Traveling with a baby can be daunting, especially if it’s your first family vacation, but it doesn’t have to be. Babies need a ton of stuff, so you may wonder how it can all fit in your suitcase (and your car). Our list of budget-friendly baby travel essentials will help you pack like a pro while only taking what you actually need and enjoying a stress-free trip!

23 Baby travel essentials

Traveling is a great way to share new experiences with your baby and enjoy quality family time together.

The change in routine and the physical demand of traveling can make it difficult for both babies and their parents.

So, here are the baby travel essentials and travel gear that will make traveling easier for mom and little ones.

Note: Some of the product links below are Amazon affiliate links. This means if you make a purchase, we might get a small commission that helps us grow!

1. Car seat

When traveling with a baby, safety is your number one priority. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recommends using an approved child restraint system (CRS) on an airplane.

Taking your infant car seat or toddler car seat with you may feel like a huge hassle, but it can save you the time and hassle of finding suitable transport options in other countries if you already have your own. It’s important that you check with your airline which car seats are approved, though, as not all of them will be accepted on the flight.

To help protect your CRS from damage during traveling, consider purchasing a travel car seat bag to use on your journey and save money by not buying replacements.

2. Baby travel cot

Baby travel cots are also called a pack-n-play, or a travel crib, and it’s one of the baby travel must haves. They are a great way to provide a safe and familiar place for your baby to sleep on your travels, especially without a regular crib. They are compact, easy to transport, and reasonably budget-friendly.

When considering which travel cot to buy, look out for the following features:

• Ease of use: You want something that won’t take you hours to put up and pack away.
• A mesh window: This is important so you can always see your baby.
• Washable covers: In case of accidents or use over time

3. Portable feeding seat

If you’ve reached the weaning stage with your baby, a travel feeding seat will make feeding and snacks much easier (and safer) whilst away from home. No more trying to feed your baby on your lap whilst trying to eat yourself!

Before purchasing baby travel essentials like this, check the item’s minimum age requirements and weight to ensure it suits your needs. And here’s some advice to a new mom: fabric seat harnesses are a great, portable solution.

4. Baby monitor

A lightweight travel baby monitor is one of the baby essentials for parents on the go. Whilst you’re on holiday, you can get peace of mind that your child is okay without having to go into their room constantly.

Travel monitors must have long-range, good battery life, and be durable enough to withstand traveling.

In addition, certain models are non-WiFi, which is excellent if you don’t have a reliable internet connection where you are staying.

5. Foldable baby bath

Just because you’re staying in holiday accommodation doesn’t mean you have to miss out on bath time fun or the baby’s usual bedtime schedule.

Portable baby baths are designed to be convenient, making them the perfect travel companion for your tot. They also ensure that you can enjoy bath time safely, wherever you are.

Choose one that folds or collapses flat so that it can lay flat in your luggage. And don’t forget the bath toys for the tub, too!

6. Portable white noise machine

If your baby is used to sleeping with background noise, a white noise machine is a great item to pack in your bag and take with you.

Generally, portable sound machines are small and durable, so they are easy to pop in your suitcase or baby’s bag. A noise machine may be a packing category that’s easy to forget, but it’s so important.

Top tip: Some even have built-in night lights, creating the optimum sleep environment for your little one.

7. Pacifiers

If your baby uses a pacifier, it’s essential that you pack enough of these baby travel must haves for your journey.

To make sterilizing on the move easier, purchase a pacifier set along with a handy sterilizer box so you can pop them in the microwave with some water and have them ready for baby in minutes.

8. Baby toiletries

An essential part of your baby packing list is toiletries. Just like us, there are some items that babies rely on every day.

And if you don’t have much space in your suitcase, you can buy smaller traveling bottles to fill up your supply at home to help you have the best family vacations on a budget.

Here are the toiletry travel essentials for your baby that you will need:

• Baby wipes
• Diaper rash cream
• Baby shampoo
• Baby nail clippers
• Suncream
• Items for potty training

Use packing cubes to neatly organize your baby’s items and save you time finding what you need when you arrive.

