week’s worth of stuff into your car while trying to hold the baby or wrangle older siblings. (Especially since there will be times when just walking out the door is a feat in itself.)

3. Try to sync up long drives with your baby’s sleeping schedule

When my oldest was only a few months old, it worked best for us to leave early in the morning. He was taking several naps and would fall back asleep in the car, making road trips with a 1 month old baby and up to about 4 months pretty easy. As he got a little older and was more mobile, he was the most active early in the morning. That meant we had to adjust our approach and leave a little later to coordinate drives with his nap schedule. (Or just be super effective at keeping him entertained first thing in the morning!) This was also the case for our second child.

For really long drives, splitting the drive up also works well. That doesn’t necessarily mean you need to stay overnight. Just stopping for an hour or two to stretch and get a change of scenery works well too. Especially when babies start to become mobile and need to get those wiggles out.

For those moms or dads to-be, I don’t want to give you a false impression that every single baby sleeps well in a car. We were lucky with our son in that he always slept in the car at some point during the drive, but you might need try out different approaches to get this right.

4. Pack extra snacks and meals for road trips

Once babies are starting to get into the solids phase, you’re likely going to be bringing a lot of their food from home. For snacks that travel well, we love teething wafers or puffs . We also loved snack catching cups as our son got older and started eating snacks more independently. They’re a lifesaver with preventing snacks from getting dumped all over the keep your car by your little ones!

While we like fruit and veggie pouches for easy on-the-go nutrition, I don’t recommend them for car rides. Speaking from experience, they can make a mess unless you have someone in the backseat to help.

Be sure to also have more food and milk/formula on hand than you think you need. You never know when you’ll get stuck in traffic or your drive will take longer than planned.

Long Car Ride with Baby Road Trip Tips Toddling Traveler

5. Bring different forms of entertainment for the car

Babies can easily get bored looking at the same thing for ours on end. (And so can adults, for that matter!) Regardless of their age, proactively keeping your baby entertained in the car definitely helps minimize the fussing.

Screen time is one form of entertainment many parents use in the car with babies or toddlers. We don’t typically use iPads or Kindles at home, so they’ve always been a special treat for long drives or flights. Our favorite device for kids is the Kindle Fire along with a Kindle Fire tablet case for kids . We also have this tablet holder for car that hooks onto the headrest and can be used for a rear or front facing car seat. If you’re planning to use screen time in the car with baby, I recommend using other forms of entertainment first and keep the tablet for playing learning shows like Miss Rachel when they get really restless.

A few of our favorite toys for a road trip with baby are below.

A sensory toy that’s multifaceted like this one . It also has rings, a teether, a mirror, a rattle as well as multiple sounds and textures.
The Wubbanub Pacifier is great, even if your baby doesn’t take a pacifier. It was a lifesaver on our road trip home from Omaha with a newborn when we weren’t able to stop and feed our son right away.
A stuffed animal or lovey is great to give them comfort and something to grasp.
When your baby starts teething, bring several teether options. Both for back up when they drop them and to switch it up with something new. Some of our favorite tethers are Nubby Chewy Rings , the Chicken Wing Appeteether and the Banana Toothbrush Teether .
If another adult is able to be in the backseat, you can bring books to read to them. Check out our page on travel books for children for more ideas.
As your baby gets closer to 1 year old, sticker books are a great toddler road trip activity with adult assistance.

Related Post: 10 Baby and Toddler Toys for Travel Under $10

6. Make sure you can access an open seat in the car

When driving for long periods of time, I’ve found that the car often becomes ground zero for anything you need to do to take care of the baby. For this reason, it definitely helps if you leave the backseat next to your baby open. (This gets a little tougher when you have other kids in the car, but it’s helpful for new parents trying to navigate everything.) Whether you need to go back and check on the baby or quickly change a dirty diaper, that extra space is key!

As a breastfeeding mom, I also felt more comfortable nursing from my car with it parked in the corner of the parking lot versus trying to manage it inside a rest stop. This is totally a matter of personal preference, and I admire anyone who can breastfeed anywhere!

Long Car Ride with a Baby- Toddling Traveler

7. Know where the rest stops are for those frequent stops

If you have a navigation or app that shows where the rest stops are, use it! Knowing how many miles away the rest stops are is super helpful when trying to time out feedings and diaper changes in the car.

Have to stop when there’s no rest stop near you? Many toll roads and major highways have emergency rest stops. I found these to be especially helpful when I was driving by myself. There were quite a few times that my son became hysterical, and I had to stop either comfort him, feed him or change his diaper. (Hence, why the prior tip on leaving an open car seat comes in handy!)

If your child is just starting to become more mobile, try to use rest stops to help them stretch out and move around as well. Sitting in a car that long is hard enough for adults, much less babies who just want to move and don’t understand why they can’t.

8. Try to bring reinforcements when you’re tackling a long car ride with baby

I’ve probably done as many road trips with my son solo as I have with someone else in the car. For obvious reasons, it’s much easier to get through the long drive with a baby when you have someone to help you. You can actually check on the baby without hanging to pull over. And rest stops are easier to tackle since you can split up getting guess, using the restroom and taking care of the baby.

9. Ziplock bags are your friend

I never leave the house without Ziplock bags when traveling with a baby, whether I’m road tripping or not. You can use Ziplock bags for dirty clothes and diapers, snacks, other trash that you don’t want to stink up the car. We usually have some in the diaper bag, and they’re small enough that you can keep a few large Ziplock bags in the glove compartment or other car storage just in case.

10. Stay focused on the road when you have a baby on board

This one may seem obvious, but it’s easy to get distracted when driving with a baby. As a multi-tasker at heart, it’s tough for me not to feel like I’m super woman and can focus on the road while simultaneously singing to my son and picking up that sippy cup I swear he tried to throw at me.

I’m constantly having to remind myself of this and will often stop to pull over in a safe spot if I need to check on something for peace of mind. It’s much better and safer than trying to do it all from the driver’s seat.

Long Drives with a Baby Toddling Traveler

5 Must Have Products for a Car Ride with a Baby

In addition to the above-mentioned items, below are some things we swear by for your road trip with baby packing list. For any moms-to-be out there, I definitely recommend planning ahead and considering these items for your baby registry.

1. Baby Mirror

A baby car mirror was critical for us for both safety and peace of mind for car rides of any length. We relied pretty heavily on these to see our son when he was rear facing. The mirror especially comes in handy if you’re doing a solo road trip with a baby. It makes it much easier to check if they’re sleeping, crying or throwing their toy for the millionth time when you don’t have a co-pilot to help.

We have this backseat car mirror . I love that it’s big enough to see the baby’s entire body, and it’s easy to install and adjust when needed.

2. Car Sunshades

Our son HATES the sun in his eyes, especially in the car. While our newer car came with sunshades, our prior car when we first had our son did not. These white-hot car safety shades are perfect. Not only do they have an indicator that shows if the car is too hot, but they also retract easily. Every car is different, so make sure you measure your car windows to ensure you’re getting adequate coverage for your window size. I’d recommend avoiding the stick-on car shades that fold up, since they easily fall off.

As your little one gets older, baby sunglasses are a great option if they’ll keep them on for the car. You can find the best baby sunglasses here .

3. Small Cooler

A cooler is critical for any road trip, but especially with a baby when you can’t easily get drinks and snacks for them at a rest stop.

We bought this freezable lunch bag cooler after it was recommended by a friend. The bag itself freezes, and it can keep the contents cold without a separate freezer pack It also easily folds up when you’re not using it. It’s the perfect size to keep a couple bottles and snacks cold for that long car ride. And it’s also great for milk on a plane ride with a baby or traveling without baby while breastfeeding .

Looking for a larger cooler for car rides? This soft-sided cooler is large enough for several drinks and food. Plus, it’s foldable and easy to pack away when not using it.

4. Hands-free diaper bag

This probably seems too obvious, but the hands-free part is key when making those pit stops while juggling a baby. I have this diaper bag that I wear like a cross body diaper bag. (Although sadly the champagne color I have is discontinued.) I also have this diaper bag backpack that we use periodically.

In addition to the multiple pockets, a changing pad that comes out separately and velcros shut is also a necessity. You will definitely want something that can easily be washed after multiple uses on those dirty roadside changing tables.

5. Light blanket

Whether in the car or just pushing the stroller, we almost always had a thin muslin blanket on our son’s lap. Not only does it help make sure baby is warm enough in the car, but it also gives them something to grab onto for comfort. We love muslin baby blankets because they serve a number of purposes and are light, breathable and easy to pack.

Target also sells a similar, less expensive set of muslin baby blankets that we’ve used as well.

Do you have any additional tips for long car rides with a baby? Please share in the comments!

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19 thoughts on “Road Trip with Baby: How to Survive Long Car Rides”

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I love you tips.Thanks for putting this together I will pin for later to have it handy then I travel next time.

You’re welcome! I’m so glad to hear it was helpful.

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Such brilliant tips, which take me back to many years ago – am sure these will be useful for so many parents. Also, the photos are adorable!

Thanks so much!

oh dear. we did not get a car until my son was about 15 months old so on the rare times he was in one as a baby, OMG he hated it! We did a road trip from Raleigh to the outer banks when he was 5months old and he screamed the whole time!!!!!! def takes longer, driver has to stay focused. plastic bags, extra clothes, prepare for it all!

That’s quite the drive! It’s definitely tougher when they get more mobile!!

I agree with you that it was easier when the baby was between 0-4 month old. The baby mirror and car sun shades also helped us a lot. Now our baby is 13 years old. 🙂

Time flies! We’re about to start doing this all over again so I’m hoping these baby road trip tips stick for baby #2!

You always have the best insight for traveling with our youngest travelers! Great tips as always…!

Thanks so much Jen!

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Ultimate Packing Checklist for Babies and Toddlers

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*This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using this link.

