best travel bag for baby

Best Baby Travel Essentials of 2024

Ready to plan a family trip? Our list of favorite baby travel gear spotlights only the best and most essential products for a successful journey. Traveling with your baby (or multiple children) can feel intimidating. If you have limited luggage or cargo space, it's tough to know what baby travel gear is travel-worthy and capable of withstanding the adventures ahead and what you might truly need.

We can ease your troubles with our travel and gear expertise.

When it comes to baby gear, we have lofty standards and equally high testing protocols. Nobody tests baby gear as extensively as BabyGearLab . Over the years, we've tested hundreds, if not thousands, of child-related products, and for each review, we've selected, purchased, and hands-on tested each product in the competition. Our testing covers all aspects of a product, allowing us to compare the contenders head-to-head. You can feel confident that only the finest high-quality products will make this list of the best baby travel gear. We regularly update this list if new and compelling gear outshines a top contender.

Our favorite baby travel gear list includes practical categories to help make your trip a success, including the most notable or budget-friendly products. There is something for every travel enthusiast in our lineup.

Transporting Your Baby

Factors like your destination, adventure goals, the number of children you're hauling, and budget will influence the best stroller or baby carrier you need .

Baby Carrier

A top-ranked baby carrier keeps your little one close as you navigate the hustle and bustle of air travel, public transportation, or locations where strollers can't go. This baby travel gear keeps you virtually hands-free so you can hold boarding passes, reach for snacks, or grab a pacifier. Plus, many parents find little ones are quieter and more content in a baby carrier.

Tula Free-to-Grow

Baby Backpack Carrier

The best baby backpack carrier can work well for treks or stroller-free trips for older babies and toddlers. It keeps your child contained and often decreases meltdowns and tantrums. Many museums and other public spaces won't allow strollers, but a backpack is usually allowed.

Kelty Journey PerfectFIT Elite

Deuter Kid Comfort Active SL

Umbrella Strollers

If your baby's travel gear requires wheels, pack a stroller. Many parents prefer a top-ranked umbrella stroller for travel, given their lightweight and compact design. Other stroller types might be a better fit, and we've tested those too.

BabyZen Yoyo2

Zoe Traveler

Mountain Buggy Nano Duo

Feeding On-the-Go

Bring the baby travel gear you need to make feeding time during vacation more convenient and manageable. While it might feel like you're lugging around a lot, we think you'll be glad you brought the extras.

Kids Lunch Boxes

Grab one of the best lunch boxes for kids to carry snacks in one place.

Bentgo Deluxe Lunch Bag

Protect clothing and make mealtime cleanup a breeze with a travel-friendly baby bib. A silicone bib is easy to clean, dry, and stow after mealtime.

Happy Healthy Parent Silicone Bib

Don't rely on fast food vendors to offer smaller spoons. Stash some of the best baby spoons in your diaper bag for baby's mealtime.

Munchkin Lift Infant Spoons

Snack Catcher

Keep little ones busy and stave off hunger and low blood sugar-related meltdowns with a snack catcher. A helpful snack catcher encourages independence and keeps hands and mouths busy.

Sippy cups allow for independent drinking without worrying about spills and loss of liquids. Little ones like to help themselves, and a water-filled sippy cup can help prevent dehydration.

Pura Kiki Vacuum Insulated Toddler with Sleeve

Munchkin Miracle 360 Stainless

Portable High Chair

A portable high chair or the table booster seat may not be a travel necessity, but they could be helpful if you are staying in one location for some time. A designated place for your child to eat can make a new place feel more like home, and they can enjoy mealtime with other family and friends.

Mountain Buggy Pod

Prince Lionheart SQUISH

Soothing Must-Haves

Packing gear that entertains or soothes your child is essential. If you're flying, you should plan on bottle-feeding, nursing, or giving your baby a pacifier (if they take one) to help ease ear pain caused by altitude changes while flying. Sucking and swallowing motions are the best way to relieve altitude-related pressure changes in the inner ear.

Sucking on a pacifier is a great way to relieve pressure in little ears during air travel, especially for take-off and landing.

Chicco PhysioForma Soft Pacifier

Philips Avent Soothie Pacifier

Baby Bottle

Alternatively, a favorite baby bottle (if your baby knows how to) can help babies relax and prevent ear pain when taking off in an airplane or traveling swiftly from one altitude to another.

Nursing Clothing

Travel is a great time to capitalize on breastfeeding your baby, especially during altitude changes or if the situation might be upsetting, new, or stressful. Nursing can relieve ear pain and calm your baby when you need it most, and a nursing bra can make the task easier to achieve with some modesty when paired with a nursing top with openings for feeding.

Bravado Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra

Ingrid and Isabel Seamless

BOOB Classic Short Sleeve

Fun in the Sun

If you're hitting the pool, lake, beach, or splash pad while vacationing, be prepared with some essentials that keep things safe and the good times rolling.

Sunscreen for Kids and Babies

Protect your child from the sun's powerful rays with one of our favorite sunscreens . We've tested various high-quality sunscreens to help you find the best option for your little one. Any outdoor time should include sun protection, even in the winter.

Babo Botanicals Baby Skin

Swim Goggles

A great pair of swim goggles can make time in the water more fun. Whether you're in the pool, lake, or ocean, swim goggles can improve visibility and comfort in the water for children.

Speedo Hydrospex

Kids Lifejackets

If you're planning time on the water with boating, kayaking, or paddle boarding, a kids' life jacket is a must-have.

Hardcore Life Vest

Road-Trip Essentials

Ready to hit the road? Ensure your child has a safe and cozy seat from our lineup of favorite car seats appropriate for their size and age.

Convertible Car Seat

For many kinds of travel, a top-ranked convertible car seat is a safety must. We recommend finding a safe seat that is lightweight and easier to carry while traveling.

Graco SlimFit 3-in-1

Booster Seat

Choosing the best booster seat is a must for little ones who still need a safety seat. You don't want to lug a heavy or large seat while on travel. Our pick is small, lightweight, and easy to carry.

Baby Toiletries

Like adults, you'll need to pack some toiletries for your child. We consider some health-related products essential.

Baby Shampoo

Baby shampoo can typically double as a body wash, which limits what you need to take on travel. Most adult or hotel-supplied soaps are not suitable for little ones, so don't forget to toss a favorite baby shampoo in with toiletries.

Honest Truly Calming Lavender Shampoo and Wash

Baby Lotion

Baby lotion is essential for soft and comfortable skin, especially if your travel plans include a dry climate or water fun with salt or chlorine.

Baby Dove Lotion

Baby Nail Clippers

You might think you can leave your baby nail clippers at home, but we recommend packing them. Not only do they take up little space, but you never know when a hangnail might need attention. Better to have them and not need them than the other way around.

Easy Grip Nail Scissors

Kid's Bandages

Boo-boos happen, even on vacation. We recommend keeping some bandages in your carry-on, wallet, or other easy-to-access location for accidents away from home.

Band-Aid Bandages Family Pack

Thermometer

Germs are everywhere; the further you go from your bubble, the higher the likelihood of little ones coming down with signs of illness. Having an accurate thermometer on hand can help determine if your child needs medical attention.

Digital Forehead and Ear Thermometer

Dental Care

Don't let dental care slide on holiday. Little ones need to brush regularly, even when away from home. Don't forget your favorite baby toothbrush and a top-ranked kids' toothpaste .

Jordan Step 0-2 Years Toothbrush

Tom's of Maine Children's Toothpaste

Nursing On-the-Go

If you're planning on pumping your breastmilk while traveling, you'll want to equip yourself with the right gear. Here are some pumping products, including some convenient products, that make the process more manageable.

Breast Pump Bag

Carrying a breast pump typically includes a plethora of accessories. One of the best breast pump bags can help keep it all together, offering functionality and extra storage.

Sarah Wells Abby

Nanobébé Duet

Breast Pump

Depending on your travel goals or plans, you might need a full electric pump to meet your needs, but you could potentially get away with a more transportable handheld pump. Check out our favorite breast pumps for recommendations before making a decision.

Spectra S1 Plus

Baby Buddha

Bottle Drying Rack

If you bottle-feed or need to while traveling, a travel-friendly bottle drying rack can help keep things clean away from home.

OXO Tot On-the-Go

Diapering Essentials

Traveling and diapering doesn't have to be challenging. You can carry all your supplies in one place, making it a smooth and efficient operation.

Disposable Diapers

On-the-go diapering is often easier with disposable products , even if you are a die-hard cloth diaper lover. It could be challenging (and stinky) to carry dirty diapers in a bag until you find a way to launder them.

Parasol Clear and Dry

Disposable baby wipes are good for travel and incredibly messy cleanups. Being able to throw yucky things away instead of keeping them for laundering later is a big win away from home.

Mama Bear 99% Water Baby Wipes

Diaper Cream

Diaper rash can result from changes in diet and habits, which are common on travel. Don't be caught without a soothing diaper cream for tiny tushies in distress.

A+D Zinc Oxide Cream

Go for a top-ranked diaper bag that's easy to carry and holds enough items for your travel needs. Also, don't forget a changing mat to make diaper changes on-the-fly easier.

Ju-Ju-Be Be Right Back

Ju-Ju-Be B.F.F.

Gear for Sleeping

Although you can't bring your at-home nursery on the road, you can create a sleep-inducing atmosphere with some handy and portable gear. Keeping your little one on a regular sleep schedule in a calming environment is key to successful travel with little ones.

Travel Cribs

Many parents consider one of the best travel cribs a necessity if their little one hasn't transitioned to a bed. If your baby still sleeps in a crib, you'll find a travel crib to be a big benefit while away from home. It provides a safe and comfortable place for little ones to get some shut-eye. Trying them out at home can help familiarize your child with the new sleeping digs before you go.

BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light

Lotus Travel Crib

Baby Joy Travel Crib 2-1 Playpen

Swaddles and Sleep Sacks

Top-ranked baby swaddles and sleep sacks offer comfort to little ones away from home. Familiar sleep garments and consistent coverage can help toddlers sleep soundly.

Burt's Bees Baby Beekeeper

Night Light

New places can be scary for little ones, and a night light can offer comfort by illuminating the dark, providing a feeling of safety in a strange room or sleep area.

Hatch Baby Rest Night Light

Sound Monitor

A simple and cost-effective top-ranked sound monitor can be useful while staying in new spaces where you might not be by your baby's side every moment. A dedicated unit is easy to set up and use in any location with electricity.

TimeFlys QQ Portable

Sound Machine

If you plan to travel to hotels or with family, nap times might be loud. One of the best sound machines can provide masking of ambient noises and a calming environment conducive to sleep.

VTech Myla The Monkey

Outdoor Travel

If you're an adventurous parent who wants to explore the great outdoors with your child, we've got the inside scoop on some must-have gear. Although flying hinders what you can pack, this list is best for road warriors with a car, trailer, or RV space to spare.

Kid's Bike Helmet

Keep heads and brains safe with our favorite kids' bike helmets ready for every adventure, from a passenger in the bike trailer to a pedal bike and beyond. Don't skimp on safety just because you're away from home.

Schwinn Thrasher

Keep the bugs at bay with a top-ranked bug spray . While young babies should be protected with clothing and netting (not chemicals), older babies and children should use a suitable repellent to help avoid bites, discomfort, and insect-borne illnesses.

Sawyer Insect Repellent

Kid's Fishing Pole

Fishing can be a fun and bonding experience for family and friends. Finding an easy-to-use child-sized fishing pole can help bring joy to the water for pint-sized fishing.

Kid's Bike Seat

Riding your bike with a child on board can give your little one a new vantage point on fun and the environment. Be it a city sidewalk or park, a bike seat can be a fun form of sightseeing for children.

Keep'em Entertained

Wherever you roam, avoid boredom by packing some entertainment. And, if you read books before bed at home or use bath toys , continue the routine on vacation. Children thrive on routine.

Toddler Books

Books can be heavy and perhaps not the best travel partners for planes, but entertaining toddler books can be a great resource for road trips and stays at Grandma's house.

The Pout-Pout Fish

Children's Books

Older children may be more interested in books for older children . Plus, reading can help make time pass while traveling.

Room on the Broom

Teething Toy

Babies cutting teeth will find relief and entertainment with the best teething toys . You don't need a baby in pain from erupting teeth to have a meltdown in public if a teething toy can help ease their discomfort.

Comotomo Silicone Teether

Bathing in an unfamiliar bathtub can be more fun and engaging with the addition of fun bath toys from home. Little ones can stress when exposed to new places; bringing part of your home with you can help.

Munchkin Fishin' Bath Toy

Older Kids on Travel

Traveling with older kids takes different gear for safety, hydration, and entertainment. Consider some of our favorite products if your child is old enough to monitor their supplies.

Kid's Headphones

A great pair of kids' headphones lets little ones watch shows and play games or listen to music without disturbing those around them. If you have multiple kids, headphones can stop the fighting between siblings listening to two different things. Headphones with Bluetooth capabilities are a plus, so you don't have to deal with cord-related snags, tangles, and drops.

Puro Sound Labs

Kid's Backpack

Many kids love independence and want to carry their own gear. Check out some of our favorite backpacks for kids . Plus, it can help ease the burden of carrying too much stuff in an airport or train station for you.

Everest Basic Backpack

Kid's Water Bottle

Nothing leads to a meltdown or tantrum like hunger or dehydration. Little ones need regular snacks and water to keep in top form. We recommend providing a kid-friendly water bottle , so they can stay hydrated. You might want to avoid frequent restroom breaks, but, trust us, thirsty kiddos are far more of a travel hindrance than the frequent need to pee.

Thermos FUNtainer

The best masks for kids can help prevent your child from contracting all kinds of germs. Indoor public places increase their risk of transmitting all sorts of viruses that could put a damper on your travel fun. A great mask can make all the difference in getting to your destination illness-free, so everyone is ready for fun.

Kimberly-Clark N95 Pouch

WWDOLL Kid KN95 Face Mask

More Information

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• Baby & Toddler
• Baby Health & Wellness
• Toddler and Baby Gear

The Best Baby Travel Essentials for Your Next Family Trip

All parents know that bringing baby anywhere pretty much guarantees a bag (or two) brimming with gear —and when you’re packing for an extended trip, the prospect of carrying everything around (and remembering it all!) can be daunting. Thankfully, there are plenty of sanity-saving baby travel essentials out there, all designed to lighten your load. From on-the-go changing and feeding accessories to feather-light strollers and packable playards , these trusty products will make any trip more seamless. Below, browse our handy baby travel essentials checklist, then shop our favorites for an array of categories.

Baby Travel Essentials Checklist

Packing for yourself and your little one doesn’t have to be a headache. To make sure you don’t forget any baby travel essentials, keep this checklist handy as you prep:

Travel car seat

Travel stroller

Travel crib

Baby carrier

Portable high chair

Travel diaper bag (and diaper bag essentials , of course!)

Travel changing pad

Wet/dry bag

Portable wipes dispenser (and your favorite wipes )

Diapers (or training pants !)

Travel potty seat (for little ones who are potty training )

Travel white noise machine

Travel nursing pillow (if you’re breastfeeding )

Baby bottles

Insulated food jar

Formula and snack dispenser

Portable baby bathtub (for newborns and younger infants)

Pacifier clip

Travel toys

Baby Travel Essentials To Shop

Missing a few key items, or not sure where to start when it comes to picking out baby travel essentials? We’ve got you covered. Here, check out top-notch travel strollers, portable high chairs, diaper bags, car seat toys and everything else in between so you’re prepped for any and all travel plans.

Best travel car seat

Searching for a top-notch infant travel car seat? You can’t go wrong with this design from Nuna . It’s made from premium materials, has a secure five-point safety harness and can easily be installed with a seatbelt (no base needed!). This car seat is also Aircraft-certified and can be seamlessly connected to any Nuna stroller. Another feature you’ll love: It has a removable, full coverage canopy that’s UPF 50 to keep baby shaded in sunny weather.

Dimensions: 27.25” (L) x 17.5” (W) x 23” (H) | Weighs: 6.9 lbs. | Maximum capacity: 32 pounds

Best travel booster seat

Traveling with a tot or a kiddo? Don’t forget to bring along a travel booster seat . Our favorite is this design from Peg Perego . It can be adjusted in four different ways to ensure your little love is comfy and safe while en route to your destination. This booster can be installed using just a seatbelt and folds easily for added convenience. When inevitable messes occur, you’ll also love how the cover is machine-washable.

Dimensions: 26” (L) x 22” (W) x 17.25” (H) | Weighs: 14.8 lbs. | Maximum capacity: 120 lbs.

Best travel stroller

Talk about on-the-go: This lightweight travel stroller is just 16 lbs. and meets International Air Travel Association (IATA) requirements, meaning it can be stored in a plane’s overhead compartment. When on the ground, unfold it in seconds and enjoy features like the spacious underseat basket, the protective sun canopy and the advanced four-wheel suspension. Better yet, you don’t have to sacrifice sturdiness for the small size—the stroller can be used from 6 months up to around the four-year mark.

Dimensions: 36.42” (L) x 17.72” (W) x 40.31” (H) | Weighs: 16 lbs. | Maximum capacity: 48.50 pounds

Best travel crib

Wherever you’re headed, making sure baby has a safe place to sleep is a top priority. Thankfully, the Lotus solves that problem. This lightweight travel crib (13 lbs.) folds into a compact carrying case that fits in the overhead compartment and can be worn as a backpack. Once you’ve reached your destination, it sets up in 15 seconds and is super-sturdy for peace of mind. Plus, it doubles as a playard, with a side zip door so baby can crawl in and out.

Dimensions: 45.5” (L) x 31.5” (W) x 25.5” (H) | Weighs: 15 lbs. | Maximum capacity: No weight limit

Best toddler travel bed

Need something a bit more tot-friendly? Then this toddler travel bed will have your (and your kiddo’s) back. Highlights include the sleeping pad, the adjustable sunscreens and the secure anchor straps. This portable bed can be used by little ones between the ages of 6 months and 5 years old, so you can count on it for many outings to come. The best part? It easily folds into the included carry bag when not in use.

Dimensions: 19” (L) x 3.5” (W) x 19” (D) | Weighs: 3.65 lbs. | Maximum capacity: N/A

Best baby carrier

A carrier will let you walk around with baby without having to work hard—and still have the freedom to use both hands. Pro tip: Wearing baby through the airport will let you wheel along your luggage and sail through security without taking baby in and out. A longtime parent-loved brand, Ergobaby stands out for form and function, giving you the option to wear baby in multiple positions.

Dimensions: 6.2” (L) x 9.1” (W) x 10.4” (H) | Weighs: 2.2 lbs. | Maximum capacity: 45 pounds

Best portable high chair

Clip it on, clip it off; this portable high chair creates seating for little ones where there otherwise is none. Suitable for up to 37 pounds, it’s sturdy and durable enough to last through the toddler years. Best of all? It packs flat into the included travel bag. Now comes the hard part: Picking just one of the cute colorways available.

Dimensions: 14” (L) x 17” (W) x 11” (H) | Weighs: 4.96 lbs. | Maximum capacity: 37 lbs.

Best travel diaper bag

Road, train or plane trips with kiddos are what this weekender bag was made for. It weighs only 3 lbs., but don’t let that fool you—there’s plenty of room for your gear, thanks to the convenient mesh packing cubes included and the wipe-open compartment. Need to be hands-free? No problem. Just adjust the strap to turn it into a crossbody. Other highlights include a cushioned changing pad, an insulated bottle pocket and a handy luggage sleeve—score!

Dimensions: 17.5” (L) x 9” (W) x 14” (H) | Weighs: 3 lbs. | Maximum capacity: N/A

Best travel changing pad

Make on-the-go diaper changes a bit less messy with the help of this travel changing pad. No matter where you are, it will offer a hygienic, cushioned surface for baby to lay on while they get cleaned up. We love how this one can be opened with just one hand—plus, it features two storage pockets for diapers and wipes. When you’re all done, fold it flat and tote it in your diaper backpack , your carry-on bag or your suitcase.

Dimensions: 13.8” (L) x 8.4” (W) x 1.6” (H) | Weighs: 7.04 oz. | Maximum capacity: N/A

Best wet/dry bag

What do you do when you’re nowhere near home and you’ve got a handful of dirty cloth diapers and soiled clothes? Grab one of these totes, which separately store wet and dry items in the same bag. Sealed seams prevent wicking and leaking, and a snap handle makes it a breeze to carry.

Dimensions: 12” (L) x .05” (W) x 15” (H) | Weighs: 3.2 oz. | Maximum capacity: N/A

Best portable wipes dispenser

When it comes to on-the-go diaper changes and post-meal cleanups, you’ll likely have your hands full. This is why OXO designed a dispenser that, with a one-handed push of the button, reveals a large opening for easy access to wipes. The handy strap and slim shape mean you can hang it from your stroller or tuck it neatly into your bag. Dimensions: 1.5” (L) x 6.2” (W) x 11.3” (H) | Weighs: 4.9 oz. | Maximum capacity: N/A

Best travel potty seat

Thanks to this cool design, potty training doesn’t have to stop just because you’re out and about. When nature calls, unfold this travel potty seat and place it on any adult-sized toilet to create a smaller, more comfortable seat for your kiddo. Then, simply wipe it clean, fold it back up and place it in the included travel bag.

Dimensions: 13.75” (L) x 11” (W) x 0.75” (H) | Weighs: 12.8 oz. | Maximum capacity: 50 lbs.

Best travel white noise machine

If you’re traveling with a little one who’s still lulled by white noise, this is a must-have. It has all the features you’d want in a sound machine—a variety of white noise and sound options, volume control, long battery life and a lock—all in a compact, highly portable design. There’s even a clip to hang it from baby’s stroller or car seat.

Dimensions: 3.5” (L) x 3.75” (W) x 1.75” (H) | Weighs: 6.72 oz. | Maximum capacity: N/A

Best travel nursing pillow

Nursing pillows are the perfect companion to long breastfeeding sessions—and this one is ideal for on-the-go moms. The unique sling style offers you and baby support, with the distinct advantage of folding into a convenient travel bag, thanks to its slim, lightweight design.

Dimensions: 22” (L) x 3.5” (W) x 5” (H) | Weighs: 1 lb. | Maximum capacity: N/A

Best baby bottle

Bottles are essential baby travel gear for families with newborns or infants. Our favorites are these from Phillips Avent, which have natural response nipples that allow baby to control their feeding pace. They also have a no-drip design, making them perfect for taking out and about.

Dimensions: 2.8” (L) x 8.39” (W) x 6.54” (H) | Weighs: 11.04 oz. | Maximum capacity: 9 fl. oz.

Best insulated food jar

If your little one has moved onto solids , this insulated food jar is the perfect way to keep their food fresh while you’re not at home. The container keeps contents warm for seven hours and cold for five—plus, it even comes with built-in utensils for an on-the-move meal.

Dimensions: 3.5” (L) x 4.7” (W) x 3.5” (H) | Weighs: 8.2 oz. | Maximum capacity: 11 fl. oz.

Best formula and snack dispenser

Keep snacktime contained with this handy container. It seals shut for ultimate freshness and is complete with removable inner sections that let you pack different snacks all in one place. What’s more, its convenient spout makes formula storage and transfer a breeze.

Dimensions: 3.94” (L) x 3.94” (W) x 6.10” (H) | Weighs: 3.68 oz. | Maximum capacity: 27 fl. oz.

Best portable baby bath

Baby is practically guaranteed to make a mess wherever you go—but a portable tub will help you deal with the aftermath. This lightweight one by Stokke folds completely flat, so you can easily fit it in your luggage.

Dimensions: 33” (L) x 10” (W) x 20” (H) | Weighs: 9.5 lbs. | Maximum capacity: 46 pounds

Best pacifier clip

Trying to keep a pacifier in baby’s mouth and off the yucky sidewalk (and all other dirty surfaces) can be next to impossible—that is, without a pacifier clip. This one is a traveling parent’s best friend, thanks to its soft (and washable!) design and easy-to-use plastic clip. This pack of six will have you covered for many adventures with baby to come.

Dimensions: 6.3” (L) x 5.43” (W) x 0.71” (H) | Weighs: 1.58 oz. | Maximum capacity: N/A

Best baby travel toy

Last but certainly not least on our list of baby travel essentials is this best-selling car seat toy. Your little one will love how it’s super-soft and features plenty of engaging textures, patterns and activities to explore. On the other hand, you’ll love the convenient clip-on design that keeps it within baby’s reach—perfect for when you’re driving, or traveling in general. It’s easy to see why it has tens of thousands of glowing Amazon reviews !

Dimensions: 5.3” (L) x 2.8” (W) x 11.5” (H) | Weighs: 15.36 oz. | Maximum capacity: N/A

How We Chose the Best Baby Travel Essentials

We get it—parenting requires a lot of gear, and it can be hard to find the best fit for your family every time. To streamline your shopping (and packing) experience, we browsed baby travel essentials from an array of leading baby brands and trusted online retailers. We considered a list of criteria when sourcing products, such as ease of use, weight, size, portability, quality and durability, value, style and, of course, safety. We also read user reviews to understand how these products have worked for real families on the go, and didn’t consider anything with less than an average four-star rating. What’s more, we also looked for products that meet IATA requirements or have Aircraft Certification where applicable.

Interested in learning more about our editorial process? Read about how our team develops and reviews all articles here .

Plus, more from The Bump:

12 Awesome Car Seat Toys for Families on the Go

The 5 Best Infant Car Seats

30 Tips to Keep in Mind When Traveling With an Infant

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38 Best Baby Travel Gear Items for 2024 + What NOT To Bring

Hi All! My name is Lyric Fergusson. My husband, Asher, and I are the parents of two incredible babies named Kingsley and Aurora (pictured). Our little ones have been with us to France, Italy, Mexico, Belize, Honduras, South America, five Caribbean Islands & on a road trip to California and the Grand Canyon — and having them along has been amazing and mostly stress-free!

This said, as a mama, I fully understand how intimidating it can be to travel with a baby, especially for the first time.

We feel that having the right gear is key to making a family trip a truly enjoyable one, and we believe it is a large part of why we’ve had such wonderful travels with our babies. That’s why we created this guide for the must-haves and great accessories that will make traveling as a family way easier!

38 Essential Baby Travel Items

1. travel stroller.

Airport security rules state that any stroller that weighs over 20 lbs (9 kgs), is too bulky, or is non-collapsible must be checked at the ticket counter .

Mamas, this means if your stroller exceeds the weight limits, you will be schlepping your baby and ALL of your bags through the airport with no stroller. Suffice it to say, you’ll regret the decision to bring a heavy stroller.

