Congrats, you booked the flight! Feeling excited, overwhelmed, and maybe slightly panicked about what to pack? Yep, we’ve been there. But after countless flights with our kids (currently 5 and 1), we’ve nailed down what works—and what just takes up space. Here’s the ultimate packing list to make your family travel smoother, with tried-and-true gear recommendations. Read on for what to pack when traveling with toddlers
Packing List for Traveling with Kids
We’ve traveled internationally with both kids since they were 4 months old, tweaking our packing list at every stage. This guide covers everything: car seats, strollers, plane entertainment, and more. I’ll keep updating this post as we gain new experiences—let me know in the comments or DM me on Instagram if you have tips to add!
Flying with a Car Seat
We fly with a car seat for Arlo and used one for Remi until she switched to a forward-facing seat, then transitioned to the SafeRide Travel Vest (more on that below) or renting a booster seat when possible.
Why Bring Your Own Car Seat?
If You’re Renting a Car:
- Guaranteed Safety: Rental companies often have limited car seats, and many don’t guarentee you’ll get one even if you book in advance. Plus, you can’t be sure it hasn’t been in an unreported accident.
- Proper Fit: You know how to install your own seat correctly.
- Familiar Comfort: Our kids sleep better in seats they’re used to—a lifesaver for road trips.
If You’re Not Renting a Car:
- You’ll be Rideshare Ready: Perfect for taxis, Ubers, or friends’ cars—essential for trips like Bali where we had airport pickups and day tours.
Car Seat Alternative: SafeRide Travel Vest
Once Remi turned 4, we started using the SafeRide Travel Vest. It’s compact, easy to pack, and great for quick car rides when lugging a car seat isn’t practical.
Pro Tip: Use a Car Seat Bag
We swear by this Colby + Boone Car Seat Travel Bag after trying several. It’s durable, easy to handle, and roomy enough to stash extra items (like our hiking backpack—shh, don’t tell Delta). 😉
Flying with a Stroller
Our go-to travel stroller is the BabyZen YoYo with a toddler seat attachment. Here’s why we love it:
- Lightweight & Compact: Fits overhead on most planes, though we usually gate-check it.
- Perfect for Long Travel Days: Even our 5-year-old hops in when she’s tired.
- Pairs Well with a Carrier: We use the ErgoBaby 360 for Arlo, which has been a champ since Remi was born—durable, comfy, and great even for hiking.
Stroller Alternatives: Ride-On Suitcase Options
If don’t yet have a travel stoller than you love, consider spending that money instead on a more functional a ride-on suitcase with a toddler seat. You can then check a larger stroller to use on arrival, and use this in the airport.
| Product | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| MiaMily 4-Wheel Carry-On | Doubles as large suitcase, adult seat | Pricey |
| Apelila 22“ Ride-On | Fun for kids | Limited storage |
| LemoHome Rideable Luggage | Stroller part can be separated | Smaller wheels |
| Lugabug Travel Seat | Attaches to any suitcase (see size requirements) | Fabric seat can slide or droop |
| Joytravel Ride-on Luggage | Sturdy hard-case with seat and handle | No straps |
What to Pack for the Plane for Toddlers and Little Kids
If you’re a parent this won’t shock you: the thing that works the best for us for entertain our kids on a plane ride of any length is constant snacks. Actually, this is true for most kids most of the time, so you’re probably already be all over this.
Airplane/Car Toys & Activities That Actually Work
Don’t bring too many toys; they rarely hold toddlers attention unless is something new. A few ideas that have had some success:
- Reusable sticker Books (helps if they are new/surprise after they board)
- Water Reusable Activity Pads
- Sticker Wow Activity Pads (with sticker refils)
- Post-It Notes + Crayons (endless fun)
- Mini Activity Kits (flight attendants sometimes give these, but bring your own just in case)
- Doodle board (resuable coloring, good for games together too)
Pro Tip:
Pack toys/snacks in a hanging toiletry bag to hook onto the seat in front of you. It keeps everything within reach and organized.
Other Essentials for Traveling with Kids
General Travel Gear
- Wet/Dry Bags (for spills, dirty clothes)
- Collapsible Backpack (ditch the bulky diaper bag)
- Collapsible Duffle (beach days, overnight trips, and extra personal item if I buy too much on the trip!)
- Lightweight Baby Blanket (multi-use)
- Kids’ Camera (fun and distraction rolled into one, Kidamento brand has good quality photo and video and removable mini SD)
- Or an instant camera (for older kids who won’t waste the paper)
- Portable High Chair (we’ve used a few types)
- Stackable snack cups (eco-friendly, kids can hold themselves)
- Kid-Friendly Headphones (wired to use on planes)
- Hand Sanitizer and Wipes (beware of ones that clip on to a backpack, they can easily pop open and make a mess)
For Hotels & Vacation Rentals
- Nightlight (helpful for middle-of-the-night wake-ups)
- Portable Sound Machine (block out unfamiliar noises)
- Or Remi loves her Yoto player – nightlight, sound machine and music player toy in one
- Travel Cot (only if truly necessary, we usually can borrow one)
- Travel Laundry Detergent Sheets (works in a washing machine or tear off a bit for sink washing)
For Hiking/Camping
- Hiking Backpack or ErgoBaby Carrier for little ones
- Packable Waterproof Coveralls
- Patagonia Puffers (we bought used, but worth every penny—lightweight yet warm)
- Insect Repellent (for bug-free outdoor adventures)
- Compact First Aid Kit (essential for minor injuries)
International Travel Must-Haves
- Convertible kids neck pillow (extra comfort for long journeys + stuffed friend for nightime)
- Travel Adapters
- Child Identification Bracelet (this one has contact info QR code and tracker app) or Airtag bracelet
For Road Trips with Kids
- Car Seat Mirror (to keep an eye on a rear-facing baby from the drivers seat)
- Travel Potty (for emergencies – this one also fits on top of a toilet)
- Window Shades (protects from direct sunlight)
Health and Safety Essentials
- Medications (prescription and OTC)
- Kids Tylenol (just in case)
- Elderberry gummies (to keep us healthly)
- Meletonin (helps us adjust to jet leg for kids and grownups – not medical advice)
- Vaccination Records (especially for international travel – check country requirements)
- Travel sunscreen (so we don’t have to worry about buying it the first day)
Got a must-have item we missed? Drop a comment below or DM me on Instagram—I’d love to hear what works for your family!
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