Travel Must-Haves: What I Pack for Myself and My Toddler
Essentials I never travel without
Travel Made Easy
Whether I’m traveling solo, for work, or with a toddler in tow, there are a handful of items I never leave home without. Over the years, through numerous trips, I’ve fine-tuned my list of must-haves that make travel smoother, more organized, and significantly less stressful.
In this post, I’m breaking down my personal travel essentials (no kids required!) and sharing what I pack when I’m traveling with my toddler. If you’re prepping for an upcoming trip, consider this your easy, efficient, mom-tested packing guide.
Travel essentials for me
Let’s start with my personal travel MVPs, the things that keep me comfortable, organized, and ready for anything. Over the years (and many airport runs), I’ve fine-tuned my packing list to the items I truly don’t leave home without.
First up: luggage and organization. My go-to carry-on suitcase, trusty packing cubes, and this adorable yet functional toiletry bag to help keep everything in its place. I slip an AirTag into each bag for peace of mind, no more wondering if my luggage made it on the plane. We use these keychain AirTag covers to attach them to the inside zippers so they never go missing. I have more luggage-specific recommendations in my previously posted guide to luggage and carry-on bags.
For daily routines on the go, I always pack my Clean Skin Club towel travel set and travel-sized electric toothbrush. My pill organizer helps me stay on top of vitamins and medications without digging through multiple pouches. And speaking of must-haves: a portable charger has saved me more times than I can count (also love this one).
This crossbody bag is a hero for travel days, perfect for holding snacks, wipes, documents, and my phone while keeping me hands-free. I also can’t travel without my favorite no-show socks (trust me on this one).
When it comes to wardrobe maintenance, I pack a compact iron/steamer to keep clothes looking fresh. If I’m short on space or heading on a cruise, I bring this wrinkle-release spray instead; it gets the job done in a pinch. And last but not least, I always bring a pair of Cakes Body nipple covers (use code CARALYNM at checkout for 10% off). They’re the best for unpredictable outfits or throwing on under swimsuits. For more ways to use them, be sure to check out my Nipple Cover 101 guide!
Baby/toddler travel essentials
Now for the toddler side of things, because let’s be honest, their packing list somehow always ends up longer than ours!
To help keep Conrad’s routines consistent while we’re away, I always pack our SlumberPod, a mini sound machine, and his favorite pajamas, which I’ve repeatedly purchased in different sizes. These help signal sleep time, no matter where we are, hotel rooms, rental houses, or even grandma’s.
We bring a lightweight travel stroller that folds down easily and fits in the trunk or overhead compartment (you can see all the ones we’ve tested in my stroller guide!). I also use a custom labeled name pouch (I have one for myself too!) to corral all the little essentials: snacks, small toys, crayons, and wipes, easy to grab and go, and they make great gifts for fellow parents or yourself!
Entertainment and snacks are key: I always pack his favorite water bottle, a kid-friendly tablet with toddler headphones, and a rotating mix of new snacks and small activities that I add to this evolving list to keep things fresh and fun.
Don’t underestimate the power of sunglasses, great for the park, pool, or beach, and a must-have in bright destinations. And of course, wipes are always on hand, for sticky hands, snack-time cleanup, or diaper changes on the go.
For peace of mind, I never leave home without a first aid kit, and I always include baby/children’s Tylenol, Motrin, Benadryl, Pedialyte packets, and other travel-sized medications we might need. One unexpected hero item? A pop-up chair. It’s been a lifesaver at beaches, parks, hotel rooms, and even restaurants we’ve been to that don’t have high chairs.
All of these little comforts add up to smoother travel days, for him and for me. They help us both enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
Thanks for reading!
Whether you’re hopping on a plane, hitting the road, or planning your next family adventure, having the right essentials can make all the difference. These tried-and-true favorites are part of our travel rhythm, they help things run smoother and make unfamiliar places feel just a little more like home. I’d love to know: what are your can’t-travel-without items? Drop them in the comments, let’s keep the mom-tested (and travel-tested!) tips flowing. You can find more travel-inspired content and trip roundups on the “TRAVEL” section of the blog!
xx CMK