Baby Holiday Packing List
The complete checklist for travelling with a baby or toddler. Tick items off as you pack, and print the list to stick on your fridge.
This list covers the essentials for a 7-10 day holiday with a baby or toddler (roughly 6 months to 3 years). Adjust quantities based on your trip length and whether your hotel has laundry facilities. Items marked with a tip icon have extra advice -- tap to expand.
Travel essentials
0/8Many countries require 6 months validity. Check your baby's passport well in advance.
Make sure the policy covers babies and toddlers specifically.
Many airlines let you check a car seat for free. Worth bringing your own for hygiene and fit.
Gate-check your buggy at the aircraft door. Some hotels like Almyra offer buggies on-site.
Essential for hilly resorts, beach access stairs, and cobblestone villages.
Feeding
0/8Some resorts like Martinhal provide sterilisers in-room. Check before packing yours.
Your brand may not be available abroad. Pack extra in case of delays.
Most family hotels provide high chairs, but check in advance.
Sleep
0/6Pack one lighter tog for warmer destinations. Most hotels provide cots but not sleeping bags.
Pack a spare if your child has a favourite. Losing it abroad is a holiday-ender.
A phone app works, but a portable machine means your phone stays free.
Mediterranean summer means daylight until 9pm+. These are a game-changer.
Some hotels like Martinhal provide monitors. Check your hotel's baby equipment list.
Hotels provide sheets, but packing a familiar-smelling one can help with sleep.
Clothing
0/9Pack one outfit per day plus two extras for messy meals and pool accidents.
UPF50+ Legionnaire-style hats stay on better than bucket hats.
Sun and pool
0/7Mineral/physical sunscreens are gentler on baby skin. Apply 30 minutes before sun exposure.
Some hotel baby pools are very shallow and may not need one.
Essential if your hotel's beach has limited shade.
Useful for rocky beaches and hot pool surrounds.
Health and hygiene
0/11Pack enough for the journey and first couple of days. Buy the rest locally to save luggage space.
Brand names vary by country. Bring your own supply from home.
DEET-free formulas are recommended for under-2s.
Frequently asked questions
How many nappies should I pack for a baby holiday?▶
Pack enough for the journey plus 2-3 days (around 30-40 nappies). You can buy the rest locally at supermarkets. This saves significant luggage space. Popular brands like Pampers are available across Europe, though sizes may be numbered differently.
Should I bring a car seat on holiday?▶
If you are hiring a car, bringing your own car seat is recommended for hygiene, correct fit, and peace of mind. Most airlines allow you to check a car seat for free. If you prefer to travel light, pre-book a car seat with your rental company, but quality varies.
What is the most important thing to pack for a baby beach holiday?▶
Sun protection: SPF50+ baby sunscreen, a UPF50+ sun suit, a hat with a chin strap, and a pop-up UV shade tent. Mediterranean sun is strong, and babies burn much faster than adults. Also pack travel blackout blinds for naps in bright hotel rooms.
Do hotels provide baby equipment?▶
It varies hugely. Premium family hotels like Martinhal provide sterilisers, baby monitors, bottle warmers, and even bath tubs in-room. Others provide only a cot. Check our hotel listings for specific baby equipment details, or contact the hotel directly before you go.
Packed and ready?
Now find the perfect baby-friendly hotel for your trip.
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