What I Actually Pack When Traveling with a Baby
Wondering what to pack when traveling with a baby? Here’s my real-life list as a mom of 5, simple, practical baby travel essentials that make trips easier without overpacking.
Planning our Summer Trip with a Baby (and 4 Big Kids)
We’re currently planning our summer 2025 road trip, an 11-hour drive with all five of our kids in our new Ford Transit, including our newest little travel buddy, who’ll be (almost) 5 months old.
As a military family, we’re no strangers to long drives, last-minute packing, or living out of suitcases.
But traveling with a baby (alongside a 4, 5, 7, and 9-year-old) means I’ve learned how important it is to keep things simple, and to only pack what truly matters.
I’ve learned that packing light-ish is key!
The more kids we’ve added, the more I’ve realized that keeping it simple, and only bring what actually matters, makes all the difference.
So here’s what I really pack when we’re traveling with a baby, just the things to keep everyone a little more comfortable on the road.
Baby Travel Must-Haves
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Sleep Essentials
Getting a good night’s sleep with baby is never guaranteed, even at home, but there are a few items I like to bring while traveling with baby to try and make it a little smoother.
I try to mimick our at home sleep set up as much as possible, even on the road.
These are the items that have helped my babies settle in, whether we’re in a hotel, a rental, or tucked into a corner of someone’s guest room.
Travel Crib
After years of hauling around a heavy pack and play, I finally made the switch to the Guava Lotus Travel Crib, and I haven’t looked back. It’s lightweight, easy to set up, and fits right into our rhythm.
You can read my full review of it here if you’re curious.
Other Travel Cribs
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Portable Sound Machine
I used to lug the full-size Hatch around for the big kids, but now I pack the travel one and it’s perfect. Just enough white noise to help baby nap while everyone else is still up and living their loudest life. Small, easy to toss in a bag, and totally worth bringing.
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Baby Monitor
I’ve traveled with a handful of different baby monitors over the years, and for this trip, I’ll be using our Nanit travel system. It comes with its own secure travel case, which makes it super easy to pack, and once we’re settled, I can put baby down for a nap and still enjoy a little moment to myself (hot tub, porch coffee, you know the dream), all while keeping a close eye on him.
We usually stay in Airbnb’s or Vrbo’s when we travel, so baby is always just a room away.
**I never recommend leaving baby alone in a hotel room (even with a monitor) while leaving the premises, no nap or dinner reservation is worth that risk.
But having a monitor that works well gives me so much peace of mind within the space we’re staying. The Nanit does require WiFi to work.
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Lovey
If your baby has a special lovey or blanket, don’t leave it behind, it can make all the difference when sleeping in a new place. My little guy has a soft, snuggly yak that he loves to hold while drifting off. I let him cuddle it until he falls asleep, then quietly take it away for safety. That familiar comfort can be such a game-changer during travel!
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Mom-to-Mom advice: If you baby does have a favorite lovey, buy extras, at least one. Trust me, my oldest lost his favorite monkey on a flight and we were in a panic when we couldn’t find it. I always try to have at least 1 or 2 extras incase the stores quit selling whatever the personal favorite might be.
Feeding on the Go
Nursing While Traveling: My “must-haves” for feeding might look a little different than yours, and that’s okay! I exclusively breastfeed and haven’t used bottles, so this list comes from that perspective.
The main thing I always pack? A nursing cover. I don’t usually use one at home, but when we’re traveling, I like having it on hand, just in case. I never know when or where I’ll need to feed, and sometimes I feel more comfortable having the option to cover up. For me, it’s all about flexibility and feeling confident wherever we are.
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Diapering (Plus Clean-Up)
Diapers + Wipes (road trips vs flying)
When it comes to diapers and wipes, I actually have two different strategies depending on how we’re traveling.
- For road trips: I’m all about convenience. I’ll usually grab a big box of diapers from the store and just toss it in the trunk. We have the space, and it’s one less thing to worry about once we arrive.
