Car, Plane, Train: The Perfect Travel with Toddler Checklist

Having one or even more toddlers is a real challenge. At the toddler stage, between 1 and 3 years old, these little ones are already independent—or at least they think so—making big plans and having some mighty mood swings. It’s already tough at home in a familiar environment, but on vacation, it’s a whole different level.

That’s why proper preparation is so crucial! When you have the essentials for every situation, it saves time and reduces stress. To make sure you’re perfectly prepared for your next family vacation, I’ve put together this perfect travel with toddler checklist just for you.

We started traveling with our oldest daughter when she was just six weeks old. Our second daughter was even born “on the road” in Thailand. So, I hope I can share some of the best tips with you! Don’t forget to download your free printable toddler travel checklist at the end of the article!

The Toddler Travel Essentials

Let’s start with the essentials—those things you absolutely shouldn’t leave home without when traveling with small children.

Baby Carrier: Whether at home or on the road, a baby carrier is a daily companion. Especially when kids are toddlers and mobile, I found a baby carrier incredibly necessary. Whether it’s for a stroll along the beach promenade when the little ones run out of steam or on the way to the right terminal at the airport, it’s a lifesaver.

Every mom and dad has their preferences, I know. For me, it was always crucial that the carrier sits low on the hips, is back-friendly, and ergonomic. It also needs at least one pocket for stashing your phone and keys, plus sun protection for the little one’s head. That’s why Ergobaby carriers have always been my go-to.

Diaper Bag: A diaper bag is a must-have if your toddler is still in diapers. Especially while traveling, you need to be ready for the “big event” anywhere, anytime. I’m a fan of minimalist diaper bags, carrying only the essentials: 2-5 diapers (depending on the length of your outing; our rule of thumb: pack 1 diaper for every hour on the journey), a travel pack of baby wipes, and a changing mat.

Pack n Play or Portable Crib: If your toddler isn’t sleeping in your bed and is too young for a regular bed or hotel sofa, a portable crib is a great option. Yes, they can be bulky, but a safe and good night’s sleep is worth schlepping it along.

As digital nomads, we often stay in hotels and furnished apartments. My experience has shown that hotels almost always provide baby cribs at no extra cost. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case with furnished apartments or Airbnbs. We got a bit lazy carrying around a portable crib and ended up buying a Pack n Play at each new location and selling it before leaving. This is definitely worth it for long stays like ours, lasting several months. For a shorter trip of just a few weeks, I’d recommend bringing a portable crib yourself.

First Aid Kit: Although we hope we never need it, accidents and sudden illnesses can happen anywhere. And who wants to search for a pharmacy in the middle of the night in a foreign country for child-friendly pain relief? So, it’s important to always have at least a small first aid kit with you.

Basic Medical Supplies:

• Adhesive Bandages: Various sizes for minor cuts and scrapes.
• Sterile Gauze Pads: For larger wounds.
• Adhesive Tape: To secure bandages or gauze.
• Antiseptic Wipes: For cleaning wounds before bandaging.
• Antibiotic Ointment: To prevent infection in cuts and scrapes.
• Tweezers: For removing splinters or ticks.
• Small Scissors: For cutting tape or gauze.
• Thermometer: A digital thermometer for checking temperature.
• Cotton Balls or Swabs: For applying ointments or cleaning wounds.

Medications and Treatments:

• Infant/Toddler Pain Reliever: Such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin) for pain or fever (age-appropriate).
• Anti-Histamine: For allergic reactions (e.g., Benadryl in the appropriate dosage).
• Anti-Itch Cream: Hydrocortisone cream for bug bites or rashes.
• Oral Rehydration Salts: For dehydration due to diarrhea or vomiting.
• Saline Nasal Spray: For nasal congestion.
• Teething Gel: If your toddler is teething.
• Motion Sickness Medicine: If your child is prone to motion sickness. We always carry seasickness tablets and take them preemptively before every ferry ride. Even if the sea is calm, sometimes just knowing you’ve taken something is enough—placebo effect!