I don’t know about you but I find packing for my toddler extremely overwhelming, stressful, and downright daunting. I travel with my son 4-5 times per year and the only thing that makes packing palatable is having a list! And I mean a detailed list. When I wing it, I end up packing last minute, I’m stressed and I inevitably forget something. I promise that if you use a detailed packing list the process goes a lot smoother and more quickly.

In this article, I am going to give you a rundown of the items that you’ll find in my suitcase, along with some additional items that you might want to bring. In my experience, there are two different types of packers: the minimalist packer and the pack everything packer. This list can be used for either type of packer. I hope that you find this packing checklist for babies and toddlers helpful in planning your next vacation!

This list is meant to be pretty comprehensive so don’t feel like you need to bring everything that I mention. Just cross off what is not applicable to you and add in missing items in the blanks that I have provided. My predicament is that I don’t want to be caught on a plane or in a car without many of these items. Sure, if you are in a car you might be able to stop and buy what you need. But maybe not. I also prefer to bring as much as I can so that I don’t have to buy stuff along the way. That helps with the budget! My point is to take or leave whatever you do not find relevant to you.

I’ll discuss the different categories and explain why I have included the various items. I’ll also discuss how much of each item I would bring.

Sign-up below to download a pdf version of the packing list!

The Comprehensive Packing Checklist for Traveling with a Baby or a Toddler

Baby Toddler Clothing

Adult clothing.

Diapering/Potty: To Bring or Pack your Diapers?

Toiletries/Bath

A General Note on Packing Food & Beverage Items

Medicine/First Aid

Would Be Nice, But May Not Be Necessary

What is the Best Way to Pack Clothing in a Suitcase?

Should i bring anything particular on a road trip with a baby or a toddler.

What Should I Pack for a Baby or a Toddler for a Beach Vacation?
If I Arrive at the Airport and my Checked Bags are Over the Weight Limit What Should I Do?

What Gear Should I Bring on Vacation For Transporting my Baby or Toddler?

I always bring three modes of transport when flying/driving with the kiddo. I bring a stroller, a car seat, and a baby carrier. I cannot understate the importance of wearing that baby or toddler, especially if you are flying !! I bring a stroller and a car seat because I’ll need them at my destination.

If I am flying I always gate-check the stroller and the car seat (or bring the car seat on board) – as opposed to checking them at check-in. There is a lower risk of your stroller and car seat being damaged if you gate-check them. I also like to have my stroller in the airport because I can put the kid or my bags into the stroller instead of carrying everything.

Transporting the Baby/Toddler • Stroller • Car Seat • Baby Carrier (e.g. Lillebaby/Baby Bjorn) • Bag for carrying stroller and/or car seat (optional) • Cart for Carrying Car Seat (optional)

When you gate-check (or regular check) your car seat or stroller you have the option to insert them into a bag. This can be handy for a few reasons. One, many bags are bright red which makes your items easily identifiable. Second, many bags have backpack straps , so you could actually carry your car seat on your back. Third, some bags come with some sort of padding . The padded bags are unlikely to save your car seat or stroller from being crushed or damaged; however, they do provide a little protection. In any event, you want to inspect your car seat and stroller upon your arrival to check for any damage.

What’s in my Diaper Bag While Flying with a Baby or Toddler?

This section pertains to airplane travel. There are a few things that I take on the plane not because I’ll need them on the plane, but because I cannot afford to lose them. A few examples are important documents, electronics, and prescriptions. I typically bring my laptop on the plane, but I have packed it in my checked bag without a problem. If you are going to pack it in your checked bag, I’d recommend making a backup prior to traveling.

Important Documents/Items • Passports/ID’s • Birth Certificate or Passport for Children Under Two (If flying as a lap infant) • Itineraries • Reservations • Cash & Credit Cards • Insurance Card

Electronics • Computer, Charger, and Accessories • Phone & Charger • Kindle & Charger • Fitbit & Charger • Camera, Charger, and Accessories • Breast Pump & Charger (Optional)

In developing this packing checklist for babies and toddlers I had to address the carry-on/diaper bag. If you are flying, this may be the single most important bag that you bring on vacation. If this is an overnight/long-haul flight, you will obviously need more items than if it’s a shorter 2-4 hour flight.

Here are the basics of what you’ll need on the flight:

Bring diapers, pull-ups and/or underwear on the plane. My son is potty trained but when I diapered I used cloth diapers. If we were going on a short flight I’d cloth diaper on the plane and I’d bring one diaper for every two-three hours of traveling. For travel time, be sure to calculate from the time that you leave your house until the time you believe you will arrive at your FINAL destination (not the airport, but wherever it is that you are going). For long-haul flights, I used disposables on the plane and brought a diaper for every two-three hours of travel time. This is an item that it is OK to over pack. You do not want to run out of diapers!

On the Plane: Diaper Bag/Personal Bag • Diapers, Pull-Ups and/or Underwear • Water Wipes & Disinfecting Wipes & Pacifier Wipes • Hand Sanitizer • Kleenex • Change of Clothes for Baby/Toddler • Sweater for Baby • Bib • Burp Cloth • Changing Pad • Extra Shirt for Parent/Caretaker • Hat for Baby/Toddler • Toys, Books, Games • Muslin Blanket (for nursing or sleeping) • Food/Snacks • Sippy Cup • Formula (for baby) & Accessories • Ziploc baggies • Teething ring or Pacifier (if necessary) • Children’s Ibuprofen or Tylenol • Book/Magazine for Adult

Potty-Trained Toddlers:

My son is now potty trained (30 months). But on a plane, I put him in pull-ups. I bring 4-8 pull-ups in my diaper bag, approximately a pull-up for every two-three hours of travel. Depending on how newly potty trained your toddler is, you will bring more or fewer pull-ups. If your child is in underwear, I’d bring 2-3 extra pairs in case of accidents. This is no place to be a hero. When toddlers have to go, they have to go. If your kid has to go and you are stuck in line boarding, you can’t run to the bathroom. Or if you are on the plane and there is a queue for the toilet, it could be 5-10 minutes before you can get into the bathroom. You do not want your child piddling in the aisle waiting for the bathroom.

Along with diapers, I also bring some sort of wipes; I personally use Water Wipes , but any wipes will do. Wipes are also good for wiping hands, etc. In that same vein, I bring some sort of baking soda/anti-bacterial wipes , for wiping down nasty surfaces. I also bring a small pack of Kleenex. Lastly, I bring an empty plastic grocery bag and/or a wet bag for soiled or wet clothes.

Items for Baby/Toddler:

For the baby, I would pack 2-3 changes of clothes, depending on how young the baby is. In my experience, younger babies tend to have more blowouts and spit-ups than older babies; pack according to your baby’s bodily functions. I also bring a sweater and a muslin blanket. The sweater is self-explanatory but the blanket can be used as a nursing blanket or as a blanket for the bassinette. Planes can get hot and then cold and I have found that muslin breathes very well but is also warm. For overnight flights, I pack pajamas but pajamas are not a must; you could also just dress them in a long sleeved shirt and some sweat pants.

Items for Parent or Caregiver:

I always bring an extra shirt for myself- spit ups happen, body odor happens, etc. However, recently a long-time friend recommended that I bring a full change of clothes on long-haul flights. Her 8-month-old daughter vomited all over her on their way back from Poland and her entire outfit was soiled. This is also not a bad piece of advice in case your checked bag gets lost.

I also bring a book, magazine, etc. whatever you like ‘to do’ on the plane!

You definitely want to bring food/snacks. Ask your airline if they have a baby meal and if they say ‘no’ ask someone else just to be sure. You want to pack enough food for the duration of your flight. Some things that I bring are pouches, chopped fruit, goldfish, hummus and pretzels, (soy) yogurt, Lara Bars (those fruit and greens ones) or the Kind pressed bars , applesauce, PB&J, cheese slices, Pediasure- anything that your child will eat and that will hold for a few hours.

The Transportation Security Administration

Check out the Transportation Security Administration’s website for what food and drink you can bring on a plane.

The general rule is that each passenger can bring a quart sized bag of ‘liquids’ on the plane, no one of which may exceed 3.4 ounces.

The most important thing to know here is that this rule does not apply to liquids for an infant or toddler; however, you must bring these items through security “in reasonable quantities” so don’t go overboard.

According to the TSA website, “an infant is defined as a child who must be physically carried by an adult throughout the screening process. A toddler is defined as a child who receives assistance in walking by an adult throughout the screening process.”

The website specifically mentions formula, breast milk and juice as being exempt from the ounce limitations, however, I have also brought pouches and other ‘liquids’ that were larger than 3.4 ounces and not had a problem. You can also bring your sippy-cup with liquid through Security. They will test these items for explosives.

You should inform the TSA officer of what items you have and have them all in one bag. You can also tell the TSA officer if you do not want your formula, breast milk or juice x-rayed or opened.

Entertainment:

I always bring my Kindle and a few toys on the plane. Even if the flight has in-flight-entertainment I bring the Kindle. I also bring a new toy, book or sticker pack—whatever— just something new and novel. The $1 bin at Target is great for this! If it’s an overnight flight I bring a stuffed animal or something from baby’s crib.

Additionally, many items on a plane can be used for play; a few ideas are magazines, the throw-up bag, and plastic cups—you just have to get creative!

What Should I Pack for When I Arrive at my Destination?

What you pack for your destination will be largely dependent upon your destination’s climate, type of accommodation, duration of the trip, mode of transportation, access to a grocery store or corner store and whether or not you will have access to a washer and dryer. (Side Note: many places around the world have washers but no dryers). So check these things out prior to departure and pack accordingly.

If you are flying know your bag weight allowance and also check your baby’s bag allowance. Even if your child is flying as a lap-infant, chances are they have a bag allowance.

My advice is to pack early and only pack the bare necessities; buy the rest when you get there. If you want to save money by bringing items with you so that you don’t have to buy them when you arrive then get very specific about the quantities that you’ll need and pack accordingly.

