Tips for packing and preparing for travel with an infant

Is this your first adventure with a new baby? Or perhaps you've traveled with your little one before, but want to pack more effectively this time.

Knowing how to pack and prepare for a trip with a baby can be challenging. Babies change so fast that predicting their needs—especially for longer trips—can be tricky.

Besides usual packing considerations like your destination's weather or luggage limits, it can be unclear what you can bring on board or need to check for your infant. Here’s our guidance to help you prepare, pack, and travel smoothly with your baby.

Select your accommodations carefully and pack accordingly.

When traveling by car, you can conveniently pack a travel crib and other bulky baby gear.

If you're flying, selecting the right accommodation is crucial for lighter packing, which is the aim. Carrying an infant is challenging enough—staying in a place that provides baby essentials allows you to leave extra items behind.

Inquire with your hotel about the availability of cribs or other baby amenities, as well as laundry services or facilities for personal use. Some hotels might even offer an extra fridge for milk storage upon request.

Often, a home rental can be a better option than a hotel if you choose wisely. Airbnb allows you to filter searches for properties with features like "crib" and "high chair." You can also message hosts to ask about additional baby-friendly items they might have.

For instance, I recently used filters on an Airbnb search in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, to find rentals that included a crib, high chair, and laundry facilities. I selected a place that offered not just those, but also a bottle sterilizer, warmer, and several other baby-friendly items, helping me pack less.

Some rentals I've stayed in even offered baby toys, books, and utensils. The key is to communicate. Don't hesitate to reach out and confirm the availability of equipment with hosts as you pack. You can also request that everything is set up and ready for your baby upon arrival.

Having access to a washer and dryer is crucial since babies often have accidents or leaks. Being able to do laundry allows you to pack fewer outfits. Also, if your rental isn't a standalone house or is on an upper floor, check for an elevator. Navigating a five-story walk-up with a stroller, shopping bags, and a baby can be quite a challenge.

Contact your airline to clarify the rules.

Depending on your airline, fare class, and destination, the regulations for traveling with an infant may differ.

These regulations can also change based on whether you've purchased a lap ticket or a separate seat for your baby. In most cases, airlines permit travelers with infants to gate-check a stroller or buggy, and some may allow a car seat as well. Check with your airline in advance to understand baggage rules for your little one to avoid surprises at the airport or extra fees, especially when flying with low-cost carriers like Ryanair or Spirit.

Planning to fly with an infant in a car seat? Ensure it's certified for air travel. You might also consider requesting a bassinet for your baby, if the airline offers one (just be mindful of the weight restrictions). Opt for an aisle seat to make it easier to stand with your baby.

Invest in baby gear that’s travel-friendly.

Having a dedicated foldable travel stroller will come in handy beyond just flying. It's ideal for navigating a new city. Other essential travel baby items to consider bringing include:

• Travel diaper backpack.
• Portable changing pad.
• Travel car seat.
• A protective bag for your car seat or stroller to prevent damage when checked.
• Portable baby monitor.
• Baby carrier or wrap.
• Swaddle or baby blankets.
• Inflatable bathtub.
• Pack 'n Play or travel crib.
• Travel neck pillow (great for feeding your baby).
• Baby chair strap.
• Disposable bottle liners.
• Disposable bibs.
• Portable blackout shades for travel cribs or strollers.

Buy (or preorder) diapers, formula, and other essentials at your destination.

Depending on the length of your trip and your destination, estimate (and it's always safer to overestimate) how many diapers you’ll need during your travels.

If your baby has a preferred formula or baby food, make sure to find out where to purchase it at your destination. Services like Amazon and other delivery options can help you order these items—don’t forget, these services are available internationally too. You might also want to compare ingredients to see if you can find a similar formula or food, reducing the need to fill your suitcase with diapers or formula.

Don’t stress if you forget baby socks or other basic items. Babies are everywhere, so you should be able to find many everyday essentials wherever you go. However, if your baby needs something specific, it’s wise to pack it just in case.

Many destinations around the world have companies that rent out baby gear. Do some research ahead of time to find out where and how to access these important items, especially when traveling abroad.

Pack the essentials (and some extras) in your carry-on.

