Some of you may recall that I have done this post a few times now; however, with winter travel plans in the making, I have had a few people ask about my list.
Travel is a big part of life — we all do it! Whether it’s a weekend to the lake, a visit to long distance friends and family or a jet-setting vacation to some far-away land. Not to mention with Christmas only a few weeks away, many people will be packing their suitcase to head off to spend the holidays with loved ones near and far!
Because I only wished I had this list (it has taken numerous trips to perfect (and I am sure I will always find something more that I could bring along)), I am going to provide a check-list for what to pack for the mini vacationer in your life!
*Note that this list can be tailored for any trip you are planning!
I hope you find this list helpful:
Playpen
Stroller (including insect net and uv protector)
Carseat
Carrier of some sort (makes touring easier if you can wear baby on you, rather than having to lug the stroller around)
Diapers (including day/night and swim appropriate)
Wipes and bum cream
Toys and books (the types and numbers will depend on the age of the child and the length of the trip)
Life Jacket/flotation device/kiddie pool if the trip involves water
Seat for child to sit and eat in (most places will have highchairs, but you never know…)
Sunscreen (Be sure it is safe for the age of your child. I highly recommend Badger products sold at many health food stores. It can also be ordered on-line. Another favourite is Think Baby)
Mosquito Repellant (Organic is best. West Coast Kids sells an amazing coconut and lime body spray that acts as a bug repellant)
Umbrella for the beach/rain
Pajamas (depending on length of trip — I do one sleeper for every two nights)
Shorts/pants (depending on length of trip — I tend to do one for every two days)
T-shirts/onsies (depending on length of trip — I tend to do one for every day)
Swimming suits (Babies R’Us sells adorable and affordable swim shirts and one pieces that have UV protection built in)
A sweater or coat (depending on destination — always good to have at least one)
Socks/shoes/sandals (again, depending on destination)
Baby food/snacks/formula (perhaps a breast pump)
Eating utensils (bottles, spoons, bowls, cups, and bibs)
Travel bag (for the beach or pool)
Soothers (if baby is still using one)
Noise machine (to help baby sleep in a new place or on the go)
Blankets/swaddlers/burp cloths/change pad
Disinfecting wipes for surfaces, toys and soothers
Vitamins or other medications
Towel/face cloth
Sunglasses
Sun hat(s) — I also pack a toque when we go camping incase the evenings cool off
Toys and books
Beach/pool toys
Bath products (soaps, lotions, toys)
Gum wipes/tooth brush/tooth paste
Hair brush or comb (bows and headbands for the little lady)
Headphones (to keep noise out)
Spare set of clothes in travel bag/carry-on (airplane or car) and extra diapers
Baby Tylenol (or other pain medication — especially if baby is teething)
Thermometer
Nasal aspirator/saline drops
Newly added to the list *** winter coat, splash pants (or snow pants), toque, scarf, mittens, boots, warm socks
I also found it helpful to bring baby friendly/safe hand soap, dish soap, stain remover and laundry detergent especially if staying in a hotel.
*Always check the weather and travel notices for the destinations you are traveling to!
**Also ensure that you pack travel documents (passport, tickets, vaccination records (if necessary)), have vaccinations up-to-date and health/travel insurance in order). Also remember that if you are traveling without the baby’s other parent and leaving the country, you will require a letter from the other parent grating permission to take baby out of Canada (for a sample letter, go to: https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/children/consent-letter
AH! This list is exhausting… better to have too much than too little when traveling with your mini vacationer!
Happy travels, and an early happy Canada Day to celebrate Canada’s 150th!
M.J.