This Summer Infant 3DLite is our top travel stroller pick. It’s inexpensive, durable, only 13 lbs, and has a multi-position recline that goes practically flat for an on-the-go nap. It fits in the smallest of trunks and we’ve even hauled it (pretty easily) up and down six flights of stairs in Paris. If the 3D Lite isn’t your bucket-list stroller, check out the Nova for luxury, the Summer Two-Seater , or a foldable wagon which is always a fun idea (especially if you’re hauling around more than one toddler or headed to a beach destination!)

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Stroller + Car Seat Combo

You can compromise with the best of both worlds – opting for this 3-in-1 Trio system by Chicco . It is designed with travel in mind, helping you create a full-blown system that your kids can grow with. While in stroller mode, the canopy expands for UV protection, or you can push it down and click it into place to activate car-seat/booster mode. It quickly folds and unfolds to suit your needs and holds so much stuff like groceries, blankets, etc.

I will say, it’s slightly bulkier than some options, but that’s the trade-off of having an all-in-one piece, which means fewer items to carry around. Overall, it will make your baggage lighter and cut down on the amount of equipment you have to keep up with.

3. Convertible Travel Carseat

While the stroller + car seat combo is ideal for infants, this option is better for families needing more weight flexibility and a car seat for growing kids.

I would never put my baby in a car without a car seat. However, I cannot imagine lugging around our 35 lb one across the airport, let alone Europe! This one weighs only 12 lbs and works for children from 5-65 lbs (check the weight limits for each mode, forward or rear-facing).

Note: All airlines will check your car seat at the ticket counter free of charge.

4. Travel Crib (a.k.a. Travel Playpen)

In our experience, the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib is the best of the best when it comes to travel cribs. It’s only 12 lbs, really well-made, and you can put it together and take it down in less than 10 seconds (without reading any instructions!) The crib has an extremely cushy mattress pad that lays flat on the Earth, (unlike the Guava Lotus which we didn’t like ) and most other travel cribs where the mattresses hover above the ground and wobble whenever your baby shifts during the night (sounds comfy, right?)

It even comes with a chic, easy-to-carry case. Our little guy has slept beautifully through the night on every trip we have ever taken and I really think it is because of this crib. You can let them play and nap in it before you head out so they can become familiar with it. They will sleep so much better!

Note: All domestic airlines will check your crib at the ticket counter free of charge. I always check with international carriers about their policy prior to traveling.

5. Quick-Dry Travel Towels

Travel towels are one of the most versatile items you can pack. It can serve as a drool rag, seat cover, packing cushion, and much more. They’re also amazing for cleaning up spills! When we discovered these, we stopped bringing along bulky towels or trying to pack fluffy ones that the hotel provides when going on beach trips. This one dries 10x faster than cotton and weighs less than half a pound — perfect for in the diaper bag!

6. Travel Insurance for Your Trip

Since your domestic provider typically does not cover you outside of the country, the last thing you want to worry about is rushing a spouse or child to the hospital and having to pay out-of-pocket for a five-figure bill. Protect your vacation investment and your loved ones with travel insurance – it’s a small price compared to anything else you’re booking, yet will cover you for flight cancellations, delays, baggage loss, theft, and expensive medical emergencies.

We use Faye because they are revolutionizing the insurance game! While most providers make the process miserable with tons of paperwork and hoops to jump through – Faye reimburses you through their mobile app, making the claims process a cakewalk. Get a customized quote for each trip and traveler. It’s very affordable for young families since it goes up in cost with age and is worth it for the sheer peace of mind.

Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

7. Diaper Changing Pad

My husband and I use the  Kopi Baby changing pad religiously during travel because it folds up easily into a small bag, keeping everything clean (wipes, diapers, etc.) even when we’re in seriously dirty places.

We have used it on the airport floor, in the Louvre, and in Caribbean bathrooms that had no changing tables. Yuck! It’s honestly the bomb and really worth the spend for travel.

8. Short-Sleeved Bib

These amazing bibs from Bumpkins are my favorites because they are wearable like a shirt. Simply latch the back and your kiddo’s outfit will have full coverage from even the goopiest of foods. It’s waterproof and therefore super easy to clean — even in small cruise ship sinks — while also drying quickly and saving you a lot of cleanup!

9. Hanging Toiletry Bag

Moms deal with more STUFF than basically anyone on the planet (wipes, tissues, first-aid, snacks, toys, oh my!) Use this hanging toiletry bag to organize all of your family’s toiletries in one bag instead of dealing with unhinged chaos all over the hotel room. This is a way easier system than piling tons of plastic sacks with liquid bottles that you’re trying to keep from leaking all over your suitcase.

We’re obsessed with this bag from Eco Sun, a sustainable company in Hawaii that is made by travelers, for travelers. It organizes all of our self-care routines (and thus, our sanity!) with a leakproof design and stain-resistant material. There are 4 pockets on the inside with elastic bands to hold your bottles and brushes in place, plus 3 external compartments for smaller items that you need easy access to. It’s an elegant and cohesive system for an area of my life that would otherwise be pretty stressful on the road.

10. Stroller Clips

Whether you are using a blanket to block out the sun or to keep your little one warm, stroller clips are awesome because they’ll secure the blanket just where it needs to be. That way, your baby can sleep peacefully — and you can push them easily (no more blankets getting tangled in the wheels, blown off by the wind, or dragged on the floor).

Stroller clips are also great for attaching the diaper bag, your purse, baby’s toys, or really anything else to the stroller.

11. Stroller Protector Bag

You will typically have to check your stroller at the gate between flights and this bag will save it from getting wet or damaged as the flight crew is literally throwing it on and off the belly of the plane. The Hap Tim Stroller Bag is extremely sturdy and streamlined, which is helpful when moving the stroller in and out of taxis, hotels, and rental cars, and it has a long set of straps that make carrying the stroller a piece of cake.

12. Wet/Dry Sacks

Poop can happen at any time. In case you don’t want to mess up your nicer diaper bags, having wet/dry bags on hand at all times is beyond useful. These are just as durable as your high-end bags but not so precious that you’ll worry about them getting ruined (about what you would spend on a week’s worth of ziplocks). It also is easier to clean in the washing machine and traps the stinky diaper smell so you’re not trapped in a stink bubble all day! Besides being leakproof, you’re helping Mother Earth by going reusable.

13. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

After having items stolen out of our check luggage, we never forgo luggage locks. We bring a couple of sets for suitcases, city lockers, using backpacks in crowded areas, and more. Plus, these are TSA-approved so you won’t suffer through any hang-ups at security.

14. Insulated Food Jar

This jar has saved us so many times. If your baby is eating solids but is picky, likes warm snacks, or is just not into eating restaurant food yet (and you aren’t too keen on always giving them jars of pre-packaged food), I would bring along one of these. You can bake them a yam at grandma’s or order some steamed veggies at your hotel and throw the food in the Foogo Thermos , and it will stay warm for hours while you tour Rome or head to the beach.

15. Neck Wallet

When traveling with little ones, things can get hectic REAL QUICK while going through airports, taxis, and beyond. This neck wallet makes it super easy to keep track of where your family’s passports, phones, credit cards, cash, and plane tickets are while also preventing petty theft or sticky fingers. My hubby wears his with all four of our family’s passports and when we’re in crowded places, he conceals it under his shirt. This one also comes with RFID-blocking material to stop e-thieves from scanning your financial data.

16. Diaper Bag

For your full-blown Diaper bag, this bag is awesome for allowing you to have tons of storage in a waterproof case. This diaper bag from BabbleRoo is stylish, lightweight, and won’t break the bank. It also has 18 pockets to hold everything from diapers to a water bottle to your cell phone. And if you spill milk (or baby pukes on the bag), no problem! The wipe-clean material is super easy to clean. Bonus: It comes with a matching changing pad in case you forget your Kopi Baby !

17. Sleep Sack

We love the Woolino sleep sack! It is 100% natural, made from premium soft Australian merino wool, has an organic cotton outer shell, and is machine-washable. It also regulates the body temperature and is comfortable for baby from external temperatures as low as 60°F (16°C) to as high as 77°F (25°C).

It’s a great way to keep your honey cozy on an airplane, and so helpful for unpredictable temperatures in hotels or and even at grandma’s house. One extra bonus: we don’t have to travel with many blankets which keeps our luggage weight down.

18. Homeopathic First Aid Kit

Don’t leave home without these remedies – we certainly don’t. They are natural, safe, effective, and don’t cause harmful side effects.

They have saved us repeatedly during teething, tummy aches, or crabby spells. I can’t recommend them enough.

• Camilia Teething Relief  – These all-natural drops relieve painful gums and irritability from teething, as well as associated digestive distress. The single-use containers help prevent contamination.
• Natural Gas Relief  – Even with the grape flavor, these drops have NO artificial flavors or dyes. They provide natural relief for all the symptoms that come along with gas, like bloating, colic, constipation, and restlessness.
• Baby Calm – If your baby is fussy or won’t sleep, try these tablets. They’re quick-dissolving and provide immediate relief, so you can both get back to sleep.
• Earache Relief  – If your baby has an earache, these all-natural drops will help relieve symptoms like fever, pain, irritability, and sleeplessness. The dosing dropper makes it super easy to apply the drops.
• Echinacea Drops  – Our little guy has yet to get sick while we’ve traveled, and I really think It’s due to these drops. If Kingsley looks like he is possibly heading in the sick direction I give him this and it boosts his immune system immediately. He even likes the taste.
• Baby Vitamin C – Vitamin C is another awesome immune booster which I give our son a few days before we begin traveling. I give it to him again if I think he seems like he might be catching something.

19. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Did you know that you risk your private data whenever you join a public network at cafes, Airbnbs, hotels, and the airport? And many people can monitor your online activity without your permission, including cyber thieves, your internet provider, government entities, and nosy neighbors! A virtual private network (VPN) keeps all of your digital information secure from hackers so you don’t have to worry about your credit cards, passwords, or other confidential info getting stolen.

You’re bound to connect to a random Wi-Fi network when traveling, so take the extra step to encrypt your network with a VPN like NordVPN . It’s super affordable and will also limit any local censorship you may face, which can block your favorite websites like Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, and more. We never travel without a VPN and even use it at home to ensure a safe connection! Give it a try, there’s even a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

View options at NordVPN ➜

20. Luggage Straps

Just as every outdoorsman should carry rope – every parent should have this adjustable strap! It’s a multi-purposeful item that can serve you in a variety of ways (depending on how creative you want to get). First and foremost, it secures your checked luggage and carry-on bags for rough handling and takes the pressure off of your zippers.

Beyond this, the brightly-colored straps will help your family’s bags stand out at the arrivals terminal (where everyone and their uncle has the same black bag), so it’s a massive timesaver.

More creatively, you can tether a bunch of bags together, create a makeshift strap if one breaks, compress items that are overpacked, and basically secure anything that is falling apart. I once used these to fix my friend’s suitcase that broke, which got us through to the next flight. And the built-in contact card is invaluable if your bags end up getting lost. It’s one of our favorite discoveries and a must for any traveler’s packing list!

21. Packing Cubes

If you have ever dug frantically into a suitcase looking for a single clean baby sock while your whole family is downstairs waiting for you, you will understand why packing cubes are a necessity! I usually put my son’s t-shirts and shorts in one cube, his long-sleeved sweaters and pants in another, and accessories in another. It seriously helps us stay organized!

Available on  HeroTravelSupply.com  with an exclusive 15% discount using the coupon code  “HERO” .

Or view on Amazon.com ➜

22. Mini White Noise Machine

You might think, “Why do I need a white noise machine when I have an App on my iPhone?” Well, let me tell you that if you use your phone for white noise, that means your phone is held hostage in the baby’s room while you are in the living room trying to make a dinner reservation or check work emails, etc.

This pocket-sized white noise machine was the best purchase we made before our Caribbean cruise adventure. Both at our hotel in Puerto Rico and on the cruise itself, we had to deal with some really rowdy people yelling at all hours of the night. We were kind of shocked – our little dude slept peacefully through the night when we had this white noise machine on. I won’t travel without it now. It takes up virtually no space and you never know who is going to be your neighbor!

23. Sanitizing Wipes

These are awesome! They are cheap and I’ve used them to wipe down airline trays, restaurant high chairs, bathroom changing tables (and of course, our hands) while exploring. The individual packets fit easily in your diaper bag or your coat pocket without being bulky. An absolute 5-star in our book.

24. Baby Carrier

Ok, I know most of you probably already have a baby carrier, but I have to mention this Baby Bjorn Carrier because it’s been amazing for us while traveling.

It’s really comfortable, not bulky, and can easily fold up and fit under the stroller. We even use it as a portable high chair! How? Well, when my little dude was too tiny to fit in a restaurant high chair but was eating solids, he could comfortably have his entire meal while strapped to my hubby. It made eating out really enjoyable and low-stress, plus the carrier is super easy to wipe down and wash.

25. Universal Power Adapter

There are 15 styles of outlets around the world, so it’s nice to avoid buying a brand new power adapter for each country. This universal option is compatible with outlets in 100+ popular destinations and has multiple USB outlets for efficient charging. Not to mention, it very well could be the last adapter you ever have to buy since it comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee.

26. Inflatable Travel Bed

This adorable inflatable toddler bed is a game-changer for kiddos who are too big for a crib but need their own space to sleep on a trip. I worry about my tots falling out of massive beds at hotels or Airbnbs, and this option is comfy, easy to blow up, and keeps them close while still giving them a sense of independence. We’ve traveled with two of these for years and our kiddos are big fans!

27. Neck Pillow for Toddlers

Speaking of difficulty in transit, a neck pillow for kids is smart to have on-hand in case your babes can’t sprawl out. For those of you familiar with the strange positions your children’s heads can get into on long car rides, this one will support your toddler’s neck and be useful in almost all traveling scenarios. Moms that are breastfeeding may consider an inflatable nursing pillow that is made for travel and lumbar support.

28. Windproof Travel Umbrella

An umbrella should always be in your travel artillery and this one weighs only 1-pound and fits in your diaper bag. It comes with a convenient carrying case and has sheltered us from some pretty vicious storms since it’s windproof and covers 2 people (plus baby if you all snuggle close!)

29. Portable High Chair

We love bringing our foldable high chair to make mealtime go much smoother whether you are at an AirBnB or at grandma’s. It works for babies up to toddlers and is a great solution for restaurants that don’t have booster seats or high chairs. It’s compact and has some sneaky pockets, plus a carrying case. The tray is free of harmful chemicals like BPA, and it’s dishwasher safe.

30. All-in-One Food Processor

A food processor is so useful for blending up fresh fruits and vegetables for your little one on-the-go. This set comes with silicon molds as a freezer tray and glass cases for storage. My babies loved easy concoctions like mangos with sweet potatoes, carrot with orange, and bananas with strawberries. Yum!

31. Cooling Towel

For any tropical escapes or warm destinations, this cooling towel is a godsend! It’s absolutely non-toxic and safe for baby to hold onto. By adding water and wringing it out, the towel magically drops to 20-30 degrees colder than the outside temp. Anytime you need more icey relief, simply add more water. It will save baby, dad and mom from heat-induced melt-downs. Try it out and you can thank us later!

32. Baby-Proofing Gear

Babyproofing is something you should consider doing anywhere you stay. Whether they’re crawling, scooting, or starting to walk, it’s a preventative measure worth taking, especially if you are traveling to a home or Bnb that you know is not baby-proofed

Of course, a gate should be kept anywhere you don’t want your little one to roam (like the stairs or outside). For your curious explorers, you may also need outlet covers , safety straps for cabinets, door knob covers , and corner protectors for tables or sharp edges.

33. Car Seat Protector Backpack

Many parents complain that their car seat has gotten dirty, cracked or damaged when they’ve traveled — especially if they check it at the ticket counter. Because of this bag, we’ve never had any trouble.

It’s padded, and although you might look a little ridiculous with it on your back, I can’t tell you how nice it is to have two free hands when you are trying to wrangle multiple children and luggage. I’m a pretty tiny woman, and I can very comfortably wear it while using my hands for other things.

34. Inflatable Baby Bathtub

Not only is this thing cute as can be, but it blows up easily to make a bathtub that’s fantastic for travel. The textured bottom means baby won’t slip around, but it’s small enough to keep them in place. It’s surprisingly scientific since it has hot-white technology that lets you know when the water is too hot, displaying a different color. It was awarded ‘top baby bath’ in 2016 and is easy to drain from the bottom without any heavy lifting.

35. Baby-Safe Dish Soap

Cleaning bottles, sippy cups, bibs, and pacifiers on the go can be a bit of a challenge, I know! And it’s really hard to get to a destination and realize you have no soap to wash your bubba’s stuff (story of my life in the Caribbean… whoops!) I now bring along baby-safe dish soap so that I can be sure that all of Kingsley and Aurora’s belongings stay clean even when I’m rushing to wash them in a tiny bathroom basin.

36. Travel Potty-Training Seat

This is excellent for traveling families with a toddler in toilet training! Not only is it adorable, but it comes in many different colors and latches onto most standard-sized toilets. The foldable design means you can store it in your diaper bag and then whip it out when necessary at hotels, malls, airports, on planes, or wherever. WAY easier than holding your kid in the air as they hover over a gross toilet seat! And super easy to clean.

37. Diaper Rash Cream

This is hands down the best diaper rash cream out there! We initially got it in a gift set with our first baby but have now bought countless tubes. It is the main diaper cream we use, especially if we are trying to treat a rash. We will sometimes use Aquaphor Baby Healing Ointment if we are just preventing irritation on a clear butt. If we have a really bad rash, we will layer and use both. This cream is so thick, smells lovely, and works without the harsh chemicals.

38. Your Favorite Bedtime Story

Maintaining your routine while traveling will add a sense of normalcy to the experience. Your little one will find comfort in familiarity and it will help them sleep in a new place. So bring along your favorite book or try a new one to end the day with a sweet story. Reading aloud builds a network of words in their heads and can help them develop their language and speaking skills more quickly. Plus, your voice is so soothing to them and will help ease them into sleep.

Additional Baby Travel Gear to Consider

• Crib Sheets
• Travel Laundry Bag
• Baby Monitor
• Changing Pad
• Cheap Burp Cloths
• Cooling Towels
• Nursing Cover-up
• Breast-pump Backpack
• Travel Nursing Pillow
• Baby Dishes
• Baby Utensils
• Pacifier & Bottle Wipes
• Roadtrip Organizer
• Travel Towels
• Soft Washcloths
• Swim Diapers
• Stroller Fan
• Spillproof Snack Cup
• Luggage Locks
• Plane Window Toys
• Weleda Baby On the Go Kit
• Kid-Safe Bug Repellent
• Laundry Soap

What NOT to Bring when Traveling with Baby

1. don’t bring a bulky stroller (no jogging strollers.

They’re hard to get in and out of a small rental car, and almost impossible to lift when you’re juggling baby AND luggage at the same time (and don’t even think about trying to collapse it!).

2. DON’T TAKE a bulky car seat

A big, heavy car seat also makes it hard to hold baby and deal with luggage, and even harder to run through the airport to catch your flight! Plus car seats can get damaged when traveling, so you don’t want to be using an expensive one.

3. DON’T PACK cloth diapers

Cloth diapers are eco-friendly, but don’t feel bad if you don’t want to mess with them when traveling. They create a lot of extra work, and you’ll already be plenty busy traveling with a baby.

4. DON’T BRING heavy toys

There’s no need to lug around your baby’s heaviest toys when you’re traveling. Bring their lightweight ones instead, and you can always buy a few new toys at your destination for added fun!

5. DON’T PACK too many blankets

It’s tempting to think you should bring tons of extra blankets “just in case.” Just don’t. Go for a sleep sack instead – they’re easier and they stay put on their own. Bringing extra blankets is asking for weight, bulk, and extra laundry!

6. DON’T TAKE too many diapers

Disposable diapers are bulky, so think about how many you’ll need before you pack (do bring some extras – just not too many extras!). Better yet, have  Honest Company Diapers  ship a pack to your location, or if you’re going overseas, just buy them when you arrive.

7. DON’T BRING heavy baby books

Maybe you want to use your vacation time to catch up on some reading, but this is not the time to tackle that 500-page book on everything you’re doing wrong as a parent. You’re on vacation, treat yourself to some light beach reading instead, and make it even more convenient by using a Kindle .

8. DON’T PACK too few baby clothes

I know this sounds odd, but it’s a balance. Of course you don’t want your suitcase to be too heavy, but you don’t want to spend your whole trip washing either. And honestly, it’s not like baby clothes weigh much!

9. DON’T TAKE full-sized bottles

Traveling with a baby means packing lots of liquids (baby shampoo, baby lotion, dish soap, etc.), on top of your own toiletries. So many regular-sized bottles will be way too heavy, so pack all your liquids in travel-sized containers instead.

10. DON’T PACK too many disposable items

No matter where you’re traveling, you’ll probably be able to get things like wet wipes, tissues, and plastic bags pretty easily. So just bring as many as you’ll realistically use, and know that you can easily pick up more if you end up needing them.

FAQs about traveling with a baby

1. does my baby need a passport.

Yes. Regardless of their age, your baby needs a passport for international trips, including to Canada.

To get them a passport in the U.S., you will need a copy of the birth certificate and two 2″x2″ photos of the baby (from the shoulders up), and both parents need to come with the baby to a passport acceptance facility. Single parents must present a custody agreement, and if one parent is not able to come (such as if they’re stationed elsewhere), a signed and notarized Form DS-3053 will also have to be presented.

2. How should I choose a hotel when traveling with a baby?

• To minimize your time schlepping everything around, look for a hotel that’s near the attractions you plan to visit or at least near public transportation if you’ll be using it.
• Having quiet at nighttime is key, so try to avoid hotels on busy streets, as well as older buildings, which may not have good soundproofing.
• You’ll probably need to do laundry at some point, so check for either coin-op laundry in the hotel or a nearby laundromat.
• Try to find a hotel with large rooms, which will allow plenty of space to set up a crib or playpen.
• Make sure the bathroom has a tub, and not just a shower, which seems to be getting more common.
• Even if the room doesn’t have a full kitchen, it’s useful to at least have a refrigerator, as well as some counter space to make bottle-washing easier.
• If you’re not planning to bring a travel crib, call the hotel before you book to double-check that they’ll provide one.

3. What should I do to baby-proof our hotel room?

• Ask before you arrive if the hotel offers baby-proofing supplies (or even baby-proofed rooms)
• Check that all the furniture in the room (including the TV) is stable
• Check the floor (including under the bed) for anything a baby could put in their mouth: coins, rocks, pills, bottle caps, etc.
• Put blue painter’s tape over outlets.
• Tape foam squares over any sharp corners near the floor
• Tape the toilet lid down
• Tape any electrical cords to the furniture out of baby’s reach

4. Does my baby need a plane ticket?

Different airlines have varying policies on infant travel, but buying a ticket for children under two years old is usually optional. Without a ticket, the baby has to be held on your lap throughout the flight, and some airlines charge a “lap child fee,” especially for international flights.

If you’re planning to fly with a child in your lap, you should inform the airline in advance. But if you’d rather have a separate seat for your baby, you can book them one at a child’s fare.

5. Which airlines are the most baby-friendly?

The best airline for you depends on what’s most important to you when it comes to flying with your baby. These airlines are regularly rated as the most family- and child-friendly:

• Eithad: Their Flying Nannies are special flight attendants whose job is to help you fly with your baby, and they also offer a bottle-warming service on board.
• Emirates Airlines: The Dubai airport provides complimentary strollers, and the airline provides children on the plane with an entertainment kit that includes blankets and a fuzzy “We Fly With Me” stuffed animal.
• Air New Zealand: Their Economy Skycouch connects three seats and converts into a bed for comfort and easier sleeping, and the airline also provides bassinets on board.

6. How much baby food and milk/formula can I bring in my carry-on luggage?

Bring as much as you’ll need for the flight. Baby food, formula, and milk are exempted from the 3-ounce rule for liquids, but you do need to declare it at security so it can be inspected separately. They run a harmless test on excepted baby liquids, and once they’re done they will reseal it and give it back to you.

Even for parents traveling with children, water is still not allowed, so plan to buy it or bring a reusable filtered water bottle to fill up once you’ve passed through security.

7. How can I help my baby sleep on the plane?

Parents planning on using a bassinet, book a front-row seat if possible to make sure there’s plenty of space. Consider bringing a  sleep sack  to keep them more comfortable and a blanket or scarf to drape over the bassinet and block out light. And of course, bring their pacifier and any favorite toys. Feed your baby during take-off, which will help pop their ears, reduce discomfort, and calm them down.

8. How many diapers do I need to bring on a trip?

A good rule of thumb is to bring one diaper per hour of flight or car time, but it’s always a good idea to bring some extras beyond that, just in case.

9. Can I go camping with a baby?

If you’ve never been camping before, this might not be the best time to get into it.

Otherwise, it’s a good idea to get an okay from your pediatrician first, but many families absolutely go on camping trips with infants, and have plenty of fun! You’ll just want to be more aware of weather, drive time, cleanliness, baby-safe  insect repellent , and supplies, and it probably goes without saying that your baby likely won’t sleep through the night in a tent.

10. What are the best places to travel with a baby?

Depending on your travel preferences, beach destinations and national parks can make for great baby-friendly getaways. They tend to be mellow and allow for a lot of flexibility with your schedule and activities.

Alternatively, all-inclusive resorts make things easy and will usually provide all the amenities you need – plus they tend to be VERY fun!

Of course, a staycation or a visit to family or friends are good options, too, and will probably feel a little more familiar to you and baby.

11. What kinds of things are required when flying with a baby? Do I have to have a special seatbelt?

YES, you do need a special seatbelt for toddlers and up to a certain weight. Babies will likely need their own carseat, or you can typically hold them in your lap. If the airline doesn’t require you to purchase a ticket for a lap-child, this is a great way to save money as long as you’re comfortable holding your little one the whole time.

In instances like this it’s handy to have a  baby sling  which can be tightened to hold baby close, or loosened to act as a lap-cradle to relieve your back and arms while baby sleeps.

Verify the TSA requirements for traveling with small children  here .

