The Ultimate Packing List for Traveling with a Baby, Toddler and Kid (+ Free Printable)

I am not going to start off saying that I have never messed up and have ALWAYS remembered everything on each trip. This couldn’t be further from the truth. I will, however, admit that amazing and diligent packing can make or break a trip! Luckily, I’ve gone through enough mess-ups to pass along my ultimate travel packing list and strategy that is sure to allow you to focus on other more important matters, like which kid will fall asleep first on the plane, or better yet, which restaurant at your new location will live up to the hype. This ultimate packing list will go over packing for ages 0-8, perfect for babies, toddlers and kids. Let’s get into it! (Free printable at the bottom)

Toddler and kid looking out airplane window
Mom and baby on airplane
Two children sleeping on airplane

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Baby and Toddler Travel Essentials

Carry-On Must-Haves for the Plane

Kids packing list layout

Checked Luggage Essentials

Kid Travel Essentials

Carry-On Must-Haves for the Plane

Kids suitcase
  • Backpack
  • Hoodie, super cozy socks, neck pillow, blanket
  • Headphones, tablet with downloaded movies or educational games with no wifi required
  • Mp3 player
  • Coloring or reading book (preferably about the location you’re going) crayons/pencil
  • Emergency medicine (I bring our EPI pen) + eye drops
  • Surprise toy (we typically choose a monster truck)
  • Airline-approved seat extender
  • Chewy snack or candy (gum or lollipop)
  • Reusable water bottle

Checked Luggage Essentials

  • Clothes (include undies + pair of sock per day, general outfit per day, plus two pyjama sets)
  • Sandal/shoe
  • Charger cord for electronics brought
  • Toothbrush, they can borrow your hairbrush
  • Camera
  • Food that is lightweight and something they absolutely love (mac and cheese cup, oatmeal)

Packing Tips from a Travel Mom

How I Organize Our Packing

I typically shove all my kids’ items into a large suitcase that is separated by packing cubes or ziplock bags. Additionally, a tried a true important travel hack I have used all over the world! Do not bring many items that you can typically purchase at a market/grocery store. If you have your hotel pre-booked, search its address on Google and the surrounding area for a supermarket you can easily get to (using public transportation, hotel shuttle, or walking) to purchase things like baby food, diapers, wipes, and snacks. This has given us a great way to get fun snacks or medicines from other places in the world, and can save suitcase space.

  • Packing cubes
  • Separate bags by child
  • Use gallon Ziplocs for outfits

What I Always Bring But Rarely Use

  • Diapers, wipes, baby food (see above for why)
  • Car seats (I typically rent from a car rental agency)

What I Forgot Once and Regretted

Free Printable Checklist

This printable checklist is designed for both digital and print use! Download below 👇 

Kids Packing ListDownload

Share your own must-haves in the comments! All in all, you’re planning a trip, and you are doing great by taking the steps to ensure everything is properly packed. It is not easy, but this packing list will certainly help you to remember the essentials for all ages. Keep in mind the above PDF is editable so you can add in things or take items away! Yay, how easy. Need some travel inspo? Check out my layover in Boston. Happy travels!

Vámonos Together + Fam

✈️ ¡Hola! I’m Joelyz—biologist turned full-time mamá and adventure planner for my crew of five. Through Vámonos Together, I share real-life tips, laughs, and stories from our family travels to inspire other parents to explore the world with their little ones. When I’m not writing, you’ll probably find me chasing my kids up a mountain trail or hunting down the best local coffee.