Figuring out how to travel with a toddler can be overwhelming, even for seasoned parents. You want to be fully prepared with everything you might need, but at the same time, it’s important not to over-pack and end up juggling more luggage than you can reasonably manage.
Traveling with a toddler is also quite different from traveling with a newborn who needs constant care or an older child who can lend a hand. That’s why having a travel checklist is so useful. It helps you stay organized and reduces stress.
While there are plenty of general family vacation packing lists and printable checklists available online, a travel checklist specifically designed for toddlers will be more relevant and tailored to your needs. It can help you prepare for just about any situation, whether it’s something you expect or a surprise along the way.
What to Pack for a Toddler
Toddlers have their own unique needs, so planning a trip with one requires a little extra thought. Before you head out, consider where you're going and whether the destination is kid-friendly. Think about how you'll get there and how you'll get around once you arrive. Take into account how long you'll be traveling and what the weather will be like during your stay. Look at the activities you have planned and make sure they’re suitable for a toddler. Also, consider how easy it will be to buy essentials if you forget something or run out. Thinking through these details ahead of time can help make your trip smoother and more enjoyable for everyone.
In general, your toddler packing list should cover everything your child needs for the trip. This includes enough clothing and accessories, snacks and food, bath and bedtime essentials, entertainment items, diapers, travel gear, medications, and a few other miscellaneous necessities.
Your packing list for toddler travel might include the following:
- Everyday outfits for different activities, plus comfy clothes for lounging
- A dressy outfit for special occasions
- Pajamas for bedtime
- Plenty of socks and underwear
- Multiple pairs of shoes (water shoes, play shoes, dress shoes, and everyday extras)
- A jacket and possibly a sweater, depending on the weather
- Swimsuits for pool or beach days
- Hats for sun protection or warmth
- Toddler-safe soap and shampoo
- Toothbrush and toddler-friendly toothpaste
- Sunscreen appropriate for young skin
- Hair accessories and a brush or comb
- Baby wipes for clean-ups
- Diapers or pull-ups, depending on your toddler’s needs
- Any necessary medications
- A basic first aid kit
- Hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes
- Car seat for safe travel
- Stroller for easy mobility
- Sippy cups or spill-proof bottles
- Pack-and-play or portable crib for sleeping
- Your toddler’s favorite blanket or pillow for comfort
- A few favorite books for quiet time
- Coloring books and crayons for creative play
- A stash of travel-friendly snacks
- iPad or tablet for entertainment
- Resealable plastic bags for organizing and storing small items
- Small toys for entertainment
- Toddler-sized headphones for screen time or music
Certain types of trips require extra planning and specific items. For example, if your family is heading to a winter cabin, your toddler will need cold-weather gear such as mittens, hats, earmuffs, ski suits, and other warm clothing. It’s also important to ensure your child is up to date on all required immunizations. Be sure to bring copies of their medical records, passport if needed, and birth certificate.
Although this might seem like a lot to pack, it’s better to be well-prepared than caught off guard. Toddlers often go through several outfit changes each day, snack frequently, and need consistent entertainment. You may even need a separate suitcase just for their essentials, but having everything they need will give you peace of mind throughout the trip.