Surviving Baby's First Trip

Whether driving a few hours to visit the grandparents or jetting off for an extended family vacation, your baby’s first trip is a major milestone — and how you pack can make or break your experience. Despite their small size, babies need a lot of stuff, which is why it’s just as easy to overpack as it is to forget something crucial. To keep you on track, we’ve created a foolproof packing guide that includes all the essentials you’ll need for traveling with your little one.

Baby packing list: The big stuff

Let’s start with the most obvious items on your baby packing list. We’ll keep it brief, as this is the stuff you’re unlikely to forget. 

• Car Seat — If you’re traveling by car (and this includes taxis!), you will need an appropriately sized car seat for your baby. And even if you’re flying, the Federal Aviation Administration recommends that children under age 2 use infant/child safety seats while onboard aircraft for optimal safety.    
• Stroller — Bring your favorite stroller, if space allows, or opt for a more compact, foldable travel stroller if you want a lightweight, space-saving alternative.
• Travel Crib — Unless you’re completely certain that your destination will provide a clean, safe crib (say, at a relative’s home), it’s a good idea to bring your own travel crib for baby.
• Travel High Chair — If your little one is big enough to sit up and eat on their own, a travel high chair can make mealtimes much more enjoyable for everyone. Look for models that clip onto the table edge, and try it out before your trip to make sure it’s a safe, solid fit.
• Baby Carrier — Your carrier will allow you to explore with your baby without being weighed down by a stroller, which can sometimes be cumbersome. Bonus: many babies prefer to nap in a carrier.
• Diaper Bag  — Used as a carry-on or simply tossed in the backseat, this is the bag that keeps your must-haves at your fingertips — think diapers, wipes, and food. It should be small enough for you to carry comfortably but large enough to fit everything you need. 

Baby packing list: Feeding supplies

This section of the packing list will vary based on how you’re currently feeding baby — are you breastfeeding, formula feeding, transitioning to solid foods, or somewhere in between? The most important thing is to pack everything you need for whatever stage you’re in (plus a little extra, to be safe). A few key items you’re likely to need:

• Bottles
• Bottle brush and dish soap
• Formula
• Breast pump and any necessary cleaning supplies
• Nursing cover, if you use one
• Baby food, bowl, and spoons
• Sippy cup
• Bib

If you’re flying, it’s helpful to know the special TSA regulations regarding formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (including puree pouches). These are all considered medically necessary liquids by the TSA, which means that you can bring more than 3.4 ounces in your carry-on baggage and they do not need to fit in a quart-sized bag. Just be sure to inform the TSA officer that you’re carrying these liquids and remove them from your bag so they can be screened separately. Keep in mind that regulations may be different when flying outside of the United States.

Baby packing list: Comfort and cleaning supplies

Keeping your baby clean and comfortable is a key part of happy travels for everyone involved. Leave the bulky baby towel and tub at home (unless you have unlimited packing space), and pack these true essentials instead.

• Diapers — More than you think you need, but don’t go overboard. You can stock up when you arrive at your destination.
• Baby wipes
• Plastic bags for disposing of dirty diapers and wipes
• Diaper cream
• Changing pad
• Sanitizing wipes
• Baby wash and lotion
• Infant toothbrush and toothpaste
• Minimum of 2 changes of clothes per day, with extras for good measure
• 2-3 baby blankets
• Pacifiers, if your baby uses them (including a few extras!)
• A favorite stuffed animal or teething toy
  

Baby packing list: Health and safety supplies

Boo-boos and upset tummies can happen when you’re on the road, so you should always be prepared with some health and safety supplies. Here are the basics: 

• Infant Tylenol or ibuprofen
• Thermometer
• First aid kit that includes bandages and antibiotic cream
• Nasal spray
• Gas drops
• Sunscreen and mosquito spray (depending on the season)
• Baby monitor

The best news about embarking on your first trip with your baby? After this, traveling with your child will just keep getting easier as your confidence grows, and packing will become second nature. 

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