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The Ultimate Packing List for Flying With a Baby

This is how to survive hours in the air with your little one.

In This Article

• Packing Checklist

Tips for Packing

Frequently asked questions.

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja

As a mom of two, I know from personal experience that the thought of flying with a small baby can be terrifying. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do it. Travel is one of the greatest gifts you can give your children. I first flew with my daughter from South Africa to the United Kingdom when she was just shy of four months old. With family in both countries, it’s a journey we’ve done multiple times since. I soon learned that the key to making the experience as stress-free as possible for all involved (parents, baby, fellow passengers, and airline crew!) is planning and preparation. Consider your little one’s needs carefully, and then think about how you can meet them 35,000 feet above ground. 

From getting them to sleep to keeping them entertained, here are our packing essentials for flying with a baby, defined here as a child under a year old. This list haa been carefully chosen according to my own experience as well as that of two experts: Dr. Natalie Prevatt — an NHS pediatric travel, tropical medicine consultant, and the lead clinician at the Children’s Travel Doc — and veteran flight attendant Samantha Sharpe. 

Packing Checklist for Flying With a Baby

This is by no means an exhaustive list. I haven’t included many of the most obvious, day-to-day items that you most likely already have and keep in your baby bag anyway, from diapers to wet wipes and burp cloths. There are some things, like pacifiers and bottles, that your baby will have a specific preference for and these should remain unchanged before a trip (there are enough variables up in the air without worrying about whether your baby will accept a new teat type, for example.) You also won’t need everything on this list. Tailor your choices to align with your particular routine, destination, flight length, and airline rules and regulations.

Sleep and Entertainment

• Best Infant Headphones: Alpine Muffy Noise Reduction Earmuffs
• Best Tablet: Amazon Fire 7 Kids Tablet
• Best Inflatable Bed: Flyaway Kids Bed
• Best Teething Toy: Lamaze Mortimer the Moose Clip & Go
• Best Book: Priddy Books First 100 Words
• Best Noise-Free Toy: The First Years Stack & Count Stacking Cups

Food and Drink

• Best Portable Bottle Warmer: Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Portable Bottle Warmer
• Best Formula Dispenser: LotCow Portable Powder Dispenser
• Best Travel Cup: Munchkin Miracle 360 Trainer Sippy Cup  
• Best Snack Container: Bentgo Kids Chill Lunch Box

Strollers and Carriers

• Best Baby Wrap: KeaBabies Baby Wrap Carrier 
• Best Baby Carrier: Ergobaby 360 Cool Air Mesh Carrier  
• Best Lightweight Stroller: Babyzen YoYo2 Stroller

Accessories

• Best Breastfeeding Cover: Copper Pearl Multi-use Nursing Cover
• Best Travel Blanket: Everyday Kids Car Seat Blanket
• Best Changing Pad: Kopi Baby Portable Diaper Changing Pad
• Best Packing Cubes: Remobia Hicol TSA-approved Diaper Bag Organizer Set  
• Best Sunscreen: Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Mineral Sunscreen

Getting a baby to sleep can be hard enough at home, let alone on a noisy airplane. If I have just one tip, it’s to enquire well in advance about booking a baby bassinet. If they can’t be reserved, arrive early enough at the airport to give yourself a good chance of being allocated one. For long-haul flights, paying for a separate seat to use with your car seat is another option, although Dr. Prevatt advises that babies should not sleep in an upright position for more than a few hours since it can affect their oxygen levels. When it comes to entertainment, opt for noise-free, mess-free toys without too many pieces to potentially lose.

Best Infant Headphones

Alpine muffy noise reduction earmuffs.

Both my children loved the sound of the airplane engine and at night, its low vibration worked just as effectively as a sound machine for getting them to sleep. However, if your baby needs a quiet environment to drift off or if you’d like to avoid overstimulation while waiting to board in the bright and busy airport, infant headphones are a good idea. 

These ones from Alpine Muffy are designed to protect the sensitive hearing of little ones up to 36 months old. I love that the extra soft, adjustable headband is made from non-slip elastic to avoid exerting pressure on Baby’s delicate fontanelle, and that they’re proven to reduce noise to just 23 decibels. They’re super light, easy to clean, and come in a convenient travel pouch with a choice of colors ranging from Olive Green to Pink.

Best Inflatable Bed

Flyaway kids bed.

I hesitated including this category because most airlines allow children under two to fly at a significantly discounted rate if they sit on their parent’s lap. For this reason, purchasing an extra seat just so you can use an inflatable bed may seem excessive. But, for long flights when baby bassinets can’t be booked in advance, having a guaranteed place to sleep may well be worth it. 

Inflatable beds are not allowed by every airline, and those that do permit them often accept certain brands only. I love the Flyaway Kids Bed because it takes the guesswork out of your purchase, with a full list of approved and at-the-stewardess’-discretion airlines on its website. It inflates relatively quietly in just 90 seconds to create a full, secure bed that serves the dual purpose of preventing toys rolling onto the floor. It’s relatively compact by travel bed standards but will still take up about three pounds of your precious carry-on allowance.

Best Teething Toy

Lamaze mortimer the moose clip & go.

Traveling with a baby is one thing. Traveling with a teething baby is a whole different ball game. You’ll want to pack teething gel and possibly (if recommended by your doctor), some infant Tylenol. A toy with chewable elements for soothing sore gums is another lifesaver, both for your baby and your fellow passengers. 

When I took my daughter on a 11-hour flight at 18 months, she was cutting several teeth simultaneously. The Mortimer the Moose Clip & Go from Lamaze was her go-to comforter. She loved chewing on his textured, easy-to-clean antlers and tail rings, while his brightly colored crinkling and jingling hooves helped provide distraction from her discomfort. When she finally drifted off, multi-use Mortimer also doubled as a plushy for cuddling.

First 100 Words

A tray table is key to many methods of entertaining a wide-awake baby, whether you’re helping them play with stickers and stacking toys or using it as a tablet stand. Takeoff and landing can therefore be tricky — not only does the tray table have to be stowed, but this is the time babies are most likely to be affected by changes in cabin pressure and most in need of distraction.

Books are a great option during these times: they’re mess- and noise-free, have no moving parts to roll away while the seatbelt signs are on, and are easy to grab before stowing your bag in the overhead bin. My kids loved Roger Priddy’s First 100 Words long before they were able to talk. It’s got big, bright, colorful images of familiar items ranging from pets to food and more than 35 flaps for keeping baby engaged. It’s also travel-sized with sturdy board pages.

Best Noise-Free Toy

The first years stack up cup toys.

The first time I flew with a baby, one of my greatest sources of anxiety was disturbing or upsetting other passengers. I quickly learned that you can’t always control how much noise your baby makes; but you can make sure their toys are quiet. If they’re interactive and simple enough for the baby to use with minimal assistance, all the better. 

Stacking cups punch way above their weight in this category. My kids loved this simple set from The First Years. Both of them could be entertained for an amazing amount of time by nesting the cups and taking them apart again, using them to build towers, or playing hide-and-seek with some small object placed underneath them. A sturdy clip keeps the cups neatly together and when you reach your destination, small holes transform them into fun beach or bath toys.

Best Tablet

Amazon fire 7 kids edition tablet.

In an ideal world, we’d be able to keep our little ones entertained without resorting to screen time. But trust me, if there’s ever a time and place to relax the rules, a couple of hours into a long-haul flight is it. When all else fails or I simply need a break, I let Paw Patrol (in my daughter’s case) or Thomas the Tank Engine (in my son’s) take over. 

The Amazon Fire 7 Kids Tablet is the smallest and most portable of Amazon’s tablets made especially for kids. It comes in a virtually indestructible kid-proof case with a built-in stand for your airplane tray table. A Parent Dashboard allows you to filter age-appropriate content and purchases. It also includes a subscription to Amazon Kids+. Choose 16 or 32 GB of storage and relax knowing that for the first two years, any device that breaks will be replaced free of charge.

As Dr. Prevatt points out, the low level of humidity on board makes it especially important to keep your baby hydrated. Remember that breast milk, formula, and baby food are exempt from standard liquid limitations . Sharpe confirms that cabin crew will never impose restrictions on breastfeeding at any stage of the flight unless there’s an emergency. And flight attendants can always provide warm water for heating bottles, although it’s best to avoid asking during busy meal services. Consider investing in a portable warmer for full independence. Finally, snacks are great for both sustenance and entertainment.

Best Portable Bottle Warmer

Tommee tippee travel baby bottle warmer.

 Amazon

Whatever stage your baby’s at and whether they take formula, bottled breast milk, cow’s milk, or even puréed food in a jar or pouch, it’s likely they prefer their food served at body temperature. This isn’t as simple to achieve on a plane as it is at home, because the commercial convection ovens used to heat adult meals are impractical for warming baby food. 

This is where the beautifully simple Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Portable Bottle Warmer comes in. It doesn’t require electricity or any other external heating source — instead, it consists of an insulated, stainless steel flask with a leak-proof lid and sturdy plastic sheath. Simply pour boiling water from the flask into the upturned sheath and sit your bottle or pouch inside to warm up. The warmer fits compactly into your bag and can be refilled as needed by the cabin crew.

Best Formula Dispenser

Lotcow portable powder dispenser.

Flying with a formula-fed baby can seem daunting, simply because of the extra time and effort required to get your crying child what they need as quickly as possible. The key to minimizing stress for everyone is advance preparation. Instead of bringing your regular formula tub with you and attempting to measure out powder in the cramped confines of your seat, use a portable powder dispenser like this one from LotCow. 

Made from BPA-free plastic, the dispenser consists of four separate moisture-proof and leak-free containers that stack together to create a conveniently packable cylinder measuring roughly seven by three inches. Each one holds about two ounces of milk powder that can be tipped into baby's bottle in seconds. On shorter flights, you could even use some of the layers for storing snacks.

Best Travel Cup

Munchkin miracle 360 trainer cup.

Starting at six months, babies should be offered a drink of water with every meal. This is especially important on a flight, where low humidity levels can cause dehydration even in adults. Some children master the art of drinking out of a proper cup quicker than others, but if yours (like mine) ends up soaked every time, you’ll want a sippy cup for travel.

I loved the Munchkin Miracle 360 Trainer Sippy Cup so much the first time around that I sought it out for my second child even after moving countries. First, it’s truly leak-free, with a soft plastic valve that fits all the way over the top. It’s also spoutless, which means babies can drink from anywhere around the rim in a way that protects their dental health and encourages normal muscle development. The handles fit little hands perfectly and it’s easy to clean on the go.

Best Snack Container

Bentgo kids chill lunch box.

If your baby is old enough for solid foods, there’s good news. Packing a snack box not only ensures they’ll be full even if they don’t like whatever baby meal is served on the flight; it’s also one of the very best ways to keep them entertained. Bento boxes help with this by providing spaces for lots of different foods for maximum interest. 

The Bentgo Kids Chill Lunch Box stands out for its quality construction, leak-proof clip-and-seal design, and choice of bright, baby-friendly colors. It offers four compartments of varying sizes for everything from cereal to fruit pieces or sandwich fingers and (best of all), an optional, built-in ice pack that fits underneath the food tray to keep contents fresh and safe to eat even after hours in the air. When you get to your destination, it’s dishwasher and microwave safe.

Before you travel, it’s important to decide how you’ll be transporting baby through the airport. It’s often a long walk, sometimes with connecting buses or trains, so keeping your little one safely secured and supported is crucial. A baby carrier is a great option for navigating crowds with minimal fuss while keeping your hands free. You can also take your stroller all the way to the airplane door. If you plan on doing this, Sharpe recommends investing in one that fits into the overhead bin rather than having it checked to avoid unnecessary delays at the other end. Alternatively, she says, the Doona X stroller doubles as a car seat that can be used on board.

Best Baby Wrap

Keababies baby wrap carrier.

My daughter was born in South Africa, where wraps like the KeaBabies Original Wrap Carrier are one of the most popular and traditional methods for hands-free baby carrying. Although it took me a few tries to perfect the art of tying the wrap correctly (definitely something to master before you fly), she loved its womb-like closeness. It’s great not only for getting babies from point A to B in the airport, but also as a way of comforting them or getting them to sleep onboard. 

Consisting of a single length of stretchy, sturdy fabric, the KeaBabies wrap offers just the right amount of elasticity to hold and support your baby securely, while distributing weight evenly to minimize strain on your back and shoulders. It’s one-size-fits-all can be worn by mom or dad with zero adjustment, is safe from birth, and packs away compactly when not in use.

Best Baby Carrier

Ergobaby 360 cool air mesh carrier.

Although wraps like the KeaBabies one are technically suitable for children up to 36 months of age, I found that both of my kids were too heavy for me to carry in this way by the time they were around nine months old. The natural next step is a soft carrier like the ergobaby 360 Cool Air Mesh Carrier, which is designed for use from 4 to 48 months (up to 45 pounds.) 

The ergobaby 360 stands out for its award-winning design, which allows you to switch between four comfortable and safe carrying positions: on the front of your body facing inwards, on the front facing outwards, on the hip, or on your back. When forward facing, the baby’s hips are held in the “M” position to protect against hip dysplasia. Breathable mesh keeps them from overheating, while padded shoulder straps and a wide waistband save your back and shoulders.

Best Lightweight Stroller

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller.

Although you can use any stroller all the way up to the airplane door and then have it checked separately, the Babyzen YoYo2 with a newborn pack (suitable for babies zero to six months) is one of the few that folds compactly enough to fit in the overhead bin. It can be folded and unfolded with one hand, which is a lifesaver when trying to juggle your baby, diaper bag, and passport simultaneously.

It also tips the scales at just 14.5 pounds. This lightweight compactness makes it ideal not only for air travel, but also for exploring your destination because it fits just as easily into an overhead bin or taxi trunk. The stroller includes a five-point harness, a comfortable one-inch, lie-flat mattress, and UPF 50+, water-repellent fabric. You can also attach the YoYo2 bassinet and later, the six+ color pack for older babies over six months.

We’ve covered the main areas of traveling with a baby, but what about the easy-to-overlook accessories that make all the difference? These range from breastfeeding covers (Sharpe recommends researching whether your destination has any modesty laws that may make this a particularly important choice) to sunscreen (Dr. Prevatt points out that children under the age of 15 are especially at risk of skin cancer if allowed to burn which can occur while waiting on a hot airport concourse.) Look for accessories that make life easier by simplifying essential tasks, whether that’s changing a diaper or finding what you need in your carry-on.

Best Breastfeeding Cover

Copper pearl cover canopy.

While I’m a firm believer that women should be able to breastfeed wherever they like without having to cover up, there is something especially intimidating about doing so in a confined space surrounded by perfect strangers. The Copper Pearl Multi-use Cover is made from lightweight, stretchy, and breathable fabric that provides full coverage without feeling restrictive for either of you. 

I particularly like that the opening is wide enough to allow you to easily view your baby (my son refused to drink if he couldn’t make eye contact) and check for a correct latch. The cover also comes in super handy on vacation as a car seat or stroller cover, takes up virtually no space in your diaper bag, and comes in an endless choice of gorgeous watercolor-style prints.

Best Travel Blanket

Everyday kids car seat blanket.

If your baby already has a favorite blanket, then that’s the one to take on your flight. But if, like mine, they’re ambivalent about which blanket they use as long as they’re warm, the plush fleece Everyday Kids Car Seat Blanket could be a useful option especially if you plan on bringing your car seat on board or if you end up with a bassinet that has a five-point harness. Safety features for the latter vary, but I’ve flown with at least one airline where this was the case.

