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Traveling with a toddler can be quite a handful. Trust me, I’ve been there. But with proper planning and packing, you can enjoy a smooth, stress-free vacation with your family. Here’s a travel packing list that will make your life easier and help you remember everything you could possibly need – from travel cribs, to car seats, to travel toys. Go through this list to make sure you have everything you need for your baby. Then relax, take a breath, and enjoy your vacation. You got this!
This page contains affiliate links. I only recommend products that I’ve used and love! If you decide to purchase any products listed in this article, please do so through the links on this page. Doing so helps support this website at no additional cost to you. Please read my disclosure for more information.
The Ultimate Toddler Packing List
1. Travel Crib
Travel cribs take the stress out of figuring out where your baby will sleep. You’ll be in a different environment when traveling so you need to make sure your child is safe, secure, and comfy. The right travel crib can do just that. You can also use the travel crib as a play pen during the day.
Most airlines allow you to check your travel crib at no charge if you are traveling with a child under 2 years old. This depends on the airline of course so make sure you check with your airline before you travel.
Not sure which travel crib to get? I’ve been lucky enough to try two of the best travel cribs – the Lotus Travel Crib and the BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light.
Lotus Travel Crib
The Lotus Travel Crib seems to be a favorite among traveling moms. I really liked this crib and found it easy to use and very convenient. The Lotus travel crib is light, weighing only 13 pounds. It works for newborns right up to toddlers under 35 inches tall. There is no weight limit since the mattress is supported by the floor. The Lotus travel crib comes with a backpack, which makes it easy to carry.
Another plus is that the travel crib is easy to set up. It only took us a few seconds to have the crib standing. I actually think it’s easier to set up and take down than the Baby Bjorn. A unique feature of the Lotus travel crib is its side zip, which allows parents easy access to their little one. Don’t worry, you kid can’t unzip it from the inside.
Baby Bjorn Travel Crib
The BABYBJORN Travel Crib is another favorite. This travel crib is slightly heavier than the Lotus, weighing about 15 pounds. Like the Lotus Travel crib, it comes with a backpack. However, I don’t think it’s small enough to pack in your suitcase. The Baby Bjorn travel crib is easy to set up. Just make sure you follow the instructions. My favorite feature about the Baby Bjorn is its thick and comfy mattress.
Both the Lotus and the Baby Bjorn travel cribs are highly recommended. However, if I had to choose between the two, I would go with the Lotus travel crib. Why? It’s lighter, more compact, and easier to set up. Although I think the Baby Bjorn mattress is more comfy, the Lotus mattress is not far behind (it’s thinner but that’s about it).
Last but not least, one major factor that sways me over to the Lotus is the price. Both travel cribs are pricey, but the Baby Bjorn travel crib is way more expensive. Not only is the Lotus travel crib more affordable, you can now get it for a discounted price.
Now if your toddler is older, you may want to look into a toddler travel bed.
2. Mini Crib Sheets
You’ll need to pack mini crib sheets to use with your travel crib. I like the American Baby Company Portable/Mini Crib Sheet (comes in 2) because they fit snugly on most travel cribs, no matter what brand. I’ve used them on both the Lotus and Baby Bjorn travel cribs and they worked just fine.
3. Sleep Sack
I love sleep sacks because they keep my son warm and comfy at night. They’re a safe alternative to loose blankets and can be used all the way up to age 2. There are a variety of baby/toddler sized sleep sacks, but my favorite is the HALO SleepSack Wearable Blanket.
I’ve also used the Zipadee-Zip. I personally prefer the HALO Sleep Sack because it’s sleeveless so your baby’s hands are free. It’s also more roomy and works perfectly for my son. Some moms prefer to cover their babies’ hands, especially in an airport where they are going to try to touch everything. In those cases the Zipadee-Zip will be more suitable.
4. Travel Stroller (lightweight)
With infants, a baby travel system is always favorable. We used the Graco FastAction Fold Sport Stroller Click Connect Travel System. However, with older babies and toddlers (especially if your child can walk), a lighter stroller can save you a lot of headache.