Wet Wipes and Sanitizing Gel: I was never one of those moms who carried sanitizing gel and wet wipes to clean every toilet seat and airplane seat. But COVID really changed me. Now that society is more aware of how easily germs spread, we’ve become much more cautious, too. We always carry a mini travel-sized sanitizing gel and wet wipes, especially when visiting public places or using public transport: buses, planes, playgrounds, etc.

Breast Milk and Breast Pump: If your toddler is still breastfed, bringing a breast pump on the road can give you a bit more flexibility. Depending on your equipment, this might include bottles and cleaning tools.

Sippy Cups and Water Bottles: What would we do without our sippy cups? They are a must-have for any trip.

White Noise Machine and Baby Monitor: If creating a comfortable sleep environment for your toddler in the hotel room is a priority, you might want to bring along a white noise machine and a baby monitor. We never used either, but I know many parents who can’t go without them, even when traveling.

Extra Clothes and Change of Clothes: Always have at least one set of extra clothes on hand. You never know when your toddler will spill or decorate their outfit with their entire meal. When traveling in Asia, we always pack a warm sweater for each child because the difference between the outdoor heat and the ice-cold air-conditioned rooms can be huge.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance for your toddler is like a safety net for those “just in case” moments. Carrying the certificate means you’re ready to handle any surprises, from doctor visits to travel hiccups. We always have a copy of the travel insurance uploaded in our cloud/Dropbox. Take a look at my article on the top health insurance providers for digital nomad families.

Birth Certificate: This depends a bit on where you’re traveling, but here in Thailand, for example, babies and toddlers don’t need a passport; a birth certificate is enough. If your toddler has a passport, you can skip the birth certificate.

There’s a big exception, though: if one parent is traveling alone with the child, and the child doesn’t share the parent’s last name, you’ll need a whole pile of documents if you’re traveling abroad. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

• Child’s Passport: Ensure your child has a valid passport—essential for international travel.
• Birth Certificate: A copy of the child’s birth certificate showing both the parent’s and child’s names can help establish the relationship.
• Consent Letter: If the other parent isn’t traveling with you, a notarized letter of consent from the other parent is often required. This letter should state that the non-traveling parent gives permission for the child to travel with you, including contact information, trip details, and any relevant passport numbers.
• Court Orders or Legal Documents: If you have sole custody, it’s wise to bring a copy of the custody agreement or any relevant court orders. This documentation clarifies that you have the legal right to travel with your child.
• Supporting Identification: Some parents carry additional ID to show their connection to the child, like a marriage certificate (if applicable) or documentation of a name change if the surname difference is due to a change in marital status.
• Travel Itinerary: Having a detailed itinerary that includes flight details, accommodation, and planned return dates can also be helpful.

Toddler Travel Checklist for Different Modes of Transport

Road Trip with Toddlers

Road trips, in my opinion, are the easiest way to travel with toddlers. You can take breaks whenever you want, pack the car with toys, snacks, and essentials, and you don’t have to worry about disturbing fellow passengers if a tantrum happens.

Tips on Packing for a Road Trip with Toddlers

Going on a car journey with toddlers can be an adventure all on its own! To make sure the journey is as smooth and fun as possible, here are a few tips to help you pack like a pro:

• Plan for Comfort: Long car rides can be tough on little ones, so make sure their car seat is comfy and properly installed. Bring along their favorite blanket or stuffed animal to help them feel secure.
• Keep Snacks Handy: Toddlers get hungry (and cranky) quickly, so pack a variety of healthy snacks within easy reach. Think fruit slices, crackers, and maybe even a few treats for special moments.
• Stay Hydrated: Bring a couple of spill-proof sippy cups filled with water or their favorite drink. It’s a good idea to have extra water bottles with you in case one goes missing under the seat!
• Entertainment is Key: Keep boredom at bay with a small stash of toys, books, and maybe even a tablet for screen time if you’re okay with that. Rotate them out to keep things fresh.
• Pack for Messes: Let’s face it, road trips with toddlers can get messy. Have wet wipes, extra clothes, and plastic bags handy for spills, diaper changes, and the inevitable sticky hands.
• Breaks Are Your Friend: Plan for regular stops to let your toddler stretch their legs and burn off some energy. A quick run around a rest stop or a short walk can work wonders.
• Safety First: Don’t forget the essentials like a first aid kit, sunshades for the car windows, and of course, your toddler’s car seat. Safety and comfort go hand in hand on the road.

