What if you forget something? Will the baby be able to deal with changes to their schedule? Will they get bored? What if they don’t nap?

Traveling with a baby under one might feel overwhelming or nerve-racking, but with the right preparation and mindset, it can be a wonderful experience for everyone in the family. Let’s talk through the steps that you can take to prepare before traveling with your baby.

Step 1: Pack Smart

The main idea here is to keep all your essentials within reach. All of the daily items that you need for your baby should be in a diaper bag or carry on so that you’re able to access them whenever you need to.

• Diaper Bag: Keep diapers, wipes, a changing pad, extra clothes for the baby (and yourself!), burp cloths, and a few favorite toys readily accessible.
• Feeding Supplies: Depending on your baby’s habits and appetite, pack enough formula, bottles, breast milk (if applicable), and any necessary feeding accessories for the duration of your trip.
• Snacks: Bring plenty of age-appropriate snacks to keep your little one content during the journey.
• First Aid Kit: Pack a basic first-aid kit with baby-specific items like infant pain relievers and a thermometer.

Remember: If you forget something, chances are you’ll be able to buy it locally (depending on your destination, of course). If you feel more comfortable, locate the nearest store to your accommodation (like a Walmart or Target) that is sure to have your baby’s essentials. This is especially helpful if you’d rather just buy full-size liquids at your destination, rather than having to use airplane bottles of products for your entire trip. Take the pressure off forgetting to pack something by knowing that you’ll most likely be able to get whatever you need. 

Step 2: Figuring Out Your Baby’s Transportation

Many new parents decide to stay closer to home for a vacation, which means they’ll be traveling by car. Does your child need a car seat for your trip? Don’t leave figuring out this part of your journey until the day before you leave!

• Double Check Your Car Seat: If you're renting a car, check the type of car seat you need and ensure your child’s car seat is compatible with the rental vehicle.
• Airline Car Seat: Most airlines allow you to check a car seat for free. Invest in a good cover bag to protect it during transportation to prevent scrapes, scratches, and dings. Just remember that if you decide to check your car seat under the plane, you run the risk of it becoming lost luggage. If you’re worried about this – particularly if you need to make a connecting flight or transfer your own luggage – you could consider securing an AirTag to the car seat and tracking it for peace of mind.
• Traveling With a Stroller: When choosing a stroller specifically for travel, opt for one that is lightweight, compact, and has adequate storage as you may be traveling with other gear as well. It’s also a good idea to invest in a travel bag or cover for your baby’s stroller to protect it from damage. If traveling by plane, check the airline policies ahead of time. 
• Frequent Breaks: Plan to stop every 2-3 hours for diaper changes, feedings, and playtime, unless your baby is soundly sleeping.
• Choose a Carrier: Purchasing a lightweight baby carrier made with breathable fabric can be really helpful so that you and your baby remain cool, especially if you think you’ll be babywearing more than usual. 

Step 3: Anticipating Baby’s Sleeping Arrangements

This might be the leg of the journey that is most anxiety-inducing to parents. But if you want to travel with your baby, thinking ahead about how to help your baby get the best sleep is necessary.

• Pack 'n Play or Travel Crib: Will your accommodation have a crib? Check ahead of time to make sure you have an age-appropriate crib option available for your child, whether that’s at your hotel or if it’s one you bring yourself.
• Familiar Bedding: Bring your baby's usual sheets or blankets to create a comforting sleep environment.
• Nap Schedule: As much as possible, try to adhere to your baby’s schedule. Any parent knows that deviating from naptime can be tough on your little one and the people around them.
• Changing Time Zones: Traveling across the country with your baby? There are steps you can take ahead of time to shift their sleep schedule as much as possible, from adding in an extra nap to making use of sunshine to help their body adjust.

Step 4: Sun Protection for Your Baby

Anytime you travel, not just during the summer, plan ahead to limit your baby’s sun exposure.

• Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen formulated for babies before heading out, even on cloudy days. Remember, doctors do not recommend putting sunscreen on babies under six months of age.
• UV Window Shades: If traveling by car, use UV-protective shades on the windows to shield your baby from the sun's rays. When traveling by plane, put the sun shade down during the ride (excluding takeoff and landing, as per airline safety instructions).
• Sun Hats and Protective Clothing: Dress your baby in lightweight, breathable clothing that covers their arms and legs. Consider a wide-brimmed hat for added protection.
• Water and Beach Safety: If you'll be around water, opt for a UV-protected swimsuit and swim diapers for your little one.

Step 5: Playing With Your Baby While Traveling

Your baby will be in a new place. How exciting! Though this trip is a departure from their typical schedule, you’ll still need to have playtime during the day. Bring toys with you to keep their attention, help them soothe, and provide new sensations and opportunities to learn.

• Books: Board or fabric books are a great way to keep your baby’s attention and can be incorporated into their bedtime routine too.
• New Toys: Pack a few new toys for your baby and pull them out when they need a new distraction.
• Happy Little People Deck: Bring your baby’s Happy Little People™ Baby Activity Cards for portable, easy activities that you can do anytime, anywhere.

Remember, traveling with a baby is an adventure! Things may not go the way you planned or the way that you traveled before kids. Be flexible, patient, and go with the flow. With a little planning, you and your little one can enjoy a wonderful trip together. Soon enough, you’ll have your own tips on how to travel with a baby.