Baby packing list for a holiday: what to pack for a baby

Babies need fewer clothes than you think and more of the small things than you’d expect. This list covers the first year or so. Use it as a starting point and change it to fit how your baby feeds, sleeps and travels.

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Feeding

Bottles, teats and a bottle brush
Formula or expressed milk, plus a spare day’s worth
Steriliser or sterilising bags
Breast pump, if you use one
Baby food, pouches or snacks, if they’ve started solids
Weaning spoons and a bowl
Sippy cup or open cup
Portable highchair or booster, if you’ll want one

Getting around

Buggy or pram
Baby carrier or sling
Car seat, if you’re hiring or driving
Changing bag

Health

Baby paracetamol or ibuprofen, in the right dose for age and weight
Thermometer
Nasal drops or saline spray
Teething gel or teething toys
Sun cream suitable for babies, if they’re old enough
Plasters and a small first aid kit

Documents

Passports (children need their own)
Boarding passes or tickets
Travel insurance details
EHIC or GHIC card, if it applies to where you’re going
Booking confirmations
Cash and cards
Copies of passports, stored separately

Tips

Take a small supply of nappies and wipes and buy the rest when you arrive. They’re bulky.
Put the next 24 hours of feeding, changing and clothes in your hand luggage, in case a bag is delayed.
Check the airline’s rules on formula, milk and sterilised water going through security.
Ask the accommodation if they provide a cot, highchair or bath before packing your own.

Common questions

How many nappies should I take on holiday with a baby?

Enough for the journey and the first day, usually 8 to 12 for a flight, and then buy more at your destination if you can.

Do babies need their own passport?

Yes. Every child needs their own passport to travel abroad, however young. Check the validity rules for where you’re going.

What should be in a baby’s hand luggage?

Nappies, wipes, a changing mat, feeding supplies, a change of clothes for baby and for you, a comfort item and any medicines. See our baby flight list for the full set.

One list per person, one link for whoever helps.
Send the children’s list to a partner, nanny or grandparent. They tick things off on their phone.

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This is general guidance. Check your airline, destination and your child’s own needs before you travel. Privacy · Terms