Another way to cut down on overpacking is to do laundry at your destination. So if you are traveling for 10 days then pack for 5 days and do laundry once, or if you are you traveling for 15 days then do laundry twice (or pack for 8 days and do laundry once).

Baby/toddler clothing is pretty easy-don’t over think it. For my two-year-old, I pack 2 outfits for every day of travel. When he was younger I packed 3 outfits for every day of travel. But if you find that you rarely have to change your child’s clothes then pack less. If your baby has blow-out after blow-out then pack more. You could also do something like 2-3 outfits per day- so for seven days of traveling, you’d pack 18 outfits (unless you were going to do laundry while there).

Baby/Toddler Clothing • Underwear (potty-trained toddler) • Socks • Onsies (baby) • Shirts • Pants/Shorts • Sweater/Sweatshirt/Jumper • Pajamas • Swimsuit & Rash Guard • Swim Diaper (washable or disposable) • Sunhat • Shoes • Winter/Outerwear (coat, gloves, hat, scarf, etc…)

This will be dependent upon the criteria listed above. To reduce the number of clothes that you pack try to pack/wear layers. That way you will have to do less laundry and the clothes you bring are likely to be more versatile. Another tip is to try and pack outfits that you can dress up or down so that you don’t have to pack two outfits per day (for example, if you like to go out at night).

Adult Clothes/Items • Underwear • Socks • Bras/Nursing Tanks • Shirts • Slacks/Pants/Shorts • Dresses/Skirts • Pajamas • Cardigan/Sweatshirt • Jacket/Outerwear • Swimsuit & Cover • Shoes (walking, sandals, dressier, flops) • Sunglasses • Hat • Cold Weather Items (gloves, scarf, etc.)

Diapering/Potty: To bring or pack your diapers?

Traveling while diapering a baby or toddler.

I used to pack my diapers because I cloth diapered, but even if you use ‘sposies you may need to pack your diapers depending on the type of destination. Towards the end of when my son was in diapers, I would pack 6 diapers per day. One for nap, one for nighttime and other than that I would change him four times per day. The smaller the baby the more times you’ll likely be changing it during the day. For those who are cloth diapering, I would also bring a small and medium-sized wet-bag (one for the diaper bag and one for the accommodation).

Traveling with a Potty Trained Toddler

If your kid is potty training or newly trained traveling can be dicey. I personally want to put my kid in pull-ups as infrequently as possible, but I also don’t want him pee’ing everywhere while traveling. Know your child’s limitations and how long s/he can hold it. Also, be cognizant that while traveling you may have a lot less control over where/when/how you can use the bathroom.

On the topic of potty training, initially, my son was freaked out by public potties. He still uses a toddler potty at home but now he’ll sit on the adult potty while we are out. I purchased a travel potty seat to bridge the gap between the toddler potty and the adult potty.

If you are taking a road trip you can bring a potty in the car with you. This is a pro-tip from my dear friend Kaleina-she put me onto the potty-in-the-car tip! I keep this potty in my car at all times for when kiddo has to go! You can also buy collapsible ones if you’d like to pack one in your suitcase and bring it with you.

If you are traveling outside of the United States run a quick Google search to familiarize yourself with your destination’s toilet system. Many countries around the world do it differently than the United States. You do not want to be caught off guard with a little one who is iffy on our way of doing things let alone some hole in the ground.

Here I have included what I pack, generally. You will probably add a number of personal items to this section of the list; I have included extra lines for that purpose. I’m a minimalist when it comes to toiletries. Toiletries are heavy and when weight limits are an issue they are typically the first items to go for me. If you are staying in a hotel (or even some home shares) then the venue should provide you with shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and soap (at a minimum).

Eating/Feeding

My son is 30 months old and I still bring a bib and burp cloth for each day of travel. He’s messy when he eats so a bib cuts down on the number of wardrobe changes and burp cloths are good for wiping up messes. I usually pack two sippy cups- one to be in use and one that will be getting washed. I also pack a toddler fork and spoon. Spoons are generally not an issue, toddlers can work with the typical adult spoon but adult sized forks can be scary.

When we arrive at our destination we usually do a grocery shop. Depending on your type of accommodation that will dictate what food items you can buy (quantity and perishable vs. non-perishable). I pack Ziploc baggies and plastic grocery bags to parse out snacks and lunch on a daily basis. The plastic grocery bags are also good for wet or soiled clothing.

I also bring a snack container for my toddler (in the carry-on) and empty water bottles so that we can fill up the bottles and not have to pay for bottled water upon arrival!

If you are packing for a baby then what you’ll bring will depend on whether you are breastfeeding, formula feeding and/or whether you’ll be pumping on vacation. Bring any equipment that you’ll need from home so that you are not scrambling upon arrival.

Another note, if you are packing your breast pump and traveling overseas then bring a voltage converter. I made this mistake in Ireland and blew my pump motor and had to get a hand pump (eye roll) because I wasn’t about to drop €200 on a new pump.

A General Note on packing food/beverage items

If you are traveling internationally, there are places throughout the world that heavily restrict what food products you can bring into their country. In my experience, many of these places are island nations. So although you can bring these items on the plane you cannot bring them into the country. One example is New Zealand. New Zealand is very remote and they do not allow certain fruits, vegetables, or seeds into the country. I almost got into real trouble bringing an undeclared orange into New Zealand. Check with the Customs section of your destination to see if there are any country-specific restrictions on food or other items.

For me, this is one of the most important categories. Prior to booking an accommodation, I think about where my son is going to sleep. If you are staying in a hotel then I’d call in advance and reserve a crib or pack n play so that they do not run out (I’ve had this happen to me and they had to get a PnP from another hotel). When I contact the hotel I also ask whether we are getting a crib or PnP and I bring the appropriate sheet. In my experience, it’s a crapshoot as to whether they’ll provide a sheet for the baby bed.

If you are staying in a home share (AirBnB or HomeAway) ask the host if they have a crib or PnP prior to booking. Many hosts do not have items for children (bed or highchair) and they will not acquire one for you.

For nighttime, I bring most of the items from my son’s crib so as to re-create his home bed as much as possible. This may be unnecessary, but it’s just a habit that I have developed. I pack his toddler pillow , his baby blanket, sound machine , stuffed animal and the baby monitor and camera.

This is another area where I try not to go overboard. Typically, I bring basic medicines (Ibuprofen or Tylenol), children’s sunscreen, children’s bug spray , and a basic first-aid kit. I bring the sunscreen and bug spray because I like to use natural products and they’re not always available at the destination. You can put together a basic 1 st aid kit with a thermometer, some alcohol swabs, gauze pads, Band-Aids and maybe some Neosporin. I usually only bring this if we are going camping or will be somewhere remote. Lastly, I would also recommend packing your prescription medications in your carry-on in case your checked bag is lost/delayed.

Would Be Nice, but May Not be Necessary

I’ve listed off a few items that may be nice to have but also may not be necessary. Where you are going, for how long and the mode of transport will dictate what extras you can or will want to bring. For instance, if you are embarking on a road trip you’ll be able to bring a lot more stuff than on a domestic flight where the luggage weight restriction is 40lbs. If you are doing a week-long beach vacation then you might want to bring additional books, toys, puzzles and games for your child.

The few ‘extras’ that I travel with are a mini cooler (it’s really just an insulated Igloo lunch bag) and occasionally we travel with a portable highchair . The mini cooler that we have is pretty small and collapses down pretty flat; I believe it was $6 bucks. The portable high chair that we have is really more of a harness that you strap over the back of a chair. It’s very useful for meal times if your child is likely to fall out of a chair, but it’s also good for containment purposes!

Additional Questions That I’ve Been Asked That Deserve Honorable Mentions:

I roll my clothes. But another good way to pack is to use packing cubes !!

A road trip is very similar to airplane travel except that you have more flexibility in what you can bring. The caveat is that just because you can bring more does not mean that you should!

For a road trip, I’d definitely bring the toddler potty, a few more activities for the children to do in the car and I’d buy the majority of our food at home and bring it with us. You can control what you buy and how much you spend so much more when you are familiar with the grocery store. If you are not into packing out a bunch of food then familiarize yourself with where the grocery stores are at your destination. We’ve been to places where the largest ‘grocery store’ is really a corner store and the selection can be limited. My son eats like 5 things so I need to know that I can either bring or buy these items when I get to where I am going.

What Should I Pack for a Baby or Toddler for a B each vacation?

You will still pack many of the items mentioned above and in the packing list. The biggest concern for a beach vacation is the sun.

In the sun you have three lines of defense. The first line of defense is going to be your child’s clothing. I like to get a swimsuit and/or a rash guard where the fabric/weave provides some sort of SPF. You also want to have a wide-brimmed hat (again preferably with SPF).

The second line of defense is a good sunscreen; I prefer a natural sunscreen.

And then third, I like to have a sun canopy; you can nap your child in the canopy or get some much-needed respite from the sun. We bought one from Aldi on the cheap, but you can also find a good one on Amazon.

Lastly, I like to have some good water shoes for my son. These provide a little protection from the sun, but also provide a little protection from rocks or other sharp objects on the beach.

If I Arrive at the Airport and my Checked Bags are Over the Weight Limit What Should I Do?

The best thing to do is to buy a luggage hand scale (they’re like $10 bucks) and weigh your bags before you even leave your house.
If you have multiple checked bags the simplest thing is to re-distribute if one bag is over but one bag is not.
Next option is to load up your personal or carry-on bag with the overage as these bags are not weighed.
Pro Tip: I cannot take credit for this tip. I got this tip from my good friend Mrs. Gagos. If you are flying and you check your car seat, throw it in a car seat bag. There is no weight limit on the car seat bag which means that you can throw miscellaneous items into the bag and it will not count against your baggage weight limit.

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My wife and I are trying to take a long vacation to our parent’s houses this holiday season and we need to pack for our baby too. We have never traveled with our son before so this is a pretty big deal and we don’t want to mess it up. I like your tips to pack everything he might need for a few hours while we wait for travel times and other delays.

