By Hustle Hack 
Traveling with young children can be both exciting and challenging. Packing efficiently for infants and toddlers requires careful planning to ensure you have everything you need for a smooth trip. This article provides essential packing tips for parents traveling with infants and toddlers, including helpful examples and links to related resources to improve your packing strategy.
Packing for Infants
1. Diapering Essentials
- Diapers: Pack enough diapers for the duration of your trip, plus a few extras for emergencies. Consider using Honest Diapers for their eco-friendly options.
- Wipes: Bring a full pack of wipes for diaper changes and cleaning messes.
- Changing Pad: A portable changing pad makes diaper changes easier and more hygienic.
- Diaper Rash Cream: Don’t forget to pack a small tube of diaper rash cream.
2. Feeding Supplies
- Formula/Breast Milk: If you’re bottle-feeding, bring enough formula or breast milk for the trip. Medela offers great breast milk storage solutions.
- Bottles and Nipples: Pack a few bottles and extra nipples.
- Baby Food: Bring jars or pouches of baby food, along with a spoon.
- Burp Cloths: Pack several burp cloths to clean up after feedings.
- Portable High Chair: A portable high chair or booster seat can be useful for feeding your infant on the go.
3. Clothing and Comfort
- Clothing: Pack enough clothes for daily changes, plus a few extras. Include weather-appropriate outfits.
- Sleepwear: Bring comfortable sleepwear and a sleep sack or swaddle blanket.
- Blankets: Pack a couple of lightweight blankets for warmth and comfort.
- Comfort Items: Bring your child’s favorite pacifier, teething toy, or blanket to provide comfort during the trip.
4. Health and Safety
- First Aid Kit: Include baby-specific items like infant pain reliever, a digital thermometer, and a nasal aspirator. Check out WebMD’s First Aid Kit Essentials for more tips.
- Hand Sanitizer: Keep a travel-sized hand sanitizer in your diaper bag.
- Baby Carrier: A baby carrier or sling can make navigating airports or attractions easier.
Packing for Toddlers
1. Diapering and Toileting
- Diapers/Pull-Ups: Depending on your toddler’s potty training progress, bring diapers or pull-ups.
- Wipes: Pack a travel-sized pack of wipes for quick clean-ups.
- Portable Potty: If your toddler is potty training, a portable potty can be very helpful.
2. Feeding and Snacks
- Snacks: Pack a variety of healthy snacks like fruit pouches, crackers, and cheese sticks. Websites like Healthy Little Foodies have great snack ideas.
- Water Bottle: Bring a spill-proof water bottle to keep your toddler hydrated.
- Utensils and Plates: Pack a set of toddler-friendly utensils, a sippy cup, and a travel plate.
3. Clothing and Comfort
- Clothing: Pack enough outfits for daily changes, including extra sets in case of spills or accidents.
- Shoes: Bring comfortable shoes for walking and a pair of sandals or flip-flops.
- Blankets and Stuffed Animals: Bring your toddler’s favorite blanket and stuffed animal for comfort.
4. Entertainment and Activities
- Toys: Pack a few favorite toys to keep your toddler entertained. Avoid toys with small parts that could be lost easily.
- Books: Bring a couple of board books or picture books.
- Tablet or Portable DVD Player: Load up with their favorite shows or movies for long car rides or flights. Check out Common Sense Media for age-appropriate content recommendations.
5. Health and Safety
- First Aid Kit: Include toddler-specific items like band-aids, toddler pain reliever, and a thermometer. Red Cross First Aid Kit Checklist offers a comprehensive list.
- Sunscreen and Hat: Protect your toddler’s skin with a high-SPF sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Child Locator Device: Consider a child locator device or GPS tracker for crowded places.
Final Tips for Packing
- Make a Checklist: Write down everything you need to pack and check items off as you go.
- Pack in Advance: Start packing a few days before your trip to avoid last-minute stress.
- Stay Organized: Use packing cubes or separate bags to keep items organized and easily accessible.
By packing thoughtfully and efficiently for your infants and toddlers, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip for the whole family. Preparation is key to handling any challenges that come your way and making the most of your travel experience.
Related Sites for Further Reading
- Honest Diapers
- Medela
- WebMD First Aid Kit Essentials
- Healthy Little Foodies
- Red Cross First Aid Kit Checklist
- Common Sense Media