Ultimate Travel Guide for Parents: Navigating Trips with Infants and Toddlers

Traveling with kids can be both an adventure and a challenge. As parents, we know how much thought and effort goes into making sure everything runs smoothly, from packing the right gear to handling unexpected surprises along the way. Whether you're setting out on a road trip or flying, planning ahead is key. This guide will help you navigate every step of the journey, ensuring a stress-free travel experience for you and your little ones. Let's dive in!

How to Pack Smart for Family Travel

Packing efficiently is crucial when traveling with kids. Babies and toddlers need a surprising amount of gear, and fitting everything in while staying organized can be tricky. Before you start, consider the space you have—whether it's the trunk of your car or the limited luggage space on a plane. Prioritize must-haves like car seats, strollers, and sleep solutions. For older infants and toddlers, feeding accessories are also essential. By planning ahead and selecting travel-friendly gear, you can make packing a breeze and avoid unnecessary stress once you're on the move.

Pro-tip: If you're planning to purchase new gear for an upcoming trip, be sure to order well in advance to avoid stock shortages or shipping delays that could leave you scrambling at the last minute. We recommend ordering at least a couple of weeks before your departure to ensure timely delivery and give yourself time to get familiar with all the features of your travel-friendly gear. In fact, some of these items are so versatile that you may want to add them to your gear arsenal even before your trip is booked—many travel-friendly options also work great for everyday use!

How to Pack Smart For a Family Road Trip

Packing up the car often feels like a game of Tetris, but a little organization can make all the difference. The first priority? A safe and comfortable car seat. Make sure it's properly installed and suitable for long journeys.

You’ll need to pack the car strategically— start by assessing your available space, from the trunk to the back seat, and prioritizing the essentials.

Evaluate your stroller needs. If you'll primarily be navigating smooth, paved surfaces, a compact travel stroller will suffice and save space. However, if your trip includes off-road adventures, you may need a more rugged stroller. If space allows, a mid-size stroller or an all-terrain option with a compact fold is a smart choice. For nature-focused trips, a Veer Cruiser provides a flat fold and is perfect for multiple kids.

Sleep solutions are also key. For newborns, a collapsible overnight sleep approved stroller bassinet with a foldable stand is ideal for travel. Older infants and toddlers will benefit from a compact travel crib, which doubles as a safe play space. If you have extra room, a collapsible baby lounger is a great addition for newborns, offering a safe and comfortable spot for hands-free time.

For feeding, traditional highchairs aren’t practical for travel, but there are great alternatives. A portable highchair that attaches directly to a table—like the Inglesina Fast Table Chair—is a lifesaver. The Stokke Clikk with included travel bag is another excellent option, breaking down into packable components for easy transport.

Family Road Trip Pro Tips:

• Minimize car seat time to two-hour intervals. Stop for diaper changes, feedings, and stretch breaks.
• Keep essentials within easy reach during the drive.
  
• Consider booking accommodations that provide baby gear to lighten your load.
  
• If you frequently visit family, invest in a second set of gear to leave at their home.

Choosing the Right Gear for Family Airplane Travel

Flying with children requires a different kind of strategy. Unlike road trips, where you can pack everything you might possibly need, airplane travel demands a more streamlined approach. Prioritize lightweight, essential gear that will meet your needs at your destination.

First, think about your car seat and stroller. The good news? Airlines allow you to check these items at no extra cost.

Airplane Travel With a Car Seat

Before booking your trip, you'll need to decide on seating arrangements. Infants and toddlers up to two years old can be considered a “lap child", meaning they won’t have their own seat and will need to be held for the duration of the flight. In this case, your car seat will have to be checked.

Pro tip: Invest in a comfortable, age-appropriate baby carrier. This allows for a hands-free experience in-flight and can aid in navigating the airport.

If you’re luggage checking a car seat, portability and weight are less of a concern. However, investing in a high-quality travel bag is essential to protect your car seat, especially if you're bringing your primary one to ensure consistent safety.

If you purchase a separate seat for your child, you can opt to bring their car seat on board. Make sure it’s FAA-approved—this will be indicated on a sticker on the car seat’s body. Consider a lightweight car seat for easy portability through the airport.

