Ever arrive on vacation only to realize you forgot something essential? I’ve been there—and let me tell you, it’s not fun. Thats why having a ultimate packing list for babies and toddlers is so important. We recently took a road trip through France with our 4-year-old and 6-month-old baby, and I was reminded just how inconvenient it is to try hunting down forgotten items, especially when traveling abroad. Unlike the U.S., where you can run into a Target or Walmart, many countries have more limited store options.
To help you avoid the same stress, I’ve put together a tried-and-true packing list for traveling with kids. This list is great for just about any destination—road trip, international flight, or weekend getaway. These are the travel essentials you won’t want to miss!
Baby & Toddler Essentials
- Baby stroller rain cover or umbrella
We had a lot of rain in France, and this was a lifesaver. It kept our baby dry and protected from the wind while we explored. - Portable stroller fan (if traveling in summer)
Keeps the little ones cool during hot days, especially in crowded areas or while waiting in lines. - Diapers and wipes (enough for the first few days)Along with changing mat
You never know if local stores will carry your preferred brand—or if you’ll even find a store right away. Also, swim diapers if it’s summer and you’re planning on going in the water. - Thermometer and children’s fever medication( any prescription medication)
Always better to be safe than scrambling for a pharmacy when your child isn’t feeling well. - Hand sanitizer, band-aids, and antiseptic wipes
- Baby toys and activities
Bring travel-sized toys, teethers, sticker books, coloring sets, and any quiet-time activities that entertain your child. - Baby carrier or sling
- Pacifiers
- Travel documents and passports If traveling international kids and babies need a passport.
Clothing & Comfort
- Weather-appropriate layers
Pack jackets, gloves, and beanies if there’s even a chance of cold weather. We forgot our 4-year-old’s jacket on our last trip and spent half a day hunting down winter clothes—most stores had already stocked spring inventory! - Extra clothes (for everyone)
Accidents and messes happen. Having extra outfits on hand is non-negotiable with kids. - Toiletries for the whole family
Toothbrushes, toothpaste, lotion, shampoo, conditioner, sunscreen, bug spray, hair brush, and hair ties. I also always pack a lufa for each of us—many hotels don’t provide washcloths.
Food & Snacks
- Snacks for the road or flight
Our toddler is a serial snacker. For road trips, I bring apples and bananas (they last well in hotels). For flying, I go with dry snacks like pretzels, crackers, and goldfish. - Water bottles
Staying hydrated is key—and having your own bottle is so much easier than buying drinks constantly. - Baby food or formula ( if needed) It’s good to bring bibs, utilities, bottles, and sippy cups.
Travel Convenience
- Extra bags
I bring a trash bag for dirty laundry so it doesn’t mix with our clean clothes. I also keep a small waterproof bag in the diaper bag for soiled baby clothes—because blowouts happen. - Compact stroller
Lightweight and collapsible strollers are travel game-changers. Easier to carry, store, and maneuver. - Pack and play If you want to bring a pack and play for your little one to sleep in but you can also check with your hotel as they may provide one.
- Travel high chair
Useful Travel Products
- Travel stroller- https://amzn.to/3YYNSUt
- Travel rain cover-https://amzn.to/3SlDuSS
- changing mat- https://amzn.to/4mAiR3i
- Travel laundry bag- https://amzn.to/3SRTgFa
- Formula travel container-https://amzn.to/3SiTjtC
- Travel pack and play- https://amzn.to/43zrfHH
- Stroller fan – https://amzn.to/44Ss80i
Some of the links on this blog are affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products and services that I personally use or believe will add value to my readers.
Final Tip
Create your own personalized baby and toddler packing list based on your family’s specific needs, but don’t skip these basics. A well-packed bag means fewer headaches and more time to actually enjoy your trip.
What would you add to your ultimate travel list for kids? Drop your must-haves in the comments!
check out this helpful link about traveling with children! https://www.tsa.gov/travel/special-procedures/traveling-children