- For flights: I try to pack just enough diapers to get us through the flight and the first day at our destination. Diapers take up a lot of space, and I know I can buy more once we land. I’ve never been anywhere that doesn’t sell diapers, and this method saves a ton of room in my suitcase.
No matter how we travel, I always make sure I have more than enough wipes, they’re useful for way more than just diaper changes.
How I Pack Diapers for Easy Access
Whether we’re flying or road-tripping, I always like to have diapers and wipes packed in a way that’s easy to grab, especially when I’m trying to change a baby in an unfamiliar place (hello, airport bathrooms and gas station stops).
You can buy a cute little zipper pouch to keep everything organized in your diaper bag or purse. But honestly? I just use a gallon-sized Ziploc bag. I stick a few diapers and a small pack of wipes inside, and boom, everything I need is in one spot. No digging around in the bottom of a bag while holding a squirmy baby. It’s simple, cheap, and it works.
If you are looking for a bag to keep diapers wet bags are a great option, they’re waterproof, reusable, and you can keep using them after your trip for things like swimsuits or wet clothes at the pool.Wet bags are a great option. I love keeping a wet bag in my diaper bag on the daily or things like accidents or spit ups. I can toss the gross clothes into the bag without worrying about it getting on my other items.
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Travel Changing Pad
I always pack a travel changing pad, it actually came with my diaper bag, it’s a must for road trips. Whether I’m changing the baby in the car, at a rest stop, or in a questionable bathroom along the way, it gives me a clean surface to lay baby down on. It folds up small, wipes clean easily, and has saved me more times than I can count. Definitely one of those things I do recommend packing!
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Dog Bags
This one might sound a little odd, but hear me out, dog poop bags are perfect for travel diaper changes. I keep a roll of them in the diaper bag and they’ve saved me more times than I can count.
Sometimes I’ve had to pull over on the side of the road to change a diaper, and instead of letting the dirty one roll around the car with dirty wipes (ew), I just tie it up in one of these little bags until I can toss it in a trash bin. They take up hardly any space, are super cheap, and they help keep smells contained too.
On-the-Go Baby Essentials
Pacifier Clip
If your baby uses a pacifier, do yourself a favor and invest in a pacifier clip. There’s nothing worse than having a meltdown in the backseat and realizing the paci is lost somewhere under the seat, or worse, on the ground at a gas station. A clip keeps it within reach (and off the floor), which is a win for everyone.
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Blanket
I always pack a lightweight blanket, not for baby to sleep with, but for covering up during the trip. On long drives, the car’s AC can get a little chilly, and airplanes are always unpredictable when it comes to temperature. It’s one of those small things that comes in handy more often than you’d think, whether it’s to keep baby warm, create a little shade, or even use as a quick nursing cover in a pinch.
Stroller + Wagon
When it comes to deciding between packing a stroller or a wagon, it really depends on the kind of adventures we have planned. Most of our kids are older now and prefer walking, but back when I had four under the age of five, and I was traveling solo, the wagon was my go-to. I’d usually have two kids riding and still have room to haul suitcases, backpacks, or even car seats, total lifesaver.
These days, with my second youngest now 4, I lean more toward bringing the stroller. It’s perfect for longer outings when little legs get tired, and I love having the option to push instead of carry. I usually alternate between the stroller and baby carrier depending on the day’s plans.
If we were flying, though? No question, I’d bring the wagon. It’s the best way to keep my wild 4-year-old (and sometimes even the 5-year-old) safely contained and in one place during airport chaos.
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Baby Carrier
When we’re out and about, I usually baby-wear to keep my hands free, whether I’m wrangling the older kids or navigating a crowded spot. I switch between my Solly Baby wrap and my Mabe carrier, depending on the day.
The Solly takes a bit more time to tie, but it’s perfect for those newborn snuggles. The Mabe is a buckle carrier, so it’s quick and easy to get on by myself, and super comfortable for both me and baby. One (or both!) always makes it into my suitcase.
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Baby Chair
This one is not *totally essential* but it’s really helpful.