For a full guide on travel-friendly car seats head to >>> Travel Car Seat Run-Down

Airplane Travel With a Stroller

Compact, cabin-approved travel strollers are now the go-to for air travel. These strollers provide peace of mind by staying with you throughout the flight, reducing the risk of loss or damage. However, they often have limited storage and may not perform well on rugged terrain.

When choosing a stroller for travel, consider the full scope of your trip. If your destination requires long periods of stroller use on uneven terrain, it may be worth bringing a more robust stroller and opting for gate check instead.

Gate-checking is a fairly simple process: you’ll have access to your stroller in the airport and hand it off to the flight crew at boarding. It will be stored in cargo and returned to you at the plane’s exit upon arrival.

Pro tip: Airlines are notorious for damaging strollers beyond use, and while you can seek reimbursement, that won’t help if you’re left stroller-less for your trip. Invest in a high-quality stroller travel bag to protect your gear.

Bonus pro tip: Maximize the space in your stroller travel bag! Once the stroller is packed, you’ll likely have extra room. Plan ahead and use the extra space to stash diapers, blankets, or other soft essentials. And best of all, this bag checks for free!

For a full guide on travel-friendly strollers head to >>> Best Travel Strollers

Sleep Solutions For Airplane Travel

For newborns, opt for a stroller with an overnight sleep-approved bassinet. The bassinet can be stored in the stroller travel bag along with the stroller frame.

For infants and toddlers, bring a lightweight, compact travel crib and check it with your luggage. A travel crib doubles as both a sleep system and a safe play space during your trip.

Most Airplane-Friendly Travel Cribs

✓ Lightest Weight: Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light

✓ Premium Lightweight: Bugaboo Stardust

✓ Most Premium Lightweight: Nuna PAAL

Diaper Bag Travel Essentials

Packing your diaper bag requires meticulous planning. As with all travel, prepare for the worst and hope for the best. Pack enough supplies to cover any airport delays, as well as the duration of your flight.

Choose a bag with plenty of interior and exterior pockets to stay organized on the go.

Pro tip: Security will likely rifle through your bag, and they move quickly—things will get pulled out and tossed back in randomly. Don’t get discouraged. Take a moment to reset, reorganize, and move on when you're ready.

Traveling with little ones may require extra planning, but with the right gear and mindset, it can be a smooth and enjoyable experience!

What to Pack in Your Diaper Bag

For Diaper Changes:

✓ Portable changing pad

✓ Diapers

✓ Portable wipe dispenser with wipes

✓ Disposable diaper bags

✓ Diaper cream

✓ Baby lotion

✓ Extra outfit and onesie

For Feeding:

✓ Formula/bottles

✓ Breast milk in a cooler bag

✓ Bib

✓ Burp cloth

✓ Nursing cover

✓ Baby food and spoon

To Keep Baby Happy:

✓ At least two pacifiers with a clip

✓ Pacifier wipes

✓ Age-appropriate toys, such as a rattle, lovey, soft book, etc.

✓ Snacks for toddlers

For Protection:

✓ Sunscreen

✓ Hand sanitizer

✓ Light blanket

✓ Weather-appropriate hat

✓ Small first aid kit

For Parents:

✓ Water, especially for nursing moms

✓ Extra shirt, because spit-ups happen!

✓ Snacks

✓ Wallet, keys, phone, and charger

Pro Tips for Air Travel

Before You Book:

✓ Try to book direct flights whenever possible to avoid the hassle of layovers and missed connections.

✓ If a layover is necessary, allow ample time to navigate the airport with your child.

At the Airport:

✓ Arrive early. Rushing through security and boarding with a little one in tow is never fun.

✓ If checking a stroller, use the travel bag’s extra space for lightweight items like diapers or blankets. It checks for free!

✓ Invest in high-quality travel bags for your gear, and consider brands that offer travel protection with their travel bags.

For Baby Comfort:

✓ If bringing your baby as a lap child, bring along a comfortable, breathable baby carrier.

✓ Feed baby or have them suck on a pacifier during takeoff and landing to help reduce ear discomfort from pressure changes on the way up and the way down.

For Diaper Changes:

✓ Keep a pair of diapers, a small pack of wipes, and an extra onesie inside your portable changing mat.