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EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO PLAN YOUR ROAD TRIP

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Tips for a Road Trip With a Baby: How to Survive the Long Drive

tips for a Road Trip With a Baby Car Seat

Setting off on a road trip with your little one? I know – it sounds like a mission. Trying to figure out nap times, packing enough but not too many toys, dealing with sudden mood swings (and that’s just from the parents!) – it’s enough to give anyone a slight headache. “Will my baby be okay? How on earth am I going to keep them calm? Did I pack enough diapers?” These questions whirling around in your head are perfectly normal, and I’m here to help with my tips for a road trip with a baby.

Over the years, I’ve taken my kids on so many road trips, I’ve lost count. Short weekend jaunts, epic cross-country adventures, you name it. And you know what? Every single one was a learning curve. Sometimes, it felt more like a rollercoaster than a curve, but that’s parenting for you. I’ve had my share of forgotten essentials and messy surprises, but each hiccup has helped me perfect my road trip routine.

Don’t worry – by the end of this blog post, you’ll be a lot more confident about hitting the road with your little partner in crime. You’ll know what to expect, what to pack, and how to handle those inevitable bumps along the way. I’ve done all the hard yards, the late-night packing, and the frantic roadside diaper changes. Now, you get to benefit from my road-tested wisdom and plan a trip that’s all about the fun stuff.

Table of Contents

Road Tripping With an Infant FAQs

I know how different it is to take your kids with you on a long drive compared to a fun and spontaneous road trip as a couple . Especially if you’re taking a baby with you. And if it’s your first trip as a family, you’d be forgiven for feeling overwhelmed and nervous .

Jumping in the car to explore the country can be such a fantastic memory-making experience. Plus, showing your kids (even the teeny tiny ones) magical places is part of what all parents dream of doing.

So to calm your worries and help you plan a fabulous vacation, I’ve gathered some of the most frequently asked questions and answered them as best I could.

Have another question? Or a tip for new parents about to hit the road? Let us all know in the comments, and keep the support going!

What to Expect When Traveling With a Baby

The question most parents would love to be able to answer with a crystal ball; I promise, even if you have a few hiccups on the road, at the end of the day, the memories will be worth it.

A road trip with a baby under 12 months isn’t the nightmare that some may make it seem, as long as you prep properly . Your baby has their usual routine, space, and expectations in their daily life—all of which go away once you put them in the car for an extended period of time.

You definitely should expect them to be a little fussy , possibly get bored, and very likely make a bit of a mess . With a few important steps, you can ensure the ride is pleasant for the baby and parents. You want to make fun family memories , which means enjoying the journey just as much as the destination .

I’ve been using Roadtrippers for years to help me plan out my trips and find fun stops along the way. Use my code “BTR5QTP” for $5 off when you sign up!

What is The Best Age to Road Trip With a Baby?

This depends on your baby, of course. Generally, it’s best to start planning your family road trip only once your baby is about three months old. Between three and six months , babies are in their developmental stage and will begin to gain more head and neck control.

This means they can sit in a car seat and be comfortable for slightly extended periods. They’re also typically on better sleeping schedules at this age, allowing you to plan accordingly.

You can entertain your baby between three and six months with bright, colorful, and noisy toys. They’re interested in the world around them but not yet crawling or walking , so they won’t be too antsy to get out of their seat for the whole ride.

Also taking Fido? Here are some tips for a road trip with a dog .

How Often Do You Have to Stop With a Baby on a Road Trip?

When you’re planning a road trip with a baby, your stops will need to be planned around their routine . You’ll likely need to stop for feeding, diaper changes, and as they get fussy . You may find that a stop is needed as they wake up from a nap or before they fall asleep.

On average, I would say plan for a stop every two to four hours . Try not to go longer than this, for the whole family’s sake. Although, if you’re driving overnight and your baby sleeps through, you may be able to extend this a bit.

The shorter driving times when you’re traveling with a baby may just give you the perfect excuse to stay over in more small towns. Driving four hours and then retiring for the night at a quaint hotel or BnB only adds to the entire road-tripping experience is one of my best tips for a road trip with a baby.

How Do You Occupy a Baby in a Car?

Unlike older kids, babies are not going to be interested in games of I Spy or a traveling trivia quiz . So how do you keep them busy for the ±four hour stretches of driving?

One way is to play music in the car — not the latest pop songs, but nursery rhymes and calming tunes. Sing along and make it a fun time for the baby. Give them a rattle to play with as well, as this will help stimulate them. This is ideal when on a road trip with a baby and toddler, as it can entertain both of them at the same time (I used this trick many times on drives).

You can also set up a sort of mobile in the car, with animals and colorful toys for them to look at and grab. If their heads can’t reach the windows, give them a plastic handheld mirror or position a mirror to help them see the fun sights outside.

If all else fails, chatting with your baby is normally always a winner. Play peek-a-boo , describe your journey, and tell them where you’re going. Even if they don’t seem to understand it all, your attention and the sound of your voice are often enough to keep them engaged.

Make sure to reserve your rental car ahead of time! I love using Discover Cars for my trips.

Can You Give a Baby a Bottle While Driving?

The short answer is no.

It might be perfectly fine to have your older kids snacking while driving, but the risks are too high for an infant. You shouldn’t have a baby drinking from a bottle without your attention being fully focused on both the baby and the bottle .

Even if you are breastfeeding, it’s not safe to do so while the car is moving . So it’s best to plan your stops according to the baby’s feeding schedule .

How Do You Calm a Crying Baby on a Road Trip?

There’s always a reason why your baby is crying. First, check that they’re not uncomfortably hot, cold, or perhaps have a dirty diaper . It’s also good to check that they’re not hungry .

If their basic needs are met, and they are still crying, they may just not be enjoying the drive as much. Try playing soothing music, talking to them, or giving them a toy to distract them . If none of that works, then it may be best for everyone to stop the car at the next safe spot, get out, and cuddle the baby until they are calm again .

Are Car Seats Uncomfortable for Babies?

As long as your car seat is properly installed and has all of the right cushioning, it should be comfortable enough for your baby to sit in during a drive. Sitting in one for too long for a more extended, cross-country drive with a baby can become uncomfortable .

Staying in one position for extended periods of time will agitate anyone, and babies are no different. There are a few ways you can ease this discomfort until you stop, though:

Keep the car’s temperature pleasant.
Give the baby a little extra cushioning where you can.
Distract them with toys and excitement.

How Long Should a Baby Be in a Car Seat on a Trip?

Even though babies can’t walk around yet, they still need to stretch during road trips . If you’re doing longer newborn travel by car, you should aim to take them out of the car seat every two hours or so (a very important tip for a road trip with a baby).

If your perfectly planned road trip falls within the three- to six-month sweet spot, then two to four hours is fine . Be sure that when you’re stopping, you’re taking the baby out of their car seat and letting their bodies stretch in different positions for a bit.

What Do I Do If My Baby Hates the Car Seat?

So, your baby cannot stand when you put them in a car seat — are your dreams of a family road trip over? Not necessarily.

First, I would check with a doctor if anything makes the baby hate sitting in the car seat. If there are no medical concerns, then it may just be personal preference. You can slowly introduce long road trips with a baby and make the experience more pleasant. Both my kids hated drives at first, but they got used to it the more I traveled with them.

Don’t begin right off the bat with a 15-hour trip from LA to Lake Tahoe ; begin with an hour-long drive and gradually increase the time and distance . Doing this will allow you to test out a few soothing options and hopefully find one that works. Driving while the baby sleeps is also an option.

What Should I Pack for a Baby on a Road Trip?

You can read my full family road trip packing list for a more detailed list , but here are a few essential items to include that are important road trip with baby tips:

Extra diapers — Pack a little more than you think you’ll need. It’s better to be overprepared with a little one than scramble to find a grocery store while on the road.
Wipes and rash cream — These should be with your diapers, but again, pack a little more than you think you need in case of emergencies.
Extra sets of clothing — This is standard when going anywhere with kids and babies. Make sure you have extra clothes for messes as well as enough clothing for all kinds of weather.
Their favorite blanket — Keep babies comfy and soothed with whatever blankie they would use at home. This will help them sleep better in the car and may keep the tears away on the drive.
A few fun toys — There isn’t much space in the car, so you want to make sure that the toys you bring along will entertain the baby for long periods. Choose colorful toys, squishy ones, and even ones that make a bit of noise — just remember, you don’t want to have a distracted driver.
Bibs and utensils — Quick meals on the side of the road or at a gas station may be necessary. Pack in any mealtime essentials so you’re not left in the lurch if you need to make an emergency dinner stop.
Sippy cups and bottles — Ensure you have enough of these with you so that even if you can’t wash them out for a few hours, there’s still a clean one to use until you reach your hotel.
First aid kit — Always keep a car first aid kit on you. Include things like pain syrup for little ones, bandaids, and any medication your baby usually takes. Also, bring sanitizer, mosquito repellant, and a thermometer.
Baby car rier — Pit stops and impromptu hikes will be much easier and more enjoyable if you can comfortably carry the baby around.
Milk and snacks — While you can find food along your route, you definitely want to pack some easy-to-eat snacks and enough milk to avoid a hangry baby.
Bin bags — You’re going to want to keep the car clutter-free and as clean as possible. This will eliminate frustration, help you quickly find what you need, and make the drive more enjoyable. Keep plastic bags to throw trash in and discard them as soon as possible once you’ve stopped.

What Food to Carry for Babies While Traveling?

