Traveling with a toddler has to be an absolutely enjoyable experience! It’s exhilarating and exhausting all at the same time; but of course it helps once you are extremely prepared for anything that could happen.

Recently I took an overseas trip with my daughter and here’s a few of the things I packed to help us along the journey (in no particular order):

1) Entertainment

Unless you’re dealing with a newborn, I find that kids need something to keep them occupied. There’s only so much walking, running and talking that you can do to pass the time. My toddler loves books so I packed two or three small ones so that she could switch between at her leisure. Normally, I also have an interactive toy or two that she can use just in case she gets bored with the books and needs something else (besides my cellphone) to occupy her time.

2) Snacks

Food is definitely a must to have on hand. Kids can be picky eaters so it helps to have something quick and easy that you can go to just in case they don’t want anything that’s being offered in the airport or on the airplane. I know personally my daughter likes most food but sometimes she’s just not in the mood for it. So some of my favorite things to keep on hand are the food pouches (so easy to manage because you don’t really need any utensils), snack crackers and a juice pouch. If possible, I also like to pack fruit for her because when all else fails she’s always willing to eat that!

3) Travel Gear

Strollers and car seats while cumbersome in transit have a big payoff. Most airlines allow you to check them free of charge anyway, so it really is no sweat off your back once you get past that point. Even if you have multiple stops, the airline can check these items all the way through for you if you want. I keep a stroller and car seat bag for times like this, so I just fold them and and drop them in the bags. (Here’s a link for two of my faves from Amazon… VolkGo Durable Car Seat Travel Bag and OnGuard Stroller Travel Bag)

Personally though, I like to hold onto the stroller until we get to the gate (then I gate check it) because even though it can be a lot to travel with, it can have a dual purpose. Besides the obvious use, I also end up using it for extra storage if there’s something quick I need to grab (snacks, books or whatever). For me, it’s easier to put your toddler in the stroller instead of having to lift them around everywhere, especially during naps and other times where they don’t want to walk (well that’s if they’re walking yet).

4) Extras, extras, extras!

It’s a fact that in travel sometimes luggage can be delayed or even lost so it’s always smart to have a few back ups of the baby essentials. Sure you can say ‘I’ll just run to the store if I need anything’ but in some situations you may not have time for that. So I pack about two to three change of clothes, extra wipes, and extra diapers (well as much as I can) depending on the length of time we’re traveling. This can come in handy as kids can spill food, drink and have even blowouts resulting in a need to have a wardrobe change!

5) Emergency First Aid Bag

This is my go to in case of emergencies! I like to keep any medicines, bandaids, and any other little ‘Knick-knacks’ that I think I may need. Things happen unexpectedly so it’s always good to be prepared; or in this case maybe even over prepared.

So there you have it… my favorite must haves for traveling with a toddler!

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