car travel with 4 month old baby

Road Trip with a 4 Month Old: Is It Possible?

• Date: July 18, 2022
• Time to read: 6 min.

Some babies love riding in the car and they fall asleep every time while some babies may cry. Planning a trip with a baby can be difficult, but road trips are one of the most flexible ways to travel. 

Four month old babies can be great road trip buddies. Plan to stop more frequently, about every 2 hours when traveling with a 4 month old. An adult should ride next to the baby to be sure that they are comfortable and breathing well. Pack plenty of clothes to keep the baby dry and be sure to grab diaper rash cream and a white noise machine.

It is important to stop every two hours and get your sweet baby out of the car seat. The main concern is positional asphyxia . 

Babies can slip down into their car seats into a position that makes it difficult to breathe.  Babies at 4 months may not be able to reposition themselves and it can cause trouble breathing. 

This is why it is important to have an adult ride next to the baby and to be sure to take them out of the car seat at least every 2 hours. 

If your baby was born prematurely or has other health issues, run this by your pediatrician . Ask them how long your baby can be in their car seat on a road trip. 

I recommend limiting overall car seat time to 6-8 hours a day. We take a lot of road trips and all my kids are pretty fried by the 6 hour mark. 

I will tell you the truth, 4 months is a tough time. They are no longer newborns, but they are not the curious 6 month old that can be distracted with toys. 

If I have a baby that cries in the car, do your best to schedule driving during baby’s nap or sleep times.

I do not recommend driving through the night because then when you arrive the baby is wide awake and the parents need a nap! This is a recipe for grumpy parents. 

There are a few tips that can make the trip easier on everyone. Here are all my best tips for a stress free road trip with a  baby. 

How long can a 4 month old travel in the car?

A four month old should not be in their car seat for more than 2 hours at a time. This is the recommendation from the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is recommended to avoid positional asphyxia, or trouble breathing due to their position in the car seat.  

If your baby is sleeping and there is an adult sitting next to them to monitor their breathing, you may choose to drive for longer than 2 hours. Use your best judgment and be sure to monitor the baby closely. 

I recommend that you plan to drive 6 hours or less in a 24 hour period , with breaks every two hours. This is just my opinion. 

While some families push to 8 -10 hours in a day, in my experience this is too much for young kids and babies. 

There are no strict rules for how many hours a day is safe, so keep a close eye on your amazing baby and stop when they are no longer consolable in the car seat. 

The American Academy of Pediatrics Travel Safety page has a few tips that you may want to check out before you hit the road. 

How To Plan A Road Trip With A 4 Month Old

Now you have to plan a trip with stops every 2 hours! How will you find places to stop that often?!

I think the best way to travel with young kids is to:

• Leave early in the morning
• Plan a long lunch stop
• Put in a few more miles before bedtime

If you travel 4 hours in the morning and then 2-4 more after lunch you will have a much more pleasant trip. It is also easier to plan one big stop. 

I have a one page road trip planner that you can print on the linked post. There are also some great tools that will help you divide up the trip easily. 

If you need ideas for places to stop check out the linked post, there are some creative ideas in that post. 

What to Pack for a 4 Month Old

When you are taking a road trip with a baby don’t feel guilty for overpacking, but if you forget something you can always stop.  

These are the must haves that I have found super helpful on road trips with a baby:

1. Blankets

Baby blankets are really helpful on a road trip as you can use them for:

Blocking bright sun

Wiping up spills

Covering a diaper changing table

A clean space for tummy time

An emergency diaper

I like to pack 2-3 a day for each day of the trip (or until I have access to laundry). It may seem like a lot, but I have never regretted packing this number. 

2. White Noise

Many babies like the car because the road noise provides that soothing white noise, but I have found that some of my kids need SUPER white noise, especially at this age. 

The noise of the road plus a portable white noise machine has been good for my irritable babies. 

We have had this portable white noise machine for over 4 years and it is still serving us well. Be sure to hold down the power button to turn it on (I tried to return it and the cashier showed me how it worked…oops). 

3. Extra Clothes for Mama

Be sure that you have a change of clothes that you can get to easily. Between car diaper changes, bottles or nursing and potential car sickness, a new outfit can make the trip much more comfortable for mama. 

An extra outfit or two for baby should also be in the baby bag. Keep baby dry to avoid any uncomfortable rashes. 

4. Your Regular Diaper Rash Cream

Be generous with diaper rash cream or other wetness barriers during diaper changes. Since your baby will be sitting in the car they may be more prone to painful rashes. 

I like to pack the cream that we use at home. It is not a good idea to try a new product while away from home. Even a mild reaction can be painful in the diaper area. 

5. Manual Breast Pump

Breastfeeding moms I think the manual breast pump is a necessity on a long trip. Four month old babies are often still feeding very regularly, but the car may make them too sleepy to nurse. 

This can make the ride uncomfortable with engorged breasts, and could lead to a clogged duct or painful mastitis. 

Pumping while you are driving allows you to relieve the pressure, maintain supply and possibly make bottles to use at stops if your baby enjoys bottles. 

Bringing bottles on a road trip can be a big hassle as there is no place to wash them. You can use pump cleaning wipes or wait to get to a sink. 

Short term I have used the pump to just pump and dump and wash the parts as soon as I can. A microwave sterilization kit can make it all cleaner. 

Expectations for Road Trips with a Four Month Old

Traveling with a baby is very different from traveling kid-free, but it can still be a memorable adventure. 

Keep an open mind and get excited about making frequent stops. You will enjoy the journey and get to see more than when you push through long travel days. 

Babies often make you think differently about the important things in life, slow down and enjoy the journey. 

• What Is a Good Budget For A Family Road Trip?
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Tips for Road Tripping with a Baby ( 0 – 12 Months) – A Complete Guide for First-Time Parents

Who says you cannot travel with a baby? Yes, it is different, but it is totally doable! One of the best ways to start traveling as a new family is by going on a road trip with a baby.

After one year of road trips with our son, we have learned a lot. From short 2-hour road trips to a 2-week long road trip – we have experienced the best and the worst parts of road tripping with a baby. 

Through personal tried and true experience, I have created this guide of “How to Road Trip with a Baby” to help new parents navigate their way as easily as possible. My guide includes product recommendations, expectations at different months of age, and 12 essential tips for road tripping with a baby.  

Full disclaimer: I am not a children’s practitioner, nurse, or expert. This guide and tips are purely from personal experience and fellow traveling parents. If you have any medical or health concerns, please seek advice from your pediatrician. 

Furthermore, This post may contain affiliate links. When you click on the link you will have the option to purchase a product at no extra cost to you, but I would receive a small commission. I want to thank everyone for following and supporting us on all of “Our Sweet Adventures.” 

Table of Contents

12 Essential Tips for Road Tripping with a Baby

First and foremost, EVERY BABY IS DIFFERENT!

Yes, I believe my guide can help first-time parents navigate their way to a successful road trip with a baby. However, what has worked for other parents and us, may not always work for you. Some tips may work, some may not – you will not know until you hit the road and go through trial and error.

We have found these 12 essential tips to be the most helpful during our road trips with a baby. Whether you are taking a road trip with a newborn, a 12-month-old, or any age in between – these tips can be helpful for any stage.

The Trifecta Checklist

Of all the tips for road tripping with a baby, this one is KEY! We call it the “trifecta checklist.” So what does that mean? Sleep, diaper, food.

If our son was crying, the first thing that helped us was to check for a diaper, see if he was hungry, and find out the last time he slept.

Nine times out of ten (especially before our son was 6-months-old), he would cry for one of those three reasons. He would immediately stop crying once we figured out if he needed a diaper change, a bottle, or sleep.

Moreover, the “trifecta checklist” is a great tip for traveling with a baby , period.

Plan For Several Stops

This brings me to my next tip – you will need to plan for several stops when road tripping with a baby. This is important and inevitable. Depending on your baby and their stage in life, you may need to plan a stop every 1 -3 hours.

Why? Because you need to give your baby breaks. The best way to take breaks is by incorporating fun activities, tours, or stops at cute little towns. As a family who loves to hike, we plan our stops around hiking places.

You also want to be prepared to carve out a couple of hours on your road trip for diaper changes, breastfeeding, and walks. Honestly, these stops are so healthy because a nice break is beneficial for both the parents and child when the baby gets fussy.

Plan for Itinerary Changes

With that said, you can also expect to change your itinerary. Going on a road trip with a baby is not always easy. You may get behind schedule. That is OKAY!

I recommend setting a goal for Plan A, knowing you most likely will end up with Plan B. This could mean taking an activity (or two) out of the day, going to a drive-thru instead of dining inside, taking the highway instead of a more scenic route, etc.

If planning road trips is daunting for you. Do not worry! There are awesome apps for road tripping planning that can help you.

Find Patience!

I am probably one of the most impatient people in the universe, but I had to find the patience to succeed when road tripping with a baby.

As you may have already gathered from my previous tips, a typical 2-hour road trip may take up to 4 hours. So take deep breaths, and remember it’s about the journey and the memories you create with your family. It is not a race to the finish line or, in this case, the destination.

Once you can find patience, your road trip with a baby will be so much more enjoyable.

Plan Driving Around Naps

If possible, plan the driving around your baby’s sleep schedule. We always try our best to drive 30 minutes before our son’s scheduled nap.

If you do not already keep track of your baby’s sleep schedule, now would be the time to start. Our favorite baby app is Huckleberry because it keeps track of sleep, feedings, medicine, and more.

Another tip for road tripping with a baby and their naps – pack a swaddle blanket with patterns and keep it in the car. We use swaddle blankets for three things. Of course, we use it to wrap our son, but we also use it for two road trip tips.

We place the swaddle blanket over the car seat to help provide more shade and a quiet space for our son to sleep while on the road. We also use it to keep our son calm and engaged by looking at the patterns. He would always stare and try to touch the patterns on the swaddle blanket.

Be Prepared to Pack MORE Than Ever!

My goodness, I think we had a full-sized suitcase packed to the top just for our son. From the 2 – 3 clothes per day to diapers, baby wipes, towels, and everything else – our son had more stuff than the two of us combined.

Not to mention, the car seat, the stroller, the pack-n-play… everything will quickly add up. So if you are renting a vehicle for the road trip, I suggest an SUV.

Pack the Car with Easy Access 

What is a road trip without snacks, right? I think this tip works for any road trip – make the snack bag easily accessible. More importantly, when road tripping with a baby, you want to make sure all the essentials are also easily accessible.

Whether that means a cooler with baby bottles, a bag of toys, or a diaper bag, you want to make sure you can easily reach these items.

Pack Extra Batteries

Today, so many of the best ways to keep a baby happy and calm require batteries. Therefore, you do not want to forget to pack extra batteries.

Before your road trip, check all electronics that require batteries and either replace them with new batteries or pack extra batteries for them.

Stretch and Massage Baby

Just like adults, a baby’s body and muscles will get stiff and sore after sitting in a car seat for long periods of time. So it is recommended to massage and stretch your baby when you take breaks or at night in your accommodations.

The benefits of massaging and stretching your baby are significant. It can help calm a fussy baby, ease tummy troubles, boost muscle development, and most importantly, soothe babies to sleep.

Baby Wipes are like Gold 

One of the most important things I have learned as a parent is that baby wipes are gold! We use baby wipes for EVERYTHING!

We use baby wipes to change diapers, clean spills in the car, wipe dirty hands, clean hard surfaces or utensils, and more. With that said, at least two stacks of baby wipes are essential when road tripping with a baby.

New Toys or Rotate Toys

Something we learned from the Montesorri Method is rotating toys. We do this at home and find it useful for road tripping with a baby.

Before a road trip, we will remove a few of our son’s favorite toys. Then when we are on the road trip, we reintroduce the toys (one at a time) so that the toys are “new,” exciting, and engaging. Of course, you can also buy new toys for a road trip.

It is essential to give the baby only one toy to focus on at a time. This way, when they get bored with one toy, there is a new one to play with because, let’s be honest, babies LOVE NEW things!

Music Matters!

Okay, this tip is from personal experience. I am not sure of any scientific research to prove this works, but it does for us – and I hope it does for you too.

During my pregnancy, I listened to this one trance album that I found calming and peaceful while I worked. Adam read that the music I listened to during pregnancy is what the baby would find relaxing after birth. It turns out it worked at least 80% of the time for us.

On our road trips, we would listen to this one trance album on repeat until our son was fast asleep. I swear it made our son calm and fall asleep almost every time.

Now, fast forward to when our son was 9 – 12 months old – things changed. Children’s music that we listened to at home helped our son stay calm during road trips. It was not music to our ears like our favorite trance album, but it kept our son happy, relaxed, and quiet – and that IS music to our ears.

So , music that is familiar with the baby at home will most certainly help put the baby at ease during road trips. You can also use a portable sound machine or play white noise from the car speakers.

How to Feed a Baby on a Road Trip

Whether you breastfeed your baby, bottle feed your baby, or are in the stage of providing snacks/solid foods – here are a few simple tips for feeding a baby on a road trip.

Breastfeeding a Baby on a Road Trip

First and foremost, do not breastfeed your baby in a moving car. This is very dangerous in the event of a car accident. Therefore, allow extra time to stop the vehicle and breastfeed your baby. If possible, utilize this time for restroom breaks, to get gas, food, etc.

If you pump, pack a breast pump car charger , breastmilk storage bags , spare parts, and a cooler to store pumped breastmilk. Moreover, continue to practice good nursing hygiene and habits as if you were at home.

Bottle Feeding a Baby on a Road Trip

Whether it’s breastmilk or formula, you want to pack a cooler to bottle feed your baby on the road.

Make sure you pack enough bottled water and formula powder (if you use formula). To help with space, I recommend pouring a small amount of water into the baby bottles and adding the formula when needed.

Furthermore, a formula dispenser can come in handy in the car. Then store a large container of formula in a suitcase.

Feeding Snacks to a Baby on a Road Trip

Once your baby can eat solid foods and/or pureed food, it can make feeding on the road a lot easier. I recommend packing snacks/food that your baby is familiar with, will enjoy, and is easy to eat on the go.

A few snacks that are easy to eat on the road are the squeezable veggie and fruit pouches , yogurt pouches , and Cheerios.

How to Change a Baby on a Road Trip

Honestly, sometimes there is no easy or right way to change a baby on the road. Through trial and error, find what works best for you!

For us, we have stopped at gas stations, rest stops, and have even needed to pull over on the side of the road to change our son. If a changing table in a bathroom is not available, we utilize our car. Moreover, a travel changing mat has been the key to our success because we can use it on any hard surface.

What to Pack for a Road Trip with a Baby

Believe me when I say you will probably pack your entire nursery when you road trip with a baby. Babies need soooo much! So do not feel like you packed “too much” because you will probably use everything.

Here are a few essential items to pack when road tripping with a baby.

• A car seat, obviously
• Pack n Play for sleeping
• Stroller (if you find you will need/use it)
• Plenty of diapers (if you run out, you can always buy more at a store)
• Plenty of baby wipes (again, if you run out, you can always buy more at a store)
• Portable changing mat
• First aid kit
• Baby Tyenol and Benadryl (approved by your pediatrician)
• 3 sets of clothes per day
• Swaddle blankets and/or sleep sacks
• Batteries for any toys
• Portable white noise machine
• Baby bottles
• Travel sterlizing bags for bottles
• Bottle soap and brushes
• Travel high chair

How Long Can You Go on a Road Trip with a Baby?

There is no exact number of hours that you can road trip with a baby, but it is highly recommended to give your baby plenty of breaks. Just like adults, our bodies can only take sitting in a car for so long. So imagine how a baby feels.

From personal experience, when our son was 2 – 4 months old, we could only go on 3-hour road trips. From 5 to 12 months old, we have only been able to drive up 8 hours a day. When we would drive 8 hours, the day would get divided into several stops at different cities. So really, it was two, 4-hour drives in one day and even then we had to break that up at times.

To figure out what is best for you and your family, I would practice around your city first, especially if you have been nesting for the first few weeks/months. Start with a short 30 minute to one-hour drive.

Then gradually work towards a 2 – 3 hour day trip. Eventually, you will learn your baby’s road trip habits to plan for a weekend getaway with a 4-5 hour road trip.

Road Trip with a Baby ( 1 – 4 Months)

The first few months of going on a road trip with a baby are the easiest and the toughest because everyone is still learning their roles. On one hand, a baby sleeps the most at this stage, so driving through naps is easier. On the other hand, this might be the most challenging stage because, as first-time parents, we are all just trying to survive, right?

Moreover, I recommend waiting at least two weeks before going on a road trip with a baby because the first few weeks as a parent are the hardest!

Additionally, I went with my pediatrician’s recommendation and waited for our son to receive his vaccines at 2 months before we traveled outside of our city. I would always consult with your pediatrician and do what is best for you and your family.

