Packing Checklist for Travelling with Toddlers to Europe

Hey there, fellow Parents! 🌍✈️

Are you dreaming of a European adventure (or already booked a trip) with your little ones but feeling overwhelmed by the thought of packing? Trust me, I’ve been there! Travelling with toddlers can be a mix of excitement and chaos, but with the right preparation, you can make it smooth and enjoyable for everyone.

Here’s our packing checklist to help you get organised for your next European escapade with your tiny travellers. Let’s dive in!

1. Travel Documents

• Passports: Double-check expiration dates and keep them handy.
• Travel Insurance: Essential for peace of mind.
• Visas: If needed, depending on your destination.
• Printed Copies: Keep copies of important documents in your luggage.

2. Comfort Essentials

• Stroller/Baby Jogger: A lightweight, foldable stroller is a lifesaver for those long walks and out and about nap times.
• Carrier/Wrap: Great for navigating crowded places and keeping your hands free.
• Blankets: Cozy and familiar for naps on the go.
• Comfort Toys: Bring their favorite snuggle buddy to soothe them during the trip.

3. Clothing

• Layered Outfits: Europe’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers.
• Comfortable Shoes: For both you and your toddler, especially for those cobblestone streets.
• Weather-Appropriate Gear: Sun hats, sunglasses, and lightweight raincoats.
• Pyjamas: A couple of pairs for cozy nights.

4. Feeding Essentials

• Snacks: Lots of them! Easy-to-carry snacks like crackers, fruit pouches, and cereal bars. Always have them packed in your bag!
• Water Bottles: Familiar drinking vessels to keep your toddler hydrated.
• Portable High Chair/Booster Seat: Handy for mealtime at restaurants – we relied on restaurants having these while we ate out. We tried to pack light and opted out in bringing one.
• Bibs and Utensils: A few bibs and toddler-friendly cutlery.

5. Hygiene and Health

• Nappies and Wipes: Pack enough for the journey and the first couple of days.
• First Aid Kit: Include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, thermometer, nail clipper and any medications your toddler might need (we always travelled with Pamol).
• Hand Sanitiser: Essential for those public restrooms.

6. Entertainment

• Books and Toys: A few small toys and books to keep them entertained – Florence loves stories, so we tried to pick the slim paper back books which were easier to pack.
• Phone and Headphones: Florence doesn’t get a lot of screen time but we did download audio stories of Disney and Peppa pig on Spotify for those long waits and flights.
• Coloring Books and Crayons: Great for quiet time.

7. Sleep Essentials

• Portable Crib/Travel Cot: If your accommodation doesn’t provide one.
• Sleep suit/sack: We use one for home and brought one on our trip to put over pyjamas.
• White Noise Machine: Familiar sounds to help them sleep anywhere.

8. Miscellaneous

• Travel Guide/Itinerary: Keep a copy of your plans and important contacts.
• Reusable Bags: For dirty laundry and wet items.
• Camera: Capture all those precious moments!
• Carseat: We used public transport to get around or if we hired a car we also hired a carseat. We didn’t want to carry around a carseat and planned our trip so we only needed to hire one for certain trips.

Tips for a Stress-Free Trip:

• Pack Early: Start packing a few days in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
• Involve Your Toddler: Let them pick a few toys or outfits to take along.
• Stay Flexible: Embrace the unexpected and go with the flow.

Remember, you’ve got this! Travelling with toddlers can be challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. With a little preparation and a lot of patience, you’ll create beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.

Bon voyage! 🌟