Always include your baby's crucial items in your carry-on. This should cover comfort items like their favorite toy or pacifier, along with extra outfits for both you and your baby (in case of any wardrobe mishaps). Additionally, make sure to pack sufficient food, diapers, and other necessities to get through the trip, plus a little extra for potential delays or cancellations.

Consider bringing the following items in your carry-on bag:

• Spare clothing for both you and your baby.
• Layered clothing or blankets (as airplane temperatures can vary).
• Pacifier and clip (with a backup).
• Comfort toy(s) or blanket.
• Additional diapers.
• Formula.
• Breast pump.
• Snacks for you and your baby.
• Baby wipes.
• Sanitizing wipes.
• Bottles.
• Extra bibs.
• Ziploc bags for storing soiled clothes (or a reusable, waterproof bag).
• Baby Tylenol or any infant medications.
• A basic first aid kit.
• Small toy(s).

The remaining baby items, such as extra clothing, blankets, and more, can be placed in your checked luggage. If you're checking multiple bags, distribute your baby's items across different suitcases. This way, you’ll be prepared if the airline misplaces one of your bags.

Understand the security regulations and have a backup plan in place.

During a recent conversation with Iberia Airlines, I learned that I could carry "reasonable quantities" of formula and breast milk through security. However, the representative warned that sometimes certain agents may not permit these items through security at Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD). Really?

Security checks, Transportation Security Administration agents, and customs officials can vary, and each country, airport, or airline may have distinct regulations. It's wise to call ahead and be ready for unexpected situations. If you use formula, pre-mix your bottles but also pack extra powder for preparing new bottles on board.

If you're pumping, consider bringing both a hand pump and an electric one, in case you have limited access to power or encounter issues with electrical outlets or voltage when traveling internationally.

Arriving at the airport early is always beneficial since you may not breeze through security as easily as before having a baby. Everything takes longer with an infant, so that extra time can help ensure a stress-free travel experience. Take advantage of early boarding to give yourself more time to settle in. If your airport offers a family security line, be sure to use it.

Ensure you are aware of any ongoing COVID-19 regulations.

As mask mandates, COVID-19 testing, and entry or vaccination requirements continue to change globally, stay informed about what you need to know and bring for your baby to reach your destination (and return home). It's crucial to understand whether you'll need masks for your 2-year-old or need to present proof of a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival or re-entry into the U.S. when traveling abroad.

Keep in mind that airline staff also find it challenging to stay updated on these fluctuating rules. If you know about recent changes or specific regulations, bring along evidence and any necessary documentation in case you face issues during boarding.

Make photocopies of essential documents and always carry extras. I dislike traveling with paper documents, but having them can be crucial for getting through customs, boarding, or avoiding being stuck at the airport. This is especially important if your phone battery dies or you lose service for any reason. While being denied boarding is always stressful, it’s even more challenging with a baby in tow.

Install the appropriate apps.

Mobile phone apps can assist you in predicting your needs and ensuring comfort for both your baby and yourself while traveling.

A white noise app is essential for improving your baby's sleep — which in turn benefits parents' rest — allowing you to leave the white noise machine at home. Nightlight apps can also be quite useful during your travels.

Most modern baby monitors can connect to your phone, enabling you to use an app for video access to your baby, eliminating the need for a separate monitor.

Parents might find tracking apps for sleep and feeding particularly valuable during travel, especially when adjusting to new time zones. A general packing app can help you remember what to bring for your baby and the whole family. Ensure these apps are usable offline in case you need them while flying.

Remember to bring their passport.

It may seem obvious, but don’t forget your baby's passport when you travel.

Check the identity and consent document requirements, as these vary by country, especially if your partner isn't traveling with you. If you have older children, ensure their passports are up-to-date, as U.S. children's passports expire after just five years.

Keep your composure.

Traveling with a baby can feel overwhelming, but once you get accustomed to it, the process of packing, preparing, and traveling becomes second nature. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed and graciously accept assistance when offered.

When things go awry, try to stay calm (after all, your baby can sense your emotions) — you'll manage it. What feels like a disaster in the moment (such as a major diaper blowout on a plane) will eventually become a memorable story to tell.

In summary

If you're uncertain, pack enough baby supplies to last a few extra days or in case of flight delays, but avoid overpacking. Ensure you are well-informed about all regulations regarding your travel, from necessary documents to what baby items you can take through airport security. By following these tips, your packing and traveling will be a much more pleasant experience for the whole family.