a short list for traveling with a baby

This is a working list of items families tend to rely on while traveling with a baby. It’s not exhaustive, and it’s not prescriptive. Many families adapt with what they already have.

This list exists for those moments when a concrete reference is helpful — especially early on, when decision fatigue is real.

Some links on this page are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. We only recommend products we genuinely use and trust. These commissions help support our work as we develop our own collection.

If you’re preparing for a baby and looking for a broader, non-travel list, we’ve shared a separate working list for the early months.

A parent pushing a stroller down a city street, captured in black and white.

Some links may be affiliate links. We only include items families consistently rely on while traveling.

GETTING THERE

These are the items that shape the travel day itself — airport lines, security, boarding, and transfers.

A travel-ready stroller
Lightweight, folds quickly, and fits overhead or gate-check requirements without fuss.
Bugaboo Butterfly 2

A soft carrier
For security lines, stairs, transit, or any moment when a stroller becomes more of a burden than help.
Artipoppe Zeitgeist Carrier

A stroller organizer
A slim, stroller-attachable pouch for a few diapers, wipes, and a changing pad — ideal for quick changes on the move.
Bugaboo Stroller Organizer

A travel diaper bag
Thoughtfully designed for outings, with durable organization and flexible storage.
BÉIS Ultimate Diaper Backpack

A changing surface
A slim, wipeable pad to unpack and use as a dedicated changing station once you arrive.
Osprey Portable Changing Pad

Packing cubes
For keeping essentials organized and accessible without unpacking everything.
Aerotrunk Compression Packing Cubes

A car seat
One of the safest options available, with a baseless design ideal for taxis and rentals. Easy to attach to a Bugaboo travel stroller with adapters.
Clek Liingo

Car Seat Adapter

A car seat travel bag
Protective, padded, and practical for flights and transfers.
YOREPEK Padded Car Seat Bag

SLEEPING AWAY FROM HOME

Sleep is often the biggest unknown. These items aim to recreate familiarity, not perfection.

A portable sleep solution
Appropriate for your baby’s age and comfortable in unfamiliar rooms.
Guava Lotus Travel Crib

A familiar sleep cue
A small, consistent signal that signals bedtime in an unfamiliar environment. A portable white noise machine works well for many families.
Hatch Go White Noise Machine

FEEDING ON THE ROAD

Meals and feeding routines shift when you’re away from home. These items help keep feeding calm and practical.

A travel bottle brush
Compact and quick-drying, useful for washing bottles or pump parts in hotel sinks.
Momcozy Travel Bottle Brush: https://amzn.to/49P3pe5

Pump or bottle wipes
For quick cleanups when washing isn’t practical.
Breast Pump Wipes: https://amzn.to/3ZsrJ0m

A formula dispenser
Keeps measured portions contained and accessible on travel days.
Formula Dispenser: https://amzn.to/4bdMSCM

Spill-resistant feeding tools
Easy to clean, easy to replace, and not precious.
Silicone Tiny Plate
Travel Placemat
Lalo Utensils

A sealed snack or bottle system
For transit days when timing doesn’t cooperate.
Munchkin Snack Cup:
Moonkie Training & Sippy Cup

Portable seating (in development)
A simple, travel-ready seating solution can change how — and where — families eat while traveling.
We’re currently developing our own version, informed by years of travel and the limitations of what’s available. More soon.