The Ultimate International Travel Packing Checklist for Families: What You Can't Forget to Bring!
- Alanna Gabbett
- Nov 22, 2024
- 16 min read
Updated: Apr 3
Traveling internationally with children is a mix of excitement and challenges. The joy of exploring new places comes hand-in-hand with the responsibility of packing everything you might need. A well-organized packing strategy can turn potential stress into family fun. Here’s a detailed packing checklist that helps families traveling with children on international flights. We’ll cover essentials, comfort items, and entertainment options to keep everyone happy.
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Important Travel Documents
Before you even think about packing clothing, start by ensuring you have all your important documents ready:
Passports:
You'd be surprised with how many people show up at the airport having forget the most essential item -their passport!
Don't forget to make copies, too—store them separately in case of loss.
Visas (if needed):
Depending on your country of origin and destination, a tourist or other visa may be necessary.
Make sure to check ahead on official government websites to find out the requirements for your destination to avoid last-minute surprises and delays.
While usually not mandatory, still make sure to print and make copies just in case.
Travel insurance information:
This can be a lifesaver if unexpected events arise.
We recommend searching for travel insurance on the Squaremouth website. Here we have found the best rates and the easiest way to adjust search filters to find an insurance plan that matches our specific needs.
**Note that travel insurance may not be a requirement in your particular destination, but in certain countries, it may be mandatory to show proof of travel insurance.
Flight tickets and itinerary:
Keep digital and printed copies of flights and activities just in case, for easy access.
Emergency contact numbers:
Have contacts for your country's embassy and local emergency services, as well as important family members and other emergency contacts.
Copies of children's birth certificates: You most likely won't need this but should any unexpected situations arise, it's important to have a copy.
**Never travel with the original documents
Copies of vaccine records:
This may not be a requirement for your destination but is of importance when traveling to certain destinations, particularly in the Middle East, Asia, and Africa.
We always recommend traveling with copies of children's vaccine records.
Copies of marriage certificate:
This is only recommended if traveling to certain countries where proof of marriage may be needed. For example, in Dubai, in most cases, non-married couples cannot rent a hotel room together. This may be vital if you are married and do not share a last name.
**Never travel with the original document.
Pack all essential documents in a secure folder or binder. Keeping them in one place ensures that nothing gets lost and makes it simpler to find them when necessary. Make and keep copies of every document, separating them in case of loss or theft.
Packing Essentials
Packing for an international trip can be stressful and there are so many products out there that advertise one thing or another. We've made it simple. These are the products that we personally take on every international trip and we guarantee they will make your trip smoother.
Packing cubes:
Packing cubes are a great option to keep your clothes organized, especially when dealing with items from multiple family members. Additionally, it helps ease the process of packing and unpacking by making it easier to find specific items.
We recommend the TravelWise Packing Cube System.
Roll-up compression bags:
Our favorite item when packing for a winter trip. Roll-up compression bags are easy to use, avoiding the hassle of having to bring a pump with you. They work wonders for compressing bulkier items like sweaters and jackets, to make more room in your suitcase. Additionally, they provide a layer of protection for your clothes against spills.
Our favorites are these Roll-up Travel Compression Bags.
Laundry bag:
Always bring a laundry bag to keep dirty clothes separate from your clean ones. This is especially important when traveling with kids who may have clothes dirtier than usual (i.e. jumping in mud puddles, toilet accidents).
When we stay in a location long-term, they also come in handy if we need to take the laundry across the city to a laundromat (yes, we have traveled on a city bus with a bag of laundry -haha).
These XL Laundry Bags are our favorites because they are extra-large and durable; they have held up in almost 25 countries so far, with no signs of wear.
Shoe bags:
No one wants their shoes touching their clean clothes. When packing pairs of shoes, it's important to keep them separated from other items in your luggage. Try these Set of 4 Shoe Bags.
Toiletry bag:
Bringing a toiletry bag is essential in keeping these smaller items contained and easy to find. A bonus is that it helps prevent spills and mess by keeping liquid items separate from clothes.