After we figured out the amount of time we could drive without stopping, this was the easiest and best time to road trip with a baby. Our son would sleep for the majority of the time. We would engage him with black and white toys and books when he wasn’t sleeping.

Here are a few products that I highly recommend for road tripping with a baby between 1 – 4 months old.

Road Trip with a Baby ( 5 – 8 Months)

At this stage in life, if your baby is becoming mobile, independent, and napping less – road tripping with a baby might become a little more complicated. Mainly because you may need to help entertain your baby.

In our experience, once our son became mobile and napped less, we had to entertain him more on road trips. It would require one person to always sit in the backseat to play with him. It also meant stopping more frequently to keep him active and happy.

Furthermore, rotating toys will become essential during this stage because of the developmental leaps. A baby will want to be constantly engaged and challenged. At 5 months, a baby should also start seeing colors well.

Therefore, I recommend these colorful toys for road tripping with a baby between 5 – 8 months old.

Road Trip with a Baby ( 9 – 12 Months)

Road tripping with a baby at 9 – 12 months old may or may not be the most challenging time. It could be the hardest if your baby is mobile, enjoys being active, and just doesn’t like car rides – period. If you’ve been road tripping with your baby for several months, it might just go as smoothly as one could hope.

For us, it was hard, but not that bad. Our son had grown used to traveling and taking road trips. So he would be okay for 3 – 4 hours at a time. Granted, we made an epic 2-week road trip through West Texas and New Mexico. Therefore, we had plenty of overnight stays in fun towns such as Fort Davis and San Angelo with fun activities to keep everyone entertained.

The best way to road trip with a baby between 9 – 12 months old is to keep the baby active and entertained by exciting roadside attractions and pit stop destinations. Let your baby be mobile, and your road trip just might be the most enjoyable family vacation you could ever imagine!

We mostly entertained our son with activities at different destinations along our journey, but here are a few products that I also recommend for road tripping with a baby between 9 – 12 months old.

And that’s a wrap! I hope you have found my guide on road tripping with a baby helpful and insightful. Like all parents, I wish I had all the answers, but my knowledge and experience are all I have. I hope it is enough to help you and your family have successful road trips for many years to come!

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Friday 15th of December 2023

Mind blowing article! I have a 1+ years old baby boy.So this blog will be very helpful for us and every guide is very important for newly parents. Thanks for sharing.

oursweetadventures

Tuesday 26th of December 2023

Aww thank you so much for your kind words. I'm glad to hear you found my guide helpful! :)

Katherine Hurt

Sunday 19th of March 2023

Since my baby is 8 months old and we live in San Diego, I appreciate all of your advice. We are preparing to drive to San Francisco so that our baby can meet the family. Many people advised us to travel after the baby has gone to sleep. Then I came across your essay, which has been a huge assistance to us with all of our issues. Many thanks

Aww thank you. I’m glad my post has been helpful to you. I know some say to drive at night when the baby is sleeping, but that never appealed to us. And every baby is different! If you can, I would try a day trip to get some experience. We now have twin babies and the same has applied with them. We drive an hourish before nap and they are out for at least 2 hrs. And have learned that they really can’t do more than 5 hours without getting out of the car for a break. If you have questions, feel free to ask.

Tuesday 7th of June 2022

Thank you for all the tips; my baby is 9 months we live in San Diego and are planning to drive to San Francisco so our baby can meet the family. A lot of people told us drive at night when the baby is sleeping. Then I found your article and help us a lot with all our concerns. Thank you

Wednesday 8th of June 2022

Hi Emma, thank you for your comment. That makes me so happy to hear you found my guide helpful. I hope my tips help you for your family road trip!

Road Trip with Baby: How to Survive Long Car Rides

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Our oldest child logged more miles in the car his first few months of life than I can even begin to count.  I’ll thank our family and friends all over the eastern part of the United States for that! A road trip with baby requires a lot flexibility, especially given that the car ride can change so much during each stage of your baby’s life. A road trip with a newborn is MUCH different than a road trip with an 8 month old baby, for example.

With some advanced planning and trial and error, road trips with babies do get easier! Below is a rundown of our best tips and products for surviving long car rides with baby.

Disclaimer: Toddling Traveler participates in the Amazon Affiliate program and other affiliate programs. That means we may earn a commission qualifying purchases through our links, at no cost to you.

Road Trip Tips for Long Car Rides with a Baby

We learned a lot about drives with a baby after all the miles we logged in that first year. (And some things were definitely learned the hard way!) Below are a handful of our best tips for road trips with a baby after many long drives with two kids.

1. Accept that a road trip with a baby is going to take you longer

I typically estimate about a 30 minute stop for every 2.5 hours of driving.  There have been times, however, that I stopped every 2 hours (or even more.) Given the differences in mobility and sleep, a road trip with a 6 week old baby is going to be very different than a road trip with a 6 month old baby. When my son was in that 6-12 month stage, road trips were a little more difficult and often required more stops to allow him to stretch out.

Bottom line, give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination safely and comfortably!

2. Pack as much of the car as you can the night before your road trip with baby

Whether you’re leaving at 5am or 5pm, try to pack the car ahead of time to minimize stress the day you’re leaving for your trip. Ideally, I try to have everything in the car but the diaper bag and cooler well before our departure time. That usually means packing the car the night before for early departures.

The last thing you want to do is to have to jam a week’s worth of stuff into your car while trying to hold the baby or wrangle older siblings. (Especially since there will be times when just walking out the door is a feat in itself.)

3. Try to sync up long drives with your baby’s sleeping schedule

When my oldest was only a few months old, it worked best for us to leave early in the morning. He was taking several naps and would fall back asleep in the car, making road trips with a 1 month old baby and up to about 4 months pretty easy. As he got a little older and was more mobile, he was the most active early in the morning. That meant we had to adjust our approach and leave a little later to coordinate drives with his nap schedule. (Or just be super effective at keeping him entertained first thing in the morning!) This was also the case for our second child.

For really long drives, splitting the drive up also works well. That doesn’t necessarily mean you need to stay overnight. Just stopping for an hour or two to stretch and get a change of scenery works well too. Especially when babies start to become mobile and need to get those wiggles out.

For those moms or dads to-be, I don’t want to give you a false impression that every single baby sleeps well in a car. We were lucky with our son in that he always slept in the car at some point during the drive, but you might need try out different approaches to get this right.

4. Pack extra snacks and meals for road trips

Once babies are starting to get into the solids phase, you’re likely going to be bringing a lot of their food from home. For snacks that travel well, we love teething wafers or puffs . We also loved snack catching cups as our son got older and started eating snacks more independently. They’re a lifesaver with preventing snacks from getting dumped all over the keep your car by your little ones!

While we like fruit and veggie pouches for easy on-the-go nutrition, I don’t recommend them for car rides. Speaking from experience, they can make a mess unless you have someone in the backseat to help.

Be sure to also have more food and milk/formula on hand than you think you need. You never know when you’ll get stuck in traffic or your drive will take longer than planned.

5. Bring different forms of entertainment for the car

Babies can easily get bored looking at the same thing for ours on end. (And so can adults, for that matter!) Regardless of their age, proactively keeping your baby entertained in the car definitely helps minimize the fussing.

Screen time is one form of entertainment many parents use in the car with babies or toddlers. We don’t typically use iPads or Kindles at home, so they’ve always been a special treat for long drives or flights. Our favorite device for kids is the Kindle Fire along with a Kindle Fire tablet case for kids . We also have this tablet holder for car that hooks onto the headrest and can be used for a rear or front facing car seat. If you’re planning to use screen time in the car with baby, I recommend using other forms of entertainment first and keep the tablet for playing learning shows like Miss Rachel when they get really restless.

A few of our favorite toys for a road trip with baby are below.

• A sensory   toy that’s multifaceted like  this one .   It also has rings, a teether, a mirror, a rattle as well as multiple sounds and textures.  
• The  Wubbanub Pacifier is great, even if your baby doesn’t take a pacifier. It was a lifesaver on our road trip home from Omaha with a newborn when we weren’t able to stop and feed our son right away.  
• A stuffed animal or lovey is great to give them comfort and something to grasp.
• When your baby starts teething, bring several teether options. Both for back up when they drop them and to switch it up with something new. Some of our favorite tethers are Nubby Chewy Rings , the Chicken Wing Appeteether and the Banana Toothbrush Teether .
• If another adult is able to be in the backseat, you can bring books to read to them. Check out our page on travel books for children for more ideas.
• As your baby gets closer to 1 year old, sticker books are a great toddler road trip activity with adult assistance.

Related Post: 10 Baby and Toddler Toys for Travel Under $10

6. Make sure you can access an open seat in the car

When driving for long periods of time, I’ve found that the car often becomes ground zero for anything you need to do to take care of the baby.   For this reason, it definitely helps if you leave the backseat next to your baby open.  (This gets a little tougher when you have other kids in the car, but it’s helpful for new parents trying to navigate everything.) Whether you need to go back and check on the baby or quickly change a dirty diaper, that extra space is key!

As a breastfeeding mom, I also felt more comfortable nursing from my car with it parked in the corner of the parking lot versus trying to manage it inside a rest stop.  This is totally a matter of personal preference, and I admire anyone who can breastfeed anywhere!

7. Know where the rest stops are for those frequent stops

If you have a navigation or app that shows where the rest stops are, use it! Knowing how many miles away the rest stops are is super helpful when trying to time out feedings and diaper changes in the car.  

Have to stop when there’s no rest stop near you? Many toll roads and major highways have emergency rest stops.  I found these to be especially helpful when I was driving by myself. There were quite a few times that my son became hysterical, and I had to stop either comfort him, feed him or change his diaper. (Hence, why the prior tip on leaving an open car seat comes in handy!)

If your child is just starting to become more mobile, try to use rest stops to help them stretch out and move around as well. Sitting in a car that long is hard enough for adults, much less babies who just want to move and don’t understand why they can’t.

8. Try to bring reinforcements when you’re tackling a long car ride with baby

I’ve probably done as many road trips with my son solo as I have with someone else in the car. For obvious reasons, it’s much easier to get through the long drive with a baby when you have someone to help you. You can actually check on the baby without hanging to pull over. And rest stops are easier to tackle since you can split up getting guess, using the restroom and taking care of the baby.

9. Ziplock bags are your friend

I never leave the house without Ziplock bags when traveling with a baby, whether I’m road tripping or not. You can use Ziplock bags for dirty clothes and diapers, snacks, other trash that you don’t want to stink up the car. We usually have some in the diaper bag, and they’re small enough that you can keep a few large Ziplock bags in the glove compartment or other car storage just in case.

10. Stay focused on the road when you have a baby on board

This one may seem obvious, but it’s easy to get distracted when driving with a baby. As a multi-tasker at heart, it’s tough for me not to feel like I’m super woman and can focus on the road while simultaneously singing to my son and picking up that sippy cup I swear he tried to throw at me.

I’m constantly having to remind myself of this and will often stop to pull over in a safe spot if I need to check on something for peace of mind. It’s much better and safer than trying to do it all from the driver’s seat.

5 Must Have Products for a Car Ride with a Baby

In addition to the above-mentioned items, below are some things we swear by for your road trip with baby packing list. For any moms-to-be out there, I definitely recommend planning ahead and considering these items for your baby registry.  

1. Baby Mirror

A baby car mirror was critical for us for both safety and peace of mind for car rides of any length. We relied pretty heavily on these to see our son when he was rear facing. The mirror especially comes in handy if you’re doing a solo road trip with a baby. It makes it much easier to check if they’re sleeping, crying or throwing their toy for the millionth time when you don’t have a co-pilot to help.  

We have this backseat car mirror . I love that it’s big enough to see the baby’s entire body, and it’s easy to install and adjust when needed.

2. Car Sunshades 

Our son HATES the sun in his eyes, especially in the car. While our newer car came with sunshades, our prior car when we first had our son did not. These white-hot car safety shades are perfect. Not only do they have an indicator that shows if the car is too hot, but they also retract easily. Every car is different, so make sure you measure your car windows to ensure you’re getting adequate coverage for your window size. I’d recommend avoiding the stick-on car shades that fold up, since they easily fall off.

As your little one gets older, baby sunglasses are a great option if they’ll keep them on for the car. You can find the best baby sunglasses here .

3. Small Cooler

A cooler is critical for any road trip, but especially with a baby when you can’t easily get drinks and snacks for them at a rest stop.

We bought this freezable lunch bag cooler after it was recommended by a friend.  The bag itself freezes, and it can keep the contents cold without a separate freezer pack It also easily folds up when you’re not using it.  It’s the perfect size to keep a couple bottles and snacks cold for that long car ride. And it’s also great for milk on a plane ride with a baby or traveling without baby while breastfeeding .

Looking for a larger cooler for car rides? This soft-sided cooler is large enough for several drinks and food. Plus, it’s foldable and easy to pack away when not using it.

4. Hands-free diaper bag

This probably seems too obvious, but the hands-free part is key when making those pit stops while juggling a baby. I have this diaper bag that I wear like a cross body diaper bag. (Although sadly the champagne color I have is discontinued.) I also have this diaper bag backpack that we use periodically.

In addition to the multiple pockets, a changing pad that comes out separately and velcros shut is also a necessity. You will definitely want something that can easily be washed after multiple uses on those dirty roadside changing tables.

5. Light blanket

Whether in the car or just pushing the stroller, we almost always had a thin muslin blanket on our son’s lap. Not only does it help make sure baby is warm enough in the car, but it also gives them something to grab onto for comfort. We love muslin baby blankets because they serve a number of purposes and are light, breathable and easy to pack.  

Target also sells a similar, less expensive set of muslin baby blankets that we’ve used as well.

Do you have any additional tips for long car rides with a baby? Please share in the comments!

Related Posts:

• 9 Baby Travel Essentials + Packing List
• 6 Toddler Road Trip Tips
• 12 Reasons to Travel with a Baby or Toddler

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19 thoughts on “Road Trip with Baby: How to Survive Long Car Rides”

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I love you tips.Thanks for putting this together I will pin for later to have it handy then I travel next time.

You’re welcome! I’m so glad to hear it was helpful.

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Such brilliant tips, which take me back to many years ago – am sure these will be useful for so many parents. Also, the photos are adorable!

Thanks so much!

oh dear. we did not get a car until my son was about 15 months old so on the rare times he was in one as a baby, OMG he hated it! We did a road trip from Raleigh to the outer banks when he was 5months old and he screamed the whole time!!!!!! def takes longer, driver has to stay focused. plastic bags, extra clothes, prepare for it all!

That’s quite the drive! It’s definitely tougher when they get more mobile!!

I agree with you that it was easier when the baby was between 0-4 month old. The baby mirror and car sun shades also helped us a lot. Now our baby is 13 years old. 🙂

Time flies! We’re about to start doing this all over again so I’m hoping these baby road trip tips stick for baby #2!

You always have the best insight for traveling with our youngest travelers! Great tips as always…!

Thanks so much Jen!

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10 Tips for Road Tripping With an Infant

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Road trips with an infant can be stressful, but they don’t have to be, and the truth is a car ride with a baby is often less stressful than getting on a plane. You can stop your own vehicle for an emergency bathroom break or to move around a restless toddler. And if your baby does throw a tantrum, you can focus your attention on their needs instead of worrying about other passengers.

Whether you're hitting the road to visit the grandparents or heading to a vacation destination geared toward families with infants , you may be surprised at some of the simple things you can do to keep your little one calm and quiet during your trip. Whether you’ll be on the road for five hours or five days, these 10 tips will help your vacation go as smoothly as possible.

While one person is driving, have another sit in the back with the baby. Having that caretaker in the back seat can help address issues as they arise—preparing bottles, wiping up, curing boredom with some old-fashioned “peek-a-boo”—which can help minimize stops and avoid total meltdowns.

It's an old bit of wisdom, but "sleep when the baby sleeps" is solid advice during a road trip with kids . When the baby is sleeping, the person in the back should try to rest, too, so they can be refreshed enough to take over driving when the driver gets fatigued.

Manage Expectations

Any number of things can go wrong on a road trip—a flat tire, bad weather, food poisoning—but those hiccups become exponentially more stressful with a young (likely screaming) infant in tow. Accepting that going in and maintaining a sense of humor about the situation can go a long way to help ease the tension. After all, the difference between a fiasco and an adventure can be as simple as your state of mind.

One way to make light of unpleasant situations is to make a game out of them. For example, put together Baby Road Trip BINGO cards where spaces are filled in with any and all potential disasters—think "blow out in the car seat" or tiny victories like "finished a whole podcast." That way, even bad situations turn into wins.  

Drive at Night

It’s a bit uncomfortable for the parents, but then again, so is a screaming child with no exit in sight. Driving at night means your baby will spend more time sleeping and less time awake and hungry, bored, or needing changes. You’ll be able to drive for longer stretches without needing breaks. 

