Planning on traveling with a baby this summer?

You’re not alone, and you’re definitely not the only one feeling a little overwhelmed. As a mom and photographer who works with families all the time, I know how challenging (and rewarding!) traveling with a baby can be!

Whether it’s your first big trip or just your first time flying with a little one, these tips for traveling with a baby this summer will help things run more smoothly. That way, you can focus on making memories instead of stressing over the logistics.

Less Stuff, Smarter Stuf

Babies require a lot, but not everything. Stick to the essentials, and choose items that do double-duty, like:

• A muslin swaddle that can act as a nursing cover, blanket, or car seat shade
• A backpack-style diaper bag that keeps your hands free
• Travel-sized versions of your everyday gear

Pro Tip: Use a large Ziploc or pouch to keep a full outfit change (for baby and you!) accessible in case of a blowout or spill.

Snacks + Milk = Lifesavers

If you’re breastfeeding, wear something comfortable to nurse in and stay hydrated. If you’re bottle feeding, pre-portion your formula or pack frozen breast milk in a small cooler. Always bring more than you think you’ll need. Travel schedules can be unpredictable and you don’t want to be left unprepared.

And if you’re also traveling with a toddler? Snacks solve everything. Pack familiar favorites and a few fun “trip-only” treats.

Sleep Setup Matters

When you’re traveling with a baby this summer, sleep can make or break the whole experience. Prioritize bringing items that help your baby sleep well, even in unfamiliar places.

Bring:

• A portable crib or travel bassinet
• A blackout cover or SlumberPod if sharing a room
• A white noise machine or app
• Their go-to sleep sack or lovey (if age-appropriate)

Keep the bedtime routine as close to normal as possible, even on vacation.

Time Your Travel Around Naps

If you can, plan flights during nap time, especially if your baby sleeps well in a carrier or while snuggled. If not, opt for early morning departures when your baby is well-rested.

Driving? Early morning or evening road trips often mean long stretches of sleep (just plan stops for feeding and diaper changes).

The Busy Bag (Yes, Even for Babies)

For babies 6 months and older, create a small toy kit with soft books, teething rings, crinkle toys, and suction toys for windows or tray tables. If you have older siblings in tow, mess-free markers, sticker books, and a tablet with headphones are gamechangers.

Lower the Bar

There will be diaper changes on the floor, spilled snacks, and maybe a missed nap or two. The key to traveling with a baby this summer? Keep your expectations low and your flexibility high. Some of the best memories come from the chaos. And to capture those memories? I like to shoot with my film camera – there’s something so nostalgic about film and I love the look to capture our vacation memories. But you don’t need a big fancy camera like mine. Disposable cameras are a fun, affordable option – you can purchase a couple and let your kids capture the vacation through their eyes!

My Summer Travel ShopMy Essentials

Need help figuring out what to pack? I’ve rounded up my must-haves on ShopMy. Some are personal favorites, and others come straight from my clients who’ve traveled with babies and little ones:

➡️ See My Summer Travel with Kids Essentials on ShopMy

You’ll find:

• Compact strollers and travel cribs
• Sleep gear for babies and toddlers
• Diaper bag must-haves
• Travel-friendly feeding supplies
• Entertainment for car rides or flights
• Smart items for beach, hotel, or Airbnb stays
• Disposable cameras for capturing the memories

Bonus: Need Help Planning the Trip Itself?

If you’re not just packing – but planning – it all, I highly recommend working with Sydney Patterson Travel. She’s a travel advisor, mom, and client of mine who truly understands the logistics of traveling with kids (She’s got two littles herself!)

Whether you need help finding a baby-friendly resort or structuring a flight schedule around naps, Sydney’s got you covered. You can find her on Instagram @sydneypattersontravel or reach out directly for one-on-one planning support.

Traveling with a baby this summer might feel like a lot, but with a little planning and a few essentials, it’s absolutely doable. And who knows – you might even enjoy it.