Packing list for traveling with babies and toddlers

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The other day my son calculated that he spent more than a year of his life – of 11,5 years so far –traveling. He flew overseas 20 times, flew within the North America half a dozen times. I flew with 2 kids, a toddler and a baby, alone when my daughter was 6 months old and my son was 3. Countless road trips, camps, and mini getaways later packing has been a second nature. I’ve learned to pack lighter and quicker. I also learned that a packing list is a must no matter how experienced you are, because a mom – and a dad – has 1001 things on her mind before getting on the road and can’t really rely on her memory.

Packing for babies is quite tricky. You have to pack basics with you but also you can find/buy most if not all of the toiletries at your destination. So you don’t have to pack a full inventory for the duration of your travel.

Then there is baby gear such as car seat or stroller. In most metropolitan cities, rental car companies carry rental car seats as well as booster seats. Most hotels with 3 stars and up have baby cribs. In addition, there are rental companies which provide strollers, playpens etc. for traveling families. Then all you need to pack is a change of clothes, few diapers and wet wipes and the favorite teddy bear and/or blankie and you are ready to go.

Here is the essential packing list you can use when traveling with a baby and a toddler. Scroll down for the printable list.

Baby Gear

Stroller: You can rent strollers at your destination. In my post about our trip to Rome, I mentioned that we rented our strollers and were very pleased with the service.
Car seat, booster: Always call your rental car company in advance to add the car seat or booster to your rental.
Sling, baby carrier: My pouch sling was an indispensable item for traveling with my children when they were babies and toddlers. I carried my daughter until she was 5.
Changing pad
Baby monitor: You might need a monitor if you are staying in a
Travel potty: My favorite folding potty is as light and small as it gets.
Breast Pump:
Pacifiers (if used)
Extra plastic bags, zipped bags
Nursing cover: Or a blanket, or a scarf
Waterproof sheet lining: I always carried waterproof sheet lining in case an accident happened.

Electronics

Phones, tablets & chargers
Camera, camcorder & extra batteries, chargers
Headphones
Headphone splitter (for multiple kids)
Outlet adapter for international travel: You can find adapters at the airports but they are much more expensive than what you’d pay at a regular store.

Clothing

Daytime clothes
Bedtime clothes, pajamas
Underwear
Socks
Rain gear
Footwear: Booties, shoes
Blankets
Swaddle or sleep blanket

Summer essentials

Hats
Goggles, sunglasses
Swimsuit, Swim diaper
Sunscreen, insect repellent, after bite
Beach toys

Winter essentials

Hats, mittens, scarves
Bunting, Snowbib
Car seat / Stroller cover
Boots

Feeding

Formula
Jarred food, dry snacks
Feeding bottles, nipples
Sippy cups
Bowls, utensils
Thermos container: If you need to carry around hot water to warm the bottle or warm food for your toddler.
Bibs

Personal Care / Toiletries