Travel Essentials for Kids: 48 Must-Have Items for Stress-Free Trips!

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Packing for family travel can feel overwhelming, especially with kids. You want to be sure you have everything needed to keep them comfortable, entertained, and safe throughout the journey.

Our family has been fortunate to explore many parts of the world together, including Ghana and Germany.

We often travel with the mindset that we’ll be able to purchase what we need upon arrival.

However, in some places, you may not have easy access to the items or stores you’re used to – and when they are available, they can be significantly more expensive.

Traveling with kids can be both exciting and challenging, but with the right essentials, every trip can be smoother and more enjoyable.

To help make packing easier and ensure a hassle-free experience, we’ve gathered expert insights, specific product recommendations, and practical tips that will keep your kids comfortable and entertained.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a cross-country road trip, or an international adventure, this guide covers the travel essentials we, as a family, can’t live without!

Packing Basics for Traveling with Kids

With a little planning and preparation, you can ensure that you have everything you need for a stress-free trip. Here are some packing basics for traveling with kids.

Packing List for Kids

Making a packing list for your kids is essential to ensure that you don't forget anything important.

The list should include all the essentials such as clothes, toiletries, and any medications that your child may need.

For young children, make sure to pack extra diapers, wipes, and formula if needed. For older kids, involve them in the packing process and let them pack their own bags with your guidance.

Consider using packing cubes to organize your kids' clothes and keep them separate from yours. This can make it easier to find what you need and keep everything neat.

Expert Tip:

• According to seasoned flight attendant Amy T., “Packing efficiently and prioritizing essentials can make a huge difference when traveling with kids. Always keep basic items within easy reach, and consider organizing by category to stay prepared.”

Choosing the Right Luggage

When it comes to luggage, choosing the right one is important. For babies and toddlers, a diaper bag with wheels can be a great option as it allows you to carry all their essentials and doubles as a changing station.

For older kids, a 4-wheel carry-on bag can be a good choice as it gives them the independence to carry their own luggage.

When selecting kids' luggage, look for lightweight and durable options that are easy to maneuver.

Make sure the luggage is the right size for your child and has enough compartments to keep everything organized.

Detailed Product Recommendations to Make Family Travel Easier

Including well-researched product suggestions can simplify your packing process and ensure a smoother experience when traveling with kids. Here are some of our favorite kid-friendly travel essentials:

• Portable Snack Containers: Bento Boxes (like Bento’s Original Kids Snack Box) are perfect for keeping food organized and mess-free, making snacks easy to grab on the go.
• Kid-Sized Headphones: BuddyPhones Kids Headphones offer safe volume levels for young ears, helping to reduce noise exposure while keeping kids entertained during travel.
• Durable Water Bottles: Contigo Autospout Water Bottle is spill-proof and easy for little ones to use independently, ensuring they stay hydrated without mess.

By choosing quality, kid-friendly travel products, you’re setting yourself up for a more organized and enjoyable trip.

Each of these essentials helps keep kids comfortable, entertained, and well-fed, no matter where the journey takes you.

In-Flight Entertainment

Long-haul flights can be a tiring prospect when traveling with kids. However, with the right in-flight entertainment, you can keep your little ones occupied and happy during the journey. 

• What’s your child’s favorite activity? Consider packing items that cater to their interests, like coloring books for young artists or interactive e-books for avid readers.
• Does your child need screen-free options? Pack a variety of portable games like Magnetic Travel Games or a Tangle Fidget Toy for hands-on entertainment without screens.

Keeping kids entertained on long flights can be challenging, but with the right activities, you can make the journey enjoyable for them and stress-free for you.

Electronics and Gadgets

Electronic devices are a great needed travel essential and a great way to keep kids entertained on long flights or unexpected travel delays.

Tablets, smartphones, and portable gaming systems can provide hours of entertainment. Make sure to download some games, movies, and TV shows beforehand to keep your kids entertained during the flight.