The blanket has universally spaced notches that align with most five-point harness straps, keeping it secured to the car seat or bassinet so that it doesn’t end up on the less-than-sterile airplane floor every time Baby kicks. The swaddling style is easily unwrapped, too, so that you can prove your little one is securely fastened during turbulence without waking them up.

Best Changing Pad

Kopi baby portable changing pad.

While you’re definitely going to need your regular, full-size baby bag to carry everything you need for the flight, a portable changing pad like this wipe-clean one from Kopi Baby makes all the difference when it comes to the Olympic sport that is attempting to change a diaper in the tight confines of an airplane bathroom. 

When folded away, it measures just 7.5 x 11.5 inches and resembles a regular clutch bag. But when opened up, it reveals a full-size changing mat with a built-in pillow and three mesh pockets with enough space to store up to five diapers as well as other essentials from rash cream to diaper bags. I especially love the smart wet wipes pocket, which features an opening that dispenses wipes for one-handed convenience, even when the pad is folded.

Best Packing Cubes

Remobia hicol tsa-approved diaper bag organizer set.

Organization is the key to minimizing stress when flying with small children. After all, there’s nothing worse than trying to juggle a screaming baby while rooting around helplessly in your bag for an item that has somehow disappeared just as you need it. Enter the Remobia Hicol Organizer Set, a collection of five packing cubes designed especially for parents. 

They’re made from sturdy, transparent TPU plastic, making it easy to see at a glance what they contain. The various sizes lend themselves to categorizing your diaper bag contents (one for spare clothes, one for snacks, one for medicines and so on), while the fact that they’re both waterproof and easy to wipe clean prevents unnecessary mess. They’re TSA-approved for convenience through security and nest inside each other neatly when not in use.

Best Sunscreen

Aveeno baby sunscreen.

Aveeno 

Sunscreen may seem like an odd item to include on this list since there’s no chance of sunburn in the airport or on the plane. However, many airports in hot countries lack covered walkways from the plane to the terminal. It’s also easy to forget to apply sunscreen once you leave the airport in the chaos of clearing customs and collecting luggage. 

Additionally, bringing sunscreen with you guarantees access to a brand you know and trust, and can test on your baby’s skin for sensitivity prior to travel. I recommend packing a travel-sized mineral sunscreen like this one from Aveeno for on-the-go protection. At three fluid ounces, it complies with TSA restrictions and is especially formulated for babies (doctor’s advice recommended for those under six months), using naturally sourced zinc oxide to provide hypoallergenic, fragrance-free SPF 50 protection.

Try not to overpack

There are a lot of items on this list, and many more besides that will be part of your everyday baby routine — from bottles and pacifiers to burp cloths and diaper cream. Remember that you don’t need all of them. Think carefully about which are most relevant for your baby, your flight (duration, time of day, and number of layovers), and unique situation (are you flying alone, or will you have someone to help juggle baby and luggage?) Then, try to limit your packing to the things that you’re most likely to actually use, because flying with a baby is overwhelming enough without having to keep track of or carry a ton of extra gear. 

Consider the flight time

When packing your diaper bag, tailor its contents according to the length of your flight, making sure you have enough diapers, wipes, milk, and snacks to last the duration with a few extras in case of any unexpected delays. If it’s a long flight, prioritize snacks that don’t need refrigeration and consider ways to increase the entertainment value of each one (e.g., individually wrapping some items so they’re fun to open together or cutting sandwiches into quirky shapes).

When booking your flight, bear in mind departure and arrival times. If you can, choose an overnight flight or one that coincides with your baby’s longest sleep period (I know these are not always the same thing!). And remember: when flying with a baby, if you can stretch your budget to get the most direct route, the extra expense will be well worth it. Layovers shouldn't be too long or so short that you end up having to run to catch the next flight. Minimize stress, wherever possible. 

Prepare for the unexpected

While it’s important to try and resist the temptation to pack everything including the kitchen sink (see our first tip), you should also prepare for a few worst-case scenarios. In my personal experience, these could range from being vomited on mid-flight (pack an extra shirt for yourself and at least two spare changes for baby) to your perfectly well infant suddenly developing a high fever. Dr. Prevatt suggests packing a basic first aid kit with essentials your baby might need since airline medical kits are minimal and not packed with infants in mind. 

She also frequently hears from breastfeeding moms who haven’t wanted to wake their sleeping baby to feed and therefore end up struggling with engorgement. She recommends learning to express by hand in advance or, if you have space in your carry-on, packing a portable breast pump. Meanwhile, Sharpe says that she often sees parents struggle due to not packing enough snacks and activities. If there’s one thing she’d recommend leaving at home to make space for these essentials, it’s a bulky inflatable baby bed.

According to Dr. Prevatt, it’s theoretically safe for a healthy baby to fly from the first day of life. However, most airlines only allow babies to fly from seven days old because it takes a week for the ductus to close (completing the transition from a fetal to an infant heart). If there is anything wrong with a baby’s heart, it most often presents in the first seven days of life. Up in the ai and, away from medical care is not where you want to be should any such issue arise. Premature babies or those with known conditions may require medical clearance to fly.  

Dr. Prevatt notes that the greatest risk of flying with a newborn is to the mother rather than the baby. To avoid postpartum deep-vein thrombosis (DVT), women who have given birth in the last two months should book an aisle seat so that they can perform leg exercises and walk freely around the cabin. Having your baby on your lap puts extra compression on your thigh veins, so take turns with your travel partner if you can. And even if you’re not breastfeeding, abstain from alcohol and caffeine and be sure to drink extra water since dehydration increases risk of DVT.

Babies under two years old are allowed to fly on your lap or in an approved infant car seat. Dr. Prevatt points out that although there have been very few reported injuries caused by an infant sitting on their caregiver’s lap rather than in a car seat, it is still recommended to use a car seat for safety since it is a moving vessel. Policies vary slightly between airlines ( British Airways only accepts forward-facing seats, whereas American Airlines allows seats to be installed in the direction appropriate for the size of the child, for example) so check with yours in advance.  

You should remember that to guarantee being able to use an infant car seat onboard, you must book a separate seat for your baby — a much more expensive option than having them on your lap. Dr. Prevatt also notes that small babies must not stay in an upright position for more than a few hours since it can affect their breathing — so on longer flights, you’ll need to be prepared to cradle them in your arms for hours at a time or use an airline bassinet.  

A bassinet is an absolute godsend, especially on an extended or overnight flight. My daughter spent most of her first 11-hour flight sleeping peacefully in hers. However, the availability of these bassinets is limited because they can only be fixed to the bulkhead. And while some airlines allow you to book them in advance, others assign them on a first come, first served basis which means that you should always be prepared for the possibility of not getting one.

My top tip? Attempt to book a baby bassinet. If that’s not possible, turn up to the airport early in the hope of being assigned one. If that fails, ask if there happens to be an available seat that you can use for your car seat (you should bring one anyway, since a child must still be restrained on car rides in foreign countries and relying on your own is safer than renting). If there is, you may be allowed to use it without having to pay extra. If not, the car seat will be checked for you, typically free of charge, and baby can sleep in your arms.

There are pros and cons to both approaches. A stroller is useful because you can stash items in the basket, it saves you from having to carry your baby (especially great if they fall asleep while waiting at the airport), and you can use it all the way up to the airplane door. Here, Sharpe says, it will be loaded into the plane’s cargo hold by the ground handling agents. In theory, it should be waiting for you near the door when you disembark at the other end, too. 

However, Sharpe points out that occasionally there can be a miscommunication and strollers end up in the oversized baggage pickup area or at the luggage carousel with the other bags, leaving you stranded with no easy way to carry Baby through the airport. I have also waited for quite a while to have the stroller delivered to the correct place, which can be very stressful if you have a short transfer window. To limit the chances of this happening, Sharpe recommends having check-in staff put a note on your booking and re-iterating this to the flight attendants and ground staff on both ends of your journey. Alternatively, investing in a stroller that fits into the overhead compartment eliminates these issues completely. 

Having experienced my fair share of stroller delivery issues, I would recommend checking your stroller in with your luggage for use at your destination and using a baby carrier to transport your little one from check-in to airplane. The many pros outweigh the one obvious con (having to bear their weight all the way), and include being much more mobile in a crowded airport, having both hands free for your other luggage and passport checks, and giving Baby the comfort of being held close to your body in an unfamiliar and overwhelming new environment.

Sharpe says that parents are often unaware that normal liquid restrictions do not apply to breast milk and formula. TSA states that both of these substances are considered medically necessary liquid and put no restriction on the amount you can bring on board. This applies to juice, too. You just need to remove these items from your carry-on bag to be screened separately at security. However, be aware that TSA rules only apply in the United States. Sharpe points out that at Heathrow Airport in London, for example, you may bring aboard up to 2 liters each of baby food and milk as long as it’s stored in a clear, transparent container or bag. Check airport and airline rules carefully before flying to avoid any confusion.

The change in cabin pressure during take-off and landing affects babies’ ears in the same way it does adult ears — by sucking the eardrum backwards or forwards. However, Dr. Prevatt says that this is more painful for babies (and in fact, 20 percent of children experience a pain so severe that an adult would not be able to put up with it) because the Eustachian tubes that connect the mouth and ears are so much smaller.  

This makes it much harder for babies to equalize effectively, a problem compounded by the fact that they can’t understand how to do so. Swallowing is the easiest way to help them equalize. Therefore, it’s important to breast or bottle feed during take-off and landing. I recommend bringing a pacifier as well in case your baby refuses to drink in the strange environment that is a noisy, cramped airline seat. As a breastfeeding mom, I can confirm that getting a good latch can be tricky because both you and your baby will have to wear a seat belt during take-off and landing, making cradling them in the usual way a little awkward.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Jessica Macdonald has been writing about travel gear for more than 10 years and has flown with both of her children many times since they were four months old. She sought the expert opinion of Dr. Natalie Prevatt, a children's travel medicine consultant and the lead clinician at the Childrenstraveldoc , which offers remote telephone consultations to prepare pregnant mothers and children for travel. Samantha Sharpe also provided invaluable insight from her perspective as a former nanny and flight attendant who previously worked for Qatar Airways and now flies for one of the UK’s largest airlines.

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What to know about going through TSA with baby food

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Bringing your little one along for a trip is a great way to bond and make lifelong family memories. Flying with your baby doesn’t need to be intimidating or stressful, and neither does getting their food through TSA. Your baby’s food is the most important thing you’ll travel with, and you’re permitted to bring frozen and bottled breast milk, as well as juices and formula for your baby on planes. All you need to do is plan ahead and budget more time at the airport! 

TSA policies regarding baby food

TSA allows baby food in your carry-on bag — don’t leave your child’s food in your checked bag and risk it all getting lost in transit! Pack your formula, breast milk or juice in TSA pouches . When you arrive at TSA with your carry-on full of baby food, be sure to inform the TSA agent that you are traveling with the food before you begin your screening process. TSA will ask you to take these items out of your bag and will screen them through a separate process. 

All formula, breast milk and juice will go through an X-ray screening process, the same one as your checked bag. TSA may need to test your liquids for explosives or concealed prohibited items and may request you to open them. If you don’t want your baby food open, you can deny this request — additional steps will be taken by TSA to ensure they’re safe for travel without opening. 

Formula, breast milk and juices are an exemption under the 3-1-1 liquids rule for flying. This means that you can bring them in quantities greater than 3.4 oz, which is not the case for most other liquids going through TSA . Additionally, TSA allows ice packs and freezer packs for the purpose of freezing baby food — you can line a cooler bag with these to keep your baby food fresh! If you’re flying with a toddler , you can bring gel or liquid-filled teethers, canned, jarred, and processed food along in carry-on baggage.

Tips for getting baby food through TSA without hassle 

Make traveling with baby food quick and easy! 

Determine how much food you’ll need to travel with in advance

No one knows your baby better than you — you know when your baby needs to eat! Before your trip, think about how long you’ll be gone, how many times and the amount your baby eats per day. Plan to bring at least this much food for your trip!

For parents that pump, consider pre-pumping and freezing some breast milk, and bring your pump with you to supplement the rest. For parents using formula, pre-package your baby’s food in TSA baby food pouches and store them away for the trip. 

Pack your baby food well & keep it with you

TSA allows ice packs, freezer packs and the like for baby food — take advantage of this! Make sure you’re packing your cooler bag tightly and putting as many of these as you need inside to keep your food frozen. 

Since baby food is allowed in your carry-on bag, be sure to keep your eye on it at all times. Don’t let it leave your sight when it’s going through TSA or in the airport in general — your baby needs it and unless you’re on a very short flight, they’ll probably need to eat on the plane.

Insider Tip: Some airlines, like Southwest , allow babies and young toddlers to travel for free! Always be sure to check if there’s a child fare when booking your flight.

Give yourself extra time to go through security

Because of all the policies TSA has surrounding baby food, it’s important to give yourself extra time when traveling with it. You might need to jump through a few hoops to get it past TSA, and all food needs to be separately screened. This applies especially if you plan to bring a large amount of baby food on the plane. It’s better to be safe than sorry in this case — make sure you get your baby food through security and make your flight with plenty of time to spare! 

FAQ for traveling with baby food

Can you bring squeezable baby food on a plane.

Yes! Squeezable pouches, jars or cans of baby food are all allowed on the plane and adhere to the same rules as breast milk, juices and formula. You can even bring gel or liquid-filled teething rings and toys for your little ones on the plane! 

How much baby food can you take on a plane? 

TSA allows baby food in “reasonable quantities” on planes. Basically, this means there is no strict cut-off for how much food you can bring on the plane. Bring only the amount of baby food your baby needs for the trip and you shouldn’t have any problems getting through security. 

Can I bring water for baby formula on a plane?

Yes! Again, water for baby formula and babies is permitted by TSA in “reasonable quantities” in carry-on bags. The water for your baby formula will have to undergo the same screening process as the other foods you bring for your baby, but you shouldn’t have any trouble getting it onto the plane. 

Bottom line

Whether you’re solo parent traveling or tag-teaming it with little ones, getting your baby’s food through TSA can be a stress-free and hassle-free process. TSA allows formula, breast milk and juices in quantities that exceed 3.4oz, which is the typical rule, and you’ll be able to bring stocked cooler bags as well if needed. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to get through security and have the food screened properly, plus keep it in your carry-on bag to make sure you have it with you whenever your baby needs it. After that, all that’s left to do is enjoy your trip with a happy and full baby!

Alexandra Maloney

Contributor

Alexandra Maloney is a contributor for Million Mile Secrets where she covers points and miles, credit cards, airlines, hotels, and general travel. She's worked as a writing consultant for the University of Richmond and is a features writer for The Collegian UR.

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How to Pack Baby Food for Travel

When I’m preparing for a trip, figuring out how to keep my baby well-fed and content is always at the forefront of my mind. It’s quite different from packing just for myself. I initially thought managing feeding times while on the move would be a major challenge, but I’ve come to realize it’s all about clever packing and a bit of planning ahead.

In this guide, I’m eager to share with you everything I’ve picked up about packing baby food for travel. Whether we’re flying high or cruising on the road, I’ve stumbled upon some handy tips and tricks to keep those little tummies satisfied, ensuring our travels are as smooth as possible.