A great way to maximize drive time is to schedule your departure so that it coincides with bedtime. Go through your whole routine (bath, pajamas, bedtime song—whatever your nightly ritual entails), but put the baby down to sleep in the car seat instead of the crib or bassinet. Drive as long as you're comfortable—or for as long as the baby is sleeping—but be sure to switch drivers, caffeinate, and rest when needed to avoid driving drowsy. 

Plan Frequent Breaks

You might be able to go six hours without using the bathroom or needing to eat, but the baby likely can't. Plan for stops every one to three hours during the day and three to six hours at night to change diapers, stretch legs, eat, and change sweaty or spit-up clothes as needed.

To avoid unnecessary stops, make a checklist of items that you go through during every break so you don’t forget anything, such as changing the baby’s diaper or clothes, using the restroom (for those not in diapers), and refreshing essential supplies. 

Skip the Scenic Route

While scenic overlooks and long stretches of the open road might seem like the very things that make a road trip worthwhile, they can also make it difficult to find help or reprieve when you need it. Choose a route in advance that has frequent access to food, 24-hour gas stations, restrooms, and service areas.

Even better, plot out some pit-stops in advance —including some potential hotels if you think you might need a real rest—so you can pull over when necessary.

Keep Supplies Nearby

You might have a giant suitcase with everything you need to survive traveling with an infant for an extended period of time, but that's not what you want to be digging through at 65 mph while a baby is screaming in your ear, or while parked at a dodgy rest stop in the middle of the night.

Keep a kit within easy reach so you don’t have to unbuckle your seat belt to retrieve any critical items, and fill the bag with small amounts of necessities (you can always refill as you go). You could pack all of these items into a medium-sized backpack or tote bag:

• A portable changing pad with two or three diapers
• A packet of wipes
• Pre-portioned bottles of formula or breast milk in a small cooler bag
• Two or three small but versatile toys
• Infant Tylenol or ibuprofen
• A baby forehead thermometer
• A small portable sound machine
• An extra blanket

In addition to the baby kit, be sure there's one for the adults, too. That could include mobile chargers for your electronic devices, a tablet or e-reader, high-protein/easy-to-eat snacks, sleep aids, sleep mask, a small pillow, earphones, and earplugs. You might also want to bring along a car sun shade to help your little one nap.

Brush up on Baby Massage Techniques

Babies can get stiff and uncomfortable after sitting for hours in their seats, just like adults. Read up on some infant massage techniques that you can modify to use either while driving (if you’re on backseat duty) and during stops. Gently massaging legs and feet, in particular, can often help calm a fussy baby long enough to get you to a good stopping place where they can stretch out their legs in earnest.

Sing Simple Camp Songs

When it comes to fussy infants stuck in car seats, be prepared with a variety of tools at your disposal. Singing songs can often be more effective than the radio at helping to put a baby to sleep, calming them when they’re fussy, and entertaining them when they’re bored. Try to pick songs with simple melodies, but where verses can be added or improvised as with many nursery rhymes or typical camp songs. Taking turns inventing new lyrics can help break up the monotony for parents, too.

Take Precautions

With or without an infant, standard prep and safety precautions should be followed. Make sure you have a spare tire, car jack, and tire iron that are ready to go, especially if you're driving through sparsely populated areas where the nearest mechanic could be several miles away. It's not fun waiting hours for a tow truck to arrive and even less so when you have a baby on board.

While packing the car, be sure not to obstruct the driver’s view, including in the rearview mirror. And always take steps to pull over to well-lit areas when stopping at night.

Admit Defeat

If you’re tired, if you’re frustrated, if everyone in the car (including and especially your baby) can’t take another second on the road, then stop. It’s okay.

Find a place to rest and give yourself a few minutes or hours to regroup. Most hotels will take bookings any time of day and many provide cribs in the room upon request. Take a nap in a real bed or freshen up with a hot shower and a meal at a sit-down restaurant. Giving yourself and your baby a chance to reset can help make the rest of the ride go more smoothly.  

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Travel Advice

Road trip with a baby: 10 essential survival tips + packing list.

How to plan successful long drives traveling with an infant

The prospect of a long road trip with a baby can fill even the most experienced traveling parents with anxiety. We know; we’ve been there!  There are just so many extra items that are needed for baby car travel and don’t forget those ill-timed diaper blowouts while you’re inconveniently between stops.

We’ve put our own traveling experiences to work for you by compiling ` 10 Tips for Road Tripping with a Baby to help make your journey as stress-free as possible. You’ll also find a helpful list of baby road-tripping gear at the end to make packing a breeze.

This post is part of our family road-tripping and best baby travel advice series

If your child is a little bit older, then pop on over and read all our best toddler road trip travel advice here.

10 Tips For Road-Tripping With A Baby

Before we dive into traveling tips for baby’s first road trip, we’d like to emphasize the importance of having a suitable rear-facing car seat for your baby .  Please check to make sure it has not expired, and if you are traveling to another country, it’s best to look up child safety laws for the area you’re driving to. 

1. Get as Much Practice as Possible

You may have heard horror stories of families embarking on a long drive with their baby only to turn around because their little one dissolved into hysterics. We have experienced a fair amount of crying while traveling ourselves, and the best solution we’ve found to this has simply been to get your baby used to being in their car seat. 

We know that getting out and about with your baby is easier said than done, especially if you have more than one child.  Even a few trips to pick up groceries or going to the park will help your little one realize that being in a car seat is not the end of the world. 

Once that is going well, perhaps plan a day trip to a park or location an hour or two away.  By increasing your baby’s time in their car seat incrementally, you’re decreasing the chances of constant crying when you’re committed to a longer trip.

2. Be Reasonable With Your Itinerary

If you thrive on making schedules and sticking to them, you’ll need to adjust your expectations when it comes to baby car travel. As tempting as it is to reach your destination as soon as possible, as new parents, you’ll need to keep your baby’s needs and your own sanity in mind when planning your first family road trip. 

Even the most well-traveled infant can only spend so many hours in a moving car (and you shouldn’t leave a baby in their infant car seat for more than a couple of hours at a time). When taking on long car journeys, build in plenty of pit stops for the whole family.

You also wanted to make sure that you are taking care of yourself and your partner.  Sleepless nights and babies often go hand-in-hand. If you’re already running on fumes, avoid trying to drive for more than five to six hours a day or through the night. Your family’s safety is the most important thing.

We’ve always found it helps to time the long stretches for what would be your baby’s normal nap time – but “normal” doesn’t always apply when traveling with a baby! If you have older children to consider too, you may have multiple napping schedules to consider, and there is no ‘best time.’

3. Bring Pumping Supplies or Extra Formula

Whether you’re a breastfeeding mum or you’re feeding your little one with baby formula , you’ll need to pack extra feeding supplies when on the road with an infant. Bringing along ready-to-feed formula can be a lifesaver during travel, as mixing formula on the go can prove to be a hassle, especially on extended journeys.

In the event that you either aren’t able to pull over and nurse your baby or that they are sleeping soundly in their car seat at feeding time, you’ll probably want to bring a travel breast pump along with you.

This can be one of the bulkiest items to pack, and you’ll need to remember to bring extra batteries or have a charging cord that plugs into your car’s adapter (naturally, this is if you’re the passenger, not the driver!).

I can’t say enough good things about the Spectra breast pump . The latest model even has a rechargeable battery. A car adapter is also available for additional purchase. The Spectra is powerful and easy to clean, both of which are pluses when traveling.

Additional recommended supplies for feeding on the move:

• Nursing Cover
• Milk Storage Bags
• Insulated Bottle Cooler
• Travel Bottle Warmer
• Milk Bottles
• Cleaning Kit

You can find our complete guide to breastfeeding on the go here, as well as our complete guide to bottle feeding on the go .

4. Car Seat Additions

In some ways, babies are both easier and more difficult to entertain than toddlers .  Your newborn won’t be screaming because you took their tablet away from them, but they may scream because of a dirty diaper, they’re hungry, or they’re tired of being in their car seat.  Yes, taking a baby on the road can be a different animal altogether.

Babies are sometimes easier in the sense that they can be distracted by much simpler items, such as favorite toys that rattle or make noise, or merely seeing their own reflection in a mirror. 

We suggest a toy strip that attaches to the handles of your baby’s car seat.  This ensures they will have a variety of engaging travel toys that can’t be thrown on the floor (A toy tether is also an excellent way to avoid this scenario!).

Some of our favorite baby road trip toys

We also recommend having a car seat mirror when you’re on a long trip with your baby so that you can keep tabs on how they’re doing.  It’s always helpful to know when your baby is napping, as this can help determine whether or not you can squeeze in another hour of driving.  A mirror can also alert you to those unfortunate milk spit-ups that will more than likely result in an extra pit stop.

Some babies will go through phases of simply not settling in the back seat. Particularly if they are the only one in the back, a quick way to a happy baby may be simply having another adult or family member sit with your infant to entertain them in their car seat.

5. Pack a Travel Bag

You’ll want to have some of the essentials within arm’s reach in your vehicle, which is why you’ll need an extra travel bag inside the car, aside from your suitcases in the trunk. 

Your regular diaper bag can be perfectly suitable for this, or you can simply pack an extra tote.

Here are some helpful items to stock your car baby bag with:

• Travel changing pad
• Extra diapers
• Diaper Cream
• Healthy Snacks
• Hand sanitizer
• Burp cloths
• Plastic bags (for dirty diapers)
• A change of clothes (for baby and for you!)
• Ziploc bags or wash bags (for dirty clothes)
• Extra pacifiers (if needed)
• First Aid Kit

We’ve found that it’s always helpful to have a small selection of baby’s favorite toys for when we would have to stop and eat while traveling. 

These could be brought into the restaurant and swapped out, and sanitizing wipes certainly came in handy when those toys inevitably hit the floor. Bibs also became a necessity, as they helped protect our baby’s clothes from spit-ups in the car. 

• You’ll find our complete baby travel checklist here .

6. Expect a Few Diaper Blowouts

Ah, diaper blowouts.  These are a fact of parenting life, and traveling with a newborn by car practically guarantees that a few will occur between Point A and Point B – we’ve learned the hard way! 

While there’s nothing you can do to prevent blowouts, you can minimize the cleanup, thereby reducing your own stress in these situations.

We absolutely recommend a car seat liner .  Many are universal, but you should also be able to find one that fits your specific car seat.  Car seat liners can be wiped clean and are machine washable, and they prevent anything from soaking into the actual car seat (you’ll use these right through the toilet training stage up to the pre-school years).

Baby car travel also dictates the necessity of packing backup clothing, and onesies are extremely convenient.  We advise packing 2-3 onesies in your travel bag to cover all of your bases – it’ll save you needing to dig them out of suitcases on the side of the road for those emergency diaper changes.

7. Prepare for Frequent Stops

Taking baby on the road goes hand-in-hand with stopping. Frequently.  It’s just a fact of life, and if you accept it at the onset of your road trip, this will probably reduce the chances you’ll be cranky about it later. 

Babies simply require extra handling, whether it be an unanticipated nursing or feeding stop, milk-spit-up-fiasco, or the dreaded diaper blowout.  It’s best just to buck up, pull over, and take care of business.

It’s also a good idea to bring along your stroller .  This really is an essential road-tripping item, as you’ll need to stretch your legs as well as transport your baby to and from your hotel room or take in some trails during a rest stop. 

8. For Mom – Take Care of YOU

This article may be about road trips with a baby, but we’re going to take a moment and focus on you, Mom.  It can be tempting to put your needs last, as it so often seems to be a part of being a mother.  However, your own well-being is directly linked to the health and happiness of your little one, and it’s important to remember this.

For one, don’t be afraid to speak up if you’re exhausted.  Letting your partner or spouse take the wheel while you’re on the road is an excellent way to catch up on any sleep you may have missed the night before.  Even a half-hour of added sleep can do wonders, as we’re sure you know!

If you’re a nursing mom , you’ll also want to make sure that you’re staying hydrated.  You’ve already adopted the mindset that stops will be more frequent, so if that means a few extra trips to the bathroom, so be it.  Don’t sacrifice your own health because it may be temporarily inconvenient for others.

9. Pack A Few Travel Dining Essentials

Car travel with a baby means that you’ll be stopping along the way to eat, which means you’ll need to pack a few travel dining essentials.  If your baby can sit up with support, a travel high chair can make indoor dining much easier.  These fold up when not in use and can easily be stored in the trunk of your vehicle. 

As we’ve mentioned before, it’s best to pack several bibs in your travel bag for easy access while travelling.  We’re big fans of these silicone bibs , as they can be easily wiped clean for repeated use on your journey. Don’t forget surface wipes before sitting at a table and for wiping little hands that will want to touch EVERYTHING before serving up baby food!

10. Prepare for Hotel Stays

Staying in a hotel with your baby usually means that you’ll get much less sleep than normal, but we have some tips to make these experiences less tiring for everyone involved.

• Ask for a corner room.  These are often quieter and farther away from elevators.  Many hotels will work to accommodate families with infants, and you should not be afraid to speak up.  The worst they can tell you is that they don’t have any available. 
• If financially possible, spring for a suite room.  These generally have a separate space (such as a common living room area) where you can place your baby’s travel cot. 
• Bring a portable baby travel bassinet , not a bulky pack n’ play.  While useful, pack n’ plays can take up space in your vehicle that you’ll need for other items. Most hotels offer some sort of travel crib, but that doesn’t guarantee that the mattress will be lined or as thick as your baby is used to. A travel bassinet can be placed in the crib and provide all that your baby needs for a restful night’s sleep.

Baby Road Trip Essentials – Gear You’ll Need

We’ve mentioned several pieces of essential gear to prepare for a successful road trip with your infant or baby. To help you pack, here is a convenient list for your reference (you can also head straight to our Amazon store , where we set out all our favourite baby travel essential items)

• Travel Breast Pump
• Car Adapter
• Toy Teether
• Silicone Bibs
• Car Seat Liner
• Travel diaper change kit
• Travel High Chair
• Travel Bassinet

 What about when you arrive at your destination? Download our complete baby packing list when you sign up for our newsletter here – never forget an essential item again traveling with a baby!

Final thoughts on taking baby on the road

Remember, it’s all about setting realistic expectations. Give yourself plenty of time, pack well, rest frequently, and go easy on yourself if things don’t go exactly to plan! Traveling with a newborn may not be your best road trip, but it IS achievable with a little thought and planning. Safe Travels!

More Top Travel Tips With A Baby

Before you leave home with a baby in tow, firstly pop over to our Best Baby Travel Advice homepage. We cover a huge range of baby travel topics here including:

• How to Handle Baby’s First Flight – from booking the tickets to getting on the plane and surviving mid-air meltdowns, here’s how baby air travel works.
• Hiking with a Baby – babies can make great travel companions in the early days – here’s how to get yourself set up for a successful baby hike.
• Essentials Camping with a Baby – undoubtedly, tots do come with a lot of stuff! Here are the essential baby items we always recommend you take on a baby camping trip & hitting the trails.
• Bringing Baby to the Beach – Top tips for when you’re out in the sun and the surf to keep baby safe and make sure its a fun day for all of you.
• Baby Travel Essentials – the most important things for baby we never leave home without.

You can find all of our family travel product reviews here

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2 thoughts on “ Road Trip With A Baby: 10 Essential Survival Tips + Packing List! ”

I’m also bring my electric breast pump just in case!

great tip for newbie parents

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The Essential Packing List for a Road Trip With a Baby

If you’re like me and a first-time parent, it is daunting to go on your first road trip with a baby. What to pack, what to bring, the mental checklist runs on.

Our first road trip was from Sacramento to Los Angeles with our 8-week-old. Now home, I want to share what we brought on the trip to help make it go smoothly.

We booked a six-night trip that was split across two hotels and around a 5.5-hour drive each way. I spent probably too much time thinking about what to bring. But I would much rather be prepared and it certainly helped calm my nerves.

Now back home, I can say the trip was much easier than it felt in my head. The prep work definitely paid off and having a game plan was helpful. We thought about where we wanted to stop and made sure our car was set up for the stops to feed and change. More on that below.

So here’s my essential packing list for a road trip with a baby. It’s everything we brought for the car drive and what you may consider bringing on yours.

Essential Packing List for a Road Trip With a Baby

Travel tips for the road trip, time budget.

We chose to stop every 2.5-3 hours to give the baby a break from the car seat, feed, and change. These longer stops took around 45 minutes to an hour. Then we had the occasional one-off stop for a quick feed or change.

I would recommend the essentials being within hand’s reach and setting up a diaper changing area. We didn’t want to use public bathrooms so we changed her in the front seat of the car.

If you’re headed on a longer trip, try to time it with one of the longer naps. I know our baby sleeps longest in the morning and after the middle of the night feed. So we left at 5 am promptly after her feed. We got a really nice long stretch before having to stop.