9. Baby first aid kit

Accidents happen and sometimes can’t be prevented. Especially during travel when it’s hard to baby-proof anything. But you can be prepared.

A baby first aid kit will contain everything you need in case of mild illness or small injury, from plasters and antiseptic to cold compresses and thermometers.

It’s crucial that you buy a pediatric first aid kit so that the items included are suitable for your baby.

10. Feeding equipment

Whether you’re breast or bottle feeding, certain items are essential to take while away from home.

If you’re nursing, don’t forget to pack a nursing cover, pads, and breast pump. If your baby is a bit unsettled in an unfamiliar environment, you will probably find that if you nurse your baby, it will help to soothe and settle them.

In addition, if your baby is taking a bottle, pack enough formula milk so you don’t have to worry about running out while you’re away. Packing a small travel bottle brush is also a good idea to clean your bottles on the go.

A plastic baby spoon and other utensils are a baby travel essential if your little one is starting to have solids.

11. Baby-proofing kit

If your baby is on the move, consider packing a baby-proofing kit to minimize the risk of accidents while on vacation.

A baby-proofing kit contains electrical covers and corner guards for furniture to make the property you’re staying in a safer environment. Some may even include travel stair baby gates, which are essential if you’re staying somewhere with stairs.

12. Travel highchair

Make your weaning journey easier and less stressful when you’re away from home with a reliable travel highchair.

Having your own portable high chair means you won’t have to worry about whether your accommodation or places you eat at will have sufficient facilities.

Look for ones that are lightweight and easy to clean, and you won’t regret your purchase!

13. Backpack diaper bag

When you’re a mom, you need your hands free. That’s why a backpack diaper bag is a great item to have.

They’re easier to carry around if you’re out and about. Backpack diaper bags usually have extra pockets and storage for all your baby’s needs, such as a change of clothes, diaper changes and other toddler essentials.

Plus, they have compartments to help you be organized.

14. Lightweight stroller

A travel stroller is one of the best baby travel essentials because it makes it easier to get around. Choose one that’s lightweight and collapsible, so it doesn’t take up a lot of space.

It will also be easier to load in overhead compartments of trains and airplanes. Leave the bulky pushchair at home!

15. Ergonomic baby carrier

An ergonomic baby carrier is another of the travel essentials for baby because it’s better for your back. It’s a safe and practical way to carry your baby, especially where strollers are hard to maneuver.

A baby carrier also gives you the advantage of being hands-free while your tot enjoys the scenery. Choose a carrier that can be worn for both the back and front so it can be adapted for your baby’s toddler stage. Make sure it’s comfortable and machine washable as well.

16. Sleeping bag/swaddle

Add sleeping bags and swaddle blankets to your baby packing list of essentials for another layer of comfort. Choose lightweight swaddles and sleeping bags to make them easier to fold and more space-saving for your suitcase.

Top tip: the trick to traveling with a newborn or toddler is mirroring their regular routine. So, if that means your child normally falls asleep swaddled up in a blanket, you should also do this when away from home.

17. Sensory travel toys for babies

Baby travel essentials can also be fun! Toys can help distract babies and make them less anxious because it’s familiar and comforting. They’re also a great way to pass the time, making travel easier and more fun.

Some of the very best travel toys for babies include rattles. They are reasonably small, making them the perfect size to slip in your hand luggage, and your baby will love the noise they make.

Teether toys can help calm a fussy baby whilst on the move. High-contrast board books are another great way to keep little minds busy during long journeys.

Baby will love looking at the pictures whilst listening to you tell them a story. You may also include items like stickers, depending on your child’s age.

18. Travel blackout blind

When traveling with tiny humans, sheer curtains in the rooms are the worst. Your baby will likely wake up at the first sign of light, stopping anybody from sleeping well.

That’s why you need your own blackout blinds in your vacation budget, whether staying in a hotel, Airbnb, or with relatives. Amazon sells lots of different portable blackout blinds to suit your budget and style.

19. Waterproof wet bag

Carry a waterproof wet bag with you so you don’t have to worry about getting anything wet. It’s a better alternative than plastic bags. You can store wet clothes in it and keep the rest dry.

