The Ultimate Travel Checklist for Toddlers

Adding on to my last article, “Driving Across Country with a Toddler”, this is a thorough, easy to follow checklist to help ensure that you have everything you need for your child; to make the trip as easy and smooth as possible. Though some little ones may need more, less, or different things than others; this list is a great place to start.

• Diapers – This will depend on the child’s age and if they’re potty trained, of course; but the last thing you want is to find yourself in the middle of nowhere; with no more clean diapers.

• Wet Wipes – Even if your child is out of diapers, wet wipes are great for a number of things; especially when it comes to cleaning hands and faces after snacks.

• A Variety of Snacks – We all know how picky kids can be, especially toddlers. One day they love a snack, the next day they hate it. When it comes to food, make sure you have a variety; to keep up with all of their food preference swings.

• Changes of Clothing – Whether it’s accidents, unpleasant weather, or food/drink spills, it’s always a good idea to have extra, clean clothes on hand.

• A Variety of Toys – Toddlers tend to be much more well behaved, and calm during travel if they have ways to keep themselves entertained. Just like the snacks, make sure to have a variety available; in order to hold their interest.

• Blanket(s) – Blankets can come in handy for both keeping a child warm in cool/cold temperatures, as well as providing physical and emotional comfort.

• A Variety of Music or Soundtracks – Just like toys, having different things that they can listen to can also help to keep a toddler calm, and entertained while in a vehicle for a long period of time.

• Books – Depending on your child’s age, reading and activity/colouring books can be a great way to pass the time and do something fun while travelling.

• Electronics – Not all parents decide to allow their kids to have electronics, and this will also depend on their age. However, free to download games or movies on phones or tablets is another great way to help keep a toddler or young child entertained while on the move.

• Plastic/Garbage Bags – During a long trip, it’s good to keep bags on hand in the vehicle; for dirty diapers and garbage from snacks, food and such.

• A First Aid Kit – It’s a good idea to always keep basic first aid supplies in your vehicle, especially if you’re taking a long trip. We all know that kids tend to be accident prone, and may need some tending to if they take a fall or trip during a stretch break.

• Toiletries – Don’t forget to pack their hairbrush, toothbrush, toothpaste, creams, and any medications they may be on.

• Sippy Cups – If your child isn’t yet at the stage where they can drink from plastic bottles or cups without dumping it on themselves, sippy cups can be lifesavers to keep them dry, clean and hydrated while in their seats.

• Outdoor Activity Apparrel – Depending on where you’re going or what stops you plan on making, your child may need a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, bug spray, sunglasses, and so on.

• A Supply of Drinks – To avoid having to stop at gas stations or shops several times, just like with snacks, it can be a big help to have a supply prepared ahead of time; such as bottled water or juice boxes.

• A Stroller – Depending on the size/age of your child, a stroller can really come in handy for when you take breaks or arrive at your destination; instead of having to carry your child as well as all of their things.

• A Bowl or Bucket – If your little one happens to get carsick, you’re going to want something on hand that they can get sick into; rather than it ending up all over your vehicle. Kids Gravol can be a lifesaver for motion sickness, and is a must have for travelling with children who experience it.

• Ear Plugs and/or Headphones – If you have a particularly fussy child and they just can’t be soothed at times, it may not be a bad idea to bring some of these with you - just in case.

If you’ve got everything on this list, then the odds are that you’re all set and ready for a trip with your toddler!