Remembering to pack everything you will need on a trip is hard enough when you only have to think about yourself, add a baby to the mix and you are bound to forget something.  Babies need a surprising amount of stuff for something so little.  When my husband and I traveled with our infant daughter over the holidays I found it was key to pack light for ourselves because the baby stuff took up a lot of room.  Traveling with your kids can be fun, packing for the trip is another story!

Here is a little checklist to hopefully make your packing adventure a little easier.

• Diapers.  You will need some in your carry-on luggage and some for the rest of the trip.  Pack extras in your carry-on luggage to account for any delays you may encounter.  If you are headed to a destination where you won’t be able to buy diapers be sure to pack more than you think you will need, just in case.

• Changing pad.  You may want one for your carry-on luggage and one in your regular luggage.

• Blankets.  Make sure you bring blankets for several different temperatures.  If you won’t be able to do any laundry while you are gone make sure you bring extras.

• All the diaper changing essentials, wipes, diaper cream, hand sanitizer, etc.

• Clothes for the baby.  Include clothes for all different weather conditions and bring extras in case you can’t do any laundry. (Don’t forget the socks!)

• A hat that is appropriate for the weather conditions where you are heading.

• If your baby uses a pacifier don’t forget to bring extras.

• If your baby is eating solid foods make sure you pack food, utensils, bowls, etc.

• Bottles, with extra nipples and something to clean them with.  Even if you are breastfeeding it is a good idea to have bottles with you just in case.

• If you baby is formula fed be sure to bring enough formula plus a some extra.

• Your breast pump if you use one and intend to pump on the trip.

• Snacks and water for you if you are breastfeeding as you’ll need them on the trip.

• First aid kit with all the baby essentials like baby pain reliever and anti-gas drops plus any medications your baby may be taking.

• Portable crib or playard if one is not available at your destination (don’t forget the sheets).

• Carseat.

• Portable baby bathtub (inflatable or folding types work best).

• Stroller (lightweight and easy to carry are best).

• Front carrier or sling.

• Some of your baby’s favorite toys.

It seems like a lot of stuff, and it is.  Babies require a lot of stuff and if you travel with your baby you have to bring all that stuff with you.  Anything you can pick up when you get to your destination like diapers, wipes, etc will help to lighten your load, but make sure you can get the brand you (and your baby) are used to using.  If you are staying in a hotel some do provide cribs so call ahead to find out if you will need to bring your own or not.

Good luck packing and enjoy your trip!!