However, it's important to be mindful of screen time. Make sure to have them take breaks and encourage your kids to do other activities such as reading or coloring during a long flight.

Please note: When traveling with battery packs please be mindful. The TSA does not allow batteries, lithium-based portable chargers, or power banks in checked luggage.

After forgetting this fact more than once, we now make sure to only carry these items in our carry-on luggage.

Bluetooth smart trackers

Bluetooth smart trackers are also a family favorite. They track various personal items such as travel suitcases, our kids' book bags, car keys, and our car.

The trackers use Bluetooth technology to connect to your preferred device and help you locate your lost or misplaced items and anything else you need to keep track of regularly. Apple AirTag, Samsung SmartTag, and Tile Pro are all great options.

Books and Magazines

Activity books, Journals, and small coloring books are a great way to keep kids entertained without the use of electronic devices.

Bring a variety of books and magazines to keep your kids entertained throughout the flight. Choose books that are appropriate for your child's age and reading level.

We always try to surprise the kids with new books or magazines to keep things interesting and exciting.

Snacks and Hydration

When traveling with kids, it's important to keep them well-fed and hydrated to avoid any meltdowns. 

Healthy Snack Options

Who doesn’t love to splurge on junk food during travels? But we also try not to rely solely on junk food and pack healthy snacks that keep the kids energized and satisfied. Some great options include:

• Fresh Fruit: Apples, bananas, grapes, and berries are all easy to pack and provide a healthy dose of vitamins and fiber.
• Trail Mix: Make your own or buy pre-packaged trail mix with nuts, dried fruit, and seeds.
• Veggie Sticks: Carrot sticks, celery, and cucumber slices are great options, especially when paired with hummus or other healthy dips.
• Granola Bars or Gummy Bears: Look for bars that are low in sugar and high in protein and fiber.
• Dried Fruit Packs: These offer sweetness without the mess of fresh fruit.
• Whole Grain Crackers and Cheese Sticks: Simple, healthy options that can keep hunger at bay without being overly sugary.
• Veggie Straws or Puffs: Kid-friendly options that are low in crumbs and easy to eat on the go.

To make snacking on the go easier, consider investing in a snack spinner.

This handy container allows you to pack multiple snacks in one and easily rotate between them, keeping snacks organized and preventing them from getting soggy or crushed in your bag.

Expert Tip:
Parenting expert Dr. Akua A. suggests, “Snacks can make or break a trip! Choose options that are healthy, non-perishable, and easy for kids to handle on their own.”

Staying Hydrated

Dehydration can lead to crankiness and fatigue, so it's important to make sure your kids are drinking enough water. Here are some tips for staying hydrated on the go:

• Pack refillable water bottles: Bring a water bottle for each member of your family and refill them as needed throughout the day.
  If your child is below 3 years of age, you can travel with liquids. One thing that works well for us is that we travel with empty bottles and fill them up once we get through security.
• Use wet bags: If you're traveling somewhere hot, consider packing a wet bag to keep your water bottles cool and prevent condensation from getting all over your other belongings.
• Offer hydrating snacks and electrolyte mixes: Watermelon, cucumbers, and oranges are all high in water content and can help keep your kids hydrated.
• Set reminders: If your kids are prone to forgetting to drink water, set reminders on your phone or watch to remind them to take a sip.

Comfort and Safety

Travel Comfort Accessories

When traveling with kids, comfort is key to keeping them happy and relaxed.

A travel pillow and blanket can make a huge difference in helping little ones get some much-needed rest in a small space.

Look for options that are lightweight and easy to pack, like the Trtl Travel Pillow for neck support or the Little Sleepy Head Travel Blanket – both compact and ideal for kids.

Another great accessory is a white noise machine, like the Yogasleep Hushh Portable Sound Machine.

This can help drown out unfamiliar noises in a hotel room or rental property, creating a more peaceful environment for your child to sleep in.

