Deliberately Minimal: How To Pack Light with Toddlers
Traveling with a toddler can be a daunting task, beginning with where to go to keep them entertained, what to pack (and how to pack light with toddlers!), and hoping against hope that you have some semblance of relaxation and enjoyment while you’re away.
Pro Tips for Packing Light With a Toddler
Pack light
It definitely makes a difference–from less weight to lug around at the airport to minimizing the morning outfit battles (anyone with me there??) But packing light with a toddler requires careful planning, smart organization, and a few key strategies to make sure you have everything you need. Here are some tips to help you pack light when traveling with a toddler:
Plan ahead
Assuming you know where you’re going, start your packing process early and plan what you will need for your trip (if you don’t yet know where to go, check out our article on fun travel with toddlers!) Consider the destination, climate, and activities you will be doing. Make a list of all the essentials you need to bring, including clothing, toiletries, and medications. Then, evaluate which items are absolutely necessary and which can be left behind.
Use a packing checklist
A packing checklist can be a lifesaver when traveling with a toddler. Make a list of all the items you need to pack and check them off as you go. This way, you won't forget anything important and you can keep track of what you've already packed.
Choose versatile clothing
When packing for your toddler, choose clothing that can be mixed and matched. This will allow you to create multiple outfits with fewer items. Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics that are easy to wash and dry, and consider packing items that can be worn in layers to accommodate changes in temperature.
Consider the weight and size of items
When packing for a toddler, it's important to consider the weight and size of each item. Bulky items like strollers, car seats, and high chairs can be rented at your destination to save space and weight. If you do need to bring these items with you, consider using a lightweight or collapsible version.
Pack snacks and drinks
Pack a variety of healthy snacks and drinks for your toddler to enjoy during the trip. This will not only keep your child satisfied, but it can also save you money on expensive airport or gas station snacks.
Keep most of your snacks in an overhead bag, which you can continue to dole out during your trip, but keep a few favorites by your side in case a hangry toddler needs a bar or a pouch on the run.
Utilize packing cubes
These are a total game changer. As much as you may be able to pack light, do it, but for those trips that require being prepared for different types of weather or activities, packing cubes are the best. They are a great way to organize your belongings and maximize space in your luggage. Use them to separate clothing, toiletries, and other items, and to keep everything in its place during the trip. At the end, at least one can be used to keep dirty laundry separate from the rest (if anything hasn’t been totally covered in food and dirt :)
Bring a lightweight carrier or stroller
If you plan to do a lot of walking or exploring during your trip, consider bringing a lightweight carrier or stroller. This will allow you to easily transport your toddler without adding extra weight to your luggage.
Limit toys and entertainment
While it's important to keep your toddler entertained during the trip, try to limit the number of toys and entertainment items you bring. Consider downloading movies or shows onto a tablet or phone instead of bringing multiple devices. Pack only a few favorite toys, books, or games that your child can play with during the trip.
Great compact travel games:
Floss & Rock Magic Color Water Cards
Use one small bag to keep essentials on-hand and pack the rest away
A carry-on that goes above your seat or under the seat in front of you on a plane is a great place to keep extras, but having a small bag like a Kibou on you (or in the front seat if you’re taking a road trip) makes it easy to grab the essentials and go. From airplane bathrooms to rest stops on the road, it’s great to have those items ready to go.
How can you pack light with a toddler with your Kibou?
Let’s start with what you should include in your Kibou or other small diaper bag to have on hand at all times:
- 2 Diapers or pull-ups
- Wipes
- Diaper rash cream
- Changing pad (built into the Kibou)
- Hand sanitizer
- 2-3 snacks (think: bars or pouches)
- Pacifier (if applicable)
- Spare onesie or pants
- Disposable bag for storing dirty items
General Packing List (Toddlers and Big Kids)
Clothing:
- 2 more sets of clothing than days you’ll be away– including shirts, pants, and shorts (if you can do laundry, then pack outfits for ⅔ of the # of days)
- Pajamas
- Socks and versatile shoes
- Swimwear (if applicable)
- Light jacket or sweater for layering
- Sun hat
Toiletries:
- Diapers (if applicable) and wipes
- Changing pad
- Diaper rash cream
- Sunscreen
- Baby wash and shampoo
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Hairbrush or comb
Feeding:
- Bottles, sippy cups, or breast pump (if applicable)
- Formula, breastmilk, or snacks
- Bibs
- Utensils (if applicable)
Entertainment:
- Favorite toys, books, or games
- Tablet or phone with downloaded movies or shows (if applicable)
- Small blanket or stuffed animal for comfort
Miscellaneous:
- Lightweight stroller or carrier
- Pack n' Play or portable crib (if applicable)
- Car seat (if applicable)
- First-aid kit with basic medical supplies such as band-aids and fever reducer medication
Remember, this is just a basic list and may vary depending on your destination and specific needs. Be sure to add any additional items that you think you may need for your toddler or big kid during your travels.
