As any parent knows, traveling with baby presents its own unique set of challenges and opportunities. Whether you’re planning on flying across the country or just heading out of town for the weekend, packing for your little one can be tough—especially if it’s your first time out of the house with an infant in tow. To make things easier, we asked our friends at Carter’s, experts in the field of baby clothing, what they recommend when it comes to packing list must-haves. Here are 9 things to pack when traveling with baby, according to Carter’s.
Clothes
Plan for your baby’s comfort, safety, and happiness on the road. Take a car seat, because there are plenty of laws that require you to do so. Verify that each buckle is firmly fastened. The US government has a website with a list of the rules for air travel with babies.
Diapers and wipes
Before your baby is born, you may think that you’ll never need to pack diapers and wipes. But as soon as your little one arrives, you’ll find yourself running through them like crazy. Diapers are a necessity for any travel with a baby, so it’s best to be prepared for them.
Diapers come in disposable and cloth varieties, with each option having its pros and cons.
Feeding supplies
It’s always a good idea to have some of these essentials on hand before your trip.
-Feeding supplies: formula, bottles, pump and accessories like nipples and bottle brushes.
-Formula: you might want to bring a few days worth in a small container so you can prepare one bottle at a time without dirtying a bunch of dishes.
-Bottles: if you’re traveling with breastfed baby, it’s not necessary to pack bottles unless they’re pumped milk.
Toys and books
If you’re traveling with your baby, you might want to pack some of their favorite toys and books. This way, they’ll be occupied and happy when you’re on the plane or waiting for your luggage at the airport.
Blankets and pillows
Pack a few blankets and pillows. Babies like to be able to snuggle up with something soft and, when they are tired, they can rest their head on the pillow. A blanket is also helpful if the baby falls asleep in the car or stroller because it can help them stay cozy while you’re on the go.
Baby carrier
It is important to pack a baby carrier when traveling with your little one. This will make it easier to get around and help them feel more secure while they explore the new sights and sounds. There are many different types of baby carriers, so you should do some research before deciding which one is best for you.
Stroller
A stroller is a must-have for travel. It will provide your baby with the comfort and safety they need while you’re on the go. The best strollers are those that can recline to a flat position, making them perfect for napping in transit or when you’re trying to get through an airport at the end of a long day.
First-aid kit
A good first-aid kit will come in handy when you’re on the go. If you’re not sure what to pack, here are some suggestions: Bandages and antiseptic wipes; Thermometer; Infant Tylenol (acetaminophen) for fever and pain relief; Earache drops for pain relief for ear infections; Saline nose drops for babies with stuffy noses.
Extra clothes for you
All babies are different, but it’s always a good idea to bring clothes for yourself as well. If you’re wearing a new outfit and it gets spit up on, you’ll want to change into something else before meeting friends. It’s also helpful to have a spare outfit for your baby in case they have an accident or need to change before naptime or bedtime. They don’t call them wet diapers for nothing!