Understanding Baby’s Needs

When it comes to traveling with my little one, keeping a slice of our home routine intact is pivotal. It’s not just about the meals; it’s about providing a sense of comfort and predictability for my baby, even when we’re far from the familiar surroundings of home.

Feeding Schedule Consistency

Maintaining regular meal times is a lifesaver. I quickly realized that a content baby is one who knows what’s coming next. So, despite the shifting sceneries and time zones, sticking to our standard feeding timetable as much as possible became my mission.

Nutritional Balance

While on the move, it’s tempting to opt for the quickest meal solutions. However, ensuring my baby receives a balanced diet remains a priority. With some forward-thinking, I’ve managed to prepare and pack meals that are both handy and wholesome, closely mirroring what we’d have at home.

Anticipating Needs and Staying Hydrated

One of my top travel tips is to anticipate my baby’s needs before they become apparent. Having small, readily accessible portions of their preferred snacks and meals makes all the difference. And, keeping my baby hydrated is essential, particularly during travels. I always carry a refillable water bottle, making sure my baby stays hydrated wherever our adventures take us.

Types of Baby Food for Travel

When planning our trips , deciding what food to bring for my baby always takes center stage. I’ve found that having a variety of options is key to a smooth trip, especially when dealing with the unpredictability of travel schedules.

Store-Bought vs. Homemade

I’ve leaned on store-bought baby food for its convenience, especially those handy pouches and jars that fit so easily into my bag. But, I also see the charm in homemade purees and mashes. They require a bit more effort to prepare and pack, but knowing exactly what’s in my baby’s food gives me peace of mind.

Formula Feeding on the Go

For parents relying on formula, travel presents its own set of challenges and solutions. Powdered formula is a go-to due to its lightweight and long shelf life, making it perfect for longer trips . Ready-to-feed formula, while heavier, cuts down on prep time, a blessing when you’re in a pinch.

Snacks and Finger Foods

As my little one grew, introducing finger foods and snacks into the mix became a game. It’s all about balance — offering nutritious options that also keep my baby engaged and happy, especially during longer stretches of travel.

Choosing the right types of food for travel comes down to balancing convenience, nutritional value, and what your baby prefers. I always aim for a mix that keeps my little one satisfied and eager for their next meal, even when we’re miles away from our kitchen.

Packing Essentials for Baby Food

Packing baby food for travel isn’t just about throwing things into a bag. It’s an art form, or at least that’s what I’ve come to believe. Each item has its place, and every choice is about making mealtime on the move as smooth as possible.

The Right Containers

Finding the perfect containers was a game-changer for me. I needed something leak-proof to avoid any mid-journey spills, BPA-free for safety, and with compartments to keep different foods separate and organized. It took some trial and error, but I’ve built up a collection of containers that tick all these boxes.

Keeping Things Fresh

Next up, keeping the food fresh. For this, insulated bags and ice packs became my best friends. They’re especially handy for longer trips where access to a fridge might not be guaranteed. It’s all about maintaining the right temperature to keep homemade purees and cut fruits fresh until it’s time to eat.

Utensils and Cleaning Up

Then there’s the feeding gear. I never leave without a couple of baby spoons, a portable bib, and a few bowls. And for cleanup? A pack of wet wipes, a small bottle of dish soap, and a portable bottle brush have saved me from many sticky situations.

Travel Considerations

Navigating travel with a baby in tow means thinking ahead and planning for all sorts of scenarios. Every trip is a learning curve, showing me new tricks to make the journey smoother for both of us.

Choosing the Right Mode of Travel

Whether we’re flying, driving, or taking the train, each mode of travel comes with its own set of challenges and perks. Flying means navigating airport security with baby food and gear, but it’s often faster. Road trips offer more control over stops and meal times, yet they require more entertainment to keep my baby happy. Trains strike a nice balance with their gentle motion and spacious seating, but you’re on their schedule, not yours.

Duration and Destination

The length of the trip and our destination heavily influence what I pack. Short jaunts mean I can pack lighter , bringing just enough to get us through. Longer trips require more food, backup options, and a keen eye on variety to keep things interesting for my little one. And the destination matters too; heading somewhere with easy access to baby-friendly foods and amenities means I can pack a bit lighter.

Staying Flexible

Above all, I’ve learned the importance of flexibility. Delays happen, plans change, and babies can be unpredictably picky. Having a variety of food options, backup plans, and a relaxed attitude has been my saving grace more times than I can count. It’s about making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.

Food Safety and Hygiene

Keeping my baby’s food safe and clean while traveling is something I take seriously. It’s not just about avoiding messes; it’s about ensuring my little one’s health and well-being, no matter where we are.

Temperature Matters

I learned early on that the right temperature is crucial, especially for homemade baby food and milk. A good set of ice packs and an insulated bag are essential for keeping cold things cold. And for those times when I need to warm up a bottle or food, I’ve found some handy portable warmers that do the trick without needing a power outlet.

Clean Feeding Tools

Then there’s the matter of keeping everything clean. At home, I have my whole setup for washing and sterilizing feeding tools, but on the road, I’ve had to get creative. I always pack a mini cleaning kit including:

• Small bottle of dish soap for thorough cleaning.
• Collapsible basin, handy for washing up in any location.
• Travel-sized bottle brush for scrubbing bottles and utensils.
• Pack of sanitizing wipes for quick and easy cleanups on the go.

Being Prepared for Anything

Despite my best efforts, sometimes things don’t go as planned. A spill, a forgotten item, or a sudden change in my baby’s appetite can throw a wrench in my well-laid plans. That’s why I always pack extra of everything: extra food, extra spoons, even extra bibs. It might seem like overkill, but when you’re miles from home and your baby’s lunch ends up on the floor instead of in their belly, you’ll be glad for that backup pouch of puree you stashed away.

Nutrition and Variety

When we’re out exploring new places, I want to make sure my baby isn’t just full, but also getting all the good stuff they need to grow strong and healthy. This means keeping an eye on nutrition and mixing things up to keep meal times interesting.

Keeping It Balanced

I aim for a balance in my baby’s diet, just like we do at home. This means a good mix of fruits, veggies, grains, and proteins. I’ve gotten pretty good at packing a variety of purees and finger foods that cover all the bases, nutritionally speaking. And when I opt for store-bought options, I read labels carefully to ensure they’re meeting my baby’s dietary needs.

Introducing New Tastes

Traveling is a great opportunity to introduce my little one to new tastes. Of course, I do this cautiously, sticking to one new food at a time to watch for any adverse reactions. It’s amazing to see their reactions to new flavors, and I love that travel can be part of their food exploration journey.

Snack Time is Fun Time

Snacks aren’t just fillers between meals; they’re an opportunity for nutrition and fun. I pack a variety of snacks, from crunchy veggie sticks to soft fruit pieces and whole-grain crackers. It’s all about offering options that are not only healthy but also engaging for my baby, keeping them content and occupied, especially during those longer stretches of travel.

Practical Tips

Over time, I’ve picked up a handful of practical tips that have made traveling with baby food much easier. These little nuggets of wisdom help keep meal times running smoothly, even when we’re far from the comforts of home.

I can’t stress enough the importance of planning. Before any trip, I spend some time thinking about how many meals we’ll need, what kind of food to bring, and how I’ll store and serve it. This might involve cooking and freezing some batches of homemade puree or mapping out where I can buy baby food on the road.

Feeding on the Go

Feeding my baby while we’re out and about has its own set of challenges. I’ve learned to always have a ready-to-eat meal or snack on hand for those unpredictable moments. Portable, no-mess options like pouches or pre-measured formula powder can be lifesavers during a flight delay or unexpected traffic.

Cleaning Shortcuts

Without access to my full kitchen, I’ve had to find shortcuts for cleaning feeding supplies. In addition to the mini cleaning kit I mentioned earlier, I also rely heavily on pre-sterilized, disposable feeding items for those times when thorough washing isn’t possible. It’s all about finding a balance between convenience and maintaining cleanliness.

Emergency Alternatives

Even with the best-laid plans, I’ve learned to expect the unexpected. That’s why I always have a backup plan for feeding my baby, especially when we’re on the move.

Extra Supplies

I pack extra of everything: more food pouches, an additional box of formula, and even spare spoons and bibs. These extras aren’t just for convenience; they’re my safety net. If a flight gets delayed or we’re stuck in traffic longer than anticipated, I know I’ve got enough to keep my little one happy and fed.

Local Stores and Brands

Before we set off, I do a bit of research on our destination, especially looking into local stores where I might find baby food. I also make a note of any local baby food brands that might be a good fit for my baby. This way, if I run out of the food I’ve brought, or if something goes awry, I know exactly where to head to restock.

Simple Recipes

I’ve also memorized a few simple, no-cook baby food recipes that I can whip up almost anywhere. All I need are a couple of basic ingredients that are easy to find, like bananas or avocados, and I can prepare a quick meal. This has come in handy more times than I can count, especially in places where ready-made baby food isn’t readily available.

Air Travel with Baby Food: Understanding TSA Guidelines

Flying with a baby brings its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to mealtime. Thankfully, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific guidelines that make traveling with baby food, formula, breast milk, and juice less stressful.

TSA Regulations on Baby Food and Liquids

The TSA allows parents and guardians to bring more than the standard 3.4 ounces of liquids if it’s for the baby. This includes purees, formula, breast milk, water for mixing formula, and juice in “reasonable quantities for the flight.” It’s a relief, knowing I can pack enough to keep my little one fed and happy without having to squeeze everything into tiny containers .

Screening Process for Baby Food

During the security screening , I always declare all the baby food and liquids I’m carrying to the TSA officer. These items may need to go through additional screening, which could include opening the containers. I’ve found that being upfront and cooperative with the TSA staff makes this process smoother. Sometimes, they might also ask to screen my hands, which is a standard procedure when carrying baby food.

Tips for a Hassle-Free Security Check

To ensure a smooth passage through security, I keep all baby food and liquids easily accessible in my carry-on. This way, I can quickly present them for inspection without holding up the line. I also pack a little extra in case of delays, but I make sure it’s a reasonable amount that the TSA won’t question.

Understanding and following these TSA guidelines has significantly eased my stress about flying with my baby. It’s all about preparation and communication, ensuring that my baby’s needs and the security requirements are met, making our flying experience as smooth as possible.

Packing Checklist for Baby Food Travel

Creating a checklist has been incredibly helpful for me. It keeps me organized and ensures I don’t overlook anything vital, reducing travel anxiety. Here’s the essential list I’ve perfected over my travels:

Food and Feeding Essentials

• Baby Food: A balanced selection of homemade purees and convenient store-bought pouches, ensuring there’s more than enough to cover the trip and any unexpected delays.
• Formula: For formula-fed babies, ample supply of formula powder or ready-to-feed options, considering the journey’s length and a bit extra for just-in-case moments.
• Snacks: Various nutritious, baby-friendly snacks, perfect for on-the-go munching and keeping hunger at bay between meals.
• Bottles and Nipples: Enough for multiple feedings, considering the duration of the journey and potential delays, allowing for times when washing might not be an option.
• Sippy Cups: For older babies, sippy cups for water and other liquids to ensure they stay hydrated.

Feeding Tools and Accessories

• Spoons and Bowls: Baby-sized spoons and collapsible bowls that are easy to pack and clean.
• Bibs: A few waterproof or disposable bibs to keep meal times mess-free.
• Cleaning Supplies: Mini bottle of dish soap, portable bottle brush, and sanitizing wipes for quick cleanups.

Storage and Temperature Control

• Insulated Bag: To keep perishables at the right temperature.
• Ice Packs: For keeping food cool, especially useful for homemade purees or dairy products.
• Leak-proof Containers: Various sizes for storing different types of food and snacks, ensuring they stay fresh and are easy to access.

Miscellaneous

• Ziplock Bags : Handy for storing opened snacks, used utensils, or containing messes.
• Disposable Placemats : For cleaner feeding surfaces when dining out.
• First Aid Kit : Including baby-friendly remedies for common travel ailments.

This checklist has become my travel bible, ensuring I’m always prepared for meal times, no matter where our adventures take us. It’s all about having the right supplies on hand to keep feeding times smooth, safe, and enjoyable for my little one.

Traveling with baby food is all about preparation, understanding the rules, and a touch of creativity. By packing the right mix of foods, knowing airline regulations, and finding practical solutions for feeding and cleaning on the go, each journey can become a smooth experience. Whether you’re soaring in the skies or hitting the road, the focus should always be on your baby’s needs and comfort. Armed with these insights and tips, you’re well-prepared for a hassle-free adventure with your little one.

frequently asked questions

How do you manage baby food when traveling.

Managing baby food while traveling involves planning and flexibility. Pack a variety of baby food that’s easy to transport, like pouches or pre-measured formula. Use insulated bags to keep perishables fresh, and always have a cleaning kit for utensils.

How do you bring baby food on a plane?

You can bring baby food on a plane in reasonable quantities exceeding the usual liquid limits. Inform TSA officers at security, as baby food might require additional screening. Pack them in accessible parts of your carry-on for easy inspection.

How do you store baby food when going out?

Store baby food in leak-proof, insulated containers to maintain freshness. If using homemade purees, consider using ice packs in an insulated bag. For longer outings, opt for shelf-stable, store-bought options that don’t require refrigeration.

How do I keep my baby food cold while traveling?

To keep baby food cold, use insulated cooler bags with ice packs. Ensure the food is stored at the bottom of the bag, closest to the ice packs, for optimal cooling. Check the temperature regularly to ensure it stays cool.

How much baby food can I take on a plane?

There’s no specific limit to how much baby food you can take on a plane, but it should be a “reasonable quantity for the flight.” Pack what you need for the journey, plus a little extra for delays, and declare it at security.

Can I travel with baby food?

Yes, you can travel with baby food. Both homemade and store-bought options are allowed. For air travel, just be ready to declare these items at security, as they might need additional screening.

What is the 3 1 1 rule?

The 3-1-1 rule is a TSA guideline for carry-on liquids. It allows passengers to bring liquids, gels, and aerosols in travel-size containers of 3.4 ounces or less, packed in a single, clear, quart-sized bag. This rule doesn’t apply to baby food and medication.

Can I carry baby food in my hand luggage?

Yes, you can carry baby food in your hand luggage. Declare it at TSA checkpoints, as it may be subject to additional screening. There’s an exemption from the 3-1-1 liquids rule for baby food.

Can I fly with baby food pouches?

Yes, flying with baby food pouches is allowed. They’re convenient for travel and exempt from the 3-1-1 liquids rule. Just declare them at airport security, as they may need extra screening.

Can I bring baby water on a plane?

Yes, you can bring water for making baby formula on a plane. It’s exempt from the 3-1-1 rule but must be declared at TSA checkpoints for inspection. Consider using bottled water for convenience.

What snacks can babies have at the airport?

Babies can have a variety of snacks at the airport, including soft fruits, small pieces of cheese, yogurt pouches, and teething biscuits. Choose snacks that are easy to handle and not too messy.

How do you warm up baby food on a plane?

To warm up baby food on a plane, you can use a portable bottle warmer or ask a flight attendant for hot water to place the food container in for a few minutes. Always check the temperature before feeding.

How do you bottle-feed a baby on a plane?

To bottle feed a baby on a plane, bring pre-measured formula and bottled water, or pre-made formula. Use a bottle warmer or ask the flight attendant for warm water to mix the formula or heat the bottle.

