The Ultimate Baby Travel Packing List for International Trips

The only thing that holds me back from booking an international trip is the amount of packing and luggage required for a baby. No but really, how can someone SO SMALL, require SO MUCH STUFF? 

Before our month-long trip to Europe, I made list after list to make sure I didn’t forget anything and to ensure I packed enough of everything. I may have gone slightly overboard… but hey, let’s take it as a learning lesson. 

Now that I’m back, here’s my refined list of what to pack for your little one.

Carry-On Essentials

Your carry-on should contain items you’ll need during the flight, layovers, and emergencies. Here’s what to include:

1. Baby Food and Snacks

• Formula or Breast Milk: Pre-measured formula packets and sterilized bottles, or a portable breast pump if needed.
• Snacks: Baby-friendly snacks such as teething biscuits, puffs, or fruit puree pouches.
• Utensils: Travel-friendly baby spoons and a spill-proof bowl or container.
• Sterilizer Bags or Kit: We bought a second hand 59S Travel Steriliser Bag which was super convenient both for our overnight stopover and whilst travelling. It also acted as a storage bag for all our bottles while travelling. A cheaper and more space-friendly alternative are the Medela Sterilisation Bags, however, you will need a microwave for this solution and will require you to have spare bottles if you cannot sterilise on the go.  
• Formula / Pump (if using): I always pack 1 extra formula tin (just in case…) If you’re still pumping, I highly highly recommend the Medela Freestyle – it’s a hands free pump which is discreet and comfortable to wear on the go. Also very easy to clean.

Tip: Pack more than you think you’ll need in case of delays or spills.

2. Diapering Supplies

• Diapers: 1 for every 2-3 hours of travel, plus minimum 2 extra per day of travel.
• Wipes: Travel-sized packs for diaper changes and quick cleanups.
• Changing Pad: A portable, foldable pad, easy to use and throw – highly recommend these BabyU ones. 
• Diaper Cream: Travel-sized tube to prevent rashes.
• Disposable Bags: For used diapers or soiled clothes.

3. Clothing and Blankets

• Extra Outfits: At least 3 changes of clothes for your baby, plus a spare top for yourself. 
• Blanket: Lightweight and multipurpose for warmth, swaddling, or as a nursing cover. We found our blanket super useful in the bassinet on the plane as well – helped soften the space for our baby girl. 

Tip: Dress your baby in layers for easy temperature adjustments.

4. Comfort Items

• Pacifiers: Bring a couple, if your baby uses them.
• Favorite Toy or Lovey: Something familiar to soothe your baby.
• Teething Toys: For comfort during long hours.

5. Health and Hygiene

• Medicines: Panadol, antihistamines (if your baby is at age when they can take them), saline spray  and any prescribed medications.
• Nasal Aspirator: For stuffy noses – I’ve said this before, but our Snotty Boss is a dream! 
• Hand Sanitizer: Baby-safe version for quick sanitizing.
• Anti-bacterial wipes: Wipe down everything on the plane that your baby may touch… I am not letting aeroplane bacteria crash my holiday! 

6. Travel Gear

• Baby Carrier: A soft carrier or sling for hands-free convenience. We absolutely LOVE our Nuna Cuddl if you were looking for options. 
• Stroller:  A compact, lightweight stroller that’s gate-check compatible. Highly recommend the Baby Jogger City Tour 2  – it’s lightweight, one hand fold AND lies flat. Also very reasonably priced. Also recommend buying a rain cover so your pram does not smell in the event you get caught in some wet days (also keeps baby dry!).
• Documents: Passport, birth certificate, and any necessary travel authorizations.

Tip: Keep important documents in a waterproof folder.

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Check-In Luggage Essentials

1. Clothing

• Outfits: Enough for the trip duration, factoring in potential spills (about 2 outfits per day).
• Sleepwear: Comfortable pyjamas and sleep sacks (I much prefer these over blankets which can be bulky and take up space).
• Seasonal Wear: Jackets, hats, or swimwear depending on the destination.

2. Feeding Supplies

• Extra Bottles: In case washing isn’t immediately possible.
• Baby Food: Non-perishable options for meals at your destination.
• Bottle Washing Liquid: I always like to carry my own – due to language barriers, it can sometimes be hard to find what you’re looking for whilst you’re overseas. 
• Kettle: I purchased a small cheap travel kettle from Kmart to take with me – at some hotels, I’ve seen rusted out kettles so I prefer to just not risk it and take my own from home. 

3. Diapers and Bathing Supplies

• Diapers and Wipes: Enough for the first few days until you can shop locally. If you have the capacity to take your own, I highly recommend this as sometimes babies can react to products they’ve never used before – especially if they have sensitive skin. 
• Diaper Disposal Bags / Change Mats: For convenience.
• Baby Shampoo and Soap: This two-in-one baby shampoo & bodywash from Cetaphil is one of our faves!
• Towels: Just your everyday baby towels. 

4. Sleep Items

• Sleep Aids: White noise machine,  a familiar bedtime storybook and their favourite snuggling toy. We do not leave the house without our Dreamegg Sound Machine – it’s super transportable, fits into small bags and has a huge variety of sounds and colours on the lights. 
• Cot Sheets: I always take my own cot sheets – the familiar smell of the sheets helps my baby girl adjust to her new space a little quicker. A bit like bringing a piece of home with us. 

5. Toys and Entertainment

• Toys: Compact toys for the plane ride and some independent play when you return home each day. I also love masking tape – it’s lightweight and easy to carry around and our baby girl loves pulling it off. Keeps her engaged for a long time. I bought this pack of 6 off Amazon and it get kept my little one truly busy.
• Books: Lightweight board books. Better yet, find local libraries that you can visit – we loved exploring all the baby spaces in libraries across Europe. 

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General Travel Tips

• Pack Light: Avoid overpacking by researching availability of baby supplies at your destination.
• Time Your Flights: Opt for flights during your baby’s usual sleep time for a more relaxed journey.
• Stay Organized: Use packing cubes or labeled ziplock bags to categorize items.
• Keep Calm: Babies pick up on your stress. Stay as relaxed and positive as possible.
• Plan for Delays: Always pack enough for unexpected layovers or schedule changes.

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With this packing guide, you’ll be well-prepared for your international trip. Having the right essentials at your fingertips can make a world of difference, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience for you and your baby. Happy packing!