We love the Bagsmart Large Toiletry Bag because it has a hook so we can hang it behind the bathroom door at our accommodation. Simply pull the bag out of your suitcase, unzip it, and hang it up. When it's time to go, all you have to do is close the bag and throw it in the suitcase.
Kids ride-on luggage:
If you have a toddler, you know how important it can be to have ride-on luggage. Some airports are larger than others and little toddlers' legs get tired faster than ours. It makes it so easy to just pull them along on the way to the terminal. This is a particularly great option if you choose to forgo a stroller at the airport.
We love the JetKids by Stokke BedBox because not only is it a ride-on suitcase, but it transforms into a bed that fits a toddler perfectly in their plane seat.
Kids backpacks:
It's important that kids have their own small personal-item sized backpack for the flight. This keeps their toys, games, comfort items, extra clothes, and snacks separate and easy to access. We have these Simple Modern Toddler Backpacks that are the perfect size for our 4-year-old and qualify as a personal item on most airlines.
Insulated water bottles:
I can't stress how essential it is to bring a reusable water bottle on your travels. Firstly, it's a more environmentally sustainable way to hydrate yourself. Secondly, it's so much more cost-effective to fill up a water bottle from a free public fountain than it is to continue buying bottled water.
Our favorite is the Coldest Sports Water Bottle because they are insulated and keep water ice-cold for up to 36 hours!
For our kids, we always buy them each a Thermos Funtainer.
Day bag or crossbody:
Bring a small backpack, day bag, or crossbody bag that can fit all your daily essentials so that you can explore your new destination a bit easier. Rather than a bulky diaper bag, we use the Waterfly Crossbody Sling Bag to explore the city or hiking trails. It fits diapers, wipes, snacks, a bib, sunscreen, bug spray, hand sanitizer, pain reliever, copies of documents, a portable charger, wallet, sunglasses, and keys.
A bonus is that it qualifies as a personal item for most flights, so we have an extra bag for stuffing souvenirs on the way back home.
Travel pillow:
Some may not consider these essential but believe me, they can come in handy for long-haul flights. We like these ones because they are soft and adjust to support our head and neck the best.
Reusable grocery bags:
Particularly useful if you plan on grocery shopping at all, which we do quite often. Most grocery stores and markets in Europe don't offer plastic bags or charge a fee for them. In addition, if you attend local farmer's markets, they may not have bags either.
These Reusable Grocery Bags have held up remarkably well to over an entire year of full-time travel. They fold up to the size of your palm, making them a breeze to pack, and they hold an astonishing amount of weight (we really load them up sometimes!).
Freezable lunch or snack bag:
We always recommend bringing a freezable lunch and snack bag on your travels as it makes it super easy to pack a picnic lunch or refrigerated snacks for the kids. We use the Packit Freezable Lunch Bag and the Packit Freezable Snack Box.
Travel-sized umbrella:
Weather can be unpredictable and that's why it's important to pack a portable umbrella in case the situation arises. This Windproof Travel Umbrella is small and compact and has held up well over the last 2 years.
Clothing Essentials
Dress your family for both comfort and practicality by researching the weather in your destination ahead of time. Pack the right wardrobe that will maximize versatility, comfort, and ease of packing.
Outfits for each day:
On a shorter trip, plan for at least one outfit per day, plus a couple of extras, especially for little ones who are notorious for ruining outfits.
If you are traveling on a longer trip - such as a month-long journey, we recommend 7-10 outfits to save space, but you can do up to 10-14 if you have room. Plan on finding somewhere to do laundry once or twice, either at an Airbnb or local laundromat.
Comfortable clothing for the flight:
Breathable fabrics are a must. But make sure to bring an extra layer as it tends to get pretty chilly mid-flight. Don't wear large jackets, sweaters, or high heels. The goal is ultimate comfort, especially on overnight flights where you may want to sleep.
Dress children comfortably as well so they can sleep more soundly on the flight.