Here are some links to the relevant car seat rules for the major US airlines so you can be prepared for your next flight:

• Alaska Airlines
• American Airlines
• Delta Airlines (and also here )
• Frontier Airlines
• Hawaiian Airlines
• Southwest Airlines
• Spirit Airlines
• United Airlines
• Virgin America (and also here )

Lyric Fergusson

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The 12 Best Diaper Backpacks for Day Trips and Overnight Stays

Keep your essentials organized and your stress low with these comfortable and stylish diaper backpacks.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T + L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Even a short trip with kids in tow can feel like an epic journey, and taking the right diaper bag along for the ride is crucial. A backpack-style diaper bag is key for comfort while you’re out and about; ideally, you’ll want a model that holds all the necessities for both you and baby and is even, dare we say, stylish? We tested 30 diaper bag backpacks to find the best options, whether you’re venturing out for the day or pulling an overnighter with your kids.

The best diaper backpacks offer multiple compartments and easy access to the critical items inside — because no one wants to rummage through a shapeless, disorganized bag while juggling a crying baby. We evaluated bags based on their capacity, design, comfort, and value, and are continuing our testing over the next six months. We loaded (and reloaded) each bag with bottles, wipes, and diapers, schlepped around the city wearing them. We crammed them into strollers and gave them each the one-handed-holding-a-crying-baby test. (Learn more about our in-depth testing process below.) The models that passed with flying colors were comfortable, intuitive, easy to open, and stylish.

Best Overall

Bugaboo changing backpack.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

This sleek bag was incredibly comfortable, even fully loaded, and necessities were easy to access via a handy front zipper. 

The outer pouch for an adult water bottle is on the slim side and may not fit all bottles.

We love the mix of form and function this backpack offers. It includes both a laptop pocket and a changing mat, and has plenty of snug, intuitive pockets to keep necessities organized. Even when fully loaded with baby gear and a laptop, we found it to be comfortable and light, with the weight of our items distributed evenly. Plus, it looks great — we’d carry this bag even without a baby in tow.

The easy-to-use front zipper on this backpack makes it stand out from some other models we tested. We could access everything we needed via the front, including the changing mat, without having to fully open up the bag and dig around. The velcro top closure is equally simple to use, even one-handed. The bag’s leakproof interior is standard among most diaper backpacks, but the water-resistant bottom is a huge plus — even external spills won’t ruin the bag or its contents. The side pocket meant to hold an adult water bottle is a little narrow and doesn’t fit a larger bottle, but is fine for a standard size. 

Although this backpack is one of the taller models we tested, it still fits easily in the cargo basket underneath both large jogging strollers and smaller umbrella strollers. And, it includes straps to easily attach the bag to the handle of most models. Overall we found this to be the most user-friendly, durable, and stylish option we tested.

The Details: 3 pounds | 12.75 x 6.5 x 17.75 inches | Recycled polyester

Best Organization

Ruvalino diaper bag backpack.

• Design 4.8 /5
• Comfort 4.5 /5

With five separate zippered compartments, this backpack is an organized parent’s dream.

Compartments are challenging to access one-handed. 

This accordion-like bag features multiple zippered compartments and 16 pockets, so there’s a designated space for just about any item you’d need to carry. The separate sections keep everything well-organized and in place, and prevent items from getting hopelessly buried. Even fully loaded, the bag’s weight is evenly distributed, and its padded straps feel comfortable and secure. The two insulated bottle pockets in the main compartment are a nice touch, too, and make it easy to safely bring along formula or breastmilk for a short trip.

Our biggest issue with this bag is the accessibility of the compartments — because of the placement of the zippers, it’s nearly impossible to access most compartments one-handed. We found ourselves needing to set down either the bag or the baby in order to retrieve items from inside, which can be challenging when you’re on the move. Otherwise, this is a well-designed bag that seamlessly fits everything you need for a successful outing.

The Details: 1.78 pounds | 11.8 x 7.8 x 16.5 inches | Water-resistant polyester

Best Convertible

Caraa nylon baby bag.

This bag is roomy and comfortable with versatile strap options.

The backpack straps are difficult to adjust, and the bag doesn’t include a changing mat.

A cross-body diaper bag can sometimes be an easier style to travel with when you’re carrying multiple bags, and we love that this option lets you choose how you want to wear it. It has a plethora of pockets and compartments — more than we could fill in our testing, really — and a comfortable, pillow-like design. The long pulls on its external zippers make it easy to open one-handed, and items inside stayed in place during testing even when we jostled it around.

This bag doesn’t include a changing mat or a wet bag like some models, but it does have insulated, wipeable interior pockets for bottles and clothes. The shoulder strap and backpack options are equally comfortable, although the backpack straps weren’t as easy to adjust as we would’ve liked. At nearly twice the price of most other bags we tested, this one is on the more expensive side, but it is a stylish, well-designed, and versatile option for travel.

The Details: 2.5 pounds | 12.25 x 12 x 5 inches | Recycled nylon

Best Colors

Jujube zealous backpack.

• Design 4.5 /5

This lightweight, compact backpack comes in over 17 different colorways.

The bag’s main zipper sometimes gets caught when zipping and unzipping.

The JuJuBe Zealous backpack comes in more colors and patterns than any other model we reviewed, so it’s easy to coordinate with any other luggage or bags you may be carrying. The interior feels spacious with plenty of pockets, but the bag still feels compact overall. We found the exterior zippered pockets to be especially intuitive, and love that one contained dividers and a key ring for all our non-baby essentials. Pockets are easy to access with one hand, although the main zipper occasionally got stuck during testing.

This bag’s smaller footprint makes it comfortable and lightweight to wear, and it fits into both larger and more compact strollers. It also features a couple less common but very useful compartments: a “tech” pocket on top, which could be used for anything you need easy access to, and a pair of loops in the main compartment for holding a baby blanket in place. We’d recommend this pick for anyone who wants more color choices without skimping on features.

The Details: 2.1 pounds | 11 x 5 x 16 inches

Best Discreet

Herschel settlement sprout backpack.

This is a high-quality, versatile backpack that can be used beyond the diaper years.  

It lacks many of the diaper-bag-specific features that many models boast. 

If you’re looking for a diaper backpack that doesn’t scream “I’m a parent!,” the Herschel Settlement Sprout backpack is a great option. It comes with a removable changing mat, and features the all-important side zipper to easily access items at the bottom of the bag. The bag’s zippers were a little harder to use than other models we tested, but they got the job done. This backpack also comes with a velcro piece that can divide the large main compartment into two — a feature we especially liked for the option to convert it from a “regular” backpack to a diaper backpack easily.

The only real drawback to this timeless, durable bag is that it lacks many of the features that make diaper bags especially useful to parents — but that’s also the key to its versatility. It’s a solid choice for those looking for a diaper bag now, and a well-made backpack later.

The Details: 1.4 pounds | 17.75 x 12.25 x 5.75 inches 

Best Large Capacity

Béis ultimate diaper backpack.

• Capacity 4.5 /5
• Comfort 4 /5

This bag holds more than any others we tested, and comes with a detachable fanny pack. 

Its large capacity also means it’s a big bag, and it feels heavy when fully loaded. 

The Béis Ultimate Diaper Backpack has tons of space and multiple compartments — we can’t imagine running out of room for necessary items, even when packing for multiple kids. The included “changing station” includes convenient pockets for diapers, wipes, and cream all within easy reach, but since the changing pad is built in, babies will likely outgrow this setup quickly. The detachable fanny pack is a convenient feature to offset the size of the bag; it’d be easy to throw your wallet and keys in the pack and grab them separately when needed. 

There is a price to pay for this bag’s convenient features, though: it’s big, and it borders on unmanageable. We had to set the bag down to access anything inside, and when wearing it fully loaded, it felt heavy and unevenly distributed. Because of this, we’d recommend this model for longer trips when capacity really counts versus day trips when the focus is on convenient access.

The Details: 3 pounds | 12.5 x 16 x 7.25 inches | Nylon twill with vegan leather trim

Best With Luggage Sleeve

7am enfant london backpack.

This bag’s removable diaper caddy and attached suitcase strap make it especially handy for travel. 

The grab handles are not as comfortable or convenient as we’d like, so this bag is less versatile than it appears. 

With its attached luggage sleeve and quilted patent look, the 7AM Enfant London Backpack is a chic option for air travel or overnight stays. We found the design of this bag to be especially thoughtful: it includes a laptop pocket, plus a removable diaper caddy with insulated bottle pockets (a feature we didn’t find in many models we tested). The attached stroller straps and luggage sleeve also make it adaptable for whichever mode of travel you choose that day.

There’s plenty of room inside the bag for wipes, a change of clothes, diapers, bottles, and more, but it’s worth noting that it can be challenging to access everything one-handed. The removable diaper caddy helps address this: lifting out the caddy kept everything we needed at arm’s reach. The bag is less comfortable to wear with the included shoulder straps, but worn as a backpack, it’s comfortable and stable. This is a great choice when you’re juggling other luggage in addition to your baby’s bag.

The Details: 2.1 pounds | 14 x 11 x 5 inches | Polyester

Best With Changing Station

Baby brezza dante changing station diaper bag.

• Design 4 /5

This bag’s drop-down changing pad is a game-changer, and we love the 13 different pockets for organization. 

It’s challenging to access items inside the bag with one hand.

With one of the largest capacities of any bag we tested, the Baby Brezza Dante Diaper Backpack is not a compact option, but its multiple compartments and built-in changing station make great use of its ample space. There’s plenty of room to store food, bottles, and changing necessities, and we loved the unique antimicrobial pocket for keeping pacifiers ick-free. 

The built-in changing station is this bag’s standout feature: the back of the bag unzips to access a dropdown changing pad with small nylon “walls” to keep baby’s hands from grabbing at less-than-clean surfaces and pouches to keep diapers and wipes in easy reach. Unlike some models we tested, this changing station can detach, making it more versatile. Because of its large size and various compartments, this bag is not as easy to manage and access one-handed, but it’s a smart choice if space and a changing station are your top priorities.

The Details: 3 pounds | 16 x 14 x 7 inches | Polyester

Best for Overnight Stays

Honest city backpack.

This bag is roomy, stylish, and very comfortable to wear while walking around, making it ideal for an overnight trip. 

Its key holder pocket is buried deep in the interior and not easily accessible from the outside.  

Space and versatility are key when you’re packing up for an overnight trip with a baby, and the Honest City Backpack offers both. It’s plenty roomy inside with two large exterior pockets, and it contains both a wet bag for soiled clothing and insulated pockets for bottles and snacks. The wipeable vegan leather exterior gives it a professional, grown-up look — we could just as easily envision using this bag to haul a laptop and snacks to work. 

Even fully loaded, the padded straps make this backpack comfortable to wear around, and we had no problem accessing the outer zippered pockets one-handed. We did find ourselves wishing for a more easily accessible space for keys — the dedicated key pocket is buried deep in the bag and hard to reach on the go. Still, we’d recommend this to anyone who needs a stylish overnight bag for both grown-up and baby essentials.

The Details: 2.75 pounds | 17.7 x 14.9 x 18.1 inches | Polyurethane vegan leather  

Best for Short Outings

Fawn design the original diaper bag.

Fawn Design

• Capacity 4 /5
• Value 4.3 /5

This bag’s stylish design and more compact size make it easy to grab for quick day trips. 

There’s no changing mat or insulated bottle pockets included.  

For shorter trips around town, the Fawn Design Backpack is a stylish, easy-to-carry choice. The faux leather has a nice feel, and we love the easily adjustable straps. We were easily able to fit most necessities inside the bag, but adding in a wet bag and a changing mat would be a squeeze in this model — one of the key drawbacks to this bag. It features plenty of pockets for grown-up essentials, too, including a zippered pocket that lays flat against the wearer’s back to keep valuables extra secure. 

We had no trouble operating the bag one-handed, from adjusting straps to opening pockets, and although the straps aren’t padded like some models we tested, they are surprisingly comfortable. The lack of an insulated pocket for bottles or a changing mat makes this bag less functional for long outings, but we found this to be a great choice for a shorter day trip.

The Details: 4 pounds | 13 x 13.5 x 7 inches | Faux leather

Best Lightweight

Jujube travel backpack.

This is one of the smallest, lightest models we tested. 

Its features are more basic than some models on the market.  

The JuJuBe Right Back is a small, lightweight option that still offers plenty of compartments for organizing necessities. It’s understated and high quality, and its pockets cater to parents’ needs, including a glasses pocket, a wallet compartment, and an elastic strap for keys. It lacks the clever features some models have, like a built-in wipes compartment, but the included components are versatile enough that it still met most of our needs during testing.  

This bag feels incredibly lightweight while wearing it, and the padded straps are easy to adjust. Because of its compact size, it fits easily into the cargo area of even a smaller stroller. We had no issues accessing most items in the bag one-handed, although we did have to remove the bag to access the changing pad. Some items, like the changing pad and an adult water bottle, are a tight fit in this bag, but it’s a good choice for a lighter weight backpack.

The Details: 2 pounds | 12 x 16 x 5 inches | Polyester  

Itzy Ritzy Mini Diaper Bag Backpack

• Durability 5 /5

This mini backpack still holds everything you need for a day out with your baby.

The thin, unpadded straps make it less comfortable to carry.

The Itzy Ritzy Mini Diaper Bag is just that — a miniature version of a backpack that still has most of the features parents need for a day out. It offers fewer pockets than full-size versions (four external and four internal) and, because of the small size, the pockets themselves are a little less versatile. But, it was still possible for us to squeeze all our necessities into this compact bag and we like that it wasn’t bulky to carry around. 

The front of the bag opens completely, so it’s easy to take inventory of what’s inside, and every zipper could be operated one-handed during testing. However, this backpack lacks padding overall — the included changing pad is a thin vegan leather mat, and the unpadded straps aren’t very comfortable to wear which is something to consider if you’ll be wearing this for long periods. In general this bag holds less gear because of its diminutiveness, but if a manageable size is priority one for your outing, this is a solid choice.

The Details: 2.1 pounds | 11.5 x 7.5 x 13.75 inches | Polyurethane

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Other Diaper Bag Backpacks We Liked

Five of the diaper backpacks we tested did not make our list of top recommendations yet still stood out from the pack. The following bags all had positive attributes, but a few things held them back.

Bag Nation Diaper Bag Backpack : This minimalistic backpack offers a large capacity, thoughtful pocket placements, and a comfortable fit. However, we tested more stylish options in this price range. 

Twelve Little Peek-a-Boo Backpack : This spacious bag is packed with features, including a changing pad, insulated pockets, and a removable pouch for parents’ essentials. Unfortunately, its straps are difficult to adjust and dangled uncomfortably during testing. 

Petunia Pickle Bottom Tempo Backpack : We love this backpack for its gender-neutral design and its deceptively large capacity, but the lack of interior zippered pockets was not ideal. 

HapTim Large Baby Diaper Bag : This unfussy option has a huge capacity and nice padding. However, the only access to the interior pockets are from the top, which makes it less user-friendly. 

Dagne Dover Indi Diaper Backpack : The comfort and chic design of this backpack nearly won us over — it felt like wearing a cloud. However, the interior pockets lost their shape and functionality when we packed other items into the main compartment, making this a less optimal choice. 

Our seasoned testers spent a day in our New York City lab testing 30 backpack-style diaper bags with a range of features. We evaluated each bag on a scale of 1-5 based on capacity, design, comfort, and value, and since durability is key for diaper bags, we’ll continue testing over a period of six months. 

We weighed each backpack ourselves both empty and full, and zipped and unzipped each compartment multiple times to test for ease of use. We packed each bag full of baby (and parent) essentials, making note of how intuitive each bag was to pack and whether there were designated slots for necessities.

To simulate a day out with a little one, we took each bag on a brisk walk and loaded it into two different sized strollers. We also gave each bag the crying baby test: using one hand, we tested accessing items inside and repacking them to evaluate whether the bag would be easy to use while holding a fussy baby or toddler. The bags that ranked highest on all our tests were selected for this roundup. 

Tips for Buying Diaper Bag Backpacks for Travel

Decide the best size for your needs.

Diaper bag backpacks can vary widely in size and capacity, so consider the distance and duration of your trip before you start shopping. For air travel, you may want to consider a bag that is smaller than 18 x 14 x 8 inches (standard personal-item size) and has easily accessible pockets for your wallet and phone; overnight stays closer to home might call for a larger capacity bag you can toss in the backseat. For day trips and short outings, comfort and portability are key, so look for padded straps and a lighter weight, but you may be able to forgo insulated pockets or built-in changing stations.  

Prioritize organization 

When you’re on the hunt for a diaper bag backpack for travel, prioritize intuitive pockets and zippered compartments. Consider how many essentials you’ll need to bring and your specific organization style, whether you prefer a dedicated pocket for each item or a more flexible and freeform setup. Look for bags that offer dedicated space for both baby’s items and grown-up necessities to avoid losing your keys or phone in a pile of toys and teethers.

Look for water-resistant material 

Diaper bag backpacks are prone to spills by nature, so you’ll want a bag that’s easy to wipe clean and keep moving. Look for an interior that’s described as “stain resistant,” “water resistant,” or “wipeable”; polyester or polyurethane (also known as faux leather or vegan leather) are wise choices. 

Choose the right bag for multiple users

Unlike your purse or laptop bag, a diaper backpack is meant to go wherever your baby goes — no matter who’s carrying it. As you’re selecting the perfect diaper backpack for your family, consider who all will be using the bag. A sleek, gender-neutral design can make a diaper backpack more versatile for any caregiver, and a manageable size might be important for petite users. 

While you can technically use any backpack as a diaper bag, products specifically designed as “diaper backpacks” offer more baby-specific features, like insulated pockets for bottles and snacks, multiple compartments to organize essentials, changing pads, and wet bags. Diaper backpacks are also typically made of water-resistant, washable, or wipeable material to make cleanup easier, and usually offer padded straps for comfort. 

Your diaper bag packing list will depend on your needs, the age of your child, and the length of your trip. Typically, you’ll want to bring along diapers and wipes, a change of clothes, a toy or two, spare pacifiers if your child uses them, and bottles or snacks. If you’re bringing along breastmilk or prepared formula and need to keep it cold until you’re ready to serve it, tuck a lightweight ice pack into your bag’s insulated pocket to keep milk at a safe temperature.

Consider the weather and location before you pack: for summer travel, toss in a sunhat and baby-safe sunscreen, and for cooler weather, add a light layer and/or a baby blanket if space permits. Hand sanitizer, burp cloths, and a small first aid kit also come in handy, and most parents choose to throw their own essentials — wallet, keys, phone, and water — in the bag as well. 

Many airlines don’t count diaper bags or diaper backpacks as a personal item or carry-on, which means you’ll be able to board with your purse or tote, carry-on suitcase, and diaper bag. The policy varies by airline, however; United and American Airlines allow families to bring a diaper bag for free, while Delta and Alaska count diaper bags as a carry-on item. Be sure to confirm with your specific airline before you travel. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Mandy Harris is a contributing writer at Travel + Leisure , and has vetted hundreds of parenting products over the last decade. For this story, she analyzed in-house testing insights, manufacturer details, and her own experience as a frequent diaper backpack user to determine the best diaper bag backpacks for every type of travel.  

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The Best Travel Diaper Bags: Our 20 Favorite Picks

When it comes to traveling with little ones, a diaper bag is more than just a place to stash diapers and wipes. It’s the one bag that holds all the essentials and keeps them close at hand for that crucial moment when you need to find a clean pacifier during takeoff and can’t waste a minute digging through baby’s things to find it.

To help you find the right tote or backpack for your next family trip, we’ve rounded up the market’s 20 best diaper bags for travel.

Table of Contents

The Winning Lineup: Our 20 Favorite Travel Diaper Bags

A good travel diaper bag needs to be roomy enough to store clothing, toys, snacks, bottles, and wipes, as well as diapers. and organized enough that everything has its own designated spot.

Along with their approximate costs, here’s our list of the 20 winners in a wide range of prices:

High-end stunners: Diaper bags over $100

• Dagne Dover Wade Large Diaper Tote ($215)
• Dagne Dover Indi Large Diaper Backpack ($215)
• Freshly Picked Classic Diaper Bag Backpack ($199)
• Lululemon New Parent Backpack ($198)
• Itzy Ritzy Boss Plus Large Diaper Bag Backpack ($190)
• Sarah Wells Lizzy Pump Bag ($109)

Mid-priced gems: Diaper bags between $50 and $100

• Kibou Vegan Leather Fanny Pack Diaper Bag ($98)
• Skip Hop Forma Backpack Diaper Bag ($79)
• Skip Hop Large Capacity Mainframe Wide Open Backpack Diaper Bag ($79)
• Hershel Supply Co Strand Duffel Diaper Bag ($70)
• Eddie Bauer Alpine Convertible Diaper Bag Backpack ($60)
• Dagne Dover Joey Changing Kit ($60)
• Eddie Bauer Traverse Backpack Diaper Bag ($55)
• Go by Goldbug Wide Frame Diaper Bag Backpack ($50)

Budget-friendly steals: Diaper bags under $50

• Fisher-Price River Backpack Diaper Bag ($40)
• Trend Lab Diaper Bag ($40)
• Fisher-Price Fastfinder Diaper Backpack ($40)
• HaloVa Waterproof Travel Diaper Backpack ($36)
• Mokaloo Diaper Bag Backpack ($29)
• Bananafish Midi Backpack ($25)

Detailed Buying Guide

No matter your budget, we’ve broken down all the details you need to know before choosing the right travel diaper bag for your family:

High-end stunners: The best travel diaper bags over $100

Dagne dover wade large diaper tote  .

• Approximate cost: $215
• Dimensions: 16.25” by 6” by 12”
• Weight: 4 pounds
• Material: Neoprene and mesh
• Color choices: Black, heather gray, moss green, mauve, and camel
• Care instructions: Hand-wash and lay flat to dry 
• Included changing mat?: Yes

The 19-liter-capacity Wade Large Diaper Tote has a laptop sleeve, a washable zipper bag, and a zip-top pouch included with purchase. Its tote style creates easy access to its many pockets, as well as its wipeable mesh changing mat, insulated neoprene bottle sleeve, and two detachable key leashes. With two stroller clips and a roller-luggage sleeve, the Wade is partially made from recycled plastic bottles and is 100% vegan.

Dagne Dover Indi Large Diaper Backpack

• Dimensions: 12.25” by 7” by 13.75”
• Weight: 3.1 pounds
• Material: Neoprene and mesh 
• Neoprene: Black, heather gray, moss green, mauve, navy blue, and camel
• Air mesh: Black, moss green, and pink
• Care instructions: Hand-wash and lay flat to dry

The 100% vegan, 17-liter Indi Large Diaper Backpack has interior and exterior slip and zipper pockets, in addition to detachable clip leashes that are perfect for keys or pacifiers. Its attached luggage sleeve makes it a great option for air travel. Parents receive a washable zipper bag, a zip-top pouch, a wipeable changing mat, and a removable, insulated neoprene water bottle holder with purchase.

Freshly Picked Classic Diaper Bag Backpack

• Approximate cost: $199
• Dimensions: 13″ by 7″ by 15″
• Weight: 2.3 pounds
• Material: Vegan leather and nylon
• Color choices: 24 total color options, including 11 nuanced neutral tones, 6 themed patterns, and 6 shades of blue and pink
• Care instructions: Wipe clean

The Freshly Picked Backpack has a convenient mom compartment with magnet closure, as well as 10 pockets in total. It features a machine-washable changing pad, a key clip, and a cross-body strap. Various colors are occasionally on sale, and stroller clips are sold separately.

Lululemon New Parent Backpack

• Approximate cost: $198
• Dimensions: 12.2” by 7.9” by 15.7” 
• Weight: Not specified
• Material: Recycled polyester and nylon
• Color choices: Forest green and black
• Care instructions: Spot clean

Lululemon’s sporty, water-repellant, 17-liter New Parent Backpack has a luggage sleeve, a wipeable changing mat, and two side drink pockets. Our favorite feature is the removable changing kit with multiple pockets that parents can wear on its own as a cross-body bag.

Itzy Ritzy Boss Plus Large Diaper Bag Backpack

• Approximate cost: $190
• Dimensions: 14.5” by 10” by 18”
• Material: Vegan leather and polyester (depends on color scheme)
• Color choices: Brown, cream, leopard, brown with beige, black with white and brown, black, lavender, and gray

The fashion-forward Boss Plus Diaper Backpack features trendy color schemes, stroller straps, a vegan-leather tassel, and a lanyard for keys. The backpack has 19 pockets in total, built-in rubber feet, a capacity of approximately 25 liters, and large, insulated bottle compartments.

Sarah Wells Lizzy Pump Bag

• Approximate cost: $109
• Dimensions: 16″ by 7″ by 17″
• Weight: 1.3 pounds
• Material: Nylon
• Color choices: Solid black and several colorful patterns, including gray geometric, blue deco, multicolor groovy, blue floral, turquoise mosaic, and green garden
• Included changing mat?: No

The Lizzy tote is our pick for the best pump bag, with seven total pockets, a 25-pound capacity, and snap-down sides for a customizable volume. It even has designated pouches for baby photos and insulated pockets to keep expressed milk cold with ice packs.

Mid-priced gems: The best travel diaper bags between $50 and $100

Kibou vegan leather fanny pack diaper bag.

• Approximate cost: $98
• Dimensions: 11″ by 4″ by 6″
• Weight: 1.1 pounds
• Color choices: Blush pink, black, brown, charcoal gray, olive green, smoky indigo, jade, and midnight blue

If you want to make sure you’re never without diapers, wipes, and a change of clothes on travel day, grab the Kibou Fanny Pack Diaper Bag , which is made from recycled textiles. It has an envelope-style, waterproof pocket, slots for credit cards, a pacifier hook, a roll-out changing mat, and a wipeable exterior.

Skip Hop Forma Backpack Diaper Bag

• Approximate cost: $79
• Dimensions: 16” by 8” by 14”
• Weight: 1.4 pounds
• Material: Polyester
• Color choices: Black, gray, navy blue, mauve, and sage green

The quilted, water-resistant Forma Backpack from Skip Hop comes with two packing cubes, built-in stroller straps, a cushioned changing pad, and multiple slip and zippered pockets throughout its 15.5-liter capacity.

Skip Hop Large-Capacity Mainframe Wide-Open Backpack Diaper Bag

• Dimensions: 14.25” by 6.25” by 14.75”
• Weight: 1.8 pounds
• Color choices: Black, charcoal, and mauve

The Skip Hop Mainframe opens wide and stays wide open to give clear visibility of what’s inside. It has built-in stroller straps, a cushioned changing mat, multiple exterior zip pockets, and a laptop sleeve.

