💼 Gear & logistics · 0 to 18 months
🧳 Packing for your baby: the essentials, not the whole house
Pack for the journey, delays and the first few days. Travelling light is fine; relying on a product you can’t find at your destination isn’t.
What you’ll need
- A packing list shared between both parents.
- Separate pouches for changing, feeding, clothes and care supplies.
- Details of laundry facilities, shops and equipment at your accommodation.
Before and during the journey
1. Work out what you actually need
- Start with your baby’s usual nappy changes, clothes, feeds and medicines. Add a reserve for delays.
- Adjust quantities for the weather, length of stay and laundry options. A seven-day packing list won’t suit everyone.
2. Keep essentials with you
- A full change of clothes, feeding supplies and necessary medicines should stay accessible.
- If your luggage travels separately, spread some essentials across your bags: one lost suitcase shouldn’t leave you without everything.
3. Check before planning to buy locally
- Check shops and product availability before cutting down your supplies.
- For your baby’s usual formula, a special diet or medicine, don’t rely on finding a random alternative. Ask for advice before making a change.
4. Check borrowed or hired equipment
- Ask for details of the cot and highchair, not just whether the accommodation has a baby kit.
- Check condition, instructions, recalls and age suitability. For a car seat, knowing its history is essential.
5. Between us
Make the list together, then check it together. You can leave the third musical toy behind. Documents, feeds and a suitable place to sleep are less negotiable.
Classic mistakes
- ❌ Buying two of everything Check what you already have and what you’ll actually use.
- ❌ Relying on a photo of a baby kit Ask for the model, condition and instructions.
- ❌ Packing essentials at the bottom The first nappy change won’t wait until the end of the holiday.
Questions dads ask
How many clothes do we need?
It depends on usual clothing changes, the length of your stay, the climate and laundry facilities. Allow a buffer rather than following a universal number.
Can we pack fewer everyday supplies?
Yes, if availability is confirmed and you keep enough for the journey, delays and arrival.
A local detail, or your own experience with this guide? Write to the team
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Read next
- 🛂 Travelling with your baby: documents and health
- 🩺 Your baby’s travel first aid and medicines kit
- 🚆 Taking the train with a little one
- 🚗 In the car with your baby: seats, breaks and safety
- 👶 Baby carrier or pushchair: choosing for your journey
- 🍼 Feeding your baby while travelling: breastfeeds, bottles and meals
- 😴 On arrival: safe accommodation and the first night
When in doubt, contact your doctor or midwife. For a life-threatening emergency, call 111.