We started taking trips when my daughter was just 6 weeks old—several long air or car travel days, weeks away from home, and stays in hotels, Airbnbs, family and friends’ homes, and more. This list includes our absolute favorite baby travel items that have made all the difference.
These are the products we swear by to make traveling with a baby easier. From sleeping to eating to playing—and staying close during life’s busiest seasons—these are must-haves!
Sleeping Pod
A baby slumber pod is a game-changer—especially if baby is sleeping in your room. It’s essentially a tent you pop up in a few minutes that surrounds almost any pack n play or crib. It has plenty of ventilation and completely darkens the baby’s sleep space so you can have the lights on and move about the room while they sleep soundly.
It’s not soundproof, but pair it with a white noise machine and it works beautifully. We use the Hiccapop, but I’ve heard great things about both major brands. I’ve joked about putting ours in her nursery because she sleeps so well in it!
Travel Crib
We love the Baby Bjorn Travel Crib. It’s lighter and far easier to set up and take down than any pack n play we’ve used.
Travel Sound Machine
We use the Hatch Rest Sound Machine at home and bring the Hatch Mini when traveling. The sound quality is slightly lower, but it’s tiny, lightweight, and charges with an iPhone cord—worth the convenience!
? Tip: Consider registering for these travel sleep items as a package instead of individually.
Doona Car Seat/Stroller
I cannot recommend the Doona enough. It’s a car seat that transforms into a stroller and vice versa. You can:
- Push it through the airport
- Gate check it easily
- Use it in rental cars, taxis, or Ubers
This is one of the best baby products we’ve owned. It’s compact, safe, and simplifies travel like nothing else.
Travel High Chair
Now that our daughter is eating solids, this has been a lifesaver. We use a foldable high chair that pops open like a camping chair—perfect for hotel rooms, parks, or beach days.
If space is limited (especially when flying), I recommend a strap-on high chair instead. It rolls up and fits in your diaper bag, and straps securely to almost any chair.
Baby Carrier
We’re big fans of Baby Bjorn carriers. I used the Mini until she was 6 months, and now we use the Harmony. They’re supportive, soft, breathable, and easy to wear—plus stylish!
The Mini is great for 0–12 months, while the Harmony fits 0–36 months. These carriers are so cozy that my daughter often naps in them while we travel.
Travel Playpen
This is a must now that our little one is on the move. When we’re staying in a space that isn’t baby-proofed, the travel playpen keeps her safely contained. It sets up like a pack n play but is larger—perfect for playtime.
Baby Bouncer
The Baby Bjorn Bouncer gently rocks and folds completely flat for easy travel. My daughter has loved it from day one! I also recommend their carrying case if you plan to bring it along often.
Baby Monitor
We always travel with our Infant Optics monitor. It’s non-wifi (so it’s secure and hack-proof), works anywhere, and has excellent range. Great for hotels or guest homes. We also got the clip-on attachment for easier setup.
Portable Fan
Airports, taxis, and hotel rooms can get stuffy! A clip-on portable fan with long battery life is one of our favorite things to bring. It attaches to strollers, car seats, shopping carts, or stands on its own to keep baby cool.
LifeVac Dechoker
This is one of those items you buy hoping you never need. The LifeVac is a suction device designed to dislodge choking hazards. We’ve placed one in both cars, the kitchen, and in our diaper bag. I also recommend every parent take a baby CPR/first aid class for peace of mind.
Traveling with a baby takes preparation, but these tools have made it much easier—and even enjoyable—for our family. Whether you’re headed to visit relatives, taking a vacation, or managing life on the go, I hope these recommendations help you feel a little more confident and a lot more equipped!
Joe says
How did you get soooooo smart? These little tips I’m sure will help so many new families with traveling and safety. May God continue to inspire and bless you Jillian!!