Herschel Supply Co. Strand Duffel Diaper Bag

• Approximate cost: $70 (depends on color)
• Dimensions: 17″ by 5.5″ by 12″
• Weight: 1.5 pounds
• Material: Canvas
• Color choices: Burgundy, gray, mauve, dark green, black, patterned black, and floral print
• Care instructions: Hand wash

Made with recycled materials, beautiful colors, and Herschel’s signature striped interior, the Strand Duffel Diaper Bag includes stroller clips and a wipeable changing mat with its own mesh storage pockets. Snap-down extensions on either side let parents expand the bag to use its full, roomy capacity.

Eddie Bauer Alpine Convertible Diaper Bag Backpack

• Approximate cost: $60
• Dimensions: 13″ by 6.5″ by 16″
• Weight: 3 pounds
• Color choices: Gray

The large-capacity Eddie Bauer Alpine has 10 pockets total, with stroller loops, a waterproof changing pad, and wide, padded backpack straps. Its neutral gray color is perfect for moms, dads, and grandparents.

Dagne Dover Joey Changing Kit

• Dimensions: 11.8″ by 2″ by 8.3″
• Material: Neoprene and air mesh
• Care instructions: Hand wash and lay flat to dry

Our favorite travel changing kit is Dagne Dover’s Joey , with an extra-large, zip-off changing mat, interior zippered pockets, and two slip pockets that easily hold four diapers each.

Eddie Bauer Traverse Backpack Diaper Bag

• Approximate cost: $55
• Dimensions: 13″ by 5.5″ by 17.5″

Loaded with exterior zippered pockets, the Traverse is an ideal travel diaper bag for parents who want a designated spot for everything. A pop-open, removable wipes case comes with purchase.

Go by Goldbug Wide Frame Diaper Bag Backpack

• Approximate cost: $50
• Dimensions: 14” by 8” by 15”
• Color choices: Black

The 17.9-liter Wide Frame Backpack from women-owned brand Go by Goldbug has 13 total pockets, including a wet-dry pocket, multiple exterior zip pockets, and an extra-large insulated side bottle pocket.

Budget-friendly steals: The best travel diaper bags under $50

Fisher-price river backpack diaper bag.

• Approximate cost: $40
• Dimensions: 12” by 8” by 17”
• Weight: 1.75 pounds
• Color choices: Dark blue

The Fisher-Price River is a classic backpack with an included wipes container and an impressive 20-liter capacity. It boasts an insulated exterior bottle pocket, stroller straps, a padded electronics compartment, and a cushioned back.

Trend Lab Diaper Bag

• Dimensions: 14″ by 5″ by 16″
• Weight: 1 pound

The Trend Lab Diaper Bag has three front exterior zip pockets with slots for bottles and utensils, as well as a large front compartment that fully unzips and folds down for visibility. It sports adjustable, padded backpack straps, large top carry handles, and a roomy main compartment.

Fisher-Price Fastfinder Diaper Backpack

• Dimensions: 12″ by 8″ by 17″
• Color choices: Black, blue, and gray with aqua

The Fastfinder has an impressive 16 pockets total, including designated spots for a phone, pacifier, diapers, and wipes. It features a wipeable changing pad, three insulated bottle pockets, stroller straps, and plastic feet to keep it steady when placed on the ground.

HaloVa Waterproof Travel Diaper Backpack

• Approximate cost: $36
• Dimensions: 10” by 7.4” by 16”
• Weight: 1.6 pounds
• Color choices: Gray and brown
• Care instructions: Hand-wash

HaloVa’s 24-liter Travel Diaper Backpack has a chic look with durable, waterproof oxford fabric and a whopping 40-pound load capacity. Parents appreciate its ample exterior front-zip pocket, wide shoulder straps, top carry handles, and designated compartments for items like tissues, valuables, and damp clothing.

Mokaloo Diaper Bag Backpack

• Approximate cost: $29
• Dimensions: 11.8″ by 7.8″ by 16.5″
• Weight: 1.7 pounds
• Material: Polyester and oxford fabric
• Color choices: Black, blue, gray, dark gray, leopard, and pink

We love the waterproof Mokaloo Backpack ‘s built-in USB charging port and power cable for travel day. This bag’s 25-liter capacity includes two waterproof compartments for wet clothes or diapers, insulated bottle compartments, stroller clips, and 13 pockets altogether.

Bananafish Midi Backpack

• Approximate cost: $25
• Dimensions: 10″ by 6″ by 14″
• Weight: 2 pounds

With a padded changing mat, a zippered back panel for parent essentials, two interior insulated bottle pouches, and 10 pockets in total, families can’t beat the excellent value of the budget-friendly Bananafish Backpack .

The Final Verdict: Choosing the Best Diaper Bag for Travel

When it comes to finding the best diaper bag for travel, the details matter. The ideal bag style, cost, number of pockets, and overall size will vary for each family, but we think you can’t go wrong with any of the 20 favorites on our list. We especially love the Dagne Dover Wade Diaper Tote, the Sarah Wells Lizzy Pump Bag, the Herschel Strand Duffel, and the Mokaloo Diaper Backpack.

For more travel gear recommendations, check out our post on the Best Diaper Bags for Two Kids , or read our guides on the Best Baby Travel Toys , Best Portable High Chairs , or Best Baby Travel Beds .

With a background in medicine as a licensed physician assistant, Christy is a freelance writer and mom of two young kids. As someone who loves to ski, run, and hike, she most cherishes introducing her son and daughter to the beautiful outdoors and spending time with her precious family.

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9 Baby Travel Essentials (+ Baby Packing List!)

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Planning to travel with a baby? That first trip with a baby can be a little overwhelming with unknowns of what to pack and the logistics of figuring out how to get it all to your destination.  To help make the process a little easier (and think about what baby registry items you need for those future vacations) we put together a list of baby travel essentials. While this list isn’t too much different from our toddler travel essentials , there are some smaller items that are important to make your trip as seamless as possible.

Keep reading for our baby travel must-haves and a packing list for babies at the end!

Travel Crib and/or Bassinet

Sleep is so important to babies whether at home or away, and having a good travel crib is one of the top travel essentials for baby. Not sure what to look for in a baby travel crib? The best baby travel cribs are usually lightweight and easy to set up. Our best recommendations for a travel crib for babies are listed below.

• A regular  pack ‘n play  with a bassinet is a less expensive option for a baby travel crib. They can sometimes be a little too heavy and cumbersome to travel with, but you can typically request a pack ‘n play at your hotel. There’s also a standard pack ‘n play without the bassinet or a deluxe pack ‘n play that includes a travel bassinet.
• For a lightweight travel crib that’s easy to set up and put way,  this  portable crib is awesome. It has a comfortable memory foam mattress and a zipper on the side to make it easier to get infants in and out.
• When flying with a baby to your destination,  this lightweight works well. It can take a few more minutes to set up than other options, but it fits easily in a regular suitcase. ( This  option is also a less expensive alternative to the Phil and Ted’s travel crib.)
• This  travel crib is another great option that we have used as well. It’s a little more expensive than the other options listed, but it’s a travel crib with a bassinet and a removeable changing table as well.

You can also rent a full size crib from BabyQuip here and have it delivered to your destination.

Pro Tip: As your baby gets older, consider using a Snoozeshade or or Slumberpod blackout crib cover. They make the crib dark and baby can’t see you when sharing a room!)

Travel Bassinet

If you’re traveling with a newborn or younger baby, you may want to consider a baby travel bassinet that you can use both at home and when traveling.  We’ve included some of the best options for a portable bassinet for travel below.

• This portable bassinet is great for both at home or travel. It’s also large enough for most babies to use up to 6 months or older. (We used it for both of our kiddos for the first four months and traveled often with it.)
• This super lightweight travel bassinet is great to take outside or anywhere you go. 
• This baby travel bassinet with a sunshade that doubles as a small beach tent for babies as well. (It’s a great option for camping with babies too!)
• You can find another travel bassinet with a cover to use both at home and for travel here . (Full disclosure, this is the only one we haven’t personally used.)

Travel Stroller For Babies

A baby travel stroller is usually more lightweight and easy to fold up than a traditional travel system. Anything that minimizes the weight and amount of stuff you have will make your life easier, making this one of our top must have items for traveling with a baby. When searching for the best baby travel stroller, be sure to look for something with adequate sunshade that reclines easily for naps on the go. Some of the best baby travel strollers for infants through toddlers are listed below.

• YoYo Babyzen is lightweight at about 14 lbs, has a one handed fold and can be used from birth up to 40 lbs. One of the major downsides of the YoYo Babyzen is the high price point compared to other travel strollers.
• GB Pockit+ is a very lightweight travel stroller that folds up small to fit in an overhead bin on airplanes. 
• Mountain Buggy Nano Stroller is another one of the best travel strollers compatible with an infant car seat, and it also has a lie flat option with a “cocoon” cushion. It weighs about 13 lbs and can be used for kids up to 44 lbs. 
• Zoe Traveler stroller is only 11 lbs and can be used for babies 3+ months up to 45 lbs. It also folds up small and can be brought as a carry-on backpack on planes. Zoe also makes one of the lightest double strollers for travel as well. (For $20 off, use my Zoe stroller referral link here .)
• Summer Infant 3D Light is a more affordable (but still very functional) travel stroller that can be used from 6 months up to 50 lbs. The only downside is that it can’t be used for newborns and is not car seat compatible. 

Additional Tips for Choosing a Travel Stroller

• Be sure to check minimum age recommendations and stroller compatibility with an infant car to ensure it meets your needs. Some travel strollers can be used from birth on, and others have a minimum age requirement of 6+ months. 
• A jogging stroller is another option if you’re planning to bring it on the beach or hiking trails. (The downside is that it’s very heavy.) We’ve also used our Baby Jogger City Select Single to Double Stroller for travel, but the downside is that it’s heavy and the seats have to be taken out to fold it up.
• If you want a for a double travel stroller for twins or more than one child, side by side strollers are usually the easiest to navigate while traveling. (And they fold up in one piece.) The Zoe double stroller or Summer Infant double stroller are two great options.
• A car seat frame is an inexpensive alternative if you’re not planning to do a ton of walking. We’ve used this infant car seat stroller frame with both kids over the years. It was definitely one of the best baby registry items we received for everyday use and travel. 

Travel High Chair

A travel high chair is another one of the best baby travel items to have.  While it may not always be necessary if you’re just eating at restaurants, it’s especially useful if you’re staying at a vacation home, visiting family or spending time outdoors. 

We use this portable high chair on a regular basis, and we keep it in our car for visiting friends or going to some of our favorite kid-friendly breweries. (We also use it at home when eating outside!) While it’s perfect for road trips, it’s a little too bulky to take on flights with a baby.

We also use this clip-on high chair at our home on a daily basis. It only weighs 3 pounds, making it a great baby travel high chair for flying to your destination. The only downside is that it doesn’t work with tables that have a “lip” on them, so you may want to check before arriving at your destination. 

• Disposable Placemats

While this isn’t one of the pricier baby travel products mentioned above, disposable placements are one of the best baby travel essentials. Most restaurants only offer breakable plates or paper placemats that babies can easily throw. These adhesive placemats stick right on the table and you throw them away after your meal, making cleanup a breeze. (Both of our kids also had a weird habit of wanting to chew on tables when they were teething. So this also covers the end of the table up to prevent extra spreading of germs!)

Baby Carrier

A baby carrier is another one of our top travel must haves for baby. If you want a baby carrier for travel from infant to toddler ages, a soft structured baby carrier like this one is the most versatile we’ve used. Whether you want a carrier for hikes with a baby or something to use on terrain that a stroller can’t reach, it’s perfect for either. It has an infant insert, and we’ve used it as a backpack style toddler carrier as well. 

A few options for baby carriers for travel (or everyday use) include:

• Solly Baby Wrap : Fabric baby wrap that’s especially great for baby wearing in the airport. The Moby baby carrier is a similar alternative.
• ErgoBaby 360 : All position baby carrier that’s super versatile from newborns to toddlers.
• LILLEBaby : Another baby carrier with multiple positions from babies to toddlers.

Diaper Bag For Travel

Whether you’re navigating the airport or the amusement park, the best baby travel bag is typically a hands-free diaper backpack. (And fortunately backpack style diaper bags are super popular right now, so there are many options to choose from!) When searching for the best travel diaper bag, be sure to look for one that comes with a changing pad, a bottle cooler (or space for bottles) and several compartments for storing necessary items in a baby carry-on like snacks and toys. 

We have a faux leather diaper backpack similar to this one and have also used our standard travel backpack before.

Travel Bottle Washing Set

You’re bound to be washing bottles or pump parts during your vacation with a baby. (Whether they’re breastfed or bottle fed!) This travel bottle washing set is one of the best baby travel items. It includes a drying rack, and bottle brush in a compact box that closes. It also makes a unique baby registry idea if you’re looking for items the mom to be may not have thought of. 

Pro Tip: Be sure to also bring a small travel bottle of dish detergent with you. We just use reusable travel toiletry bottles and fill them up with our standard free and clear dish soap.

• Sound Machine

Aside from a good travel crib, a sound machine is another item on our list of travel essentials with baby that helps the whole family sleep. Sound machines help keep their routine consistent at home and away, and they drown out noises if you’re sharing a room with a baby on vacation. There are a variety of options for baby sound machines depending on how much room you have in your luggage. 

• A standard baby sound machine that’s lightweight and still easy to pack without taking up too much space. (We use this portable sound machine at home and away.) 
• A small travel sound machine for a stroller or on-the-go is another option. We have this one . 
• There are also several sound machine apps available on your phone. We use the Guva free sound machine app for babies that also allows you to record a sound as well. (I even recorded myself shushing to help our second child fall asleep for naps.)

Baby Toys and Teethers

Babies are constantly chewing and dropping things.  So we recommend a variety of baby travel toys and teethers for your trip with a baby. A few baby travel items we don’t leave home without include:

• A multi-sensory baby toy that can be clipped on a stroller or car seat.
• Several teethers and different pacifiers (if your baby uses one.)
• A lovey or stuffed animal that your baby uses for comfort.
• A simple, small toy like these stacking cups to use at your destination.
• An interactive book with flaps or different textures. (Shop my Usborne Books & More storefront for ideas!)

Pro tip: Bring a Ziploc bag for dirty toys that need to be cleaned at your destination. (Especially if you’re traveling with a baby on an airplane and they drop toys.)

Related Post: 10 Baby & Toddler Travel Toys Under $10

Baby Packing List For Vacation: More Must Haves for Traveling with a Baby

Traveling with babies usually requires so much stuff. Much of which you’re probably not used to bringing if you’re new to traveling with kids. We recommend having a standard baby packing list that you can use for each vacation with a baby. (In addition to your standard diaper bag of course!)

This packing list for baby includes several items we (usually) don’t leave home without.

Clothing Items*

• Outfit for each day along with extra onesies
• Pajamas/ sleepers (bring extra for younger babies)
• Socks and shoes
• Swimsuits/ swim diapers (for the pool or beach with a baby )
• Baby hat- beach hat, baseball hat or winter hat

*Clothing needs vary depending on weather and activities.

Linens 

• Sleep Sack or Swaddles
• Light blankets (we love these muslin blankets)
• Crib sheets
• Baby towels/ washcloths

Baby Equipment for Travel**

• Travel Crib
• Portable High Chair
• Car Seat (with a car seat bag if you’re flying)
• Blowup baby bathtub (If a tub isn’t available at your destination)

**Some baby equipment may be available at your destination. Be sure to check first. You can also rent baby equipment from BabyQuip and have it dropped off at your destination.

Miscellaneous Items

• Diapers 
• Baby Wipes (bring extra for messes)
• Pacifiers & Teethers
• Baby Toys & Books
• Bottles and/or sippy cups
• Bottle washing set +dish soap
• Breast pump + parts
• Baby monitor
• Ziploc bags
• Car window blackout curtains for road trips with baby  
• Kindle or iPad with rubber case (if you do screen time)

Baby Toiletry Bag

• Baby shampoo
• Infant Tylenol/ Ibuprofen
• Diaper cream
• Baby lotion
• Small amount of soap for handwashing soiled clothing

Documents for Traveling With a Baby

• Insurance card
• Passport (for international travel with a baby)
• Copy of baby’s birth certificate (if you’re flying)

Pro Tip: If you’re flying to your destination, share a large suitcase with your baby using packing cubes . (This will save money on fees and also minimize the number of items you’re traveling with.) You can also ship diapers/ wipes to your destination or purchase them there.

Related Posts:

• Packing Tips and Beach Essentials for Baby
• Flying With a Baby: Tips for Before, During and After Your Flight
• Road Trip With a Baby: How to Survive Long Drives with Baby
• 5 Must Have Travel Essentials for Toddlers
• Intro to Traveling With a Baby

Do you have any must-have baby travel items that aren’t on this list?  Please share in the comments if you have any favorite baby travel products to add!

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The Best Baby Travel Gear – A Complete Guide

Baby and travel. They’re not two words that new parents would think can be put together, but guess what. They can! You can totally travel with a baby, it just needs some extra planning. And to help you out, I’ve put together a list of the best baby travel gear so you don’t forget anything. This is a comprehensive list of the best baby travel products to ensure your first trip with baby goes as smoothly as possible.

Stroller clips

Change of clothes, baby monitor, spill-free snack pots, first aid kit and medication, faq’s for traveling with a baby.

Our son started travelling when he was four months old when I drove and took the ferry from Wales to Ireland to visit our family. The journey, in total, was 7 hours each way and was a baptism of fire. A few months later we were jetting back to Ireland for weekends with family before heading to Gran Canaria for our first family holiday.

Since then he’s covered over 70,000 nautical miles, as well as having many miles of road tripping under his belt. But, when travelling with him as a baby, things were a lot different to how they are now he’s older. We learned along the way, found out what we absolutely needed and some things we didn’t, and there were even some mistakes made and items we wished we had known about to make travelling with a baby even easier.

So, with all of that in mind, I’ve put together this list of the best baby travel gear, which includes some of our all-time favourite baby travel items, and some we didn’t know about at the time but have since realised would have made those days much easier.

Best Baby Travel Gear

When you are a new parent embarking on your first trip as a family, one question that is probably going around and around in your head is

What to pack when traveling with a baby.

There are certain items of baby gear travel that are a necessity and some that are “nice to have”. When traveling with a baby, portable baby stuff is also a must and small baby travel items are too. To help you prepare and learn exactly what you might need to bring for your first family trip, I’ve listed out my top picks for the best baby gear for travelling. These are divided into sections for generally getting around, travelling by airplane, eating, sleeping and other great accessories to consider.

Best Baby Gear for Travel – Getting there and around

Let’s start with how you are getting to the destination for your first vacation away with your baby and how to safely get around while you are there. And safety is key when it comes to transporting our babies while travelling.

Baby Travel Car Seat

A must-have for baby car travel is a baby car seat . In most countries around the world it is illegal to travel in a car with a baby without them being in a child restraint seat or baby seat. No matter where you are travelling with your baby in a car, a baby safety seat is a must. If you are going to be taking a road trip with a baby, for added security ensure your baby car seat is an Isofix one.

Our choice of baby car seat for our son was a Maxi Cosi seat with an Isofix base . It was super easy to lift the baby seat in and out of the car, which meant if he was asleep, we were highly unlikely to wake him up. Lifting him from the car seat to his crib was another matter!

Once your baby grows out of their baby car seat, you need to invest in a child safety seat in the next group up. These safety car seats can be easier to move between vehicles and our child safety seat of choice was a Klippan Triofix for my car, the one we used the most. This is a group 1-3 model which comes with an Isofix base and can be used rear facing until your child is 18kg. Our son was rear facing until almost 5 years of age when his legs started becoming too squashed.

For my husband’s car which we used occasionally with our son, our choice of car seat was a Graco Slimfit .

Baby Travel Stroller

To ensure you have the best baby gear for travel and can get around easily to enjoy some exploring on your family vacation, you are going to need to think about a stroller . Now, I am not talking about your travel system you have for when you are home and out and about. I am talking about a lightweight, versatile stroller that can go all the way to the airplane door with you. Note that for most airlines, any stroller over 20lbs or 9kgs must be checked in.

We realised we would need one after I had to haul our travel system stroller with me, in the car, all the way to Ireland and back. It took up a lot of room in the trunk and I soon realised it wasn’t going to be easy to use while taking a plane. So, we went in search of something better and landed on a Maclaren stroller that was umbrella-style. Maclaren is a brand that has been used in my family for decades and I knew it would be well-made and durable. Which is what you need if baggage-handlers are going to be hauling it from terminal to plane and back again.

Whether you go for an umbrella-style, lightweight travel stroller, or a folding one, it needs to be lightweight. Friends of ours went with an UPPAbaby MINU Stroller which weighs just 15.2lbs or 6.9kgs and has one-hand folding.

Another addition to the market since our son was a baby is the Pockit+ . This super lightweight stroller can be folded in two easy steps and actually taken on board as hand luggage. It’s small enough to fit into most overhead compartments. The weight of this stroller is just 10.4lbs or 4.7kgs. It is recommended only for babies that can hold their own head up. Had this been available when our son was a baby, we would have bought this for flying.

Travel Baby Carrier

One of the best baby travel items I had was a baby carrier . While my son took some time to adjust to it, our baby carrier was a lifeline, both at home and while travelling. I could get my housework done while he slept as he hated being put down in the early days. And it made flying solo with him so much easier. There is nothing worse than landing and having to struggle to cart the diaper bag, other bag and baby from the plane to the carousel while you wait for your stroller to arrive.

Having a baby carrier frees up your two hands and make life easier. We were gifted a Baby Bjorn Baby Carrier and it was just brilliant. It was super comfortable to wear and made travelling with a baby easier.

Stroller and Car Seat Cover

If you are going to be heading somewhere warm and sunny, you may want to think about investing in a stroller and car seat cover.

A car seat cover will help shade your baby, keep bright lights off them and help them to sleep while on the go. The Snoozeshade Car Seat Canopy Lite is a universal car seat shade that will create a dark space for your baby to sleep in while also shading them from harmful UV rays.

We didn’t have a car seat shade but we did invest in the Snoozeshade Stroller Sun Cover which helped keep the bright sun of the Canaries off our son. It also worked at home in Wales on sunny days.

One word of warning though. Use this only when your baby is due a nap and try to keep them out of the sun during the heat of the day if you are in a hot country.

We found that it got quite warm inside the stroller, even with the shade, when we were in the Canaries, so use it sparingly with your baby and monitor the heat inside if you are in a hot environment.

When I discovered stroller clips for my diaper bag, they changed my life. Ok, that’s a bit of an exaggeration but they did make travelling with my son super easy.

Not only can they be used to attach your diaper bag to your stroller and keep it secure, they can use used to attach other items to your stroller like a blanket for shade or your baby’s favourite toys. They can even be used for grocery bags. There are various types available on the market but my personal favourite were the ones shown in the image.

Best Baby Airplane Travel Gear

This section is dedicated to the best baby airplane travel gear. Flying with a baby can be nerve-racking for the first time but these items can help make you a bit less nervous and hopefully steer you towards a great flight with your little one.

Sanitizing wipes

Something we don’t get on an airplane without these days are sanitizing wipes . Our son picked up what we were told was flu, on a set of flights from Portugal to Thailand in December 2019, and he became seriously ill. So much so, he needed to see a doctor as his fever was not going down.

Now, we take sanitizing wipes in our hand luggage and clean all surfaces on and around our seats before we do anything else. It is a precaution and some passengers may look at us like we are crazy, but if it prevents one of us from becoming ill, then we’re happy to do it.

Make sure to sanitize all surfaces including belt buckles, arm rests, tray tables, the whole surface around it and any plastic/metal surfaces you or your baby may touch. We also, always, carry hand sanitizer too.

Stroller Protector Bag

One of the baby air travel essentials that you might not have considered is a stroller protector bag. I’m sure you have had a suitcase come out on the carousel looking like it’s gone twelve rounds with Mike Tyson.

Now imagine your stroller coming out in that state and discovering it has been damaged beyond repair. Or you arrive at your destination to pouring rain and your stroller arrives soaking wet.

Enter the stroller protector bag. Not only can these help keep your stroller dry, they can add a bit of protection to them and encourage baggage handlers to take a little more care with them. If you have an umbrella-type stroller for travelling, then we recommend this stroller protector bag .

Car Seat Protector

Just as above, you need to protect your child’s car seat if you are bringing it on the flight and it is going in the hold.

A car Seat Protector bag will help keep your baby’s seat dry and free of germs, and if you pack it with towels and blankets, you can add further protection to it as well. If your car seat manufacturer does not do custom-made bags, consider purchasing this car seat protector bag for your next flight.

Lightweight blankets

Planes can get pretty chilly, especially long-haul. So, to ensure your baby has an as comfortable flight as possible, bring along a few lightweight blankets . They need to be light so as not to take up too much weight or room, but should be sufficient enough to help keep your baby warm.

Travel toys

Although babies don’t need a huge amount of entertaining, not compared to toddlers or older kids, it is still wise to pack a few toys in case they start to get a bit bored. Try not to pack too much (weight) and try to avoid noisy toys that may annoy your fellow passengers.

Make sure you pack at least one change of clothes for your baby in your carry-on luggage, more if you are flying long-haul. Travel sickness could hit or your baby might spit up their feed and you don’t want your baby to be uncomfortable along the flight. It is also a good idea to at least pack a change of tops for you and your partner in case they get you in the process.

This was one of those tips for flying with a baby that I heeded from the very start. You can find lots more tips in that post including making sure you have more than enough diapers and food for your baby for the trip and anymore unforeseen delays.

Travel Baby Gear – For sleeping

You are also going to want the best travel baby gear to ensure they nap and sleep comfortably. Their sleep patterns may be disrupted somewhat, but there are some things you can use to ensure this disruption is minimal.

Baby Travel Sleep Bags

In my opinion, the best gear for traveling with baby has to be baby travel sleep bags. We were gifted a Grobag for our son after he was born and they literally transformed our lives. From then, and until our son was about one and a half years of age, we used Grobags both at home and when we were travelling. We never experienced any significant disruption to his sleep because they were part of his nap and bedtime routine.

Now, you don’t have to just go with Grobags. Any baby travel sleep bags will do just as well. Make sure to assess the tog rating as you don’t want a 2.5 tog in a very hot country, and vice versa.

If you are looking for an all-seasons baby sleep bag, then I highly recommend the Woolino Merino Wool Sleep Bag . This optimal weight merino wool bag can be used in four seasons, negating the need for different baby sleep bags in different togs, meaning you only need one for home and away!

In our travel gear for baby items we had for our son, one of the best investments we made was in a sleep pod. Originally called the Sleepyhead, the Dockatot is a versatile, lightweight and portable baby lounger that we used mainly for safe co-sleeping and as a place for our son to sleep while travelling.

