Since your little one arrived we know you’ve devoted every waking moment and every ounce of energy to them. Nappies, feeding and those endless sleepless nights... But let’s be honest mama, you deserve a holiday!
Planning your first holiday with your little one is an exciting time. What could be better than spending quality time with your other half and enjoying relaxing family time away from it all? But it can also be confusing knowing what to take with you, especially if your little one is still quite small. So we’ve done the hard work for you!
Here's our checklist for what to pack when travelling with baby:
1. Portable Baby Nest
A portable Baby Nest means bub always has a safe place to rest, wherever you are. Take it to the beach, out on a picnic or use on the plane and at the airport. As always, make sure it's free from toxins such as polyester or plastics that can be harmful for your baby, and choose an option that is lightweight for easy portability. The Bubnest Organic Baby Nest is perfect for travelling, and you can even purchase a Travel Bag to make transit even easier, while using it to protect your nest outdoors, while laying on the beach or on the grass.
2. Lightweight baby carrier while in transit or for easy outings
When travelling with a little one we highly recommend bringing along a lightweight baby carrier. It's a great way to keep your little one close while walking on the beach or exploring new cities. Plus, it can free up your hands so that you can do things like eat lunch or use them to carry other things!
When on holiday we love a carrier that is easy to use but also has plenty of airflow so that even if the weather gets warm, both parents will stay cool (and comfortable). We love the selections of baby carriers by local brand Chekoh, check them out here.
3. Three changes of clothes per day
Take at least three changes of clothes per day, as well as a couple of outfits for overnights. Your baby's clothes can get dirty quickly and you don't want to be stuck with just a few outfits. You will also want to be prepared for any weather conditions that may arise while travelling, so include clothing suitable for both hot and cold temperatures. If you are travelling by plane, remember that there is a weight restriction on baggage—so pack wisely!
4. Baby blanket
Sometimes a familiar item with familiar smells (such as a blanket) can be comforting for your little one when they're in an unfamiliar space. It's also handy for your baby to use when they're in transit or travelling in the stroller. A large blanket with good coverage is a great choice. It should be organic, lightweight and breathable. Luckily we have some great 100% organic options available here.
5. Sunscreen, sunhat, and at least two pairs of swimwear
We recommend packing at least two pairs of swimwear for your little one, along with a swim nappy to prevent embarrassing accidents. Reusable swim nappies are not only super cute, but much better for the environment (and your wallet) in the long run. Make the trip extra special, and why not pack matching family swimwear. We love Cheeky Chickadees range of swimwear, which are durable, affordable (and fun!).
Sunscreen is also important for babies, even if it's cloudy. If your baby is under 6 months we recommend using a natural zinc sunscreen, such as this one from MooGoo. Use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and reapply every two hours (even more frequently if you're swimming or sweating). If your baby has sensitive skin, look out for ingredients such as PABA, cinnamates, salicylates and fragrances.
6. Formula or expressed milk, bottles, and your breast pump
You'll want to pack either formula or expressed breast milk, bottles, and your breast pump. This is especially important if you're travelling with a newborn. If your baby has trouble adapting to the new location, having a bottle handy can be comforting and familiar for them.
An insulated bottle cooler bag can also be very handy for keeping expressed breastmilk cool or formula bottles warm during transit.
Also make sure you have enough liquid for yourself too—keeping hydrated is key, especially if you're out in the sun or in a warmer climate than your used to.
7. OnTheGo nappy bag stocked with the basics
A robust nappy bag stocked with the basics is a must-have when travelling with baby. While you should always ensure you have a change of clothes, nappies, wet bag and wipes on hand for each day, we also recommend including at least four spare nappies in your nappy bag at all times. Make sure your bag has special bottle pockets for storing bottles of formula or breastmilk, in fact, the more pockets the better! We love the OnTheGo Nursery Bag for it’s large accessible pockets and stylish (but durable) genuine leather.
If you’re flying somewhere we also recommend changing your baby directly before the flight (to avoid having to change a nappy mid-flight) and minimise the damage of any poo explosions mid-air!
If you've got expressed milk or formula it's a good idea to give your bub their bottle during take-off (which can reduce the air pressure on little ears) and provide a good distraction if your little one finds the sounds and sensations of lift-off a bit scary. Having a pacifier or dummy can also help soothe bub during liftoff and further minimise the effect of air pressure on little ears during a flight.
Make sure there's room in your hand luggage for toys and other distractions: books and tablets are great carry-on items, along with comfort items such as soft toys and blankets.
And lastly, choose a travel destination that caters for babies
If the mere thought of prepping, planning and packing all the things your baby might possibly need while you’re away makes your head spin, another way to reduce the suitcase load and avoid packing items all together is to choose a destination that caters for babies. Hamilton Island in Queensland is an example of a perfect destination to help you travel light, with many of their hotels providing a menu of essential baby items you can book for free prior to your stay.
These include: a crib or cot, highchair, baby bath, jogger pram, baby bouncer, change mat, bumbo - even a handheld vacuum!
Head over to our friends at TravelOnline.com for the latest family travel deals and destinations.
We hope this guide has given you some ideas and tips for packing when travelling with your baby. We know what a huge challenge it can be to get everything ready, so do feel free to reach out if you need more information on any of the products featured here today. And if there’s anything else we can help with, please let us know!
