The unpredictability of babies and toddlers just makes traveling that much more interesting. You need to be ready at a moment's notice to change a diaper, give a snack or a feeding, switch from soiled to clean clothes and disinfect an area.
The key is to find items that are compact, and allow you to be hands-free. For feeding, I recommend:
- Hippo Travel Seat Hook-On Chair w/ Travel Bag by Chicco, for those times in hotels and restaurants when no high chair is available
- Dual Voltage Heating Coil in case you need to heat formula
- Purely Yours Traveler Backpack Breast Pump by Ameda, which takes a battery, includes a car adaptor, freezer packs and even features a manual pump when you can't get to a plug
- Baby Food Mill by KidCo, for those times when it is hard to find baby food on the go. Just order some veggies at that fancy restaurant, and grind them for the little one
A traditional diaper bag just won't cut it for travel, either. You want to get something that allows you to be hands-free, and has several separate compartments. Also, it is crucial to have a good changing pad. While traveling, you never know when or where you will have to change a diaper! Here are some top picks for changing and keeping kids clean:
- Diaper Dude Messenger Bag
- Parent Survival Pack
- On the Go Potty by Kalencom, essential if your toddler is in the middle of toilet training on your trip
On to Step 5: Naptime, Sleeping and Safety