We’ve mentioned packing in food and snacks, but what else can you take that won’t make too much mess or require any prepping? Some great options to keep in the car for emergency snacking include:

Extra milk and/or water – I always warn parents against packing juices for road trips because they’re sticky and can get everywhere if spilled. Pack milk for the ride if your baby is too young for water.
Sipping yogurt – Driving may take away the baby’s appetite. Sipping yogurt is easy to eat in the car, will fill them up a bit, and often tastes good enough to entice them to eat.
Finger foo ds – Beef jerky, cheese puffs, finger sandwiches. These are all ideal for packing into a lunchbox in the car and handing over if your little one starts to complain about tummy grumbles.
Pre-packaged & single-serve baby food pouches – What you don’t want to do is try and handle large amounts of anything to dish anything out in the car. It might be a little more work, but getting pre-packaged snacks before you set off makes eating and sharing easier on the drive.
Pre-cut fruit – Cut up apple slices, pears, or oranges, as these will be a fun, sweet (but healthy) snack to keep the little mouths busy for a while.

Read more in my post with 101 road trip snacks for kids .

How Do You Pack Baby Milk for Travel?

If the baby is still exclusively on milk or only just starting on solids, you’ll want to bring quite a bit of this with you on your road trip with an infant. Keeping it fresh is important; no one wants to drive for hours with a car smelling like spoiled milk.

If you’re pumping breastmilk to take with you, keep it frozen before you leave . Then when you pack the car, put the milk into a well-insulated cooler box to stay cool and frozen during the drive. If you’re packing formula , pre-pack servings in either bottles or secure containers/bags is an easy way to do it. Then have a flask or bottled water to mix it up.

Sterilize your bottles before you pack them and again when you stop at your nightly accommodation.

My Top Tips for Long-Distance Driving With a Baby

If this is your very first road trip with a baby, just remember that it can only get easier from here. I’ve found that getting the kids used to traveling and being on the road from an early age means it becomes a splendid experience as they get older.

Besides keeping the car organized (and booking any accommodations you’re going to need well in advance), here are some other things I’ve found helpful when taking a 0- to 12-month-old on a road trip.

Check the Car Seat Before You Go

Most importantly, ensure that your car seat is safe , follows regulati ons , and is properly installed.

A car window safety shade is another must-add for a baby’s comfort and safety. Having the sun pelting down on their faces is a sure way to end up with a miserable baby.

Plan Your Route Carefully

Know where you’re going (as well as possible detours in case of roadworks, etc.) and how long you have between each possible stop. Know where you can stop to walk, where you can get gas, and where there are shops to top up on essentials .

This will give you a bit more control over how long to keep baby busy, when nap time should be, and where you can get out and stretch your legs if needed. You can also plan any activities along the way.

Make a Note of Doctors and Hospitals Along Your Route

While planning your trip, keep a log of hospitals, emergency doctors, and medical care units in each town and city you’ll be passing through . Hopefully, you won’t need to use this list when going on a long drive with a baby, but if you have a feverish kid or an unfortunate accident, it’s better to know where to go.

And on that note, be sure to keep important medical records on you while driving . From vaccination cards to allergies, bring anything that may be important in the event of an emergency.

Keep Essential Travel Items Packed in The Front of The Car

You don’t want to take up too much leg room, but you also don’t want to have to stop the car just to reach a pacifier. Before you pack the car, separate items for the drive from things you’ll only need when you stop or reach your destination .

On the other hand, don’t put items that you won’t need while driving in the front of the car. Keep extra clothes, bulky toys, and similar non-essentials in the boot instead.

Stick to Routine as Much as Possible

This may seem harder once you’re actually on the road, but if you can keep to regular nap times and feeding times , it will help your baby stay regulated and feel secure. Similarly, taking some of their personal items with you to put into hotel rooms can help them feel at home.

Get your free road trip packing list here!

Have Someone in the Back Seat

If you can, have one adult in the back seat with the baby if there’s a need for snacks or a quick drink. If you’re stopping often enough for food and drink, having an adult sitting at the back might still be helpful to talk to and entertain the baby .

Of course, if older siblings take up space in the back seat, try to get them to play nicely with and speak to the baby.

Look After Yourself Too

Just as it’s important to remember everything needed for the baby, it’s equally important for parents to stay happy and comfortable on long drives . Not only is it good for the parent driving, but it’ll also help keep the car’s atmosphere pleasant and calm .

Stop when you are feeling uncomfortable, too. Pack in a few of your own favorite snacks. If the baby is fast asleep, take the time to play some of the music you used to play on long drives. You can’t take adequate care of your baby unless you also care for yourself.

Again, these tips for a road trip with a baby are from my real-life experiences, so I hope you feel more confident to plan that drive you’ve been putting off!

Marissa Pedersen

Marissa is a passionate road trip enthusiast who has traveled extensively throughout the United States and Canada via car and continues to go on new trips every year to explore more of the country. Her love of road tripping has given her a unique perspective on the best routes, hidden gems, and must-see attractions along the way.

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Tips for Driving Overnight With a Baby or Toddler

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Driving overnight with a baby may sound daunting, (or traveling with a baby at all) but our firstborn was 6 months old when we made our first 12-hour road trip.

Since he typically slept about 12-hours at night and slept really well in his infant car seat, it made sense for us to drive overnight.

It was a risk, but it was wildly successful. We arrived at our beach rental (5 minutes from my parent’s house) and my parents were readily available and willing to scoop up their grandson so we could nap.

Since then, we have made many, many road trips.

We’ve experimented with both driving overnight and during the day. Some trips have been wildly successful; others have not. We also added twins to our family, so we have experience with multiple children.

A family road trip can be tricky and it can make or break your vacation, just being real.

When driving with kids, especially babies and toddlers, is it better to drive overnight or during the day? It all depends on several things, so I’ll break it down for you, along with tips for a successful road trip with toddlers.

Driving overnight with a toddler is drastically different than driving overnight with a baby.

* Post contains affiliate links.

Benefits of Driving Overnight With a Baby

Here are the primary perks of traveling overnight with a baby. Every child is a little different, but these are generally the benefits in our experience!

Sleep Schedules Aren’t Disrupted

When driving overnight with a baby or a toddler, they won’t have the issue of sleeping all day in the car and then being up all night long ready to party.

It’s Quiet

This is my favorite part of driving overnight. My kids don’t fuss about being bored because they are SLEEPING.

It’s Faster

Not only do we hit less traffic, but fewer stops are required. Since we typically don’t eat meals in the middle of the night, there is no need to stop and eat.

Driving overnight sounds great, doesn’t it? It doesn’t always work though. Here are some things to consider.

Want to fly instead of drive? Read –> Tips for Flying With Toddlers

Driving Overnight With a Baby or Toddler Works If:

Someone can watch your children when you arrive.

If the answer to this is no, then you shouldn’t even consider it, unless you can enjoy your vacation on zero sleep.

My husband and I take turns napping in the car and then take a 4-5 hour nap around 6:00 AM when we arrive.

We then are refreshed enough to enjoy the afternoon, go to bed early, and we are good to go! This has worked for us because when we travel we are visiting family.

Your Kids Will Sleep in the Car

This is a tricky one because sometimes you just don’t know if your children will sleep in the car or not.

Our most recent trip, our twins were 2 and Theo was 4. They will usually fall asleep in the car if they’re absolutely exhausted, so we thought it wouldn’t be a problem.

They would eventually fall asleep. Well, we have a DVD player in our van that we had never used.

Josie and Margo were 2 (and 4 months) and had been rear-facing in their car seats. We thought it would be a good idea to turn them around so they could watch movies before they fell asleep.

That. Was. A. Terrible. Idea.

Forward-facing car seats aren’t as reclined as rear-facing ones, plus it was a completely new thing to them. They did NOT want to fall asleep.

Around midnight (MIDNIGHT!!!) they were both screaming so loud, I thought I was going to go insane.

Theo was crying because they were being so loud, and we pulled over and turned their stinking car seats back around. After that, they fell asleep fairly quickly.

Age and Personality of Children

I really think that personality and age have a factor in your kids sleeping in the car.

We made the trip when Theo was 2.5 and the twins were 6 months old, and Theo slept like a champ.

When we did it when the girls were 2.5, it was our most disastrous trip ever.

They are much less easy-going than Theo is and did their best to boycott sleep.

They traveled just fine for our big move when they were 20 months old, so I think driving through the night with a toddler is a mix of personality and age.

Tips for Driving Overnight With Children

Wear your kids out that day! Have them skip nap time and veg in front of the T.V. if they’re too cranky. On our last trip, I would have done that except that my husband had to work until the afternoon and we needed nap time to pack up our van.
Have an early dinner and then hit the road.
Stop to use the bathroom and change diapers/into pajamas right around bedtime. We pack pajamas in our diaper bag so they’re all ready to go.
Turn on a travel sound machine (a white noise app on your phone will also work, but then you can’t use your phone.) You want to keep the white noise going the entire night. It will cover up the difference in lack of road noise when you stop and any talking in the front seat.
Make sure to turn the interior lights of your vehicle off. They will turn on when you open your door at gas station stops and wake your children up!
Take breaks between you and your driving partner and if you feel like you can sleep, then SLEEP. My husband and I always get tired and want to sleep at the exact same time.

traveling overnight with kids driving overnight with a baby or toddler

Tips for Driving During the Day With Children

My kids honestly aren’t entertained by any sort of in-car activity.

Coloring books are OK but don’t keep them entertained for too long. They drop their crayons and then whine for me to get them and mama just cannot handle it.

We basically just feed them and let them watch movies. I do try to hold them off with movies as long as possible. Usually, I will see if they take a nap and play movies after. There’s a little bit of whining that way, but then it’s quiet while they sleep!

Give them all the snacks
Movies or tablets
Bring coloring books (these are great for toddlers and younger children ( these are great for toddlers and younger children ) and books
Bring a travel potty if your toddlers are potty training or recently potty trained
Have them wear shoes that are easy to get on and off so they can take them off in the car
New toys: If your children like to play with little character figures, it’s a good time to bust out a new toy
Separate them: This goes for day OR night time travel. We usually have our kids 3 across in our Honda Odyssey. When we take road trips, we put Theo in the back and leave a space between Josie and Margo. This way they can’t grab snacks or books or bother each other.

