The Ultimate Family Travel Packing List: Toddlers and Infants Edition

By Sari

Mar 14, 2025

In Family Travel Tips

0

Planning a family trip with toddlers and infants can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to packing. What do you absolutely need? What can you leave behind? How do you avoid overpacking while still ensuring you have everything your little ones require? This ultimate family travel packing list is designed to alleviate your stress and help you prepare for a smooth and enjoyable vacation with your precious cargo.

Why a Dedicated Toddler and Infant Packing List is Essential

Traveling with babies and toddlers is different from traveling solo or as a couple. Their needs are unique and ever-changing. Forgetting essential items can lead to discomfort, inconvenience, or even health issues during your trip. A well-thought-out toddler and infant packing list ensures you're prepared for any situation, allowing you to relax and create lasting memories with your family. This also prevents having to purchase items on vacation which could be costly. More importantly it gives you peace of mind so you can enjoy the vacation.

Clothing Essentials: Keeping Your Little Ones Comfortable

Packing the right clothes is crucial for your child's comfort, especially when traveling to unfamiliar climates. Consider the weather at your destination and pack accordingly. Layering is always a good idea, as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day.

• Bodysuits/Onesies: Pack plenty of these, especially for infants. They're easy to layer and perfect for sleeping.
• T-shirts and Shorts/Pants: Choose comfortable, breathable fabrics like cotton.
• Sweaters or Jackets: Essential for cooler evenings or air-conditioned spaces.
• Sleepwear: Pajamas or sleep sacks, depending on your child's age and preferences.
• Socks and Shoes: Pack several pairs of socks and comfortable walking shoes. Don't forget water shoes or sandals for the beach or pool.
• Hats: Protect your child from the sun with a wide-brimmed hat.
• Swimsuits: If you're planning on swimming, pack a couple of swimsuits.
• Special Occasion Outfit: If you have a fancy dinner or event planned, pack one special outfit. However, it is more important for your child to be comfortable.
• Bibs: Absolutely essential if you have a messy eater.

Pro Tip: Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space. Use packing cubes to organize different types of clothing and compress them further.

Diapering Necessities: Staying Clean on the Go

Diapering is a constant task with babies and toddlers, so being prepared is key. This section is important in your infant packing list.

• Diapers: Pack more than you think you'll need, especially for long flights or road trips. Consider overnight diapers for longer stretches.
• Wipes: Essential for cleaning up messes of all kinds.
• Diaper Rash Cream: To prevent and treat diaper rash.
• Changing Pad: A portable changing pad provides a clean surface for diaper changes anywhere.
• Diaper Bags: Bring a diaper bag or consider using reusable bags to reduce the impact on the environment.
• Hand Sanitizer: To keep your hands clean after diaper changes.

Pro Tip: Consider the climate you are going to. If you are going to a hotter climate you will need a diaper rash cream with zinc in it.

Feeding Supplies: Keeping Bellies Full and Happy

Whether you're breastfeeding, formula-feeding, or your child is eating solids, having the right feeding supplies is crucial.

• Formula/Breast Milk: Pack enough formula or breast milk for the entire trip, plus extra in case of delays. If breastfeeding, bring a nursing cover for privacy.
• Bottles and Nipples: Bring several bottles and nipples, and make sure they're clean and sterilized.
• Sippy Cups: For toddlers who are transitioning from bottles.
• Food Pouches: Convenient and mess-free for on-the-go feeding.
• Snacks: Pack a variety of healthy snacks, such as crackers, fruits, and vegetables. Avoid sugary snacks that can lead to meltdowns.
• Bowls, Spoons, and Utensils: Pack your own, especially if your child is picky about what they use.
• Bibs: Reiterate the importance of bibs for meal times.
• Bottle Brush and Dish Soap: To wash bottles and utensils.
• High Chair Cover: For use at restaurants. You never know how clean the highchairs are, so bring a high chair cover.

Pro Tip: Pack snacks in individual bags for easy access. If traveling internationally, research whether you can bring breast milk or formula into the country.