It came with me on that first ferry trip home to Ireland and not only did my son stick to his sleep routine, he slept soundly because his sleep pod smelled like home. He didn’t really realise we were in strange surroundings. Combined with his Grobag baby sleep bag, his sleep was not disrupted, then or on future travel trips.

White noise machine

Another great baby item in our arsenal was his white noise machine. We bought a Ewan the Dreamsheep that has four different white noise sounds and both he and I regularly fell asleep listening to the harp song. It was seriously that relaxing. Putting Ewan on when our son was in his sleep bag and placed into his sleep pod let him know that it was time to sleep. And although the song played for 22 minutes, he never got to the end of it.

Any white noise machine that is lightweight and portable could be your secret weapon to ensuring your baby sticks to their sleep patterns and routine, even when traveling. I prefer the ones that are incorporated into a cuddly toy so that it can even be brought onto the plane to help with nap-time.

If you cannot get Ewan, this rabbit white noise machine from Amazon looks super cute. It has 10 lullabies, a night light and doubles up as a sleep comforter.

Blackout curtains

Another one of those must-have items for traveling with baby are blackout curtains. Unless you are going to the Arctic Circle in the depths of winter where there is very little daylight, you are probably going to struggle with creating a dark enough environment for your baby to nap in. That is where portable, travel blackout curtains come into play.

We purchased the Gro Anywhere Blackout Blind and even used it at home during the bright days of summer. It meant daytime naps were easy thanks to the dark room they helped create.

They fold up small and come with their own storage/carry bag. So, if you are going to be travelling somewhere that is likely to be bright and sunny during the day, invest in some travel blackout blinds.

Travel Crib

If you don’t like the idea of a sleep pod, another option is a travel crib. Also known as travel play pens, these can double up as somewhere for your baby to play safely while also being your own sleeping crib in hotel rooms or other vacation accommodations.

Pro tip: Get them used to the space at home before you travel so it is a familiar place for them.

The LuckyDove Portable Travel Crib and Pack ‘n’ Play is a perfect travel crib. This travel crib provides a safe place for your baby to play and sleep in, and it has a side zipper door for easy access for parents. It weighs just less than 14lbs or just over 6kgs and comes with its own bag for easy transport, even on planes. Don’t forget your crib sheets!

Baby Travel Tent

Another sleeping option is a baby travel tent, such as the KidCo PeaPod Plus Travel Tent. Baby travel tents can be used for sleeping, playing in and many can be used at the beach, making them multi-purpose.

The KidCo Travel Bed Tent is lightweight, portable and comes with its own carry bag. It weighs just 3.5lbs or just over 1.5kg and packs down small enough to fit into standard carry-on bags. The built-in UV protection makes it ideal for using outdoors as well as indoors and it can even be used camping. This is recommended as a travel bed for children between the ages of 1 and 5.

Our first family holiday abroad to the Canary Islands saw us leave our baby monitor at home. Big mistake. Although we had a terrace directly off our room, the door could not be left open if we needed the air con on. And it needed to be on. The heavy patio doors also meant hearing our son wake from naps was quite difficult.

Next time, we didn’t make that mistake and brought our baby monitor with us. This made us more comfortable staying in hotels and accommodation and sitting on the balcony and terrace in the evenings while still being able to keep a close eye on our son in the bedroom beside us. And more importantly, that we could leave the air con on if necessary. We could close the door so no insects or mosquitos entered the room, keep the rom cool, all while still chatting or reading our books while our son slept.

Whatever type of monitor you have will suffice but we went with a Motorola video baby monitor with two-way audio. It has sufficient range to work wherever we were and lasted until we retired it when our son was three years old.

Best Travel with Baby Gear – For feeding

One thing your baby won’t let you forget is to feed them. So, in this section you’ll find my recommendations for some of the best travel gear for baby for feeding. Whether your baby is still milk fed or they have moved onto solids, you’ll find ideas for some of the best travel items for baby feeding on the go here.

Large muslins

Muslins were a godsend when our son was a baby. Burp cloths, nursing cover-ups, ideal for placing on surfaces when you’ve forgotten a blanket or towel. They have a multitude of uses. We had regular, small sized ones and I also had a few large ones. These I used as a cover for nursing but they also came in handy as a stroller shade if I forgot our Snoozeshade.

The Aden and Anais essentials swaddle blankets are lightweight muslin blankets that fit the bill. Plus they are such a pretty design. Do not head off on your travels as a family without muslins!

Portable high chair

One of the best travel baby items we were gifted when our son approached 1 years old was a portable high chair. It meant that if we were dining anywhere as a family that either did not have any baby high chairs, or all the available ones were taken, we could still sit and enjoy a family meal.

We had one of the Totseat portable travel high chairs that is made to fit almost any seat or chair. It was also washable too which is always handy with a weaning baby and is suitable from the age of 6 months old when your baby can hold their own head AND sit independently.

However, even better was the portable high chair our friends had for their baby 12 months later. The Chicco Quickseat hooks onto dining tables and comes with a tray table for babies and toddlers.

It folds up quite flat for easy transport and storage and was a nifty looking baby travel gadget. Part of me wished we’d known about that when our son was a baby.

Portable UV sterilizer

If your baby uses a pacifier or dummy, then having a portable UV sterilizer to clean it after they drop it is a must when traveling. And the Munchkin Portable UV Sterilizer is the idea travel item for the job.

With 99.99% efficacy against bacteria and viruses, it is battery or USB powered and can be used for pacifiers, mouth guards, teething toys, bottle nipples, anything that will fit comfortably inside.

Thermos flask

One baby travel item that made traveling with our son easier was our Tommee Tippee thermos flask . It made preparing our son’s bottles on a plane or ferry very easy.

For flying, we passed security with it empty. Then, once we were in the departures area of the terminal, we got boiling water from one of the food retailers and the thermos flask kept the water hot until we needed to use it. We topped it up with bottled cold water to ensure our son’s bottle was the right temperature. For long-haul the cabin crew were more than happy to give us some boiling water in the flask so we could make our son’s feeds when necessary.

It was also very handy on road trips too if we were going to need to stop to feed our son. Any thermos flask will do but I can highly recommend the Tommee Tippee one from personal experience.

Baby food jar thermos

If your baby is anything like my son was and does not like cold food and you are going to be traveling when they are due a meal, then invest in a baby food jar that keeps food hot.

The Thermos Foogo insulated stainless steel food jar is perfect for keeping your baby’s food warm. It keeps food hot for up to 5 hours and food cold for up to 7.

Silicone baby bibs

Instead of packing a million cloth bibs, or worse, disposable ones which add to landfill, why not pack some easy-to-clean, waterproof silicone bibs.

The best ones are those with a catcher at the end to try and keep restaurant floors as clean as possible. These soft, silicone washable bibs are the perfect baby travel item to have in your bag. Ideal for babies over 6 months old.

Snacks and drinks are a must when traveling with kids of any age, and babies have simple needs when it comes to these. You will need a sippy cup for them to drink water from and we found the best ones for our son were those with handles. Any other kind were just too difficult for him to handle.

And these Nuby sippy cups were the best we found for preventing spills when he let the cup drop too. They can be used from 4 months to encourage self-feeding and drinking.

As your baby gets a bit older and is looking to feed themselves more, spill-free snack pots will ensure minimal spills and mess, especially important for plane or car journeys.

Munchkin snack catchers are the pots we used with our son for snacks such as strawberries, baby rice cakes and even smaller things like rice krispies! Even if your baby holds it up-side-down, the snacks stay inside.

Best Baby Travel Accessories – Other Essentials

There are lots more items that need to be considered and in this section I list out the other best baby travel accessories and essentials you may need for journeys, both at home and abroad.

You cannot travel anywhere with a baby without one essential baby travel item, your diaper bag. Whether you use cloth or disposable diapers, the fact is, babies go through a lot of them and you don’t ever want to get caught short.

So, you need a bag to carry it all in. Your choice of diaper bag is a personal one but I recommend going for a diaper backpack .

A diaper backpack can leave both your two hands free to carry your baby from their stroller to the plane and will mean that the bag isn’t constantly slipping off your shoulder. Make sure it has plenty of compartments for everything you will need for a road trip or flight.

Diaper changing pad

An item that often comes with diaper bags these days are changing pads. However, if your bag of choice doesn’t come with one to place your baby on, invest in one to ensure you always have somewhere clean to place your baby to change their diaper.

This portable diaper changing pad is an ideal one as it comes with a detachable pad, insert for wipes, mesh compartment and can even hold things like your phone and car keys. It can be popped onto your stroller handle or off one of the bars and is padded and wipe able.

This is also ideal for taking into airplane toilets where space is at a premium. Just load it with diapers and wipes before going in and use it to keep your baby out of direct contact of the changing table.

Inflatable Baby Bath

When putting together your baby travel list, an inflatable baby bath is something to consider. If you are traveling with a baby that cannot sit independently, you are going to need some sort of aid for bathing them in hotel rooms or in your vacation accommodation. Enter an inflatable baby bath.

This inflatable baby bath (as shown) comes with a middle column to help prevent your baby from slipping down into the bath. It weighs just 2.24lbs or just over 1kg, has an anti-slip base and is perfect for traveling, especially road trips or when visiting friends.

If your baby is not sitting independently then a baby bather like the Boon Puff Inflatable Baby Bather is another option for you.

Thermometer

One thing we try to never forget when travelling with our son is a thermometer. You just never know when you might need it. Our thermometer of choice is a Braun No-touch Forehead Thermometer .

This thermometer doesn’t need to touch a baby’s forehead, meaning you can monitor their temperature, even while they sleep. While it does have audio, you can turn it off, making it silent at the same time. Perfect.  When making your baby travel essentials list, make sure one of these is on it.

Wet and dry bag

Your baby travel stuff should also include a wet and dry bag . These can be super handy if you are using cloth diapers to store them until you reach your destination.

They can also be used for wet clothes after leaks or spit-ups. And you can even use them for your swimming costumes if you decide to start swimming lessons with your baby at home!

You should never leave home without a basic first aid kit that includes baby pain relief, teething relief and nappy cream. These are essential items to have with you whether you are traveling out for the day or heading off to a far-flung destination for a family vacation.

Basic pain relief would include infant paracetamol (Calpol in the UK). Ensure that the pain relief is suitable for your baby’s age and seek medical advice beforehand if necessary. Teething relief to include in your first aid kit is Camilia Teething Relief . And for diaper rash and healing, add a tube or two of Aquaphor to your baby first aid kit.

Other teething relief you may want to consider putting on your list of baby travel gear are teething toys. This Haakaa Teether is suitable from 3 months and can be sterilized even in steam sterilizers.

This completes my list of the best baby travel gear. Many of these items we used when our son was a baby and some came onto the market or were used by friends after our son was a baby and were items we would have purchased had they been available or had known about them at the time.

What not to add to your baby travel list

Here are a few items I would suggest NOT packing when traveling with a baby (unless in your own car)

• Bulky jogging strollers – they are just too cumbersome for travel and are often impossible to get into the trunk of small rental cars.
• Your expensive, bulky car seat. Unless you really need your own car seat and have a bag protector for it, leave it at home and rent one if you really need to.
• Heavy, bulky toys. Leave them at home. Your baby won’t miss them and you won’t miss the extra luggage space and weight!
• Cloth diapers. I touched on this already and unless you have access to laundry, just go with disposable ones for the duration of your trip. It will just make things that little bit easier. And while we are on the subject, don’t take too many diapers unless you are traveling somewhere that is unlikely to have disposables readily available. Bring enough for the first day or two and stock up once you land.
• Don’t pack too many blankets, especially if you are bringing your baby’s sleep bag. One lightweight blanket and some large muslins are enough.
• Don’t bring full-sized toiletries. Save space by bringing travel toiletries and stock up once you land. It will free up weight. This is one of my top tips for packing for a family vacation . And only bring enough baby wipes too. You can buy them when you land unless you know they are not readily available like disposable diapers.
• Heavy baby books. You just don’t need the added weight.

Top tip: Make sure you bring enough baby clothes, especially if you don’t have access to laundry. No-one wants to spend half their time handwashing stained baby clothes!

Yes. There was a time that babies could be added to their parent’s passports but now, for most countries, your baby requires one of their own. You should organise this as soon as you can and well before any travel you have planned with your baby.

Most airlines allow a baby or child under the age of two to travel “free” on their parents lap. You may need to pay an admin fee. But, you will need to keep them on your lap for the entire flight. You could purchase a seat for your baby but you may need to call the airline if this option is not available through online booking. Be aware, there will be a fee for the seat.

Personally, we found hotels hard with our son. Kettles were not always readily available to make his bottle when we switched to bottle feeding, nor was there any easy way to heat his foods or sterilize his bottles. Private accommodation with kitchen facilities are much easier. Hotels do not always provide a bath in rooms too.

You can bring as much as you need for the flight and these are exempt from the liquids restrictions. Some airports may ask you to taste it but most have move to non-invasive testing at the security desks. You need to remember to declare it at the desk when you approach it so have it ready. Remember that, even for babies, water is not allowed over 100ml so wait until you are through and buy bottled water to put into your baby’s sippy cup.

This depends on the age of your baby. Infants can be held on your lap but older babies will need to be secured with an extra seatbelt which the airline will provide. If you purchase a seat for your baby, you could use an airline-approved car seat.

If you are lucky you can get a seat where the bassinet is located. These are limited so either pre-book it or get to the check-in desk early and request one. Use any of your baby’s favourite items for sleep to help them drop off. Bring their baby sleep bag, white noise machine, pacifier if they use it, comforter and try block out light with a cover or dark muslin.

There are two options. Either feed your baby on take-off or landing, or use a pacifier. Our son never had any problems with his ears as we gave him his pacifier. Even when we got rid of it, we made him drink some water at these times. Even now that he’s older, we still make him drink to help equalize his ears.

This list is comprehensive and contains the best baby travel gear we personally used, or travel gear for babies that we have since learned about and wish we had known about or wish was available when our son was a baby. You don’t have to purchase everything on this list, but the majority will make traveling with a baby easier and smoother.

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Childproof your next trip with these must-have baby travel gear items

Editor's Note

As a new parent, traveling with your baby can seem like an insurmountable goal. You want your baby to feel safe and comfortable, but you can't pack up your entire nursery to do so. Here at TPG, we've spent a lot of time traveling with children, and we've tested a lot of baby gear along the way.

Related: 43 real-world family travel tips that actually work

We know every trip — and every baby — is different, but these items can keep you and your baby happy whether you travel by plane , train or automobile and, of course, once you reach your destination.

GB Pockit Travel Stroller

Weighing in at only 10.4 pounds and folding up small enough to fit in most airplane overhead compartments, the GB Pockit was named the world's most compact stroller by Guinness World Records. This travel-friendly stroller folds up in two easy steps, but don't let its small size fool you. It still has a weight capacity of up to 55 pounds and can handle a bumpy sidewalk as well as it handles the moving walkway at the airport.

Related: These are the 10 best travel strollers for your next trip

The GB Pockit doesn't come with all the accessories other strollers come with (which is why it folds up so easily). However, it has a mini sun canopy, an adjustable harness and a small storage space underneath the seat. It is also designed for babies 6 months and older, so parents of newborns will have to wait a bit to use this small but mighty stroller.

To buy : GB Pockit Travel Stroller on Amazon , $193.59

PAK Reve Wilder Bundle

Even before testing Pak Reve's line of travel bags, we knew they would stand up to anything parents could throw at them because they were designed by globe-trotting travel writer Jordi Lippe-McGraw . You can buy the full-size backpack, mini backpack, waterproof wristlet and insulated lunchbox separately. However, they all attach together to create one fully functional travel system, so we recommend purchasing the full bundle.

Dubbed The Wilder Bundle, this travel system connects and disconnects with ease. Having the full system on the plane or on a long road trip ensures you have every bottle, snack, change of clothes and toy close by. You can use just the pieces you need when you arrive at your destination. You may only want the mini backpack for a quick excursion, or you can bring along the waterproof wristlet, so you have somewhere to store dirty clothes in case of an accident.

The full-size backpack has tons of organizational features, including a front pocket that converts into a jacket sleeve, theft-proof pockets, a laptop sleeve, a keychain ring and exterior water bottle pockets.

To buy : PAK Reve The Wilder Bundle , $335

Snoozeshade Pack n' Play Cover

The Snoozeshade Pack n' Play Cover is life-changing when you have to share a hotel room with your baby. You no longer have to hide the crib away in a bathroom or closet. Now, you can give your baby the environment necessary to get some rest while keeping them close by.

Related: 21 best all-inclusive resorts for families

While your baby is snoozing away in their dark and cozy crib with a breathable mesh shade, you can (quietly) enjoy your vacation. This shade is machine-washable and comes with a convenient carry case.

To buy : Snoozeshade Pack n' Play Cover on Amazon , $59.99

Tula Free-to-Grow Baby Carrier

There are dozens of baby carriers out there, and which one works best for you will largely be based on personal preference, but we have found the Tula Free-to-Grow Baby Carrier to be a great go-to carrier.

This carrier can be used for babies from 7 to 45 pounds, making it a great choice for newborns and toddlers alike. The front mesh panel keeps you and your baby cool, and the adjustable straps and waistband ensure a comfortable fit for you and a secure fit for your baby. The padded shoulder straps provide additional comfort, and you can use the carrier in front-carry and back-carry positions.

To buy : Tula Free-to-Grow Baby Carrier on Amazon , $179

Enovoe Portable Diaper Changing Pad

The Enovoe portable changing pad is ideal for changing your baby on the go anywhere. It's not too bulky, which means you can easily slip it into a carry-on bag. It also has storage space for a few diapers, a small pack of wipes, an extra pair of pants and a onesie for good measure.

Even though it's fairly slim, the head area has additional padding for the baby's comfort, and there's an attachable strap to hang it from the stroller when you're on the move. The changer comes in handy when you're at the beach, on a long road trip, at the park or pretty much anywhere. As an added bonus, it's unisex and cute.

To buy : The Enovoe portable pad is available on Amazon for $19.99.

Nuby Lightweight High Chair Booster Seat

Finding vacation rentals with high chairs is ideal, but it's not always possible. This Nuby travel booster seat attaches to chairs and is fairly portable — and it can be tucked into a checked suitcase . The chair is soft yet sturdy, so little ones don't mind eating in it.

The straps are durable and fairly secure. Just remember, the chair is only for short periods while your baby is eating, and you should never leave your baby unattended in this seat.

To buy: The Nuby Easy Go Booster Seat is available on Amazon for $22.99.

Bumpkins Silicone Grip Dishes

Bumpkins silicone plates grip whatever surface you set them on so your baby can't throw the plate on the floor. They are ideal to tuck into your bag and bring to a restaurant, hotel or vacation rental when traveling. Easy to clean, dishwasher safe, BPA-free and oven safe, they come in a variety of colors and patterns to suit your taste.

To buy: Bumpkins silicone plates are available on Amazon, with prices as low as $10.99.

Bottom line

It can be hard to decide what to pack and what to leave at home when traveling with your baby. It can also be overwhelming to figure out which travel stroller to buy, which baby carrier to get and all the other essential items you will need on your journey.

While these choices are largely personal and depend greatly on your family and the nature of your trip, these products are favorites among the frequent-traveling families at TPG.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• Where to go in 2024: The 16 best places to travel
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

7 Best Baby Travel Bags for Your Next Trip

E mbarking on a journey with your little one? Then you’re well aware of the importance of having the right gear by your side. The best baby travel bag isn’t just about fashion—it’s about function, and ensuring you can smoothly navigate through airports, parks, and city streets without constantly rummaging for baby essentials.

We’re revealing the important factors in the world of baby travel bags, offering advice, insights, and of course, our top picks. If you prefer a backpack-style diaper bag or a stylish vegan leather tote, we have options to suit your needs. Plus, we’ve packed in some invaluable tips on ensuring your chosen bag serves you in the best way possible.

• Choosing Baby Travel Bag
• Changing Backpack

Why Every Parent Needs the Best Baby Travel Bag

The days of oversized totes with no compartments are gone. Modern parents crave ease of use and organization on-the-go. Because, let’s face it, nothing tests your patience more than desperately searching for a baby wipe during a diaper emergency. The right diaper bag is more than just a storage space, it’s an extension of your parenting toolkit, equipped with insulated pockets, bottle holders, and easy access compartments that simplify the chaos of traveling with a baby.

But beyond the practical side, there’s the pure joy of flaunting a stylish, high-quality diaper bag that complements your personal style. So, are you ready to find your perfect diaper bag companion? Get ready for our list of the best travel diaper bags!

What Makes a Great Baby Travel Bag?

Every parent has their own list of most important things, but when it comes to choosing the best baby travel bag, some universal factors ring true for all. Here’s what separates the good from the great:

Space & Organization

Gone are the days when parents settled for any large bag. Now, ample space is a must, but so is organization. Lots of pockets, both exterior and interior, help segregate baby’s needs from your personal items. 

Extra pockets each have a purpose to hold: baby wipes, bottle pockets, burp cloths, a change of clothes, cell phone, and even insulated pockets for keeping milk or water at the right temperature. It’s all about making sure every essential has its own spot.

See Also: Best Travel Baby Bed

Durability & Material

The best diaper bags aren’t just a one-trip wonder. They stand up to countless outings, including airplane travel, spills, dirty diaper explosions, and more. Opting for bags with waterproof material or easy-to-clean material can be a lifesaver. If you’re into sustainable options, vegan leather is both stylish and cruelty-free.

Accessibility & Ease of Use

Time is of the essence when you’re out with your baby. Bags that offer easier access with well-placed zippers or magnetic closures can be a great choice. Features like stroller straps or a trolley sleeve add to the ease of use, especially during travels.

Comfort & Style

Comfort shouldn’t be overlooked. Shoulder straps that evenly distribute weight, or backpack straps for hands-free convenience, can make all the difference. And of course, aesthetics matter too. If you love vibrant different colors, a unisex design, or the classic elegance of vegan leather, there’s a bag out there to match your vibe.

Versatility & Extras

Some bags are more than just diaper bags. They double up as a work bag, have padded laptop pockets, or even an included changing pad. These multi-functional features enhance the bag’s versatility, giving you more bang for your buck.

In the realm of baby travel bags, the options are vast. But, remembering these essential factors will guide you to a purchase that’s both practical and chic. After all, a great baby travel bag isn’t just about carrying baby stuff—it’s about enhancing your entire parenting journey.

Top 7 Baby Travel Bags

1. bugaboo changing backpack.

• Durable and high-quality design
• Spacious main compartment for baby essentials
• Easy-to-clean material
• Includes a foldable changing mat
• Premium price point
• Limited in color options (specifically in Forest Green)

Bugaboo Changing Backpack

Stepping out with your toddler? Look no further than the  Bugaboo Changing Backpack . Boasting a spacious main compartment, this forest green gem also comes with a foldable changing mat. However, its premium design does come with a matching price point.

2. Baby Brezza Dante Changing Station Diaper Backpack

• Drop-down built-in changing pad
• Excellent organization with 13 different pockets
• Plenty of room for storage
• Antimicrobial pocket for keeping pacifiers clean and hygienic
• Detachable changing station
• One-handed access challenge due to its large size and multiple compartments

Baby Brezza Dante Changing Station Diaper Backpack

The  Baby Brezza changing station backpack  is a versatile diaper bag and changing station in one. It provides a convenient and clean space for diaper changes on the go. The bag is well-organized with 17 functional pockets, including insulated bottle pockets and a pacifier pocket. It offers easy access to baby essentials and has a smart organizer compartment for personal items. You can carry it comfortably with padded shoulder straps or attach it to a stroller. The stylish unisex design and durable construction make it ideal for families on the move. This bag is the ultimate solution for organized and stress-free travels with your baby.

3. Hap Tim Large Diaper Bag

• Large Capacity
• Water-Repellent Fabric
• Multiple Pockets
• Removable Changing Pad
• Stroller Straps
• Insulated Pockets
• Limited Color Options

Hap Tim Large Diaper Bag

The  Hap Tim Large Diaper Bag  is a stylish and hands-free backpack-style diaper bag designed for parents on the go. Made from high-quality nylon with a PU back coating, it offers durability and water resistance. With a large capacity and 17 pockets, it provides excellent organization options for baby essentials and personal items. The bag includes convenient features like stroller straps, insulated pockets, and a removable changing pad. It’s a versatile and comfortable solution for parents and comes with a satisfaction guarantee. The bag is perfect for travel, day trips, and carrying essentials for both parents and babies

4. Béis Ultimate Diaper Backpack in Black

• Comes with an insulated bottle pocket
• Features stroller straps for ease of use
• Designed with a trolley sleeve for travel convenience.
• High-quality build and stylish
• Black color might show dirt and wear over time
• The zippers might be tricky for one-handed operation

Béis Ultimate Diaper Backpack in Black

Travel gets a touch of class with the  Béis Ultimate Diaper Backpack . Its insulated bottle pocket and trolley sleeve are game-changers. But, be wary of the black shade, as it may show signs of wear.

5. JuJuBe Be Right Back Travel Backpack

• Bright neon color ensures it stands out
• Plenty of pockets for organization
• Comes with a change of clothes compartment
• Easy access front pocket for essential items
• The neon color might not be to everyone’s taste
• Some might find it too flashy for everyday use

JuJuBe Be Right Back Travel Backpack

Stand out with the bright  JuJuBe Be Right Back backpack . Apart from its catchy neon hue, it scores with pockets aplenty. However, it might be a tad too flashy for some.

6. 2-in-1 Provisions Breast Pump & Diaper Bag Backpack

• Multi-functional design: works as a breast pump and diaper bag
• Elegant grey matte leatherette finish
• Insulated pockets to keep breast milk at the right temperature
• Padded laptop pocket for the working mom
• Might be bulky for some due to its dual-purpose design
• Premium pricing

2-in-1 Provisions Breast Pump & Diaper Bag Backpack

Moms on the move will adore the  2-in-1 Provisions Bag . Doubling up as a breast pump and diaper bag, it exudes a sophisticated matte finish. However, its dual-purpose may feel a tad bulky for some.

7. The Honest Company Vegan Leather City Backpack

• Fashionable and Functional
• Ample Storage
• Changing Pad
• Vegan Leather
• Unisex Styling
• Inaccessible Key Pocket

The Honest Company Vegan Leather City Backpack

The  Honest Company Vegan Leather City Backpack  is a stylish and versatile bag designed for both parents and individuals. Made from sturdy vegan leather, it offers fashion-meets-function with ample storage, including seven exterior zippered pockets and three interior pockets. The bag comes with a changing pad and is free from harmful chemicals. It’s unisex in style and comfortable to wear, making it suitable for various needs, from diapering essentials to overnight trips. The modern mulberry hue adds a touch of color and style to any outfit, and the wipeable exterior enhances its professional look.

