Baby Travel Must-Haves
Every family — and every child — is different. What works for one may not work for another. Personally, I like to travel with as little as possible (okay, I often overpack … but usually just with the clothes!). What your baby needs, where you’re going, and how you’re traveling will all play into what you ultimately bring. Air travel looks different from a road trip. Quick trips look different than longer stays. Visiting family looks different from exploring a new destination.
When it comes to traveling with babies, there’s a lot of variation. For example, I’ve flown with a car seat (we chose to gate check it and hold the baby on my lap), I’ve traveled with a full-size stroller, a compact stroller, an umbrella stroller, a baby carrier, and nothing at all. Each comes with pros and cons, and I definitely have opinions!
Car Seats
When traveling with an infant under 2 years old, you may choose to travel with a “lap infant” (held on your lap) or purchase a seat and use an aircraft-approved car seat. Factors like safety, flight length, and comfort all play into the decision.
For smaller infants, I recommend what works for your baby. If your baby does really well in their car seat, bring it along! If they don’t quite enjoy it, maybe your lap is the best place. Only you can truly decide! For the kiddos that are a little bit older/bigger (ideal: 2+ | 22-50lbs | 30-45in.), I highly recommend the WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat. It meets all U.S. safety standards regulated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Federal Aviation Administration, so it’s ready for road or air travel. It is designed specifically with travel in mind, so it’s compact and easy to manage.
Strollers
With strollers, you’ll want to think about comfort, ease, and practicality. No answer is wrong, it is just a preference of what you’ll want to manage. Full-size strollers are comfortable and familiar, but bulky for airports and jet bridges. Umbrella strollers are lightweight, but tricky to fold and street one-handed. Compact travel strollers are often the sweet spot — portable yet practical.
Here are our top recommended travel strollers:
Baby Carriers
Carries are lifesavers when you need to go hands-free — through security, on cobblestones, or when the stroller isn’t practical. I personally love Baby Tula (they cover everything from newborn wraps to back carriers up to 70lbs). Other great options include:
Additional Travel Gear
Depending on your travel style and your baby’s needs, these can be game-changers:
Pack n Play – a portable crib ensures your baby always has a safe, familiar sleep space
Sound Machine – blocks out noise for better naps or night sleep
Diaper Bag – keep it compact but organized with diapers, wipes, and changing essentials
Portable Changing Station/Pad – Makes on-the-go changes easier (and cleaner)
Blackout Curtains – travel-friendly versions help babies nap in bright hotel rooms
Feeding Gear – Adjust based on your baby’s stage:
Breastfeeding: muslin cover, breast pump, milk storage bags
Formula Feeding: bottles, pre-measured containers, travel bottle brush
Solids: silicone bib, reusable snack containers, cup for water/juice
Health + Safety
A small kit of health and safety items can make all the difference:
Grooming Kit – including thermometer, nail clippers, comb, etc.
Bath Essentials – shampoo, wash, lotion
Nasal Aspirator – electric, bulb, or manual sucker
Final Thoughts
Traveling with a baby may look intimidating, but once you find your rhythm, it becomes second nature. You don’t need to bring the entire nursery — just the essentials that keep your baby safe, comfortable, and happy. Everything else? You can usually find it at your destination.
With the right gear, traveling with your baby isn’t just doable — it’s an adventure you’ll be glad you took.
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