The Number One Most Important Tip For Traveling With Kids, Either During the Day or Overnight:

Don’t make the mistake that we did.

Have a puke bucket readily available.

On our last trip, for the return drive, we decided to leave around naptime and get home around 1:00 AM.

We could nap when the kids napped the next day and not be total zombies from driving overnight.

An hour into our trip, the kids were all sound asleep and Ben and I made the mistake of high-fiving each other over how great our plan was.

Then, Josie started throwing up in her sleep.

Yep. That happened.

Theo got sick next and we ended up having to stop at a hotel for the night, only about 4 hours into our 12-hour drive.

Let me tell you. The worst possible scenario when traveling with a little one is for them to throw-up in your vehicle. I’ll spare you the rest of the details, but IT WAS TERRIBLE.

I hope this gives you a bit of an idea of whether you should drive overnight or during the day with your children with tips for each way. Happy traveling!

The ladies of the Babywise Friendly Blogging Network are all blogging today on different topics of travel! Check out each post via the link below.

Chronicles of a Babywise Mom: Four Best Tips for Traveling with Four Kids

The Journey of Parenthood: How to Successfully Travel with an Infant

Team Cartwright: How To Teach Your Kids About the World Without Leaving Home

Mama’s Organized Chaos: Practice These Everyday and Your Child Will Travel With Ease

Christine Keys: How To Help Toddlers That Get Car Sick

P.S. Make sure you’re following me on social media to keep up with our family and all the twin cuteness! I am on Instagram , Facebook , and Pinterest !

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adree | The Keele Deal

Wednesday 22nd of January 2020

These are all such great road trip tips. Last year we did several road trips and about half of them, we did through the night. It's so nice to drive while the kids sleep and there is no traffic. Gret reminder to make sure the lights won't turn on when you open the door.

Thursday 23rd of January 2020

I'm so glad it was helpful for you! I am such a big fan of driving overnight, but 2 of my kids aren't great at sleeping in the car, so it doesn't work for us as well as it used to!

What you're owed when your flight is canceled or delayed may be less than you think

What happens if my flight is canceled?

What happens if a flight is delayed, what should i do if my flight is delayed.

Whenever a flight is canceled or delayed , it causes huge headaches for travelers, but they're not always owed the relief they think they deserve.

U.S. airlines are not required to offer compensation for delays outside their control, like severe weather or air traffic control issues . And policies vary from airline to airline when it comes to delays caused by controllable issues like maintenance problems and staffing shortages.

The Department of Transportation's interactive dashboard shows what each airline owes travelers for both cancellations and delays. Some airlines may offer additional flexibility beyond what is listed on the dashboard.

Here's what air travelers should know:

What happens if you get bumped? What to know when airlines overbook flights

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DOT rules require all airlines to offer customers a refund if their flights are canceled for any reason. What changes is what's offered to travelers who choose to rebook.

For example, If American, Delta, Hawaiian or United cancel a flight for controllable reasons, they're committed to:

rebooking passengers on the same airline or a partner airline, at no extra cost
providing a meal or cash or voucher for a meal when the cancellation results in a passenger waiting at least 3 hours for a new flight
providing complimentary hotel accommodations for any passenger affected by an overnight cancellation
providing complimentary ground transportation to and from a hotel for any passenger affected by an overnight cancellation

Alaska and JetBlue offer the same, plus some additional compensation.

Allegiant, Frontier, Southwest and Spirit do not book passengers on partner airlines. Additionally Frontier does not offer hotel accommodations and related transport.

"There are no federal laws requiring airlines to provide passengers with money or other compensation when their flights are delayed," according to the Department of Transportation, but U.S. carriers have committed to various levels of compensation for significant delays. Each airline, however, defines significant delays differently.

If a flight is significantly delayed for reasons within their control, Alaska, American, Delta, Jet Blue and United offer:

providing a meal or cash or voucher for a meal when the delay results in a passenger waiting for at least 3 hours for departure
providing complimentary hotel accommodations for any passenger affected by an overnight delay
providing complimentary ground transportation to and from a hotel for any passenger affected by an overnight delay

Alaska and JetBlue offer the same plus some additional compensation.

Allegiant, Frontier, Hawaiian, Southwest and Spirit do not rebook travelers on partner airlines. Frontier doesn't offer hotel accommodations or related transport either.

USA TODAY broke it down by airline: If your flight is delayed, you may be eligible for compensation from your airline

If your flight is experiencing a long delay, the Transportation Department suggests asking airline staff if they will pay for meals or a hotel room.

The DOT dashboard reflects airlines' official policies, but many carriers handle compensation for delays on a case-by-case basis and may provide vouchers or other benefits in some situations that are not formally covered.

For example, according to Delta's Customer Commitment , "Delta representatives are empowered with the flexibility and discretion to issue the following forms of compensation for passenger inconvenience when individual circumstances warrant doing so: cash equivalents (e.g., gift cards), travel credits/vouchers, and/or miles for SkyMiles members."

Best travel insurance: These policies offer the best value

Travel insurance also helps with cancellations and delays. Some credit card companies will also reimburse cardholders for expenses associated with travel disruptions, when travel is booked with their cards.

Contributing: Zach Wichter, Josh Rivera, USA TODAY; Associated Press

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Cuyana Easy Travel Tote Review: Soft, Durable And Built To Last

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In our wider review of the best travel totes on the market, we named Cuyana’s System Tote our best overall option. After the brand’s recent debut of the Easy Travel Tote, we decided to test it to see how it compares.

As a frequent traveler, I’m always looking for a tote that is both durable enough to carry heavy items like my laptop, chargers and tablet as well as stylish enough to bring to lunch or dinner after getting off a plane or train. Cuyana, a women-owned clothing and accessories brand known for its long-lasting quality, wearability and design, has been a staple of my travels for the past few years (the Travel Beauty Roll comes with me on every trip), so my ears perked up when I heard of the brand’s latest release, the Easy Travel Tote .

The Easy Travel Tote is the latest travel bag from women-owned clothing and accessories brand ... [+] Cuyana.

I had heard raves from friends and coworkers about Cuyana’s bags, including the System Tote , which we named the best travel tote in our larger review. Made from double-sided Italian leather that softens over time, Cuyana’s bags are investments that are built to last. With multiple trips each month, I often burn through luggage and bags (airport baggage carousels can really do some damage), so I was especially into the idea of having a bag that can withstand my heavy travel schedule, and decided to put the Easy Travel Tote to the test on a weekend road trip.

Cuyana Easy Travel Tote

Dimensions: 14.2 x 25.3 x 6.3 | Materials: Italian leather | Weight: 2.9 pounds | Accessories: Detachable crossbody strap; easy tote insert; zipper pouch; flap bag (all sold separately) | Care: Wipe clean with damp cloth

Weekend getaways and road trips
Those seeking a spacious bag made out of high-quality Italian leather
You need exterior pockets
You’re looking for a bag to slide over your suitcase; this tote does not come with a trolley sleeve

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This is your last day to shop way day 2024—here are the 85 best deals, spacious with multiple pockets and a top zipper.

Like many of Cuyana’s bags , the Easy Travel Tote is made from buttery, pebbled Italian leather. I’m a big fan of leather bags since faux leather can often give off a very chemical or plastic smell. The Easy Travel Tote has a warm, earthy and high-quality leather scent that I noticed as soon as I opened it.

The tote has a deep interior with two large pockets on each side that are spacious enough to hold a pair of headphones, chargers or tablet case. While the interior pockets are not zippered, I do appreciate that this bag has a zippered top, which means I don’t have to worry about items flying out of my bag during bumpy rides or flights (yes, this has happened to me before).

The Easy Travel Tote is the newest travel tote from women-owned clothing and accessories bag Cuyana.

Functional, Versatile And Durable

Because I was only going on a weekend trip, I decided to use the Easy Travel Tote as my primary bag and see how much I could fit inside of it. After inspecting its interior, I knew I could easily put all of its 37 liters of volume to good use. It’s several inches larger and wider than the Classic Easy Zipper Tote , which is the next size down, so I could seamlessly slide in my 16-inch laptop, tablet, all of my chargers, several tops and bottoms, a denim jacket, a pair of shoes and my purse, meaning I didn’t need to bring a suitcase on this trip. Better yet, the tote didn’t feel clunky or look oddly shaped when I picked it up, so I was able to bring it with me to a restaurant for lunch without any issues.

Another great feature of this bag is its versatility. I used a wide shoulder strap , which is sold separately, to sling the bag over my shoulders, making it easy to carry around everywhere. I could also see myself using this tote on commuter days when I’m bouncing around from the gym to dinner and need to bring along my laptop; its chic exterior lets it blend into different environments, from a train station to hang-outs with friends.

For those who prefer a tote they can sling over their shoulder, Cuyana offers adjustable straps that ... [+] are sold separately.

Cuyana Easy Travel Tote: The Final Verdict

After testing Cuyana’s Easy Travel Tote, I can attest to its quality, durability and style. I was able to fit so much inside of it, and it didn’t take up too much space in the trunk of my car. I also found it to be incredibly comfortable: its straps made it easy to sling over my shoulder and carry around shops and restaurants. However, for flights, I would have loved to see this bag include at least one external pocket for easy access to my passport. I also fear that with as much as I packed in it, its lack of trolley sleeve would make it balance very precariously on the top of my suitcase. And at $428, this bag is certainly a splurge, especially when you consider that all of its accessories are sold separately (the adjustable wide strap I used is $88).

The tote's interior is spacious with two large interior pockets that can hold a 16-inch laptop, ... [+] chargers, headphones or other items.

Yet for frequent travelers like myself, this bag delivers. It can easily be used as a gym bag, diaper bag, commuter bag and a personal item on a flight, which means you’ll get a lot of use out of it. And its high-quality leather exterior not only allows it to hold plenty of items while still looking stylish (no easy feat), but it will keep its shape and luster for years to come, making this tote a worthy investment.

