Quick and Easy Tips for Planning Stress-Free Travel with Your Baby

Planning a trip with your baby can feel stressful and overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Taking a little time to plan ahead can greatly reduce your anxiety and help you feel more prepared.

Below, I’ve shared some of my favorite quick tips that are simple to implement and will help you eliminate the overwhelm before your next family adventure.

Use Lists:
You probably already know how helpful packing lists can be—if not, now’s the time to start! I’ve created some easy-to-use lists you can print out for each trip.

But here’s how to take it a step further: Instead of breaking your list into individual items or clothing categories, think bigger. Organize your packing into categories like sleeping, feeding, diapers, and transportation. This will help you focus on what’s needed for each activity, ensuring you don’t forget any essentials.

Here are some examples of things you will probably want to include in each category: 

Sleeping: 

• Pajamas
• Overnight diapers
• Sound machine
• Bedtime books

Feeding: 

• Bottles and related equipment
• Pumping supplies
• Bottle cleaning items
• Toddler/kids cups, plates, utensils (even if you are staying at an AirBnB or VRBO, they may not have "kid-sized" items, so it may be helpful to bring your own. 

Diapers: 

• Diapers
• Wipes
• Changing pad/mat
• Ointments and creams 

Then, after you have the basics covered don't forget about things to keep your baby entertained. Small toys and books that they haven't seen in awhile are great because they feel "new" and different. 

I invented the Lay and Play Adventure Mat to give you a place to PUT your baby so that your baby has a good, safe place to roll around play and so you can have a few hands-free moments to unpack, make dinner, and relax. 

Don't forget about multi-functional gear. This not only saves space in your luggage but helps to streamline your packing. Some ideas: 

• Toys that can be used to play in the hotel and also the bath and sand.
• A baby play mat that can also be used as a changing mat. 
• Swaddle blanket that can also be used as a nursing cover, sunshade or a burp cloth.
  
  

😀 This is my favorite tip. It won't necessarily help on this trip but will be SO helpful for future trip planning.

👉 Take notes while you are traveling and jot down a few key things: 

• Things you are GLAD you brought (especially if you thought you might not bring them)
• Things you packed that you DIDN'T need
• Things you forgot or WISH you would have packed

This is super helpful for future trips and family adventures. Make it easy on yourself and keep a running note in your phone that you can always add to or refer back when planning the next trip. 


The Lay and Play Adventure Mat was designed by an overwhelmed mom to create a place that would keep baby entertained while giving parents some much needed hands free time. 

✔️ Keep your baby on a clean surface and off the actual airport floor
✔️ Use as a changing mat if you need to do a quick diaper change
✔️ Fun and entertaining for your baby 
✔️Gives mom and dad a few hands free moments
✔️ Easy to wash in the washing machine when you get home