I love to travel and see new places. It's so much fun to learn about different parts of the world. I've been to many places and have learned lots of tricks about how to pack my bag just right. I know how to fit everything I need in my backpack, so it's easy to carry.

I like helping others pack for their trips too. I can tell you what clothes are best to bring and how to put everything in your bag so you can find it easily. I've learned how to pack light but still have everything I need.

I share my packing tips on my blog and social media. People who like to travel find my tips really helpful. I enjoy showing others how to make traveling easier and more fun.

Traveling is not just about going to different places. It's about the fun things you do and the new friends you make. I want to help everyone have great trips and make happy memories. Come along with me, and let's have some exciting adventures together!

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How to Feed a Baby During Travel (Nursing, Bottles, Formula & Solids)

Written by Becca

Updated on April 26th, 2024

Whether feeding your baby by nursing and breastfeeding, with bottles, formula or solids, there are lots of products to help with feeding a baby on the go. See my best travel tips for your next trip!

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Table of contents

• Nursing (0-12+ months)
• Transporting refrigerated or frozen breastmilk
• Feeding breastmilk on the go
• Bottle Feeding & Formula Feeding (0-12+ months)
• Feeding solid food while traveling (6+ months)
• How to pack your baby’s feeding essentials for travel

When I first started realizing we had to figure out ways to leave home and feed our baby on the go, I was overwhelmed. Well, most parts of being a new parent are overwhelming, but when it comes to one of the most important parts of your baby’s life — their feeding — you want to get it right when you’re away from home.

Given, there are many ways to feed a baby, and for many parents, they’re combining a few of the following: nursing, bottle feeding, formula feeding and solids, as the baby becomes older. With all of these ways to feed a child, nailing it when you’re on the road, on the go and on vacation is an art.

In the following tips, I’m combining my practices in feeding my daughter with my sister’s tips, because between the two of us and our children, we have experienced all four of these ways to feed a baby. We’ve put together the handy products that have helped us set up comfortable feeding environments on the go, whether in the car, in a hotel room, in an Airbnb, on a cruise ship or on a plane.

Let’s see all the creative and proven ways to feed a baby while away from home!

Will you be feeding your baby during a flight? Don’t forget this list of the best tips for flying with an infant .

Nursing (0-12+ months)

Breastfeeding by definition doesn’t truly require many products, as the main goods are already on your body; however, there are some tips and tricks in terms of what I’ve been able to find for when I’m on the go and traveling.

Specifically for when I’m on road trips with my baby , I want to have everything ready for nursing if we need to have a feed in the car in a parking lot or rest area.

Remember, it’s legal to breastfeed anywhere (in the US: this may vary by country). In our guide for how to plan a trip to NYC with a baby , I talk about feeding our baby in a Starbucks with no problem.

Milkies Milk Saver

I started using this slim silicone “milk saver” as a way to catch drips and save milk, both at home and on the go. I started using this product during our trip to the Litchfield Hills and I’ll always have fond memories of nursing our daughter on the couch in the living room at our Airbnb.

The Milkies Milk Saver is dishwasher safe, and when I first took it out of the box (it also comes with a plastic carrying/storage case), we sanitized it in boiling water and then gave it a run in the dishwasher.

I think it’s a handy and simple product that fits great in my diaper bag, and it even can be “stood up” if you lean it against a large mug, bottle or other upright surface. I use the diaper bag from Nike, which you can read about at my Nike Diaper bag review .

For all the items I mention below that require washing, it’s crucial to bring your own dish soap. Until our most recent trip, we had always stayed in Airbnbs or hotels with kitchenettes, so there was always dish soap available. If you’re staying at a hotel with no kitchen, bring your own! I had the idea of bringing along a tiny 1.5-oz. milk vial full of dish soap from home, but I just found out that you can get Babyganics foaming dish soap for travel in a TSA-approved 100ml volume! Even better.

Travel-sized Hakka hand pump

I was introduced to the Hakka hand pump when I first gave birth to our daughter. I found out later that it comes in two sizes — 4 oz. and 5 oz. I keep the larger one at home, and I keep the smaller one in our diaper bag for when we are on the road.

The small Hakka pump can be used in two ways: first, it can also be a milk catcher, and can create suction to draw out more milk on the side from which you’re not feeding. It can also be used to pump, if you can get the hang of it (some women like to keep it on a nightstand to “comfort pump” in the middle of the night if they are feeling discomfort).

It’s small and because it’s silicone, it is slightly bendy, so it’s also easy to keep in a diaper bag or suitcase.

Medela hand pump

The Medela hand pump is something I’ve kept at the bottom of my diaper bag for travel for a while now. While it is not squishy silicone like the Hakka, its saving grace is that it can be broken down into a bout five pieces.

I’ve used this hand pump on the go if my baby refuses to take one side, and the sides feel uneven. I can use the manual pump to express a bit, and then put the milk into the bottle with the yellow Medela cover, right into a fridge or the Medela insulated carrying case. Many nursing moms consider this one of the best baby products for travel .

Disposable nursing pads

If you tend to have leaks, opt for disposable nursing pads that you don’t have to come back home with (anything for a lighter bag on the return trip, right?).

A few of these are good to keep in a diaper bag or in your toiletries bag while traveling, especially when you have a newborn and your supply is acclimating.

Ceres Chill Breastmilk Chiller

I’m not an owner of this rather revolutionary product in the world of nursing on the go, but I found out about it recently from a friend, and had to look into this one!

The Ceres Chill Reusable Storage Container is a breastmilk cooler that keeps milk at safe temperatures for 20+ hours. It also connects to most major pumps (Medela, Evenflo and more). It’s ideal for commuting, road trips and even being out at work for eight to nine hours.

It holds up to 24 ounces of milk and is dishwasher-safe and compact. Adapters are available for making it compatible with breast pump brands with which is not a direct fit.

Medela pump wipes

These sanitizing wipes from Medela help clean a pump while you’re out and away from a dishwasher.

Transporting refrigerated or frozen breastmilk

We do bottle feeding at night, so if we’re going to be away for even one night at minimum, we bring that night’s milk in a cooler and ice pack set when we leave the house. Recently I’ve been packing some refrigerated milk bottles from the fridge, along with a pack or two of frozen breastmilk from the freezer.

On our last road trip, we left home at around 9:30 am, stopped for lunch for about 90 minutes and then got to our Airbnb by 1 pm. The first thing I did was put the milk in the Medela cooler into the fridge, and like magic, the fridge milk was still cold and the frozen milk was about 95% still frozen.

Milk bags for the freezer

I have tried milk bags for the freezer from various brands, and I think the Lansinoh freezer bags are the best. They have the easiest zipper to close, and all you have to do is put the milk in and label it with a Sharpie.

Remember: breastmilk in a regular freezer is good for up to six months! I go by the CDC guidelines for breastmilk safety. View the CDC guidelines here.

Refrigerator milk bottles

For milk in the fridge, I wind up using the bottles that come from my Spectra pump . These are also the bottles I’ll take on a road trip in the Medela milk cooler, and they fit perfectly because they’re a standard 5-oz. size.

I also have some Lansinoh storage containers, as they’re for the Lansinoh bottles that my daughter takes as soon as we put the Lansinoh nipple on those. While we mostly use Comotomo bottles , I like that the Lansinoh bottles are a more standard size, so they’re less bulky in a diaper bag.

Medela milk cooler with ice pack

The Medela milk cooler is also not something I knew I needed, but I am so glad that I have it for being out and about or on a trip.

With this handy travel milk cooler, we could (if we needed to) bring up to 20 oz. of fridge milk in bottles, to our destination.

Typically I have a few fridge bottles and one or two frozen milk bags in there during a travel day.

Medela mini milk storage vial

For hand pumping or saved milk from a nursing session, I keep small amounts of milk (at room temperature for up to four hours as recommended by the CDC) in these vials while on the road.

Feeding breastmilk on the go

Now that you are able to store your breastmilk during travel, what about feeding it to your baby with bottles (if not breastfeeding)? Here are a few tips from my sister, who has done this more than I have, due to exclusive pumping for four months.

A diaper bag with insluation

My sister has the Bluekiwi diaper bag , which can fit four narrow 8-oz Dr. Brown’s bottles.

In the center insulated pocket, she’ll fit two bottles, plus an ice pack. The side insulated pocket can fit one bottle (without an ice pack). The fourth bottle-sized pocket is not insulated.

“Breastmilk pitcher”

This is a bit of a hack and workaround: my sister bought this smoothie/water bottle to use as a “breastmilk pitcher.”

When she has defrosted bags of breastmilk, she has poured them into this pitcher. Sometimes for travel, she’ll bring milk in this, and put it in a lunchbox with an ice pack.

Bottle Feeding & Formula Feeding (0-12+ months)

When my sister goes out of town, she usually packs four bottles. This is a good number of bottles to cycle through while also always having a clean one.

She washes her baby’s bottles in the dishwasher, and she brings a dishwasher basket (mentioned below) for the small bottle pieces. She and I both travel with a collapsible bottle drying rack, which again, helps keep things organized because there are so many bottle pieces (and pump pieces).

When Lily’s baby was younger, she avoided the dishwasher, and they hand washed the bottles and used the microwave sterilization bags. If you’re interested in microwave sterilizer bags , try these for times when you’re away from home.

Travel formula dispenser

While Lily and her husband are on the go, they bring a Munchkin travel formula dispenser . She just mixes the pre-measured formula with water, and shakes it up.

This dispenser has an easy spout, a snap-on lid for security, and holds enough formula to make three 8-oz. bottles.

Baby bottles for travel

Every parent (and baby) certainly has preferences about which brand of bottles to use. Before our baby was born, we had noooo idea that this was even a thing!

After experimenting with various brands of bottles (NUK, Dr. Brown’s, Comotomo, Spectra and Lansinoh) over her first three months, we came out with two contenders for the #1 favorite: Comotomo and Lansinoh.

My sister’s baby, however, prefers Dr. Brown’s bottles — the “skinny” type with the small nipple. I’ll leave links for all these types below!

Comotomo bottles are somewhat “modern” in that they’re very round (in the 5-oz. version) and have a bowl-like nipple. I like that they’re squishy. Our baby also likes playing with them in the bath (ha!).

Lansinoh bottles were recommended to us as bottles for breastfed babies because apparently the nipple mimics the “real thing.” We’ve had good luck with these, and I like that the small version is not so bulky when I pack one up in the diaper bag for a trip.

Dr. Brown’s “The Skinny Kind”

My mom group refers to the two models of Dr. Brown’s bottles as “the fat one” (or “the wide one”) and the tall/narrow version as “the skinny one.” My niece specifically takes the Dr. Brown’s skinny bottle , and has started feeding herself the bottle!

OXO Bottle brush travel kit & drying rack

This travel-sized drying rack was something I didn’t know I needed, and it’s so useful in serving as both a travel bottle brush (with a tiny bottle brush as well) and drying rack.

Check out Dan’s review of the bottle brush.

Open the folding case, and there’s a brush, along with a complete bottle or pump part drying rack. During our trip to Livingston Manor in the Catskills , we used this because we didn’t have a dishwasher in the hotel room. It was incredibly handy and kept our baby’s bottles clean for two days, making it one of the best items for surviving a hotel stay with a baby .

IMG_4253.jpg

Portable bottle warmer

While you very well could use a hot mug of water to warm up a bottle where you’re staying, the Tommee Tippee travel bottle warmer is good for on the go. It fits into a changing bag and can warm up a bottle when you’re traveling.

It’s a mobile bottle warmer because it doesn’t require an external power source; it securely stores hot water with insulation, so that you can pop a bottle right in, whether you are camping, or in and out of a hotel.

Dishwasher basket for bottle parts

If you’re staying at a friend’s house, family member’s house or a vacation rental house, hopefully there is a dishwasher and you can use it to wash bottle and pump parts. Having the Munchkin dishwasher basket is pretty necessary for tiny things like bottle nipples, bottle tops and small parts of a pump like the small duckbill parts.

What’s great about this one is that it has two “levels,” with the lower basket big enough to hold things like sippy cup parts.

Feeding solid food while traveling (6+ months)

Babies are messy eaters, and unfortunately, our daughters both cannot be trusted to eat neatly without a high chair tray! If you’re up to feeding solid food while you’re on a trip, check out these ideas of how you can make the experience more seamless for you and your baby.

Travel-sized lunchbox

We’re using this adorable travel lunchbox from the new baby & toddler product line at Quince!

Get free shipping, plus 365-day returns now!

Shop the deal

It’s made from recycled bottles and has a mesh zipper pocket for holding toddler or child silverware, along with a clear sleeve for a name tag. Check out how our baby food fits inside.

Booster seat for travel

My sister has the Chicco Pocket Snack Booster Seat , which stays at Grandma’s house. It has a good-sized tray and supportive seat back. It’s also totally packable for a road trip.

Canvas folding high chair

She also has the PandaEar portable canvas folding high chair that folds up into a little fabric travel bag. It’s very lightweight and can go right into the backseat on a road trip, or in the trunk of a car. You can strap it to a dining chair like a booster seat.

She can throw it into the stroller basket when they are having a picnic (it can be used on the ground and stands up on its own) in the park, or when heading to a restaurant. The weight and size of it are super convenient, although my sister admits that the tray is quite small, but it does have a cup holder. However, the “flat tray” is important to her.

Travel-friendly placemat

This is a placemat that she intends to buy, to bring to restaurants during trips. It would be good because if it is sticky after the meal, you can fold it shut and it won’t make the rest of your belongings sticky. Many restaurants in family-friendly travel destinations will be fine with you bringing this for the high chair.

Container of puffs and cereal

My sister keeps a container for puffs/cereal in the diaper bag when traveling. She likes this leak-proof plastic container because it’s small!

Also, the lid won’t fall off (it’s a screw lid, which is also pretty baby-proof). If you had a Ziploc bag, the cereal would get squished to crumbs.

A bib that folds up small for travel

We travel with an easy polyester bib that folds up small into our diaper bag. We call it “the smock!” Also, this long-sleeve bib is popular and works well for messy toddlers. It avoids having to use up an outfit change during a trip!

Cereal puffs

Lily also buys these cereal puffs from “Happy Baby” because many Gerber products have added sugar, which is good to know.

Puffs and finger-food cereals are great starter solids for being on the go because they’re not super messy. The older babies at my weekly baby/parent meetup often munch on these when they’re outside of the house.

Having a pouch of spoon-feedable baby food is going to be great for times when you’re feeding purees to your child. Also, we got our own pouches for purees so that we can make our baby’s favorite foods at home, put them in pouches, and take them on the go.

One of these would even safely fit in the pocket of our Baby Tula Compact Lite Baby Carrier , or in my Kibou fanny pack diaper bag for travel days.

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How to pack your baby’s feeding essentials for travel

When you’re at home, you don’t necessarily think about how to make your set up mobile. Here are a few quick tips for taking your kit on the go.

On a road trip

For a road trip, like the ones we’ve done, we’ve taken our daughter’s milk in the small milk bottle cooler , and any baby food like jars or pouches in a food bag with our food and snacks. If you have a baby or toddler who’s eating what you eat, whlie at restaurants, that’s even more convenient!

The only thing to keep in mind about the milk cooler is that if you are thinking of leaving it in the car and it’s hot during summer, consider bringing it in with you into a rest stop or restaurant to keep it less hot, while the car is heating up in the sun in a parking lot.