20. Water shoes

Water shoes are a must-have travel item if your baby has started walking.

They help to stop your kids from slipping and falling when playing around the pool, especially if they have just started walking and are a bit wobbly on their feet.

Additionally, swim shoes are great if you’re visiting beaches with lots of shells, corals, or rocks.

21. UV beach tent

When considering travel essentials for baby, don’t forget to take in the climate where you are staying. A pop-up beach tent provides an excellent sunshade for your little one.

Most tents also feature 50+ UPF for extra protection, so your tot isn’t sunburnt. That’s why beach tents should be added to your baby packing list.

Here’s a reasonably priced beach tent you can set up easily!

22. Cooler for snacks and formula

When traveling with your little one, you’ll need to keep snacks and liquids on hand, and a travel cooler is an easy way to do it. You can use a cooler for snacks and bottles or a cooler to store breastmilk.

23. Stroller weather cover

Whether you are out and about in the city or spending the day at the beach, if you’re going to be outdoors, a weather cover can be helpful. Bring a stroller cover that protects from rain and wind to make your baby more comfortable as you travel.

Expert tip: Travel at night with your baby when possible

There are several benefits to traveling to your holiday destination during the night when you have a baby in tow.

Firstly, it won’t disrupt your child’s routine as much, so there’s more chance that your bundle of joy will sleep during the night. That means that they will spend less time awake, hungry or bored.

There are usually fewer road users and passengers at night, so you can expect to arrive at your destination sooner than if you were traveling during the day.

If you’re flying to another country, you may also save money by booking night flight tickets, as it tends to be cheaper to fly during unsociable hours.

3 Commonly forgotten baby travel checklist items

Before you leave for a trip, there are certain things you can do to make the actual traveling more streamlined and enjoyable.

Use this checklist for baby travel to make sure everything is in place before the day you travel.

1. Travel insurance

Babies get sick. And if that happens, insurance can prevent you from losing a ton of money.

More importantly, travel insurance will ensure you have the right medical coverage in another country if you need to use it.

2. Check medications

If your baby takes regular medication, ensure you have enough to cover the days you’re traveling. For certain medications, you may need a letter from your doctor that explains to the airline what the medicine is for.

Clearly label all medications with your baby’s name, your contact details, and the correct dispensing instructions.

3. Prepare custody and consent documents

If you’re flying solo with your baby, in some situations, you may need to prove that you’re the child’s parent (especially if you don’t share a surname). Pack birth certificates and a consent document from the other parent so you’re prepared if you need to show them.

Helpful ideas to travel successfully with a baby

While there’s no perfect routine or system to stick to when traveling with a baby, there are a couple of things you can keep in mind that may help traveling be easier:

Keep a routine as much as possible

If your baby is used to a specific routine, try to stick to it as much as possible. While traveling may make things difficult, at the very least, if your child can take regular naps at the same time that they’re used to, it can go a long way in making them feel more comfortable while they aren’t at home.

If you can also try to have meals at similar times to the usual, this can be helpful, as well.

Bring plenty of items to entertain your child

Since you may be traveling for hours at a time, bring plenty of toys and items to entertain your baby. Books, toys, music, movies, puzzles, etc., can all distract your child so they are less focused on their surroundings. This is one of the best car or airport hacks.

What do babies need for traveling?

Our complete baby travel checklist contains the essential items to put in your carry-on when traveling with babies. There’s no need to spend weeks researching and worrying about what to pack. Use this checklist for peace of mind that you’ll have everything you need:

• Baby passport
• First aid kit
• Travel insurance documents
• Travel consent documents (if required)
• Medication (if required)
• Phone charger
• Diapers/swimming diapers
• Baby wipes
• Changing pad or change mat
• Diaper bags
• Diaper rash cream
• Sanitizing wipes
• Baby lotion
• Baby wash
• Muslin
• Nursing cover
• Bibs (Silicone bibs are best for travel)
• Burp cloths
• Pacifier
• Teething toys
• Baby books
• Two changes of baby clothes, onesies, or outfits
• Breast milk or formula
• Baby food (if weaning)

What items are essential for a baby on an airplane?