Road Trip Packing Checklist for Toddlers

Essentials:

• Toddler car seat (properly installed)
• First aid kit
• Wet wipes
• Diapers/pull-ups (if needed)
• Extra clothes (at least 2 sets)
• Plastic bags (for trash or soiled clothes)

Comfort Items:

• Favorite blanket or stuffed animal
• Small pillow
• Sunshades for car windows

Snacks & Drinks:

• Healthy snacks (fruit slices, crackers, etc.)
• Sippy cups (spill-proof)
• Cooler with extra drinks/snacks

Entertainment:

• Favorite toys
• Books or coloring books
• Tablet with downloaded shows or games (if allowed)
• Headphones (for older toddlers)

Miscellaneous:

• Portable potty or potty seat (if potty training)
• Hand sanitizer
• Sunscreen (if you’ll be stopping outside)
• Sunglasses or hat for your toddler
• Travel trash bags

Air Travel with Toddlers

Flying with toddlers can be an exciting yet challenging experience. Unlike road trips, where you can stop whenever you need, air travel requires a bit more planning. But don’t worry! With a few tricks up your sleeve, you can make the journey as smooth as possible.

Tips on Preparing for Air Travel with Toddlers

Here are some tips to help you navigate long-haul flights and domestic flights with toddlers:

• Comfort on Board: Plan ahead for comfort on the plane. Bring a cozy blanket, their favorite stuffed animal, or a small pillow to help them feel at home. Also, consider packing an extra change of clothes in your carry-on, just in case of spills or accidents.
• Snacks on Hand: Pack plenty of snacks to keep your toddler happy and satisfied. Even Major airlines might not always have what your little one likes, so bring along some of their favorites. Think easy-to-eat options like crackers, cheese sticks, or cut-up fruit. If I can preorder food, I always go for raw veggies or a fruit plate for our kids.
• Stay Hydrated: Airplane cabins can be dry, so keep your toddler hydrated with water or their favorite juice. A spill-proof sippy cup is a must-have for avoiding messes during turbulence.
• Entertainment Essentials: Keep your toddler entertained with a small selection of toys, books, or a tablet with downloaded shows. Don’t forget headphones designed for little ears! Rotate activities to keep them engaged throughout the flight.
  A big tip? Save the screen time as your secret weapon for when patience starts to wane—this way, it feels like a special treat. For domestic flights, you can get away with packing a bit lighter, but don’t skip the essentials. A new toy or activity book can work wonders in keeping your little one entertained, and it’s always smart to pack a few surprises they’ve never seen before. This keeps them engaged and curious during the flight, giving you a bit of a breather.
• Dealing with Ear Pressure: Takeoff and landing can be tough on little ears. Encourage your toddler to drink from a bottle or sippy cup or chew on a snack to help with ear pressure. For older toddlers, a lollipop can work wonders.
• Prepare for Messes: Airplanes can be tight spaces, so pack wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and a few plastic bags for easy clean-up. An extra shirt for you might not be a bad idea either—just in case.
• Plan for the Unexpected: Flights can be delayed, or plans might change, so be prepared with extra diapers, snacks, and activities to cover those unexpected moments.
• Car Seat with Bag: Traveling with toddler gear can feel like you’re moving a small army, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Investing in a good car seat bag can save you a lot of hassle (and keep your car seat clean!) when checking it in. These bags often come with shoulder straps, making them easier to carry through the airport.
• Compact Strollers: As for strollers, compact is the way to go. A lightweight, foldable stroller that’s easy to maneuver is a lifesaver when you’re navigating busy airports or exploring a new city. Many of these strollers can even be gate-checked, so you can use them right up until you board. Having the right gear not only keeps your toddler comfortable but also makes your travel experience much more manageable.

