Your Child's Packing Checklist

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.