In a personal item

On most airlines (at least in the US), your diaper bag is considered the lap infant’s personal item, meaning if you and a partner are already traveling on a flight, your diaper bag “does not count” toward the personal item allowance between the two of you.

In the diaper bag, you can keep enough food to feed your baby during the flight itself, and hopefully enough to sustain the baby before the flight and after landing as well.

As a measure of security, please check with your airline regarding its allowances for diaper bags, bags of formula or milk and baby food.

In a carry-on

If your food or milk for your baby or toddler won’t all fit in the diaper bag, consider splitting it up between a carry-on suitcase or backpack, as well as a checked bag. This way, if your checked bag gets lost, at least you will have some of your baby’s food in the carry-on, which came on the plane with you.

In checked baggage

If you have your baby’s feeding essentials (or half of them) in checked baggage (which is pretty realistic, if you are flying and going away for more than a day), consider pickin gup Apple AirTags for the trip. This way, if your luggage gets stuck during connecting flights somewhere, or even just stuck in holding at your destination, you can track the location of the bag from the Find My app on your phone.

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Blog Around The World

Baby Food on Plane – A Guide To Taking Your Baby in the Air

So, you are traveling by air and have a baby.

Are you confused about bringing baby food on the Plane?

After reading this, you can have a relaxing flight with your baby. We’ll learn everything about the baby’s food and feeding her on the Plane.

On a plane, baby food is allowed with a few restrictions to avoid. But you can take baby food on a plane.

TSA (Transportation Security Administration) has made rules and regulations, as feeding the little after short intervals is necessary.

When we talk about a baby on the Plane, our efforts are to comfort her as much as possible.

First, we’ll discuss the most common questions asked, and then we’ll learn about feeding the baby on a plane:

Q#1. Are Baby Foods allowed on Plane?

Yes, baby foods are permitted .

Q#2. What Baby Foods are allowed?

You can take milk, cracked wheat, juices, and other baby foods on the go. Just make sure the food is appropriately packed in cans or jars.

There’s an exception to TSA’s ‘liquid rule’ regarding bottled breast milk or formula. So, no worries if you take baby fluids on the Plane.

Q#3. How much-bottled milk can I take?

The quantity you can take varies on the airline’s rules, so calling their support before you leave for the airport would help you know how much-processed milk/fluid you can take. However, depending on the flight duration, you can pack a reasonable quantity for your baby.

Q#4. Is Screening necessary for Bottled Milk?

No worries about the empty baby bottles in your backpack or carry-on baggage. But you can tell the TSA agent at the security screening area for bottled milk or formula. The agent might take bottles and return you after Screening.

So yes, Screening is necessary.

Q#5. Is Bottled Water allowed for the baby?

For baby comfort, you can take bottled water with you on the flight. Generally, TSA doesn’t allow water bottles for adults. There’s an exception for babies, i.e., bottled water is permitted.

Feeding Your Baby on the Plane

Now as you’ve got most of the common questions answered, here’s a mom’s guide to feeding a baby on a plane:

Step 1. Follow the Rules

Before we start, make sure you follow the rules.

• Call your airline’s customer support and ask for the baby food quantity you can take.
• Make sure you take fluids in bottles and food in cans.
• When you’re in the screening area, tell the TSA agent about the baby food so they can screen it for security reasons.

Step 2. Take Extra Fluids with you

Besides bottled breast milk or formula, your baby must stay hydrated throughout the flight. So, take extra fluids like juices with you.

Step 3. Pack a Nursing Cover

Pack a nursing cover to feed your baby on the go if you’re nursing. A nursing cover is helpful as you can comfort your baby on your lap. After all, comfort is what you require for your baby.

Step 4. Get Milk or Food Warmed Before you Feed

To feed your baby whenever she cries, ask the flight attendant to warm the milk or formula. They have got solutions to warm your baby’s fluid or food. Ovens, I mean!

Step 5. Feed your baby during takeoff and landing

It is compulsory to feed your baby when you take off and land. This helps in equalizing your baby’s ears. Another way to balance the baby’s ear is to owe her a pacifier.

BONUS: Always consider your flight duration

Being a mom, you know after what time she requires feeding. Considering that, compare the time with your flight duration to understand your baby food and pack accordingly.

Tips For a Comfortable Baby Flight

Book a Separate seat or a Car seat:

Book another seat for your infant. Although airlines allow under babies (max two years ) old, the baby may feel uncomfortable on your lap if you’re on a long flight. If you are tight on budget and can’t book a separate seat for her, book a window seat for yourself. If the medium-sized middle seat is not reserved, you can have your baby there throughout the flight. If you can afford it, go for a car seat which is the most comfortable choice for the little one!

Cover Your Baby adequately:

Have some clothing for her to cover correctly, as the baby may get uncomfortable during the takeoff and landing.

Use a Pacifier:

Using a pacifier or feeder in the baby’s mouth can help her equalize ears and relieve pressure during crucial times, i.e., landing and takeoff. Other than a pacifier or feeder, you can take a teething ring. Despite their inner contents, TSA allows teething rings for babies.

Deal with Fellow passengers:

The passenger sitting next to you will not welcome you when he finds out that you’ve got a baby with you. Communicate with them effectively to ensure you and your baby enjoy a comfortable journey. Take extra care of the infant, and don’t allow her to disturb fellow passengers. If she has a dirty diaper, go to the washroom and change it correctly. Be extra nice to the passengers next to you to experience a smooth flight.

A Final Thought

Taking a flight with your infant is not easy at all. You may experience some weird situations but you can make it easier by preparing for them. Prepare for the worst scenario, carry extra fluids and diapers, and be confident. There’s a saying: “Prepare for the worst and forget the rest.”

In case of a worst-case scenario, think that you’ll never reach your destination. Relax, as there’s no solution either. 😀 Happy Travel!

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Easy and practical baby led weaning travel food ideas for babies 6 months & up

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It’s summertime and guess what… no one wants to have to stay inside when it’s beautiful and sunny out! 

That being said, when you have a BLW baby, sometimes the hassle of figuring out what to feed them while traveling, or on-the-go, seems like it’s more work than it’s worth. But it doesn’t have to be stressful!

I’ve got a list of easy, MINIMAL MESS and portable baby finger food ideas you can pack as a snack, or combine to make meals. Keep reading for 12 easy options for baby led weaning foods while on-the-go!

I know how hard it can be to think of what to feed your baby when traveling, on the road, or out having fun at summer activities. That’s why I came up with this list – I’m all about making things easier for you!

These foods work whether you’re on a plane, at the park, or at a restaurant. While the occasional purée pouch, other store-bought baby food option, or even homemade baby food in a reusable package, will always have its benefits (hellooo convenience and mess-free eating!), packing whole foods means that you don’t have to deal with wrappers and messy containers or utensils. Plus, you’ll be continuing to expose your baby led weaning baby to a variety of real food, real flavors and advanced textures . 

I’m a big proponent of minimizing processed foods for babies (and adults!) as much as possible, as well as keeping those more advanced texture exposures coming. I FULLY understand that it’s hard – time doesn’t allow for it sometimes – and that a bit here and there won’t hurt. 

But helping you keep it top of mind as you navigate this world of feeding your babe is my job, so this list will hopefully help take away the guesswork as to what can fit into this category of foods.

Travel Food for Babies should be mess-free!

The above is definitely not a scenario you want to get stuck in when out and about with your baby! While it’s super cute and funny when it happens at home, this is less than ideal on a plane, or in a restaurant, for example. 

That’s why, in general, most people are looking for mess-free foods (or minimal mess… nothing is really mess-free with baby led weaning ). For this reason, I like to recommend avoiding anything with sauce, that’s in a casserole type format, or anything that requires a utensil unless you’re feeding the baby yourself (and they let you). Think yogurt , applesauce…that type of thing. 

Nothing is more messy than a baby refusing to let you spoon feed them and then dunking their hands into a container of applesauce!

And while I know moms love to be prepared for the worst – and often pack more for an outing than is needed. Let’s save those extra clothes for blowouts…those happen when you least expect it and you don’t want to have wasted your spare outfit on a messy meal!

So here’s some examples. If you pack meat, make it plain chicken. If you pack pasta, keep it plain with no sauce to minimize mess. If you pack fruit, opt for a banana or freeze dried varieties over messy ripe berries. That type of thing.

With that being said, here are my go-to baby led weaning travel foods.

The best travel baby food options for baby led weaning

One thing I want to make sure you keep in mind is the age and development of your baby. Some of these options are going to require pincer grasp …so if your baby is just starting out on solid foods, they won’t be ready for these options yet. 

Make sure you choose the options that are in finger shapes so they aren’t struggling to eat, because this will just end in frustration for both of you. If your baby is a bit older and already has their pincer grasp developed, or is practicing it, any of these options will be a good fit!

Boiled Eggs

Keep in a container with an ice pack and feed the baby anywhere! Provides an easy source of protein for babies , and healthy fats .

Cooked Pasta

This is perfect as an easy snack or meal idea on the go. Pair the pasta with cheese or beans for a full meal ! You can also opt to pack pulse based pasta, such as chickpea pasta for an added protein boost on its own.

Nothing beats a food that comes in its own packaging! Need I say more?

Canned Beans or Chickpeas

No need to cook! Just rinse, dump into a container, and go! I like to buy ones that are canned with a BPA free lining, and that have no added salt, especially when offering to babies because we need to be a bit more cautious when it comes to salt for babies (but I don’t want you to panic either, just give them an extra rinse and monitor salt intake over the rest of the day/next day to balance things out).

You may want to slightly smush chickpeas before offering, just to be extra safe. Depending on your baby’s skill level, and how soft they are, they can be a choking hazard .

Shredded Cheese

Cheese is a great source of protein for babies, as well as a good source of fat – both of which babies need for proper growth and development. And as an added bonus, it’s usually a favorite amongst most babies! 

Please note that I’m recommending shredded cheese, not slices. Slices can be a choking hazard for babies, as it can be difficult to cut the cheese in a thin layer so it won’t pose a risk. Therefore, shredded is best, especially in the beginning as you just start baby led weaning. Watch this video below for more info on how to safely prepare cheese for babies.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Edwena 🙋🏻‍♀️| Dietitian & Mom (@mylittleeater)

Freeze Dried Fruit

Like I mentioned above, fruit is a great option, but you’re gonna want to stick with mess-free varieties! 

Freeze-dried berries are an excellent source of vitamin C, and therefore pair nicely with beans to boost iron absorption – something babies need a lot of! And if you pair that with the pasta and shredded cheese, you have all the pieces of my FFP+P rule for a complete, balanced meal that’s perfect for baby led weaning ! 

While freeze-dried berries are great for this, fresh berries are not great from a mess-free perspective. So, freeze-dried fruit for the win! It will literally hold up in any weather (no need to pack a cooler), and is mess-free!

A similar alternative would be to pack yogurt-based melts – they’re typically freeze-dried as well so they’re not messy like packing yogurt would be! Our favorites are the Amara Smoothie Melts. These are actually plant-based, so if your little one has an allergy or sensitivity to dairy these will be perfectly fine for them too. They have no added sugars, fillers, or other additives – just simple, clean ingredients which we love! They come in lots of yummy flavors with various fruits and veggies blended right in and they come in a resealable bag, making them perfect for snacking on the go. Check them out here and use code LITTLEEATER15 for 15% off your purchase.

Baby Led Weaning Toast Strips

Super easy for on-the-go! Just toast bread and cut into thin strips – coat with a bit of butter to soften them up slightly. But, for the sake of mess-free travel foods, avoid things like nut butter or hummus, unless you’re able to wash up somewhere! 

Remember, fresh, untoasted bread is a choking hazard. If you’re looking for more info on toasting bread for your baby and serving it in a safe manner, check out this post all about toast toppings for babies and toddlers .

Roasted Veggies

Sounds complicated, but I’m actually going to suggest that you keep a bunch of these prepped ahead of time for easy meal ideas throughout the week. I personally always keep some on-hand in my fridge for snacks or quick meals. I make a big batch a couple times per week, and pull from it as needed. 

If you’re able to set aside the time to meal prep these (listen to my other fav meal prepping tips here ) then there’s nothing easier than just putting these in a container and offering them to your baby, any time of day. 

Some good veggies to try are bell peppers and zucchini. I’d avoid things like roasted sweet potato because it becomes so mushy that your baby will end up with orange mash all over them!

Baby Pancakes (only 3 ingredients!)

Ok, this one involves some cooking, but I swear it’s easy!

Mix together 1 ripe banana, 2 eggs, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of coconut oil. Scoop batter into a skillet and cook on low-medium heat until lightly brown, flipping once when you can see bubbles along the outer edge. Let them cool, cut into strips, and pack into a container. There you have it – simple, baby banana pancakes for on-the-go!

Fresh Fruit

I know this goes against what I just said above, but hear me out. There are fruits that are less messy that you can bring. Stewed pears or apples would be my top choice – no staining! You can also do kiwi wedges, plums, or oranges. These may be ever so slightly messy in that there may be a bit of fruit juice running on your baby’s hands, but nothing a baby wipe can’t handle.

I stand by my comment that fresh berries are just too messy – mashed bits of berry plus juice that stains…no thanks! But if you’re feeling risky – go for it!

Tofu Strips

Another super simple iron and protein source for your baby! You have two options here… 

• Pan fry tofu for 1-2 minutes on each side. Include a bit of flavor in there too for your baby, try some turmeric, dill, or paprika. Let cool, and pack in a container to go! 
• I love using Soyganic smoked tofu as another option – it’s non-gmo, organic and there’s no need to cook it. Just slice it, pack, and go. It doesn’t get any easier than that!

Tofu is my favorite to-go protein! It’s the perfect texture for a baby, no crumbly mess, and offers lots of calcium and protein! Plus, pair it with a fruit high in vitamin C, like some freeze dried strawberries, and you’ve got a great source of iron too!

Thawed Peas (from frozen)

No need to cook these! Just dump some frozen peas into a container and let them thaw out over a couple hours until ready to eat. Plus, the cold peas keep everything else you pack nice and cold too. Fast food at its finest!

And I know what you’re thinking…peas need to be mashed right? No, they don’t. They’re actually not considered a choking hazard because they’re so soft and are so easily mashed in your baby’s mouth. It’s round, hard foods that you want to look out for, think like grapes. But if it makes you feel more comfortable, there’s no harm in giving them a quick squish before offering them to your baby.

Homemade Muffin

One more yummy option is a homemade muffin, or mini muffins, – and I’ve got two ideas for them.

Option 1: Bake a tasty pastry muffin for your baby.

Choose baby led weaning recipes with no honey and no added sugar, besides some fruit. You can even freeze muffins and pull them from the freezer anytime you need one in a jiffy. One of my favorites, that’s popular with toddlers too, are shrek muffins – check out the recipe here .

Option 2: Egg muffins!

These are also great to keep in the freezer and pull out when you need them. I have a recipe available in my 60 Day Baby Led Feeding Meal plan – take a look here to get access to over 80 baby led weaning recipes perfect for your baby and family! Now, with this option you will need to pack those in a cooler, but there’s no mess and tons of nutrition so they make one of the most perfect on-the-go meal ideas !

Travel Baby Food: Top Tips

Now that you have some meal ideas for what to feed your baby while on-the-go, let’s go over some of the other important details.

What About Food Safety for Travel Baby Food Options?

