What to pack for baby's vacations?

The first vacation with baby: a long-awaited moment, even more so this year as the family expands. These getaways will undoubtedly be engraved with fond memories... provided they are well prepared. Between the excitement and the logistics, the questions come thick and fast. And to limit stress, there's one watchword: OR-GA-NI-SA-TION.

The personal suitcase? No problem, it's been tried and tested for years. But the baby's suitcase is another story! So, what should you pack for a carefree vacation with your little one? Here's a practical, step-by-step guide so you don't forget anything.

Clothes to pack in your suitcase

Choose light, comfortable fabrics like cotton, perfect for hot weather and easy to care for (long live iron-free fabrics!). Whatever the length of your stay, remember to bring at least :

• 7 bodies
• 7 tops (t-shirts, blouses...)
• 7 bottoms (shorts, pants or skirts)
• 7 pairs of socks
• 2 cardigans or sweaters
• 2 pyjamas
• Several bibs (minimum 1-2 per day)
• Diapers (ultra-practical for wiping a mouth, protecting a mattress or improvising a sunshade).
• 2 bathing capes or aprons

With this base, you can go a week without running the machine. And as baby soils easily, this small stock means you can anticipate the unexpected. In the event of frequent regurgitation, it's best to double the number of diapers: plan for 2 outfits per day to avoid being caught unprepared.

👉 Little extra tip: if possible, choosing accommodation equipped with a washing machine can considerably lighten your suitcase... and your stress. You can wash on the spot and leave with fewer clothes.

The special baby first-aid kit

Indispensable and not to be mixed up with your own. Slip in:

• Usual medications: Doliprane, vitamins, Dolodent/Camilia, saline.
• Biseptin-type disinfectant
• Sterile compresses and plasters
  
• Dressings
• Antidiarrheal solution (Ultra Baby or equivalent)
• Soothing anti-mosquito cream
• Tube of Biafine
• Thermometer
• The health booklet - always on hand for medical consultations

A quick trip to the pharmacy before departure can also be useful for personalized recommendations depending on the destination.

To protect it from the sun

Even in the shade, baby's skin is fragile. To avoid any risk :

• A wide-brimmed hat or bob
• Appropriate sunglasses
• A special baby sunscreen
• A UV 50 tent for the beach or at least a good parasol

Childcare essentials

For walks

A stroller or baby carriage are often the first reflexes. But a sling can also prove invaluable: less cumbersome, soothing, perfect for short errands or impromptu walks.

For sleep

An umbrella bed remains the safest choice. For the little ones, the stroller's carrycot may suffice for a few nights.

For bathing and changing

A sponge bath lounger works wonders: lightweight, compact, and ideal in a shower or bathtub. A small inflatable bathtub may also be a good option.

When it comes to changing your baby, a travel changing mat is a must: waterproof and easy to clean, it allows you to change your baby anywhere (in the stroller, on a beach towel, in the car...).

For meals

If baby can sit up, a "comfort" chair booster is ideal for family meals. If you're a minimalist, a more compact nomad version will do the trick.

The changing bag: a daily ally

Whether you're on the road or out and about, your baby's diaper bag shouldn't be neglected. It deserves our full attention during preparation. In fact, you'll find a complete article on the essentials of a travel diaper bag on our blog.

Before you leave: a few things to check

Logistics

If possible, take out travel assistance and pay with a credit card that offers cancellation insurance. Ask your accommodation for a precise list of available baby equipment: this can help you avoid taking an umbrella bed or high chair with you unnecessarily. And if there's a washing machine on site, even better!

Health

A visit to the pediatrician before departure is always reassuring. It allows you to take stock and obtain the necessary prescriptions. It's also a good idea to check the vaccination schedule: it's best to anticipate vaccinations if a booster is due just after your return... but not the day before departure, as some vaccines can cause a fever within 48 hours.

A tip that changes everything

The "suitcase within a suitcase": a flat-bottomed canvas bag or clothes pouch (ideally with a transparent or mesh top). It allows you to compartmentalize baby's belongings in the main suitcase, then easily install it in a chest of drawers once you're there. Muji offers a very practical version, still available today.