What to pack for baby’s summer holiday
When planning a holiday or trip with baby, it’s important to make sure you have everything you might need. Here is a check list to make sure you don’t forget anything.
For the plane
- Milk - Whether your little one is on expressed breastmilk or formula, bring enough pre-made bottles for the journey. Baby food and baby milk (both formula and expressed) are exempt from liquid limitations so bring enough for flights, transfers and be prepared for delays. Check your airline policy before leaving for the airport.
- Nappies, wipes, and creams – Although some airlines do offer nappies and baby wipes, they may not fit your baby well or could be a brand that doesn’t agree with your little one’s skin. Don’t rely on airline freebies and bring more than enough for your flight/transfers, and airport waits.
- Spare clothes for baby and you – With the excitement of flying, the risk of turbulence, and some possible travel sickness, it’s important to make sure you bring a full change of clothes for both you and baby.
- Meals - Some airlines will be happy to heat up your baby meals or milk for you but others won’t be so keen. Check with your airline before flying.
- Snacks - For little ones who like to snack, packing boxes of raisins, dried fruits, rice cakes, cheese, and fruit bars are perfect to bring along. Check with your destination’s guidelines on what can be brought into the country and declare anything you need to.
- Equipment - Remember to pack bibs and baby spoons.
Clothing
- Sunglasses – To protect your little one’s eyes.
- Sun hats – Bring a sun hat with a wide brim to protect baby’s face and neck from the sun
- Long sleeve light t-shirts – Long sleeve t-shirts made from a light fabric will keep baby protected from the sun whilst keeping cool.
- Light trousers - Light trousers will stop little legs from burning
- Plenty of options – Bring about two outfits a day and pack a variety of options for both warm and cooler weather at night time.
- Water nappies – If these might be difficult to find at your destination, pack some.
Other essentials
- Travel Cot – If your hotel doesn’t supply one or if you are visiting friends without children a travel cot comes in very handy.
- Suncream – Baby suncream is important to keep your baby safe in the sun. Make sure you check the ingredients list.
- First aid kit – For minor injuries and incidents, a first aid kids is useful for the whole family.
- Sleeping bag – If you’re concerned baby might be cold during the night or just want them to have something familiar, pack their blanket or baby sleeping bag.
- Bath plug – A universal bath plug can easily turn any shower base or sink into a bath for baby. If you can’t find one, an inflatable paddling pool works well as a baby bath.
- Toiletries - Baby safe shampoo and soap might be difficult to locate to pack them before you leave.
- Baby sling/carrier – Baby slings and carriers are good for long trips out and about where a buggy might not be feasible.
- Duct tape – Baby proofing on the go can be difficult in a hotel or apartment abroad but a bit of duct tape can quickly cover up sockets, tape up cords, and cover any cracked tiles.
- Bottle warmer and sterilising equipment
- Travel stair gate - If you’re concerned your little one might go exploring on their own, bring or buy a travel stair gate to stop baby getting near swimming pools or balconies. This article on pool and water safety is helpful.
Where now?
Photography: Darrel Birkett @ Flickr
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