We use the Summer Infant 3D lite Convenience Stroller. It is light (12 lbs) and super convenient! This stroller has a storage basket under the seat and a sun shade that actually blocks the sun. Plus it will hold up to 50 pounds so your child will likely not outgrow it until they are older. What I like best? When you are not using the stroller, you can just fold it up and sling it over your shoulder. Super handy! Make sure you use the stroller all the way up to the gate. You will need it!
Stroller Travel bag
Stroller travel bags are definitely worth getting. A stroller travel bag will protect your child’s stroller from dirt, germs, and scratches when you check it at the gate. There is a size for large/regular strollers and a smaller size for umbrella/lightweight strollers (although the large bag will work just fine for both). Keep in mind that you will be carrying your baby around in his/her stroller after your flight, so best to keep it clean. The J.L. Childress Gate Check Bag for Strollers does just that. Just keep it in the stroller basket until you are ready to check the stroller at the gate.
5. Baby Carrier
Ergonomic 360 Baby Carrier
I’m a huge fan of strollers but some moms just aren’t. If you want an alternative to a stroller, try a baby carrier. Depending on how big your little one is, the baby carrier may be less hassle. The Ergobaby 360 Cool Mesh Ergonomic Baby Carrier is a favorite among lots of moms! It has extra padding which makes it super comfy for both you and your baby. It’s also easily adjustable so you, dad, or anyone else can wear it. Plus you can choose your baby’s position: in the front – facing in or out (for infants); or on your back (for older babies/toddlers – up to 33lbs).
Infantino Flip 4-in-1 Convertible Carrier
Another favorite is the Infantino Flip 4-in-1 Convertible Carrier. This carrier has similar features to the one above, although I’d say the ErgoBaby Carrier is a bit more comfy. The plus with the Infantino Carrier is that it’s way more affordable. It’s hard to beat the quality you get for this carrier at $30.
6. Car Seat
You can just take your regular car seat. Just make sure that your car seat can be installed without the car seat base. I use the Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 LX , which can easily be installed by just using the seat belt. Just follow the instructions in the manual. Most airlines will allow you to check the car seat when traveling with a lap infant. Don’t forget to use a car seat travel bag.
Car Seat Travel Bag
Like the Stroller Travel Bag, Car Seat Travel Bags are great for protecting your child’s car seat when you check it in at the airport. Keep in mind, your car seat, along with your stroller, are stored at the bottom of the plane along with all the other luggage. They will likely get thrown around like your luggage too. Also keep in mind that you’ll be putting your child in it after, so I highly recommend you protect your car seat from germs with this bag. I use the JL Childress Gate Check Bag for Car Seatsbecause it’s affordable, durable, easy to use, and does the job quite well.
7. Baby Monitor
Taking your baby monitor with you on your trip is a good idea, especially if you are staying in a larger vacation rental. Like the car seat, you can just take the baby monitor you use at home.
I use the Samsung Wisenet SEW-3053WN BabyView Wi-Fi Remote Viewing Baby Video Monitoring System, which just requires wifi. All I need to do is check if my accommodation has wifi (and make sure you will have access to the password), then pack the camera and the monitor and that’s it! All set.
Many moms also swear by the Motorola MBP855CONNECT Portable Video Baby Monitor and Camera. It works the same way as the Samsung Wisenet. All you need is wifi.
8. Food Thermos
Food can sometimes be an issue when traveling with a little one. Sure you can just use the kid’s menu on the plane or at restaurants, but I know there are a lot of moms out there (like me) who prefer to give their children homemade food. How do I do that? Well, the trick is to keep the food insulated.
I love the Skip Hop Baby Zoo Little Kid and Toddler Insulated Food Jar/Thermos . It keeps my son’s food hot up to seven hours. It also keeps food cold for 5 hours (although I’ve never tried it with anything cold). Plus it’s BPA free, made of stainless steel, and comes with a spork. This has been a life-saver, not only during vacation, but when we are out and about running errands all day. Trust me, you will want at least one of these. We own three.
9. Bowls, Utensils, Snack Containers, Cups and Ziplock bags
You’ll also need bowls and utensils for food, containers for snacks, cups for drinks, and ziplock bags for everything else.
