How to Travel Light With Baby

Last updated on December 28th, 2023 at 09:53 pm

Parents, you know traveling with a baby can be a daunting task. From packing enough diapers to ensuring you have everything you need to keep your little one entertained, comfortable, and safe during the trip, there’s a lot to think about. It’s no wonder many parents end up overpacking. 

Since extra bags are the last thing you need when you already have a baby in tow, let’s talk about how to travel light with baby.

How to Travel Light With Baby

Baby Gear

When it comes to baby gear, there are a few items that you might think you need but can do without:

• Baby carrier: While a baby carrier can be helpful for hands-free travel, it’s not a necessity. If you’re traveling with an infant, you can opt to use your newborn car seat as a carrier. These car seats are also compatible with many types of strollers. 
• Traditional stroller: Strollers are a must, but skip the bulky stroller. Travel systems are a better option because they’re multifunctional and convenient — a stroller and car seat in one, these systems are perfect for moms on the go.
• High chair: A high chair is another piece of baby gear parents often think they need when traveling with toddlers. But, most restaurants will have high chairs available for use. If you’re staying in an Airbnb or vacation rental, consider bringing a portable high chair that clamps onto a table or a booster seat that straps onto a chair.

The Diaper Bag

Every mom knows a diaper bag is essential when traveling with a little one. However, it’s easy to go overboard and overpack it with too many items. 

When the goal is to travel light with baby, focus on the must-haves.

Clothing

Babies go through lots of diapers, and lots of changes of clothes, but that doesn’t mean you need to pack their entire wardrobe. Here are some items that you can leave behind:

• Fancy outfits: Unless you’re attending a special event, your baby doesn’t need a fancy outfit. Stick to comfortable clothes that are easy to change.
• Shoes: Babies don’t need shoes until they start walking, so you can leave them at home.
• Too many outfits: Pack a couple outfits for each day, but don’t go overboard. 

Feeding

Feeding a baby on the go can be a challenge, but there are some items that you can leave at home, such as:

• Bottle warmer: While a bottle warmer can be convenient, it’s not necessary. You can warm a bottle by placing it in a cup or bowl of hot water.
• Too many bottles: Pack enough bottles for each day, but remember, you can always wash them as needed.
• High chair: As mentioned earlier, unless you’re staying in a house without a high chair, you don’t need to bring one. Instead, consider using a portable booster seat. A little one who can sit on their own can even eat sitting on blanket on the sofa or the floor.

Entertainment

Keeping a baby or toddler entertained on a long trip can be challenging. You’ll want to bring books and toys, but resist packing…

• Too many toys: Pack a few toys that your baby loves. You can always buy a couple of new toys at your destination if needed.
• Too many books: While books are a good distraction, they’re bulky and heavy–not ideal for travel. Pack a few of your baby’s favorites, and consider downloading some baby-friendly books or apps onto your tablet or phone.

Medications and First Aid

It’s important to be prepared for medical emergencies when traveling with a baby, but there are some items that you can likely do without:

• Too many medications: Pack enough medication for your baby’s specific needs. Unless you’re traveling somewhere that’s very remote, you can always buy more at your destination if needed.
• First aid kit: While a first aid kit can be helpful, focus on the necessities. Pack basic items such as band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and infant pain relievers.

Mom’s Comfort

While it’s important to prioritize your baby’s needs while traveling, taking care of yourself is also important. Here are some items that can help make your trip more comfortable:

• Comfortable clothes: Pack clothes and shoes that are comfortable and easy to move in. You’ll be lifting and carrying a lot, so make sure you’re comfortable.
• Nursing cover: If you’re breastfeeding, a nursing cover can be helpful for privacy and comfort.
• Snacks: Pack healthy snacks to keep your energy up during your trip.

Miscellaneous

Some things don’t fit into any specific category, but these are a couple of items you can probably skip:

• Baby bathtub: Unless you’re staying in a hotel or a home without a bathtub, you don’t need to bring a baby bathtub. And, you can often make do bathing your baby in the sink or shower.
• Baby food maker: While a baby food maker can be convenient, it’s not necessary. You can make baby food with a blender or food processor.

Final Thoughts

Traveling with a baby can be a wonderful experience, but it can also be stressful. By packing smart and only bringing the essentials, you can make your trip easier and more enjoyable. 

Remember to prioritize safety, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if needed. Most importantly, enjoy your trip with your little one! Traveling with your child can be an amazing opportunity to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Also read:
5 Smart Tips for Your First Flight with Baby
Disney World on a Budget: 4 Ways to Save
Looking for Road Trip Activities for Kids? Pick up These Free Printable Travel Games

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