What needs to be in your child's suitcase.
The Basics
It can be a challenge to keep your child healthy and comfortable during the rigors of travel. While everyone needs to bring a toothbrush and an extra pair of shoes, children need some special items as well. Make sure that your suitcase is stocked with your child's vacation essentials by printing out this checklist.
____ Prescription medications and copies of the prescription
____ First-aid kit
____ Thermometer
____ Children's pain reliever
____ Antibiotic ointment for cuts and scrapes
____ Allergy relievers, if necessary
____ Motion sickness relievers
____ Night-lights
____ Pacifiers, candies, or chewing gum to ease air pressure
____ Plastic bags
____ Durable toys
____ Car seat
____ Stroller, framed backpack, or soft sling-type carrier
____ Stain remover
____ Baby wipes
____ Paper towels or napkins
____ Childproofing gear, such as outlet covers, doorknob covers, and toilet locks
____ Extra changes of clothing (for you and your child)
____ Backpack
____ Pediatrician's phone number
____ Hand sanitizer or sanitizing wipes
____ Bottled water
____ Security blanket or stuffed animal
Packing by Age
If you're traveling with an older child, also include:
____ Travel games
____ Sealed bags with handy snacks
____ Cassettes with their favorite music
____ Your child's favorite video
If you're traveling with a baby, also include:
____ Disposable changing pads
____ Diaper bag
____ Baby powder and lotion
____ Bibs
____ Pacifiers
____ Baby spoon
____ Sippy cup
____ Bottles, nipples, and caps
____ Bottle brush
____ Small plastic bag for diaper disposal
____ Extra cloth diaper
____ Formula or jars of food
____ Travel-size baby shampoo
Packing by Destination
If it will be warm at your destination, also include:
____ Waterproof sunblock
____ Insect repellent
____ Hat or cap
____ Ear drops for swimming
____ Spray bottle to fill with water
If it will be cold at your destination, also include:
____ Long underwear
____ Gloves or mittens
____ Scarf
____ Warm hat
____ Vaseline, to protect face and lips from chapping
Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics; Caring for Your Baby: Birth to Age 5, (Bantam); AirSafe.com; Safer Child, Inc.