Flight Attendant Tip:
“Creating a familiar sleep environment with comfort items like a favorite blanket or travel pillow can ease restlessness on long journeys,” shares flight attendant Sarah M. “Consistent sleep cues, even in new places, help kids settle in more easily.”

Safety Essentials

Safety should always be a top priority when traveling with kids. A portable high chair, like the Inglesina Fast Table Chair, is a great investment if you plan on eating out often. It attaches to most tables and provides a secure spot for your child to sit and eat, making it easier to dine wherever you go.

A first aid kit is also essential for handling any unexpected bumps or bruises. Make sure to pack one with all the necessary items, such as band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. We use the Swiss Safe 2-in-1 First Aid Kit, which is compact yet packed with essentials, making it easy to keep in a carry-on or backpack.

If you plan on renting a car, a travel car seat is a must-have. The Cosco Scenera NEXT Convertible Car Seat offers both safety and comfort. For infants, the Doona Infant Car Seat doubles as a stroller, which has been a huge help in airports and travel destinations. Investing in a quality travel stroller can last for years—ours has served us well with all three of our little ones.

Clothing and Accessories

The goal is always to optimize your space and stay organized when traveling. Packing cubes and toiletry pouches have been a family favorite through the years.

The kids all have their respective color packing cubes so they can quickly and independently get to their clothes.

Weather-Appropriate Clothing

No matter where you're going, it's important to pack weather-appropriate clothing for your kids. If you are going on a long trip, consider packing different options for different types of weather.

Extra layers are always a great way to prepare for unexpected temperature changes.

Growing up, traveling was always a big deal in our house. My parents always made sure we dressed up nicely, especially on long-haul flights.

Oftentimes, being dressed up in cute dresses and tights was everything but comfortable.

That tradition has not been continued in our home. To this day, my mother gives me a disapproving look every time she sees me wearing loungewear when traveling.

We have learned to do comfort over style when traveling, especially with kids.

Spare clothes are also an essential travel must-have, especially if you're traveling with younger kids.

Accidents happen, and having a spare set of clothes can save you from a lot of stress and hassle. It is also important to have a change of clothes for us parents.

Travel Accessories and Documentation

When it comes to travel accessories we already mentioned one of our favorite toddler travel essentials, which is a travel stroller or baby carrier.

Not only do they make it easier to get around, but they also provide a safe and comfortable place for your little one to rest.

Another essential accessory is a bag for your many important documents. Keep all your passports, tickets, and other important documents in one place to avoid losing them or fumbling through your bags at the airport.

Please note: When traveling within the United States, there is no need to provide a passport or any identification for children under 18 years.

However, we travel with a copy of photo identification and respective birth certificates on hand, just in case.

When traveling internationally, regardless of your child’s age, you will need the following:

• Valid Passport
• Current Visa
• Immunization information

Travel Health and First Aid

Medications and Vaccinations

When traveling with kids, it's important to make sure they are up-to-date on their vaccinations, especially when traveling internationally. 

Check with your pediatrician to see if there are any recommended or required vaccines for your destination.

Additionally, it's a good idea to pack any necessary medications your child may need, such as allergy medicine or asthma inhalers. Keep all medications in their original packaging and bring copies of prescriptions, just in case.

Antibiotics are now one of our essentials, after having a little scare when visiting Germany and being told that they would not prescribe Antibiotics to children.

Luckily it was a day before flying back home to the US, but it was still frustrating. It is important to note that every country is different when it comes to certain medicines and their availability.

First Aid Kit

Accidents can happen, especially when traveling with kids. Be prepared by packing a first aid kit that includes bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, a thermometer, and over-the-counter pain relievers.

It's also a good idea to include any prescription medications your child may need in case of an emergency. Make sure to check the expiration dates of all items in your first aid kit before you leave.

When using public restrooms, be sure to bring your own hand sanitizer or disinfectant wipes to clean surfaces before use, also consider toilet seat covers.