You could always lay baby down for tummy time or set up a playmat, but when I’m cooking dinner with 4 big kids running around, I like having baby in a safe spot to sit where I can easily see him.
A baby seat isn’t technically a must-have, but for our family, it’s been one of those items that just makes life easier when traveling.
I’ve used our BabyBjorn bouncer around the house in the kitchen, in the bathroom while I shower, outside during backyard playtime, and even on the go for big siblings sports events.
It’s probably, cozy, and allows baby to have a seat and everyone enjoy!
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Another Seat Option:
When my youngest daughter was 4 months ago we did a week at the beach. At the time I had never heard of the Baby Bjourn but we did have the sit-me-up seat. I knew I’d need something to sit her in while I made meals for our family and at the time this worked perfectly.
We no longer have a sit-me-up but they do fold rather compact if you have one and are looking for a cheaper option for baby!
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Travel High Chair
One item that’s not exactly essential but has been incredibly helpful for us is a travel high chair.
I discovered it when we were moving cross-country with our fourth baby. We had sold our house and were in limbo, spending a couple of months bouncing between family before settling into our new place. At the time, my little one was 12 months old and couldn’t sit safely in a regular chair, and lugging around a full-size high chair wasn’t an option.
Since then, I’ve found it super useful in other situations too, especially at fast food places that either don’t have high chairs or have ones you’re not quite sure about (hello, mystery germs). It’s also nice to have a secure spot for baby when you’re juggling bathroom trips or helping the older kids.
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Clothing
Outfits
When it comes to baby clothes on a road trip, I always pack more than I think I’ll need, at least two outfits per day. Babies have a talent for messes: blowouts, spit-up, snack spills, drool, you name it. Having a few extra outfits on hand means you’re not scrambling when something inevitably happens. Better to have it and not need it than need it and be stuck with a onesie that smells like baby food or milk spit up.
Weather-appropriate gear
Before any trip, I always check the weather at our destination so I can pack accordingly. It might sound obvious, but it makes all the difference when you’re traveling with a baby.
If we’re headed somewhere warm, I make sure to bring things like a sun hat, baby-safe sunscreen, and UV-resistant swimwear for beach or pool time. For colder destinations, I’ll pack winter gear, think jacket, hat, mittens, and even a baby snowsuit or overalls if needed.
Basically, I try to think ahead for anything the weather might throw at us, because a comfortable baby makes the whole trip smoother.
Baby Care Essentials
Thermometer
You never know when your baby might spike a fever, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned with five kids, it’s that they always seem to get sick while we’re traveling. I always pack a thermometer just in case. It’s one of those things you don’t want to be scrambling to find when you really need it. Having it on hand gives me peace of mind, especially on longer trips.
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Infant Medicine
If your little one is old enough, I always recommend packing the basics: infant Tylenol, Motrin, and then I always have Benadryl for my bigger kids. You might not need them but if you do, you’ll be so glad you have them. There’s nothing worse than trying to find a pharmacy at midnight in a new city while your baby is miserable. I keep a little travel medicine bag with just the essentials so I’m never caught off guard.
Medicine Pouch
I keep all our baby meds and the thermometer together in one clear zippered pouch. That way, if something comes up (and let’s be honest, with kids, it usually does), I’m not digging through bags or scrambling to remember where I packed what. Everything’s in one place, easy to see, and easy to grab, especially if it’s the middle of the night or we’re on the go.
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On My Radar (But I Haven’t Tried Yet)
Slumberpods + Hiccpop Blackout Tents
Basically a blackout tent for your baby’s sleep space, and people rave about it. It fits over a travel crib and creates a dark little nook so your baby can sleep soundly, even if you’re still up with the lights on. I love the idea (especially for hotel rooms or sharing a space), but honestly, the price point has held me back. Still keeping it on my “maybe someday” list.
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Travel Bathtub
I’ve personally never used a travel tub for my babies but if you’re going on an extended trip, it might be worth considering. I’ve linked a few options in case you want to check them out.
