How to Pack a Toddler's Suitcase

Taking a trip with a toddler can be lots of fun, if you remember to bring along all the necessary supplies. Here are some packing tips for efficient toddler travel.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Children's Luggage
• Training Pants
• Children's Books
• Airtight Resealable Bags
• Baby Shampoo
• First Aid Kits
• Toddler Toothbrushes
• Baby Shampoo
• Travel Toys

1. Bring pull-ups or training pants in case of unexpected "accidents," if your child is potty training or has recently been potty trained. If he or she is still in diapers, bring more than you think you will need and lots of wipes.

2. Bring some snacks along in the carry-on bag, if you are flying, including something to help relieve the pressure of takeoffs and landings.

3. Pack coordinated outfits, folded or rolled, inside large zip-lock bags ' this means you can offer your child a quick, easy choice of outfits each day. Use the empty bags for dirty or wet clothes, used diapers or garbage.

4. Pack a small first aid kit, including pain reliever/fever reducer, allergy medication (if necessary), Band-Aids and any other medications your child might need.

5. Don't forget the toothbrush, children's shampoo and other toddler toiletries! Pack them in a waterproof bag, of course.

6. Bring some picture books and quiet toys (let your child help choose them) to keep his or her attention during the trip.

7. Pack a few little surprises for the trip so that you can bring them out when your toddler starts to get tired or restless or so that you can offer them as incentives for good behavior.

8. Make sure you have enough clothes, diapers/pull-ups and other necessities to last your child a day or two, in case your checked luggage goes astray.

Tips & Warnings

• Pack a bottle of hand sanitizer in your carry-on bag ' it's great for quick cleanups when running water isn't available.
• Some children's shower gels double up as shampoo, to save a little space in your child's suitcase.
• Make sure your toddler's emergency contact information is on the inside of all his or her travelling clothes ' putting it on the outside can be dangerous because children tend to trust people who call them by name.
• Even if you are trying to pack light, be sure to bring a few extra outfits ' toddlers on holiday can make just as many messes as they can at home.
• If your child will be travelling with just one parent, don't forget to bring a signed, notarized letter authorizing you to cross international borders with your child.

[Sherman]

on 1/17/2007 This is a great article! I would like to add that my toddler is young and still needs diapers, wipes and a bunch of other supplies. I found a website that will deliver everything I need to the hotel so that all I have to pack is his clothes. The site is www.babiestravellite.com This is a great article! I would like to add that my toddler is young and still needs diapers, wipes and a bunch of other supplies. I found a website that will deliver everything I need to the hotel so that all I have to pack is his clothes. The site is www.babiestravellite.com I hope this addition to the article helps. I know I was excited when I found it.I hope this addition to the article helps. I know I was excited when I found it.

[Sherman]

on 1/17/2007 This is a great article! I would like to add that my toddler is young and still needs diapers, wipes and a bunch of other supplies. I found a website that will deliver everything I need to the hotel so that all I have to pack is his clothes. The site is www.babiestravellite.com I hope this addition to the article helps. I know I was excited when I found it.

on 11/22/2005 Keep in mind that travel by plane is not a regular thing for most children. How to help a little one understand the security checkpoint? Children (that are able to walk) must walk through alone (this is traumatizing for a lot of small children). What about ear popping? Or toddler travel etiquette? Teach a toddler (in a fun, entertaining way) that there will be long lines that require his patience, not to kick the seats in front in front of him, and ways to keep himself occupied during a long journey.

This site has a DVD for children called "Shae by Air" (it's my favorite):
http://www.goodlittletraveler.com

The premise of the DVD is that children, even small ones, have the capacity to understand what to expect and what is expected of them. With the ability to be respectful, they will become good little travelers. It's for children (ages 2-5), and it comes with a picture packing list, so that kids can take an active part in the trip right from the beginning. My daughter has watched it more times than I can count, and she quotes it when we're on the plane. Equally important, she is excited about traveling rather than fearful or uninterested. I've never seen anything like it - highly recommended! I loaned it to a preschool parent friend of mine whose daughter was afraid to fly until she saw it. I've bought it for about 8 families as birthday gifts.