I like the Munchkin Love-a-Bowls 10 Piece Feeding Set which comes with lids and spoons. Perfect for travel!
Snack containers with lids are always helpful. The First Years Take & Toss Snack Cups are super convenient and affordable (you don’t have to toss them).
The OXO Tot Transitions Straw Cup are great for traveling. The cup keeps water, milk or juice contained and the lid protects the straw if the cup falls on the floor (as long as it’s closed). The bottle comes in two sizes, a 9 and a 5 ounce.
The Munchkin Miracle 360 Trainer Cup is also very handy for travel (especially if you are not big on straws). It has a sealed lid that help prevent spills. I personally prefer the OXO Straw Cup though, mainly because it’s easier for my son to use and it has a lid that covers the straw.
Ziplock Bags are not only great for traveling with a baby, but for traveling in general. You can use ziplock bags for basically anything, including packing smaller baby items and toiletries, or storing snacks to eat on the plane. Ziplock Bags are a definite must when traveling.
10. Silicon Bibs
Feeding a toddler can be messy, especially when you are traveling and on-the-go. These Waterproof Silicone Bibs are a life-saver when it comes to feeding time! The bottom part catches food that falls. I can’t tell you how many shirts and onesies have been saved by these bibs.
11. Portable bottle warmer
I’ve always been pretty old school when it comes to warming bottles. I’d just heat up some water in a cup and then stick the bottle in the water to heat up the milk. Never had an issue. We do the same when traveling as well. But then there’s that one time we were on a road-trip and I had to heat my son’s milk. There was no place to stop. We were in the middle of nowhere. It was at that moment I thought a portable bottle warmer would be great to have.
The Tommee Tippee Portable Travel Baby Bottle Warmer is perfect for trips and situations where you do not have access to an outlet. Just boil some water in the kettle before you leave and pour it in the bottle warmer. If you are ready to heat the bottle while you are traveling, just pour the hot water in the flask and stick bottle in the hot water. Works like a charm! You can use this is as a food warmer as well.
12. Diaper Bag/Backpack and Changing Pad
Diaper Bags are a must! Most airlines allow you to take the diaper bag on board (as your baby’s personal item), but check with your airline to make sure. It’s best to use a diaper bag that fits under the seat so you can have easy access during your flight.
TSA also allows you to travel with your baby’s water, milk/formula, juice, and food. So you will want a diaper bag with numerous compartments that will fit all your items. Insulation compartments are a plus.
Check out the Skip Hop Forma Travel Diaper Backpack. Its storage cubes make it perfect for organization and easy access. It also has insulated side pockets to store your baby’s bottles and food. The size is just right to fit under the seat and you can store your cell phone or tablet in the bag too!
Chances are your diaper bag comes with a changing pad (the Skip Hop Diaper Backpack does) but if not, you really need to get one. You may have to change your little one in public bathrooms, on the plane, or even in the back of a car. I like the SnoofyBee Portable Changing Pad. It keeps my son’s hands contained, which is a relief because he likes to touch everything (a nightmare for mommies in public bathrooms).
I also like to take NorthShore Changing Pads. These disposable changing pads are pretty handy. You can use these on top of your regular changing pad, and throw them away after (especially if you think there’s going to be a big mess).
You can also use them on the bed if you’re in your hotel room and don’t want the hassle of pulling your regular changing pad out the diaper bag.
13. Diapers and Wipes
Not much to say here except the obvious. Don’t leave home without these! BUT, don’t overdo it either. You’ll likely be able to purchase diapers and wipes at your destination (unless you are traveling to the Amazon or the Himalayas). So pack enough diapers to get you through the first day or two and then go from there. One diaper for every hour is a good rule.
14. Baby Hand Wipes/Hand Sanitizer or Sanitizing Wipes/ Disinfecting Wipes
Babies/toddlers like to touch everything! It will be hard to control this when you are traveling and who knows how many germs are on that chair, floor, or counter. Rest easy, that’s where baby hand wipes come in. I use Babyganics Alcohol-Free Hand Sanitizing Wipes for my son. They are non-allergenic, plant-based, alcohol free and kill 99.9% of germs.