Flexibility

Sometimes you may have to stop in the most random places or even only after being on the road for 15 minutes, roll with it!

Always double-check your car seat. Map out where you want to stop, it is super helpful.

What to Keep in the Front of the Car

Diapering station.

• Several diapers + wipes
• Butt cream (we used this one since we were going for 3-hour stretches)
• Changing pads. For the changing pad, I bought these puppy puddle-proof liners to protect our car seats underneath our Gathre changing pad .
• Plastic bags for dirty diapers or soiled clothes.

Feeding Essentials

• Burp cloths and lots of them. I had a single bag just of burp cloths for the trip.
• Haakaa if breastfeeding (super helpful if you get engorged/overfull on the trip)
• Any other feeding essentials like bottles + formula

Other Essentials

• Portable sound machine — we use this all the time in the car.
• Nasal bulb suctioner in case you need to suction.
• Blankets — we keep two in the car.
• Outfit changes for you and baby. At least 2 for baby.
• Sun shades for car windows — these block UVA
• Safety mirror to see baby
• First aid kit + one towel
• Toys or books for baby for entertainment (see my toddler travel essential gear list for our favorites!)
• Diaper Bag: I kept ours up front stocked with our normal go-to’s. I love our Caraa Diaper Bag .
• Snacks and water

Everything Else to Pack

How much you pack is dependent on what gear you choose to travel with. Since we were road-tripping and using our SUV, we packed what would be most convenient for the trip.

I’ll share what we packed for gear and some alternatives to consider.

• Car seat ( Cybex Cloud G ) + Mios 2 Stroller . These connect together as one travel system. (rain gear for carseat and a stretchy car seat cover — great for protecting baby from curious eyes!)
• Baby Bjorn Bouncer — loved having another spot to put baby in our hotel room.
• We have the Guava Pack & Play which is what I pack every time
• The Slumber pod — a black-out tent for naps and fits over most pack & plays. Wouldn’t travel without it.
• Artipoppe Baby Carrier — this was amazing to have on the trip, it’s one of our most used baby items.

Sleep Essentials

Whatever you may use to get baby down at night. For us that is:

• Swaddle (brought 2 in case one was soiled) or sleep sack
• Hatch Sound Machine – we use it as a nightlight, could use the portable sound machine instead. Certainly wasn’t necessary but we had the room.
• VAVA Baby monitor . You don’t need any internet for this to work.
• 2-3 outfits a day – we live for bodysuits and kimono-style onesies.
• Sweaters and outerwear
• Sleep sacks or pajamas
• Socks, shoes, beanies, and sun hat

Hygiene + Medical + Diapering

• Laundry detergent — we did a bit of hand-washing
• Baby Shampoo + Soap and brush
• Thermometer and infant medications
• Rash Cream and body ointment
• Diapers, wipes, and changing pad
• Baby brush and nail clippers if a longer trip
• Nasal aspirator and saline drops
• Burp cloths — these muslin ones are our favorite
• Formula, bottles , cleaning brush
• Fork and spoon set and suction plates
• Breastfeeding: cover , disposable nursing pads , Haakkaa , breast pump if needed

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Ps — are you booking a trip soon use my booking checklist.

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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The Essential Packing Checklist for Traveling with an Infant in the Car

You're on your first long road trip with baby, and just as traffic screeches to a halt your baby starts screeching too. She needs a diaper, stat — and as you rummage through your bag with one hand, you realize you forgot to pack them.

We don't want this to happen to you. Use this printable packing checklist next time you're traveling with an infant in the car.

Things To do Before Leaving on your Road Trip with Baby

• Make doubly sure your car seat is installed correctly. This is a good time to take a look at your baby's car seat to make sure the straps fit snugly, the angle is correct and the seat itself doesn't move more than an inch in any direction. If you need help, SaferCar.gov can help you find a car seat inspection station near you . While it may be tempting to have your baby ride facing forward so you can keep an eye on him, rear-facing is the safest position for children until they're at least two. 1
• Map out places to stop. Don't count on driving for six hours straight. Traveling with an infant will be less frustrating if you plan to take frequent breaks, ideally somewhere that will entertain your baby. We're not talking about Disney World, but rather places like parks and shopping malls. Even marinas and roadside construction sites can provide some much-needed distractions during a road trip with baby.
• Plan ways for your baby to kill time. Every minute your baby's busy, you're another mile closer to your destination. Place a dozen small (but safe) toys in a cloth bag with a narrow opening and let baby reach in to pull them out. An older baby can fish Cheerios one-by-one out of a spill-proof snack cup.
• Protect your own sanity. Download a favorite audiobook. Stash some chocolate in your diaper bag. Schedule Starbucks breaks. Do anything it takes to keep yourself relaxed and calm. If you can't take another minute of traveling with an infant who's screaming and crying, pull over. Hold your baby, change her diaper, read a book together and try again.

What To Keep in the Front Seat while Traveling with Baby

These are the supplies you'll want to keep close at hand when you're driving.

• Diapers: Have one for each hour of transit, plus extras, BabyCenter recommends .
• Wipes for diaper changes and messes
• Diaper cream
• Washable changing pad
• Plastic bags for wet or dirty clothes and diapers
• Burp cloths
• Nursing cover
• Two changes of clothes for your baby
• Change of clothes for yourself
• Any special toy or lovey
• Drinks such as bottled water and juice
• Snacks, such as cereal, puffs, crackers and fruit pouches. If you have a young baby, never give her foods she could choke on while you're traveling in the car.
• Breast milk or formula
• Canned or jarred baby food
• Small cooler with ice packs
• First-aid kit
• A window sun shade
• A safety mirror so you can see your baby
• A stack of small board books
• A grab bag of toys (make sure none are choking hazards)
• DVD player or tablet with headphones, if baby will be entertained by an app or a TV show

Everything Else To Pack in the Car when Traveling with Baby

• Umbrella stroller and/or full-size stroller
• Backpack carrier
• Pack-and-play or travel crib (unless your destination provides one) and sheets
• Baby monitor and batteries
• Diapers: Calculate how many your baby uses per day, then pack a few extra.
• Rain and cold-weather gear (if applicable)
• At least two outfits per day with socks, packed in individual bags
• Shoes or booties
• Pajamas and sleep sacks
• Swimsuit and sunsuit
• Water shoes
• Swim diapers
• Baby laundry detergent
• Baby fork, spoon and dishes
• Spill-proof snack cups
• Bottles or sippy cups
• Breast pump, if you use one
• Dish soap and brush
• Inflatable baby bathtub, if you're flying with an infant so young he/she needs one. Otherwise use the hotel sink.
• Baby shampoo/wash
• Baby toothbrush and toothpaste
• Baby comb, brush and hair ties
• Baby nail clippers
• Baby thermometer
• Sunscreen and sunhat
• Baby sunglasses
• Outlet plugs, doorknob covers, toilet locks and other safety devices for crawling babies or young toddlers
• Infant medications, including antihistamine and acetaminophen, plus any prescriptions. Don't give your baby Benadryl or another antihistamine unless your pediatrician recommends it. 2
• Oral rehydration unfrozen freeze pops: an essential, says Have Baby Will Travel
• Nasal aspirator and saline solution

Print Our Checklist for Traveling with Baby

Be sure to print our checklist for traveling with a baby and take it with you. Simply click the print link below and make sure to have your browser set to print background images so that you can see the checkboxes.

Print Checklist

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• BabyCenter.com

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The ultimate packing list for traveling with a baby

Be prepared for just about everything with this tried and tested list. 

What to pack when traveling with a baby 

What to pack for your baby in a carry-on, free printable baby packing list.

Pre-kids, my husband and I were the people who'd show up at the airport 40 minutes before a flight, breeze through TSA pre-check, refill our water bottles, and walk right onto the plane with our carry-ons. 

After I had two children, this strategy pretty much went out the window. It didn't matter if we were going away for one night or two weeks: when we started traveling with a baby , we packed nearly everything we owned. It took four years and countless trips, but I've since perfected the art of flying with a baby . 

 Ahead, find out exactly what you'll need to pack for a baby.

To make the packing process easier on yourself, start with the BabyCenter-approved list below. You can print it out and make any changes as needed – such as eliminating items your baby has outgrown, adding new things they need, and making adjustments based on the length of your trip and the climate. 

It's helpful to start gathering supplies about a week in advance, laundering anything that needs to be cleaned (such as a pack 'n' play sheet), and shopping for used-up supplies (such as travel-sized toiletries). 

If you're looking for more guidance, get extra-detailed tips below.

Travel gear

To get your baby from point A to point B, you'll need a few basics. 

Travel stroller

If you're running late to catch a flight, it's much easier to push your baby in a lightweight umbrella stroller   than to carry them through a long terminal. Some travel strollers are Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-approved and fold to fit in the carry-on bins on board, but most get gate-checked. Remember to bring the travel bag that came with it to protect the stroller from damage. 

Add bag hooks and a stroller caddy (the Colugo Opens a new window one even doubles as a fanny pack), and utilize the under-basket storage. Some travel systems allow you to hook the car seat on top of the stroller, meaning you have one less item to lug around.

While you can rent car seats at your destination, experts highly recommend bringing one with you. "Renting one often comes with challenges, including risking it not being appropriate for age, weight, or height," says Chandani Patel DeZure, M.D. , a pediatrician and BabyCenter Medical Advisor . "In addition, it is safest to fly on an airplane with a baby in a car seat – just make sure the car seat is FAA-approved."

You can also use it for car rides to and from the airport.

Car seat bag

One of the best perks of traveling with a car seat is using a car seat bag, a giant lightweight backpack that fits a car seat. Usually, you can stuff extras – such as a package of diapers, swim floaties, or other odd-shaped items – that won't neatly fit in a suitcase. 

Baby carrier

Parents swear by baby carriers for airport travel. I find them most effective for babies under 6 months . (After that, they get heavy!) Just don't baby wear on the plane during take-off or landing, per the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). 

The same sleep safety rules apply when you travel: Your baby should sleep alone in a crib or bassinet with nothing in it. Borrow a crib, bassinet, or pack 'n' play from your hotel, or try a reputable rental company (such as BabyQuip Opens a new window ). 

Consider bringing a SlumberPod Opens a new window , which is a blackout tent that goes over the pack 'n' play. If your baby sleeps best in dark spaces, you can also pack travel blackout curtains or tape black garbage bags over the windows.

Don't leave home without the sleep accessories your baby is familiar with, such as a white noise machine, sleep sack or swaddle, and pacifier.

Breastfeeding, pumping, formula bottles, and solids feeding supplies

Depending on how you're feeding your child, you'll need certain gear. (And if you have a newborn, you'll also want a burp cloth on hand.)

Breastfeeding

Pack a daytime nursing bra, sleeping bra or tank, travel breastfeeding pillow (Boppy makes an excellent one Opens a new window I used on a plane with my then 4-month-old), and any nipple skincare products you use (creams, butters, pads, and the like). 

You may also want to bring some sort of shawl to drape over the baby for in-public feeds. (This doubles as a way to keep both of you warm on chilly flights). 

I've also traveled with breast pumps – both the Spectra (an electric pump ) and the original Elvie (a wearable pump). If the latter works for you, I highly recommend it as I was able to use it during the flight . You'll also need pump cleaning supplies (such as a brush, soap, drying rack, and on-the-go cleaning wipes), a pumping bra , milk storage bags , and bottles to feed the baby. And don't forget to bring a charger for the pump!

If you plan to freeze any extra milk, bring a freezer bag and ice packs. Frozen breast milk is easier to get through security than fresh milk, which may require testing. Read more about breast milk travel regulations .

Formula feeding

Ensure you're packing enough formula for the trip by measuring what your baby eats in a day and then bringing extra. You'll want more than enough in case of travel delays or spills. For in-flight travel, you can pre-measure formula , and store it in a Ziploc bag or bottle. Bring filtered water, or buy it at the airport to make a bottle in a snap.

You'll also need to bring bottles (I typically bring two), nipples, and bottle washing supplies (like a brush, soap, and drying rack). If your baby prefers warmed milk, you can pack a thermos. For your travel day, fill it with hot water and use that to warm up a bottle on the go. There are also travel bottle warmers .

First and foremost, you'll need to bring enough food for the travel day. (Squeeze pouches are always a great idea.) Additionally, pack kids' silverware ( spoon and fork), grippy plates and bowls, a sippy cup for water, spill-proof snack cups, and food storage containers. We always travel with an easy-to-wipe silicone bib (which also can save an outfit if your baby is a messy eater).

Unless your baby is going to sit on your lap for every meal (which might be miserable for you), you'll need to rent a high chair or bring a fold-up one (like the Bombol pack-up booster Opens a new window , which packs flat).

The easiest way to get a high volume of diapers to your destination is to send a package to the hotel in advance. Otherwise, throw a sleeve or two in the stroller bag or car seat bag (as diapers take up precious space in suitcases) and buy more when you get there. 

If you are bringing diapers with you, count how many diapers your baby typically uses in a day. Then add enough for at least one extra day, since you never know how a trip will pan out. Here are some quick calculations, but note that every child is different:

Newborns: eight to 12 diapers per day

2-3 months: eight to 10 diapers per day

3-6 months: seven to nine diapers per day

6-12 months: five to seven diapers per day

You'll also need wipes (throw extra packs in the car seat bag!), a travel changing mat (or disposable changing pads), diaper disposal bags, and diaper creams (Aquaphor, butt paste, etc.). Remember to bring swim diapers if you're going somewhere with a pool or beach.

Clothing, outerwear, and shoes

Little ones, especially newborns, go through multiple outfit changes a day thanks to spit-up, blowouts, and other unexpected events. Pack about two outfits per day and extra pajamas (as the same principles apply overnight). Don't forget socks, shoes if you have a walker, and layers. (Babies get cold and hot quickly.)

If you're headed somewhere tropical, toss in a swimsuit, hat, and UPF clothing. For cooler climates, make sure your baby has cozy sweaters, booties, and a warm hat.

Some hotel rooms only have showers, and if your baby typically washes in a tub, you'll need to get creative. We've used an oversized kitchen sink as a makeshift bathtub, and we've also rented  baby tubs or brought an inflatable one. Plan this in advance.

You'll also want to bring travel baby shampoo , body wash, and lotion – especially if your little one is sensitive to fragrance. We've also brought a baby towel and familiar bath toys to help our kids adjust to a new setting.

Health and safety

You won't regret traveling with a baby first aid kit. It can include band-aids, infant pain reliever, any other medicine or prescription ointments your baby uses, a thermometer, insect repellent, and baby-safe sunscreen. Pro tip: Throw in a few vomit bags for potential motion sickness incidents.

Consult with your child's pediatrician with any questions for this packing category.

Entertainment

What you pack comes down to parental and baby preferences. A tablet, preloaded with shows and movies, can be helpful to get through a flight or long car ride. If screentime is not on your agenda, try books, activity pads, coloring books (specifically the "magic marker" ones Opens a new window for less mess), and reusable stickers (great for sticking on plane or car windows).

Once you're there, you might want to have tummy time mats , sand toys , or baby dolls on hand. You can have toys delivered to your hotel from services like BabyQuip Opens a new window , or pack a selection of "surprise" playthings yourself. And don't forget your baby's favorite stuffie or lovey!

You'll never be prepared for all situations, so level-set expectations, but you can still be very prepared for most! 

To start, your baby will need a passport if you're traveling internationally . 

Also, grab extra diapers (at least a day's worth), a pack of wipes, a travel diaper pad, and diaper creams for mid-flight diaper changes . Pack an extra change of clothes for both you and the baby, because if they're sitting on your lap, any mishaps (spit-up, throw-up, or massive poop) may end up on you, too. Plastic bags – to catch vomit or store stained clothes – also come in handy. 

Bring a full day's worth of food and some extra, as well as anything you need for breastfeeding and pumping. If your flight is delayed, you'll be so grateful to have a pump, milk bags, and a cooler on hand. (It's happened to me.) 

Add in the first aid kit and meds. Then stuff as many toys as you can in the extra space left.

Print or download our BabyCenter-approved checklist for easier packing when traveling with a baby.

Was this article helpful?

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BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world. When creating and updating content, we rely on credible sources: respected health organizations, professional groups of doctors and other experts, and published studies in peer-reviewed journals. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're seeing. Learn more about our editorial and medical review policies .

American Academy of Pediatrics. 2023. Tips for Traveling with Young Ones this Holiday Season. https://www.aap.org/en/news-room/news-releases/health--safety-tips/american-academy-of-pediatrics-tips-for-traveling-with-young-ones-this-holiday-season Opens a new window [Accessed February 2024]

American Academy of Pediatrics. 2023. Safe Sleep. https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/safe-sleep/ Opens a new window [Accessed February 2024]

Transportation Security Administration. Undated. Is Breast Milk, Formula and Juice exempt from the 3-1-1 liquids rule? https://www.tsa.gov/travel/frequently-asked-questions/breast-milk-formula-and-juice-exempt-3-1-1-liquids-rule Opens a new window [Accessed February 2024]

Lauren is a New York-based content director, writer, and brand consultant. She is a #girlmom to a school-age daughter and a toddler.