Ukraine war latest: 'Undeclared Russian military intelligence officer' expelled from UK

The Home Office has expelled a Russian defence attaché as part of a series of measures against Moscow. James Cleverly said the attaché was an "undeclared military intelligence officer". Ask our military analysts or international correspondents a question in the box below.

Wednesday 8 May 2024 20:00, UK

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Live reporting by Ollie Cooper

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Kosovo's foreign minister has said her country is convinced Russia must lose the war in Ukraine for conflict not to spread further in Europe.

Donika Gervalla-Schwarz said her young nation's support for Ukraine was unconditional - despite Kyiv not having recognised Kosovo's independence.

Ms Gervalla-Schwarzd her small Balkan nation, which declared its independence from Serbia in 2008, is repeatedly reminded of the aggressive intentions of both Serbia and its ally Russia.

"Ukraine hasn't recognised the Republic of Kosovo as a state, but we really believe that we know exactly what Ukraine is going through," she told The Associated Press in an interview.

"And we know that there is only one solution, not only for Ukraine, but for Europe," she said.

"It can only be Russia to lose the war and Ukraine to win this war. Otherwise, Europe should prepare for other conflicts in our continent."

The people of Kosovo were the targets of war crimes and other atrocities by Serbia's security forces in the 1990s, an experience that led Kosovo to seek independence.

"While Kosovo is a small state with very modest possibilities to help, we have tried to be very helpful with Ukraine and have not hesitated to show our unconditional support and sympathy to the people and to the state of Ukraine," Ms Gervalla-Schwarz said.

Lord Cameron has called the UK's measures on a Russian defence attache "an unequivocal message" to Moscow.

The foreign secretary was replying to James Cleverly's post on X in which he said the Home Office expelled a Russian defence attache as part of a series of measures against the country.

Other measures in the package include removing the diplomatic premises status from several Russian owned properties in the UK and capping the amount of time Russian diplomats can spend in the UK.

Budapest is once again raising eyebrows across the world's biggest military alliance as it pledges to defy a NATO initiative.

The alliance's long-term plan to support Ukraine militarily was agreed in April, but was dubbed a "crazy mission" by Hungary's foreign minister today.

Under the plans, NATO would take over some coordination work from a US-led coalition known as the Ramstein group.

Discussing the plans today, Peter Szijjarto said: "Hungary will stay out of NATO's crazy mission despite all the pressure."

Relations between Budapest and NATO have soured because of Hungary's foot-dragging over the ratification of Sweden's NATO accession - finally passed by Budapest in March - and also over nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orban's close ties with Moscow.

The Russian embassy in London has said there will be "an appropriate response" after Britain expelled a Russian defence attache.

The embassy said the restrictions that had been imposed were done under a "groundless and ridiculous pretext", according to Russian state news agency TASS.

It comes after Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova was reported as telling journalists that the Kremlin will respond appropriately following the expulsion.

Dominic Waghorn, international affairs editor

It's always assumed defence attaches play some kind of role gatherling intelligence and that is generally tolerated by their host countries.

They could be gathering data about weapons production for instance or ship building but there is a line they are expected not to cross.

The assumption here is that the Russians have broken the rules of the game.

But the British government will have thought long and hard before expelling the Russian. It doesn't come without cost.

In their day jobs defence attaches play a crucial role in liaising with their hosts. That can be very important in terms of avoiding misunderstandings that could lead to unnecessary and dangerous escalation.

Losing Russia’s defence attache in London deprives the UK of one more line of liaison at a time when clear understanding and clarification could be essential to avoiding deepening conflict.

That is not ideal at a time of war.

What is not clear is how much these moves are connected specifically to the conduct of the Russians involved or should they actually be seen more as another chapter in the diplomatic war underway between Russia and the UK.

The UK has undoubtedly weakened Russia's ability to spy in the UK and gather intelligence but these measures will also affect Britain's ability to predict and avoid potential escalation.

That will be made even worse if Russia, as may be expected, responds with like-for-like retaliation

Seven people have been injured by Russian shelling in eastern Kharkiv, according to the region's governor.

Oleg Synegubov said among those wounded was an eight-year-old girl and three boys, two aged 14 and the other 15.

"Two [of the] boys are in serious condition, [the other] boy and [the] girl are in average condition," he said.

One 55-year-old civilian of unspecified gender was also hospitalised.

Two women had minor injuries.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps has offered his thoughts on the expulsion of a Russian defence attache the government has accused of being an undeclared military intelligence officer.

"Today we've expelled Russia's defence attache who has been working as an intelligence officer for Putin in the UK," he said on X.

"We will not tolerate Putin’s efforts to undermine our nation and democracy and will continue to stand up for freedom here and in Ukraine."

Each week we ask readers for their questions on the war for our military analysts and international correspondents.

This week, military analyst Sean Bell answers:

Why is Ukraine focusing its drone attacks on oil refineries rather than near the front lines? Mike

Thanks, Mike, for this topical question.

Although the ultimate metric of success in this brutal war is territory gained, to achieve that outcome requires a more complex strategy than simply focusing on the frontline battle.

One of the reasons that the Royal Air Force was formed as an independent service was the recognition that greater impact could often be achieved by targeting enemy logistics and supply lines behind the frontline, rather than simply focusing effort on the "close battle".

Military action is ultimately driven by political will to achieve a desired end-state; the military simply creates the conditions in which a political outcome can be achieved.

At the tactical level of warfare, the focus is on the battles of individual soldiers and units prevailing against tactical targets.

However, at the other end of the spectrum, senior military strategists seek to attack the enemy's "centre of gravity" - the one thing that the enemy cannot afford to lose and thus must protect at all costs.

'Fight smarter'

In the Second World War, much of the Allied bombing effort was targeting German industrial capacity, as without the ability to regenerate military equipment and ammunition, the war would not be sustainable.

Ukraine has a smaller army than Russia, and so any conventional attritional battle would favour Russia.

Therefore, Ukraine has to try to "fight smarter" and erode Russia's will - or capacity - to fight.

A war on this scale consumes huge quantities of resource, which has to be funded in some way.

Russia's oil exports fund Vladimir Putin's military campaign and also pay for imports of vital munitions from North Korea and Iran.

By targeting the enemy's oil facilities Ukraine will be aiming to reduce Russia's export capacity, which in turn impacts Russia's ability to fund the war.

That might not help the close battle, but could undermine Russia's commitment to a longer-duration conflict.

And, although drones are an "irritation" to the frontline forces, the quantity of explosives they are able to deliver is relatively small, so their effect is relatively limited.

However, an oil facility is very vulnerable to a relatively small-scale explosion, which can spread swiftly to destroy a crucial part of Russia's critical national infrastructure - more bang per buck.

So, although Ukraine desperately needs to stop Russia from breaking through its frontlines, we can expect to see Ukraine continue to target energy infrastructure as part of a broader strategy in its war with Russia.

We now have more details regarding the freshly expelled Russian defence attache we reported on in our 1.10pm post.

The attache accused by the Home Office of being an undeclared military intelligence officer spying for the Kremlin is Colonel Maxim Elovik.

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Post-Tribune | Merrillville man on trial after beating boy,…

Post-Tribune

Post-tribune | merrillville man on trial after beating boy, 11, to get confession in baby’s death.

If the kid watched the baby overnight, Murray let him play X-Box. That night, when Burnette cried, the other boy took him from the baby swing. He tried to feed him a bottle, before he put the baby on his chest on the sofa.

At some point, the boy fell asleep, rolled onto the baby — smothering him.

A month after that calamity, Hughes called Indiana Department of Child Services investigator Elena Makarenko, saying he got a recorded confession from the older boy. Police said he beat the kid in a garage.

Hughes, now 52, went on trial this week. The jury started deliberations Wednesday afternoon.

He was charged on Dec. 14, 2020 with neglect of a dependent resulting in death, a Level 1 felony; neglect of a dependent resulting in bodily injury, a Level 5 felony; and battery resulting in bodily injury to a person under 14, a Level 5 felony. He has pleaded not guilty.

Court records show Murray’s trial is now set to start July 22. She is charged with neglect of a dependent resulting in death, a level 1 felony, and neglect of a dependent resulting in bodily injury, a level 5 felony.

Deputy Prosecutor Keith Anderson said Tuesday in opening arguments Hughes was neglectful by leaving a premature baby that just got home from the neonatal intensive care unit in the hands of another child.

Hughes compounded the situation by later beating the older boy, Anderson said.

Defense lawyer Russell Brown argued the baby’s death was a “tragic accident.” The question for jurors was if Hughes “knowingly” placed the infant in danger, he said.

On Wednesday, Merrillville Police Det. Matthew Paunicka, the lead investigator, testified that he first thought it was a “tragic accident,” too, but expanded the case after Makarenko heard the recording.

The family’s dynamic was “very strange” and “neglectful,” he said.

On cross-examination, Paunicka told Brown he was relying on Hughes to voluntarily turn over the recording to DCS. That never happened. He didn’t have enough information to subpoena for it.

Later, during written jury questions, when one asked if he personally heard the recording, Paunicka said no.

Brown also asked Paunicka if he went back to Hughes’ home after the baby’s death — for crime scene pictures, for example, like a ladder or stairs in the garage that would back up the older boy’s account of getting beaten there.

The detective said no, it wasn’t a “fresh” crime scene by that point, things could have been moved, and he believed going back would not have helped the investigation.

Merrillville Police responded at 8:35 p.m. Aug. 9, 2020 to Hughes’ home on the 6100 block of Pennsylvania Street. The baby was lying on the floor, court records show.

He was already cold to the touch. Paramedics told Hughes and Murray there was nothing they could do. The child was born at 28 weeks and got home about a month earlier from the NICU.

Murray told Indiana Department of Child Services investigator India Davies that when she woke up to check the baby in a swing, the older boy, 11, was “panicking,” documents show.

