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Toddler and Baby Packing List for Vacations

Packing for a trip with kids can feel like tackling the travel itself—messy, a bit stressful, but ultimately full of excitement. Lucky for you, we’ve crafted the ultimate toddler and baby packing list for vacations to turn you into a jet-setting pro.

Whether you’re getting ready for a road trip, an international adventure, or a quick flight to see friends and family, the right gear can turn potential chaos into a smooth and memorable journey.

From newborn travel essentials to the ultimate toddler packing list for airplanes, we’ve got you covered. We’re diving into the packing essentials for traveling with kids below.

When Can You Travel with Your Baby?

Before packing anything, check that it’s safe to travel with your baby at their age. Traveling with very young infants is usually not advised unless absolutely necessary. Their immune systems aren’t fully developed, and traveling can increase the risk of getting sick. Always check with your pediatrician before traveling with a baby—they'll let you know when your little one is ready to go.

Traveling by plane: There’s no legal minimum age for air travel, but airlines have their own rules, so always check with your carrier. Flying tends to be easier once your baby is a few months old, after you’ve settled into a routine and their immune system is stronger.

Traveling by car: Traveling with your baby in a car is generally safe from the moment they're born, as long as you have the right gear and follow safety guidelines. A rear-facing car seat is a must for your newborn's support and protection. Make sure the car seat is installed correctly and that your baby is securely fastened. Plan for frequent stops to feed, change, and give your baby and yourself a break from being seated.

No matter how old your baby is, preparation is key. Once you’ve confirmed they’re ready for the journey ahead, creating your traveling with a baby checklist is the next step to a smooth journey.

Must Have Newborn Travel Essentials

When it comes to packing newborn travel essentials, practicality is your best friend. Here’s a thorough rundown of what to bring when traveling with your newborn:

Feeding Essentials:

Travel-sized breast pump
Pre-measured formula
Sterilized bottles
Nursing cover
Baby blanket
Burp cloths
Bibs

Changing Essentials:

Diapers and wipes
Portable changing pad
Changes of baby clothes
Layered outfits for unpredictable weather and temperature changes
Plastic bags (for soiled diapers and clothes)
Diaper cream

Those are our must-haves for newborn travel essentials, but the lists above don't cover everything—here's a more comprehensive packing list for baby and toddler must-haves.

Travel Packing Checklist for Babies and Toddlers

When packing, ticking must-haves off a list ensures nothing gets missed. Here’s what else to consider when packing for travels with your kids:

Feeding and Changing Essentials:

Our newborn travel essentials are a good start, but here are some add-ons if you want to be extra prepared and have the space:

Sippy cups
Toddler snack containers and utensils
Catch-all bibs
Training pants
Disinfectant wipes

Clothing and Comfort:

Pacifiers
Travel-size toiletries
Multiple outfit changes
Layered clothing for varying temperatures
Comfort items—favorite blanket, pacifiers, and a few small toys
Hats and socks for extra warmth

Travel Gear:

A baby carrier: the Tushbaby Carrier doubles as a diaper bag and nursing pillow, with versatile carrying options and built-in storage and support
A travel bag like The Pack: a stylish crossbody men’s diaper bag for hands-free convenience and organization—perfect for holding whatever the Tushbaby Carrier can’t fit!
Storage for baby essentials like The Pod: a clip-on pacifier case that keeps pacis clean and accessible
A car seat (if traveling by car). Just ensure it’s appropriate for your baby’s age and weight

Health and Safety:

Baby first aid kit: band-aids, baby-safe pain reliever, digital thermometer
Hand sanitizer
Sunscreen and bug spray
Baby-proofing items—outlet covers and corner guards for if you’re staying in a non-baby-proofed space

Sleep Essentials:

Portable crib or bassinet (if not provided at your destination)
Sleep sacks or swaddles
White noise machine or app to help your baby sleep in new environments

Documentation and Miscellaneous:

Travel documents—baby’s passport, ID, and any necessary paperwork
Health insurance cards
Favorite toys and books to keep your little one entertained

Not every journey is the same, and you likely won't need everything on this list. The beauty of this guide is that you can tailor it to fit your trip. Simply go through the list, pick out what you need, and create your own personalized traveling with a baby checklist. The above list includes top items to add to a baby/toddler packing list for airplane travel, a baby packing list for roadtrips, and more.

Traveling with a baby can feel like a mission, but the Tushbaby Travel Bundle makes it seamless and stylish—and ticks multiple items off your packing list for baby. This all-in-one bundle includes the Tushbaby Hip Carrier, Changing Pad, The Pack, and The Pod—everything you need to conquer family travel.

The Tushbaby Carrier offers four carry positions, adapting to your baby’s needs and your comfort. With ample storage pockets for diapers, wipes, bottles, and even your phone and keys, everything you need is within arm’s reach. Plus, the built-in back support ensures you can carry your baby comfortably, avoiding the dreaded back strain during long journeys.

The Pack, our utility-style crossbody bag, adds hands-free convenience and blends seamlessly into your wardrobe. With inner strap attachments for keys and outer D-rings for The Pod, you’ll never have to dig through your bag again. The Pod keeps pacifiers clean and ready for quick access, ensuring you’re never caught off guard when your baby needs soothing. And for those inevitable diaper changes, we’ve included a fold-up, easy-to-clean vegan leather Changing Pad. It ensures diaper duty is always manageable, no matter where you are.

With the Tushbaby Travel Bundle, you’re ready for any adventure—from exploring the great outdoors to navigating city streets with your baby in tow.

Top Tips for Traveling with Babies

Traveling with a baby is always full of surprises—and with the right preparation, you can handle the not-so-welcome ones with clever forethought and packing. With that in mind, here are some top tips for traveling with kids.

Tip #1 - Pack light, but smart. First, streamline your packing list for baby. Focus on essentials to avoid turning your trip into a chaotic circus.

Tip #2 - Organize by category. Use packing cubes or ziplock bags to keep items grouped together.

Tip #2 - Consider timing. Timing is everything. We know it’s not always possible, but trying to plan your travel around your baby’s nap schedule/least fussy moments can make for a smoother journey.

Tip #3 - Keep them calm and comfortable. Keep comfort items like a favorite blanket or pacifier handy to make unfamiliar places feel more like home. Snacks and sippy cups are your secret weapons to prevent meltdowns.

Traveling with babies and toddlers doesn’t have to be daunting. With the right planning and a comprehensive packing list, you can transform potential chaos into a well-organized, enjoyable journey. From newborn travel essentials to road trip must-haves, every item on your packing list is a step towards a smoother trip.

Planning your next trip? Shop Tushbaby for top travel essentials!