First holiday abroad with a baby: what to pack

The first time you travel abroad with a baby it can feel like you need to take everything. You don’t. Pack what keeps your baby safe, fed, rested and comfortable, and plan to buy the bulky basics when you arrive. This list is a starting point you can trim for your own trip.

Make this a list for you and your baby.
Zipi builds it around the trip, the weather and who’s going, and keeps it for next time.

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Check these first

The things people forget most. Everything else can be bought, borrowed or worked around.

Passports and tickets
Medication, with the doses
Phone chargers and a multi-plug
Comfort toy (and a spare if you have one)
Glasses or contact lenses
Toothbrushes
Headphones
Sun cream, if it’s sunny

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Before you go

A passport for your baby
Travel insurance that covers the whole family
A GHIC or other health cover, if it applies to where you’re going
Check the vaccinations and advice for your destination with your health professional
Check what your accommodation provides (cot, highchair, bath)

Feeding

Formula, enough for the journey and the first day
Bottles, a steriliser or sterilising tablets
Sterilised water or bottled water as advised
A breast pump or feeding cover, if you use them
Weaning food and a spoon, if they’ve started solids

Sleep

A travel cot, unless one is provided
A fitted sheet and a sleeping bag
A comfort toy and a night light
A sun or blackout blind for the room
A white noise machine, if you use one

Changing and clothes

Nappies for the journey and the first days
Wipes, cream and nappy bags
Light layers, a sun hat and a warm layer
Socks and booties
Swimwear and swim nappies

Health

Baby pain relief and a thermometer
Insect repellent suitable for babies, if recommended
Plasters, sterile wipes and a first aid kit
Any regular medication, with doses
Nasal drops or saline

You can usually buy these when you get there: Nappies and wipes, Sun cream, Baby food, Water. Leave them at home to save space in your case.

Tips

Buy nappies, wipes and bulky baby food at your destination, if you can.
Pack a change of clothes for you in the hand luggage, in case of a spill.
Keep a list of the phone number for emergency services and your insurer.
Be kind to yourself: the first holiday is about practising.

Common questions

Does a baby need a passport to travel abroad?

Yes, babies and children need their own passport to travel abroad from the UK. Check how long it takes to arrive before you book.

What should I pack for a baby abroad?

Documents, feeds and feeding things, a travel cot, nappies, light clothes and a sun hat, and medication. Buy the rest there if you can.

What can I buy at my destination?

Often nappies, wipes, sun cream, baby food and toiletries. Check what is available where you are going.

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