That said, I usually just bring baby into the shower with me and hold and wash them that way. It’s simple, works just fine for us, and saves room in the suitcase!
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Things I Don’t Pack for Baby (and Why):
Baby Seat Mirror: I know these are popular, but I don’t use one. In the event of a crash, they can become a projectile and pose a serious safety risk. I’d rather not take the chance. I keep my focus on the road and trust that if baby really needs me, I’ll pull over and check.
Baby Shoes (for infants who aren’t walking yet): I pack socks or footie outfits and leave the tiny shoes at home unless we’re dressing up for something. Baby shoes are so easy to lose so I leave them off the list of things to pack.
Tons of Toys: I bring a few of the favorite toys, but I try not to overpack toys. Babies are easily entertained by random items anyways.
Mom Favorites for the Road
Although these aren’t directly related to baby, these are a few of the essentials I always travel with and thought maybe you could use them too.
First-Aid Kit: I’ve been using the Keep Going First Aid kits for years. I love their compact little cases and they come with everything you need while traveling. I have one in my van, one in my kitchen, and an extra in my diaper bag. You never know when you’ll need a band-aid. They come in a variety of sizes and prints!
Phone Charger: When you’re traveling with kids, the last thing you want is a dead phone battery, trust me on this one.
On one road trip, I assumed the USB port in our vehicle worked to charge my phone. Spoiler: it didn’t. I didn’t realize it until my battery was almost dead, I was solo with four kids, in an unfamiliar area, and full-on panic mode hit.
To make things worse, I had packed a backup battery pack… but it didn’t show the charge level. I had assumed it was fully charged. It wasn’t.
Ever since then, I only use battery packs that show the exact percentage of charge left. It gives me peace of mind and ensures I’m never caught off guard again. Because when you’re traveling with kids, your phone isn’t just for scrolling, it’s your GPS, emergency line, camera, and sanity saver.
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Barf Bags: This one might sound weird, but hear me out. Please get yourself a stash of barf bags and toss them in your glove compartment. I used to think I’d never actually need them… until I did. And then I needed them again. And again.
Whether it’s motion sickness, too many snacks, or just one of those “of course this is happening now” moments, having a barf bag ready means I can focus on safely pulling over, not on panic-cleaning the car or digging for a grocery bag that may or may not have holes.
They take up almost no space, and when you need one, you really need one. Trust me, this is one of those things you’ll be ridiculously glad you packed.
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Plasti bags/trash bags: All those Target bags I hoard? Yep, they come with me on every road trip. I use them as liners for our little car trash bin, but honestly, they come in handy for everything, wet clothes, snack wrappers, surprise messes, and the occasional “we’ll deal with this when we get there” mystery item.
I always pack a small stash because something always comes up. They’re lightweight, take up no space, and you’ll never regret having a few extras on hand.
Small Trash Cans:In addition to packing a stash of grocery bags, I love having a small trash can in the car, especially the kind that hangs off the back of a headrest. It’s such a simple thing, but it keeps the car from becoming a full-blown disaster zone.
Snack wrappers, wipes, receipts, mystery crumbs, I can toss it all in without cluttering up the cupholders or floor. When you’re road-tripping with kids, anything that helps keep things even slightly more organized is a win in my book.
Keep it Simple, Mama
If you’re planning a road trip with your little one, you can check out my full Road Trip Essentials List for everything I pack to make travel smoother.
But above all, keep it simple. You don’t need to bring everything you own. This list is here to help you feel prepared, not overwhelmed.
And remember, if you forget something or realize you need an extra item, chances are you can grab it once you arrive.
Packing for a baby can feel like a lot, but you’ve got this.
Deep breaths, a good playlist (or podcast!), and a stocked snack bag go a long way.
Happy travels, mama!
For more on motherhood, cozy recipes, family-friendly travel, homemaking tips, and seasonal inspiration, you can find me over on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube. I’d love to have you along!
P.S. Don’t forget to save this post so it’s easy to find the next time you’re getting ready for a trip with your little one!
Last update on 2026-02-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