While you absolutely need to consider whether a food needs to be kept cold or not, you don’t need to worry about serving it cold or hot. Don’t stress if you can’t heat some of these foods up, room temperature is fine. 

With the exception of maybe the eggs, although I’ve definitely seen toddlers eat eggs at room temperature, as long as you follow food safety rules, they’re fine to eat that way.

Which leads me to my next point. If you’re out for more than 4 hours, or you’re traveling in the heat, make sure you throw an ice pack in your bag to preserve the food for longer. Babies are more susceptible to food borne illnesses, so you don’t want to take any risks with their food, just pack the ice pack (or frozen peas).

How Many Finger Foods to Pack for Baby Led Weaning While Traveling

Something to keep in mind when traveling with a baby led weaning baby (or any day, even at home), is that babies don’t need snacks between 6-10 months of age . After that, they need no more than 1, maybe 2 solid food snacks. 

Check out my schedules for how many meals to offer based on their age, including milk feedings as well, here .

This means that if the time comes and your baby is hungry, breast milk or formula will continue to do the job most times! It may just be main meals, and as mentioned, 1-2 solid food snacks (maybe one mid-morning and one mid-afternoon) that you offer as they get closer and closer to one year of age. 

So, really you don’t need to pack very much, especially if you’re just starting your baby on solids . I’d go with a few pieces of each food that you’re bringing per meal. And remember, if they eat all of it and they still seem hungry – don’t fret! Breast milk or formula can fill in this gap for now. They won’t starve, and it won’t cause any confusion or anything else you may hear – promise.

What to Bring (Besides Travel Baby Food Options)

As much as we prepare for no-mess meal ideas , we also need to prepare for our baby to surprise us and make a mess anyways…it’s just what they do! So make sure you also pack…

• Bibs – long sleeved ones are the best for keeping clothes clean
• Baby wipes or washcloths
• A silicone suction mat (this is helpful to keep food contained as much as possible in one place)
• Silicone plate with a lid to store all the food – these Bumkins ones are my favorites
• Travel Booster Seat

Safety Tips When Feeding BLW Baby On-The-Go

Feeding babies comes with a risk no matter where you are, or what type of feeding you’re doing (purées or baby led weaning). 

That being said, when on-the-go, you should be extra careful of choking, especially if your baby is not seated in a proper highchair, or is moving around while eating. Both of which are likely when you’re out and about doing fun things – it happens! 

Here are my major tips to keep in mind…

1. Seat baby in someone else’s lap, if possible.

That’s right, let grandma or grandpa get some snuggles while the baby eats, because choking is usually a silent occurrence. This way, you have the best front view of your baby eating to make sure you catch anything happening right away in case, God forbid, they begin to choke. 

That’s why I recommend having someone else hold them in their lap while you do the feeding, so you can watch them better that way.

It also helps if you’re prepared ahead of time by taking an infant CPR course. Our favorite online option is by Safe Beginnings – it’s taught by a certified instructor and child safety expert, so you’re getting the best info available to be prepared for the worst case scenario. Take 20% off with code MYLITTLEEATER and enroll here !

2. Pull over before feeding in the car.

If required to feed in the car, try and pull over while feeding. Feeding in a car is not my favorite, but I know that sometimes it’s just unavoidable. A moving car is even more of a risk, so if you can, pull over first before offering food. 

Feeding while in a moving car can increase their choking risk as bumps and turns can cause babies to lose control of the food in their mouth making it more likely to become lodged in their throat.

And then you have to find a safe space to pull over to have enough room to perform any kind of maneuver on your baby, which takes up precious time, and that’s not a panic I want you to experience ever.

My second point on this is that I really don’t recommend feeding in a car seat, if at all possible, anyway. Again, your baby is not in the correct position for feeding, they aren’t fully upright. This means that their airway isn’t fully open, which again, can increase their choking risk . 

Instead, try to find a safe place to park where you can get out of the car to stretch your legs, and take your baby out to sit on someone’s lap to feed. At least this way they’re able to sit upright and have an open airway.

3. Avoid feeding in a stroller.

I think we’re seeing a theme here, but again, keep them sitting upright. So if a highchair isn’t available, someone else’s lap is the next best option as opposed to a stroller, car seat, etc.

Ok – there you have it! Keep things simple, remember that fast food can mean simple whole finger foods from home, and enjoy your summer out with your babe!

Want to learn how to feed your baby led weaning baby all these foods mentioned in this post, and more? Check out my Baby Led Feeding online course for a complete walk through on starting solids, including videos that show how to safely serve all foods like a pro!

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Registered pediatric dietitian, mom of two picky-turned-adventurous eater, and the creator of the Texture Timeline™ – an exclusive tool to help move your baby through easy to more advanced purees and finger foods to prevent picky eating.

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How To Travel With Baby Formula And Food

Travelpro Travel Expert Editor

Tips & Tricks

Planning a family trip is exciting, but packing for it can be overwhelming, especially if you plan to fly with your little ones. You can travel with milk, formula, or baby food no matter where you are. When you must pass through airport security and have enough supplies on hand for days, handling these items requires some simple preparation.

Before packing your bags, here are a few tips on traveling with baby formula and food so that you – and the whole family – stay happy.

Can you bring baby formula on a plane

The TSA classifies baby formula as medically necessary, so you can pack as much baby formula as you need for the trip without being limited to the 3.4-ounce rule that applies to other liquids. When you go through security screening, inform airport security of the amount of baby formula you’re carrying. Remove the formula from your carry-on so the agent can screen it separately. TSA officers may test the liquid to confirm it is baby formula and not a prohibited liquid.

Can you bring powdered formula on a plane?

You can pack unmixed baby formula in your carry-on. As with premixed powder, inform the TSA agent you have the baby formula during screening. Ideally, keep the formula in its original packaging. Security may test a small portion of the formula for prohibited substances but will not add anything to the formula package.

Breast or Store-Bought Milk

The rules for breast milk are the same as for baby formula. You can bring as much breast milk as you need for the trip in your carry-on, preferably stored in transparent bottles. The same rules apply if you’re wondering how to travel with milk for a 1-year-old. Milk for older children will be subject to the same 3-1-1 rules as other liquids.

Can you bring baby food on a plane

You can bring baby and toddler food on a plane in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces, including jars and baby food pouches of fruits, vegetables, and meat/poultry purees. Store the food in well-sealed containers separate from the rest of your personal belongings.

Can you bring homemade baby food on a plane?

Homemade baby food is allowed in carry-on bags but may be subject to additional screening by TSA agents. Label all homemade baby food before packing, and have it stored in an accessible location in your carry-on bag.

How to keep baby formula and food safe on board

Once you have figured out just how much baby formula powder/ breastmilk and food you should pack, you need to plan how to keep the food safe. Some trips can be long and involve many more hours than just your flight time. How can you ensure your baby’s food stays fresh?

Here are a few things you can do to ensure that your baby's food and formula are safe during travel:

• A travel cooler  bag is your best bet for day trips to week-long adventures. Some are made for wet and dry foods and can be used to keep food warm or cold.
• Check baby food and formula containers for expiration and refrigeration requirements
• Use ice packs to keep food and formula cold when needed.
• Avoid giving your baby food from open containers that have been sitting out at room temperature for more than two hours.
• Do not heat baby food or formula using the airplane's microwave.

Being prepared by following these few guidelines will give you peace of mind for a safe and healthy trip. Check out more of our family travel blogs for other helpful tips and tricks on kid- and baby-friendly travel.

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How can I feed my baby while I'm travelling?

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What to Pack When Traveling With Baby

Fact-checking standards, latest update:, when can you travel with your baby, read this next, what to pack for your baby in a carry-on bag, what to pack in your baby's suitcase.

Happy travels!

What to Expect the First Year , 3rd edition, Heidi Murkoff. WhatToExpect.com, Flying With a Baby? Here's What to Know Before You Go , September 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Do Babies Need Passports? , October 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Best Travel Toys for Babies , February 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Baby Products You Can Take on a Plane , September 2020. American Academy of Pediatrics, Flying with Baby: Parent FAQs , November 2019. American Academy of Pediatrics, Is It Safe for Families to Travel Now? , August 2021. American Academy of Pediatrics, Travel Safety Tips , August 2018.  American Academy of Pediatrics, Is It Safe for My Baby to Travel in a Car Seat a Few Hours at a Time? , August 2021. Transportation Security Administration, Traveling with Children . Federal Aviation Administration, Flying with Children , March 2021. Mayo Clinic, Is Air Travel Safe for an Infant? , October 2019.

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What Can I Bring?

Planning ahead and packing properly can facilitate the screening process and ease your travel experience at the airport. Know what you can pack in your carry-on and checked baggage before arriving at the airport by reviewing the lists below. Even if an item is generally permitted, it may be subject to additional screening or not allowed through the checkpoint if it triggers an alarm during the screening process, appears to have been tampered with, or poses other security concerns. Read about civil penalties for prohibited items .

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The final decision rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint.

Officers may ask you to power up your electronic device, including cell phones. Powerless devices will not be permitted onboard the aircraft. TSA does not read or copy information from your device.

Alcoholic beverages

• Carry On Bags: Yes (Less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml allowed)
• Checked Bags: Yes

Check with your airline before bringing any alcohol beverages on board. FAA regulations prohibit travelers from consuming alcohol on board an aircraft unless served by a flight attendant.  Additionally, Flight Attendants are not permitted to serve a passenger who is intoxicated.

Alcoholic beverages with more than 24% but not more than 70% alcohol are limited in checked bags to 5 liters (1.3 gallons) per passenger and must be in unopened retail packaging. Alcoholic beverages with 24% alcohol or less are not subject to limitations in checked bags. 

Mini bottles of alcohol in carry-on must be able to comfortably fit into a single quart-sized bag.

For more information, see FAA regulation: 49 CFR 175.10(a)(4).

Alcoholic beverages over 140 proof

• Carry On Bags: No
• Checked Bags: No

Alcoholic beverages with more than 70% alcohol (over 140 proof), including grain alcohol and 151 proof rum. For more information, see FAA regulation: 49 CFR 175.10(a)(4).

• Carry On Bags: Yes

Baby food is allowed in reasonable quantities in carry-on bags. Remove these items from your carry-on bag to be screened separately from the rest of your belongings. Please see traveling with children for more information.

Baby Formula

• Carry On Bags: Yes (Special Instructions)

Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters are allowed in carry-on baggage and do not need to fit within a quart-sized bag. Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) are considered medically necessary liquids. This also applies to breast milk and formula cooling accessories, such as ice packs, freezer packs, and gel packs (regardless of presence of breast milk). Your child or infant does not need to be present or traveling with you to bring breast milk, formula and/or related supplies.

Inform the TSA officer at the beginning of the screening process that you are carrying formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) in excess of 3.4 ounces. Remove these items from your carry-on bag to be screened separately from your other belongings. TSA officers may need to test the liquids for explosives or concealed prohibited items.

Although not required, to expedite the screening process, it is recommended that formula and breast milk be transported in clear, translucent bottles and not plastic bags or pouches. Liquids in plastic bags or pouches may not be able to be screened by Bottle Liquid Scanners, and you may be asked to open them (if feasible) for alternate screening such as Explosive Trace Detection and Vapor Analysis for the presence of liquid explosives. Screening will never include placing anything into the medically necessary liquid.

TSA X-ray machines do not adversely affect food or medicines. However, if you do not want the formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) to be X-rayed or opened, please inform the TSA officer. Additional steps will be taken to clear the liquid and you or the traveling guardian will undergo additional screening procedures, to include Advanced Imaging Technology screening and additional/enhanced screening of other carry-on property.

Ice packs, freezer packs, frozen gel packs and other accessories required to cool formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) – regardless of the presence of breast milk – are also allowed in carry-ons, along with liquid-filled teethers. If these items are partially frozen or slushy, they are subject to the same screening as described above.

Please see  traveling with children  for more information.

Travelers requiring special accommodations or concerned about the security screening process at the airport may request assistance by contacting TSA Cares online at http://www.tsa.gov/contact-center/form/cares or by phone at (855) 787-2227 or federal relay 711.

Bottled Water

Solid food items (not liquids or gels) can be transported in either your carry-on or checked bags. Liquid or gel food items larger than 3.4 oz are not allowed in carry-on bags and should be placed in your checked bags if possible.

TSA officers may instruct travelers to separate items from carry-on bags such as foods, powders, and any materials that can clutter bags and obstruct clear images on the X-ray machine. Travelers are encouraged to organize their carry-on bags and keep them uncluttered to ease the screening process and keep the lines moving.

Breast Milk

Canned foods.

There are some items that are not on the prohibited items list, but because of how they appear on the X-ray, security concerns, or impact of the 3-1-1 rules for liquids, gels and aerosols, they could require additional screening that might result in the item not being allowed through the checkpoint. We suggest that you pack this item in your checked bag, ship it to your destination or leave it at home.

Check with your airline or travel agent to see if firearms are permitted in checked baggage on the airline you are flying. Ask about limitations or fees, if any, that apply.

Any sharp objects in checked baggage should be sheathed or securely wrapped to prevent injury to baggage handlers and Security Officers.

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Travel food recipes for your baby: photos

Feeding your baby while on the go

Readymade baby cereal mixes, fruit or vegetable purée, oats banana porridge, wholewheat biscuits, mini vegetable idlis, banana bread fingers, wholewheat carrot cake, well-cooked eggs, stuffed paranthas, cooked pasta shapes.

Once your little one starts on solid foods, travelling with your baby needs a bit more preparation and planning. Try our travel food options that are easy to prepare and carry and won't get messy while feeding your baby. We suggest you feed your baby these foods a few times at home before your planned travel. This will help you see which foods your baby accepts well.

When you're on a trip, nothing can be as handy as readymade baby cereal mixes. These are readily available in stores and come in a variety of flavours. Choose one that is appropriate for your baby’s age and palate. Powdered cereals can be mixed with expressed breastmilk , formula milk or even with boiled and cooled water. You can also make your own cereal powder mix. Ingredients

• 1 cup rice ( chhota chawal )
• 1 cup wheat grains ( gehu )
• 1 cup finger millet ( ragi )
• 1 cup split green mung ( hari moong dal )

Method Wash the rice, wheat, ragi , moong dal several times over in plenty of water. Sun dry them and then roast the mixture in a pan, oven or microwave. Once the cereal is dry through and through, grind it to a fine powder. Transfer to an airtight container. For preparing the cereal, just add in expressed breastmilk, formula milk, boiled and cooled water or any fruit or vegetable purée that is easy to carry.

Choose your baby's favourite fruit or vegetable purée and jar it in an airtight container. Make sure the container is really airtight so that mould cannot set in. Store the prepared purée in the fridge. These generally keep in the fridge for up to two days, provided there are no power cuts . Since purées have a limited shelf life, they are good for a day out, but not your best choice if you are taking a trip of several days. You can also use store-bought purées that might have a longer shelf life. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions on using and storing purées.

