Planning your summer break? But wait…holidays with a baby? Absolutely! Forget the stress of packing and embrace the joy of making memories with your little one. We've compiled a list of baby travel essentials and useful additions, designed to make your holiday smooth, comfortable, and utterly delightful.
1. Changing on the go:
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Nappies and wipes: Never be caught short! Pack plenty of nappies and wipes for the journey and some extra for when you arrive, especially if you're venturing off the beaten track.
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Changing mat: A portable changing mat makes nappy changes hygienic and convenient, wherever adventure takes you. We always have one of these on our baby holiday checklist.
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Nappy cream: Hot weather and sea water can wreak havoc with sensitive skin so keep your baby's bottom happy and rash-free with a travel-sized tub of nappy cream or soothing baby balm.
2. Feeding made easy:
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Breastfeeding or formula milk: Whichever you choose, ensure you have supplies. If you're formula-feeding, bring enough formula as you may not be able to find your preferred brand abroad. If you're breastfeeding, consider bringing a breast pump and storage bags for a worry-free trip.
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Bottles and teats: Pack enough bottles and teats for the duration of your trip, plus a few spares, to ensure feeding time is always a breeze.
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Steriliser: Keep things hygienic and germ-free with a travel steriliser. Because holidays are for fun, not tummy troubles.
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Bibs, burp cloths and muslins: Protect those adorable outfits with plenty of bibs or muslins. Messy moments are inevitable, but stained clothes are not! Larger muslin swaddle blankets make great sunshades and buggy covers too. A couple of these should be on every packing list for a holiday with baby.
3. Sweet dreams, wherever you are:
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Baby sleeping bag: Familiar surroundings equal restful sleep. Pack your little one's favourite sleeping bag for a sense of comfort and security - be sure to check the tog rating is the correct one for the climate you’re visiting.
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Familiar lullabies or white noise: Drown out unfamiliar sounds and create a tranquil sleep haven with a portable white noise machine or your baby monitor’s built-in lullabies.
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Talking of baby monitors: Some of the best travel gear for babies can really help you relax and enjoy those balmy evenings while your baby sleeps soundly. The Lullaby Bay baby monitor, with its innovative no-wifi technology, gives you peace of mind wherever you are, even in those gorgeous rural cottages and villas with limited (or no) internet access.
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Travel cot: If your accommodation doesn’t provide a cot then consider hiring or taking a lightweight portable travel cot to make sure your baby enjoys a peaceful slumber. It can also double up as a playpen for younger babies - somewhere to pop your little one for a couple of minutes, while you apply your sunscreen!
4. Dress for adventure:
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Clothes for all weather: Be prepared for anything! Pack a variety of clothes for different weather conditions, including layers for warmth and sun protection.
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Sun hat and sunglasses: Shield those delicate eyes and skin from the sun with a stylish hat and sunglasses - essential for any summer holiday with baby.
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Swimwear and towels: Don't forget swimwear and towels for splashing fun in the pool or sea.
5. Explore with ease:
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Pushchair or carrier: Choose a lightweight pushchair or carrier for easy folding and effortless exploration, from bustling markets to scenic hikes.
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Car seat: If you're hiring a car, consider bringing your own car seat for ultimate safety and peace of mind. Some airlines will let you put a car seat in hold for free with your baggage, be sure to ask when you're booking flights!
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Travel toys: Keep your little one entertained on the go with a selection of their favourite travel toys and books.
6. Health and happiness:
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First aid kit: A travel-sized first aid kit is a must-have for minor bumps and scrapes.
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Sunscreen: Protect your baby's delicate skin with a baby-safe sunscreen, applied regularly throughout the day. The NHS has some handy tips for keeping your baby safe in the sun.
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Insect repellent: Keep those pesky bugs at bay with a gentle, baby-friendly insect repellent.
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Most pharmacies will sell baby paracetamol or ibuprofen but to save a middle of the night hunt in an unknown town, pack a few sachets of your trusted brand and avoid late night dashes to a pharmacy in an unfamiliar town!
7. Extra touches for extra comfort:
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Portable blackout blind: Ensure a restful sleep for your little one, even in bright environments, with a portable blackout blind that easily attaches to windows. Perfect for those long summer days or unfamiliar hotel rooms.
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Inflatable baby bath: Save space and weight with an inflatable baby bath that packs down small. Enjoy bath time fun wherever you are.
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Books and toys: Bring along some familiar favourites for quiet moments and bedtime stories.
It sounds like a lot to consider, but it’s so worth it when you’re in the middle of a fun and relaxing holiday. Our favourite phrase at Edith & George HQ is little things matter, and this is especially true when creating big adventures with your little one. Happy travels!
What are your top tips for travelling with a baby? Let us know in the comments below.
