The Ultimate A to Z Checklist for Travelling with a Toddler (12-24 Months)
Traveling with a toddler requires planning, especially focusing on independent play, self-feeding, and maintaining routines away from home. Use this checklist, broken down by category, to ensure you don’t leave anything vital behind!
🍽️ Feeding & Dining Gear
Item
Notes & Tips
Water Cup / Sippy Cup
Needed now that they are drinking water regularly.
Water Bottle
A reliable, leak-proof bottle for use outside the room.
Snack Pots / Lunch Box
Great for taking snacks from the hotel breakfast buffet or for organized travel snacks.
Snacks
Non-perishable favourites (pouches, crackers, cereal) for meltdowns and travel days.
Cutlery and Plates
Small, travel-friendly set for self-feeding.
Bibs (5-7)
Including plastic or wipeable bibs for messy meals.
Pump, Bottles, Formula, Rapid Cool, Thermos Flask
(Only pack if still in use)
Bottle Brush & Cleaning Tablets
Essential for cleaning bottles/cups on the go.
😴 Sleeping & Comfort
Item
Notes & Tips
Blackout Blind
Essential for non-blackout hotel/lodge rooms (Bandos or Center Parcs!).
Monitor
A reliable travel monitor for checking on sleeping toddlers in the evenings.
Travel Cot
Only if the hotel/lodge doesn’t provide one.
Sleeping Bag
Bring a low TOG (thin) one for warm climates and a thicker option for planes/cool evenings.
Comforter
Or favourite cuddly toy for security.
Dummy
If used, pack several spares!
Muslins (5-10)
Multi-purpose—used for shade, burp cloths, and light blankets.
Teething Toys
Pack a variety of textures for comfort.
☀️ Sun Protection & Swimwear
Item
Notes & Tips
Sun Lotion (SPF 50+)
Specifically formulated for infants.
Insect Repellent
Essential for evenings in tropical climates.
Swim Float
Or ring, for safe fun in the pool.
Swim Nappies
Both disposable and reusable swim nappy options.
Happy Nappy
Mandatory at many pools to prevent any “poop leakage.”
Swimwear (UV Protection)
Full-coverage sun suits are best.
Hats (Wide Brim)
Pack several, as they often get wet or lost.
Sunglasses
Protect those little eyes!
Mosquito Net for Pram
Necessary for evening walks or outdoor naps in tropical climates.
Swim Towel
Check if the hotel provides large pool towels—you may not need one!
Bucket & Spade
Essential new addition for beach play!
✈️ Travel Day, Clothing & Play
Item
Notes & Tips
Cool Clothes
Light, breathable cotton. Pack more changes due to messier eating/play.
Shoes
Multiple pairs: sandals, trainers, and pool shoes.
Books
A few favourites for bedtime/quiet time.
Sticker Books
Excellent, mess-free entertainment for planes/restaurants.
Headphones (Noise Cancelling)
Great for the plane and tablet time.
Change of Clothes (for you and the baby)
Absolute necessity for the flight in case of spills or accidents!
Toys
Don’t overpack—just a few simple toys, as the holiday environment is often entertainment enough.
🩹 Health, Hygiene & Nappies
Item
Notes & Tips
Nappies & Wipes
Always pack more than you think you need for travel days.
First Aid Kit
Must include infant paracetamol, thermometer, saline, and plasters.
Nappy Cream
Essential for protecting skin against heat and humidity.
A to Z Family Travels 