Traveling with a baby and toddler can feel overwhelming, but with the right essentials and a little preparation, it can be a smooth and even enjoyable experience. Whether flying with a baby and toddler, taking a road trip, or juggling both simultaneously, being prepared makes all the difference.
After multiple trips with little ones (and endless hours of research), I’ve put together the best tips and travel essentials that make traveling easier—not just for your baby and toddler, but for you too.
The Busy Mom’s Guide to Traveling with a Baby and Toddler: Stress-Free Essentials You’ll Love
Before You Go: Packing Smart for Traveling with a Baby and Toddler
As much as I’d love to be a minimalist traveler, I’m definitely Team Overpacker. That said, I’ve learned that packing efficiently is key when traveling with kids. You want to bring everything you need without overloading yourself.
Here’s what I’ve found to be the most helpful travel essentials for both little ones and parents.
Diaper Bag & Carry-On Essentials
Most airlines allow one diaper bag in addition to your carry-on and personal item, but always check airline policies in advance. Whether flying or road-tripping, having a well-stocked, organized bag makes a huge difference.
Diaper Bag Must-Haves
- Diapers and wipes (always pack extra for delays!)
- Changing pad (I love using disposable ones for travel)
- Pre-packed “go bag” with diapers, wipes, spare outfit, and travel-size diaper cream
- Travel-size toiletries (hand sanitizer, baby lotion, pacifier wipes)
- Formula, bottles, or breastfeeding accessories
- Easy snacks (crackers, fruit pouches, snack catchers)
- Water bottles and electrolytes
- Entertainment (small toys, board books, sticker packs, toddler-friendly headphones)
- Noise-canceling headphones
- White noise machine
- First Aid Kit (TSA-friendly version with baby-safe essentials)
How I Pack for Travel with a Baby and Toddler
- Kid’s backpacks: “Go” bag, snacks, water bottles, entertainment, lap trays, noise-canceling headphones
- Our backpacks: Hand sanitizer, cleaning wipes, extra snacks, water, our own entertainment, airplane tray pockets
- Carry-on suitcase: Breastfeeding accessories, extra diapers & wipes, spare outfits, first aid kit, and anything I’d never check (medicine, vitamins, etc.)
One of my biggest travel tips? Wipe every single surface on the plane before you sit—tray tables, armrests, walls, windows, seatbelts. Just trust me on this.
Best Travel Gear for Babies and Toddlers
Having the right travel gear makes a huge difference in how smoothly your trip goes.
Top Baby & Toddler Travel Essentials
- Lightweight travel stroller: I love the UppaBaby Minu V2 (or V3 when available!). Their travel bag is a must—if you register it, UppaBaby guarantees repairs if anything breaks!
- Baby carrier: I swear by my Wildbird Aerial for hands-free travel.
- Lightweight travel car seat: We use the Cosco Scenera (super light and affordable), but we also love the Doona for the car seat + stroller combo.
- TushBaby: One of my favorite travel buys! If Ella refuses the stroller, this makes carrying her so much easier.
- Hiccapop Omni Booster: AMAZING. Most places we stay don’t have a kid-friendly seating option. This seat is great because you can use it on the floor, strap it to a chair, or bring it to restaurants for an easy, portable high chair solution.
- Amma Cocoon: One of my favorite finds for breastfeeding in public, especially on airplanes. It gives you full coverage without feeling restrictive—perfect when you’re sitting next to a stranger and need a little extra privacy.
- A travel blanket: Great for playtime, especially on hotel floors!
Find my top baby and toddler travel gear here: Shop My Travel Essentials.
At the Airport & Security: Flying with a Baby and Toddler
Navigating the airport with little ones requires extra planning, but these tips will help.
Airport Security & TSA Tips
- Use a baby carrier to keep your hands free during security.
- Gate-check your stroller so you have it up until boarding.
- Breast milk, formula, and baby food are TSA-approved—just separate them from other liquids.
Should You Buy a Seat for Your Baby or Toddler?
While babies under two can fly as lap infants, I highly recommend buying them their own seat. It’s safer, and it makes the trip so much easier.
If purchasing a seat:
- FAA-approved car seats like the Cosco Scenera or Doona are allowed on flights.
- Learn how to install it before your trip.
- Let little ones move around every 2-3 hours.
Keeping Kids Entertained on the Flight
- For babies: Soft toys, pacifiers, teething rings, and baby-safe snacks.
- For toddlers: Sticker books, coloring packs, iPad/tablet with kid-friendly shows, and surprise toys to keep them engaged.
Road Trips with a Baby and Toddler
Long drives can be challenging, but they can be way more manageable with the right setup.
Planning for a Smooth Car Ride
- Drive during nap times when possible.
- Pack a car organizer + cooler for easy snack access.
- Plan rest stops every 2-3 hours for diaper changes and stretching.
Keeping Kids Happy in the Car
- Baby: Clip-on toys, soft books, and white noise.
- Toddler: Water Wow books, activity trays, pre-loaded playlists, and surprise toys.
Sleep Setup While Traveling
Good sleep on the go can be tricky, but these essentials can help!
- Portable blackout curtains: Blocks light for better sleep.
- White noise machine: Helps drown out unfamiliar sounds.
- Favorite sleep items: Lovey, pacifier, or sleep sack.
- SlumberPod and SlumberTot: Perfect for room-sharing!
Should You Bring or Rent a Pack ‘n Play?
Totally up to you! I prefer to bring my own, if it fits. Otherwise:
- If driving, bringing your own is great for consistency.
- If flying, check if your hotel/Airbnb provides one.
- You can also rent one from BabyQuip if needed!
Where to Find the Best Travel Gear
For a stress-free trip, having the right essentials makes all the difference. Check out my must-haves for traveling with a baby and toddler here: Shop My Travel Essentials.
Stress-Free Traveling with a Baby and Toddler
With the right prep and gear, traveling with a baby and toddler doesn’t have to be stressful!
- Pack smart: Keep essentials within easy reach.
- Stay flexible: Loose plans make for happier travel days.
- Prioritize entertainment & comfort: A busy, well-fed child is a happy child. Adults too!
A little preparation now means a smoother trip for everyone!
Affiliate Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I personally use and love. Thank you for supporting my family!
Leave a Reply