Does less truly mean more? Essential items to pack when traveling with an infant.

When it comes to gear for traveling with an infant, is the 'less is more' philosophy valid?

The answer isn't as clear-cut as it seems. While babies don't require a lot, there are key items that are essential. Additionally, there’s an extended list of nice-to-haves for caregivers, making it tricky to determine what to pack for your journey with a little one.

Continue reading to discover the must-have items for traveling with a baby and what you can skip if you're embracing a minimalist approach.

Essential Gear for Traveling with a Baby

These crucial items shouldn’t be left behind

Make sure to pack these essentials—keep them handy in a carry-on when flying or avoid hiding them in the trunk during road trips.

• A baby carrier that allows for both inward and outward facing.
• A sleep sack if your baby uses one.
• A changing pad for diaper changes.
• A blanket (which can also serve as a swaddle).
• A comfort item or lovey for sleep.
• Essential medications like baby Tylenol.
• Spare clothes for both baby and parents (in case of messes).
• Diapers and wipes.
• Formula and/or snacks, as needed.
• Pacifiers and bibs, if required.

You might also want to consider bringing these items along

Certain items may be beneficial based on your travel style, destination, and family circumstances.

• Stroller clips for extended touring days.
• A compact travel stroller.
• Sunshade and car seat for use with rental vehicles.

Strategies for trimming down your gear

There are numerous ways to lighten your load when traveling with an infant. Here are some helpful tips:

Essential Information About Diapers, Wipes, and Formula

These crucial items should be packed in sufficient quantities to cover your journey, plus a little extra.

However, researching where to buy these supplies at your destination can significantly free up suitcase space. Bring enough for your flight or road trip (plus some extra) and an additional supply for 24 to 36 hours to allow time to get settled and shop after arrival.

When traveling internationally, ensure that your preferred brands (or similar alternatives) are available, and know where to find them, especially for formula. Many countries also have Amazon, so consider ordering supplies in advance to be delivered to your destination. For domestic travel, using services like Amazon or Instacart can help you pack lighter while still having everything you need.

Consider renting baby gear upon arrival at your destination.

Many destinations offer the option to rent baby gear, such as high chairs, cribs, car seats, and strollers, so you don't have to bring everything with you. It's advisable to arrange this rental before your trip to ensure that all necessary items are available and reserved for your arrival.

Almost anything can be a toy

Keep in mind that your baby doesn't require an abundance of toys; nearly anything can serve as a plaything.

You can likely utilize many of your baby's toys from home and discover new items for them to play with in your hotel or vacation rental. Get imaginative, but ensure that any substitute toy is safe—avoid anything breakable or with small parts. Also, make sure to have enough entertainment options for your baby during flights or car rides.

Inquire with your vacation rental or hotel about their baby-friendly offerings.

I've stayed at properties that provide everything from Pack 'n Plays and children's books to bottle warmers and baby utensils. There are even rental companies that focus on catering to families.

Find out what amenities your hotel or rental property provides so you can minimize what you bring. Consider looking for vacation rentals and hotels that specifically offer extras for babies and children. Always confirm with hosts in advance to remind them of your needs.

Think about laundry facilities

I won't book a place for more than a couple of days without laundry options available (and not at steep hotel prices, like $20 per shirt). This often leads me to choose apartment rentals over hotels, or destinations where backpackers can send their laundry out for very affordable rates, such as Thailand.

Staying with family or friends, or locating a laundromat at your destination if needed, can significantly reduce the packing load for your baby and the entire family. Plus, when those inevitable messy situations arise, it's great to be able to clean soiled clothes right away.

When traveling to multiple destinations, choose ones with similar climates.

I recently took a long trip to Chicago, Arizona, and the Dominican Republic during November and December. Packing for this journey was a challenge, especially since my baby was just 4 to 5 months old and growing quickly.

I had to bring everything—winter clothes for Chicago, layers for Arizona (which can be cool at night and hot during the day), and a full summer wardrobe for the Dominican Republic’s heat and humidity—each in different sizes to accommodate my baby's growth.

This trip was far from easy to pack for, and I learned a valuable lesson. Moving forward, I will only plan longer trips to destinations with similar climates.

Utilize mobile apps for night lights, white noise, and baby monitoring.

You can find baby sleep music on Spotify or use apps like Calm for soothing sounds, along with baby monitor apps such as Annie and night light applications. This can help you reduce your packing by leaving the bulky baby monitor and sound machine at home and relying on your phone instead.

Consider shipping your luggage if needed.

This article primarily discusses what you should pack and what can be left behind.

If, despite all these tips, your luggage is still too heavy or unwieldy, consider shipping your luggage to your destination. This can help you avoid high checked bag fees. Alternatively, if you're fine with checking your bags at the airport, you can arrange for them to be delivered to your hotel or vacation rental a few hours after you land, allowing you to forget about them after check-in.

In summary

Packing can feel overwhelming when traveling with a baby, especially for your first major trip together.

Bringing less might actually be more effective when it comes to packing their essentials. While you don’t want to find yourself on a long flight without crucial baby items, it doesn’t mean you need to bring the entire nursery along.

Keep in mind that babies are everywhere, so you can probably find much of what you need at your destination. This is particularly true for larger items like cribs, car seats, or baby bathtubs. Plus, utilizing apps, being resourceful with playtime, and shopping for diapers and wipes upon arrival (or having them delivered) can significantly ease your packing burden when traveling with a baby.