The Ultimate Packing List for Traveling with Littles
Packing for a toddler (or a baby)? You’re in the right place.
Between diapers, snacks, and gear, it can feel like you’re packing your entire house — and forgetting something anyway. As a mom of two and a travel planner, I’ve packed everything from pacifiers to pull-ups — and I’ve helped other busy parents feel prepared, too. So here’s what you actually need for your next trip — from diaper bags to magic bands.
Clothing & Sleepwear
✅ 3–5 short-sleeve outfits
✅ 2–3 long-sleeve outfits or layering sets
✅ 2–3 pairs of PJs
✅ 1–2 sweaters or hoodies
✅ Swimsuit + swim shoes
✅ Socks + underwear / pull-ups
✅ 1–2 pairs of shoes (play + comfy)
✅ Sleep sack or wearable blanket (if used)
✅ Backup outfit(s) for nighttime accidents
Toiletries & Bath Time
✅ Baby wash + shampoo if you don’t want to use what the hotel provides
✅ Lotion + diaper cream
✅ Toddler toothbrush + toothpaste
✅ Hairbrush / detangling spray
✅ Nail clippers (baby-safe)
Gear & Essentials
🛑 ONLY PACK ENOUGH DIAPERS/PULL-UPS FOR THE TRIP TO YOUR DESTINATION! BUY THE REST WHEN YOU GET THERE.
✅ Travel-size sound machine
✅ Nightlight or small plug-in light
✅ Travel blackout curtains (if sensitive sleeper)
✅ Monitor (if needed in larger resort rooms)
✅ Extra pacifiers or loveys
✅ Extra blankie or stuffed animal
✅ White noise playlist downloaded (backup)
Feeding Supplies
✅ Toddler utensils + travel bib
✅ Spill-proof cup or bottle
✅ Formula or shelf-stable milk
✅ Snacks (non-perishable) - ONLY ENOUGH FOR THE TRIP THERE!
✅ Baby food pouches - ONLY ENOUGH FOR THE TRIP THERE!
✅ Reusable snack containers
✅ Dish soap + bottle brush - ONLY IF FRONT DESK DOESN’T PROVIDE! CALL AHEAD AND ASK!
✅ Compact drying mat or bottle rack
Just-in-Case Items
✅ First aid kit (infant/toddler safe meds)
✅ Thermometer
✅ Anti-itch cream / sunscreen / bug spray - TRAVEL SIZE
✅ Wet bag for laundry
✅ Extra ziplocks or trash bags
✅ Favorite bedtime book or playlist
✅ One “comfort from home” item (blanket, toy, nightlight)
Optional But Helpful
✅ Foldable step stool (bathroom)
✅ Portable booster seat
✅ Collapsible hamper
✅ Clip-on fan
✅ Small container of toddler-safe cleaning wipes
Things You Don’t Need to Pack — Buy These at Your Destination, Rent from Vendor, or Request from Front Desk
Save space in your suitcase by skipping these travel extras and grabbing them once you arrive:
Stroller
There are different companies that you can rent your stroller from so that you don’t have to take it on the plane if you are flying. You can have it delivered to your resort.
Diapers & Wipes
Order a pack for delivery or pick up at a nearby store — no need to haul a week’s worth.
Extra Snacks
Bring a few favorites for the plane or car, but stock up on the rest once you arrive.
Sunscreen & Bug Spray
TSA-size restrictions aside, you’ll likely need more than 3oz. Buy full-size at your destination.
Toddler-Friendly Groceries
Shelf-stable milk, juice boxes, cereal, yogurt pouches, etc. can be grabbed locally.
Bottled Water or Gallon Jugs
If using formula, it’s easier to buy distilled water once you’re settled.
Cheap Souvenirs or Toys
Dollar store toys or park-friendly trinkets can be picked up for less once you’re in town.
Beach or Pool Toys
Floaties, sand buckets, and splash gear take up space and are easy to find near resorts.
Laundry Detergent Pods or Sheets
If your resort or rental has laundry access, pick up a small container instead of packing them.
Highchair
Most hotels will have highchairs that you can use, or you can rent one.
Bonus Tip:
If you’re headed to Disney or Universal, use grocery delivery services like Instacart, Walmart+, or Amazon Fresh to have toddler-friendly items delivered straight to your hotel.
Remember, You’re Doing Great
No list is perfect. You’ll forget something. And it’ll still be okay.
You are showing up for your family in a beautiful way — and your little one won’t remember the forgotten socks, only that you were there, smiling, holding their hand, and letting them see the world.
🌤 Sunshine for Your Soul
“The Lord will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength.” — Isaiah 58:11, NLT
Even in the busy, even in the chaos — you are being led. Let peace settle into the places where pressure tries to creep in.