On our overnight flights, we always dress our kids in their pajamas and keep their day clothes in their backpack. Once we arrive at our destination, we usually change them in the bathroom at the airport.
Pack layers:
Layers are important for increasing comfort and maximizing versatility. Make sure to pack light jackets, cardigans, or sweaters that can easily be added to other outfits.\
Choose versatile clothing:
Always pack versatile clothes that are easy to mix and match. Avoid packing sets or busy and patterned outfits. The goal is to have more outfit combinations so you can pack less.
This also makes it easier dressing children each day and gives them more options if some clothes get ruined during the trip (which they always do!).
Specific items to pack:
A light rain jacket - weather can be unpredictable.
A fleece or warm sweater - again, weather can be unpredictable.
One pair of socks per day if wearing closed-toed shoes.
Enough underwear - one for each day plus a few extras.
A good pair of sneakers - comfortable with good tread for potential uneven terrain.
A modest outfit, scarf, or long skirt - important if you plan to visit churches, mosques, or other religious buildings.
In winter -hat, gloves, scarf, wool socks.
In summer - a bathing suit (always bring 2), a beach cover-up
Don't forget reusable swim diapers for kids - at least 2!
What NOT to pack:
Multiple pairs of shoes - trust me you won't wear them all.
Clothes that wrinkle easily - we have made this mistake more than once now.
White! This is especially relevant if you have kids.
Anything sentimental - things you can't afford to have soiled or damaged.
Clothing that isn't appropriate for the cultural norms of your destination - this will require some research on your part.
Toiletry and Personal Care
Essentials
Staying fresh and clean can greatly improve your family's travel experience. But don't worry if you forget something because in most cases you can purchase it at your destination.
Travel-sized toiletries:
Look for 3-ounce bottles for easy carry-on access.
Diapers and wipes:
Bring enough for the flight and the first day or two.
Sunscreen and insect repellent:
Especially important if you're heading to warmer climates or outdoor adventures. Depending on your location, these items may be more expensive to purchase on arrival, particularly at resorts.
Specific items to pack:
Shampoo
Conditioner
Body wash
A loofa or washcloth for each traveler
Deodorant
Hairbrush
Toothbrush for each traveler
Toothbrush holder for each traveler
Toothpaste
Dental floss
Any necessary hair care products - i.e. heat protectant or detangler
Skincare products - i.e. face wash, toner, moisturizer
Perfume or cologne
Shaving products
Tweezers and nail clippers
Makeup products and makeup remover
Lip balm, Vaseline
Diapers and wipes for kids
Dual voltage hair tools - flat iron or curling iron
You do not need to bring a hair dryer - most hotels and apartments provide them.
Entertainment Essentials
Boredom can lead to cranky kids, so pack plenty of engaging activities to keep them entertained in the airport, on the flight, and at your destination.
Include items such as tablets and iPads, coloring books, travel activity sets, storybooks, small toys, kid-safe headphones, and a portable charger.
Our favorite entertainment options for kids:
Health and Safety Essentials
Your family's well-being while traveling should always be a priority. Don't forget to pack these essentials to keep things running smoothly during your trip.
Any required medications and prescriptions:
Bring along any prescription medications and don't forget to include the original prescription label as well as a copy of it.
Additionally, when traveling with needles (i.e. for insulin) or controlled substances, always bring along a note from your doctor (make a copy of this as well).
When traveling through security, keep medications separate for easy identification by TSA officers.
It's important you always check official government websites for laws and restrictions on what medications can be brought into the country and the specific requirements.
First-aid kit:
Band-aids in multiple sizes
Antibiotic ointment
Anti-itch ointment
Gauze
A tourniquet
Alcohol pads
Hand sanitizer
A thermometer
Tweezers
Pain reliever - Tylenol and Motrin
Antihistamine/allergy medication - Benadryl and Zytec
Motion sickness meds/anti-emetic - Dramamine
Make sure to pack both the children's and adult versions of medication.