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Tips & Tools

Is it safe for my baby to travel in a car seat for hours at a time.

Dina DiMaggio, MD, FAAP

If you need to travel with young infant, a road trip may seem like a good option. After all, packed planes can expose babies to more germs.

If you're considering a longer car ride with your baby, here are some tips to help keep them safe and comfortable.

Check the car safety seat

If you plan to hit the road, it is important to make sure that your infant's car seat is properly installed. Be sure to read the instructions that came with the seat. The car seat needs to be rear-facing and installed at the correct angle.

Following the manufacturer's instructions for installation angle helps prevent your baby's head from slumping down in the seat. You want to avoid a chin-to-chest position that blocks their airway. Also, be sure the five-point harness system is correctly adjusted and pulled snug to your baby at all times while riding in the car.

While on the move, babies can sleep in a properly installed car seat in the car. Car seats are designed not only to protect a baby in a crash, but are also tested to keep babies in safe sleep positions if they doze off.

Still, car seats are not ideal for very extended periods when the baby is not being closely watched while sleeping. And they should not be considered a safe place to sleep for the baby outside of the car.

Ride in the backseat with your baby

It is always best to have an adult or responsible older child in the backseat with your baby to easily take care of their needs during the trip. This can help your baby stay on a schedule as much as possible. It allows you to feed them at their usual times (if bottle feeding), play with them, keep an eye out for issues such as car sickness and know when to stop for a diaper change. Being right by their side to sing, read or even massage them, will help avoid tears and make for a smoother journey.

Take regular breaks

It is important for you and your baby to get out of the car every few hours and take a stretch to avoid restlessness. Try to take a break every 2 to 3 hours for a day trip and every 4 to 6 hours at night to change diapers or soiled clothes, or to feed your baby. Never attempt to breastfeed in a moving car.

Before hitting the road, be prepared and know where gas stations and rest stops are on the way. In case you decide you need a longer break, it's a good idea to know where baby friendly hotels are located. If you aren't sure there will be a safe sleep space at your destination, bring a bassinet or portable play yard with you, since it's not safe for your baby to sleep in the car seat once you arrive.

Have essentials close by

Pack a diaper bag or cooler for the back seat to have handy essentials at your fingertips. This may include:

extra diapers, wipes, diaper cream, changing pad, clothes, garbage bags to dispose of diapers, and hand sanitizer

formula or breast milk kept on ice or in a cooling bag, and bibs

pacifiers, a favorite soothing toy, books, and a device to play music for entertainment

a thermometer

Have snacks and water readily available for yourself, too! If you need to stop for a coffee to go, remember not to leave your baby unattended in the car even briefly. Children can suffer heat stroke very quickly in hot cars.

Consider traveling when it best fits your infant's schedule

If you are traveling for a few hours, consider an early morning trip when your baby may still be sleeping, or during longer nap times. For longer trips, consider driving at night when your baby is normally asleep for the night.

Plan on things not going according to plan

Traveling with an infant can be stressful. It's important to take little bumps in stride and not get too stressed out when things don't go exactly according to plan. Focus on the positives: traveling in a car allows you to take as many stops as needed and to follow your own schedule.

Talk with your pediatrician if you have any questions about traveling with your infant.

More Information

• Ask the Pediatrician: When can children get the COVID-19 vaccine?
• Car Seats: Information for Families
• Preventing Child Deaths in Hot Cars
• Road Trip Play Ideas for Backseat Fun

​Dina DiMaggio, MD, FAAP, is a board-certified pediatrician at Pediatric Associates of NYC and at NYU Langone Health. She is the co-author of ​ The Pediatrician's Guide to Feeding Babies and Toddlers , a comprehensive manual written by a team of medical, nutrition, and culinary experts. She also serves as an AAP spokesperson. Follow her on Instagram @Pediatriciansguide .​

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Details here .

Road Trip with a Baby: A Survival Guide for Parents

Nasreen Stump

Any other over thinkers out there? Did you land here after Googling 10 different variations of “how to road trip with a baby” or “what baby road trip essentials do I need to pack?” That first trip (and second and third) can be hard. And just when you’ve gotten the hang of traveling with a newborn baby , they get older and change. Then there are new things to learn and tips and tricks for that next stage.

We’ve got you covered! These tips were collected over thousands of miles road tripping with four kids through all of the baby stages. You’ll learn what to pack (always a pee pad!), how to handle diaper changes, even how to juggle driving and breastfeeding.

Road Trip with a Baby: The Basics You Must Know

As a mom of four kids who regularly drives cross country solo with the kids to see the grandparents, I’ve been there. Sit back and relax. I’m going to walk you through some of the most important things to know before baby’s first road trip including:

• How to easily change diapers on the road (even if your baby wears cloth diapers)
• What to pack
• How to optimize your diaper bag
• The best time to drive
• How to handle breastfeeding on a road trip

The most important thing you need to know for that first trip with baby? Everything may not go smoothly.

Read More: Complete packing list for traveling with a baby. What to bring and what to leave at home!

Parenting is a moving target. One day may go 1000% better than you planned and the next day starts low and plummets from there. Traveling with a newborn baby can be daunting.

The key for a successful road trip with baby? Patience and the knowledge that it might be hard.

The great part about roadtripping with baby? Unlike flying with a baby , the only people dealing with the crying, smells and chaos are the people who agreed to get into your car. Plus you’ve got more space to bring all of the baby road trip essentials that make life easier. So pack some Tylenol and read on.

Read More: Get all of our best SheBuysTravel tips for traveling with babies .

Safety First: Here’s How to Check Your Car Seat

It’s every new parent’s nervous thought: Did we install the car seat correctly? I mean they’ve invented baby sleeping devices that self-rock and still some car seats remain counter-intuitive in their installation.

One of our top travel tips? Take advantage of car seat safety techs. Check with your local fire department, ambulance service or hospital to see if there is a car seat installation expert on staff.

My husband is a paramedic and routinely gets folks at the station looking for help. While they are happy to assist, try to call ahead (not 911!) so they can plan for you. You can also search on the National Highway Traffic Safety website by zip code .

Knowing that your car seat is properly installed can help you feel more confident going into your road trip with baby.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Do you know there is one other step you can take to protect your child in case of an accident?  Label the car seat with important care and contact information in the event you cannot speak for yourself or your child.

Road Trip Tips to Get Baby Ready for a Long Car Ride

Call me Captain Obvious, but I have to say it: One of the ways to get babies ready for a long road trip is to drive them around!

Start with short drives around town and work up to longer stretches. This can also be a great way to change up scenery and get out of the house. A new baby is an adjustment. Pretty scenery will do you both good.

It’s really important to get baby used to the feeling of a car seat before your road trip. If the first time your kiddo spends extended time in the seat is your 7-hour holiday road trip, things may not go smoothly for you. Give baby a chance to get used to the sensation of a five-point harness over a few short rides.

Baby Road Trip Essentials: What to Pack for a Road Trip with an Infant

We know. The urge to pack each and every thing you might possibly need is strong. Very strong. But unless you’re going somewhere too remote for Walmart, you’ll be able to buy anything you forget. Besides, that gives you an excuse to swing into Target, use the changing table, grab a Starbucks and buy more diapers, right?

From the best strollers for travel to tips for potty training on the road, get all the info you need before taking a road trip with a baby or toddler!

Baby Road Trip Essentials: Feeding

• Bottles or sippy cups (if needed)
• Pumped milk or powdered formula (pack room temperature bottled water if you’re using formula)
• Baby food (if your baby is at that point) Personally I love these spoons that screw onto the pouches if you’re still spoon feeding baby. No jars or bowls to worry about!
• Bibs and burping cloths

Diapering and Bodily Fluids (Babies are Gross)

• Diapers, baby wipes, diaper cream, a changing pad and bags for dirty diapers. I recommend one of the changing pad “kits” from Amazon that clips shut and holds everything. It is way easier to haul into a quick pit stop than a full diaper bag. I love this one because it can hang off the seat back and dispense wipes. Perfect for quick car changes.
• Two changes of clothes for baby
• A change of clothes for you
• Pee pads for the car seat . It is a known fact that if you don’t have one in the seat, the diaper will leak.
• Diaper cover. I know it’s overkill but we actually put one of these diaper covers over disposables on the road. We were traumatized by a poo incident while waiting to cross the border after a trip to Montreal.

Safety Items

• Hand sanitizer
• Sanitizing microwave bags. These were a huge favorite of mine for sanitizing bottles, pump parts, teething toys and more while on the road. Most hotel lobbies have a microwave even if there isn’t one in the room.
• Stylish and protective baby sunglasses.
• A sun shade. Also consider infant sunscreen when traveling with your newborn baby. Sunburns can and do happen through car windows.

Baby Road Trip Essentials to Make Your Life Easier

• Baby carrier . I’m a huge babywearing advocate and a good baby carrier can make quick stops easy and hands free (especially if you need to pee too!).
• Board books for an older baby who can hold them. I strongly recommend bath style books. They’re easy to wash off and sanitize.
• Pacifier. If your kiddo uses one, bring extra. They tend to “jump” out of the car whenever you open the door.
• Car seat cover & back of seat organizer . You know what’s awesome? When snacks spill in the car and grind into your seat. Not. I love putting a seat cover under the car seat. Get the kind with the pockets so you can stick in a few extra diapers and a bottle for easy access.
• A copy of baby’s birth certificate or passport. No it’s not required if you’re on the highway instead of an international flight but trust me, better safe than sorry. It’s not a bad thing to have something with you that identifies the baby as yours.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Double check your routes to make sure there are no accidental border crossings on your route. Family travel is tricky enough without having a chat with border patrol. And yes, we have a real life story about this. Crested a hill in Vermont and oops, we were in Canada.

How To Change a Diaper in the Car: Baby Road Trip Essentials That Help

Ahh, the fun of car diaper changes. If you’re roadtripping with a newborn and it’s your first baby, on the go diaper changes can be overwhelming. There are a few options for easy diaper changes on a road trip with baby:

• Diaper changes at rest stops, gas stations, restaurants or even a Target or baby supply store you swing into quickly.
• Use your own changing pad and do the diaper change in your car.

The pros of a store or rest stop: Chances are good you’ll find a proper changing table. The cons? You don’t control the cleanliness.

The pros of your car? You can take your time and control the cleanliness. The cons? One blowout or a rolling baby and you might end up with a new scent in your car.

I’m a car change fan. As a proud minivan driver, I have one of the center chairs flipped up providing for plenty of space.

Another great option is the front passenger seat, but be sure to cover it up first.

The most important car diaper change tip? Have all your supplies laid out before you attempt the change. This includes opening the top of the wipes. Keep one hand on baby at all times.

SheBuysTravel Tip : Bring empty grocery bags or a roll of small trash bags. When poop happens in the middle of nowhere, you want to be able to wrap that bad boy up and trap the odor. Riding with the windows down is not conducive to a happy baby. 

What Is the Best Time to Drive with a Baby?

Obviously the answer to the best time to drive with a baby is going to vary from infant to infant. However, keeping track of your child’s natural rhythms, nap times and preferred schedule will help you plan.

One mistake I see way too many baby parents make is trying to drive all night while baby sleeps. Even if your plan works and they do sleep, you end up exhausted and still have a baby to take care of. Plus you run the risk of hitting night construction and dealing with other drivers’ poor decisions and impairments.

Still planning to drive at night? Take a short test night drive with baby before the trip! I like to drive until 10pm or so. Two of my babies did not agree with this. My oldest daughter would sob uncontrollably if it was dark out and no one was holding her hands. Any night driving had to have a grown up in the back seat. My youngest son? He’s fine if he’s asleep. But if he wakes up and it’s dark out? He’ll cry until we stop. Figure out what your baby needs.

Other things to consider when mapping your trip? Traffic. The majority of babies I’ve come across do best in a moving car. Try to work around city rush hours and heavy traffic in highway construction zones so you aren’t trapped in a car at a standstill with a crying baby.

Tips For Breastfeeding on a Road Trip: Baby Road Trip Essentials

Breastfeeding on a road trip can seem like a gargantuan undertaking. It can be done!

The most important thing is a good support system. That includes you! If you self-doubt and question whether you can handle it, it will make things more difficult. You can do this if you put your mind to it. We believe in you!

How to Breastfeed on a Road Trip

• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. It is a natural reaction to try to drink less on a road trip because you’re unsure about “potty stops.” Breastfeeding? You NEED keep up your fluid intake.
• Allow extra time. Traveling with a newborn baby and making feeding stops takes time. Stopping to use the restroom takes time. Plan for that time so you aren’t frustrated later.
• If you pump, invest in a car charger for your breast pump. Traveling with another adult? You can pump while that person drives and feed baby bottles later if you wish.
• Pack a small cooler . If you’re pumping, you’ll need somewhere to store pumped breast milk. If you’re nursing, it’s also a great place to store liquids and snacks for Mom.
• Wear nursing tops or clothes that make it easy to pump or breastfeed. Bring a nursing cover if it makes you feel more comfortable. Know your rights about nursing in public. You can see laws bystate on this site .
• Practice good nursing hygiene and habits. The last place you want to end up with an infection or breast issue is on a road trip. Pump or feed regularly to avoid mastitis. Don’t wait too long just to get miles in. Wash your hands routinely or use hand sanitizer.

SheBuysTravel Tip: We always recommend keeping a first aid kit in your car for the whole family on car trips. If you’re breastfeeding you may want to add in a lanolin-type product for any nipple-related ailments.

Traveling with a Newborn Baby: You’re Ready for Your Road Trip with Baby

Well, I hope my thousands of miles of baby roadtripping proves helpful. What other questions about traveling with a newborn baby do you have? We are always happy to answer!

5 responses

I’m really anxious about the feeding part that’s why we bought electric breast pump. Since I can’t breastfeed my baby while in the road.

We are taking an almost 4 hour road trip this next week & I’m highly anxious about the drive. We have done road trips in the past & my son who almost refuses to sleep in the car seat will just scream when he’s tired until he can’t take it any longer. In the past we have done day trips, he is sleep trained and self soothes here at home, so I am considering leaving around bedtime this go around. What makes me nervous is if we leave at bedtime & he still doesn’t want to sleep in the car. Should we leave during the day & possibly skip a few naps OR leave at night & possibly mess up nighttime sleep ? the struggle is real. Thanks

It’s a great source of knowledge; I think it will be helpful for lot of people who are looking for road trip with a baby a survival guide for parents . Thank you very much for sharing this article, this is really helpful for me, thanks again and looking for more in future!

This is probably the most detailed article written about road trips with kids that I have ever read. And, I have read a lot of such articles. By the way, origami can be a great toy to keep them busy when you don’t want them disturbing you. On top of that, frisbee is an also a great toy for the break time, and it doesn’t require much space as well.

Thank you so much! The frisbee and origami are great ideas as well.

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37 Best Travel Tips for Traveling With an Infant, Older Baby, or Toddler

Family travel is exciting for you and your kids and can create special memories that last a lifetime, whether you’re off on an adventure abroad or simply going to visit Grandma. But traveling with an infant, older baby, or toddler requires a little extra preparation to ensure a safe and comfortable trip. We’ve got the answers to common questions surrounding baby travel—short and long—plus a list of all the essentials and 37 tips for traveling with the little ones!

How Soon Can You Travel With a Newborn Baby?

When is it safe to travel with a newborn? It’s always wise to check with your healthcare provider before traveling with an infant. Your provider will likely offer specific guidance on whether you should or shouldn’t travel with your little newborn, depending on your little’s one's age and health status, as well as more general advice on when you can travel with a baby or older child. Whenever you do end up traveling with your little one, keep some safety precautions in mind. Your child is still developing their immune system, so it’s important to take protective measures, especially when flying or in crowded locations, such as

frequently washing hands

using hand sanitizer

avoiding visibly ill travelers.

Besides these basic safety precautions, keep reading for more tips on traveling with infants, plus older babies and toddlers, which include additional measures that will help keep your little one healthy, safe, and comfortable.

37 Tips for Traveling With an Infant, Older Baby, or Toddler

There are many ways you can help keep your infant, older baby, or toddler safe while traveling, and ensure that the trip is comfortable for all involved. It’s best to always consult with your child’s healthcare provider before traveling, especially with newborns or infants. Younger babies are more vulnerable than older babies and toddlers, so consider the provider’s advice and tips for traveling with an infant. Knowing how to travel with an infant isn’t much different from knowing how to travel with an older baby or toddler, but age can impact strategy. For example, traveling with a toddler opens up more opportunities for activities on your trip! You’ll probably notice that traveling with a 2-year-old is a lot more interactive than when your little one was just 3 or 6 months old. To cover all the bases, we’ve included 37 tips for traveling with babies of any age, but some apply more to younger babies, like infants and newborns, whereas others are more geared toward older babies and toddlers. However, all are worth considering when traveling with kids of any age and whether you’re flying to Paris or hopping in the car for a day trip.

