What to Bring in Your Diaper Bag When Flying with Little Ones

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What to Bring in Your Diaper Bag When Flying with Little Ones

Let’s be honest, your diaper bag is about to become your superhero sidekick. Here’s what we personally recommend having on hand for an easier flight with your baby or toddler:

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Diaper Bag Essentials:

• Diapers or Pull ups & Wipes: Pack more than you think you’ll need. Flight delays happen! We love Huggies lol 

• Changing Pad or Liner : Planes aren't known for their comfort or cleanliness, having a clean space for changes is a must. (I also bring Lysol wipes to clean the changing table before putting down my changing pad/liner). 

• Plastic Bags or Wet Bags: For dirty clothes, diapers, cloth diapers, or surprise messes. (I like buying doggy poop bags or Munchkin Arm & Hammer bags).

• Extra Outfit(s) for Baby: Accidents and spills are basically guaranteed. I like one piece PJs for babies with a 2-way zip design or 2 piece PJs/nightgown for toddlers. 

• Extra Shirt for You: Because if baby has a blowout or spits up… guess who’s wearing it?

Feeding Supplies:

• Bottles, Formula, Breastmilk, or Snacks: TSA allows you to bring these in reasonable quantities even over 3 oz. (Just make sure to allow extra time going through security).

• Pacifiers or Teethers (if your kiddo uses it): Great for takeoff and landing to help relieve ear pressure. (My girls didn't need them as I would nurse them during takeoff or landing).

• Pump: If you’re nursing or pumping exclusively, bring your pump bag as it is complimentary. Make sure to bag your flanges and pump parts in a clear bag so TSA doesn't touch them with their dirty gloves as they don't regularly change them between travelers. 

• Snacks for Older Babies/Toddlers: Think mess-free and age-appropriate (puffs, fruit pouches, crackers, etc.). If I bring a carry on and checked bags, I divide the snacks between all the bags. 

Entertainment:

• Favorite Toy or Two: Familiar comfort items are gold.

• New Toy or Surprise: Something they haven’t seen before to capture their interest longer. 

• Tablet with Headphones: Download shows, music, or games ahead of time. Don’t rely on in-flight Wi-Fi.

• Books, Stickers, or Coloring Kit: Great for toddlers and a lifesaver during long flights.

Sleep Helpers:

• Blanket or Lovey: If your child has a sleep cue item, bring it!

• Neck Pillow (for you): So you can catch a rest if they fall asleep in your arms.

Health & Comfort:

• Baby Meds & Essentials: Think travel-size pain relievers, teething gel, gas drops, etc. If possible, bring chewables if you have a toddler.

• Tissues & Hand Sanitizer: For everything, everywhere, all at once.

• Thermometer (small digital one): Optional, but nice for peace of mind if your child seems off mid-flight.

Final Tips:

• Pack these items in clear, easy-to-grab pouches within your carry-on or diaper bag. Trust me when your baby starts crying or a toddler meltdown brews, the last thing you want is to dig through a suitcase jungle.
• Less is best. Bring only what you truly need. It can be overwhelming if you bring stuff you may need just in case. For those "just in case" or extra items, pack them in the carry-on or checked bag. 
• With that said, leave room to pack your baby carrier inside the diaper bag or clip the baby carrier to the diaper bag.
• We like diaper backpacks so you can have your arms free and not worry about adjusting your bag as you walk. We have gone through a few diaper backpacks and liked them all! 

Need a custom packing list depending on your destination or type of trip (cruise, land, international)? Let us know! We would love to help make travel smoother for your family!

Book your complimentary meeting! 

With love and gratitude, 

Cruise Planners - Ana & Travis 

702-482-7774 

AMartinez@CruisePlanners.com