The boy was “frightened” of Hughes, who he said was Murray’s fiancé, court documents show. Since the baby’s death, Hughes “blamed” and was “always watching” him. It was very hard for the boy to be at home, he told investigators.

He told investigators Hughes and Murray left him to watch the baby before. During times he couldn’t get the baby to stop crying, the couple would scream at him and tell him to make a bottle. They never came upstairs to check on the baby, he alleged.

The older boy told Makarenko on Sept. 10, 2020 that Hughes and Murray questioned him in the garage about two weeks earlier. The boy said that he had smothered baby’s mouth with his hand “one time” for a “few seconds” to try to get him to stop crying. The baby was still alive and breathing, he said, according to court documents.

Lawyers said Wednesday, the boy testified that happened the night before the baby died.

His sister told investigators the boy volunteered some nights to play video games, but it quickly became his responsibility. Caring for the baby shouldn’t have been on them, she said.

Hughes called DCS on Sept. 10, 2020 with several tape recordings. The last one was “over an hour” where a case worker heard “smacking,” “punching,” “crying,” and “screaming.”

The boy later said Hughes dragged him by the hair to the garage for two hours where he beat him in the face and abdomen. “Rob” then threw him across the garage. The boy testified Tuesday afternoon that he hit a ladder and the stairs, according to lawyers.

Court documents state a doctor later diagnosed the boy with a concussion and noticed a two-week-old bruise on his right thigh. When a DCS caseworker served the custody papers to remove the older boy from the home, Murray and the boy got into a screaming match. Murray said Hughes didn’t mean to hurt the boy and she tried to step in.

In the garage, Hughes demanded the boy admit he did it — at one point going to get a kitchen knife, telling the boy he could kill him if he wanted, court documents state.

Murray only intervened at the end.

“Leave him alone, he’s just a kid,” she said.

[email protected]

Post-Tribune | Of Notoriety: Jackson Brothers Hard Rock weekend includes Gary school invite

Indiana University Northwest Chancellor Ken Iwama recalled his introduction to campus life in 2020 along with Wednesday’s graduates in the Class of COVID. “When I arrived, this was essentially a ghost town,” Iwama said prior to Wednesday’s commencement exercise for more than 600 graduates. The ceremony was a poignant goodbye for Iwama. IU announced his appointment Monday as the university’s vice president for regional campuses and online education. He replaces Susan Sciame-Giesecke, who’s retiring. He starts his new post July 1. A search for his successor will begin, and a new interim leadership plan will soon be disclosed. Appointed in […]

Post-Tribune | Final farewell ‘bittersweet’ for Chancellor Ken Iwama and Indiana University Northwest grads

A Merrillville man avoided prison Tuesday for his role in a 2019 shooting on Ridge Road near Wicker Park in Highland after leaving a summer festival in Munster, court records show.

Merrillville man avoids prison in 2019 road shooting near Wicker Park

Lake County Coroner David Pastrick held a steady lead Tuesday night over two challengers in the Democratic primary.

Post-Tribune | Lake County Coroner David Pastrick holds lead in Democratic primary

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Baby Travel Checklist: What to Pack When Traveling With Children
Baby food: enough to last the whole trip if your baby is eating solids (or you can buy more when you get there for longer trips) Portable cooler and ice packs ; A bottle brush ; Infant utensils and a sippy cup if your baby uses one ; Resealable bags in different sizes to store snacks and soiled baby clothes
Ultimate Guide to Travel With a Baby: Including Expert Tips
Managing Air Pressure Changes. Air pressure changes during takeoff and landing can cause discomfort for your baby. Offering a pacifier, bottle, or breastfeeding during these times is the best way to help your baby with the air pressure changes. The sucking can help your baby equalize the pressure in their ears.
The Complete Baby Packing List for Travel
Our complete baby travel packing list outlines all the must-have items for traveling with a baby. From diaper-bag necessities to in-flight essential items, we've thought through everything you'll need on your next family vacation. Read on for packing tips, a printable packing list you can customize for each trip, and details about our ...
The Ultimate Packing List for Baby Travel (+printable checklist!)
Shirts & Onesies | Usually 2-3 tops, adding 2-3 more in winter months. Dresses or Rompers | Usually 2-3 for warmer destinations, because they're so easy to pack and don't require mixing and matching tops and bottoms. Socks | 2-3 pairs, even in the summer months in case we end up somewhere chilly.
My Top 5 Sleep Tips for Traveling With a Baby
Also, check out Baby's Away for renting a crib (or other baby equipment) if you are staying with family. 4. Maintain your bedtime routine while away. A familiar bedtime routine cues your baby's brain to the coming sleep. If you typically do a bath, give a mini massage, dress in jammies, feed her, and then read a book before placing her in ...
The ultimate packing list for traveling with a baby
Travel gear. To get your baby from point A to point B, you'll need a few basics. Travel stroller. If you're running late to catch a flight, it's much easier to push your baby in a lightweight umbrella stroller than to carry them through a long terminal. Some travel strollers are Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-approved and fold to fit in the carry-on bins on board, but most get gate-checked.
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Avoid outfits with buttons or snaps on the back of the clothing. These can be uncomfortable for babies to lay on for long periods of time. Zip Footie Pajamas - For infants, skip those fancy outfits and go straight for the pajamas all day. Avoid multi-piece outfits that will bunch up and cause discomfort for a baby.
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This was Juniper's 2nd overnight backcountry camping trip (Cracker Lake, Glacier National Park). Guide to traveling with a baby. Our story: Read about our travel-style and our background so you understand our approach to traveling with a baby. Top tips: Wanna get to the good stuff right away?Jump right down to our top tips for traveling with a baby!
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Extra clothing for both you and your baby (yes, trust me, you need a backup outfit just in case). Layers of clothing or blankets (plane temperatures can vary). Pacifier and clip (and backup). Comfort toy or blanket. Extra diapers (enough for an unexpected delay). Formula/breast milk/pump.
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Check the airport for family friendly spaces. Use nursing spaces or pods and family restrooms to reset as needed. Check lounges for nursing and play rooms. —Sara Conger. Take an early morning ...
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Eufy Baby Monitor Check Availability. BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light Check Availability. Blackout Cover for Pack 'n Play Check Availability. Baby Tula Lite Baby Carrier (with fanny pack) Check Availability. Here's the list of road trip items we took, many of which are the best baby products for travel. The below list is based on a three-day two ...
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From travel tips to packing essentials, this guide covers everything you need to know on how to road trip with a baby from newborn to 24 months. ... Diapers are an obvious item for your baby road trip checklist. Consider overnight diapers if you plan to drive through the night while your baby sleeps. The added material and increased absorbency ...
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4. Getting Baby Sleeping in the Car. Every baby is unique and hopefully you'll have a good idea of what conditions make your baby sleep in the car. This is stating the obvious, but for a baby on a road trip, sleeping in the car is a great way to easily pass the time. Our daughter asleep in the car.
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1. Take Along Some Comforts of Home. Finding little ways to simulate your nursery will make a big difference when putting baby at ease in an unfamiliar place. Pack whatever you can fit (within reason) to replicate baby's sleep routine, such as a favorite lovey, white noise machine, swaddle blanket or bedtime story. 2.
Travel Packing Checklist for Baby and Toddler
Baby monitor- We have a travel bag and extra cords for ours so we just disconnect the camera, and put it all in the bag. We have used this during our travels so many times- like at the beach, when we could lounge beside the pool while our baby napped inside the house. Toddler Travel Packing List Clothing. Outfits- 1 per day; Underwear; Diapers ...
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2. Pack as much of the car as you can the night before your road trip with baby. Whether you're leaving at 5am or 5pm, try to pack the car ahead of time to minimize stress the day you're leaving for your trip. Ideally, I try to have everything in the car but the diaper bag and cooler well before our departure time.
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Transporting the Baby/Toddler. • Stroller. • Car Seat. • Baby Carrier (e.g. Lillebaby/Baby Bjorn) • Bag for carrying stroller and/or car seat (optional) • Cart for Carrying Car Seat (optional) When you gate-check (or regular check) your car seat or stroller you have the option to insert them into a bag.
Tips for a Road Trip With a Baby: How to Survive the Long Drive
Pack milk for the ride if your baby is too young for water. Sipping yogurt - Driving may take away the baby's appetite. Sipping yogurt is easy to eat in the car, will fill them up a bit, and often tastes good enough to entice them to eat. Finger foo ds - Beef jerky, cheese puffs, finger sandwiches.
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Clean up kit- plastic tote with a snapping lid full of Clorox wipes, baby wipes, paper towels, toilet paper, a change of clothes per kid (especially bottoms if newly potty trained), bottle of water for clean-up purposes, empty Walmart sacks, extra car sick bags, hand sanitizer. Car Organization for a Road Trip With A Toddler or Baby.
Tips for Driving Overnight With a Baby or Toddler
Driving overnight with a baby may sound daunting, (or traveling with a baby at all) but our firstborn was 6 months old when we made our first 12-hour road trip. Since he typically slept about 12-hours at night and slept really well in his infant car seat, it made sense for us to drive overnight. It was a risk, but it was wildly successful.
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Trial opens for Merrillville man charged after beating boy, 11, to get
Robert T. Hughes and Erin Murray left their 4-month-old son Burnette in her 11-year-old son's care, court documents allege. If the kid watched the baby overnight, Murray let him play X-Box.

What to Pack When Traveling With Baby

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My Top 5 Sleep Tips for Traveling With a Baby

How do I get my baby to sleep while traveling on vacation? # anchor

2. Plan accommodations carefully. # anchor

3. Pack the essentials to recreate the baby’s bedroom. # anchor

4. Maintain your bedtime routine while away. # anchor

5. Try to get one good nap a day. # anchor

Our travel includes a time change, how do we help our baby adjust to a new time zone? # anchor

Help! My baby won’t sleep on vacation, what should I do? # anchor

Where should my baby sleep while on vacation? # anchor

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