1. Update Immunizations

Before you travel, including by car, on an airplane, or anywhere abroad, ensure your baby has had all the necessary immunizations. Following an immunization schedule is key to keeping your little one healthy throughout their life and, of course, when traveling. If you plan to travel abroad, be aware that some countries require additional vaccinations. You’ll want to consult your child’s healthcare provider for specific advice before planning any overseas trips, and you can contact the U.S. State Department for general information. As children will need immunizations and boosters throughout their early years, this tip also applies to travel with infants, older babies, and toddlers.

2. Consult Your Child’s Healthcare Provider

Remember that your baby’s healthcare provider is your ally and a great source of information. Don’t hesitate to be in touch if you have any questions about traveling with an infant or how to best travel with a baby of any age. If you’re thinking of traveling with a newborn, the provider may suggest waiting in some cases, such as if your little one has an underlying health condition or was born prematurely.

3. Collect Medications and Important Documents

Before setting off on your adventure, remember to pack any medication your child will need while away from home. You can also purchase a sturdy folder to keep any important documents, such as your baby’s vaccination record, copies of recent medical reports, passport, etc. When traveling with an infant, older baby, or toddler, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and bring everything you might need!

4. Do Some Research

One of the best tips for traveling with newborns or older babies and toddlers is to hunt for and gather relevant information ahead of time. Besides things like looking up vaccination requirements, you can also research details about accommodations and activities. Some hotels offer amenities that may come in handy when traveling. For example, if you’re breastfeeding your baby , you might want a refrigerator in your hotel room to store extra milk.

5. Allow Extra Time

Always remember that traveling with an infant or baby of any age means everything will take a little more time (or sometimes a lot more time!). Be sure to start early and allow extra time when packing the car or getting to the airport, going through security, checking into your accommodation, eating out, etc. This additional time makes for a smooth trip and also helps keep stress to a minimum.

6. Bring Those Baby Essentials

Although your research 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, etc. Keep these in a separate diaper bag for easy access! Our baby travel checklist below includes all these items and more.

7. Don’t Forget Favorite Toys or Blankets

Your little one is still getting used to the world around them, so bring 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, so be sure not to leave Mr. Rabbit (or any other "lovey") at home!

8. Double Check Car Seats

Whether traveling with your infant, older baby, or toddler by car or plane, double-check any car seats you use for safety . Look up the expiration date to make sure the seat hasn’t expired, and ensure that it’s properly installed.

9. Keep Feedings and Sleep Schedules Consistent

When traveling with babies, especially newborns and infants, it’s best to keep feeding and sleep schedules consistent, even when crossing into other time zones. It’s hard for children to adjust to new routines, and a little consistency will do wonders. If you’re moving across several time zones and it’s impossible to stick to the same feeding times, try to adjust your schedule gradually. However, what’s most important is feeding your baby when they’re hungry, regardless of the hour, and giving yourself some extra grace.

10. Bring a First-Aid Kit

In addition to all your essential must-have items, it’s also helpful to have your baby’s first-aid kit with you when traveling. You can keep one in the car, diaper bag, or your little baby’s overnight bag. Do you have all the baby necessities in your diaper bag? Take our quiz below to find out!

11. Wash Hands Frequently

Although briefly mentioned above, this is one of the most important tips for traveling with an infant or child of any age, and it deserves a friendly reminder! Because your little one is still building their body’s natural immune defenses, they’re more susceptible to catching colds, flu, or other infections. And because you’ll be carrying your newborn while traveling or holding your baby’s hand, it’s best for you to wash your hands frequently and use hand sanitizer.

12. Stay Hydrated

Traveling in general, but especially traveling by plane, is dehydrating to the body. Staying hydrated yourself means staying healthy and alert for your child. To keep your newborn hydrated, you’ll want to feed them more often (if needed), and older babies and toddlers will need sips of water throughout the day. Hydration is also very important if your little one has diarrhea while traveling, which is common.

13. Bring Disposable or Hybrid Diapers

When you’re traveling, nothing beats the convenience of disposable diapers. Another option is a hybrid system, like Pampers Pure Hybrid Starter Kit, which uses reusable covers and disposable inserts to cut down on waste.

14. Provide Entertainment

You may find that your newborn sleeps through much of the trip, but that probably won’t be the case for an active older baby or toddler! When traveling with a baby who’s a bit older and more alert, it helps to provide some form of entertainment, whether in the car, on the train, or on an airplane. A soft toy or a picture book work well.

15. Bring Food and Snacks

You don’t have to travel with a baby to know that meals and snacks are an important part of any outing! 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 6 months. Good travel food for babies can be anything they regularly eat—the point is to keep their tummy happy!

16. Sing Songs

Singing is a wonderful way to bond and engage with your baby or toddler. It’s an entertaining way to pass the time on long car drives, for instance, and has the added bonus of helping to boost vocabulary as well as other important language skills and developmental milestones for babies . Before long your not so little one will be singing along and repeating their favorite songs, again and again.

17. Plan Car Games

In addition to singing songs, keep your little one entertained with some fun car games. Your toddler may enjoy the classic game I Spy or even counting things (with your help) they see out the window, like cows or red cars. Another idea is to build or purchase a travel tray, a simple tray that connects to the back of one of the front seats and provides lots of things to touch, look at, and listen to!

18. Pack Bedding From Home

When possible, pack bedding for your baby or toddler, which, of course, is easier when traveling by car or when you have extra space in your suitcase. Familiar feels and scents will help keep them at ease as they experience a disruption to their usual routine. If you’re flying far on a plane, just grab something small, like their favorite blanket or bedsheet, to help them feel “at home.”

19. Provide Extra Attention

Traveling with a baby or an older child often interrupts typical at-home routines, and your little one will probably need more attention from you. Some tips include extra hugs and snuggles during the day and at night, plus bringing interactive games and activities into the mix.

20. Maintain a Typical Meal Routine

Although traveling is a great time to try new foods or allow some “treats,” try to stick to your usual meal routines as much as possible. Let your older baby or toddler know that traveling can include trying new food while at the same time continuing to eat healthy foods and maintain normal mealtimes.

21. Look for Specials

Many accommodations and restaurants offer special prices or deals for families, which can help reduce costs. “Kids stay free” is a common feature; you can also see if a hotel provides complimentary meals or packaged discounts for kids and families. Consider working with a travel club or agency that can help you coordinate a trip with children in mind.

22. Ask for Assistance

With a baby, travel isn’t always an easy task to accomplish on your own. If your little one is feeling extra fussy on the plane or train and you’ve run out of ideas, ask an attendant if they have anything special for babies or young kids, such as a picture book or a pack of crayons. If you need a changing pad in your hotel room, call the front desk. It really does take a village, and many travel clubs, airlines, hotels, and more offer special assistance for kids and families!

23. Pack for the Weather

Take a look at the weather report before you leave and pack accordingly. Consider bringing some extra layers for cooler night temperatures or extra supplies in case of rain or snow. Socks, rain covers, a warm jacket, and a hat will all come in handy if the weather takes an unexpected turn.

24. Take Preventive Measures

It’s not unusual for an illness or another health-related issue to pop up when you’re on the go and away from home. Colds and sore throats, diarrhea, car sickness, mosquito bites or bedbug bites —all these scenarios are possible with any kind of travel, including travels with your baby. Although you might not be able to completely prevent all these issues, it helps to prepare. You can do so by

getting necessary vaccinations before traveling

checking hotel rooms, bus seats, or train cars for bedbugs

bringing your own food or eating only hot food that’s thoroughly cooked

eating only a light snack before traveling to lessen motion sickness

staying hydrated.

25. Remember Special Considerations When Flying

Don’t forget that flying with a child will require some extra steps. If you have any questions, consult your little one’s healthcare provider and contact the airline. For example, all equipment like car seats and strollers will need to be visibly inspected at the airport. Read more about air travel in our article about flying with babies .

26. Plan Age-Appropriate Trips

Of course, traveling with a 1-year-old is going to be a little different than traveling with a 2-month-old! It helps to plan a trip that works for your child’s specific age, so if you’re traveling with a 9-month-old baby, think of something to do that meshes well with their abilities and interests. A simple trip going to visit grandparents or where there are lots of playgrounds is all you really need! But, of course, kids love playing outdoors or at the beach, so see more suggestions on where to travel with a baby at the end of the article.

27. Plan Breaks

For travel of any kind, remember that kids need breaks, naps, and downtime. If you’re taking a road trip, for example, research your routes thoroughly and plan for pit stops and breaks. It’s not easy for wriggly little ones to sit for too long, and getting out of the car to stretch legs or enjoy an attraction along the way helps keep spirits and energy levels high. If you’re on a plane, get up and walk the aisle a few times for a little movement and stimulation. Or if you’re spending the day at a theme park, squeeze in some time in the shade with a blanket for a quick snooze or a calming activity, like reading.

28. Bring Craft Supplies

Your toddler may need something more interactive to keep them entertained while on a road trip, airplane, or in a hotel room. Basic arts and crafts for toddlers can keep your little one occupied. Even just some crayons and a coloring book will help.

29. Adjust Sleep Schedules 2 to 3 Days Before if Needed

As mentioned before, when traveling with infants and older babies, it’s better to try and stick to the same feeding and sleeping schedules. But when traveling with toddlers, you may have more wiggle room to adjust their routines. For short trips, you might not even need to consider this tip, but if you’re moving across multiple time zones, you can gradually adjust sleep and eating schedules to the new time zone a few days before departing on your trip.

30. Pack Books

Are you wondering what to pack when traveling with a baby or toddler? Put books at the top of your list! Any kind of books —picture books, storybooks, interactive books—will keep your little one entertained while traveling. And if you usually read before falling asleep, it’s important to maintain your bedtime routine while away from home.

31. Respect Boundaries

Traveling with babies and toddlers (or, really, kids of any age) is a lot of fun for everyone. But remember that a change in a routine can be difficult for children, so it’s important to respect any boundaries they put up. For example, if your child doesn’t want to give Grandma a hug this trip or go on a ride at a theme park, don’t force it. They might be feeling shy or nervous, and it’s best not to force interactions, even with family members or activities.

32. Allow Your Child to Make Decisions

One of the best tips for traveling with toddlers and older babies is letting them make some decisions as they start to dabble in independence. Ask them what they want to eat for dinner or what they’d like to wear. Keep decisions manageable for their little brains by offering two or three choices rather than asking open-ended questions. It will allow them to take ownership of the travel experience!

33. Try New Things

Make traveling with your baby or toddler even more memorable by encouraging new experiences. You’ll probably remember these trips forever, but to make them stick in your youngster’s mind, have some fun with unique activities that you can’t do at home. Plus, as your little one is growing and developing, they’ll naturally want to try new things and test newly developed skills!

34. Anticipate Big Feelings

Again, changes in routines can be difficult for kids to manage. Traveling means leaving home behind, sleeping in a strange bed, and being without the usual comforts. This may be stressful, confusing, or even a bit scary for your little one. If these emotions come out in the form of temper tantrums , crying, or resisting, give your child extra support and love.

35. Supervise Water Play

Baby travel or traveling with a toddler might include a little water play, like splashing around in the pool or at the beach. Drowning is one of the leading causes of death in kids of any age, and it can happen in seconds, whether children are swimming , playing in a shallow pool, or simply taking a bath. Watch children closely when in the water or during bath time.

36. Take Photos and Videos

With cameras built into phones, you probably don’t need a reminder to take photos! Still, be sure to capture the memories when traveling with your kids, especially as they get older. It will be fun for them to look back and remember the trip!

37. Keep a Scrapbook

Take a blank scrapbook with you and let your toddler draw or color in it each day of the trip. For infants and newborns, press their hand or foot into the page with a bit of paint and add photos. When you return home, you can add more pictures or little trinkets like ticket stubs to the book, and your child can keep it to remember the experience. As your babies get older, traveling with them will get more and more fun, so let them be part of making the memories!

Baby Travel Checklist

We know this list of tips for traveling with an infant, older baby, or toddler is quite thorough, so to make it a bit easier for you, you’ll find a handy baby travel checklist below! We’ve included all the baby travel items that will help support a trip of any kind with any age group. Whether you’re wondering what to pack when traveling with a baby or hunting for those baby travel must-haves, we’ve included them all! This baby travel checklist works for kids of all ages, so you can use it when traveling with infants, older babies, toddlers, or even older children. It also works for short or long trips, by car, plane, or train. You can also download a version of the checklist and use it at home when preparing and packing for any upcoming family trips.

INSERT DOWNLOADABLE LINK

Baby Travel: Where to Go

Now that you have all of our travel tips, it’s time to think about where to travel with your baby. Not all destinations and activities are suitable for young children, so we’ve rounded up some of our best ideas for kid-friendly travel destinations!

Where to Vacation With an Infant, Older Baby, or Toddler in the United States

Luckily, the United States is a big country packed with various travel opportunities for babies and young children. Because there are so many choices, we’ve rounded up a few suggestions for each of the following themes: National Parks Among the best places to go when traveling with a newborn, older baby, or toddler are national and state parks. When you explore the great outdoors, you can avoid cramped environments and secure your sweet little one to your chest or carry older babies in backpacks while you enjoy fresh air and nature. Of course, toddlers will probably want a little independence as they toddle around! Some suggestions for kid-friendly national parks include the following:

All these parks offer a range of hiking suitable for carrying sleeping newborns or curious infants, plus interesting experiences for more mobile toddlers. Watch your child’s eyes light up at the scene of geysers erupting in Yellowstone, birds singing in the Everglades, or the sky-high trunks of the towering Redwoods! Vibrant Cities Although nature is ideal for traveling with babies or kids of any age, new cities also offer a lot of entertainment for the entire family (including you!). The United States is so diverse with different cultures, and your little one can enjoy various activities that can enrich their development. The list of kid-friendly cities in the United States is nearly endless, so if you’re simply looking for a bit of inspiration or a few suggestions for exciting cities, perhaps consider the following:

All these cities offer fun for you and your kids, even if your infant is simply watching the buzzy world around them. Take your little one to look for seals at Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco, explore adobe architecture in Santa Fe, New Mexico, or listen to street music in New Orleans. Theme Parks Although some theme parks aren’t suitable when traveling with newborns, infants, or young babies, many can be a lot of fun for toddlers and older kids! However, some of these classics cater to kids of all ages, rather than just focusing on thrilling roller coasters for the big kids. Again, you’ll find plenty of fun theme parks throughout the country, but for a few suggestions, you could consider the following:

These theme parks offer exciting scenes for even the youngest guests but can also entertain older children if you have a brood of various ages. Watch your baby delight at meeting their favorite Disney, Sesame Street, or fairy-tale characters! Beaches Although infants shouldn’t experience any direct sunlight until they are at least 6 months , beaches can offer a relaxing place to be with your little one, as long as they’re properly shaded. For older babies and toddlers, the beach is an exciting source of pure entertainment! The United States has a lot of coastlines to consider; here are just a few ideas:

A beach vacation with an infant, older baby, or toddler will expose your little one to an entirely new world. Plus, all the above suggestions offer complementary activities that your baby may love, such as visiting wildlife education centers, observing tide pools, or having fun at neighboring playgrounds. Road Trips Like national parks, road trips are also ideal for traveling with infants or children of any age, as you don’t have to interact too much with other travelers who can spread germs to your family. Plus, road trips can combine all the aforementioned ideas into one exciting adventure! A road trip doesn’t have to be long; you can simply pack snacks and head over to Grandma’s house or into the big city. But the United States is also known for its signature stretches of highway, and some of the most popular road-trip routes include the following:

Best Places to Travel With an Infant, Baby, or Toddler Abroad

A vacation abroad is a terrific way to open up the world to your little explorer! Although infants and young babies probably won’t remember much about a trip abroad, you can still use the opportunity to introduce them to new cultures and experiences. And, who knows, perhaps a trip at such a young age will spark an interest in travel as your adventurous baby grows up! A list of the best places to travel with an infant, baby, or toddler is endless, so we’ve included just a few popular family-friendly destinations in different parts of the world. Of course, use your imagination and go where you want!

The Bottom Line

Traveling with young infants, older babies, toddlers, or kids of any age can be a lot of fun, but it also requires a little extra prep! We hope this article helps you prepare for future family trips:

Use our suggestions on where to go to plan memorable experiences for the whole family.

Download our baby travel checklist to ensure you don’t forget any of the must-have items you’ll need.