Air Travel Checklist for Toddlers

Essentials:

• Diapers/pull-ups (enough for the entire flight + extras)
• Wet wipes
• Change of clothes for your toddler (and maybe one for you)
• Plastic bags (for trash or soiled clothes)

Comfort Items:

• Blanket or small pillow
• Favorite stuffed animal or comfort item
• Extra pacifiers (if used)

Snacks & Drinks:

• Healthy snacks (cheese sticks, fruit, crackers)
• Sippy cup or bottle

Entertainment:

• Small toys or action figures
• Books or coloring books
• Tablet with downloaded shows or games
• Kid-friendly headphones

Miscellaneous:

• Hand sanitizer
• Travel-sized sunscreen (for after landing)
• Toddler-friendly travel pillow (if applicable)
• Car seat with travel bag
• A lightweight stroller or baby carrier for getting through the airport

Train Travel with Toddlers

Train travel with toddlers is a fantastic way to see the sights while keeping things relatively stress-free. Unlike air travel, you have more space to move around, and unlike road trips, someone else is doing the driving! With a bit of preparation, your train journey can be smooth and enjoyable for both you and your little one.

Tips on Preparing for Train Travel with Toddlers

Here are some tips to make the journey as pleasant as possible:

• Comfort on Board: Train rides can be long, so bring along items that make your toddler feel cozy and secure. A small blanket, their favorite stuffed animal, or a portable pillow can help make nap time easier. Don’t forget to dress your toddler in comfortable layers, as train temperatures can vary.
• Snacks for the Journey: While many trains offer dining options, it’s always a good idea to have your toddler’s favorite snacks on hand. Pack a variety of easy-to-eat options like fruit slices, crackers, or small sandwiches to keep hunger (and meltdowns) at bay.
• Stay Hydrated: Keep a spill-proof sippy cup filled with water or juice close by. Trains can get warm, and you’ll want to ensure your toddler stays hydrated throughout the trip. We always bring an additional water bottle to refill the kids’ bottles.
• Entertainment on the Go: To keep your toddler entertained, pack a small bag of toys, books, and perhaps a tablet with pre-loaded shows or games. The beauty of train travel is that you can also look out the window and enjoy the scenery, turning it into a game of spotting animals, cars, or anything else that might catch your toddler’s eye.
• Break Time: One of the best things about train travel is the ability to walk around. Take advantage of this by planning short strolls down the aisle to stretch your legs and give your toddler a change of scenery.
• Prepare for Messes: Just like any other form of travel, train rides can get messy. Pack wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and a couple of plastic bags for any unexpected spills or dirty clothes. A quick clean-up kit can make all the difference.
• Plan for Nap Time: Trains can be soothing, making them a great environment for a nap. Bring along a small travel pillow or blanket, and find a cozy spot by the window where your toddler can doze off.

Train Travel Checklist for Toddlers

Essentials:

• Diapers/pull-ups (enough for the entire trip + extras)
• Wet wipes
• Change of clothes for your toddler (and maybe one for you)
• Plastic bags (for trash or soiled clothes)

Comfort Items:

• Blanket or small pillow
• Favorite stuffed animal or comfort item
• Extra pacifiers (if used)

Snacks & Drinks:

• Healthy snacks (fruit slices, crackers, small sandwiches)
• Sippy cup or bottle

Entertainment:

• Small toys or action figures
• Books or coloring books
• Tablet with downloaded shows or games
• Kid-friendly headphones

Miscellaneous:

• Hand sanitizer
• Sunscreen (if you’ll be walking around outside during stops)
• Small blanket for nap time
• Travel bag or backpack for easy access to essentials

Download your FREE printable Travel with Toddler Checklist here!

Download

Final Thoughts on the Perfect Travel with Toddler Checklist

I hope I didn’t overwhelm you with all this information and the extensive checklist. But it’s important to list every possibility, and you can decide what’s essential for you.

Remember: Yes, traveling with toddlers is hard, but so is staying at home with them. Choose your hard and create memorable experiences and lasting memories as a whole family!

I wish you happy travels, a fabulous time, and only a few tantrums!

Do you have any questions? What’s the one item you can’t travel without when you’re with your toddler? Let me know in the comments!

Thanks for reading and for making me a part of your day. Yours, Lulu

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