Traveling with a baby for the first time (or second time, or third time) can be a little intimidating. Ok, let’s be honest! It can be very intimidating. What if baby absolutely loses it on the airplane? What if we bring too much? Or worse, too little! There are so many unknowns. And while you can’t predict everything that’s going to happen (these are babies we’re talking about here), preparation is key to making the most out of your trip!
P.S: Be sure to print out this packing checklist for smooth baby travel!
Everything you need to know and pack for traveling with a baby
This is a general list for traveling with a baby. Depending on where you’re traveling to, the season, and your little one, this list will need to be modified and added to!
RELATED: Traveling to the beach? Here are 15 Beach Essentials For Baby (And Mom)!
Tips for traveling with a baby
Get passports ready ahead of time
It takes 4-6 weeks to process a passport for a baby, so make sure to plan ahead for this!
Put baby in comfy clothes
There’s nothing worse than dealing with a difficult outfit when you’re trying to change diapers through airports and in a tiny airplane bathroom. Put your baby in comfy, dark-colored onesies that are easy to get in and out of! Be sure to load your diaper bag with more of these just in case, too.
Bring enough diapers and wipes for the trip, buy the rest there
The more room you can save, the better! Most likely, you can buy diapers and wipes wherever you travel to. Bring enough (and a few extra) for the trip, then purchase the rest when you arrive!
Carry-on baby essentials
Bring baby essentials in your carry-on bag just in case your luggage ends up lost, such as some baby food, essential outfits, baby monitor, breast pump, etc. Also, be sure to use a carry-on bag with wheels since you’ll also be carrying a diaper bag!
Check to see if your hotel/stay has a crib/Pack N’ Play
Several hotels will have a crib or Pack N’ Play available for you! This can save you energy and money since you won’t have to bring your own.
Wear your baby through security
Wearing your baby through security and the airport is a total lifesaver! Depending on the country, you may have to take baby out as you go through security. However, you can always wear your baby through the line and through the rest of the airport! This baby carrier allows baby to face out or in and is supportive for traveling with a baby!
Know the guidelines for bringing breastmilk/formula/baby food on airplane
Feel free to bring breastmilk, formula, and/or baby food in your diaper bag or carry-on bag! Here are TSA’s guidelines for traveling with a baby.
Buy more baby food upon arriving
Baby food can be weighty, especially in glass jars! Bring enough for travel in your diaper bag or carry-on bag, then buy or make the rest when you arrive.
Check your stroller and carseat at the gate
This is especially helpful in you have a long wait or long walking distance through the airport! It’s nice to be able to put your baby and possibly your diaper bag in the stroller/carseat as you walk through the airport. However, it may be better to go ahead and check your stroller and carseat if you have a short layover so that you can go straight to your next plane!
Window seat if possible
Having a window seat (or aisle seat) is great for traveling with a baby! This helps with nursing and keeping your baby from being distracted when napping.
Change diaper one more time before boarding plane
Right before boarding the airplane, be sure to change baby’s diaper one more time!
Nurse/feed baby on take off and landing
This is a great way to distract your baby and to open up their ears as pressure changes! Wearing a dark nursing cover can also be helpful, as it will keep your baby from being distracted while nursing and may even encourage them to fall asleep for a nap.
Request a bassinet
Some airplanes will have a bassinet that you can let baby sleep in. Since they are first come first serve, be sure to ask for one as soon as your board the plane!
Entertain baby with a book
When baby isn’t sleeping or nursing, entertain your little one by reading books! Small books are perfect for bringing along in your bags.
Get everything set up as soon as you arrive at your hotel
As soon as you arrive, be sure to get everything set up (crib, camera, monitor, sheets) and organize your baby essentials so that you don’t have to worry about it later!
Keep an extra trash bag or laundry bag for dirty clothes
This is great for keeping things separated and keeping dirty clothes from contaminating fresh clothes!
Know where doctors are
Especially if you’re in another country! Do your research before you leave so that you’re ready for anything.
Plan to be flexible!
Traveling with a baby can be challenging, but you’ve got this, momma!
Print out this printable checklist for traveling with a baby to be ready for anything!
Packing list
Luggage/Carry-On:
- Passport
- Baby carrier
- Stroller
- Carseat
- Pack N’ Play
- Baby food
- Breast pump
- Diapers
- Baby outfits
- Socks
- Coats & jackets (if cold)
- Bathing suits (if warm)
- Sunblock
- Bibs
- Burp cloths
- Mat or blanket for laying and sitting
- Baby soap/shampoo
- Diaper cream
- Monitor
- Noise machine
- Sheet for crib (if necessary)
- Baby toothbrush
- Medications
- Infant cereal
Diaper Bag:
- Toys
- Small books
- Diapers
- Wipes
- Change of outfit x 2
- Baby food, milk, and/or formula
- Spoons for baby food (optional)
- Snacks for adults and older kiddos
- Burp cloths
- Nursing cover
Jennifer says:
My baby is 15 months old, so this list is perfect for our upcoming trip out of the country. Thank you so much!
Christine McMichael replied:
That’s so perfect! Enjoy your trip!