Wipes are not considered a liquid item, so we travel with loads of them everywhere we go.

Insect repellent can also help prevent bug bites and potential illnesses. Baby wipes can come in handy for cleaning up messes and keeping hands clean.

In most countries, face masks are only recommended. To be safe, we as a family now have face masks with us wherever we travel.

The best face masks to mitigate infection risks are N95, KN95 or KF94. We also purchase lanyards for the kids to attach their face masks. This prevents them from easily losing their masks.

Sleep Essentials

Sleeping Aids

Long trips and overnight flights can be exhausting for kids, and it's important to ensure they get enough rest.

Portable sound machines are a great way to create white noise that can help your child sleep better. They are small and easy to pack, and they can be used anywhere.

Another great option is a pitch-black portable blackout curtain. These curtains are perfect for blocking out any light that might be coming in through the windows, which can be especially helpful if you're traveling to a different time zone.

They are also easy to install and can be used in any room.

In addition to these sleeping aids, you might also want to consider bringing along some familiar items from home, such as a favorite stuffed animal or blanket.

These can provide comfort and help your child feel more at ease in an unfamiliar environment.

Entertainment, Exploration, and Activities when Traveling with Kids

Travel Games and Toys

One of the best ways to keep little ears occupied during travel is with travel games and toys. Small toys like puzzles, coloring books, and sticker books are great for keeping kids busy during flights.

You can also pack some classic travel games like travel-sized board games, card games, and magnetic games.

A game changer for long-haul flights is a tablet loaded with kid-friendly games and movies. Just make sure to bring headphones so your child will not disturb other passengers.

Portable Entertainment: Travel-Friendly and Mess-Free Activities

When traveling with kids, portable, mess-free activities are essential for keeping things calm and stress-free. Here are a few recommendations:

• Color Wonder Mess-Free Coloring Kits: These markers only work on special paper, keeping both the plane and your kids' clothes free from marks.
• Sticker Books and Small Puzzles: Compact, easy-to-use, and highly engaging for young kids.
• Travel-Sized Magnetic Board Games: These games are easy to carry and perfect for family-friendly fun on flights.

These travel-friendly activities keep kids entertained while minimizing mess, making them ideal choices for flights or long road trips.

Educational Tools

Travel can be a great opportunity for kids to learn and explore. Bring along some educational tools like flashcards, books, and maps to keep them engaged and learning.

You can also download educational apps on your tablet or phone for a fun and interactive learning experience.

One of the best travel toys for kids is a portable microscope. It allows kids to explore the world around them and learn about science while on the go.

If you need another great way to keep your kids engaged during travel, consider turning it into a learning adventure.

This is one of our favorite parts of traveling with kids. Introduce them to a ‘country study' before your trip.

Choose the country or state you will be visiting and delve into its culture, history, and traditions together as a family.

Explore its famous landmarks, cuisine, and customs. To make the experience even more immersive, create a guide of commonly used phrases in the language of the country you are visiting.

Encourage your kids to practice these phrases, encouraging a sense of connection with the local culture.

This not only adds an educational aspect to your journey but also helps kids feel more involved and excited about the destination they will soon explore and the memories they will capture.

Items to consider when staying in a hotel

When traveling, we do not always have a chance to stay with family and friends. Trying to figure out where to stay can be tricky.

You want to be near all the fun attractions but also want to make sure you are in a family-friendly and safe environment.

Once you find a great location that works for your family, you want to make sure your accommodation has enough space, a fridge, and a microwave.

We usually try to find a good deal on a standard suite room. Standard suite rooms tend to be larger than standard hotel rooms and are usually divided into separate areas.