Items like snacks, toys and bibs are essential for a baby on an airplane. But in addition to these items, be sure to pack the following in your carry-on to help make the flight more comfortable for your baby and less stressful for you:

Earplugs

Airplanes can be noisy and unsettling places for little ones. During take-off, noise levels can rise and cause discomfort for babies and infants.

Baby-safe earplugs or headphones are a great way to help protect your child’s ears. They could even help your baby have a nap!

Lightweight blankets

An airplane cabin can get cold, so blankets are essential for little ones. It’s also a lovely way to get cozy and encourage sleep.

Toys

Let’s face it, flying can get boring on long-haul journeys. Babies don’t understand the concept of time, so using toys as a distraction is a good way to ensure your flight goes smoothly. Don’t forget your baby’s favorite cuddly toy too!

Spill-free sippy cup

If your baby is starting to wean, you may offer your child water. Airplane cabins have low humidity levels, so having plenty of fluids on hand can keep your little one hydrated.

The last thing you want is to deal with cleaning up a spillage in a cramped environment, so pack a reliable cup you know won’t leak.

Functional baby carry-on bag

The best type of carry-on to use when traveling with a baby is one with lots of easily accessible compartments so you can organize your items, such as formula, bottles, clothes, bibs, changing pad, diapers, diaper cream, baby wipes, hand sanitizer etc. It will save you the time and stress of trying to find something that you need quickly!

A carry-on bag you can wear on your back will keep your arms free for the baby. Remember to check that your bag complies with your airline’s size and weight restrictions before traveling.

Airports don’t stock a huge selection of baby travel essentials, so it’s important that you take all the essentials you might need for a baby on an airplane.

Articles related to babies and motherhood

If you enjoyed this article on travel essentials for baby and the baby packing list, check out this related content:

• 5 Main Baby Costs In The First Year To Budget For
• Preparing For A Baby Financially
• How To Create A Baby Budget
• Should I Have Another Baby? Weighing The Costs

A list of baby travel essentials can help you budget for the most important items!

We hope you found this list of baby travel essentials helpful, although we recommend being mindful of your budget and any extra cost.

And remember, when considering how much does having a baby cost, you don’t have to follow every new trend or buy every viral product for your baby.

Consider the most important items you’ll need for your child in the first few years, and focus on purchasing those baby travel must haves first. But as always, we encourage you to do what’s best for your family, especially when it comes to how to spend money wisely.

The post 23 Baby Travel Essentials And Baby Travel Checklist appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

As a single mother, you aren’t just the sole caretaker for your children. You’re also the sole earner for your household. As a result, it can be hard to meet all your financial needs. The challenging economic times can cause housing problems for many families, especially single mothers, so rent assistance for single moms is crucial.

Of course, any changes to your finances can make it hard to find affordable housing, even in a great economy. That being said, we’ve put together a list of options when it comes to rent assistance for single moms.

Programs offering rent assistance for single moms

Below is a list of some programs offering rent assistance for single mothers. Most require proof that your income is below a certain level as well as other circumstances that mean you qualify for these resources. 

Public housing agencies (PHAs)

The public housing agencies, or PHAs, in your area are a good resource to begin searching for rent assistance for single moms. They manage programs like the public housing program and the housing voucher program.

The public housing program

The Department of Housing and Urban Development offers the public housing program. This program helps provide safe rental housing for low-income families. In order to qualify for this program, you must be a low-income family, elderly person, or have a disability.

Income limits apply, and those limits vary by location, so you may qualify for public housing in some areas but not in all areas.

Nearly one million households across the U.S. live in public housing units , managed by about 3,300 different public housing authorities. To apply, start by visiting the HUD’s website to find your local public housing agency (PHA).

Housing choice voucher program (Section 8)

The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program is another HUD program for low-income families. This program doesn’t provide actual housing as the public housing program does. Instead, it gives out vouchers to help low-income families rent units in private housing.

Locally, housing choice vouchers are administered by public housing agencies (PHAs). The PHAs receive federal money from HUD to provide this rent assistance for single moms and other low-income renters.

