By Trip Type

Traveling With Infants: Packing Tips and Lists

No two trips with a baby are the same—a trip taken with the same baby can be a very different experience at four months, eight months, and one year. No matter where and when you go, however, it’s best to keep the Boy Scout motto, “Be Prepared,” in mind. On your next trip with an infant, consider these packing tips and essentials:

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Car Travel With Infants

Tips

Pack some snacks in small reusable zip bags to avoid unhealthy food at rest stops.
Pack light, easily accessible snacks for others, in case you have a light sleeper in the back.
Plan extra time for rest stops.

What to Pack

Outdoor blanket to stretch out at rest stops
A new toy for every hour on the road, including some that attach to the car seat
Car mirror for rear-facing babies and toddlers
Car seat sun cover
Adhesive window shades for the back seat and rear windows
DVD player and/or sing-along CD’s
Snacks for kids and parents

Plane Travel With Infants

Tips

Plan for delays; choose a baby-friendly hotel in any of your stop-over cities.
Pay extra for itineraries with as few stops as possible.
Pack extra outfits in labeled Ziplock bags.
If possible, ship as many items (like diapers and wipes) as possible to your destination. Most hotels will accept same-day packages if asked beforehand.

What to Pack

Several extra changes of clothing for baby
At least one change of clothes for parents
Labeled Ziplock bags with items for messes, feeding and diaper changes
At least one diaper for every hour in transit, plus a few extras
Something for baby to suck on during takeoff and landing
Car seat and stroller travel bags (even if gate is checking)
Baby carrier
Applicable rules printed re: car seats, nursing in public and TSA liquids policy

Beach or Pool Destination With Infants

Tips

Go to a beach or pool where umbrellas and chairs can be rented for the day.
Plan to be inside, perhaps at a nearby restaurant, during the worst of the midday sun.

What to Pack

Sun tent
Swim diapers
UV protective sun suit with sleeves and arms
Pediatrician approved sunscreen (ask if your baby is under six months). Some suggestions: California Baby, Badger
Sunhat (bonus if it comes with a neck flap)
Sunglasses (like Babiators)
Stroller fan
Baby float
Sippy cups if your child is on solid foods
Outdoor blanket
Beach toys

RV Camping With Infants

Tips

Stay close to home for the first trip, and stay near a town.
Bring a playpen for sleeping, downtime and playtime.
Bring extra blankets.

What to Pack

Bug spray (California Baby and Badger come recommended)
Citronella candles
Simba mosquito stickers and/or bracelets
Bottled water
Baby carrier for hikes
Loose, cotton clothes that are breathable and long sleeves and pants
Snacks outside of mealtimes for children on solid foods
First aid kit
Outdoor blanket(s)
Pack & Play or portable crib

Cruising With Infants

Tips

Check the age limitations on your cruise ship. (Many don’t allow babies under six months of age.)
Book a hotel and arrive near your port of departure a day early.
Choose a cruise line that offers baby amenities so you don’t have to lug everything onboard.
Check if your cruise line offers a program for infants and if it allows non-potty trained babies into the pool.

What to Pack

An inflatable bathtub
The smallest stroller you have, and only if necessary
A baby carrier
Any medication you may need
Other medical needs like thermometers, snot suckers, suppositories
A sound machine for naps in case the room is noisy
Baby food and snacks. The ship’s options may be limited, not as advertised or very expensive
Swim diapers if your baby is allowed in the pools
Disposable bottle liners so you are only washing parts of the bottles daily
If your child is on formula, bring the powdered kind and buy bottled water on board