When it comes to baby travel bag, picking the perfect bag is paramount. And while each of our handpicked selections boasts its unique perks, it’s essential to weigh these against your specific needs. 

Tips to Maximize Your Baby Travel Bag’s Efficiency

So, you’ve got the best baby travel bag. Now, how do you ensure you’re getting the most out of it? It’s not just about packing, but also about efficient use and maintenance. Here are some golden tips to keep you and your bag at peak efficiency.

Prioritize Essentials

While it’s tempting to pack every little thing, it’s wiser to focus on baby essentials. This means diapers, wipes, extra clothes, and feeding necessities. Remember, overstuffing can wear out even the best diaper bags quicker.

Read:  Best Travel Baby Bathtub

Utilize Every Pocket

Your bag has plenty of pockets for a reason. Use them! Designate specific pockets for specific items. Perhaps side pockets for water bottles and insulated pockets for warm baby food. When everything has a place, you’ll save time and avoid the hassle of rummaging.

Keep It Clean

With spills and messes inevitable, choose a bag with waterproof or easy-to-clean material. Regular cleaning prevents stubborn stains and maintains the bag’s appearance. Quick tip: always have wet wipes and a wet bag handy for immediate clean-ups!

Rotate Items

Depending on the trip, the contents of your bag might change. Short outings might not require as much stuff as longer trips. Regularly check and rotate items to match your needs, ensuring you’re not carrying unnecessary weight.

Maintenance is Key

To increase the longevity of your bag, care for it. This means occasionally checking zippers, cleaning stroller clips, and ensuring shoulder straps remain robust. A well-maintained bag not only lasts longer but also ensures the safety of your baby’s items.

Personalize for Convenience

Add a personal touch to enhance efficiency. This could be color-coded interior pockets or labels, making it easier to locate items. Additionally, using smaller items like pouches or wet bags can further organize and segregate contents.

Getting the most out of your baby travel bag isn’t rocket science. It’s about smart choices, regular maintenance, and a sprinkle of personal touch. With these tips, you’ll be set to make any outing smooth and efficient.

Further Reading: Best Travel Baby Bottle Warmers

Our Process for Picking the Best Diaper Bag Backpacks

Curious about how we determined our list of the best baby travel bag picks? It wasn’t just a random choice. We took a meticulous approach to ensure only top-quality recommendations for our readers.

Capacity and Organization

A great diaper bag is spacious but not bulky. We checked for ample space and the number of pockets, ensuring there’s room for all baby essentials. Bags with insulated pockets, exterior pockets, and designated areas for baby wipes and change of clothes earned extra points.

Durability and Material

We closely analyzed materials used and warranty promises. If it made of vegan leather or waterproof material, we researched if the bag can withstand regular use. Durability isn’t just about longevity, it’s also about protecting your baby gear.

Comfort and Design

An excellent backpack style travel bag should be comfortable, especially when packed. We looked for shoulder straps, backpack straps, and a top handle for comfort and ease of use. We also looked for a gender-neutral design and a variety of different colors to suit everyone’s taste.

Versatility

The best diaper bag backpack should be versatile. From having stroller straps to converting into a shoulder bag, versatility was key in our search for the best baby travel bag. We also considered how easy it was to access small items and if the bag had a spacious central compartment.

User Feedback and Reviews

We didn’t just rely on our own preferences. We read countless review from new parents and scoured forums. Real-life experiences from various users provided a broader understanding of each bag’s pros and cons.

Through this multi-person research effort, we’re confident in presenting our best baby travel bag choices. We aim for nothing less than the highest standard, ensuring you get not just a traditional diaper bag but, one of the top-rated diaper bags for travel.

Discover the Smallest Travel Bed for Toddler

Finding Your Perfect Baby Travel Companion

As we wrap up our in-depth guide into the world of the best baby travel bag, it’s essential to remember that the perfect diaper bag isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s all about finding the right fit tailored to you and your little one’s needs.

Prioritize Your Needs

If your baby won’t drink milk without a  travel bottle warmer  than of course your travel bag needs to have plenty of space for that extra item.From the best travel diaper backpack to the best messenger diaper bag, the market offers endless choices. The key? Recognizing what features resonate most with your lifestyle.

Quality is Key

Always ensure that your pick stands up to the test of time. A bag made of waterproof material with interior pockets, for instance, will not only be durable but will safeguard your baby essentials. After all, the best diaper bag backpack is an investment, not just a purchase.

Versatility and Functionality

Remember, it’s not just about aesthetics. A great diaper bag seamlessly transitions from a day out in the city to an airplane’s overhead compartment. If you’re  traveling with a stroller  you’ll want to make sure it’s the type of diaper bag that works with stroller clips.

Your Style, Your Choice

Whether you’re into vibrant different colors or more discreet tones, there’s a bag out there that speaks to your personal style. From chic tote bags to practical backpack-style diaper bags, choose what feels right for you.

In the vast ocean of baby travel bags, our mission was to guide you to the ideal shore. Now, equipped with insights and knowledge, you’re ready to find the best baby travel bag that complements your journey of parenthood. Happy travels!

Affiliate Disclaimer

It’s important for us to be transparent with our readers. Nomad Veronica is committed to providing you with valuable information and recommendations. As part of this commitment, we want to let you know that some of the links in this article are affiliate links.

What does this mean? It means that if you click on one of these links and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. These commissions help support the work we do here and enable us to continue offering you in-depth guides, product reviews, and travel tips.

Please understand that we only recommend products and services that we genuinely believe will benefit you and your family. Our recommendations are based on thorough research, user reviews, and expert insights.

Your trust is important to us, and we appreciate your support. If you have any questions or concerns about our affiliate links or recommendations, feel free to reach out. We’re here to help you make the best decisions for your family’s travels. Thank you for being a part of the Nomad Veronica community.

FAQ: Best Baby Travel Bag

What is the best baby travel bag for long trips.

The best baby travel bag for extended journeys offers ample space, multiple compartments, and easy access. Consider bags with insulated bottle pockets and stroller straps for maximum convenience.

Do I need a water-resistant baby travel bag?

A water-resistant or waterproof material is beneficial for protecting baby essentials from unexpected spills or rain. It’s especially handy if you’re often outdoors or traveling to places with unpredictable weather.

How important are insulated pockets in a diaper bag?

Insulated pockets are crucial if you need to store baby bottles, breast milk, or snacks. They help maintain the temperature, ensuring your baby’s food stays fresh and safe.

What’s the difference between backpack style and shoulder bag diaper bags?

A backpack style diaper bag is worn on the back and usually has two straps, distributing weight evenly. It’s hands-free and great for on-the-go parents. A shoulder bag is worn on one shoulder and might be more fashionable but can be less ergonomic for long durations.

How many pockets should a good baby travel bag have?

The number of pockets varies based on personal preference. However, a great diaper bag should have a mix of large compartments for clothes and diapers and smaller pockets for items like baby wipes, pacifiers, and personal items.

Are vegan leather baby bags durable for travel?

Yes, vegan leather is a durable and stylish option for baby travel bags. They are often easy-to-clean and can withstand the wear and tear of travel while looking chic.?

Can I use my baby travel bag as a regular backpack after my baby grows up?

Absolutely! Many parents opt for bags with a gender-neutral design or a unisex style that can seamlessly transition from a baby bag to a regular backpack or work bag. Look for designs with removable changing pads or adaptable interiors.

The post 7 Best Baby Travel Bags for Your Next Trip appeared first on Nomad Veronica .

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

Protect Your Trip »

The 8 best diaper bag backpacks of 2024, according to parents.

A diaper bag backpack is especially convenient for travel.

The Best Diaper Bag Backpacks

Courtesy of No Reception Club

While there are a variety of flattering yet functional diaper bag styles available – including crossbody options, totes and even fanny packs – the diaper bag backpack is arguably the most convenient. Not only can a diaper bag backpack hold all your essentials and free your hands and arms for carrying other important items (and your baby), but it works especially well for travel. The backpack style can easily attach to a stroller or fit neatly under the seat in front of you on the plane, train or wherever you need it to go.

Based on consumer reviews and family travel expert opinion, these are the best diaper bag backpacks on the market.

Best Overall: Dagne Dover Indi Diaper Backpack – Large

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓

Best for Travel: No Reception Club The Getaway Bag

Best budget: skip hop forma backpack diaper bag, best organization: babbleroo diaper bag backpack, best leather: mina baie kinney backpack.

• Best Multiuse: Petunia Pickle Bottom 2-in-1 Provisions Breast Pump & Diaper Bag Backpack
• Best Small: Dagne Dover Indi Neoprene Diaper Backpack – Small

Best for Dad: Herschel Settlement Backpack Diaper Bag 24L

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time this article was updated; they may fluctuate due to supply chain issues or other factors. All backpack dimensions are listed in order of height by width by depth.)

Courtesy of Dagne Dover

When it comes to diaper bag backpacks, the Dagne Dover Indi Diaper Backpack comes out on top for its efficiency and style. This trendy bag comes with useful extras, including a washable zipper bag (a must-have when traveling with little ones ); the brand's signature Scout Pouch, which is ideal for small essentials; stroller clips; a mini changing mat; and two leashes for securing keys and pacifiers.

Convenient for travel, this backpack attaches to carry-on luggage via a trolley sleeve on the back. Because of its versatility, you'll be able to use it for years to come. "True story: This bag is perfect even if you don't have kids," says Summer Hull, mom and director of content at The Points Guy. "It has so many pockets so things can stay organized, has fab material that is easy to clean, holds a laptop, can clip to things, and doesn't look awful."

Constructed from recycled materials, this vegan bag is available in several neutral colors, in either neoprene or air mesh material.

Price: $215 or less

Diaper bags don't get more efficient than this option by No Reception Club, introduced in 2022 as a packing solution for the seasoned traveler who is now navigating parenthood. The Getaway Bag features a built-in shelving system that can be customized to your needs as well as a variety of useful compartments, including an insulated lunch bag; a water-resistant, odor-proof compartment for soiled items; and a hidden back pocket for securing your passport and other valuables.

This style comes with detachable carabiner stroller clips, and a wide pass-through handle allows you to easily attach the bag to other luggage. Plus, it has both top and side openings so you can easily access whatever you need, wherever you are. Available in black and green, the backpack can be purchased on its own or as a bundle; the latter includes The Sidekick fanny pack and a changing pad.

Price: $235 or less

Courtesy of Skip Hop

Ann Henson , assistant managing editor of travel at U.S. News, recommends this Skip Hop diaper bag backpack. "We've used it for three years and are still impressed with the quality," she says. The quilted bag features a spacious main compartment with a variety of pockets, including one designed for a smartphone and another for the included changing mat or a tablet or laptop (up to roughly 15 inches in size).

The bag also has two exterior pockets for baby bottles or cups, adjustable padded straps, and built-in stroller straps. "I also appreciate the packing cubes that came with this bag, especially the insulated one," says Henson, noting that she also likes how easy it is to keep the bag clean. This diaper bag backpack comes in sage, mauve, gray, black and navy.

Price: $79 or less

Courtesy of BabbleRoo

While parents praise everything about this backpack, it's the level of organization they appreciate most. The BabbleRoo Diaper Bag Backpack features a seemingly endless amount of pockets, which include two main compartments, five insulated bottle pockets, a sleeve for wipes, a hidden back pocket and a detachable pacifier case. With built-in clips, the bag can also be attached to a stroller.

This bag is available in around 20 different colors and a choice of either polyester or faux leather. It has more than 25,000 reviews and a 4.8-star rating on Amazon.

Price: $59.99 or less

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Courtesy of Mina Baie

You'd hardly know this is a diaper bag. Constructed of vegan leather, this elegant backpack features five inconspicuous exterior pockets, with an insulated bottle pocket and a compartment that doubles as a luggage sleeve. Inside, the Mina Baie Kinney Backpack features 10 more pockets, including a 13-inch padded laptop sleeve. Other useful features include a key leash, D-rings for stroller hooks (vegan leather hooks are sold separately), a magnetic flap closure and a water-resistant lining. The bag is made in six neutral color styles, and a coordinating changing pad is available as an add-on.

Price: $221 or less

Best Multiuse: Petunia Pickle Bottom 2-in-1 Provisions Breast Pump & Diaper Bag Backpack

Courtesy of Petunia Pickle Bottom

"Simplicity is key when it comes to the best diaper bags for travel," says Gina Kramer, founder and director of content at Humble Boots . "My go-to is Petunia Pickle Bottom's 2-in-1 Provisions Diaper Bag Backpack for its no-frills, intentional design that keeps all my necessities within easy reach – plus, it's practical even beyond the baby stage."

This backpack features a discreet, insulated compartment for breast pump parts and a spacious central compartment, plus a padded compartment for a laptop. If or when you don't need to tote a breast pump around, you can use the lower compartment for one of the brand's cooler cubes (convenient for storing snacks and drinks), an extra change of clothing or whatever else you might need. This bag is currently available in four styles, including a Winnie the Pooh-themed Disney collaboration. (Disney parents, take note: Petunia Pickle Bottom specializes in other Disney diaper bag backpacks as well.)

Price: $189 or less

Best Small: Dagne Dover Indi Diaper Backpack – Small

As your little one grows, you might find yourself searching for a smaller diaper bag backpack that's less bulky but can still accommodate snacks, a water cup, a couple of diapers and the inevitable lot of random toys. Enter the Dagne Dover Indi (again), this time in the small size. The small version comes with all the same features as the large backpack: a washable bag, the Scout Pouch, key leashes, stroller clips, and plenty of exterior and interior pockets.

If you like this style but don't need all the extras and pockets, consider the Dakota Backpack .

Price: $165 or less

Courtesy of Herschel

For a simple yet reliable diaper bag that Dad (or Mom) will feel comfortable wearing to the doctor's office, playground and beyond, the Herschel Settlement Backpack is a top choice. This minimalistic diaper bag backpack comes with an easy-to-clean changing mat. It features a padded interior sleeve for a laptop up to 14 inches, an expandable water bottle compartment, an exterior zippered front pocket for small essentials and padded shoulder straps.

Made from recycled fabrics, the bag is available in black, gray and other neutral colors.

Price: $120 or less

Frequently Asked Questions

In most cases, a diaper bag can be carried on to the plane in addition to a personal item and a carry-on bag. Be sure to check your airline's policies before flying.

While any backpack can double as a diaper bag, diaper bag backpacks offer baby-specific features that standard backpacks don't. These include insulated pockets for bottles, a sleeve for wipes and stroller clips.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross , senior content and SEO strategist for travel at U.S. News, purchased the Mina Baie Kinney Backpack and Herschel Settlement Backpack a few years ago while in search of the "anti-diaper bag." Both diaper bags have proven useful even beyond the baby stage. For her other recommendations, she talked to travel industry experts who are also parents.

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Product Reviews

Best travel diaper bag in 2024: parent selected.

If you ask any seasoned mom what item is most vital to everyone’s survival when traveling with children, she will more than likely immediately say, “My diaper bag!” (or nappy bag, depending on where you are from!) .

The diaper bag is the glue that holds everything together regarding organized travel with young children. It’s also a kind of statement piece of parenthood, representing the essence of our individuality.

It houses the spare wipes, nappies, juice bottles, breast milk, emergency snacks , passports, and other necessary documents, as well as those backup wipes just in case you don’t have enough in the first go-around. Travel diaper bags are specially designed with a family’s needs in mind, with extra pockets and insulated areas for bottles and other food items.

Choosing a suitable travel diaper bag is a must if you plan to go anywhere beyond the front door with your children. It’s essential when taking extended trips, whether on the road or in the air. Everyone’s style is different; some may prefer a tote while others a backpack-style diaper bag , but there are several qualities you’ll want to consider before purchasing the best diaper bag that will suit you and your family.

This post is part of our Tried & Tested baby travel products series

Our Globetrotters is an Amazon Associate. We earn a commission from qualifying purchases.

Summary of The Best Travel Diaper Bags of 2023

We summarise all of the best travel diaper bag brands here, but keep reading below to see the key features we love and to help you decide which type of diaper bag might be best for your family’s travel needs.

Cost $ – under $40 USD: Cost $$ – $40 to $80 USD; Cost $$$ – over $80USD

Essential Travel Diaper Bag Features

Best backpack diaper bags for travel, best tote travel diaper bags, best convertible travel diaper bags, best diaper bags for dads.

I speak from extensive experience when I say that your traveling diaper bag’s most important feature must be comfort. Nothing is more draining than lugging around an uncomfortable and overloaded bag at the airport during a five-hour layover.

I strongly recommend choosing a diaper bag with padded straps if you carry it for any length of time beyond about 10 minutes. It’s amazing how quickly they will begin to dig into your shoulders. If you can find one that evenly distributes weight across your body while carrying, it will benefit you in the long run. Conversely, investing in a style that clips securely to your stroller will also do wonders for your posture.

While it may be tempting to select the largest diaper bag on the market to pack everything you might need, from a change of clothes to cloth diapers, that mentality might backfire on you while trying to check your bag at the gate.

You’ll want something that can be stored easily underneath an airplane seat in case you need it mid-flight or fit into the overhead bin above you. Carry-on size and weight is key when flying and isn’t a bad idea for other modes of travel as well.

Also, think about the practicalities of carrying a diaper bag and a child. As you might know, one of our top tips for navigating around an airport is to use a baby or toddler carrier rather than a stroller, so think about how you will then carry your bag and baby together; enough space for the essentials, but don’t overpack.

Material and Durability

Pause for a moment and think about the potential contents of your diaper bag while travelling and how often it will probably be jostled, dropped, and accidentally stepped on. In addition to those hazards, someone’s sippy cup will more than likely be upended inside of it at some point.

Let’s discuss the durability and, more importantly, washability of your next travel diaper bag. Here are a few, shall we say, essential qualities you’ll want your perfect diaper bag to have:

• Tear-resistant
• Machine-washable OR easy wipe
• Stain-Resistant
• Moisture Resistant or Waterproof

Your diaper bag will be your steady companion on several long and potentially grimy adventures, and you’ll want to keep it as clean and sanitary as possible.

Additional Accessories

In addition to the diaper bag itself, you’ll want to consider what additional accessories you might desire to have. What features or add-ons are important to you? Here are some common extras that many travel diaper bags have included in their purchase:

• Stroller strap attachment
• Built-in changing pad
• A “mom” section for personal items
• Insulated pockets for bottles
• Multiple sections vs. large open area
• External pockets for easy access

As a mom who has traveled as much as I have, I liked having a travel diaper bag with multiple sections. It just kept everything neater and organized as opposed to feeling like everyone’s items were floating around in one big open abyss!

Given that everyone has their distinct preference when choosing the right diaper bag, I’ve rounded up some of my favorites in a range of styles and price points to suit almost every fashion taste and budget. I’ve even included a few choices for Dads as well!

Our Favorite Travel Diaper Bag: Bag Nation Diaper Bag Backpack

This sleek, multi-functional travel diaper backpack may not be the fanciest contender on the market, but it’s a shoo-in for functionality and durability. Perfect for moms and dads alike, this is the only travel diaper bag you’ll ever need for any journey you undertake – in fact, we’ll bet you find it great for everyday use, too!

Features We Love:

• Water-resistant twill polyester material
• Upgraded padding for shoulder and back straps
• Built-in stroller straps
• 14 open pockets with changing pad and sundry bag included
• Gender-neutral style and colour
• Lifetime warranty
• Dimensions 17 x 14 x 7.5 inches

A diaper backpack is our favourite style for travel. It leaves your hands free and is super practical for moving about in busy places with plenty of easy-to-reach pockets. With quite practical, neutral designs, you can keep using a diaper backpack well after your diaper years are finished!

Best Backpack Diaper Bag: Skip Hop Diaper Bag Backpack

This is the best travel diaper backpack for the family who likes extra space and wants easy access to all their most important items. Its unisex design is a little bland but oh-so-practical

• The polyester fabric easily wipes clean
• Machine washable removable changing pad
• Insulated cube can hold two bottles
• Easy grab-top handle
• Multi-function changing pad pocket also includes a laptop sleeve (up to 15” devices)
• Dimensions 16 x 8 x 14 inches

Runner Up: Cfun Landuo Mummy Diaper Bag

Another strong contender as one of the best diaper bags for travel, the Mummy Diaper Bag with adjustable straps and several separate pockets will help you keep your important things in order.

Features We Love

• Modern colour combinations and design
• Water-resistant, wipe-clean fabric
• Spacious main compartment with additional pockets
• Bottle holder in insulated side pockets
• Dimensions 12.99 x 5.91 x 15.35 inches

Great For the Working Mom: RUVALINO Diaper Bag Backpack

Another sleek design available in a good variety of color options, this is the perfect diaper bag for a multi-tasking mama. This backpack-style diaper bag includes insulated exterior pockets as well as room for your travel documents and electronics.

• Constructed of durable, waterproof fabric
• Two large dual-zipper extra-wide compartments
• 16 pockets, including a padded laptop pocket and cell phone pocket
• Ergonomic design with padded shoulder straps
• Dimensions 11.81 x 7.87 x 16.54 inches

Also Consider: HaloVa Multifunction Diaper Backpack

• Multiple designs and colours to suit any style preference
• Anti-theft pocket to keep cell phones, credit cards and other valuables safe
• Unique L-shaped wide opening to easily access the bottom of the main compartment
• High-density, waterproof Oxford fabric
• Comes in a compact 15L and a 25L with enough room for all your baby stuff!
• Dimension 16 x 2 x 12 inches

Best Tote Diaper Bag: Itzy Ritzy Diaper Tote

• Eye-catching prints with a wide variety of different colors
• Constructed of vegan leather
• 25 pockets-18 internal and 7 external
• Converts from tote to messenger bag
• Colour-coordinated stroller clips included
• Dimensions 18 x 7 x 13.5 inches

Runner Up Best Tote Diaper Bag: Eddie Bauer Sport Tote

• Fashionable and neutral grey heather fabric
• Roomy main compartment
• Several interior pockets for essentials
• Extended-length carrying handles
• Dimensions ‎8″ x 14″ x 17″

Also Consider: JJ Cole Caprice Tote

• Available in several stylish designs
• Multiple carrying options for ease and comfort
• Removable padded shoulder strap and wipeable changing pad
• 11 pockets with insulated spaces for bottles, food pouches, etc.
• Dimensions ‎14.8 x 8.1 x 15.6 inches

Also Consider: SoHo Collection Grand Central Station

• Multilayer fabric is waterproof and stain-resistant
• 7-piece set allows you to customize accessories based on trip requirements
• Can go in the washing machine
• Multiple specially designed compartments to fit every parenting need
• Dimensions 17.6 x 13.6 x 2.2 inches

If you are uncertain whether to go with a backpack or a messenger-style shoulder bag, then a convertible model could be just for you. These designs have plenty of adaptability for different situations, though do be mindful that added features can add a little extra weight to the bag itself.

Our Favorite Convertible Diaper Bag: JuJuBe Multifunctional Convertible Diaper Bag

A good choice for those seeking a more traditional diaper bag that can convert to a carry backpack for when you’re traveling and need your hands free. The wide opening helps you fit a lot of stuff, from diaper changes to your water bottle, in the open side pockets.

• Sophisticated, elegant design
• Bottle pockets insulated with Thinsulate by 3M
• Specially designed front pocket just for Mum
• Memory foam changing pad and shoulder strap
• Dimensions 6.5 x 14 x 12 inches

Also Consider: ALLCAMP Convertible Diaper Backpack

Another cute convertible diaper bag option that can be worn in different ways over the shoulder or as a diaper backpack. The large zip opening and main compartment are real bonuses when you have a lot to carry, but it’s still the right size to fit with you on an airplane.

• Waterproof animal print is a statement-making piece
• Machine washable, high-quality fabric with metal hardware
• Roomy interior houses several thoughtfully designed pockets
• Attaches easily to stroller
• Dimensions 14.5 x 8.5 x 13 inches

Whilst other than the most florally of prints these days can be considered a unisex baby diaper bag, some popular diaper bags are that little more masculine for the fellas (and come with loads of added features that us moms adore too!)

Top Diaper Bag For Dad: Tactical Baby Gear (TBG) Men’s Tactical Diaper Bag

Topping our list of the best travel diaper bags for dads, the TBG diaper bag has a large main compartment and included changing pad. This is a great option for hiking with a baby

• Rugged, durable materials use MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) webbing
• Removable padded changing pad
• Full-open zipper front has heavy-duty YKK zippers
• Redesigned, contoured, heavy-duty straps
• Dimensions 20 x 11 x 8 inches

This is the Swiss army knife of dad diaper bags! The interior storage space is vast, so it best suits those tall backs who like to fit all their gear in one spot.

Runner Up: Eddie Bauer Traverse Backpack

For your guy who likes quick access to everything he needs and multiple zip pockets to stay organised, this might be the right diaper bag for you.

• Rugged, functional design
• Spacious interior compartments with 11 pockets, including 2 insulated bottle pockets
• Removable, push-button baby wipes case and changing pad
• Built-in stroller loops and padded back and shoulder straps
• Dimensions 12 x 6.5 x 16.5 inches

Also Consider: Columbia Summit Rush Backpack Diaper Bag

Backpack-style diaper bags are perfect for rugged use; these strong and functional diaper bags can handle a heavy load with good weight distribution.

• Sporty style and variety of colors
• Durable polyester fabric with breathable mesh panels
• Ultra Safe wipe the clean floor and changing mat
• Changing pad pockets protected by Microban
• Dimensions 13.5 x 7 x 19.25 inches

Another Great Choice For Dads: Qwreoia Diaper Bag Backpack with USB Charging Port

At an affordable price point, this makes a great diaper bag for dad days out (with bonus points for how much stuff this functional diaper bag for dad can carry!)

• Tear-resistant, waterproof Oxford fabric
• Built-in USB charging port and anti-theft pocket
• 14 multi-purpose zip pockets, including insulated bottle pouch
• Dimensions 17.72 x 11.02 x 1.57 inches

So as you can see, there is a huge range of diaper bags out there to suit your individual style preferences and unique needs, from a quick jaunt to the market to globetrotting across continents.

The best travel diaper bag for you is just a few clicks away, and you and your family will be on your way to a well-prepped adventure of your own making.

(Pssst – we’ve loved our diaper backpack so much, we still use it even after passing our third round of potty training ! Invest well at the start, and you have the perfect family travel bag for years to come!!)