Additional items we pack:
Saline nasal spray
Nasal aspirator (for babies)
Kids nail clippers
Debrox
Lubricating eye drops
Sudafed
Pepto-Bismol
Baby and Toddler Gear
If you’re traveling with little ones, some extra preparation can help. From strollers, carriers, and car seats to baby bottles and snacks, there is a seemingly endless list of items that it would be devastating to forget.
Think about the ages of your children, your destination, and the type of travel you intend to do. This will help determine the items you deem as most important and vital to a successful vacation.
Stroller:
If you have little ones, we always recommend a stroller. Little legs get tired easily while exploring and it gives them a break. A bonus is that it's the perfect place for a nap while mom and dad explore the city sites.
We currently use the BabyZen Yoyo2, which has been a great addition to our travels. It is lightweight at only 13 pounds, folds up easily and compactly, and even has the option of a ride board. The Stokke Yoyo Board has made it so easy to navigate new locations with a baby and toddler and now a toddler and preschooler.
Baby carrier:
Even if you bring a stroller, we recommend to also bring a baby carrier. We always take both because you never know what situations may arise and it's best to be prepared for everything. We have frequently ditched the stroller at entrances to fortresses or castles in favor of using the baby carrier, which is why we always take it along in the stroller basket!
We have used the Ergobaby Omni360 for 4 years now. It has truly proven its worth, having been used with 2 kids and taken on adventures through over 20 countries now. It's super comfortable, even when used with our now 2 1/2-year-old, and it folds up compactly in our luggage.
Toddler carrier:
The Tula Toddler Carrier has been with us for over a year now and was such a great buy. This carrier can hold up to 60 pounds, which is perfect for carrying our now 4-year-old on long hikes and other adventures. So, if you have a larger toddler, or a 3–6-year-old, we highly recommend trying this out.
CARES harness system:
Instead of a car seat on the plane, we use the CARES Airplane Safety Harness. We love this FAA-approved 5-point harness for our kids. It straps around the backside of the seat and uses the airplane seat belt. It has worked great for our 2 1/2-year-old on our latest flights.
Be aware that only the original CARES flight harness if approved by the FAA as there are multiple duplicate products sold online that are not approved for use.
Car seat:
If you need a car seat at your destination, you can either rent one from a rental car or other agency or bring your own. Although we do not use a car seat on the plane for our 2 1/2-year-old, we do bring one along for rental cars.
RideSafer portable car seat:
For our 4-year-old, we prefer the RideSafer Compact Portable Car Seat rather than a car seat. 2-year-old
Travel potty seat:
When we first started traveling full-time, we were in the middle of potty training our oldest. Toddlers who are potty training or even those who are potty trained will benefit from a portable potty seat when overseas, especially since some toilets tend to be bigger. I remember our daughter being so afraid of falling in the toilet that she never wanted to use it. For that, this Folding Travel Potty Seat was perfect. It folds up compactly in its own carrying bag and was easy to pack on the plane, train, and use at our accommodation.
Diaper bag:
Don't forget to bring a diaper bag, small backpack, or crossbody that can carry any essentials you may need for your daily outings.
Long-sleeve bib:
We love bringing a long-sleeve bib along on our travels as it comes in handy when dining out, especially when having a messy meal (i.e. pasta).
The Twinkle Toes Mess-Proof Baby Bibs are our favorites because they fit both our 2- and 4-year-olds, are machine washable and easy to clean, and have a large pocket that tends to catch a lot of the food they drop.
Other baby essentials:
Make sure to bring other essentials tailored to your child. For younger babies, you may need extra clothes, a burp cloth, bottles, formula, baby food, baby utensils, diapers, wipes, a pacifier (bring at least 2, trust us!), baby utensils, comfort items, and bibs.
Snacks and spill-proof containers:
Of course, when traveling with kids, you can't forget snacks. Pack a variety of their favorite healthy snacks for munching on in the terminal, on the plane, and at your destination. Don't forget to pack them in Spill-Proof Snack Containers to limit messes.
