Must Haves for Vacationing with Baby

Does “vacationing” with your baby bring to mind the need to load up a dump truck full of stuff just so you can have the necessities. As someone who has ventured on road trips, beach getaways, cruises and more, I know that vacations with baby is not as easy as it was when it was just the two of you. And while there are tons of tips on how to get there, there’s not much advice for how to manage once you arrive.  So If you’re going to be hitting the road with baby anytime soon, be sure to check out these baby travel necessities that will help make vacationing with baby a cinch!

PORTABLE BABY BOUNCER

The Chicco Pcket Relax Bouncer  is an ultra-compact portable rocker. You can set it up anywhere. Setup takes only a few seconds, and the rocker folds down into an ultra-compact shape that easily slips into a carry bag that comes with the bouncer. This rocker is very light and fits in your suitcase. This rocker is lifesaver. No more dragging your $1,000 stroller through the  sand at the beach just so that baby has somewhere to sit.

TRAVEL CHANGING STATION

Portable all in one diaper changing pad  is a lot smaller than a diaper bag yet carries all the essentials.  Fits easily in your purse or backpack so you don’t need the extra weight of a diaper bag. The zip off clutch has 3 mesh pockets to hold the basics such as diapers (all sizes), baby wipes, creams, baby bottles, etc. The attached cushioned changing mat includes an outside zipper pocket and may also be used separately. The padding in this mat keeps baby from laying on hard surfaces. This is especially helpful when traveling to foreign countries that have small restrooms without changing stations. Change baby easy anywhere, at the beach, campsite, road stop etc..

FORMULA POUCHES
For formula fed babies, you can pick up Similac pre-measured pouches. Each single-serve portion is enough for a 4 oz. bottle and there are 12 individual packets per box. They are a lot more convenient than a big bulky formula container. If this is not a brand that baby likes, think about using 4oz plastic disposable portion cups and pack as many portions you will need.

ON THE GO DRYING RACK

Of course you will be need a bottle washing station set up in your hotel room. The OXO Tot-on-the-Go dying rack comes with it’s own bottle brush. Simple and compact to do the job. Bring along a basic bottle washing liquid. You can try Dapple Baby Bottle and Dish Liquid, Lavender, Travel Size, 3 Fluid Ounce, 2 Pack. This is a pretty basic dish liquid but at 3 oz. you can easily pack it in your carry-on bag for plane trips. I keep the dish soap with my travel toiletries, so I know I’ll never be without it!

STERILIZER BAGS

As an extra precaution when you’re on the road, you might want to invest in disposable sterilizer bags. Each bag can actually be used 20 times, and all you need is a bag, your bottle and parts, and a microwave. These bags disinfect 99.9% of common bacteria and germs.

PACKING CUBES

Packing cubes are an essential. Cubes will help keep all of baby’s clothes, bibs, socks, and all the little baby items organized. Once you arrive at your destination, simply take the cubes out of the suitcase, place them in the hotel dresser and baby’s things will stay clean and organized within the cube, never coming into contact with the hotel drawer.

DIAPER LOTION KIT

The Cetaphil Mommy and Me travel kit contains diaper cream, daily lotion, baby wash and shampoo, baby moisturizing oil, moisturizing lotion, soft washcloth and reusable travel bag. Very convenient sizes for your carry-on bag.

OVERSIZED BAG

The Samsonite Tote-a-Ton is that perfect bag for oversized items. Durable yet lightweight this duffel holds as much as a trunk with over 6,000 cubic inches of space, it works great for the transport of any awkward baby items you can think of. Ever wondered about how to get a Fisher Price Rock and Play from point A to point B, well here’s your answer. Stick it in the Tote-a-Ton and check in at the gate.

INFLATABLE DUCK TUB

This Munchkin duck tub has a textured bottom so baby won’t slip while bathing in those huge hotel tubs. This item is a especially great for a beach getaway. It doubles as floaty boat for beach or pool swim time fun. Deflates and folds easily into your beach bag.

If you liked this post you might want to continue reading:

Courtesy of Allianz Travel Insurance, read some great tips for traveling with children.

What other travel necessities would you recommend?

Subscribe to my Newsletter

If you liked this article you might enjoy reading 10 Beach Essentials You Must Have in Your Bag.