Travelling with a toddler can be a lot of fun, but it can also be a bit of a challenge. One of the most important things you can do to make your trip go smoothly is to have a pre-departure to-do list and a packing checklist. Don’t forget to bring a piece of cabin-size luggage to pack your toddler’s essentials for smoother air travel!
Here is the ultimate guide to packing for your next vacation with your toddler.
We have included bonus checklists for cold weather, tropical climate and beach vacations too!
Pre-departure To-do List
1. Check your passports and visas to ensure they are valid for the duration of your trip.
Tip: Always check the visa and Covid-19 travel requirements before booking your trip to avoid future headaches!
2. Make copies of your passports, visas, and other necessary documents, and store them safely.
3. Check the weather at your destination and pack accordingly.
4. Plan your itinerary and make any necessary reservations.
5. Ensure you have all necessary travel documents, such as flight tickets, hotel reservations, and rental car reservations.
Tip: It’s always a good idea to print hard copies of these documents!
6. Purchase travel insurance to protect yourself and your family in case of emergencies.
7. Notify your bank and credit card companies that you will travel to avoid any issues with your accounts.
8. Make arrangements for all important matters at home, such as pet care and parcel delivery.
Packing Checklist For Your Toddler
Clothing
1. 1-2 outfits per day
Tip: It’s always good to pack more clothes in case of accidents!
2. Extra pairs of socks and underwear
3. Pyjamas
Tip: Pack an extra pair of pyjamas or use the most comfortable outfit as sleepwear!
4. At least 1 light jacket or sweater
5. Swimwear for water activities
Additional checklist for cold weather:
Winter coat
Extra jacket or sweater
Snow boots
Warm hat and gloves
Thick socks
Thermal underwear or long johns
Additional checklist for tropical climate or beach vacations:
Swimwear
Sun hat
Sunglasses
Sandals, slippers, or flip flops
Rash guard or swim shirt for added sun protection
Bathrobe or light hoodie to wear over swimwear
Bath towel
Water bottle for hydration
Travel gears
1. Cabin-size luggage (check cabin luggage requirements with your airline)
Why? Air travel is an exciting yet overwhelming experience for your little one.
Ensure that you pack your child’s entertainment equipment, an extra set of outfits, snacks, and anything you can think of!
Tip: Bring a piece of cabin-size luggage that comes with a seat for your little one to ride on for easy travelling!
2. Travel stroller (good to have!)
Tip: If you are bringing your own stroller, remember to check with your airline if you can check in your stroller.
Most airlines provide this service, so you do not need to purchase a cabin-friendly stroller!
Don’t have a stroller yet? Check out the Thule stroller range for city and all-terrain adventures!
3. Hip seat carrier
Looking for an ergonomic Hip Seat Baby Carrier? Check out the MiaMily Hipster Plus: 2-in-1 Carrier & Hip Seat
Toiletries
1. Diapers and wipes
2. Portable changing pad
Tip: Look for a compact portable changing pad for easy packing! Check out the Cho Portable Changing Pads here.
3. Baby shampoo and body wash
4. Lotion or moisturiser
5. Toothbrush and toothpaste
6. Water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher
Why? This protects your little one from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Find your baby sunscreen here.
Note: Avoid sunscreen and prolonged direct sunlight for children under 6 months old. Seek a paediatrician’s advice for before usage.
7. Insect repellent (optional)
8. First aid kit with band-aids, thermometer, and any necessary medication
Additional checklist for cold weather:
Lip balm to prevent chapped lips
Hand and body lotion or moisturiser to prevent dry skin
Saline nasal spray to help with congestion
Vapor rub for nighttime coughs and congestion
Additional checklist for tropical climate or beach vacations:
After-sun lotion or Aloe vera gel to soothe sunburn
Beach bag to carry all your essentials
Entertainment
1. Favourite toys and books
2. Soothers, grabbers, or security blankets
Tip: Don’t forget their chou chous! Check out Lollibly’s Cho Pillows here.
3. Tablet or phone with child-friendly content
4. Snacks and drinks
Additional checklist for cold weather:
Indoor activities such as colouring books, puzzles, and board games
Additional checklist for tropical climate or beach vacations:
Sand toys, such as buckets and shovels
Inflatable pool or floaties for the pool or ocean
Beach umbrella or sun shelter for added shade (optional)
Ready, Jet Set, Go!
Travelling with a toddler can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning and preparation. With these pre-departure and packing checklists, you can ensure that you have everything you need for your trip and make your travels with your little one as stress-free as possible. Happy travels!
Explore the world with Josh & Cherie
Ready for more adventures? Check out the 10 Kid-Friendly Travel Destinations From Singapore for your next getaway! Josh & Cherie Explores more lifestyle, food, and fun in these articles here!