My husband and I use Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes for our own hands.
15. Bath Tub and Bath Wash
Yes, you have to bathe your kid when on vacation. No you don’t have to take your regular bath tub (that would be silly). So what do you do when you’re staying in a hotel or Airbnb and you have to bathe your kid?
I use the Munchkin White Hot Inflatable Duck Tub. This makes packing a breeze and kids absolutely love it! It’s fun and comfy so it makes bath time a breeze! What makes it even better? It only costs $12. Totally worth it!
Keep in mind, you have to inflate the duck tub before you can use it. We use the Skoloo Ball Pump Hand Air Inflator to inflate the tub. It’s small and light. It only takes a few minutes to inflate the tub but it’s pretty easy. Another thing to keep in mind – you have to deflate the tub before packing it for your return. It takes a while so start deflating a couple hours before your return trip.
I like the duck tub because it is comfy for my son, but if the idea of inflating a tub doesn’t sound like fun to you, try the Stokke Flexi Bath Bundle. It’s a travel tub that you can fold and pack in your suitcase, but it’s not small enough to fit in your carry-on. Both the duck tub and the Stokke Flexi bath are great for older babies but should not be used for infants.
The Puj tub is worth mentioning here because it’s great for smaller babies (0-6 months). Just stick it in the sink, fill with water, and voilà, your baby’s bath tub is ready.
Bath Wash and Shampoo
I always like to pack bath wash for my baby, but this may be an item you can just pick up in a store, depending on where you’re going. I really like Aveeno Baby Gentle Wash & Shampoo because it is a tear-free wash and shampoo that is hypoallergenic, paraben-free, and phthalate-free. Plus it keeps my baby clean.
Don’t forget your baby towels and washcloths!
16. Baby Bottle & Dish Soap and Bottle Brush
Same as above, if you can just pick this up at a store great! If not, pack it!
Don’t forget your Bottle Brush to wash bottles and sippy cups.
17. Snot Sucker and First Aid Kit
Snot Sucker
Always walk with the snot sucker . Doesn’t matter if your kid isn’t sick. If they do get sick while traveling, it will be a life-saver. Don’t get caught off-guard. The NoseFrida Snotsucker Baby Nasal Aspirator and Saline Nasal Spray is the best way to remove snot from your baby’s nose so they can breathe. It’s light so it wouldn’t hurt to take this with you on your trip.
The concept of the snot sucker may seem gross at first, but it’s completely fine to use. Just make sure you follow the instructions and insert the filter to keep the snot at bay. The saline nasal spray works like a charm as well.
First Aid Kit
It’s always good to be prepared and a first aid kit will help you do just that. Whether it’s a scraped knee, a bee sting, or a slight temperature, traveling with your baby’s first aid kit will help you take care of your baby. Make sure your first aid kit has band aids, sting relief and antiseptic wipes, and a thermometer. This Emergency First Aid Kit has all that plus more. You should also add Tylenol, Benadryl, and Gripe Water.
18. Toothbrush and Toothpaste
If your baby is one and over, he will most likely have a few teeth. My son has twelve. Don’t forget your baby’s toothbrush! Those pearly whites still need to be cleaned. I use the Brush-Baby BabySonic Electric Toothbrush . It makes brushing so much easier.
Don’t forget your baby’s toothpaste and toothbrush cover!
19. Baby-proof items
Outlets are always an issue with babies so you should definitely pack some outlet plug covers to protect your baby. You may also want to consider traveling with cabinet locks and a baby gate depending on where you are staying.
20. Car Sun Shade
A Car Sun Shade is a must for road-trips with your baby. Even if you’re flying to your destination, chances are you’re renting a car. Keep your baby safe from sun rays by placing a car shade on the car window. It will also help with nap time while driving. The Kinder Fluff Car Sun Shade is a great choice for your baby’s car shade. It provides great sun protection and can fit any size window. It’s also easy to use and remove. Plus it’s easy to pack.
21. Travel Packing Cubes
Travel Packing Cubes work wonders when it comes to packing organization. I use Pro Packing Cubes for my son. The Pro Packing Cubes come in various sizes, ranging from 4 to 10 pieces.
