With a little teamwork from some fellow Thomas Cook bloggers (parents who have been through it all), we’ve put together an easy-to-follow checklist to make travelling with a baby as smooth and stress-free as possible.
What to bring for your baby when travelling
• Passport and travel documents – Make sure your baby has a valid passport and any necessary visa or health documentation. If your little one has a different surname, this helpful guide on travelling with a child with a different surname has all the tips you need for a hassle-free journey.
• Nappies and baby wipes – Pack more than you think you’ll need, just in case of delays. Travel-sized packs are super convenient.
• Pushchair – You can easily take a pushchair with you on holiday and can wheel it right up to the plane door too, before it’s taken to be put in the hold.
• Car seat – Laws about child car seats can vary from country to country, so bringing your own can give you extra peace of mind while you’re away.
• Travel cot – Cot safety and comfort can differ abroad, so it’s a good idea to check what’s provided before you travel.
• Sling – Even if you use a pushchair, it’s still worth packing one of these as they can be a lifesaver when having to carry little ones and all your bags around on holiday.
Essential baby feeding items to pack for travel
• Baby food and formula – Bring all your usual baby food, formula, or juice to keep your baby well-fed. Good news: airport security usually exempts baby food from liquid restrictions - just be prepared to sample it for the security staff!
• Plastic cutlery – Make mealtimes on the go easier by packing lightweight, plastic cutlery. Perfect for holiday dining or picnics, they won’t weigh down your bag.
• Wipeable bibs – Say goodbye to endless laundry on holiday! These bibs catch spills and are super easy to clean.
• Non-spill cup – Ideal for weaning babies and on-the-go parents, these cups can withstand drops and bumps without making a mess.
• Teething necklace – Add a stylish and practical touch to your holiday accessories with a teething necklace. It keeps your baby entertained and soothed when feeding or on the move.
• Breast pump – If you use a breast pump, bring it along to maintain your feeding schedule while out and about.
Baby travel essentials for day and night
• Sun hat – Make sure to bring a wide brimmed sun hat with a chin strap to protect your baby’s sensitive skin from the sun.
• Baby sun cream (SPF 50+) – Use a high factor sun cream (especially made for babies) and apply it generously and often - particularly after play or a nap in the sun.
• Lightweight toys and books – A few favourites should do to keep your baby entertained on long-haul flights, at the beach, or during downtime. Choose compact and lightweight options for easy packing.
• Holiday-ready baby clothes – Pack light, breathable outfits for warm weather - think cotton rompers or playsuits, and short-sleeved bodysuits. Include a few spare outfits, in case of any accidents and don’t forget to add a couple of items in the next size up. They grow up so fast!
• Swim nappies – If there’s a pool, there’s bound to be splashing! Regular nappies won’t cut it in water so pack enough swim nappies for your trip.
• Baby wash and lotion – Keep your baby’s bedtime routine familiar with mini bottles of their regular bath products. It’s soothing, smells like home and helps them wind down after an active day.
• Universal bath plug – No tub? No problem. A universal bath plug turns most hotel sinks into instant baby baths. Bathtime adventures sorted!
• Pyjamas – Lightweight, breathable PJs will help your baby snooze happily in unfamiliar (and often warmer) holiday rooms.
• Travel blackout blind – Struggling with light evenings or early sunrises? A portable blackout blind helps recreate that cosy nighttime feel so your baby can stick to their usual sleep routine.
Extra items to pack for your holiday
• Nappy cream – Pool, water, heat and new routines can cause a nappy rash. A good nappy cream is essential for keeping your little one’s skin protected and comfortable on holiday.
• Plastic bags – Pack a few plastic or reusable wet bags for dirty nappies, soggy swimsuits or sudden spills.
• Hand sanitiser – You’ll find yourself changing and feeding your baby in all sorts of places, so this’ll come in very ‘handy’.
• Travel play mat or blanket – A fold up play mat or lightweight blanket gives your baby a clean, comfy spot to lie on. Bonus: it can double up as a changing mat too.
• Spare dummies – Dummies are great…until they disappear. They’re easy to lose while travelling so be sure to bring some extras to avoid any mid-trip meltdowns.
• First aid kit – Accidents can happen - even on holiday, so pack baby-safe essentials. The main resorts usually have pharmacies but it’s always best to come prepared.
• Entertainment for you – Once the baby is all tucked up for the night, you’ll want some downtime. Pack a book, card game (UNO is a winner!), or download your favourite shows and films for some well-earned relaxation!
Of course, no matter where your family holiday takes you, you’ll usually find shops nearby that stock all the baby holiday essentials. So if you forget something or just can’t fit it all in your suitcase, don’t worry - you can easily buy it when you arrive. Sometimes, it might even be cheaper at your destination.
If you’ve found this baby travel checklist helpful, you’ll definitely want to check out our full holiday packing list with even more family travel trips and must-haves. Happy travels!
Written 2017. Revised and republished 23/06/2025
About the author
Sadie Geoghegan is a freelance travel writer who, when she’s not exploring the world, can be found writing at home with her dog in Cambridge.