Oats are a good source of protein, vitamin B1, dietary fibre, and other micronutrients. You can add any soft fruit of your baby's liking to this recipe. Bananas are usually a favourite with babies and readily available in most places, so this is our fruit of choice in this recipe. Ingredients

• 1 ripe banana ( kela )
• Roasted oats (as needed)
• Baby's regular milk

Method Prepare a batch of powdered roasted oats first. You can take one cup of oats or more, depending on how often you use it or how big a batch you want to make. Roast the required quantity over a low flame, stirring intermittently for 2-3 minutes. Once done, transfer the oats to a wide plate and allow to cool completely. Transfer to a mixer and grind to a consistency that your baby is able to eat. For 6-months-old babies, just starting on solid foods, grind the roasted oats into a fine powder. For older babies, the consistency can be coarser. Store in an airtight container.  When making the porridge, use a fork to mash a peeled banana in a bowl. Add 1 to 2 tsp of the roasted oats powder to the mashed banana and mix. Add breastmilk or formula to make the porridge more runny if required. For older babies and toddlers, you can increase the quantity of oats to 3 to 4 tsp and use regular milk .

Wholewheat biscuits are a good option for travel food and quick snacks. Ingredients

• 2 cups wholewheat flour ( gehu ka atta )
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 cup butter
• A pinch of cardamom ( chhoti elaichi ) powder

Method Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Meanwhile, whisk the flour, baking powder and baking soda in a bowl. Add butter into the flour mixture and mix well until it resembles coarse crumbs. Add milk and stir into a smooth dough. Put the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead briefly for a few minutes. Pat and roll out the dough to about three quarter inch thickness. Cut circles with a 2-inch biscuit cutter, or a cup or katori and arrange on a baking sheet. You could also use cookie cutters in interesting shapes such as animals, stars or hearts. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until light brown. Remove from the oven and place on a cooling rack. Once cool, store in an airtight container and use within two weeks.

Here's an interesting twist to the good old idli . This recipe provides balanced nutrition in the form of proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, fibre and fats. Ingredients

• 2 cups idli batter
• 1/4 cup carrot ( gajar ) - grated
• 1/4 cup boiled peas ( matar )- mashed
• Roasted cumin ( bhuna jeera ) powder - optional

Method Mix the carrot, peas and cumin powder in the idli batter. Pour spoonfuls of the batter into greased idli moulds and steam in a steamer for 10 to 12 minutes or till they are done. Once they cool, pack in an airtight container and use within a day.

Ingredients

• 1 banana ( kela )
• 4 wholewheat bread slices
• 1 pinch cinnamon ( dalcheeni ) powder - 1 pinch (optional)
• Oil or ghee for frying

Method Cut the bread slices into long strips and keep aside. Blend the banana, milk and cinnamon powder until you get a smooth and slightly runny mixture. Heat a non-stick pan over medium flame. Grease with a little oil or ghee . Dip the bread fingers into the banana mixture and lightly fry on each side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain out excess oil. Once done, store in an airtight container and use within a day.

This healthy cake is easy to make and carry and provides a host of nutrients and interesting flavours for your little one. Ingredients

• 150g wholewheat flour ( gehu ka atta )
• 300g carrots ( gajar ), coarsely grated
• 20 almonds ( badaam ), powdered
• 20 raisins ( kishmish ) - finely chopped
• 2-3 walnuts ( akhrot ), powdered
• 4 tsp ground mixed spice (optional)
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 2 large eggs
• 100ml sunflower oil, plus a little extra for greasing
• 3 tbsp semi-skimmed milk

Method Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, grease and line the base of a cake tin with baking parchment. Put the flour, almonds, raisins, walnuts, mixed spice and baking soda in a large bowl and mix thoroughly. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, oil and milk together and fold in the grated carrot. Add the egg mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring to form a thick batter. Pour the batter into the prepared tin and spread to the sides.  Bake in the oven for about half an hour, or until the cake is well-risen and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Leave to cool in the tin. Take the cake out of the tin and peel off the lining paper. Cut into slices and keep in an airtight container in the fridge until you pack it. It's best for your baby to eat this within 4-6 hours after it's removed from the fridge.

Cooked eggs are convenient to carry and a great way to handle hunger pangs. They work best for short journeys. You can try hard-boiled eggs, scrambled eggs, omelette or egg bhurji . For a more filling meal, offer the eggs with buttered toast, chapati or parantha . Take a look at our slideshow on egg recipes for your baby for more options!

Wholewheat paranthas stuffed with cooked vegetables or purées make filling and yummy breakfast, lunch or dinner options.  Paranthas cut into small pieces or strips make great  finger foods . Ingredients

• 1 cup wholewheat or multigrain flour
• Stuffing or purée of your choice
• Oil or ghee for lightly frying

Method Prepare the dough and use any stuffing of your choice. Good options include potatoes ( aloo ), cauliflower ( gobhi ), peas ( matar ), radish ( mooli ), carrots ( gajar ), beetroot ( chukandar ) or any cooked, leftover dry sabzi . For a more protein-rich option, try stuffing the paranthas with cottage cheese ( paneer ), soya mince or minced meat ( keema ). If using purée, knead it into the dough. Vegetable purées such as pumpkin ( kaddu/sitaphal ), bottlegourd ( lauki/doodhi ), and spinach ( palak ) can also be kneaded into the flour. Another variation is to knead the flour with high-protein food items like different types of cooked and mashed lentils ( dals ), kidney beans ( rajma ) and chickpeas ( chhole ). Gram flour ( besan ) or different types of mixed flours can be used to make delicious multigrain paranthas . Cut into bite-sized pieces or in strips and store in an airtight container. Use within a few hours after they have been cooked.

For short trips, cooked pasta works well. You can carry any vegetable or non-vegetarian purée in a jar and mix it for additional flavour and nutrition. Just make sure you use the purée within a few hours and don't keep any leftover pasta for later.  See our slideshow on nutritious purées for more ideas! These baby recipes have been put together by BabyCenter with the help of Dr Shaveta Kaushal, a pharmacologist with a passion for creating healthy and nutritious meals for babies.

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Baby and Toddler Foods To Carry & Avoid While Travelling

Video: Travel Foods for Babies and Toddlers (What to Carry and What to Avoid)

Food for babies while travelling, food for toddlers while travelling, foods to avoid while travelling with your baby or toddler.

Travelling with a baby in tow may seem challenging, but the key to ensuring a smooth journey that both you and the baby enjoy is to be prepared for anything you may need. A major part of travelling with your baby is having the right food around, as babies stomachs are delicate, and can’t handle outside food. Many parents are unsure about what kind of food to carry when travelling with a baby and toddler. To keep your baby’s hunger satiated and her mood happy, it is important to carry food that is both, travel-friendly and delicious. Here are some baby and toddler travel food ideas.

Babies between six to 12 months old are fairly new in the process of being introduced to solids , so it essential to be smart about the type of food you carry along for them. Here are some travel foods for babies.

1. Baby Food

Baby food is nutritious, yummy, and quite easy to prepare while travelling. This kind of food is generally given to infants above six months. There are various baby food premixes that are easily available and travel-friendly.

This is a complete food for babies and toddlers, due to the rich nutrients it contains. You can rely on breastfeeding the baby if you are travelling in a private vehicle, but it can be an issue in public places. Store breast milk beforehand, using a breast pump, and feed your baby during meal times. Formula milk is a great option, as it needs water and formula powder to make the mix.

3. Fruit Purees

These are wholesome, loaded with essential nutrients, and easy to prepare when travelling. This can be prepared on-the-spot since all you need is fruit, milk, a bowl, and a fork. Mash the fruit add milk and feed it to your tiny tot.

4. Carrot Cake

Travel isn’t fun without something sweet, right? Carrot cake is soft, healthy and delicious. You can always substitute flour and sugar with healthier ingredients such as whole wheat and jaggery or honey. Your child will be super happy when you bring out the carrot cake you’ve packed.

5. Porridge Mix

If your baby is over 6 months, you can carry easy-to-make porridge for him. Some easy and delicious porridges made out of sattu or ragi are easy to prepare as you simply need to pour hot water and mix. They are nutritious, easy to carry and a sure hit for your child.

6. Vegetable Puree

Boil vegetables like broccoli and carrot , and mash them until they reach a puree consistency. These can be seasoned and fed to your baby during travel to ensure his nutritional intake is sufficient for the day. Vegetables purees are easy to feed your child, and he will surely love the taste.

Between the ages of one to three, toddlers are now more accustomed to eating solid food, but require non-spicy, hygienic, and well-cooked dishes. Here are some food ideas for toddlers when travelling.

This superfood is easy to carry while travelling and is packed with essential nutrients such as calcium. Kids love the tasty flavours of yoghurt, which is light on the stomach. Ensure you pack yoghurt in travel-friendly jars for an easy feeding session. Ensure that you store yoghurt in a cool environment.

Choose O-shaped cereals while shopping for your trip, and it can prove to be an ideal travel food for one-year-old children and above. Slide them onto his fingers and let him enjoy this engaging activity while travelling. You can add dry fruits to make it healthy and enhance the flavour too.

This superfood is rich in calories and helps to boost the immune system. The unsaturated fats in eggs help in developing the brain. As you’re travelling, you can stick to serving them hard-boiled eggs, as they are the least likely to create a mess.

This Middle Eastern dish is rich in iron, which can prevent anaemia. Its thick texture means that kids are unlikely to spill it, and can be eaten with pita bread, which is filling. Make sure to refrigerate it before carrying and store it in a cool environment.

Parathas are filling, delicious, and can be prepared according to your baby’s tastes. You can prepare theplas at home and pack them for your journey, and your baby is sure to love them. Ensure that you let them cool completely before packing them.

6. Granola Bars

You can make soft energy bars or granola bars at home, loaded with healthy ingredients that are nutritious. They provide your little one with energy throughout the trip and are delicious and filling as well.

Date and dry fruit chikkis, rajgira or peanut chikkis are a good option for toddlers while travelling. These are healthy and stay fresh for a longer time.

8. Baked/ Roasted Makhana or Jowar Puffs

These are delicious, healthy, and filling, and a great option when travelling with toddlers. You can also add some milk flavours to them, which your child is sure to love.

Who doesn’t love cheese? Definitely not your toddler! Carry cheese cubes or cheese sticks and simply pass them to your child as finger food during the journey. It will keep him entertained and satiated for a while.

10. Cookies

You can bake healthy cookies out of ragi flour and jaggery before your journey and pack them. These are a great snack for long journeys as they are sweet and delicious, and last for long when packed well.

If you have a long journey, pack some idlis with sugar or jaggery for your little one. These are filled with nutrition and easy to hold and eat, so you can avoid any mess while travelling. For an extra zing, add spinach puree or beetroot extract to the idli batter to dye them green or purple.

12. Instant Upma or Poha

You can dehydrate some veggies and make a poha or upma mix with very little oil. Once the dry base is prepared, you can pack it along and simply add hot water when it’s time for your baby to eat. These are easy to make and nutritious too.

There are certain kinds of foods to be avoided when you are travelling with a baby in tow. Strike them off your travel list to ensure you and your baby have a hassle-free trip:

• Oily snacks (especially the ready-made variety) should be avoided, as they can lead to issues like heartburn and obesity.
• Soft drinks are rich in sugar and can erode the enamel of your kids.
• Cereals that are high in sugar can lead to early diabetes.
• Thin liquids are easy to spill and cause a mess. Kids have less control over their motor functions and can easily spill and drop food.
• Foods that are relatively small can get lodged in the windpipe and are a choking hazard.
• New and untried food which may not agree with your baby’s tummy

Travelling with your baby should be special for you and your baby. Feeding your baby or toddler during an outstation trip should not cause any stress. All you require is effort and loads of patience, so the journey becomes enjoyable with food and feeding times are the least of your worries.

References/Resources:

1. Feeding your baby: 6–12 months; UNICEF; https://www.unicef.org/parenting/food-nutrition/feeding-your-baby-6-12-months

2. Prohibited Item List; Airports Authority of India; https://www.aai.aero/en/airports/security-info/kullu-manali

3. Travel Recommendations for Nursing Families; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/infantandtoddlernutrition/breastfeeding/travel-recommendations.html ; July 2021

4. Foods and Drinks to Avoid or Limit; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/infantandtoddlernutrition/foods-and-drinks/foods-and-drinks-to-limit.html ; June 2023

5. When, What, and How to Introduce Solid Foods; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/infantandtoddlernutrition/foods-and-drinks/when-to-introduce-solid-foods.html ; August 2021

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How to pack — and prepare — for travel with a baby

About to take your first trip with a new baby ? Or maybe this isn't your first time traveling with your little one , but you'd like to pack more efficiently this time around.

It can be hard to know how to prepare and pack when you have a baby in tow. Babies often change so quickly that anticipating their needs can be complicated — especially if you're planning a longer trip.

In addition to typical packing concerns, such as the weather in your destination or luggage size restrictions, it's not always clear what you can carry on or must check when it comes to your infant. Here's our advice to help you prepare, pack and travel better with your baby.

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Choose accommodations wisely (and pack accordingly)

If you're traveling by car, you can easily pack a travel crib and other larger baby items.

However, if you're flying, choosing the right accommodation is the key to packing lighter, which is the goal. Toting around an infant is strain enough — staying somewhere that provides baby items means you can leave the extras at home.

Check with your hotel to see if it offers cribs or other baby items, as well as if it provides laundry services or facilities where you can do your own. Some hotels will even provide an extra fridge for milk storage upon request.

Often, a home rental might be a better choice than a hotel, assuming you pick the right one. Airbnb allows you to filter properties by items such as "crib" and "high chair." You can also message hosts to see if they have any other baby-friendly items available.

For example, I recently filtered an Airbnb search in Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic to show only rentals that included a crib, high chair, washer and dryer. I ended up picking a rental that included not only the aforementioned items, but also a bottle sterilizer, bottle warmer and a few other infant-friendly items, which allowed me to pack less.

Some rentals I've stayed in even provided baby toys, books and cutlery. The key is communication. Don't hesitate to message and confirm the equipment again with hosts as you pack. You can also request or confirm that everything will be set up and ready for the baby upon your arrival.

Access to a washer and dryer is important since babies tend to have accidents or leaky diapers. Being able to do laundry also lets you pack fewer clothes. Also, if your rental is not a stand-alone house or a unit on the first floor, check that there is an elevator. A five-floor walk-up in a multi-unit building can be difficult with a stroller, shopping bags and baby in your arms.

Call your airline to understand the regulations

Depending on your airline, fare class and destination, you may have to adhere to different rules when it comes to traveling with an infant.

Those regulations can also vary depending on whether you've purchased a lap ticket versus a separate seat for your baby. In almost all cases, airlines allow travelers with an infant to gate-check a stroller or buggy, and some may also allow a car seat. Check with your airline ahead of time to understand baggage rules for your little one to avoid getting caught off guard at the airport or paying extra, especially when flying low-cost carriers like Ryanair or Spirit .

Flying with an infant in a car seat and hoping to bring it on the plane? Make sure it's approved for air travel. You may also want to request a bassinet for your baby, if the aircraft you're flying offers one (check the weight limits, however). Ask for an aisle seat, as it makes standing up with your baby much easier.

Invest in travel-friendly baby items

Having a dedicated (foldable) travel stroller will be useful beyond air travel. It's the perfect item to have when exploring a new city. Other key travel baby items to consider taking along are:

• Travel diaper backpack.
• Portable changing pad.
• Travel car seat.
• A bag for a car seat or stroller so these items aren't damaged if checked.
• Portable baby monitor.
• Baby carrier or wrap.
• Swaddle or baby blankets.
• Inflatable bathtub .
• Pack 'n Play or travel crib.
• Travel neck pillow (use it while feeding your baby).
• Baby chair strap.
• Disposable bottle liners.
• Disposable bibs.
• Portable blackout shades for travel cribs or strollers.