Here are some of our travel essentials when staying in a hotel:

1. Flip flops: To avoid infections, especially fungi, we make sure we travel with flip flops. We walk on the hotel carpet with them and use flip-flops when showering in the hotel shower. Children could care less about germ safety. All they want to do is enjoy their holiday and run around on the hotel carpet. We as parents, have to take precautions for them. The kids see hotels as their home away from home so we try to make that as safe as possible.
2. Mattress cover/sheet: With all the excitement of traveling, kids sometimes drink past their cut-off time and consequently wet the bed. In the past, we improvised with plastic bags. However, we ultimately decided to buy a mattress cover.
3. Portable crib/play yard: If possible call the Hotel before your stay and ask if you can reserve a portable crib. We have had our little ones sleep with us on the bed when the portable crib was not available. However, if you are worried about your child falling off the bed and you have a chance to get a crib, do that.

FREE Packing List

As a family we work well with lists to avoid over-packing – so we created a categorized packing list.

First, we determine our top essential items needed for the trip and pack those items before anything else. We then prioritize the remaining items as detailed below.

“Traveling with kids is not about the destination; it's about the journey and the memories you create along the way.”

We hope you have found our items mentioned and insights informative and valuable. The blessing and joy of traveling with our children is in the shared experiences, the laughter, and the discoveries you make together.

With the right essentials in your travel arsenal, you can focus on what truly matters – creating beautiful moments and strengthening the bonds that make your family unique.

So, pack wisely, stay safe, and cherish every adventure. So long, farewell, Auf Wiedersehen, Goodbye, fellow explorers, and may your family travels be filled with wonder and joy!

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best way to plan activities that both kids and adults can enjoy on a family trip?

• Mix in activities that cater to both age groups, like visits to interactive museums or nature hikes.
• Plan downtime for relaxation, so everyone can recharge and avoid burnout.
• Involve your kids in the planning process by letting them choose some activities they're interested in.

How do I handle jet lag with kids when traveling across time zones?

• Gradually adjust your child's sleep schedule before the trip if possible.
• Encourage outdoor activities and exposure to natural light at your destination to help reset their internal clock.
• Be patient and allow for extra rest during the initial adjustment period.

What are specific product recommendations for keeping kids entertained on a flight?

Portable games like Travel Bingo, Color Wonder Markers, and kid-safe headphones (e.g., BuddyPhones) are great for on-the-go entertainment.

How can snacks contribute to a more manageable travel experience?

Healthy snacks like dried fruit and whole-grain crackers are easy to pack and help keep hunger in check without causing a mess. This prevents mood swings from hunger and keeps kids satisfied.

What practical tips do flight attendants offer for a smoother journey with kids?

Experienced flight attendants suggest packing comfort items and keeping snacks and entertainment in easily accessible places. This way, you can quickly address any needs during travel.

How can parents optimize kids' sleep during flights?

Stick to regular sleep routines as much as possible, and bring familiar comfort items. Use a neck pillow or travel blanket to make sleep easier, especially during long-haul flights.

How to manage kids' luggage effectively for a seamless travel experience?

Choose kid-friendly luggage options that your child can handle independently. Packing cubes can also help separate essentials and make it easy for kids to find what they need.

Do minors need identification to travel?

Yes, minors need identification to travel. Children under the age of 18 are required to have a valid ID when traveling domestically or internationally. Acceptable forms of identification include a passport, birth certificate, or government-issued ID. It is important to check the requirements of your destination as some countries may have specific ID requirements for minors.

What documentation is required to fly with a child that is not mine?

If you are traveling with a child that is not yours, you will need to have a notarized letter from the child's parents or legal guardians permitting you to travel with the child. This letter should include the child's name, the names of the accompanying adults, and the dates of travel. It is also recommended to have a copy of the child's birth certificate and the parent's contact information in case of an emergency.

Does a child travel consent form need to be signed by both parents?

Yes, if both parents have legal custody of the child, then both parents must sign the travel consent form. If only one parent has legal custody, then only that parent needs to sign the form. It is important to note that if there is a court order in place regarding custody or travel restrictions, then the court order must be followed.

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