Top Tips for How to Travel Light with a Baby

Ergobaby
2026-03-26T11:31:27-04:00

It might seem like an impossible task, aiming to travel light when you travel with a baby but we’ve got the tips you need! We know the temptation is to take everything “just in case” but traveling light can make traveling cheaper and life easier. Less luggage means more freedom of movement, more space for the truly important things and less money spent on airlines' exorbitant baggage fees. That’s why we’ve put together some useful tips to help you pack compactly and lightly for traveling with a baby – without having to compromise on comfort.

4 Useful Tips for Traveling Light with a Baby

Tip 1: Stick to the Essentials

Packing for a vacation? It’s so easy to overpack when traveling with a baby but try and focus on the essentials. Only bring what you really need to take from home because in most travel destinations, you’ll find stores where you can buy baby supplies if needed. With the following basics, you can pack your suitcase in a space-saving way and stay flexible:

Diapers & baby wipes: Pack just enough for the first few days. You can buy the rest locally.

Clothing: Depending on the length of your trip, choose a few interchangeable outfits for your little one then add layers (thin cardigans, a rain jacket, a vest) for changes in weather. Don’t forget basics like socks, hats and gloves if needed!

Food & drink: If you use formula then check ahead to see if you can easily find your preferred brand at your destination then plan accordingly. Then think about the minimum number of bottles and cleaning supplies you need. There are a few ways to sterilize on the go including some low-bulk options. If baby is exclusively breast/chestfed, you’ll need less of course.

Sleep items: Call ahead to your destination to check if they supply travel cribs then all you need is a sleeping bag so your little one can sleep comfortably while away. If they don’t then you’ll need to consider a travel crib but if you’re flying you can usually take this for free on top of your normal luggage allowance.

Baby’s favorite toy: While it can be tempting to pack plenty of entertainment for baby, they can often be equally amused by things around them. Stick to a favorite for a taste of home then let them find joy in the world around you as you travel.

Tip 2: Use Multi-Functional Items

Another smart tip to help you travel light when traveling with a baby is to go for accessories and items that serve more than one purpose. These practical everyday helpers save space while also making your vacation with baby easier:

A lightweight stroller with lay-flat option: Perfect for walks, sightseeing, and as a mobile sleeping space for your baby.

Portable changing pad with storage pockets: A portable changing pad that also serves as a compact diaper bag is a lifesaver! Many models come with extra pockets for diapers, wipes and creams so you’ve got everything to hand – just make sure to restock regularly.

Tip 3: Go Hands Free When Needed

The less you have to carry in your hands, the better when traveling with a baby. That’s why a baby carrier with plenty of storage is ideal for vacations – you can carry your little one and all your travel essentials comfortably while keeping your hands free for other luggage, a much-needed coffee, or your phone for navigating unfamiliar streets. A lightweight and compact baby carrier with plenty of storage can replace the need to carry a bag with you all day. Here are a few reasons why a baby carrier is so incredibly handy when traveling:

Ergonomic comfort & freedom of movement: baby’s weight is evenly distributed and cushioned by well-padded shoulder and hip straps so you can carry your baby comfortably for longer without sore arms or tense shoulders. A lumbar support also protects your lower back. Convenient for out and about, a carrier can be used anywhere and everywhere, whether you’re in a busy airport or hiking on uneven terrain or hopping on and off public transport in a new city.

Great for naps: Many babies quickly fall asleep in a carrier – perfect for stress-free naps on the go. If your little one is easily distracted then use your carrier’s built-in privacy hood if it has one to help create a calm quiet space for them to relax in. Just remember to always keep their airways clear.

Baby’s safe space: Even in the busiest environments, your baby feels secure close to you. They can explore the world or retreat when they need to. And when it’s not in use it can roll up compactly and be stored under your stroller or in your diaper bag.

Tip 4: Travel Light (Literally!) with a Lightweight Stroller

A stroller is essential for many families. But it doesn’t have to be bulky and heavy. You can pack light literally with a compact and lightweight model. It makes traveling with a baby or toddler much easier. It’s important that it folds easily, lays flat – and has enough storage space for all your essentials. If that’s covered, you can enjoy all the benefits:

Easy to store: A compact stroller folds up small and fits in the luggage racks of trains or planes. It’ll also fit in even the most crowded car trunk.

Lightweight: Thanks to its low weight, it’s easy to handle in crowded airports or train stations, or on narrow streets. If you’re not using it, just fold it up and carry it. With a carry bag, it’s even more convenient.

Compact dimensions: Vacation accommodations or hotel rooms aren’t always made for bulky strollers. It’s handy if you can just fold it up and bring it into the room. In the little grocery store around the corner, it’ll fit down every aisle – and under any café table.

Travel-optimized: Many models are designed specifically for traveling with a baby and come with added features like lay-flat positions and extra storage space for on-the-go essentials. Useful stroller accessories like bug nets, cup holders, snack trays or rain covers are also available.

Travel Light & Enjoy Traveling with a Baby

So, traveling with a baby doesn’t mean you have to lug around loads of luggage. You really can travel light if you plan ahead and prioritize what really matters so you can pack efficiently, keep your luggage minimal, and your trip will be that much more relaxed. And don’t forget to go for multi-functional accessories and must-have items like an ergonomic baby carrier and a lightweight stroller. Have fun and safe travels!