Purchase (or preorder) diapers, formula and more at your destination

Depending on how long your trip is and where you're headed, calculate (and it's always best to over-calculate) how many diapers you'll need for the trip.

If your baby uses a specific formula or baby food, make sure you know where to buy it at your destination. Amazon and other delivery services can be useful for ordering these items -- and remember, these services are available internationally, too. You can also compare ingredients to see if you can get a similar formula or food at your destination, so you won't have to load up your suitcase with diapers or formula.

Don't worry if you forget baby socks or another basic item. Babies live all over the world, so you'll likely find many basic items available for purchase wherever you are. If your baby requires something specific, though, pack it just in case.

There are also companies that rent baby gear in many destinations around the world. Research ahead of time to find out exactly where and how to obtain these necessary items, especially when traveling abroad .

Carry on the essentials (and extras)

Always pack your baby's key essentials in your carry-on . This includes comfort items like their favorite toy or pacifier, and extra clothes for both your baby and you (in case their wardrobe disaster becomes yours, as well). You should also pack enough food, diapers and other key items to last you through the trip, plus more for any possible delays and/or cancelations.

Here's a list of items you may want to keep in your carry-on bag :

• Extra clothing for you and your baby.
• Layers of clothing or blankets (plane temperatures are often extreme).
• Pacifier and clip (and backup).
• Comfort toy(s) or blanket.
• Extra diapers.
• Breast pump.
• Snacks (for you and your baby).
• Baby wipes.
• Sanitizing wipes.
• Extra bibs.
• Ziploc bags for stowing soiled clothing (or a reusable, waterproof bag).
• Baby Tylenol or any infant medications.
• A basic first aid kit.
• Small toy(s).

The rest of your baby's items, like additional clothing, blankets and more, can go in your checked bag. If you're checking more than one bag, split your baby's items among different checked suitcases. That way you'll be covered if the airline loses one of your suitcases.

Know the security regulations and have a backup plan

On a recent call to Iberia Airlines , I was told I could bring "reasonable quantities" of formula and breast milk through security. However, the representative also told me that in some cases during security checks, certain agents might not allow me to pass these items through security at the Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) . What?

Not all security checks, Transportation Security Administration agents or customs agents are alike, and each country, airport or airline may have specific regulations. Call ahead of time and prepare for things to not go as planned. If you do use formula, take your bottles already mixed, but also bring extra powder in case you need to prepare new bottles on board.

If you're pumping, it might also be a good idea to bring both a hand pump and an electric pump in case you have limited access to electricity or encounter issues with electrical outlets or voltage when traveling internationally.

Arriving at the airport early is always a good idea, because you may not breeze through security as you might have in your pre-baby days. Everything takes longer with an infant, so having that extra time can ensure a low stress travel experience. Take advantage and board the airplane first to give you extra time to get settled. If your airport has a family security line, use it.

Make sure you understand any remaining COVID-19 regulations

As mask rules and COVID-19 testing, entry and vaccine regulations continue to evolve in countries around the world, stay on top of exactly what you need to know and bring for your baby to get to your destination (and back home again). It's important to understand whether you'll need masks for your 2-year-old or need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 tests upon arrival at your destination or re-entry into the U.S. when traveling abroad.

Remember that airline staff members also struggle to keep track of ever-changing rules, so if you know something has recently changed or a rule seems specific, make sure to bring along proof of this information and whatever documentation you need in case you have trouble when boarding.

Photocopy important documents and always have extras. I loathe having to take paper documents along when traveling. However, having them may mean the difference between getting through customs, being able to board or being stranded at the airport. This is especially true if your phone battery dies or you're left without service for any reason. While being denied boarding is always dramatic, it's even worse with a baby in tow.

Download the right apps

Mobile phone apps can help you anticipate what you need, as well as keep your baby (and yourself) comfortable during travel.

A white noise app is key for better sleep for your baby — and therefore better sleep for parents — and allows you to leave a white noise machine home. Nightlight apps are also helpful during travel.

You can also connect most modern baby monitors to your phone and use an app to access the video of your baby so you won't need a separate viewing device.

Parents may find an app to track sleeping and feeding especially helpful during travel, particularly when switching time zones. A general packing app could help you keep track of what you need to bring for your infant, as well as the entire family. Make sure these apps are accessible offline if you need them while flying.

Don't forget their passport

This one is obvious, but you'd be surprised. Don't forget your baby's passport when traveling.

Look into identity and consent documents, as each country has its own requirements, especially if your partner isn't with you. If you have any older children, make sure to check that their passports are valid, as children's U.S. passports expire in just five years.

Traveling with a baby might seem like a lot. However, once you get the hang of it, packing, prepping and traveling with your infant becomes second nature. Ask for help when you need it and accept help when offered.

And when things don't go quite right, stay relaxed (remember, baby can feel your moods) — you'll figure it out. While it may seem tragic in the moment (like that major diaper blowout on board a plane), it will be an epic story to share one day.

Bottom line

When in doubt, bring enough baby supplies for a few extra days or a flight delay, but don't overpack. Make sure to be clear on any and all regulations that will cover your travel, from having the right documents to understanding what baby items you can bring through airport security . With these tips, packing and traveling will be a more enjoyable experience for the entire family .

10 Best Vacuum Storage Bags of 2024

Our top picks will increase your closet and suitcase space in minutes.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Our top picks:

Best Overall

Spacesaver vacuum storage bags.

GONGSHI Vacuum Storage Bags

Best for Travel

Ziploc space bag.

Top-Seller on Amazon

Cozy essential vacuum storage bags.

Best Variety Pack

Hibag vacuum storage bags.

Best for Bedding

Hefty shrink-pak vacuum storage bags.

Best for Stacking

Storage master jumbo vacuum storage bags.

Best Extra-Large

Vacwel vacuum storage bags.

Best Hanging

Taili hanging vacuum storage bags.

The best vacuum storage bags make the most of your space by removing the air inside and sealing it tight. Many use a vacuum or hand pump to suck out all the air, while some travel-friendly space bags can actually be hand-pressed shut. Because of this, they're great for packing out-of-season clothes, bedding and more into small spaces like under your bed or inside your suitcase .

After consulting our in-house experts and scouring online reviews, we've rounded up the best vacuum storage bags to shop on Amazon, starting at just $8 (with fast, free shipping to boot!).

The original Spacesaver vacuum storage bags are our top pick for heavy-duty storage needs where damage protection is imperative, like cross-country moves and travel. You can use either the included hand pump or your vacuum to reduce volume by up to 80%, according to the brand. Choose from small to jumbo sizes and variety packs for all your storage needs.

Reviewers appreciate its ease of use and sturdy plastic . "I'm moving all the way across the country and was stressed out wondering how much of my clothing I could actually take with me. These Space Saver bags are a life saver!" wrote one five-star reviewer . "They are so easy to pack, zip and vacuum out the air. One of my best purchases ever here on Amazon (and I've made thousands)."

Stow bulky bedding, sweaters, pillows and more with these space-saving storage bags. You can either use the included hand pump or a standard vacuum cleaner to compress each bag and reduce volume by up to 80%, according to the brand. For under $20, this pack comes with four bag sizes to store different items: the smallest size fits six to eight sweaters while the largest fits a queen-sized bedding set.

The triple-sealed valve is designed to keep bags airtight so your items stay condensed, and the double-layered material is designed to be puncture- and scratch-resistant, making it more durable against damage. "They're strong and sturdy," one Amazon reviewer said . "They have great sizes and storage space, and they hold the seal (some for a year now)."

Skip the checked luggage line at the airport with these travel-friendly storage bags. Forté named the Ziploc Space Bag a long-standing Lab favorite. There's no need for a pump or a vacuum to take the air out — simply fill each with up to five pounds of clothing or bedding, seal it with the Ziploc slider and fold to press out the air. It also costs under $10 for a pack of two.

Since they don't require any bulky equipment, these bags are a great option for users on the go. The brand claims the bags reduce the volume of clothing and bedding by up to 75%. They're also waterproof and airtight per the brand, meaning they should help protect your items from damage caused by travel and storage.

Boasting more than 38,000 five-star reviews and counting, Amazon's #1 best-selling space saver bags claim to shrink the size of your items by up to 80%. This variety pack includes 20 bags, making them great for anyone moving houses or with lots of vacuum storage needs. The pack includes standard vacuum-sealable bags as well as travel bags that can be rolled to press out air — no pump required.

Waterproof and reusable (purported by the brand), the bags' valves and seals are designed to prevent expansion and keep moisture and debris out. "The quality of these bags is outstanding," one online shopper wrote . "I feel confident storing my clothing, bedding and other textiles knowing they are safe and well-preserved."

Whether you need to increase your under-bed storage space or condense your clothes on the go, this pack offers the most variety with six different-sized bags for all your needs . The standard bags range from pouch-sized bags for lingerie and T-shirts to extra-large bags for bedding sets and pillows . Each waterproof bag has a handy line to show you where to stop filling them, making it more intuitive to pack than other options on our list.

While it can be sealed with the included hand pump or a vacuum, we love that the travel bags can be rolled to seal out excess air sans tool if needed. "These were a game changer during our move," an Amazon reviewer wrote . "The sizes vary drastically, accommodating many different types of items from quilts to pillows as well as clothes."

Hefty is known for its durable garbage bags and freezer bags, but the brand also has a line of high-rated vacuum storage bags. Including three large and three extra-large sizes, Hefty's Shrink-Pak bags claim to be waterproof and reusable season after season, so you don't have to worry about moisture, dust or bugs ruining your items. Plus, you can simply press the air out with your hands and seal.

We love how the extra large bags have a zipper on the long side rather than the shorter top, making it easier to pack bedding supplies like pillows and comforters. Shoppers agreed, with one writing : "We just went through a very long, drawn-out move and the shrink bags have been a true lifesaver! We were able to put lots of our clothes, towels and blankets in storage while we shopped for a new house. When we finally started unpacking, everything looked exactly the way it did when it was packed!"

Outfitted with a stylish plaid print, we wouldn't mind keeping these space bags out in plain sight. And it's not just for aesthetics. Their unique woven texture provides a bit of grip to their exterior, helping them to stay in place better while stacked. The bags come in four sizes and packs of six to 26, making them great for small organization projects and large undertakings.

Plus, they compress with a vacuum or its included pump. Reviewers appreciate the variety of sizes and ease of use, too. "I love these sealable storage bags!" one shopper wrote . "The quality is fantastic, very well-made and sturdy. I really like the assortment of colors and sizes, too, so much so that I ordered a second box!"

If you need to store cumbersome items like king-sized duvets, foam cushions or dog beds , Vacwel's XXL bags offer an impressive storage capacity of 47 by 35 inches . Featuring a nylon lining for extra durability, the brand claims these bags are waterproof and protect against dirt, bugs and dust. They even come with sticker labels to easily identify stored items.

"These bags are durable and got the job done," an Amazon shopper added . "I was able to vacuum seal large comforters and sheets! Very surprised at how many bedding items that I was able to put in the bags." Note that a pump is not included, so you'll need a vacuum handy to seal these bags.

Protect your out-of-season garments and make room for new pieces with these clever hanging storage bags on Amazon. You can stash up to five pieces of clothing inside each, including coats, jackets and suits . Just place one included hanger on each rotating ring, zip it up and vacuum all the air out. The vertical storage design keeps your clothes clean and organized until you're ready to wear them again.

"I get immense joy out of packing away my winter clothes in the Taili hanging bags," an Amazon reviewer said . "[It] shrink wraps everything into compact boards ... It was very easy and effective to use."

How we chose the best vacuum storage bags

With so many different options on the market, it can be difficult to determine which vacuum storage bags are worth buying. To help you find the right pick for your needs, we consulted our experts in the GH Institute Cleaning Lab and vetted customer reviews to bring you a range of vacuum storage bags that suit a variety of purposes.

How do you choose the best vacuum storage bags?

Choosing the best vacuum storage bags depends on your individual needs — do you just need to store a few seasonal sweaters, or pack up your whole house for a move? According to, the size and dimensions can help you figure out which options are right for you.

" They should be large enough to hold multiple items and be durable enough to use from year to year ," Forté says. For those who don't own a vacuum (or have one readily accessible), opt for a bag that can be rolled to compress or can be hand pumped.

What do you put in a space bag?

While you might want to use your vacuum storage bag to compress bulky items like winter coats and duvets, Forté warns against vacuum-sealing down-filled items . Instead, she recommends only compressing them halfway.

"Otherwise, you risk crushing and breaking the down feathers and they may then not be as lofty or insulate as well," Forté says. Additionally, be sure not to store wet items, or you risk creating mold and causing long-term damage.

How long can you store items in a vacuum storage bag?

Forté recommends using storage bags for short-term and seasonal storage . "Keep items in them too long, and you risk permanently setting creases or crushing and flattening items that are supposed to be lofty and puffy," Forte says. For best results, be sure to check the recommended storage time on your bag's instructions.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Associate Commerce Editor Lauren Gruber put together this list of the best vacuum storage bag picks, based on insights and recommendations from Carolyn Forté .

Forté brings more than 40 years of experience as a consumer products expert to her role as executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Home Care and Cleaning Lab. Using deep analytical testing and writing expertise in appliances, cleaning, textiles and organizational products, she oversees all of GH's cleaning and home care product testing.

Lauren is a Brooklyn-based journalist and Associate Editor at Hearst. You can find her previous work at Entertainment Tonight , Shop TODAY , USA Today , Self Magazine , L’Officiel USA , V Magazine, and Modern Luxury Media . 

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BARK Air, the first airline catering specifically to dogs, is booking flights now

(Gray News) – Welcome to BARK Air, the world’s first air travel experience designed specifically for dogs.

In a news release from April, BARK Air said it is focused on putting dogs’ travel needs first and their human companions’ needs second, “enabling them to travel together comfortably and conveniently.”

BARK Air comes from the company BARK, known for its monthly subscription BARK Boxes that send toys and treats.

BARK is partnering with a jet charter company to make BARK Air a reality.

“Too often, dogs are denied travel, confined to a duffle bag, or endure the stress of flying in cargo,” the news release said. “Recognizing these challenges, and the increasing demand for an accessible solution, BARK Air presents a more fun – and humane – option for dogs traveling with their two-legged human companions.”

The goal of BARK Air is to treat dogs like first-class passengers.

Following booking, flyers will be contacted by a concierge to collect information about their dog to create a custom travel plan to ensure the best possible flight experience.

When checking in at the airport, flyers will only have to arrive 45 to 60 minutes before their flight for a simple check-in process – no crates, TSA checkpoints, or screening. The dogs will meet other furry friends on the flight.

Prior to boarding, dogs will receive flight prep with calming pheromones, music, and colors that pups prefer. All pet passengers will have access to various aids such as calming treats, noise-canceling earmuffs, and calming jackets to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable flight.

During the flight, dogs will be served treats, beverages, and other surprises “with the intent of pampering furry passengers and their humans.”

Flights are available to book now, with the first flight taking off from New York on May 23.

Initial flight routes will serve the New York City metro area via Westchester County Airport with flights to the Los Angeles area via Van Nuys and London, England via Stansted Airport.

The company hopes to expand further.

For more information about BARK Air and booking, visit DogsFlyFirst.com and follow their Instagram @barkair .

Copyright 2024 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

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