Planning a beach vacation with a toddler?
Here’s how to pack light with toddlers or bigger kids:
Toddler Beach Packing List
Clothing:
- Swimsuits and cover-ups
- Shorts, t-shirts, and tank tops or dresses
- Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
- Sun hats and/or sunglasses
- Sandals or flip flops
- Sneakers (for hiking or walking on rocky terrain)
Beach gear:
- Beach towels
- Beach bag or tote
- Beach umbrella or sun tent (if you can’t borrow or rent at your destination)
- Beach chairs or beach mat (same with above)
- Cooler or insulated bag with ice packs
- Waterproof phone case
- Water shoes (for rocky or hot sand beaches)
Toiletries:
- Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
- Aloe vera gel (in case of sunburn)
- Insect repellent
- Lip balm with SPF
- Body wash/shampoo
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Hairbrush or comb
- Glasses (if applicable)
Entertainment:
- Books, magazines, or e-readers
- Portable speakers for music
- Frisbee, beach ball, or other beach games
- Sand toys for kids
- Snorkeling gear or boogie boards
Miscellaneous, mostly for parents:
- Cash and credit cards
- ID and travel documents (passport or driver's license)
- Prescription medications
- First-aid kit with basic medical supplies such as band-aids and antiseptic
- Reusable water bottles
Planning to go to a national park with kids?
A solid packing list is important.
National Park Trip Packing List with Kids
Clothing:
- Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots
- Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities
- Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
- Rain jacket or poncho (depending on the weather forecast)
- Sun hats and/or sunglasses
- Socks and underwear
- Swimwear (if applicable)
Toiletries:
- Diapers (if applicable) and wipes
- Changing pad
- Diaper rash cream
- Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
- Insect repellent
- Hand sanitizer
- Baby wash and shampoo
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Hairbrush or comb
- Glasses (if applicable)
Feeding:
- Snacks and finger foods
- Sippy cups or bottles
- Formula or breastmilk (if applicable)
- Baby food or purees (if applicable)
- Utensils and bibs (if applicable)
Entertainment:
- Books or toys to keep your toddler occupied during travel
- Hiking backpack or carrier
- Lightweight stroller
- Binoculars to spot wildlife
- Magnifying glass or bug jar for exploring nature
- Outdoor games like frisbee or a ball
Miscellaneous:
- Lightweight camping gear (if camping)
- Daypack or backpack
- Reusable water bottles
- First-aid kit with basic medical supplies such as band-aids and fever reducer medication
- A map and guidebook to the park
- Compass or GPS device
- Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
- Camera or smartphone with a good camera
Remember, this is just a basic list and may vary depending on your destination and specific needs. Be sure to add any additional items that you think you may need for your toddler or big kid during your travels. Even after you’ve checked the weather, be prepared for unpredictable weather and changes in temperature. 
Heading to Disney with kids?
It's an exciting time for your family. And you want to be prepared for one of the most memorable trips.
Disney Packing List
Clothing:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities
- Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
- Rain jacket or poncho (depending on the weather forecast)
- Sun hats and sunglasses
- Socks and underwear
Toiletries:
- Diapers (if applicable) and wipes
- Changing pad
- Diaper rash cream (if applicable)
- Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
- Insect repellent
- Hand sanitizer
- Baby wash and shampoo
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Hairbrush or comb
- Glasses (if applicable)
Feeding:
- Snacks and finger foods
- Sippy cups or bottles
- Formula or breastmilk (if applicable)
- Baby food or purees (if applicable)
- Utensils and bibs (if applicable)
Entertainment:
- Books or toys to keep your toddler occupied during travel
- Stroller (Pro Tip: rental strollers are available at the park)
- Baby carrier or sling
- Small blanket or stuffed animal for comfort
- Autograph book and pen for character meet-and-greets
- Disney-themed clothing or costumes for photo opportunities
Miscellaneous, mostly for parents:
- Park tickets and identification documents
- Magic Bands (if staying at a Disney resort)
- Reusable water bottles
- First-aid kit with basic medical supplies such as band-aids and fever reducer medication
- Cash and credit cards
- Camera or smartphone with a good camera
- Portable phone charger
Purchase your Kibou fanny pack diaper bag today.
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