✓ Most airplanes have at least one bathroom equipped with a changing station, but space is tight. Stay organized so you can quickly grab only the essentials needed.

Embrace the Journey

Traveling with infants and toddlers may feel overwhelming, but with careful planning and the right gear, it can be a smooth and enjoyable experience. Whether you're packing the car for a road trip or navigating airport security, taking the time to organize, prioritize, and prepare will help you focus on making memories instead of managing chaos. Every trip will have its challenges, but with each adventure, you'll become more confident and seasoned in traveling as a family. So, pack smart, stay flexible, and most importantly, enjoy the journey! Safe travels!

Family Travel with Babies and Toddlers FAQ

What is the best way to travel with a baby or toddler?

The best way to travel with a baby or toddler is to plan ahead, pack strategically, and choose baby gear that matches your trip. For road trips, prioritize a properly installed car seat, a stroller that fits your destination, and a safe sleep solution. For airplane travel, consider whether you want to bring a cabin-approved travel stroller, gate-check a larger stroller, bring a car seat on board, or check larger gear in protective travel bags.

What baby gear should I pack for a family road trip?

For a family road trip, prioritize a safe car seat, a stroller, a sleep solution, feeding gear, diaper bag essentials, and any age-specific items your child will need at your destination. Newborns may benefit from a stroller with an overnight sleep-approved bassinet, while infants and toddlers often need a travel crib, and portable highchair.

What is the best stroller for a road trip with a newborn?

The best stroller for a road trip with a newborn is one that offers a comfortable from-birth setup, such as an overnight sleep-approved bassinet or a lay-flat newborn-friendly seat. Families who have room in the car may prefer a mid-size or all-terrain stroller for added comfort, while families trying to save space may prefer a lightweight stroller frame with a compatible bassinet.

What is the best stroller for a road trip with an infant or toddler?

The best stroller for a road trip with an infant or toddler depends on your destination. For smooth, paved surfaces, a compact travel stroller like the Bugaboo Butterfly 2 Plus or UPPAbaby Minu V3 is easy to pack and convenient to use. For more varied terrain, options like the Nuna TRIV LX, Silver Cross Breez, or Silver Cross Cove 2 may provide a smoother ride and stronger everyday performance.

Should I bring a travel crib when traveling with a baby?

Yes, a travel crib is one of the most useful pieces of baby gear to bring when traveling with an infant or toddler. A travel crib provides a familiar sleep space and can also double as a safe play space during your trip. Lightweight and compact options are especially helpful for air travel and hotel stays.

What is the best travel crib for airplane travel?

The best travel crib for airplane travel is lightweight, compact, and easy to check with luggage. Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light is a strong lightweight option, Bugaboo Stardust is a premium lightweight choice, and Nuna PAAL is a high-end option for families who want a more elevated travel crib.

Should I bring a car seat on the airplane?

Bringing a car seat on the airplane can be helpful if your child has their own seat and the car seat is approved for aircraft use. It gives babies and toddlers a familiar place to sit and may make the flight more comfortable. If your child is flying as a lap child, the car seat will need to be checked instead.

What is the best car seat for airplane travel with a newborn or infant?

For newborns and infants, the best car seats for airplane travel are lightweight infant car seats with baseless installation or travel-friendly designs. The Doona Infant Car Seat is especially convenient because it functions as both a stroller and infant car seat, while lightweight infant car seats like the UPPAbaby Aria V2 and Nuna PIPA aire are easier to carry through the airport.

What is the best car seat for airplane travel with a toddler?

The best toddler car seat for airplane travel depends on whether you want premium protection, lightweight portability, or a seat used mainly for travel. The Nuna RAVA Next, Nuna EXEC Next, and UPPAbaby Rove are strong premium options with available travel bags, while the Maxi-Cosi Romi and WAYB Pico are lightweight choices designed for easier travel.

What is the best travel car seat for big kids?

For big kids, a foldable booster seat can be helpful for travel. The Cybex Solution G2 Foldable Booster Seat is a strong option for families who want a booster that is easier to pack and transport.

Is it better to bring a cabin-approved stroller or gate-check a stroller?

A cabin-approved stroller is best if you want to keep your stroller with you through the airport and store it in the overhead bin when allowed by the airline. Gate-checking may be better if you need a larger stroller with more storage, better suspension, or stronger performance at your destination. The right choice depends on your child’s age, your destination, and how much stroller use you expect during the trip.

