For something so little, babies require so much stuff. It’s easy to get overwhelmed when trying to pack all the things when you travel with a little. Add in holiday airport crowds and family dynamics, and it’s enough to drive you to the brink. But it’s immensely easier if you follow these guidelines on what to ship ahead, what you’d never think to pack, and genius tips to make anywhere feel (almost) like home.

Amazon To The Rescue

Don’t try and explain to your Mom which organic, paleo baby food and compostable diapers your child needs. Save you both the frustration and Amazon Serenity Kids pouches and Eco Boom diapers straight there. 

Total Blackout

If your little is accustomed to blackout shades, add blackout garbage bags and painter's tape (won’t take paint off) to the above Amazon shipment. You’ll be thankful for the zzz’s when you get there. 

Bring The Noise

Now is not the time to try and break habits. If your kid is accustomed to sleeping with a sound machine, pack a travel version (with an adapter) or download the Sound Sleeper app on the iPad.

Get Lit

Don’t let “the dark” haunt your holidays. Ease their fears and pack a travel nightlight (with bonus USB port to plug the above iPad into).

Avoid Germs

Carpeted hotel room floors are downright disgusting. Put towels or a blanket on the floor for them to play on.

Be Prepared

When your child wakes with a fever at 3am, you don’t want to be tracking down an open pharmacy. Be prepared with an emergency bag that contains the essentials – Tylenol, Advil, thermometer, Neosporin, and Elmo band-aids. 

Stock The Mini Fridge

Room service can be sooooo slow (and expensive). Stop at a convenience mart and stock up on cereal, milk, yogurt, and snacks to keep in the room. A hangry kid is up there with a judgy mother-in-law.

Save Yourself

Don’t be that stressed out mom constantly hovering as little fingers explore every socket and sharp corners beg to bonk heads. Just come prepared to childproof the space in a snap.

Comfy Is Key

Guaranteeing everyone gets good sleep is the key to “happy” holidays. If your child is sensitive to fabrics, pack a sheet and pillowcase from home (they fold up super-small). You never know what you’re going to get at a hotel or your in-laws’ house.

Splish Splash

If you’re booking a hotel, opt for one with a pool. It gives you an activity and ensures everyone’s tuckered out for bedtime (even with a time change).

Don’t Schlepp It All

Schlepping and checking car seats can be the last straw. Rent one with your rental car – Avis makes it super-easy. If you need one for a car at the destination, there’s likely a local service that rents them, or ship a cheapie (but safe) one like Cosco Scenera. 

Ditch The Wheels

Ditto on the big fancy stroller. Wear your baby in a carrier through security or buy a cheap umbrella stroller. If it gets all banged up or you leave it in the rental car trunk by accident, no biggie.

 

Main Photo Courtesy of @discoverwithelysium