If you’re traveling with your toddler this winter, what can you bring on your trip to maximize the fun and make your trip stress-free? Our list of essential toddler clothes and kids’ items will keep your little one comfortable and make preparations easier for your family. From their lovies to the comfiest winter outfits, pack smarter so you can enjoy your vacation and spend less time planning!
Booster Seats, Car Seats, and Strollers
Travel essentials like booster seats, car seats, and strollers will make your life easier as you head to your destination. Look for portable, lightweight products that easily fit on flights. Most models should last multiple trips, making these travel essentials worth the purchase. Bringing your stroller to a snowy location? Add a weatherproof cover or footmuff for colder temperatures.
Pack a car seat if you’re renting a car at another destination. Most airlines will let you check the seat like baggage so you can retrieve it at the end of your trip. A small carry-on or diaper bag with the trip essentials below will help keep you and your baby more comfortable.
Mess-Free Snacks and Feeding Supplies
Stress-free trip snacking involves easy and mess-free toddler food options. Think dried fruit, puffs, or crackers. Our kids love pretzels, cheese cubes, and applesauce pouches. Bring them in reusable containers with lids to organize snacks and prevent spills. Sippy cups are essential for drinking water, milk, or juice on your trip. Include a couple of bibs or burp cloths to keep your toddler dry while absorbing extra moisture on travel trays or car seats.
Cozy Blankets and Comfort Items
In our experience, blankets and comfort items are essential for a smooth and enjoyable trip for a toddler. A favorite blanket or lovey are familiar and provide a sense of security and consistency, especially in unfamiliar environments like a guest house or hotel. If you want to save your luggage space, blankets can double as a play mat or shield from chilly weather.
Choose small toys or books to relax toddlers on long car rides or flights. They’re also helpful for bedtime in new places. Crayons and coloring books are excellent for passing the time during a travel delay. Packing these small comforts is a simple yet effective way to keep little ones happy and content while on the go.
Comfy, Warm Toddler Clothing
When packing for a winter vacation with toddlers, we always prioritize cozy, cute, and weather-appropriate outfits for playing indoors and outdoors. Plan on having a couple of outfits per day in case of a mess or accident. You can start by packing soft, thermal base layers to keep your little one warm and comfortable. A long-sleeved bodysuit with comfortable, seasonless bamboo viscose fabric makes an excellent base layer for every occasion. Create a stylish two-piece outfit with bamboo long sleeves and matching leggings.
Pack sweaters, toddler hoodies, or thermal tops for extra warmth. Choose neutral or solid-colored pieces that go with everything to help you pack lighter. Jeans or fleece-lined pocket pants provide more insulation in chilly temperatures.
If you like the look of baby boy and baby girl rompers, the same winter style is available for toddlers. Layer these cute seasonal staples with a warm, ribbed long sleeve for coziness and a fashionable texture. Dresses with matching leggings can also give toddler girls a chic look.
Some families plan on exploring the outdoors or enjoying a snow day. No matter your activity plans, you can combat the elements with snug-fitting hats and waterproof gloves or mittens. Coats, jackets, or snow gear may be essential for your toddler’s safety and comfort, depending on your destination. Check expected weather conditions before you pack. Don’t forget to add footwear to protect your child from cold and moisture. Waterproof winter boots match with a variety of outfits.
Winter Pajamas and Bedtime Essentials
Every child needs at least a few pairs of pajamas for travel. Take it from an experienced traveler with toddlers – you may need more if you don’t have access to a laundry machine. Choose styles that fold easily and feel comfy in various temperatures. Zip-up bodysuits are an excellent choice for cold weather, especially when made of cozy ribbed fabric. Pack PJs made with bamboo viscose material to wick moisture and keep your baby comfortable.
Long-sleeved, two-piece pajamas are toddler favorites, especially since the style makes changing or using the restroom easier. Include a cozy matching blanket and matching lovies for blissful sleep. If your child is used to a white noise app or sound machine, bring it while you travel. Having the same sounds at night will help your toddler adjust to sleeping in a guest room or hotel.
Planning a Stress-Free Winter Trip for Your Family
No matter where you travel with your family this winter, a complete list of toddler travel essentials will make packing for a stress-free trip much more manageable. Bring your child’s favorite items with you, then take advantage of the style and versatility of toddler one-pieces. The same baby boy rompers and baby girl bodysuits you loved in the early days are also available in toddler sizes. Layer these pieces with sweaters, hoodies, and coats for fashionable indoor and outdoor looks.
