Going on vacation with a baby? It might sound like a challenge, but with a well-organized baby travel checklist, it’s absolutely doable. As long as you have everything you need—diapers, baby food, a first aid kit, travel documents—you can enjoy a stress-free trip. A smart baby packing list helps you stay organized, making sure you don’t forget anything important.
We’ve learned from experience just how well this can work. Our eldest took her first big trip at only three months old, traveling by car through the Czech Republic and Poland for six weeks. Our second child joined us on a trip to southern England and Wales at just two months old. And at six months, he even spent half a year traveling by camper through Portugal, Spain, and Morocco. From what we’ve seen, babies are actually great little travelers—they don’t need much and they sleep a lot!
With the right preparation, traveling with a baby isn’t stressful—it’s actually a lot of fun. And with this checklist, you’ll be ready to go!
Travel Preparations with a Baby
Planning a trip with your baby? Good preparation is everything. The last thing you want is to arrive at your destination only to find out that diapers are impossible to find or that your baby’s passport is still stuck in processing. With this handy checklist, you’ll avoid unnecessary stress and head off on your trip fully prepared.
Research Your Destination
Did you know that in some countries, disposable diapers are hard to find? In Vietnam, for example, many parents practice early potty training, so diapers aren’t as widely available. Definitely something you’d want to know beforehand!
Also, check whether the tap water is safe for preparing baby formula and whether you’ll need a mosquito net at your destination. If you’re heading to a city with narrow streets or lots of stairs, a baby carrier or sling might be far more practical than a stroller. So our best advice is to research your destination well on all these kind of practicalities.
Be Ready for Medical Emergencies
No one wants to deal with a sick baby on vacation, but it’s always best to be prepared. Pack a small first aid kit with band-aids, a thermometer, and baby paracetamol. It’s also a good idea to check how your travel insurance covers medical expenses and to find out where the nearest hospital is—just in case.
For minor ailments or prescription refills, you probably don’t want to spend hours searching for a doctor. That’s where Mobidoctor.eu comes in handy. It allows you to quickly get online medical advice from a doctor and even receive prescriptions, no matter where you are in the world.
Sort Out Travel Documents Early
Even babies need a passport or ID card, when traveling outside their home country. Make sure to apply for it well in advance, as processing times can vary.
And if one parent is traveling alone with the baby? Some countries require a parental consent form for that. If you’re flying, be aware that certain airlines may also ask for a birth certificate for babies—check this ahead of time to avoid any surprises at the airport.
Plan Your Transport Wisely
Long journeys with a baby require extra planning. If you’re driving, a proper car seat is essential, along with a sunshade to keep the back seat cool and comfortable.
Flying? Check whether you can take your stroller all the way to the gate, and see if it’s possible to book an extra seat for added comfort. Also, be sure to pack enough food, diapers, and toys to keep your baby happy and entertained along the way.
Consider Sleep Routines
New surroundings and a different routine can take some getting used to for your little one. Bringing a familiar sleeping bag and a favorite stuffed animal can help your baby feel at home.
If you’re traveling to a different time zone, try adjusting sleep schedules slightly before you leave to ease the transition. And if your baby struggles to sleep in a new bed, investing in a travel crib might be a game-changer.
The Ultimate Baby Travel Checklist
A well-organized packing list for your baby’s first trip will save you a lot of stress and ensure you don’t forget anything essential. Think about clothing, diapers, food, and sleeping gear, but also travel documents and a first aid kit. By planning ahead, you’ll pack smarter and enjoy a more relaxed trip.
- Clothing:
- Onesies (short and/or long sleeves)
- T-shirts
- Long and short pants
- Sweaters or cardigans
- Socks
- Pajamas
- Swimwear (preferably UV-protective)
- Sun hat or cap
- Shoes, slippers, and/or water shoes
- Jacket
- Sunglasses
- Care Essentials:
- Diapers
- Baby wipes
- Diaper cream
- Muslin cloths
- Washcloths
- Hooded towel or bath towel
- Baby shampoo and body wash
- Baby oil or lotion
- Universal sink stopper
- Toothbrush and baby toothpaste
- Nail scissors or file
- Sunscreen (minimum SPF 50)
- Aftersun
- Thermometer
- First aid kit (including band-aids, disinfectant)
- Tick remover
- Paracetamol suppositories
- Saline nasal spray
- Vitamin D (and K if needed)
- Feeding Essentials:
- Baby formula or breastfeeding supplies (such as a breast pump)
- Bottles and nipples
- Bibs
- Baby tableware and cutlery
- Sippy cup or spill-proof cup
- Baby food (jars, fruit pouches)
- Bottle warmer
- On the Go:
- Stroller or buggy
- Baby carrier or sling
- Car seat
- Sunshade for the car
- Travel toys
- Diaper bag
- Bags for dirty clothes
- Sleeping Essentials:
- Travel crib or bassinet
- Sleeping bag
- Sheets and fitted crib sheets
- Mosquito net
- Favorite stuffed animal(s)
- Baby monitor
- Nightlight
- Others:
- Passport or ID card
- Health insurance documents
- Toys and (story)books
- Play mat or travel blanket
- Inflatable armbands or swim float
- Swim diapers
- Beach tent or UV-protective tent
This blog was created in collaboration with Mobidoctor.eu.
