Traveling with a baby can feel overwhelming, but having a checklist makes it so much easier! Here’s a simple and practical packing list to ensure you have everything you need for a smooth trip. I use this packing list every single time. Please tweak to suit your needs. For example, instead of vitamin D drops, you may have another essential multivitamin you give to your baby everyday (or not).
If you’re not sure where to buy some items, I have included product recommendations to help you out.
Diaper bag essentials
Starting with the diaper bag which you will take with you everywhere during your trip. Here are the items you will surely need:
- Diapers – Bring enough for the trip plus extra for delays. If flying, pack at least one per hour of travel in your carry-on.
- Wipes (Fragrance-Free) – Travel-size for convenience, full-size for extended trips.
- Diaper Cream
- Portable Changing Pad – You’ll need this in public restrooms and unexpected places.
- Disposable Diaper Bags – A lifesaver for containing messy nappies and odor.
Feeding Essentials
For Breastfeeding Moms
- Breast Milk bags & Cooler – If you’re pumping, Iin addition to a compact breast pump you’ll need breast milk storage bags or bottle, as well as a milk cooler that keeps milk fresh for up to 24 hours. The momcosy chiller is a great milk cooler—it comes with two storage bottles, it’s TSA-approved and keeps milk cold without ice packs.
- 3 Large Muslin Cloths – Muslin cloths are an essential for any trip. I only buy the ones called muslin swaddles because they are large enough to be multi-purpose:
- One as a burp cloth
- One as a nursing cover
- One as a light baby blanket
Muslin cloths are very light and can easily be washed every night for use the next day.
For Formula-Feeding Moms
There are a couple of things you need to make feeding a breeze.
- Pre-Measured Formula dispenser – depending on the length of your trip, you may want to carry formula dispensers for easy bottle prep. For long trips, you should take the entire formula tub but you can also use the formular dispensers in the diaper bag when on the move.
- Bottles with Extra Nipples – Washing and sterilising bottles whilst travelling is not fun. Until I recently found this steriliser bag and momcosy portable bottle wash and dry set, this was one thing I always dreaded when travelling with a baby. Whilst both items have made it easier to clean my bottles, i’ld still recommend taking at least two bottles with one extra nipple to avoid constant washing.
- Portable Bottle Warmer – When its time to feed baby, a USB-charged bottle warmer like this instant bottle warmer is perfect for warming both formula milk or breastmilk. Because of how compact it is, it is also suitable for any travel, whether road or airplane.
For Babies Eating Solids
If your baby has started eating solids, here are a few things that will be useful
- Pouch or Jar Baby Food – Choose squeeze pouches for easy feeding.
- Snack Catcher – A spill-proof snack container keeps food mess-free will be great to have.
- Sippy Cup – A leak-proof, insulated cup like the Munchkin Miracle 360 Trainer Cup is great avoid water spills.
- Bibs – silicone bibs with a catch pocket also help to reduce mess during snack or meal times.
Clothing & Sleep Must-Haves
When it comes to clothes, the duration, weather and nature of your trip (outdoor, indoor) will greatly affect how many items you carry.
- Onesies (2 per day) – This will serve as their pyjamas, but you also change baby into a onesie of their outfit for the day becomes soiled. Hence the need to plan for two a day. However, if you pl. to do laundry during your trip, you can take much less onesies – one a day would suffice.
- Outfit for the day (1 per day + 1 extra)
- Socks & Mittens – Helps keep baby cozy.
- Lightweight Jacket or Sweater – Even warm destinations can have cool evenings.
- Extra Outfit for Every Travel Day – Always have a spare in your diaper bag.
- Baby Blanket or Swaddle – For naps on the go when the weather is cold.
Health & Safety Essentials
- Gripe water or gas relief – For young windy babies, it’s important to take whatever remedy you use to provide them with relief at home, so they can have a good night sleep on the trip.
- Infant Pain Reliever (Tylenol/Ibuprofen) – Pack this just in case.
- Nasal Aspirator – This is a must for stuffy noses.
- Teething Gel or Teething Toys – Helps keep teething baby comfortable during the trip
- Sunscreen (if 6+ months) – if your destination is somewhere with a lot of sunshine, you should also go with sunscreen. It’s advisable to use a baby-safe, mineral-based sunscreen.
- Baby-Safe Bug Spray – If traveling to a buggy area, don’t forget the bug sprays, especially during summer.
Travel Gear
- Stroller – If space is tight, a lightweight, foldable stroller like the Babyzen YOYO2 or Doona is ideal for travel.
- Car Seat – This is essential if any part of your trip will involve travelling in a car. Consider a travel car seat bag if checking it in.
- Travel Crib or Bassinet – If your hotel/Airbnb doesn’t provide one, a Pack ‘n Play or Guava Lotus Travel Crib is a great option.
- White Noise Machine or App – Helps baby sleep in unfamiliar places.
For Mom
- Extra Shirts – Because spills and spit-ups don’t just happen to baby.
- Hand Sanitizer – A must for keeping hands clean.
- Water Bottle – Staying hydrated is essential, especially if breastfeeding.
- Snacks – Keep energy levels up with healthy, travel-friendly options.
Bonus Tip: Keep Everything Organized
- Use packing cubes for baby’s clothes.
- Store milk, bottles, and snacks in a separate insulated bag.
- Keep all diapering supplies in a dedicated pouch for quick access.
This isn’t just a list—it’s your stress-free baby travel guide. Whether you’re taking a quick trip or a long-haul flight, packing smart will help you focus on what matters most: enjoying the journey with your little one!