Consider all our tips for traveling with newborns, babies, and toddlers to help your vacation go smoothly.

Remember that there is no age limit when it comes to travel, but it’s best to take extra precautions when traveling with infants, as they have yet to build up their body’s natural immunity. Talk to your child’s healthcare provider before planning any travel so you know what vaccinations your baby will need.

Family travel is a way to build wonderful memories that last a lifetime! Savor these exciting moments, whether you’re taking a simple trip to Grandma’s house, venturing out on an epic road trip to national parks, or enjoying an international vacation.

How We Wrote This Article The information in this article is based on the expert advice found in trusted medical and government sources, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. You can find a full list of sources used for this article below. The content on this page should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult medical professionals for full diagnosis and treatment.

• Book: Caring for your baby and young child, birth to age 5, Sixth Edition Paperback – November 2, 2014 by American Academy of Pediatrics (Author)
• Medline Plus: Traveling With Children
• Zero to Three: Survival Strategies for Traveling With Your Baby or Toddler
• Medline Plus: Toddler Development
• Mayo Clinic: Infant and Toddler Health
• Healthy Children: Sun Safety
• Healthy Children: Travel Safety Tips
• Healthy Children: Car Safety
• CDC: Travel Recommendations for Nursing Families
• CDC: Drowning Facts
• CDC: Traveling With Children
• Healthy Children: Car Sickness
• La Leche League International: Travel

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What to Expect the First Year , 3rd edition, Heidi Murkoff. WhatToExpect.com, Flying With a Baby? Here's What to Know Before You Go , September 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Do Babies Need Passports? , October 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Best Travel Toys for Babies , February 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Baby Products You Can Take on a Plane , September 2020. American Academy of Pediatrics, Flying with Baby: Parent FAQs , November 2019. American Academy of Pediatrics, Is It Safe for Families to Travel Now? , August 2021. American Academy of Pediatrics, Travel Safety Tips , August 2018.  American Academy of Pediatrics, Is It Safe for My Baby to Travel in a Car Seat a Few Hours at a Time? , August 2021. Transportation Security Administration, Traveling with Children . Federal Aviation Administration, Flying with Children , March 2021. Mayo Clinic, Is Air Travel Safe for an Infant? , October 2019.

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When is it Safe to Travel with a Newborn Baby by Car or Plane? 13 BEST Tips from a Well-Traveled Mom of 4

• Last Updated: March 2, 2023

By Sarah Peerless

Inside: traveling with a newborn by car or by plane may feel a little daunting. find out when it’s safe to do so here, plus the best newborn travel tips for air and car travel..

You may not be itching to travel with your newborn in the first few weeks after delivery, but needs must, right?  Going to visit friends and family may leave you asking when is it safe to travel with a newborn by car or can newborns go on long car rides.

I wasn’t exactly keen to leave the comfort of the sofa in the early days but we had long-haul flights to take with both my first two babies before the age of 6 weeks.  So the question of when is it safe to travel with a newborn by plane came up pretty early for us.

Whether you’re traveling with a newborn by car locally, further afield or by plane, first off you need to know when is it safe to travel and how to do so.  What about during a pandemic?  Is it safe to travel with kids?

Find out when you can travel with a baby and how soon after birth can they travel by car and plane right here. 

This post contains affiliate links.  If you click on one and make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

How soon can you travel with a newborn after birth?

You may be wondering when you can travel with a baby because you need to get home from the hospital with your newborn soon after birth.  The likelihood is you need to travel some distance.  

You may specifically need to know how soon after birth can a baby travel by car.  Even if you don’t have your own car or you live very close to the hospital, you’ll probably make this journey by taxi or bus. Or maybe a friend or family member will drop you home.

This is absolutely fine. In this respect, you can travel as soon as you need to after birth, as long as you have the go ahead from your doctor to leave the hospital .

However, for longer distances and non-essential travel, ideally you want to wait until it’s deemed ‘safe’ to travel with a newborn.

When is it safe to travel with a newborn baby?

Most doctors advise to wait until your baby’s immune system has fully developed.  Or is, at least, better developed before traveling.  That means different ages for different babies. 

When is a baby’s immune system fully developed?

In this article , Dr. Sabella explains, “An infant’s immune system doesn’t mature until around 2 to 3 months old.”   That is for babies who are born full-term and have no other health conditions. 

To be safe, if you want to travel with your baby any significant distance it’s best to hold off until at least 3 months, but at the minimum wait until baby is 2 months old.

Like I said first up, we took long-haul plane journeys with our first two babies earlier than this, because it was unavoidable.  However, the advice is to wait until the 3-month mark.

Remember that if your baby is premature, they’re developmentally behind so it’ll take longer for their immune system to reach the maturity of a 3-month-old. 

If your baby was a month early, expect development around a month behind.  In which case you should wait until baby reaches 4 months before traveling.

When is it safe to travel with a newborn by car?

When it comes to traveling with a newborn by car, short distances such as to local doctor’s appointments and errands around town will be safe from birth as long as your newborn has no complicated medical issues.  

For longer car journeys of an hour or more, stick to the guideline of waiting until maturity of the immune system.  So, to be safe, 3 months or older.

Here are some common queries for traveling with a newborn safely.  Take note of these.

Is holding a baby in a car illegal?

In the United States, it is illegal for your child to be held in any car, including cabs. They need to be in an approved car seat that is manufactured for their age and size.

If you are traveling in and around the UK, the only time a child is allowed to ride without a car seat is in a taxi or minicab, a minibus, coach or van, in emergency situations and when there is no room for another car seat.  You can read more about the laws in the UK here . 

In Mexico, it depends on the state. In the State of Mexico and in Yucatan children must be in the back seat in a car seat. But in other states including Baja California, Chihuahua, and up to 18 other states there is no rule stating children must ride in a car seat. 

So definitely check the law in your home country and any you’re visiting ahead of time. 

Is holding a baby in a car safe?

Never mind what’s legal and in what country, at the end of the day it’s all about safety. Depending on the circumstance you find yourself in, you’re going to have to make the call.  

The best and safest practice is for your baby to always ride in an approved car seat and to never take your baby out while your vehicle is in motion.  

You may be tempted to breastfeed while in the car for convenience or to keep your baby calm, but this would put your newborn at risk, should you have an accident. 

Don’t be swayed by comments from parents or grandparents, determined to remain stuck in the past.  Ignore comments like this: “In my day, baby car seats weren’t even a thing”.  (Thanks Dad.)  

Roads are busier, cars faster, accidents and fatalities more common.  Car seats weren’t just invented to make more money from parents.  Although with the hefty price tag you might think so!   Use them.

If you need to breastfeed or your baby is crying, it is best to take a rest stop, let everyone get out and stretch their legs and tend to your newborn. 

What kind of car seat do I need for a traveling with a newborn?

When traveling with a newborn by car, you’ll need a car seat that has a five-point restraint system or harness and that faces to the rear.  Rear-facing has long been recommended by the AAP and in some states in the US and in many countries, this is a legal requirement. 

This is because the majority of car accidents involve frontal collisions, meaning everyone in the car is thrown forwards.  This is dangerous for a newborn with little muscular strength.  Traveling rear-facing will spread the force of the impact across the whole back.

You can choose between an infant seat or an infant to toddler convertible car seat.

Infant car seats

These go down to the smallest weight, usually around 4 or 5 lbs, so if your baby is early or measures small, an infant car seat will probably be your best bet.  For tiny babies and prematures, the seat may still seem enormous and you may need a newborn insert to help pad it out.

They typically have an upper weight limit of 30-35 lbs which usually means baby will be around 8 to 18 months old by the time they’re ready for the next seat up. 

Most infant car seats come out of the car easily, clipping on and off a car seat base that stays in the car.  This is convenient for getting baby ready and all strapped in while still in the house. 

Some can be used as part of a “baby travel system”, clipping onto the top of a push chair or buggy.

A convertible car seat

A convertible car seat is another option when traveling with a newborn by car. These start off as rear-facing car seats then, when your baby is ready to move to forward-facing, you simply switch the car seat around.  It effectively grows with them.

While some convertible car seats go down to 4 or 5 lbs, others will not be suitable until baby reaches at least 10lbs.  Even with convertible car seats that are rated for small babies, the car seat may seem enormous around a newborn.   

Either option will work, but most parents opt for an infant car seat for at least for the first 6 or 9 months as they’re a better fit and more convenient. 

How soon can a newborn travel long distances by car?

If you are taking a long-distance trip, again, it’s advised to wait until baby’s immune system has fully developed at around two to three months old. 

From a practical side, babies who are 3+ months old and have longer periods of happy wakefulness are easier to travel with as things are a bit more predictable.

Younger babies eat more frequently and are slower to feed, and may not yet be on any kind of feeding schedule . So traveling with a newborn is a little trickier.

How long can a newborn stay in a car seat on a long drive?

If you’re wondering how soon can a newborn travel long distance by car, you may be a little disappointed by the answer.

Car seat manufacturers recommend that babies don’t stay in a car seat for more than two hours in a 24 hour period.   Doesn’t get you very far does it?!  Again these are just guidelines; use your common sense and do what you need to do. 

Guidelines on length of trip when traveling with a newborn by car

30 minutes for newborns 0-4 weeks old.

As a general rule, babies that are under four weeks old do not have the neck strength to hold their heads upright. Some babies may be a little stronger a little earlier, but this is the guideline to follow. 

So in the first few weeks, when in the car seat, your newborn’s head can fall forward and risk restricting their airway. Clearly this is dangerous.

Restrict car journeys to 30 minutes and only using a car seat when traveling with a newborn by car, rather than using it around the house, for example. This is the best way to keep your baby safe. 

Even if your baby is asleep when they arrive at your destination, take baby out of the car seat. The safest place for a baby to sleep is on a firm, flat surface. 

2 Hour Rule

The two-hour rule is based on manufacturers’ recommendations that babies should not be in a car seat for longer than 2 hours in a 24-hour span.  This is a day-to-day recommendation. Occasional long-term travel can be done but with lots of breaks, at least every 2 hours.

15-30 Minute Breaks

How do you drive long-distance with a baby?  In this case 15-30 minute breaks are an absolute must.

If you’re in the car for an extended period of time, take a rest stop at least every two hours . Get baby out of the car seat for 15-30 minutes, longer if possible.

During this break, feed baby and allow her a little kick about on her back or put her on her front for some tummy time.  Anything to give those limbs some freedom of movement, having been restrained in the car seat.

What about a 4 hour car journey with a newborn?

For a 4 hour car journey with a newborn, the best plan would be to split the journey into two.  Do the first 2 hours in the morning. Then take a few hours break, then do the remaining 2 hours.  Or if you can split it into multiple shorter sessions even better.

Likewise, try to split longer journeys into smaller portions and spread them across the day as much as possible.

This is the best way for a 4 hour journey or longer distances with a newborn baby.  The rest stops will make it easier on all of you and will be healthier for your baby.   

Traveling with a 2 week old baby by car

It’s common to wonder about traveling with a 2 week old baby.  Your partner may have been off those first 2 weeks , the visits from family and friends may have dwindled and you’re at home alone.

You need to get out!

As long as you’ve recovered from birth sufficiently and had the go ahead from your doctor, it’s a good idea to get out the house with your newborn a little. It’s one of my top newborn hacks to get through those early weeks.

However, a 2 week olds immune system will not be sufficiently developed to go very far.  In addition, they won’t have much neck strength to adequately support their head while in a semi-upright position in the car seat. So you’ll need to stick with the 30 minutes for 4 week olds rule outlined above.

Ideally stick close to home.  You don’t even need to go in the car to get out.

To give yourself some fresh air and a change of scene, wrap your baby up well and pop them in the buggy or carry them in a baby wrap or sling.  As long as you keep them warm and safe and limit exposure to excessive germs they’ll be just fine. 

That means, avoiding strangers and curious kids leaning in and breathing all over them! Which is why a wrap or sling is preferable.  (Also best for keeping those tiny hands warm .)

Limit traveling with a 2 week old baby by car to short, essential journeys less than 30 minutes where possible.  And of course, if you’re in any doubt, check with your pediatrician first.  

Traveling with 2 month old baby by car

At 2 months old your newborn will be a lot bigger and stronger. They’ll be physically stronger and should be able to hold their head up unsupported, which means they should be able to go the full 2 hours in a car seat safely.

A 2 month olds immune system will be almost, if not entirely, fully developed. This means going to new places will pose far less of a risk of infection.

So you’ll be much less restricted when traveling with a 2 month old by car.  Simply stick to the 2 hour rule with 15-30 minute breaks, as outlined above.

When is it safe to travel with a newborn by plane?

The guideline to wait to travel long distances until your newborn’s immune system has fully developed is possibly even more important when it comes to air travel.  Several hours confined in the small space of an aircraft with the AC pumping will expose your little one to a very unfamiliar variety of germs.

However, life goes on and this is not legally enforced…  

How old does a baby need to be to fly?

Regulations differ by airline, but all of them will allow a baby to travel long before the 2-3 month mark, some as early as 1 week old.  Some airlines will allow a younger baby to fly with a note from their doctor. 

However, if you can wait longer, so much the better.

Do I need to get documentation to travel with a newborn by plane?

At a minimum airlines require a birth certificate or passport to fly.  You may also need a doctor’s note. If you don’t have your baby’s birth certificate yet, you need to take other medical documentation stating when the baby was born like a crib sheet, hospital discharge papers, and other medical paperwork.  

Of course, this differs by airline, so check these details out before booking a flight.

Does my newborn need a passport?

If you are traveling with a newborn by plane and crossing an international border, you’ll need to get baby a passport.  This involves a heap of paperwork as well as the challenge of getting a good passport photo where baby’s eyes are open (which is often tricky with a sleepy newborn).

You can find the full rules for getting a US passport here at U.S Dept of State .  In brief, you’ll need: 

• Form DS-11 filled out by both parents or guardians
• Birth Certificate or if your baby was born abroad, you need a Consular Report of Birth Abroad 
• If you are divorced or have an adopted baby you will also need to produce legal documents like an adoption decree or a divorce decree
• Parents need to have an approved ID as well (bring the actual ID and photocopies of front and back of each ID) 
• Both parents need to be present or if not present you can find a list of workarounds at the   Dept of State Website   
• Provide a photo of the child (but some places will take the photo for you)  The best way to do this for a baby is to lay them on a white sheet or blanket on the floor. No one else (even a helping hand of someone) can be in the photo. 

Even if you don’t plan on traveling with your baby out of the country anywhere soon, getting a passport for your baby is a good idea.

What do I need to know about air travel with a newborn?  

Having lived in Africa the last 8 years with family back in the UK, we’ve more than our fair share of air travel.  This started when they were just 6 weeks old, before the recommended age of 3 months. 

So I reckon we’ve learnt a thing or two about traveling with a newborn by plane!  Here are some need-to-knows and after you’ll find tips and must-haves for traveling with a newborn baby by plane.

It’s going to be tough and a little stressful, but hopefully the reason for your journey will make it worthwhile 

I’m not going to sugar coat it, traveling anywhere with a newborn, baby or toddler for that matter, will come with a certain level of stress and discomfort. Traveling with a newborn by plane is probably the most difficult of the lot. 

Other than being prepared, both mentally and physically, there’s not much way around it!  

You’ll probably need to have your newborn on your lap with an infant seatbelt

This is not a legal requirement but enforced on an airline by airline basis. 

The first few flights we went on, I always used the infant seat belt, but after that, if it was optional, I never used it.  Apart from the fact that they are such a faff to put on, I saw little point. 

Your firm hold will give your baby the maximum safety, far more than the seatbelt.  There’s no harm in putting it on but I cannot see how it would really add anything in the event of turbulence or an accident.

For long-haul flights, bassinets are normally available but need booking

When traveling with a newborn by plane, bassinets are normally available on long-haul flights but there aren’t many of them and you probably need to book ahead.  Don’t forget as these will make your life a lot simpler.

Even if baby doesn’t sleep in it, the bassinets are in the extra leg-room seats so you’ll have much more space and the bassinet itself can be very useful to hold all baby’s bits and pieces.

If baby will sleep in the bassinet , this will mean you can get some proper rest, but beware – as soon as the seat belt signs come on, you will be required to take your newborn out, hold her and/or put the infant seat belt on.

Many airlines will let you take your stroller to the aircraft door – ask at check-in

When traveling with a newborn by plane, you may be asked to check your stroller into the hold of the aircraft with your luggage at check-in.  However,  often airlines will allow you to take it all the way to the aircraft door.

Having the stroller with you while you’re in the airport after check-in and going through security etc will make life so much simpler, not only to put your newborn in but also to help carry all your hand luggage/burp clothes, bottles and all the other baby gear you’ll need close at hand.

