Here’s a handy checklist to help you pack for traveling with your baby or toddler if you're going somewhere warm like Costa Rica or the Caribbean:
1. Travel Essentials
- Passport for your child (and any necessary visas)
- Travel documents (itinerary, reservations, and emergency contact info)
- Stroller or baby carrier (for easy transport and naps on the go)
- Car seat (if planning to drive; check if your rental car company provides one)
2. Sleeping Needs
- Portable crib or pack-and-play (check if the Airbnb provides one)
- Familiar bedding (sleep sack, favorite blanket, or pillow)
- White noise machine or app for consistent sleep sounds
- Portable blackout shades (to keep the room dark if needed)
3. Feeding Essentials
- Snacks for travel and downtime (pouches, crackers, etc.)
- Sippy cup or straw cup (and extra bottles if still using them)
- Portable high chair or booster seat (if needed for mealtime)
- Utensils and a spill-proof bowl or plate
- Wipes and disinfectant for cleaning surfaces
4. Diapering & Hygiene
- Diapers and wipes (pack enough for travel, then buy more there)
- Changing pad (disposable pads can be helpful for travel)
- Diaper rash cream
- Hand sanitizer
- Baby shampoo, lotion, and body wash
- Toothbrush and toothpaste (baby-friendly)
5. Clothing
- Weather-appropriate outfits (layering options for Costa Rica’s climate)
- Swimwear (plus swim diapers if you’ll be in pools or the ocean)
- Sun hat and sunglasses
- Shoes for walking and water shoes for beaches
6. Health & Safety
- First-aid kit (including band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and baby-safe pain reliever)
- Thermometer
- Sunscreen (baby-safe and SPF 50+)
- Bug spray (baby-safe)
- Any prescription medications
7. Entertainment & Comfort
- Favorite toys and books (small, lightweight ones for travel)
- Pacifiers (if used) and comfort items like a stuffed animal
8. Extra Items
- Laundry detergent strips for washing clothes
- Plastic bags for dirty diapers or clothes
- Extra ziplock bags (for organizing snacks, toys, or wet items)
9. Travel Gear
- Baby monitor (if helpful for naps at the Airbnb)
- Portable fan (for keeping cool or adding white noise)
- Reusable water bottle
Having these essentials should make the trip with your little one a bit easier and more enjoyable. Safe travels!
