Travel can be such an enlightening experience for kids of all ages—new food, new experiences, new sights. Don't forget having quality family time. But traveling with kids can also be quite overwhelming. Think about unpredictable schedules, long packing lists, and very cranky children—it goes without saying that there are challenges you may encounter for the duration of the trip.

From long haul baby sleeping tips to eating on the go with a toddler in tow, we list down a few must-have items we recommend taking with you on holiday. After all, traveling with the little ones should be a memorable experience. Isn't that the point of going on vacation with the family in the first place?

Baby feeding must-haves for travel

You don’t have to travel with a baby to know that meals and snacks are an important part of any vacation! You’ll need to breastfeed or bring formula, of course, supplemented by solid foods once your little one has been introduced to solids at around six months. Good travel food for babies and toddlers can be anything they regularly eat—the point is to keep their tummy happy! It's also a good thing to bring a handy baby food maker if the little one's quite picky.

In case of emergencies

Accidents may happen. From skinned knees to bumps on the head to insect bites, your little ones will need some much-deserved TC. And rather than digging into your bag to find a bandage or an ointment, a first-aid kit is definitely a must!

While you're at it, consider adding a portable humidifier and/or sterilizer during your trip as well. They are not necessarily must-have baby items like some of the things on your list, but they can be good for the little ones.

Bring those essentials

Although your preparations for travel may reveal that hotels or accommodations offer some basic baby necessities, it’s best to bring as much as you can with you. For example, if a hotel offers cribs, unless you can guarantee that their baby cribs are up-to-date on safety requirements, it’s better to bring your own travel crib if you’re able to do so.

Other travel essentials for your baby include bottles, bibs, diapers and wipes, pacifiers, and so on. Keep these in a separate diaper bag for easy access as well.

Let the kids play

Bring a few favorite toys, knick-knacks, and a few baby gear to keep things interesting while you're on vacation with the kids.

Your little one is still getting used to the world around them, so it's good to have some reminders of home to soothe any discomfort when in unfamiliar places. A favorite plush toy, a familiar rattle, or a blanket with home scents can do wonders in keeping your babies and toddlers comfortable when traveling.

Keep the sleeping routine on track

Vacations can be quite tricky for baby sleep. You’re excited about your trip, but yo worry about bedtime and naps for the little one. Whether you're staying at a hotel or an AirBnB, there are certain tips you can do to replicate your baby's room and help the whole family get some much-deserved rest.

Bring anything you might need to make your baby’s sleep on the plane successful: sound machine (if it’s portable, but your phone can work in a pinch), sleep sack or swaddle, books, pacifiers, and bottles. Whenever you expect your little one to sleep, take your baby through a mini version of their normal sleep routine. If your sleep routine includes a bath, skip that part but still change their diaper, offer a feeding, read them a book, or whatever your routine steps are shortened down.

A quick guide on what to pack

Babies and toddlers require a lot of stuff. You already know that. Consider this packing list an overview of what you'd need when you arrive at your destination:

Most of all, remember that despite any challenges that arise, feeling part of a loving family is an incredible gift to give a young child. Take lots of pictures and videos, and enjoy this time together. These are the memories of a lifetime for your little one.