Travelling with a baby can feel like a logistical challenge, but with thoughtful preparation, it can also be incredibly rewarding. The key to a stress-free trip is knowing what to pack, what to rent, and what you can rely on your destination to provide. This comprehensive guide, based on personal experiences, will help you navigate your baby travel needs with confidence.
What to Pack: Essential Items for Every Trip
Packing the right baby gear is crucial to maintaining your little one’s comfort and routine. Focus on lightweight, versatile items that travel well.
1. Strollers
A lightweight, compact stroller is a must for any trip. For us, the Babyzen YOYO2 was invaluable—it’s cabin-approved, folds easily, and fits in overhead compartments, sparing us the hassle of gate-checking. We used it for years, up until our son turned three, as it’s durable and perfect for both city breaks and beach holidays.
Other Overhead-Friendly Strollers:
Joolz Aer+: Compact and stylish, with a large storage basket and one-handed folding.
Silver Cross Jet: Cabin-approved and designed for newborns with a lie-flat recline.
Cybex Libelle: One of the smallest and lightest strollers, ideal for navigating busy airports.
Tip: Always check your airline’s stroller policy to ensure smooth boarding.
2. Sleep Solutions
Maintaining your baby’s sleep routine is critical while travelling.
Travel Cribs: The BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light is lightweight and quick to set up, while the Nuna Sena Aire adds luxury with its ventilated design and bassinet attachment.
Sleepyhead/DockATot: Perfect for younger babies, this portable lounger creates a familiar sleeping environment. We used ours for naps and lounging, especially in villas and hotels without a crib.
Tip: Confirm with your accommodation whether a crib or cot is provided, and check its condition to decide if bringing your own is necessary.
3. Feeding Essentials
Packing smart feeding equipment can simplify mealtimes.
Milk Powder: Easier to pack and transport than ready-made milk. Use compartmented plastic containers to pre-portion feeds.
Sterilising Bags: Microwave steriliser bags like Medela are compact and ideal for quick sterilisation.
Swim Nappies: Essential for beach holidays or hotels with pools. Brands like Huggies Little Swimmers are reliable and widely available.
Portable High Chair? Personally, we never found the need to bring one with the hotels we chose, who always provided these. Bringing a portable high chair is only advisable if you’re staying in a villa that doesn’t provide one or visiting places where renting isn’t possible. Many luxury villas and hotels include high chairs, so always check in advance.
4. Toys and Playtime Gear
Keeping your baby entertained is vital for a smooth trip.
Compact Toys: Soft books, stacking cups, and teething rings are great for travel. Stacking cups, in particular, are versatile—they can be used at the beach or during bath time.
Travel Playmat: A waterproof mat like the Skip Hop Outdoor Blanket is perfect for tummy time or picnics on the beach.
Interactive Toys: A toy with lights and sounds, like the VTech Baby First Steps Walker, can keep toddlers entertained during downtime at a villa.
What to Rent: When Renting is the Better Option
Renting bulky baby gear can save luggage space and make travelling more convenient.
1. Car Seats
Most car hire companies now offer car seats and booster seats as add-ons. These are typically cost-efficient, meet local safety standards, and eliminate the risk of damage from checking your own.
Tips:
Reserve the car seat in advance to ensure availability.
Confirm the type (infant car seat, toddler seat, or booster) based on your child’s age and weight.
Rental Services:
Europe: BabyGolightly and Little Concierge Company provide premium car seats.
US: BabyQuip offers reliable delivery of car seats and other essentials.
South Africa: Born Fabulous and Tiny Tots Rentals specialise in car seats and baby gear.
2. High Chairs
While most luxury villas and hotels provide high chairs, it’s worth confirming in advance. For villas that don’t, renting a high chair is a practical solution.
Rental Services:
Tiny Explorers (UK and Europe)
Babierge (US)
Baby’s Away South Africa
What to Check Your Luxury Hotel or Villa Provides
Before packing or renting, ask your accommodation about these essentials:
Crib/Cot: Confirm availability, size, and condition.
Kettle or Milk Warmer: Necessary for preparing formula.
High Chair: Often included in luxury villas and family-friendly hotels.
Buggy: Some hotels provide complimentary strollers for guests.
Car Seat: Ask if they can arrange one for airport transfers or local excursions.
Baby Monitor: Some high-end accommodations provide monitors for added convenience.
Baby Bath: Ideal for young babies who aren’t ready for a full-sized bath.
Steriliser: While rare, some hotels provide sterilisers for bottles.
Tip: Luxury hotels often go above and beyond for families, so don’t hesitate to request additional baby gear.
What to Buy Abroad: Items to Source Locally
For consumables or bulky items, buying locally can save time and luggage space.
1. Nappies and Wipes
Available at supermarkets and pharmacies in most destinations. Bring enough for the first couple of days and then stock up locally.
2. Baby Food
If your baby is eating solids, you’ll likely find familiar brands or suitable alternatives at your destination.
Tip: For picky eaters, pack a few pouches of trusted brands like Ella’s Kitchen and Organix to avoid initial disruptions and have snacks available for those hangry moments.
Final Tips for Stress-Free Travel with Baby Gear
Use Baby Monitor Apps: Apps like Baby Monitor 3G turn your phone into a monitor, saving you luggage space.
Multi-Use Gear: A travel crib can double as a playpen, and a Sleepyhead/DockATot works for both sleep and tummy time.
Research Availability: Check ahead for nappies, milk, and baby food brands to avoid surprises.
Final Thoughts
Travelling with a baby doesn’t need to be overwhelming. By carefully deciding what to pack, rent, or rely on your accommodation to provide, you can streamline the process and focus on creating unforgettable memories with your family. Whether you’re exploring cities, relaxing at a luxury villa, or enjoying a beach holiday, the right baby gear makes all the difference.
With Much Love
The Kensington Diary
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