Traveling with a baby can be overwhelming due to the amazing amount of stuff that such a little person needs each and every day. Well now double that load because your baby is now a toddler with bigger toys, food, gear etc.
Here is a checklist that will make traveling with a toddler easier, efficient and enjoyable...oh and hopefully help you keep your sanity.
Toys- Always have a few of your babies favorite toys. You will need this distraction while trying to go through airport security or waiting in long lines.
Books- Books are always great to have your toddler focused on the pictures and you can even use the books to bond with your child while you are waiting.
Blankets- Bring a couple of blankets especially is your child has a security blanket. You can use them to let the child rest, play on the floor, shade your baby or protect your clothing from spit up or diaper leaks.
Breast Pump - If you are still using a breast pump or if you are going to use one get one of the traveling kinds that is easy to transport.
Car Seat- Car seats are always important to take unless you plan on renting one from a rental car company. They make traveling on planes and cars safer. You can also get travel accessories for your car seat.
Bathing Suit and Sunscreen- If you are going on vacation make sure to bring a bathing suit and sunscreen especially if your destination(hotel) has a pool. It is also a good idea to bring a hat and sunglasses as well.
Bibs- Bibs for Boys and Bibs for Girls. Washable is ideal.
Stroller- If you can get a small travel stroller (especially one that will collapse) it can easily be checked at gates or stored in overhead bins on airplanes.
Clothes- Always make sure to pack One to Two extra outfits in your diaper bag or carry on luggage in case your baby spits up or has a diaper leak. Also pack socks or booties.
Diapers- I always pack at least one diaper for every hour of traveling (by road or by plane) that way i am covered if there is a traffic jam or plane delay.
Lansinoh Diaper Rash Ointment - The last thing you want is for your child to have an uncomfortable diaper rash with no cream for relief so make sure to pack a tube.
Extra Bottles, Nipples or Sippy Cups- This way you have a back up if one is dirty and you don't have quick access to a restroom to wash the bottle, nipple or sippy cup.
Extra Pacifiers- Always a good idea to have at least three that way if one is lost and one is dirty you still have a "mute button"
First Aid Kit- It is a good idea to have a first aid kit so you can treat your child for minor injuries they may receive while traveling.
Formula, water and/or juices- This is great to keep your child hydrated and it always helps a child's ears on an airplane if they have the distraction of eating and the sucking on the bottle will help the popping of their ears.
Safety Items- Like outlet covers and Corner covers. You would rather be safe than sorry.
Portable/Inflatable Bath Tub- Blow it up, fill it up, and splash away. Portable High Chair- great for taking to restaurants
Pack N Play- portable crib for grandmas house
Night light- If your child is afraid of the dark or sleeping in a different place this will help soothe them. It is also helpful to you when changing diapers in the middle of the night.
Plastic Bags- You are supposed to take plastic bags with you when you walk your dogs well the same goes for children. Always have extra plastic bags on you to put dirty diapers, dirty clothes or dirty blankets in so the mess doesn't get mixed in with clean items in your diaper bag.
Travel Silverware and baby food- You can't always get baby food at the local convenient store or airport store so pack a couple extra.
Chest Carrier or Sling- This will help you carry your child with ease and leave your hands free to carry other important items.
Lotions, disinfecting gels, baby shampoo, etc- Help your child fight off germs and stay clean by having small bottles of these items in a ziploc bag.
Tissues- To help stop the runny noses so your shirt sleeve doesn't have to.
Snacks- Snacks for you and your child. Goldfish, Cheerios, Fruit cups, Energy Bars, etc
Wipes- Wipes can be your best friend to clean up dirty diapers, messy hands, runny noses and even wipe down areas or items that your child has to touch.