What is the best cabin-approved stroller for airplane travel?

The best cabin-approved stroller for airplane travel is compact, lightweight, easy to fold, and comfortable for your child. For newborns, strong options include the Silver Cross Nia, Bugaboo Butterfly 2 Plus, Joolz Aer2, Silver Cross Clic, and UPPAbaby Minu V3. For toddlers, parents may prioritize the Bugaboo Butterfly 2 Plus for its tall seat, the Cybex Coya for its higher seat weight capacity, or the Nuna VIAA cabn for its high-capacity storage basket.

What is the best stroller to gate-check for airplane travel?

The best stroller to gate-check is one that offers the comfort and performance you want at your destination, paired with a protective travel bag. The Nuna TRIV LX is a strong newborn-friendly option, the UPPAbaby Cruz V3 offers a large storage basket, and the Nuna TRVL dubl is a helpful double stroller option for families traveling with two children.

Do I need a stroller travel bag?

Yes, a stroller travel bag is highly recommended if you are checking or gate-checking a stroller. A high-quality travel bag helps protect your stroller from damage during air travel. Some brands also offer travel protection when their stroller is packed inside the brand’s approved travel bag, which can add extra peace of mind.

Can I pack diapers or blankets in my stroller travel bag?

Yes, if there is extra room in your stroller travel bag after the stroller is packed, you can use that space for lightweight soft items like diapers, blankets, or other flexible essentials. This can help save space in your suitcase while keeping important items available during your trip.

What should I pack in a diaper bag for travel?

A travel diaper bag should include diaper change essentials, feeding supplies, comfort items, protection items, and parent essentials. Pack diapers, wipes, a portable changing pad, diaper cream, an extra outfit, bottles or snacks, pacifiers, small toys, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, a light blanket, a small first aid kit, water, snacks, wallet, keys, phone, and charger.

What should I keep easily accessible while flying with a baby?

Keep diapers, wipes, an extra onesie, feeding supplies, pacifiers, snacks, and comfort items easy to reach during the flight. A portable changing mat packed with a few diaper-change essentials can make airplane bathroom changes easier because space is limited.

How can I help my baby’s ears during takeoff and landing?

Feeding baby or offering a pacifier during takeoff and landing can help reduce ear discomfort from pressure changes. Sucking and swallowing may help babies feel more comfortable as the plane climbs and descends.

Should I bring a baby carrier on the airplane?

Yes, a breathable baby carrier can be very helpful during air travel, especially if your baby is flying as a lap child. A carrier can make it easier to move through the airport hands-free and can help keep baby close and comfortable during travel.

What is the best baby gear for traveling with multiple children?

For multiple children, consider a lightweight double stroller, compact double stroller, or stroller wagon depending on your destination. A Nuna TRVL dubl is a helpful lightweight double stroller option, while a Veer Cruiser City XL can support families who need more rugged multi-child transportation.

How early should I arrive at the airport with a baby or toddler?

Arrive early when flying with a baby or toddler. Extra time helps reduce stress during check-in, security, stroller or car seat handling, diaper changes, feeding breaks, and boarding.

Is it better to book a direct flight when traveling with kids?

Yes, booking a direct flight is usually easier when traveling with babies, toddlers, or young children. Direct flights help avoid the stress of layovers, missed connections, extra boarding, and navigating multiple airports with baby gear.

Why Should You Trust Bambi Baby?

At Bambi Baby, our decades-long commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has established us as a trusted authority in the baby products' industry. With 50 years of experience, we have developed a deep understanding of what parents require when choosing the perfect gear. Our expert team is dedicated to guiding you through this important decision with personalized recommendations, ensuring that the gear you pick perfectly matches your lifestyle and needs.

Still have questions? 

Bambi Baby experts are ready to connect! If you have any more questions regarding family travel gear, you can reach us at cs@bambibaby.com or chat with us on our website. We would love to hear from you!

We would also love to see you in store! Feel free to visit any of our store locations in New York, New Jersey, or Miami if you prefer personalized assistance from one of our experts. We're here to ensure you find the perfect gear for your baby with confidence and ease.