Getting ready for a holiday is an exciting time, especially if you are jetting off to be in the sun. However, when you have a baby or a toddler with you, preparing for a holiday can be a daunting task. Knowing what to pack can be difficult, more so if you are going to a foreign country where the weather can be dramatically different from home.
To make life a little easier when it comes to holiday prep, we have put together an essential list of items you will need for a holiday in the sun with a baby or toddler. So with the help of our handy holiday list, you will be able to enjoy the experience of a getaway with your little one.
It might be obvious, however you need to have a passport for your child, regardless of their age. Organising your baby's passport is fairly easy and you can complete the process online. Just make sure you leave plenty of time to do it before you take off.
2. Nappies
Nappies are essential when going on holiday, however, you don't need to pack nappies for your entire trip. Pack enough nappies to last you the journey and the first day or two and then buy nappies when you are there. Some airlines give helpful packs to families during the flight including nappies that are sold in your destination countries, so keep the packaging to look for the same ones when you land.
3. Baby carrier or pushchair
Depending on where you are going and for how long you may want to bring either a baby carrier or pushchair. Baby carriers are ideal for young babies, and especially come in handy to soothe your baby during the flight. Many small and lightweight pushchairs are also available that fold up small enough to be taken on the plane as hand luggage making the journey and your holiday easier. You can rent these from sites like Baboodle or The Bubba Hub.
4. Hot weather clothing essentials
Ensure that your baby is protected with hot weather clothing essentials. If you are looking for an affordable and Eco-friendly option for holiday clothes, renting your baby’s clothes is a great idea. Here at Borro, we have all the hot-weather clothing essentials such as:
- baby sun hats
- UPF sunsuits
- plenty of T-shirts
- cute summer dresses.
To get the most out of renting you can rent clothing bundles, which allow you to pick clothes specific for your child’s age, with choices including soft neutrals or colourful prints.
Remember to pack your baby’s food if they are weaning and any formula and bottles you may need. The usual hand luggage restrictions don’t apply to baby food, milk or formula so make sure you pack as much as you will need. If you are breastfeeding you may need your breast pump or buy a smaller hand pump for your holiday (again these are available to rent).
For toddlers make sure to pack a selection of their favourite snacks for the journey and for when you arrive at your destination. If your toddler has favourite foods such as porridge or cereal pack these in your luggage to make meals easier during your trip.
6. Car seat
If you plan to take a taxi or rent a car when you arrive, take your own car seat, which can be checked as luggage, usually for free. Laws about children's car seats vary in other countries and although you can rent car seats you can not always guarantee a car seat suitable for your baby’s age will be available.
7. Travel black-out blinds
Help your baby adjust to different time zones and ensure they get a good night's sleep by packing a travel blackout blind. The sun often sets later in hotter countries so a blackout curtain will be essential for bedtime, and many fold up small enough to go in your suitcase.
8. Meal essentials
Make meal times on holiday fuss-free by packing spill-free sippy cups, silicone bibs, and your children's cutlery. A small silicone food bowl will also be handy when you are eating out and it can easily fold into your luggage.
9. First aid kit, suncreams, and lotions.
Don't forget these essential items, especially with an adventurous little one:
- First aid kit including plasters, antiseptic and Calpol.
- Baby suncream
- Insect repellent
- Baby shampoo, conditioner, and soap
- Baby moisturiser
10. Travel nightlight
Make nighttime changes easier while you are away with a travel night light. This can also be a soothing bedtime aid for toddlers adjusting to a new surrounding, especially at night.
Additional extras
Don’t forget these hot holiday essentials for your little one:
- Sunglasses
- Beach toys
- Beach sunshade or tent
- Toys and books for the plane
- Pool floats/armbands