Noise machine:
A white noise machine is another of our must-haves on our trips. Even though our kids are getting older, they still come in handy for flights, and nap times, and make it easy to drown out the noises of the city streets at night. We love the Hatch Rest-Go because it features 10 soothing sounds, has a long battery life, and comes with a clip for easy attachment to a stroller or bag.
Other items to consider:
A night light - not a must-have for us, but it may be for your child.
Portable crib or travel bassinet - although we don't recommend it. It's fairly simple to find a hotel or Airbnb that provides a travel crib or bassinet for a baby.
Miscellaneous Essentials
Beyond the basics, a few more items can enhance your travel experience:
Portable carbon monoxide detector:
We always recommend traveling with one of these, especially around Europe as we found out pretty quickly that having these in an apartment is not the norm. We have used this Carbon Monoxide Detector Alarm faithfully for 2 years now and it gives us peace of mind wherever we go.
Travel Adaptors:
Don't forget to bring travel adaptors for your specific location. You can buy multi-country adaptors, which are bulkier, or opt for a country-specific adaptor.
Our favorites are this 2-Pack European Travel Plug Adaptor and this Universal Travel Adaptor.
Charging cables:
One of the most important essentials not to forget are charging cables. These items are often forgotten and can sometimes be difficult to locate in your destination. Bring a charging cable for every electronic device in your suitcase, and maybe an extra or two. Make sure they can be used with the adaptors you've chosen to bring.
Camera and batteries:
Make sure not to forget your professional camera to capture all your memories. And bring an extra battery or two, just in case.
Laptop, iPad, or tablet:
Bring a laptop, iPad, or tablet for watching movies, playing games, and downloading vacation photos during your trip.
Noise-cancelling headphones:
Don't forget to bring headphones for the long flight. We prefer noise-cancelling ones like Apple AirPods. This is essential for being able to enjoy your favorite movies and shows during the flight. If you plan on using the in-flight screen, you can purchase the AirFly Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter, which will allow you to use your wireless headphones with the plane screen.
Travel straws:
Come in handy, especially for kids when dining out. Most restaurants will not provide straws, or provide paper straws, which do not last very long with kids.
We love this Stainless-Steel Reusable Straw Set because it comes in a handy case for taking along day-to-day.
Carabiners:
We always take a couple of these for attaching our water bottle or other items to our stroller, backpack, or other items.
Silicone bottle covers:
These are a recent find of ours and work wonders for preventing spills in our luggage. These Silicone Bottle Covers stretch to fit almost any size bottle. We have used them for shampoo bottles, face wash, drinks, and even laundry detergent bottles.
Reusable Ziploc bags:
These are great multi-purpose to carry snacks and other small items that need to be contained. Choose reusable options to be more environmentally sustainable. We love these Reusable Storage Bags.
Luggage scale:
And of course, don't forget your luggage scale so you never have to cross your fingers hoping your bag isn't too heavy at the check-in counter. We use the Amazon Basics Luggage Scale because it's affordable and works well.
Credit cards:
Although it's important to bring cash along on your trip, it's equally important to bring at least two credit cards as well. We always recommend carrying at least two credit cards in case one is lost, stolen, or is otherwise not working. Make sure the cards you use have no foreign transaction fees so you can use them freely overseas.
We personally always travel with a few travel credit cards as each one has different benefits that we use overseas. For example, we love our Capital One Venture X for airport lounge access, our IHG Premier for hotel stays and free nights, and our Chase Sapphire Preferred for 3X points on dining and groceries as well as the best rental car coverage.
Travel Made Simple
save this as your essential travel packing checklist!
Traveling with children can be a breeze with the right preparation. To pack for an international trip requires thoughtful consideration of both kids and adults.
We hope this ultimate packing checklist will help you efficiently pack for your journey, ensuring everyone has what they need, and you are fully prepared for the adventure ahead.
Focus on creating enjoyable memories instead of stressing over logistics. With all essentials packed, you're ready for a fantastic trip filled with exploration and fun. Safe travels!
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