More Helpful Travel Product Guides For Parents of Babies and Toddlers

If you’ve found this buying guide helpful, why not also check out:

• Baby Travel Essentials – Ready to fill your travel diaper bag? Here are 10 items that we never leave home without traveling with babies!
• Toddler Travel Essentials – moving to the next stage, items that have made traveling with our littles easier
• Mom Bags for the Beach – ideal accessories for a new mom planning a beach vacation
• Do I Need a Travelling High Chair? – pros and cons with different designs to choose from when it comes to baby and toddler dining on the go
• Best Nursing Covers for Travel – keep feeding while being discreet on the move
• Best Baby Bottle warmers – the fastest and most convenient way to warm a feed on the move
• Best Portable Baby Monitors – helping you keep an ear or an eye on your little ones when you’re away from home
• Best Portable Breast Pumps – making pumping on the go easier for moms with these easy-to-transport, even wearable pump options
• Portable Baby Bassinets – the best way to get infants to sleep well on the go

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What to Pack When Traveling With Baby

Fact-checking standards, latest update:, when can you travel with your baby, read this next, what to pack for your baby in a carry-on bag, what to pack in your baby's suitcase.

Happy travels!

What to Expect the First Year , 3rd edition, Heidi Murkoff. WhatToExpect.com, Flying With a Baby? Here's What to Know Before You Go , September 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Do Babies Need Passports? , October 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Best Travel Toys for Babies , February 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Baby Products You Can Take on a Plane , September 2020. American Academy of Pediatrics, Flying with Baby: Parent FAQs , November 2019. American Academy of Pediatrics, Is It Safe for Families to Travel Now? , August 2021. American Academy of Pediatrics, Travel Safety Tips , August 2018.  American Academy of Pediatrics, Is It Safe for My Baby to Travel in a Car Seat a Few Hours at a Time? , August 2021. Transportation Security Administration, Traveling with Children . Federal Aviation Administration, Flying with Children , March 2021. Mayo Clinic, Is Air Travel Safe for an Infant? , October 2019.

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28 Best Baby Travel Accessories in 2024 (from Real Parents!)

Written by Becca

Updated on March 8th, 2024

From road trips to flying, what are the must-have accessories and products for baby travel? See the top recommended gear ideas in strollers, carriers, sleep and feeding.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Best Travel Accessories for Babies

• Travel Stroller
• Baby-wearing during travel
• Travel diaper bags
• Travel feeding products for a baby
• International baby travel essentials
• Miscellaneous baby travel accessories

The first time we traveled with our baby, we couldn’t believe how much “stuff” we needed. We needed baby stuff for taking walks, and baby stuff for a flight, and baby stuff for a road trip and baby stuff for feeding.

With all the suggestions of baby products for travel on the market, where do you even begin? I polled my friends and collected the best of the baby products that fellow parents recommend. You can find those below, along with some of the baby travel essentials that I’ve learned to swear by after the first year of traveling with a child under one year!

Let’s begin with the must-haves for traveling with your little one, organized by category.

Travel Stroller

Wow, there sure are a lot of travel strollers to choose from. Here are some of the ones I and my “mom friends” really have, along with what they think about them

UPPAbaby Minu Travel Stroller

We chose to get the UPPAbaby Minu travel stroller for ease of use with our car seat and larger Vista stroller from UPPAbaby. As I mention in my UPPAbaby Minu Travel Stroller review , the Minu stroller is NOT the lightest and smallest of the options out there, but we like it for flying, as well as road trips with a baby .

However, it is great quality, and it survived being packed in its UPPAbaby travel bag and gate-checked, the first time with flew with it to Halifax, Canada . Folded up, it fit great in the trunk of our compact rental car for our day trips from Halifax . We were able to get the car seat adapters so that we could pop our UPPAbaby Mesa car seat right into the Minu frame.

Shop my pick

We appreciate that it folds down and pops back up with just one motion. We also think it’s a great size for our baby growing into a toddler and using this stroller well into her early years.

Doona Travel Stroller and Car Seat

Both my friends Melissa AND Cait say to bring along the Doona stroller on any type of trip, and it is highly popular. The Doona can be installed as a car seat for an infant on a plane, so many parents choose it for flying with a baby for the first time .

Basically, the Doona goes from “car seat” to “stroller” in just a few seconds. The ENTIRE stroller frame folds down within the car seat, so you’re ready to go with strollering from being in the car. You’ll also see that parents love the Doona while being on the go in big cities, like taking a baby to NYC .

Doona Travel Stroller

The Doona is a revolutionary car-seat-to-stroller travel product approved for aircraft travel!

Zoe Jogger City Tour 2

My friend Sam recommends the compact Zoe stroller for travel , which is called the Baby Jogger City Tour 2. It’s ultra-compact, durable and lightweight, with a one-step fold. It’s easy enough to fold with one arm while you’re carrying a baby in the other!

This stroller weighs only 14 lbs. and folds up into a neat shape for transportation. The travel bag comes included.

Baby-wearing during travel

I never thought I’d be a mom who “wore” her baby! I think a baby carrier is an absolute essential for trips. I used a baby carrier in the airport for our first flight with our baby, as well as during hikes on one of our road trips, and walking around cities during our travels.

Here are some personal recommendations, and for more, check out a list I wrote with my friend Rachel about the best baby carriers for traveling .

Shop the best baby carriers for travel

Baby Tula Carrier Lite

This brilliant baby travel product is a lightweight nylon carrier that folds up into a fanny pack for travel days.

This is a wrap-style carrier that can be used from infant to toddler. It packs down small like fabric in your bags.

I can’t say enough good things about my Baby Tula Carrier Lite . It’s the most compact and travel-sized baby carrier I’ve seen, yet it’s fully supportive (for children under 30 lbs.). I used it every day on our Canada trip, for getting our daughter into a nap while on the go, to boarding and deplaning our flights. It’s incredibly lightweight and folds up into a fanny pack that you can wear on travel days. I think it’s a brilliant product that I’ve recommended to so many parents.

If you’re taking a road trip and have space to spare, I recommend a more cushioned baby carrier. See my Baby Tula Explore carrier review to learn about another option!

The Moby Wrap is my friend Jamie’s favorite baby carrier for travel days. She notes that this one depends on the baby’s age. It might be better for small babies who like to be kept inward-facing close to a parent, and it can be great for naps while on the go. The soft and stretchy fabric folds into your luggage just like clothes.

Travel diaper bags

It took a while for us to find diaper bags for travel that really let us feel in the groove, as parents. For now, these two below are our top picks for road trips and flying.

Nike Convertible Diaper Bag

The Nike Convertible Diaper Bag works great for us because it doesn’t look like a diaper bag. It looks like a gym bag that’s cool for either Mom or Dad to bring around. We like the top tote-style opening and the three ways to wear: backpack, shoulder bag or tote bag (with the handles). It has features like tons of pockets inside for snacks and bottles, a Nike pacifier holder that snaps onto the exterior and a Nike bottle cooler!

I talk more about it at our Nike Diaper Bag review , with more photos.

Shop my picks

The Nike Diaper Bag is totally unisex, and disguises itself as a gym bag. Inside it’s spacious and has room for all the diaper bag essentials.

Kibou Diaper Bag Fanny Pack

I brought the Kibou bag on every trip we took with our baby as soon as I got it. I think it’s such a smart product for parents, and it’s the only diaper bag you’ll be able to fit in a tiny airplane bathroom!

I brought the Kibou all through the airport and used the fold-out changing pad with my diaper essentials stashed inside. It is cool for Mom or Dad to wear, and comes in lots of nice colors in vegan leather. You will want it for doing a diaper change on a plane .

An essential for every day and for being on a trip, the Kibou fanny pack diaper bag is a minimalist changing bag that’s comfortable, modern and super useful.

Check out more photos at my Kibou Fanny Pack Diaper Bag review .

Travel feeding products for a baby

I’ve written at length about how to feed a baby while traveling because there seem to be quite a few helpful products required. Whether you are breastfeeding, formula feeding or have a baby already eating solids, here are some accessories to consider for traveling!

Formula Dispenser Combo Dispenser

This travel-sized handy formula-feeding accessory that my sister uses has an 8-ounce capacity and makes bottle-feeding easy while on the go.

Hakka (Travel-Sized) Hand Pump

My friend Rachel says to bring a Hakka, for breastfeeding mothers. A silicone hand pump like this comes in a travel-sized version that I’ve used, and it’s squishy silicone, fitting in a diaper bag or in luggage with limited space.

Snack Wheel / Snack Spinner

Recommended by my friend Shira, this “snack wheel” has different compartments that fit 1/4 cups of solid food. It’s convenient and leak-proof, great for road trips and flights.

There are SO many accessories you can bring on a plane with your little one to make the time pass and to make the experience acceptable. Check out the recommendations from my friends and family below, and for all other ideas, check out my best tips for flying with a baby !

Cosco Scenera NEXT Convertible Car Seat

Recommended by my friend Daniela, this car seat is certified for use on an aircraft and holds a child from 5 to 40 lbs.

Suction cup spinning toys

Pass the time on a flight with a baby with these spinning toys that suction to the airplane window, or the seat tray! These are my cousin Andrea’s idea and she took them on a flight with her baby.

Lightweight blanket

This idea comes from my sister Lily, who flew with her 5-month-old and said having a blanket is handy for if the flight gets cold, or to use as a darker canopy on a sleeping child during the flight.

“Unfamiliar toys”

My friend Rachel says for a flight, bring random unfamiliar toys that are new and novel for your little one. This is a great trick! It means being on the flight and introducing a brand new toy that creates excitement like any time your little one sees something new. Remember to bring flight-friendly items like busy books or sensory toys .

If you have read my list of tips for sleeping in a hotel room with a baby , you know that the whole family’s sleep during a trip is a big deal for me. See the baby sleep essentials that are crucial for how to get better sleep during travel .

Travel Crib

We tried out the Guava Lotus Crib and compared it to similar brands’ cribs like the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib . It’s lightweight, modern and safe, and folds up compactly into a backpack that I can wear through the airport before checking it as a bag.

You can see all the step-by-step fold-out and pack-up photos in my Guava Lotus travel crib review .

Guava Lotus Travel Crib

This travel crib packs down into a backpack-style carrying case, and is lightweight, attractive and quick to set up.

Travel sound machine

My friend Daniela is very good at traveling with her baby, who is now a toddler . She recommends having a travel sound machine , and I recommend it, too! We’ve used a travel sound machine for nap time and night time in Airbnbs and hotels.

Yogasleep Travel Sound Machine

We like how small this travel sound machine is, and the sound quality is pretty good, too. Always make sure it’s charged!

Nanit Pro Baby Monitor

Daniela recommends the Nanit monitor as one to bring with you on vacation. This baby monitor was really made for being on the go — you can stow it away in a large purse with its carrying case for travel (so cool). Many parents recommend this baby monitor for families who travel often.

Nanit Pro Smart Baby Monitor & Flex Stand

The Nanit baby monitor works via a phone app, so you can eliminate having to travel with a monitor screen.

Slumberpod Blackout Canopy

My friend Ariella, as well as baby travel sleep expert Daniela, recommends the Slumberpod as a sanity-saving product during travel with a baby. The Slumberpod is like a blackout tent that you can pop up in a hotel room or Airbnb, whether you’re sleeping in the same room as your child, or not. It creates a dark environment and the baby’s own “space,” which can make new places feel more familiar.

Slumberpod Blackout Tent

The Slumberpod fits over cribs and mini travel cribs to create a blackout sleep canopy for a baby or toddler. It makes sleeping in the same room as a baby possible.

International baby travel essentials

If you’ve traveled internationally without a baby, you know that there are some things that are just better to bring from home! Here are some must-have products to bring for traveling with a baby outside the country, from our experiences and from parents who’ve done international travel with an infant.

Metal Seatbelt Lock

My friend Cait told me that in Europe, the seatbelts don’t lock when you pull them all the way out! So, she bought a seatbelt clip product that holds the seatbelt in place in order to use an American infant car seat in a European car or taxi. She had no idea that they needed this until they arrived in Italy, and couldn’t get the seatbelt to “lock.” This gadget saved the day for their son’s safety.

Infant thermometer & medicines

When we traveled to Canada , our daughter ran a fever the first day. We wound up having to go to a local pharmacy, only to get a baby thermometer in Celsius degrees! A baby thermometer was the one thing we forgot to bring from home, although I had remembered to pack Infant Tylenol that we were really glad we had.

My recommendation is to bring your tried and tested medications and thermometer from home, so that you know they work and that your child does not have any adverse reactions to them. Having medical essentials from home, especially in your native language and Fahrenheit (if you’re American) is crucial when you’re under stress.

Shop the picks

This seatbelt lock helps with setting up a baby’s car seat in a taxi or car in other countries.

Digital Baby Thermometer

Travel with a three-way-use thermometer for unexpected health scenarios while on the road.

Miscellaneous baby travel accessories

There are a few bonus items of all sorts that could be useful during a trip with a baby. See the ideas from my friends below.

Travel baby bath

My friend Daniela has bathed her child using this inflatable baby bath that many parents consider an essential when away from home. It’s portable and foldable, which makes traveling with it quite simple. It can be used in a hotel or vacation rental shower or bath tub.

Baby item clips

For being on the go, the last thing you want is to lose something. Bringing “items with clips,” according to my friend Jesse, is smart. This includes pacifiers or teething rings on clips , mittens with clips and toys attached to leashes for a stroller bar . Here are a few ideas that we’re currently using:

Pacifier and Teether Clips

We used these clips from Babygoal for months on end, for pacifiers, teething rings and whatever else needed to be clipped to our child during travel days.

Baby mitten clips

To avoid having a single lost mitten while traveling in a winter destination, use mitten clips for keeping gloves attached to jackets.

Stroller and car seat toy straps

I wish I knew about these sooner: leashes for attaching toys, bottles or teethers to a stroller bar or car seat.

Painter’s tape

Yes, you read that right: three of my friends have recommended bringing painter’s tape for traveling with a baby for various reasons. My friend Bona (who was featured in my list of family-friendly places to travel ) says to use painter’s tape for anything you can think of: “Label stuff, cover up any lights from any source, tape up trash bags as ad hoc blackout curtains, and more!”

Painter’s tape can be used on a flight for a baby to play with.

Travel potty seat

Daniela now has a potty-trained toddler, and while this isn’t necessarily a baby item, it’s so brilliant that I can’t leave it out of this list. Check out how this toddler-sized potty seat folds up into a carrying bag. Incredible for travel days.

Travel potty

This potty seat turns any adult-sized toilet into one that a toddler can use! It folds up so that it can even fit in your diaper bag or luggage.

A grandparent

My friend Jordan says to bring a grandparent as one of the best things you can bring along for travel ( wink ). It’s true: having an extra set of hands, or two extra sets, with bringing along two grandparents, grants Mom and Dad some alone time during a trip. I know plenty of friends who’ve traveled with some of their child’s grandparents in order to have more adults available to help take care of a baby far from home.

Melissa says: “Bring a nanny.” If you already have a live-in au pair, or a full-time nanny, why not bring them along to have some extra help? Having your nanny with you on a trip may make sense if you have two or more kids, and can ease the idea of splitting up if an adult wants to stay back with a baby and some smaller children want to do an activity.

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The Best Dethatchers of 2024, According to Outdoor Experts

Your lawn will be looking greener in no time.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Our top picks

Best Overall Dethatcher

Greenworks 40v 14" cordless dethatcher / scarifier.

Best Value Dethatcher

Vonhaus electric lawn dethatcher scarifier & aerator.

Best Easy to Use Dethatcher

Sun joe aj805e electric lawn dethatcher + scarifier.

Best Dethatcher for Large Lawns

Agri-fab 48" tine dethatcher 45-0295.

Best Compact Dethatcher

Worx 12 amp 14" electric dethatcher.

The experts and product analysts at the Good Housekeeping Institute test outdoor gear and appliances throughout the year to help you keep your yard in excellent condition, from the best lawn mowers to electric lawn mowers , leaf blowers , pressure washers and much more. We reviewed dethatchers for specs such as weight, dimensions and style and considered brands that have performed well in previous Lab tests. We also traded testing notes with our partners at Popular Mechanics , who have decades of experience evaluating outdoor power equipment.

Greenworks 40V 14" Cordless Dethatcher / Scarifier

Greenworks tools and appliances have performed well in previous Lab tests, and we expect no less from this dethatcher. “Greenworks stands out in our tests for exceptional battery design,” DiClerico said. “Even if you have a lot of lawn to cover, say up to an acre, this 40-volt dethatcher should be able to power through the job on a single charge .” Plus, the battery itself is versatile and works across other Greenworks tools.

We also appreciate this model’s two-in-one design, which includes both a dethatcher and scarifier with quick-release attachments that are easy to switch in and out. Just keep in mind that the battery is sold separately .

VonHaus Electric Lawn Dethatcher Scarifier & Aerator

A dethatcher, scarifier and aerator in one, this lawn care essential from VonHaus is key to a greener, healthier lawn. DiClerico especially loves that it can be used to aerate the lawn. "That’s another vital thing you can do to promote a healthy root system, protecting the lawn from pests and drought," he said. While the blade's width is a bit narrower than other picks on this list, its value is certainly hard to beat. It's also one of the lightest on this list and comes with a 30-liter collection box for all debris you collect.

This corded dethatcher features an 8-gallon catcher bag that makes sprucing up your yard a breeze. Unlike bagless dethatchers, you don’t have to pick up any thatch by hand since it all goes directly into the bag. It’s ideal for small to medium-sized lawns. According to the editors at Popular Mechanics , “The spring-loaded steel tines are designed to detach and remove thatch effectively , and can be quickly switched out with a scarifier attachment for cutting through roots to optimize future grass growth.”

DiClerico also points out that Sun Joe, and its cold-weather brand mate, Snow Joe, have performed well across all the outdoor power equipment categories that we test. “Based on our engineers’ review of its specs and design, we expect the same capable performance from this dethatcher,” he said.

Agri-Fab 48" Tine Dethatcher 45-0295

Agri-Fab’s dethatcher sports an extra-large width perfect for anyone with a tractor or riding mower and a large lawn or plot of land. “The contraption is a little more advanced, but for the ‘ruralpolitan’ crowd who use a tractor to maintain acres upon acres of lawn, the Agri-Fab is a useful attachment that will help keep the grass looking great,” said DiClerico. Its pull-behind design should attach to most trailer hitches thanks to a universal fit, and the steel deck and 24 tines are designed to last several seasons.

WORX 12 AMP 14" Electric Dethatcher

Lightweight and nimble, this dethatcher comes with a padded fold-down handle that makes it as easy to store as it is comfortable to use . We like the built-in collection bag to gather up any dead grass, stems and roots. The home and outdoor gear experts at the GH Institute have tested a variety of tools from WORX, and the brand consistently stands out for its reliability, value and performance. Note, however, that it's not cordless and may require an extension cord depending on the size of your yard.

How we test the best dethatchers

The experts and engineers at the Good Housekeeping Institute regularly test lawn care equipment, including mowers and tractors. When choosing the best dethatchers, we considered brands that have performed well over the years and have proven to be reliable in our outdoor equipment testing. We also keep up with the latest models and innovations at trade shows and other industry events.

When making our selections we first reviewed each dethatcher's specs, considering factors such as type, blade width and weight. We also relied on the decades of experience from our partners at Popular Mechanics as well as our familiarity with power equipment tools and brands.

What to look for when shopping for a dethatcher

✔️ Type: According to the pros at Popular Mechanics , dethatchers may be "tow-behind, electric- or gas-powered push mowers, and rakes." Tow-behind dethatchers attach to the back of a tractor or riding lawn mower and are a great choice for larger yards. Push mower dethatchers (either powered by batteries, corded electricity or gasoline) are ideal for most consumers with medium-sized lawns. Lastly, you'll find rakes that don't rely on a power source and instead must be used manually. These are compact, easy to store and affordable, but best suited for smaller lawns.

✔️ Power source: Larger lawn owners might prefer a cordless model so you don't have to worry about being tethered to an outlet. Corded designs are suitable for smaller lawns (though you can always get a few extension cords). Whether you want a dethatcher powered by batteries, electric corded power or gasoline is ultimately up to you. Gasoline-powered dethatchers tend to be the most efficient and powerful, but they come with maintenance and refueling costs. Cordless designs that run on batteries are portable and convenient, but always check the estimated run time if you don't want to recharge halfway through your lawn.

✔️ Handle: The handle of your dethatcher should be comfortable to hold as you work through your lawn. Look for foldable handles for the most compact storage solution.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

The Good Housekeeping Institute Home Improvement and Outdoor Lab provides expert reviews and advice on outdoor gear and appliances. GH Institute writer and product analyst Olivia Lipski covers everything from consumer electronics to home, fitness, travel and more and frequently collaborates with the Home Improvement and Outdoor Lab to cover topics like humidifiers , under-sink water filters , smart toilets and more.

To write this review, she worked with the Director of the Home Improvement and Outdoor Lab, Dan DiClerico , who brings 25 years of experience to the Institute, having reviewed thousands of products, including all kinds of outdoor power equipment, for Good Housekeeping, as well as brands like Consumer Reports and This Old House. During his time at the Institute, he has evaluated all types of lawn mowers and lawn care essentials for their ease of assembly, mowing power and maintenance.

Olivia (she/her) is a media and tech product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute , covering tech, home, auto, health and more. She has more than five years of experience writing about tech trends and innovation and, prior to joining GH in 2021, was a writer for Android Central, Lifewire and other media outlets. Olivia is a graduate of George Washington University, with a bachelor's degree in journalism, political science and French, and she holds a master’s degree in communications from Sciences Po Paris.

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April Fools' Day pranks: Apps to translate baby stoner sayings, a ghostbuster at Tinder

Every april 1, brands and companies want to get some laughs – and attention – with goofy new 'product' launches. here are some ideas from companies such as sweetgreen, welch's and omaha steaks..

If you don't like Mondays, this one may especially be grating. It's April Fool's Day , when you should trust no one and question everything.

The roots of April Fools' Day may date back before to before the 15th century. But the modern-day April Fools' Day has become a day to prank a friend, family member, co-worker − or your customers.

Even though some companies have had April Fools' pranks backfire , marketers continue to issue spoof products in attempts to get some laughs and attention.

Already ahead of April Fools' Day, 7-Eleven has hinted at a possible prank product: In addition to new Lemon Lime, Green Apple and Sweet Orange flavored 7-Select sparkling waters, out now with partner Miracle Seltzer, there's a fourth flavor coming April 1: Big Bite Hot Dog.

The hot dog-flavored water "combines the mouthwatering experience of 7-Eleven’s iconic Big Bite Hot Dog into one refreshing beverage – ketchup and mustard included," the convenience chain says in a press release . "Say goodbye to the days of alternating bites of a hot dog with sips of a beverage, now those on the go can swap the bun for bubbles."

Krispy Kreme: A special doughnut deal for April Fools' Day

Will Big Bite Hot Dog sparkling water be sold? Its availability will be announced April 1. However, some reporters were sent a can of the drink. USA TODAY can confirm that it definitely smells like hot dog water and has a smoky aftertaste.

If you are interested in trying it, both 7-Eleven and Miracle Seltzer have hinted at having some to give away on their Instagram pages. (If you get a can, share with a friend as it's 16 ounces.)

Here's a roundup of many of the brand-related April Fools’ gag announcements. You've been warned.

Sour cream & onion flavored soda

Despite the proliferation of crazy-flavored products including Peeps-flavored Pepsi , Frank's RedHot sauce-flavored Vlasic pickles and Doritos Nacho Cheese-flavored liquor , healthy soda brand OLIPOP and Pringles are not really teaming up to bring to market a Sour Cream & Onion soda.

The product would have been "a match made in heaven … to bring the delicious, tangy flavor of Pringles’ Sour Cream & Onion flavor to life in liquid form with prebiotic benefits," the companies said.

Stoner lingo translation app

Another dream team prank product: Rosetta Stoned, a mobile app from Rosetta Stone and medical marijuana company Fluent , that "bridges the conversational gap between novice users and seasoned stoners in any social setting."

Da da decoder

Infant equipment site BabyQuip has its own language-bridging lark: the “Baby Translator” app, to decode your baby's secret language.

"Say 'goodbye' to restless nights as you decode your baby's coos and cries instantly, providing you with the understanding you need as a parent, all in one convenient app," it promises.

An AI-powered plush doll

Custom stuffed animal maker Budsies already makes selfie plush dolls with a built-in voice recorder. Its April Fools' spoof: Artificial intelligence-enabled dolls that "come programmed to learn everything about you and to become your new best friend."

A 50-pound Bearabuddy

Sorry to the 3,500 or so who have already signed up to buy Bearaby's Jumbo Benji plush toy, which is four times the size of its regular weighted plush toys and twice as heavy as its heaviest weighted blanket . This isn't actually going to be sold. But it is real and will be making its home in the lobby at The Child Mind Institute in Harlem to welcome children and their families. More weighted plushies are due the day after April Fools' Day, the company says.

A sleeping bag to go bananas over

The Dole Banana Peel Sleeping Bag, conveniently promoted as being available on April Fools' Day only, is made from actual banana fiber and "allows parents to escape into their own cocoon of sensory deprivation."

A full-body cleaning suit

Outrageous clothing company Tipsy Elves has a special product for April Fools' Day: The Mopsie. You don't need paper towels anymore, you can use your body to clean up those messes, with this "innovative, wearable microfiber towel jumpsuit" for "effortlessly soaking up spills and messes with ease." There's also a Baby Mopsie for "hard to reach places."

Korean BBQ deodorant

Kevin's Natural Foods , which has paleo- and keto-certified ready-to-cook and easy-prep entrées, is touting a new line of personal care products inspired by its food dishes including Korean BBQ Deodorant, Cilantro Lime Toothpaste, Lemongrass Basil Shampoo and Tikka Masala Sunscreen.

"These new face, body and hair care essentials will help fans prioritize self-care inside and out," the company says. 

Omaha Steaks' meaty sprays

Omaha Steaks has its own personal care prank product: Meaty Spritz sprays with flavors such as Omaha Fog, Hog Haze, and Cock-a-Doodle-Dew.

"The world’s first protein-infused, flavor-packed, portable pump spray … (to) enjoy all the mouthwatering flavors of your Omaha Steaks gourmet favorites no matter how far away from the kitchen you are!" the company says.

Sriracha toothpaste

Asian sauce maker Lee Kum Kee , which makes Sriracha Chili Sauce and Sriracha Mayo Dressing, is introducing – not – its Siracha Mayo Toothpaste. It's "fiery and creamy goodness … is sure to spice up your morning dental routine."