I pack and organize my son’s clothes according to each cube. Pants and shorts go in the large cube; shirts and onesies go in the medium size cube; socks and other small items go in the small cube … you get the idea. The Pro Packing Cubes help with consolidating clothes while packing and keeps you organized at your destination.
22. Noise Cancelling head phones
The Baby Banz Earmuffs work well to block out noisy plane environments, especially when our little one is trying to sleep. It’s made particularly for children up to 2 years old. There are a wide array of colors to choose from and they are light and easy to pack. More importantly, they are comfy for your little one to wear while they block out the loud intercom and other noise on the plane.
23. Seasonal/Climate-related Items and Accessories
This all depends on where you’re going. Are you going to the beach or on a ski trip? Is it going to be hot? cold? rainy? Always check the weather before you go and make sure you have what you need.
For example, here’s what you should remember to pack for warmer/tropical climates:
Sunscreen and insect repellent
I always pack the Babyganics Sunscreen and Insect Repellent Combo Pack is great for traveling. It includes the mineral-based sunscreen (SPF 50) with plant-based and organic ingredients for my son. I also use the natural insect repellent if my son needs it. It’s DEET free and made with plant-based ingredients.
Mosquito Net
If you are traveling to a tropical climate, chances are you will encounter mosquitoes. Spare your baby the bites and travel with a mosquito net. The Crocnfrog Mosquito Net works really well to protect your little one from bites while sleeping. Not only can it be used on cribs, but also on pack and plays, and strollers.
Beach Tent
My son loves the Sunba Youth Beach Tent. We also use it in the house sometimes, just for fun. It’s ideal for vacation because it folds up easily and fits right in your suitcase. It is great to use on the beach, but you can also use it while camping out in the mountains or hanging out in a park.
Baby Float
The SwimWays Baby Spring Float is a fun baby float that you can use if you are going to the beach or using a pool. It also folds and up to fit in your suitcase.
24. Books and Toys
Think of it as peace of mind. Travel toys and books are great ways to keep your child entertained during a long flight (or at least most of it). Some of my favorites include teething toys (a life saver if your baby has teeth coming through) and educational books and toys.
Whatever you do, do NOT pack books or toys that are heavy. Also, don’t take more than two or three. You don’t want to be overloaded with toys and books.
Here are some of my favorite travel toys and books (click on each image for more info)
Teething Toys
Travel Toys
Books
25. Appropriate Clothes and Shoes
You definitely need to make sure you pack the right clothes for your little one. Heading to the beach? Make sure you pack swim diapers; swimwear; shorts; t-shirts; and a beach hat to protect your baby from the sun.
Heading to a cabin for the winter? Make sure you pack hats; scarves; sweaters; mittens; boots; and winter jackets.
Pack two outfits per day – don’t forget shirts; onesies; pajamas; socks; shorts/pants; skirts/dresses; sandals and shoes. If you are missing any of these items, Amazon is a great place for quick, last-minute, online shopping, especially if you’re a Prime member.
Click below to start shopping away!
A Few Additional Travel Tips
- Travel light – Before packing everything but the kitchen sink, do your research first and see what items your accommodation offers, or if you can simply pick it up from a store. That said, they are items that you know you and your baby cannot do without. Every baby (and mama) is different, so take some time to figure out your personal must-haves and needs.
- If traveling internationally, don’t forget your baby’s passport (and other required documentation). Get information on how to apply for your U.S. citizen child’s passport here.
- If traveling domestically, don’t forget your toddler’s ID. Birth certificates are sufficient for babies/toddlers in the U.S. If applicable, birth certificates can also serve as documentation to show that babies qualify as a lap infant and can travel for free (children under 2 years of age).
Finally, keep in mind that with all your planning and packing, there is a strong chance that you may still forget something. Guess what? It’s not the end of the world (as long as it’s not the passport or ID). In this day and age, most places have stores where you will likely find what you need if it’s truly an emergency. It will be okay. Again, relax, take a breath, and just enjoy your vacation. You got this!
This page contains affiliate links. I only recommend products that I’ve used and love! Please read my disclosure for more information.