The family is responsible for finding housing where the owner agrees to the rent under the program. The landlord’s payments come directly from the public housing agency on the renter’s behalf; then, the family pays the difference between the rent charged and the program’s reduced amount. Contact your nearest HUD office to apply. This process may have a long wait time, however.

Subsidized housing

The federal government has a HUD program for subsidized housing. This program gives property owners money to motivate them to offer low-rent apartments. This program allows renters to apply directly with the landlord or property manager. The property manager will then disclose income limits for each unit.

Also, property owners can force other requirements. Use the HUD affordable housing locator to find privately-owned subsidized rentals near you.

USDA rental assistance

The U.S. Department of Agriculture offers various programs to help families find affordable homes in rural areas. A rural area is housing that is located outside of urban areas. These programs help low-income tenants who can’t pay their full rent. They help by providing payments to the property owners on the renter’s behalf.

To be eligible for these programs, you must be a low or very-low-income tenant in a rural area. This is a great option for single moms looking for a home in the country. You can use the USDA website to find affordable rural rentals in your area.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

Another federal program that may provide housing assistance is Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, or TANF. States receive grant money for low-income families with children, and with flexibility around how it’s used, it could go towards helping single moms afford rent, among other household costs.

Find out about TANF in your state to see whether you qualify for monthly cash assistance. 

State agency programs offering rent assistance for single moms

Just like the federal government, each state has a housing agency. Many states have rental assistance programs to help low-income families with housing costs. For more information, contact your state’s housing agency or authority.

Salvation Army

The Salvation Army provides a variety of programs to help individuals in need. Their services include:

• Homeless shelters for those without a place to stay
• Transitional housing for those recently evicted
• Housing for those dealing with a domestic breakup, or any other housing crisis
• Permanent supportive housing for elderly and low-income individuals

For more information, visit the Salvation Army website.

Catholic Charities

Catholic Charities USA offers affordable housing programs to vulnerable residents. They do this by providing emergency shelter or transitional housing, as well as long-term help to those in need. This includes rent assistance for single moms.

CCUSA currently has more than 35,000 permanent housing units around the country. 1,200 new units are being built to help aid more families. To find Catholic Charities services near you, visit the CCUSA website.

CoAbode

CoAbode is an organization designed to help single mothers connect and create a community. Their mission is to help two single mothers share a home and raise their children together. As a result, both mothers benefit from a reduction in housing expenses of about 40%.

Just imagine the additional benefits of having another mom around to share the load and possibly even connect on a personal level. Mothers also carpool to increase social interaction in the community. You can visit CoAbode’s website to learn more about their programs.

Local non-profit organizations offer rent assistance to single moms

Nationwide, non-profit organizations work to help people improve their lives in their communities. These organizations provide housing solutions such as transitional housing or financial assistance to help low-income individuals. Simply search for non-profit organizations in your city, county, or state to learn more. Area churches may also be a good place to begin.

Expert tip: Look into support from local and government organizations

Housing for single moms represents one of your largest expenses, and it can be scary as you worry about your children’s safety. Don’t be afraid to look into all of the government and local organizations offering resources to help you navigate single parenthood.

As a single mom, there’s likely nothing you wouldn’t do to provide a healthy environment for your kids. Use the resources available to you to make it easier to find rent assistance for single moms or other housing assistance. 

Other resources to leverage as a single mom

In addition to programs that specifically provide housing for single moms, you can also utilize programs that help in other areas. Affording nutritious food and safe childcare can be difficult on one income, so check if you qualify for assistance programs like WIC and SNAP. 

Women, Infants, and Children’s Program (WIC)

Women, Infants, and Children’s Program, or WIC, provides food assistance and guidance. While pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum, as well as up until age five for your children, you may qualify for WIC. Get food and health care referrals as well as nutritional counseling and education through this program.  

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

You might know this federally funded program as food stamps, but it’s officially the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). If you’re a single mom on a low income, you may qualify for SNAP benefits, which are funds loaded onto an EBT card for grocery shopping. Income limits and money in the bank are factors in whether you’re eligible. 