Health and Safety: Preparing for the Unexpected

It's always better to be prepared for minor illnesses or injuries while traveling with children.

• First-Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers (appropriate for your child's age), thermometer, and any medications your child takes regularly.
• Sunscreen: Protect your child's skin from the sun with a high-SPF sunscreen.
• Insect Repellent: Choose a repellent that is safe for children.
• Hand Sanitizer: To keep germs away.
• Prescription Medications: Bring enough of any prescription medications your child takes, along with a copy of the prescription.
• Thermometer: Easy to monitor your child's tempurature.
• Saline Drops: To alleviate stuffy noses.

Pro Tip: Consult with your pediatrician before your trip to discuss any necessary vaccinations or health precautions. Keep a copy of your child's medical records with you.

Entertainment and Comfort: Keeping Boredom at Bay

Keeping children entertained and comfortable during travel can prevent meltdowns and make the journey more enjoyable for everyone. Making this a priority on your toddler packing list will pay dividends.

• Favorite Toys and Books: Bring a few of your child's favorite toys and books to provide comfort and entertainment.
• Travel-Sized Games: Compact games are perfect for occupying little hands.
• Electronic Devices: Tablets or portable DVD players can be lifesavers on long flights or car rides. Pre-load them with movies, TV shows, and educational apps.
• Headphones: Essential for using electronic devices without disturbing other passengers.
• Blankets and Pillow: Provide comfort and familiarity, especially for naps.
• Stroller Fan: To keep your little one cool.

Pro Tip: Surprise your child with a new toy or book during the trip to keep them engaged. Download educational apps or audiobooks to make travel time more enriching.

Travel Gear: Making Transportation Easier

The right travel gear can make navigating airports, train stations, and city streets much easier.

• Stroller: Essential for transporting infants and toddlers, especially for long days of sightseeing. Consider a lightweight, foldable stroller for travel.
• Baby Carrier: A baby carrier allows you to keep your hands free while keeping your baby close.
• Car Seat: If you're renting a car or taking a taxi, bring your own car seat to ensure your child's safety.
• Travel Crib/Playard: Provides a safe and comfortable sleeping space for your baby or toddler.
• Diaper Bag: A well-organized diaper bag is essential for keeping all your baby essentials within reach.
• Travel High Chair: Some fold up and hook onto tables.

Pro Tip: Check with your airline about their policies on strollers and car seats. You may be able to gate-check them for free.

Documents and Essentials: Don't Leave Home Without These

These are the often forgotten, yet critical parts of your family travel packing list.

• Passports and Visas: Make sure your passports are valid and that you have any necessary visas.
• Flight/Hotel Confirmations: Keep copies of your flight and hotel confirmations, both printed and digital.
• Insurance Information: Bring your health insurance card and any travel insurance information.
• Emergency Contact Information: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including phone numbers and addresses.
• Cash and Credit Cards: Have a mix of cash and credit cards for different situations.
• Copies of Important Documents: Make copies of your passports, driver's licenses, and other important documents and store them separately from the originals.

Pro Tip: Scan or photograph all your important documents and email them to yourself or store them in a cloud service for easy access in case of loss or theft.

Post-Trip: Unpacking and Cleaning

Once you are back from your trip, unpack immediately. Wash all of your clothes and sanitize the toys. By unpacking right away, you ensure that you are ready for your next trip. Also, you reduce the risk of any mold growing on items in your suitcase.

Enjoying Your Family Vacation

With careful planning and a comprehensive family travel packing list, you can embark on a stress-free and memorable vacation with your toddlers and infants. Remember to be flexible, embrace the unexpected, and focus on creating precious moments with your loved ones. Happy travels! By taking the time to create your toddler and infant packing list, you are able to ensure that you are fully prepared for your next trip! Remember that it is not a failure to buy something on your trip that you forgot, but if you bring all the items with you, you are less likely to have to pay markups. Safe Travels!