Prior to having children, packing for a holiday didn’t take too much thinking or planning. It could even be done at the eleventh hour. But when you are packing for a baby – especially if you are travelling abroad or on a longer trip – you need to plan, shop and double check everything. Believe me, a little effort before the holiday will ensure you have a stress-free and fun time. So what to pack when travelling with a baby is essential.
Make sure you make a list before you begin. It’s easy to forget things in the midst of everything else that’s going on. Here’s a quick checklist of some of the things you will need when packing for your baby.
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The essentials
By essentials, I mean the basic items you need and use on a daily basis for your baby. For your convenience, I’ve divided them into three categories:
1. Nappies, nappy sacks and wet wipes. And your nappy bag of course.
2. Your baby’s milk (unless breastfeeding) and all the related paraphernalia, including feeding bottles, steriliser and bottle cleaning brush. If you have started weaning your baby, you will need to think about their food as well; ready-to-eat baby food pouches, snacks and their feeding bowl, spoon and sippy cup.
3. Their pacifier or special blanket or favourite soft toy. Whatever it is that they need for comfort and to aid sleep.
Appropriate Clothing
You will need to pack warmer clothes if going to a colder destination and vice-versa. Make sure to check the weather at your destination during the time you will be visiting, so you can pack the right kind of clothes. If it’s going to be cold, don’t forget a blanket for the pram and footmuffs. If you’re going to be out and about in the chilly weather, it’s important to keep your baby snug and warm in the pushchair.
Take a rain jacket if there is going to be a chance of rain. Alternatively, if you are heading to a sunnier locale, don’t forget the baby friendly sunscreen and sun hat.
Entertainment
Don’t forget to pack some of your baby’s favourite toys and books. Babies often feel disoriented and uncomfortable in new environments. As such make sure they have something familiar to make them feel more at home. Besides, you will want some time to relax and enjoy as well, so take enough things to keep your baby happy and entertained.
If you have a long journey, be it by airplane or road, you will need something to keep your baby entertained in his or her carseat. So remember to keep some toys or a book in your hand-luggage as well.
Medicines and a first-aid kit
We often tend to forget this, but a first-aid kit and some essential medicines are a must to carry with you. There’s a strong likelihood that you might not need it at all, but in the event that your baby falls ill in a foreign country, it’s comforting (and so much less stressful) knowing you have all the medications at hand. And who knows, your little one might just pop their first tooth while on holiday so don’t forget the Calpol and teething gel! First aid kits are essential in dealing with all those everyday accidents and even more serious injuries. Click here to find out more.
The rest of the family
And don’t forget the rest of the family! A kids travel tray is a great idea for long journeys. Remember their essentials too. There’s great advice in this blog post packing hacks for families on the move to help you get organised and enjoy your well-deserved break.
What to pack when travelling with a baby
If you are prepared and organised you will be able to relax and have a wonderful holiday with your little one, creating beautiful memories of these special times. Let me know in the comments below your top tips on what to pack when travelling with a baby.