Human Services Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)

Not only is housing for single moms often a financial struggle, child care costs can absorb a huge chunk of your monthly income. Applying for the Child Care Assistance Program within your state may help cover much of the cost of daycare and supplemental childcare. 

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

On top of housing for single moms, you’ve got to pay bills for utilities. The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) offers federal funds to help families afford energy bills. Stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter by accessing these resources. 

Learn more about money as a single mom

Being a single mom might not leave you with much free time as the breadwinner for your household, but there are ways to improve your financial literacy. If you don’t feel quite prepared financially, you are capable of learning and becoming more savvy about money. 

Take financial courses

Did you know that Clever Girl Finance offers over a dozen free online financial courses? Learn about organizing your finances, budgeting, building your credit, investing, and more with our resources. And of course, you can also browse hundreds of blog articles to help you optimize your financial life.

Read financial books

You can find a number of other ways of gaining financial knowledge. Your local library may hold free educational events on topics like budgeting and debt, for example. While we’re on that subject, if you haven’t used your public library, it’s a wealth of resources like financial literacy books. 

Find ways to increase your income

While you’re in the trenches of trying to find housing for single moms, as well as feed and care for your kids, it may be easy to ignore your future. But even if your income isn’t where you want it to be, it doesn’t need to stay that way. 

Acquire new skills

Try ways of boosting your income, like taking online courses to train for a new career, or starting a profitable side hustle. These skills can provide you with the tools to successfully earn additional income.

Find side jobs

There are several jobs for moms without a degree and jobs for stay-at-home moms to consider.

If you can’t find a ton of time to pursue extra income, see if you can swap childcare with a mom friend. That might gain you a few hours for a weekend side job if you can find someone you trust with your kids. 

How can I afford to live on my own as a single mom?

Signing up for public housing or rent assistance for single moms through governmental and local organizations can make your ability to afford living on your own feasible as a single mom. In addition to housing assistance, you may be eligible for resources that help single moms afford childcare and nutritious food. 

What is the best place for single moms to live?

The question of where to live as a single mom depends on a lot of different factors. You’ll need to do some research on the resources and programs available to you based on your income, assets, family size, and other qualifications. Inquire with both government and non-profit organizations to find out what options you have, of course keeping your children’s safety top of mind.

Related articles for single moms

If you have found this article on rent assistance for single moms helpful, check out this other related content:

• Where To Find Rent Assistance For Single Moms
• Key Resources And Money Tips For Low-Income Families
• How To Live Without A Job Until You Get A New One: 5 Tips
• 8 Ways To Create A Winning Single Mom Budget
• How To Afford Being A Stay At Home Mom

Leveraging rent assistance for single mothers can help ease financial troubles

Raising children on your own brings its own unique financial challenges, among other single mom struggles. Luckily, there are plenty of organizations offering rent assistance for single moms, which can make it easier to survive financially. 

If you are currently facing housing concerns, start exploring these programs to find an affordable housing solution. Above all, keeping your family safe is most important. P.S. Here are some tips on how to create a single mom budget.

The post Where To Find Rent Assistance for Single Moms appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

The post How To Make Money On Maternity Leave: For Moms Who Need To appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

The post 41 Money Saving Blogs For Moms!  appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

The post Do Women Pay Child Support? What You Need To Know And How To Plan appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

The post How To Survive Financially As A Single Mom  appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

The post How To Afford Being A Stay At Home Mom appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

The post How Much Does Preschool Cost And How To Plan Ahead! appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

The post Planning Out Your Cost Of Diapers Per Month! appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

The post 5 Main Baby Costs In The First Year To Budget For appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

The post Life And Money Tips For Moms With Two Under Two appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

The post 30 Money Savings Ideas For Moms On A Budget appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

The post Natural Fertility Treatments That Won’t Break the Bank appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

The post Freezing Your Eggs: What It Costs And How To Plan appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

The post Should I Have Another Baby? Weighing The Costs appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

The post 8 Ways To Create A Winning Single Mom Budget appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

The post Preparing For A Baby Financially appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

The post Making Time For Your Finances As A Working Mom appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.