Ensure a safe journey with these essential baby travel items

Traveling with a little one can feel overwhelming for new parents. You want to make sure your baby is secure and cozy, but packing the whole nursery isn't practical. At TPG, we've traveled extensively with kids and tested various baby gear to help ease your journey.

Every trip and baby is unique, but these essentials will keep both you and your baby content, whether you travel by plane, train, or car, and even after you arrive at your destination.

GB Pockit Travel Stroller

Weighing just 10.4 pounds and compact enough to fit in most airplane overhead bins, the GB Pockit has earned the title of the world's most compact stroller from Guinness World Records. This travel-friendly stroller folds in just two simple steps, but don't underestimate its size; it boasts a weight capacity of up to 55 pounds and is built to tackle bumpy sidewalks as well as airport moving walkways.

While the GB Pockit doesn't include all the accessories found with other strollers (which contributes to its easy folding), it features a mini sun canopy, an adjustable harness, and a small storage area beneath the seat. It's suitable for babies aged 6 months and older, so parents with newborns will need to hold off before using this impressive little stroller.

Available for purchase: GB Pockit Travel Stroller on Amazon, $199

PAK Reve Wilder Bundle

Before even trying out Pak Reve's travel bags, we were confident they could handle anything parents might encounter, thanks to their design by seasoned travel writer Jordi Lippe-McGraw. You can purchase the full-size backpack, mini backpack, waterproof wristlet, and insulated lunchbox individually, but they seamlessly connect to form a complete travel system, so we suggest getting the full bundle.

Known as The Wilder Bundle, this travel system easily connects and disconnects. Having the complete set on hand during flights or long road trips means every bottle, snack, change of clothes, and toy is easily accessible. You can use only the items you need once you reach your destination, whether it's the mini backpack for a quick outing or the waterproof wristlet for storing dirty clothes after an accident.

The full-size backpack boasts an array of organizational features, including a front pocket that transforms into a jacket sleeve, anti-theft pockets, a laptop compartment, a keychain holder, and exterior pockets for water bottles.

Available for purchase: PAK Reve The Wilder Bundle, $335

Snoozeshade Pack n' Play Cover

The Snoozeshade Pack n' Play Cover is a game changer for parents sharing a hotel room with their baby. No longer do you have to tuck the crib away in a bathroom or closet; now you can create the perfect restful environment for your baby while keeping them nearby.

With your baby peacefully snoozing in their dark, cozy crib under a breathable mesh shade, you can quietly enjoy your vacation. This shade is machine-washable and includes a handy carry case for easy transport.

Available for purchase: Snoozeshade Pack n' Play Cover on Amazon, $59.99

Tula Free-to-Grow Baby Carrier

With countless baby carriers available, the best choice depends on your personal preference, but we recommend the Tula Free-to-Grow Baby Carrier as a reliable option.

This carrier accommodates babies weighing between 7 and 45 pounds, making it suitable for both newborns and toddlers. The front mesh panel helps keep both you and your baby comfortable, while the adjustable straps and waistband provide a secure and cozy fit. Padded shoulder straps add extra comfort, and you can use the carrier in both front and back-carry positions.

Available for purchase: Tula Free-to-Grow Baby Carrier on Amazon, $179

Enovoe Portable Diaper Changing Pad

The Enovoe portable changing pad is perfect for diaper changes on the go. It's compact enough to fit easily into a carry-on bag. Additionally, it features storage for a few diapers, a small pack of wipes, an extra pair of pants, and a onesie just in case.

Despite its slim design, the head area is padded for added comfort for your baby, and it includes an attachable strap to hang it from your stroller while you're out and about. This changing pad is handy for trips to the beach, long road journeys, park outings, or practically anywhere. Plus, it’s unisex and stylish.

Available for purchase: The Enovoe portable pad is on Amazon for $19.99.

Nuby Lightweight High Chair Booster Seat

While finding vacation rentals with high chairs is ideal, it's not always feasible. This Nuby travel booster seat easily attaches to chairs and is quite portable—it can even fit into a checked suitcase. The chair is both soft and sturdy, ensuring that little ones are comfortable while eating.

The straps are robust and provide a secure fit. Just keep in mind that the chair is intended for short periods while your baby is eating, and it's important to never leave your baby unattended in this seat.

Available for purchase: The Nuby Easy Go Booster Seat is available on Amazon for $22.99.

Bumpkins Silicone Grip Dishes

Bumpkins silicone plates are designed to grip any surface, preventing your baby from throwing them on the floor. They're perfect for packing in your bag for dining out at restaurants, hotels, or vacation rentals while traveling. Easy to clean, dishwasher safe, BPA-free, and oven safe, these plates come in a variety of colors and patterns to match your style.

Available for purchase: Bumpkins silicone plates can be found on Amazon, starting at just $10.99.

Bottom line

Deciding what to pack and what to leave behind can be challenging when traveling with your baby. It can also be daunting to choose the right travel stroller, the perfect baby carrier, and all the other essentials you'll need for your trip.

Although these selections are primarily personal and greatly influenced by your family's needs and the specifics of your trip, these products are popular among the frequent-traveling families at TPG.