Post-salad dental kit

Need some less powerful toothpaste? Sweetgreen offered these fanciful personal hygiene products as part of its Sweetgreen After Salad Kit, which is "designed with your pearly whites in mind … offering everything you need to freshen up post-meal."

Choose from Miso Ginger Toothpaste, Spicy Cashew Mints, Lime Cilantro Dental Floss, and Sweetgreen Toothbrush and Floss Picks.

Fruit juice lip gloss

More personal care prank products: Welch’s Juicyfuls Juicy Fruit Lip Gloss – now available in five flavors: grape, orange, peach, strawberry and raspberry – made with real juice from Juicefuls fruit snacks so "you get that irresistible sweet flavor you love, all in a lip gloss that's as fun as it is nourishing."

Protein-powered seasonings

Quest Nutrition , maker of protein powder, snacks and other products, has a prank product line of seasonings including All Purpose, Lemon Pepper, and Garlic Herb, each of which deliver "21g of protein, 2g of net carbs and less than 1g of sugar."

If you want to try Quest's real products, you can use code NOJOKE for free shipping on online orders over $49 April 1-3.

Superpowered Superfeet?

These would certainly come in hand on a run, but – sorry – it's a jogging joke. Superfeet SuperBoost Power E-Soles gives you 8 hours of continuous battery-powered boost, for almost Iron Man-like propulsion. "All the comfort and support of Superfeet , now with electrifying performance," the company says in a video about the prank product. "It's like having a powerful electric motor in your shoes."

Scotch tape-branded Scotch?

This shenanigan seems like a blend that could stick: Scotch Whisky by Scotch Brand. The whisky "features a nose of cherry wood and a delightfully smooth finish that hits like a well-wrapped gift."

Who you gonna call when ghosted? This new title at Tinder

Dating app Tinder announced a new April Fools' Day hiring quest for a Vice President of Ghost Hunting to help combat "one of dating culture’s most prevalent vices – ghosting," a practice inflicted on 78% of singles already in 2024 (an untrue fact from Tinder).

Patrón's bringing back a beloved liqueur. No kidding.

Patrón patrons get some good news today. The premium tequila maker chose April Fools' Day to announce the return of its Patrón XO Cafe tequila-based coffee liqueur, which was discontinued in 2021. Since production ceased, devotees took to social media and signed a petition asking parent company Bacardi to bring it back.

Made with Patrón Silver tequila and Arabica bean coffee – the dry liqueur can be sipped straight, in cocktails and as dessert topping – Patrón XO Cafe will begin arriving in stores again later this month.

Say it with dead flowers

Don't forget to put roses on your April Fools' Day list. UrbanStems has this "special" delivery, The Dead Inside Collection, "an assortment of dead flower bouquets, dead plants, half empty vases, and more for the pessimist in your life." But, for real, check UrbanStems' social media accounts including Instagram for how to get 20% off an order of real flowers.

Cheesecake Factory's real deals

The Cheesecake Factory  also has a deal that's no joke: Sign up for the chain's Cheesecake Rewards loyalty program on April 1 to get an Any Slice, Half Price reward, redeemable for 50% off any slice of cheesecake or layer cake, with any food or beverage purchase (no gift cards).

Those who were members before April 1 will find something special in their account on Monday, too: either a free slice of cheesecake each month for a year, a free whole cheesecake, a free slice of cheesecake, $5 off $25 purchases, or $10 off $40 purchases. (All rewards redeemable by April 16; can be redeemed for dine-in, to-go and DoorDash.)

New merch from Dunkin', bonus points in app

Dunkin' announced it is going back to its roots and rebranding to just "Donuts'" on Monday, April 1. To celebrate the rebrand, the company is selling "Donuts'" merch, including sweatshirts that read "DONUTS," on ShopDunkin.com .

Additionally, Dunkin' Rewards members will receive 3x bonus points on any donut order through the mobile app on April 1.

Urban Outfitters launches 'Name Three Shirts' movement

Urban Outfitters said it is launching a global movement to "stand in solidarity against band-tee-shaming" by launching a new collection called "Name Three Shirts."

The t-shirt line "playfully mocks the gatekeeping attitudes of older generations who insist that band-shirt wearers should be required to name songs by those artists," the company said in a news release.

The line, which features revamped logos from bands such as The Grateful Dead, Joy Division and Led Zeppelin, is a "playful jab at the attitudes of older generations, and fights back against the misogynistic undertones of the infamous ‘name three songs’ line of questioning," Urban Outfitters said in the news release.

The collection of shirts is available online and in select Urban Outfitters stores starting April 1. You can shop the collection online here .

Auntie Anne's, Frontier Airlines collaborate on Pretzel Plane

Auntie Anne's pretzels and Frontier Airlines announced they have collaborated on the newest addition to Frontier's fleet: the Pretzel Plane.

According to a news release, the plane includes new in-flight entertainment featuring Auntie Anne's pretzels rolled seat-side, the "luxurious" smell of hot, fresh pretzels throughout the cabin and airplane-shaped pretzels if you're feeling hungry.

Moe's Southwest Grill, Sonic team up to introduce a Queso Slush

Two popular fast food chains announced a collaboration that is sure to be polarizing.

Moe's and Sonic announced a new beverage, the Queso Slush, a queso-flavored slushie. "The frozen goodness of a Sonic Slush meets the delicious flavor of Moe's queso."

Follow Mike Snider on X and Threads:  @mikesnider  & mikegsnider .

Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X  @GabeHauari  or email him at [email protected].

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Home » Europe » Moscow

5 AMAZING Neighborhoods and Areas in Moscow (2024)

Russia’s capital Moscow is known for a number of things; history, culture, nightlife, and crazy architecture.

But with over 100 distinct neighborhoods spread amongst 12 main districts, figuring out where to stay in Moscow can be a bit tricky. While Moscow does have an extensive public transport system, it’s best to stay in an area of Moscow that suits your interests.

This guide will break down the five best neighbourhoods to stay in Moscow, as well as the top things to do in each. That way, you’ll be able to find somewhere that suits your travel style and budget.

Top 3 Recommendations for Where to Stay in Moscow

Moscow neighborhood guide – places to stay in moscow, 5 best neighborhoods to stay in moscow, faq about finding a place to stay in moscow, what to pack for moscow, don’t forget travel insurance for moscow, final thoughts on where to stay in moscow.

Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Moscow.

For more information on hostels, check out our post:  best hostels in Moscow .

Loft 3 Vokzala | Best Airbnb in Moscow

This stunning Airbnb in Moscow is ideal for groups or families. The apartment has been recently renovated and is bright contemporary. Guests can enjoy a full kitchen and internet access, and free parking and a gym are available on-site. The bedroom is a bit cosy, but you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable stay.

Loft Hotel H11 | Best Hotel in Moscow

Loft Hotel H11 is the coolest hotel in Moscow. Conveniently located on the borders of Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod, this hotel is a short walk Moscow’s major attractions as well as several metro stations.

Godzillas Hostel | Best Hostel in Moscow

Godzillas is Moscow’s largest and most famous hostel. In the heart of Tverskoy, this three-story hostel is a short walk from the city’s major sights and attractions. With comfortable beds and modern amenities, you won’t find a better hostel in the city.

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

Kitay-Gorod

Kitay-Gorod is the neighbourhood at the heart of Moscow. Home to the city’s most famous attractions, Kitay-Gorod is the place to stay on your first visit to Moscow.

Travelling on a budget is difficult, but not impossible in Moscow. The best place to stay to get the most value for your money in the Presnensky neighbourhood.

North of Kitay-Gorod is the hip, trendy and lively neighbourhood of Trverskoy. This centrally located neighbourhood is not only home to a number of amazing attractions, but it is within walking distance to the city’s main landmarks.

Arbat/Khamovniki

The neighbouring districts of Arbat and Khamovniki are one of the best places to stay in Moscow for trendiness. Home to luxury shops, unique boutiques, and outstanding museums, Arbat/Khamovniki are where bohemian flare and modern creativity meet.

If you’re travelling with children, Basmanny is the best place to stay in Moscow. A calm oasis in the heart of the city, Basmanny is a neighbourhood known for its relaxed atmosphere, clean streets, and lush surrounding scenery.

Moscow is an impressive city, to say the least. Covering more than 2,500 square kilometres, Moscow is the home to nearly 12 million people.

Thanks to its rich and complex history, thousands of travellers flock to Moscow each year. From iconic sights and unique Russian fare to its vivid nightlife or cultural attractions, there’s so much to see and do in Russia’s capital.

The oldest section outside of the Kremlin, Kitay-Gorod is located at the heart of the city. Red Square and St. Basil’s Cathedral are located within walking distance of this neighborhood. It’s one of the best places to stay for getting to know the area, making it our top pick for first-time visitors.

If you’re traveling on a budget , Presnensky is an affordable and convenient location to stay in. Close to Moscow Zoo and within walking distance to other attractions, accommodation here is generally cheaper than other areas.

Tverskoy is home to Moscow’s best nightlife scene. It’s a luxurious and trendy neighborhood, home to clubs, bars, and world-class restaurants.

Arbat is a very hip district, and one of the coolest places to stay in Moscow. The area attracts many young professionals, and is full of trendy cafes and rustic restaurants.

Basmanny sits in the east of the city. With its laidback atmosphere, Basmanny is a great place to experience the slower side of Moscow life. It’s our top pick for families visiting Moscow, as it’s a peaceful base from which to explore the city.

Still not sure where to stay in Moscow? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Read on for a more detailed breakdown of each area.

Each of Moscow’s neighborhoods offers something special to visitors. Whether you’re looking for an all-night party or to immerse yourself in the city’s dynamic history, there’s a neighborhood that will cater to you.

1. Kitay-Gorod – Where to Stay in Moscow for your First Time

Kitay-Gorod lies at the heart of Moscow. Home to the city’s most famous attractions, staying here is the best way to discover the city. It’s walking distance from many major attractions, including Red Square, the Kremlin and St. Basil’s Church.

The area is also home to impressive architectural masterpieces, an exotic restaurant scene, and fascinating museums. Whether you’re interested in the arts, architecture, or seeing the sights, there’s something for everyone in Kitay-Gorod.

Entire Flat in Kitay-Gorod | Best Airbnb in Kitay-Gorod

This modern flat in a central location is ideal for couples visiting Moscow for the first time. Guests can enjoy the full kitchen, laundry facilities and free Wifi. The location is ideal, as the Airbnb is within walking distance of shops, cafes, and cultural attractions.

Kremlin Lights | Best Hostel in Kitay-Gorod

Despite sitting in the heart of Moscow, dorm rooms in this hostel are pretty affordable. The hostel comes with a fully equipped kitchen, and is within walking distance of shops and restaurants. The location is also hard to beat, as the Kremlin is less than 200 metres away.

Hotel Maroseyka 2/15 | Best Hotel in Kitay-Gorod

This three-star hotel is one of the best places to stay in Moscow for the first time, thanks to its central location and affordable rates. While it’s not as cheap as a hostel, the hotel offers an airport shuttle, laundry facilities, Wifi, ensuite bathrooms and a TV. The Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral are within walking distance, and shops and restaurants are right next door.

Top Things to do in Kitay-Gorod:

• Walk through the iconic, impressive and imposing Red Square.
• Explore Moscow’s Kremlin, the epicentre of Russia’s political power and fortified complex in the centre of the city.
• Marvel at a myriad of Russian treasures, imperial arms, jewellery and more at the Armoury.
• See the iconic St. Basil’s Cathedral, with its colourful spires and patterned façade.
• Line up at the western corner of Red Square to enter Lenin’s Mausoleum, where you can see the embalmed body of Soviet Russia’s infamous leader.
• Visit Grand Kremlin Palace, the official residence of the Russian president.
• Climb 137-steps to the top of the Ivan the Great Bell Tower, and take in one of a kind views of Moscow.
• Visit the Moscow GUM Department Store, a lively shopping mall with hundreds of shops and restaurants.

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2. Presnensky – Where to Stay in Moscow on a Budget

Budget travel can be difficult, but definitely isn’t impossible in Moscow. Located on the north side of Boulevard Ring, Presnensky (or Presnya) is home to numerous attractions, restaurants and top literary sites.

With affordable hotels, hip nightlife and impressive architecture, Presnensky has a lot to do for even the tightest of budgets.

Bright and Cosy Studio | Best Airbnb in Presnensky

This modern studio sleeps two guests, and is perfect for couples or solo travelers visiting Moscow on a budget. You’ll have all the comforts of home including a full kitchen and Wifi. The studio is steps away from the famous 1905 Street, and there are numerous bars and restaurants in the area. If you want to travel further afield, the metro is within easy walking distance.

Boutique Hotel on Mukomolniy | Best Hotel in Presnensky

Rooms in this boutique hotel can sleep up to three guests and come with free Wifi. The hotel also provides a very affordable breakfast each morning, so you can eat well without breaking the budget. Public transport is a short-walk away, so you can make the most of the city at a fraction of the price of other hotels.

High Level Moscow | Best Hostel in Presnensky

High Level is the first hostel in Moscow to be set in a skyscraper! Sitting 171m above ground level, you’ll be sure to get incredible views of the city from every window. The building is set in the commercial district, so you’ll have plenty of shops nearby. It’s also close to public transport, so the best things in Moscow are within easy reach.

High Level Moscow is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

Top Things to do in Presnensky:

• Enjoy a traditional Russian meal of blinchiki, caviar, and vodka at the iconic Café Pushkin.
• Spend an afternoon learning about space, the stars and beyond at the Moscow Planetarium, one of the city’s most popular museums.
• Sit back and relax in Patriarch’s Pond, a favourite haunt of Moscovites of all-ages.
• See the stunning works of Russia’s impressionist artists at the city’s newest museum, the Museum of Russian impressionism, located in a former Bolshevik chocolate factory sugar silo.
• Explore the remarkable Gorky’s House (Ryabushinsky Mansion, the art nouveau mansion of famed writer Maxim Gorky.
• Marvel at the immense Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, the largest Catholic Church in Russia.

3. Tverskoy – Where to Stay in Moscow for Nightlife

North of Kitay-Gorod is the hip, trendy and lively neighborhood of Trverskoy. This centrally located neighborhood is not only home to a number of amazing attractions, but it is also within walking distance to the city’s main landmarks.

Home to luxury boutique and upscale restaurants, Tverskoy is a neighborhood where history and elegance mesh seamlessly with modern amenities and opulence. If hitting the town is a key aspect of your Moscow itinerary, then Tverskoy is the place to be.

Studio Apartment Mayakovskaya | Best Airbnb in Tverskoy

This apartment can accommodate up to four guests, and sits close to shops and restaurants. The Airbnb comes with a full kitchen and all the comforts of home including Wifi, a TV, and laundry facilities. It’s right by the metro, so all of Moscow’s best bars and nightlife are within easy reach.

ARIUM Hotel | Best Hotel in Tverskoy

ARIUM Hotel is a great choice for travellers interested in culture and fun. The hotel is central to Moscow’s nightlife scene, located just minutes away from all of the city’s hottest clubs.

Godzillas Hostel | Best Hostel in Tverskoy

Godzillas is the largest and best hostel in Moscow , and for good reason. Situated in the heart of Tverskoy, this three-story hostel is a short walk from the city’s major sights and attractions. With comfortable beds and modern amenities, you’ll have everything you need for an awesome stay.

Top Things to do Tverskoy:

• Enjoy cheap beer, table games, and Russian techno tunes at Gogol, one of Moscow’s oldest and most popular clubs.
• Night Flight is a world renowned venue. It’s expensive af, however if you can afford to head on over then it’s absolutely worth it.
• Spend an evening enjoying the ballet or an opera at the Bolshoi Theatre : the heart and soul of Moscow’s arts and culture scene.
• Enjoy art, festivals, food and fun at Hermitage Park, a charming garden and one of the most popular and trendiest places in the city.
• Visit VDNKh, a Stalinesque theme park featuring gilded statues, grandiose pavilions, and thrilling rides.
• See an impressive collection of 20th-century paintings, sculptures and other works of art by famous Russian and foreign artists at the Moscow Museum of Modern Art.
• Enjoy luxury boutiques and upscale restaurants as you walk along the lively and grand Tverskaya Street.

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4. Arbat- The Coolest Place to Stay in Moscow

Home to luxury shops, unique boutiques, and outstanding museums, Arbat is where bohemian flare and modern creativity meet.

Moscow’s former warehouse and factory district, Arbat now attracts numerous Moscow elites. From advertising to tech execs, young professionals flock to Arbat to enjoy its world-class restaurants, stylish bars and irresistible cafes.

Perfect City View Apartment | Best Airbnb in Arbat

Stylish, spacious, modern and conveniently located, there’s no better Airbnb in Arbat. Close to a myriad of restaurants and the Moscow metro, you’ll feel at home in this apartment in the heart of Arbat.

Hotel Grafskiy | Best Hotel in Arbat/Khamovniki

Modern amenities and an unbeatable location make Hotel Grafskiy the best hotel in Arbat. A 10-minute walk to the city centre, Hotel Grafskiy is close to restaurants, bars and attractions. You’re guaranteed a comfortable and relaxing stay at Hotel Grafskiy.

Jedi Hostel | Best Hostel in Arbat/Khamovniki

With incredible views and an amazing location, Jedi Hostel is the best place to stay in Arbat. Enjoy comfortable and private capsule-like rooms at this clean and safe hostel. The hotel is less than 20-minutes away from the city centre, and is close to metro stations and grocery stores.

Jedi Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

Top Things to do in Arbat:

• See priceless works of art at the Pushkin Museum of Fine Art, Moscow’s premier foreign-art museum.
• Enjoy some of the best seafood in the city at Rico one of Arbat’s best-kept secrets.
• Be amazed by the magnitude and magnificence of the historic and ostentatious Cathedral of Christ the Saviour .
• Immerse yourself in history at Park Pobedy, a green space filled with fountains, monuments and statues commemorating the sacrifices and triumphs of war.
• Sample retro Russian fare at Varenichnaya No 1, an old-school style restaurant with delicious food and amazing prices.
• Climb to the top of the Sparrow Hills lookout and enjoy amazing views of the surrounding city and scenery.
• Take a stroll down Arbat Street, a 1-kilometre long pedestrian boulevard and enjoy all the sights, sounds and smells of this lively neighborhood.

5. Basmanny – Where to Stay in Moscow for Families

If you’re travelling with children, Basmanny is the best place to stay in Moscow. A calm oasis in the heart of the city, Basmanny is known for its relaxed atmosphere, clean streets, and lush surrounding scenery.

Well situated to the east of the city-centre, Basmanny is a short walk or subway ride to Moscow’s main attractions. Within this charming neighborhood, there’s plenty of activities for travelers of any age.

Loft Hotel H11 | Best Hotel in Basmanny

Conveniently located just over a mile from the city center, this hotel is a short walk Moscow’s major attractions and several metro stations. Enjoy a continental breakfast each morning, before heading out to enjoy all awesome things that Moscow has to offer.

Good News Hostel | Best Hostel in Basmanny

Comfortable beds, free wifi and a decent location, this hostel has it all! Good News Hostel is close to a myriad of cafes, bars, and noteworthy attractions. It even offers bike hire if you’d prefer to skip the metro and explore the city on two wheels.

Good News Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

Top Things to do in Basmanny:

• Rent paddleboats in the summer or ice skates in the winter and enjoy Chistye Prudy, a clean, quiet and quaint pond in that runs along the Boulevard Ring.
• Step back in time and see Lubyanka, headquarters of the infamous Russian KGB.
• Hop on a bike and enjoy the crisscrossing paths through Sokolniki park, home to a manicured rose garden, cool places to eat, and an open-air swimming pool.
• Enjoy Russia’s biggest toy store, Central Children’s Store, located just west of the Basmanny neighborhood.
• Head 60m underground and explore Bunker-42 Cold War Museum, a 700 square meter museum housed in a defunct Cold War communications centre.
• Slow down and smell the roses and ornamental flowers at Aptekarsky Ogorod, Moscow’s pleasant and pretty botanical garden.

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Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Moscow and where to stay.

What is the best neighborhood to stay in Moscow?

Kitay-Gorod is our pick for the best neighborhood in Moscow – especially if it is your first time here. It is centrally located and full of quirky hostels like Kremlin Lights .

Which places to stay in Moscow are good for families?

Basmanny is known as an oasis within the bustling Moscow city. This makes it great for families! There are family-friendly hotels too like, Loft Hotel H11 .

Where should I stay in Moscow for nightlife?

Tverskoy is where you want to be to party! It’s full of lively bars and clubs, as well as cool hostels full of other adventurers to meet.

What are some good airbnbs in Moscow?

There are lots of cool airbnbs to stay in Moscow, but two of our favourites are this modern loft and this cosy apartment .

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Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

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Sea To Summit Micro Towel

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Moscow is full to the brim with awesome neighborhoods and places to visit. It’s simple to travel across the city, but staying in a neighborhood that suits your travel style is the best way to make the most out of your trip.

If you’re still undecided, we recommend Godzillas Hostel for their top location and modern amenities. If you’re after a private room, check out  Loft Hotel H11 . Located centrally, you’re sure to have a comfortable stay.

• Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Moscow .
• Planning out an itinerary for Moscow is a great way to maximise your time.
• Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
• Our in-depth Eastern Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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Is the recommended hotel Loft Hotel H11 close enough to the center?

Good tips, this is one of those cities where you want to be as close to the center as possible, even if it isn’t the cheapest option.

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A guide to the very best shopping in Moscow

Sep 17, 2019 • 5 min read

While shopping in GUM department store be sure to check out its famous glass roof © Popova Valeriya / Shutterstock

Shopping in Moscow can be quite a daunting experience – you can walk for miles without finding anything but mass-market brands and overpriced boutiques. But, if you do it right, it can also be quite fun. Here are our top tips on how to get the most out of your shopping trip in Moscow.

Shopping malls 

There are many shopping malls all around Moscow, but there three that double as bona fide tourist attractions: GUM, TsUM and Detsky Mir, all within walking distance from each other. GUM is one of the oldest department stores in the country. It’s famous for the glass roof designed by one of Russia’s most celebrated architects, Vladimir Shukhov.  Today it serves as a high-class shopping mall. There are plenty of luxury shops, a supermarket that sells lots of signature Russian goods and several places to eat. Head to the more expensive  Bosco Cafe with a Kremlin view or, for a budget option, try the Soviet-style cafeteria Stolovaya No 57 . GUM also occasionally hosts contemporary art exhibitions in one of its three main aisles.

The Red Square and beyond: a guide to Moscow’s neighbourhoods

TsUM  is another shopping mall from the pre-revolutionary times. It’s the most luxurious store in the city, famous for its paper bags that many Muscovites carry around or post pictures of on Instagram to let everyone know they shop there. Full of haute couture boutiques, TsUM also has a rooftop restaurant Buro , frequented by Russian celebrities. Tsentralny Detsky Mir  children's store is perfect if you are looking for a gift for a kid or want to check out its awesome viewing platform with good views over central Moscow. At just R50 per ticket it’s a steal. 

Food stalls and markets 

There are two food markets that are worth checking out in Moscow.  Danilovsky Market  became the trailblazer of Moscow’s foodie revolution when it got an uplift in 2017. As well as many trendy food stalls, the market also hosts lectures, film viewing and even theatre productions, and it recently opened an antiques section. It’s an architectural landmark, a masterpiece of late Soviet modernism that looks like a UFO. Food at  Usachevsky Market  tends to be a bit more pricey and upmarket. Both markets also sell plenty of fresh produce, local cheeses and cured meats.

Antiques and flea markets 

Shopping can also be a way to get away from the major landmarks and explore some sights off the beaten path. Moscow’s #1 flea market is  Izmailovsky , located in and around the pseudo-historical complex 'Izmailovsky Kremlin' with its colourful walls and domes. Open daily, it’s best to come here on the weekend to catch better deals. Admittedly tacky, Kremlin has a handful of weird museums like the Vodka History Museum or Baba Yaga Museum (Baba Yaga is a Russian fairy tale character). Part of the market had been gentrified into creative cluster Vernissage , with hipster coffee shops, various workshops and Svalka , an enormous two-floor secondhand shop with everything from used books to vintage clothing.

For high-class antiques, rare books and icons head to Antikvarnaya Lavka (Antique Store) just off Bolshaya Nikitskaya street (5 Kalashny Pereulok). Here you can snag a real masterpiece – a painting or a sculpture – but the prices are quite steep. 

Four great day trips from Moscow

If you are looking for a more authentic place with less hustle, one option is the antiques market on the premises of vodka distillery Crystal (4 ul Samokatnaya), which you can reach by taking tram 20 to Samokatnaya ul from the exit of metro Chkalovskaya. The market is located in the basement of one of the red-brick factory buildings. There are plenty of antiques, books and various Soviet-time memorabilia, such as Stalin and Lenin busts. While at Crystal, be sure to check out great works of street art – they are all around the factory premises. 

For die-hard antique collectors there’s also a place right outside of Moscow – Novopodrezkovo market (also know as Levsha market). Take a suburban train from Leningradsky station to Novopodrezkovo (approximately half an hour), cross the tracks to the other side and there you’ll find it – a treasure trove of used books, vinyl records, clothing, paintings and antique furniture.   

Where to shop for Russian designs

Gosha Rubchinskiy might be the only Russian clothing designer of world renown, especially after his collaboration with Kanye West, but there are many more up-and-coming fashion stars worth checking out. One of the places to do it is KM20 , the place Moscow fashionistas, with streetwear brands from all over the world and a lot of very rare items. There's also one of the best vegetarian cafes in Moscow on second floor. 

GUM shopping mall has a two-storey store devoted to Russian designers –  Sektsiya (Section). Section sells products made by 50 Russian brands, from accessories to Heart of Moscow souvenir pins. Plus there’s a bar overlooking the Red Square. 

If you are not into high fashion, but still interested in getting a cool outfit with Cyrillic script, check out the creative cluster centred around two abandoned factories: Flakon and Khlebozavod . One of the biggest stores is Zaporozhets Heritage  at Flakon , which sells clothing and accessories styled after various Soviet pop culture icons. The northern part, Khlebozavod, hosts several shops like Yunost  and Khlebny  that take a more punk-rock approach to streetwear. After shopping, have a pint at a great local craft beer bar Svoboda  or a coffee at Floo .        

Sputnik 1985 is a Russian clothing brand specialising in hoodies and hats with quotes in Cyrillic and retro prints. The store is located in a courtyard on Pokrovka street (19 Ulitsa Pokrovka). 

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