Picking up your stroller after disembarking varies by airline as well as airport

Only a handful of times has our stroller been waiting at the aircraft door after disembarking.  More often than not it’ll be taken to the luggage hall to the oversized/awkward bag section, which is often tricky to find.

If you’re going to be traveling with your newborn by plane regularly and this’ll continue into the baby and toddler years, this travel stroller Babyzen Yoyo would be a worthwhile investment. It packs so small it’ll fit into the overhead lockers of the aircraft.  Otherwise, I’d advise a small umbrella stroller.

It’s pricey but you can you really put a price on baby gadgets that’ll make travel so much easier? I think not!

Different countries may have varying rules on the liquids that can be taken aboard 

I’d always advise checking with the airport you’re flying out of, but bottled breastmilk and formula should be fine to take in your carry on luggage.  This is certainly true in the US and UK.  (Check the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule here, which doesn’t apply to pumped breastmilk, formula or juice in a toddler cup.)

A wrap or sling is essential to carry baby easily and safely without the stroller

A baby carrier or sling will make navigating the airport a lot easier for the times when you don’t have your stroller.  Or if your stroller never appears at the luggage hall. 

(This only happened to us once and it did land us with quite a useful tiny travel stroller, but it was a big hassle reporting and claiming for ours and made for a delayed journey and very grouchy, tired baby .  And mommy for that matter…)

Recommended baby carriers/slings:

For tiny newborns, a wrap or sling is the way to go. This Sleepy Wrap Carrier is the one I’m wearing in the photo above.

When baby is a bit bigger, this All Seasons baby carrier from LILLEbaby is a great all-rounder, allowing you to hold baby in 6 different positions.  Great for at home and when traveling with your newborn.

You probably won’t be able to move your newborn to a different seat

The crew will ensure there’s an infant life vest and oxygen mask at the seat you’re booked into, so won’t allow you to move seats or for your newborn to be passed to your partner in another seat mid-flight.

This can be really frustrating!

If you need to take a break, you’re going to have to switch seats with your partner so your newborn remains in the same seat.

Take off and landing can give a newborn earache – nursing or a paci can help

Just like adults, baby’s ears may be susceptible to the change in air pressure at take-off and landing.  Sucking can help. So feeding your baby or offering a pacifier on landing and take-off can help.

Flight attendants should happily provide you with boiling water for a bottle – ask if you need

Don’t be afraid to ask for this and anything else you may need.

Tips for traveling with a newborn by air

#1 the baby change facilities in the aircraft toilets are often very difficult to use – avoid using  .

Avoid using them if you can by checking and changing diapers before boarding.  In addition, if baby has a wet rather than a dirty diaper and you can be discreet (if you have a window seat and your partner is next to you) do a quick stealth diaper change at your seat.  

#2 Aircraft air conditioning can dehydrate – offer baby more milk 

Because of the recycled air, planes are notorious for leaving people feeling dehydrated. But this is even more true for small babies so offer your baby an extra feed/more milk than normal. 

If you’re nursing, you’ll also need to ensure you keep up with fluid intake which may mean asking for or buying extra water when on board.

#3 Some passengers will tut and look disapproving, others will be super helpful and sympathetic – just do your best!

Whatever state you or your baby are in, just concentrate on the task in hand.

My super fussy reflux baby actually spat up into someone’s shoes the one time – highly embarrassing – but we’ve laughed about this many times since.

#4 Pack as little hand luggage as possible when traveling with a newborn by plane

This is really hard and I rarely managed without a huge bag of baby gear accompanying us into the cabin.  But the less you carry, the easier it’ll be.  

#5 Swap your normal diaper change bag for an airplane carry on, either with wheels or backpack style

You either want to be hands-free (ie go for a backpack) or at not have to carry the weight of a bag (go for a wheeled bag).  First prize – a bag that has wheels and can be carried like a backpack, like this one – pictured in the photo above.

#6 If you’re flying in the evening or overnight, try to carry out as much of baby’s bedtime routine as normal before boarding

I’ve followed this newborn schedule with all of my 4, which includes a bath and bedtime routine in the evening and wind-down routine in the day before naps. 

For overnight flights, try to do as many of these elements as possible. Take baby to a baby changing cubicle, give her a sponge bath or wipe down, a little massage or apply some lotion etc, change the diaper and dress in her normal sleepwear . Just do all the things you’d normally do for bedtime at home. 

All these tasks will be quite a challenge on the plane, but while at the airport you’ll have the time and space to do this at your own pace.

If this routine is familiar to her, it’ll help settle her and get her body and mind in the zone for sleep. Then once you’ve boarded, all you need to do is give her that last feed before settling her to sleep.

#7 If you have some kind of sleep nest, take it! (Or consider buying one)

Not only can baby sleep in it when away, rather than a strange cot, these are soooo handy at the airport and on the plane, any journey in fact. 

It means you can put your newborn down on the floor safely, whenever you need to.  So if there are no spare seats or you want some hands free time.  I even used it on the plane, instead of the bassinet, which was handy to put other things in.  It easily squished into my hand luggage.

Try this sleep lounger/nest from Cosy Nation .

#8 Accept help and ask for it if you need

Most flight attendants will offer to help – take it!  You’ll probably find other passengers will also be jumping in to offer to help carry things, pass you things or even hold your newborn .

Likewise, if there’s something you need help with, ask.  

General tips for traveling with a newborn by plane or by car

These tips are relevant for any travel away from home.

#9 Try to recreate baby’s home sleep environment as much as possible when traveling 

Ensuring your newborn is in as familiar a sleep environment as possible will really help you all get a good night’s sleep when away from home. 

As well as all your newborn’s sleepwear, if you can take their bassinet or co-sleeper with you so much the better.  A travel bassinet may be a worthy investment if you go away a lot. 

If the bassinet they’re going to sleep in when away will be unfamiliar, take the bassinet sheet with you.  Ideally, clean but with a day or two’s use. 

Newborns are very comforted by familiar smells , including their own smell.  A sheet and their swaddle or sleep sack with some use will make them feel more at home.

#10 Take portable black out blinds

Darkness really helps newborns sleep well – it was pitch black in the womb.  They help prevent early morning wakings and short naps .  Hopefully your baby’s home sleep environement is pitch black. I.e. so dark you cannot see your hand in front of you when hold it out in front of you. 

This is one of my top recommended sleep strategies to help newborns sleep long stretches.

So I’d absolutely recommend these portable black out blinds which stick on to any window. I don’t go anywhere without 2 of these! You never know quite how many windows you’re going to need to cover when you’re away from home.

For solutions to black out the nursery, check out: 18 Best Blackout Shades/Curtains For Baby’s Nursery in 2023

#11 Try to stick to any routine you’re normally in at home 

Likewise, take your normal white noise machine or lullabies that you use at home.  Carry out the same bedtime routine while away and use the same baby products. Again, anything to replicate the steps you take at home to settle baby .

When it comes to traveling with a newborn by car, if you’re following a newborn schedule , try to plan the journey around naps and normal feed times.

#12 If you do buy anything specifically for your trip, use it at home first

For your newborn, this further helps with the familiarity of anything you want to use while away.  For example, if you have travel cot, get baby sleeping in it at home for a few weeks before going away

For you, it means you’ll also become accustomed with how to use any new contraptions and devices.  Some travel cots/Pack n Plays can be particularly challenging to put up and the last thing you want to do is have a battle late at night after a long journey…

#13 Understand, that despite your best efforts, your newborn will likely be a little unsettled while away

Expect your newborn to take longer to settle to sleep, perhaps more night wakings and/or a little clinginess.

Is it risky to travel with children during a pandemic, like Covid-19?

With more and more people getting vaccinated and more countries opening up to visitors, travel is on the rise again.  But is it safe to travel with children during a pandemic like COVID-19? 

The Washington Post released this article , where they spoke to Sahera Dirajlal-Fargo who specializes in pediatric infectious diseases and travel medicine in Cleveland. 

Dirajlal-Fargo said that we know more this summer than last summer and we can make safe choices when it comes to flying.  Shorter plane rides are better than long ones.

Parents should try and ensure their children are socially distancing, keeping masks on if old enough, washing hands or using hand sanitizer frequently and always before eating, drinking or touching their face.  

However, families with children who have complicated medical issues and deemed high risk are advised to stay home during a pandemic.

Conclusion: Minimize traveling with a newborn while baby is small

If you do find yourself needing to travel and wondering when is it safe to travel with a newborn by plane, the recommendation is to hold off until baby’s immune system is more mature. This reduces the risk of illness and infection.  

If you’re wondering when can you travel with a baby and how soon you can travel with your baby locally by car, then as long as your baby has a well-fitted and approved infant car seat it’s safe from birth. 

However, stick to the 30 minutes for 4 weeks guidance and minimize travel to essential journeys.

When it comes to h ow soon a newborn can travel long distance by car the recommendation is the same as air travel: when the immune system is better developed, at 2-3  months old.

At this age, 2 hours is recommended as the maximum for travel in the car in a 24 hour period.  If a longer car ride with your newborn is unavoidable, make sure you take plenty of breaks.  And remember, no holding your baby in the car – that’s illegal.

Hopefully, you’re a lot more clued up about traveling with a newborn by car and I hope the tips on traveling with a newborn by plane will be useful.

Happy travels! 

____________________________________________

For more tips for the early weeks with a newborn, these posts may be helpful:

• How to keep baby warm at night without a swaddle
• First night home with your newborn baby; what to expect & tips to survive it
• 6 newborn baby cues you need to know: understanding baby cues (printable chart!)
• How to help a newborn poop instantly! 11 tried & tested ways to relieve poopy struggles
• Is it OK to put baby to sleep without burping? (Yes, if you learn how to burp a sleeping baby)

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• Infant and toddler health

Is air travel safe for an infant?

Air travel is typically safe for most healthy, full-term infants after the first few weeks. Air travel may not be a good idea for babies born before their due date, called premature or pre-term.

Babies born early may still need time for their lungs to mature. So check with a healthcare professional before flying in a pressurized cabin or visiting high-altitude places.

And any infant with heart or lung problems should be cleared for air travel by a healthcare professional.

As you plan your trip, here are some things to keep in mind, such as the baby's age, your health and some basics of flying.

The baby's age, overall health

Experts caution against flying in the first seven days after a baby is born. Some healthcare professionals suggest not traveling for the first few months.

In general, babies and adults face the same risk of exposure to illness from travel. But a baby's immune system is still learning how to protect against germs. And in most cases, a baby's illness needs to be more closely watched by a healthcare professional.

Caregiver health and planning

It is important for caregivers to think about their own health too. Flying with a child can cause added sleep loss and stress. And adults are at risk for new germs and illness, as well.

Finding out what illnesses are spreading in your area and where you're going can help you prepare and take thoughtful action. And basic things like handwashing are even more important to prevent the spread of germs while traveling.

The baby's ears

Offering a baby something to suck on may help relieve the baby's ear discomfort. You can offer the baby a breast, bottle or pacifier to suck on during takeoff and the start of the landing process. It might help to try to time feedings so that your baby is hungry during these times.

Ask a healthcare professional when it's safe to fly with babies who have had ear surgery or an ear infection.

Also, airplane cabin noise levels are loud, mainly during takeoff. Cotton balls, noise-canceling headphones or small earplugs may limit your baby's exposure to this noise. This may help make it easier for your baby to sleep.

The baby's safety seat

Most infant car seats are certified for air travel. Airlines often allow infants to ride on a caregiver's lap during flight. But the Federal Aviation Administration recommends that infants ride in properly secured safety seats.

If you choose not to purchase a ticket for your infant, ask about open seats when you board the plane. It's possible an open seat could be assigned to your infant.

Don't be tempted to give your baby medicine, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl, others), to help the baby sleep during the flight. The practice isn't recommended, and sometimes the medicine can have the opposite effect.

Jay L. Hoecker, M.D.

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• Jana LA, et al. Flying the family-friendly skies. In: Heading Home With Your Newborn: From Birth to Reality. 4th ed. American Academy of Pediatrics; 2020. https://www.aap.org/en/shopaap. Accessed Oct. 30, 2023.
• Newborn-flying and mountain travel. Pediatric Patient Education. https://publications.aap.org/patiented. Accessed Oct. 30, 2023.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Traveling safely with infants & children. In: CDC Yellow Book 2024. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2024/family/infants-and-children. Accessed Oct. 30, 2023.
• AskMayoExpert. Infant Fever. Accessed Nov. 18, 2023.
• Schmitt BD. Pediatric Telephone Protocols: Office Version. 17th ed. American Academy of Pediatrics; 2021.
• Child safety on airplanes. Federal Aviation Administration. https://www.faa.gov/travelers/fly_children/. Accessed Nov. 18, 2023.

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Flying with a 4-Month-Old Baby: A Complete Guide

Walking around Honolulu Airport after a long flight from San Francisco.

Holding baby Scout outside Honolulu Airport.

My husband and I traveled very often before we had our baby daughter Scout, and we still wanted to continue our adventures as parents. At four-months-old we took Scout to New York City during the autumn season , and then at 6-months we took her to Oahu in Hawaii.

I was definitely nervous about flying with a baby for the first time, but it turned out to be fairly smooth. I did have some learning experiences that I will definitely be sharing in this blog post, and many more tips to help parents plan their baby-friendly air travel.

Landing in Hawaii with Baby Scout.

Daddy holding baby Scout on the airplane to Hawaii.

Everything to Do Before Your Trip

Booking your airline tickets.

Most airlines in the United States allow infants and toddlers under 2-years-old to fly for free. You are not guaranteed a seat for your baby if you do not specifically purchase a seat for them. On fully booked flights they will have to sit on your lap. We were lucky on a few flights - there were empty seats and the airline crew gave us a whole row so we could have a seat for Scout.

After you purchase your airfare tickets, you are supposed to call the airline and let them know you’ll be traveling with an infant. One of the adult’s boarding passes will have the baby’s ticket assigned to it (even though you didn’t pay for it). I don’t think it’s a huge deal if you forget to call, you can just let them know when you check-in for your boarding pass.

Seat Assignment & Time of Flight

If you are able to book a flight at a time when they are normally sleeping, then they’re likely to sleep most of the way. We had a red eye flight from San Francisco to NYC and Scout slept in my arms for a solid 5 hours.

If you’re able to select your seat, the window seat has more room and you can use blankets and jackets to create a comfortable sleeping nook next to the window.

If you end up seated away from your travel companion, don’t be shy about asking someone to swap seats. We had to do this on one of our flights because my husband’s seat was several rows away from mine. Our fellow passengers were very kind and understanding.

Diaper Bag Packing List for Baby

Having a fully-stocked diaper bag is very important for a successful flight with an infant. Most airlines will allow one carry-on diaper bag per child, in addition to your two allotted carry-on bags per person.

I recommend a hand’s free backpack diaper bag because you will probably need to carry your baby. Buy Buy Baby online has the best selection of backpack diaper bags .

Warm Baby Blanket - The temperature can be unpredictable on an airplane. This blanket will also help with making a makeshift bed for baby to sleep on.

Extra clothing in case baby’s diaper leaks or they are cold and need more layers.

Extra diapers , wipes and diaper rash cream .

Formula and bottles - I recommend the Ready-to-Feed formula bottles for traveling. Keep reading to below section on TSA rules for baby formula.

Pacifiers , pacifier straps and baby-safe disinfecting pacifier wipes .

Small baby books and soft-cloth baby books .

Puffs and dissolvable snacks . My favorite brand for baby food and snacks is Happy Baby .

Hand sanitizer .

Small toys .

Recommended Travel Baby Gear

Baby Carriers - Important so you can be hands free!

Pack ‘n’ Play - Make sure you check this when you get your boarding pass.

Co-Sleeper - We used ours everyday with Scout until she grew out of it. It’s great for your bed and for traveling!

Sound Machine - Help your baby sleep anywhere your travels take you.

Backpack Diaper Bag - Another important piece of baby gear to be hands-free!

Happy baby Scout in her Maxi-Cosi Zelia travel carseat .

Daddy keeping baby Scout entertained on the airplane.

Guide to Navigating the Airport with Your Baby

Getting through tsa with formula, baby food & distilled water.

We all know the rules about no liquids over 3.4 ounces are allowed in your carry-on bag. Baby formula, baby food and distilled water for your infant are some of the rare exceptions to this rule. At TSA they will require you to open up your carry-on bags for an inspection of all the bottles, formula and baby food. But they won’t force you to dump it like they would any other liquids.

When we traveled with Scout we always used the Ready-to-Feed Newborn Bottles (you can use these until they turn one-year-old despite the fact that they call them “newborn bottles”). These pre-mixed disposable formula bottles can be purchased online and are super convenient. They don’t require you to wash and sterilize bottles while traveling and you don’t have to mix any formula powder and water.

***It can be tricky to find these 2 oz bottles in stores, they are often sold out or not available in stores. I highly recommend planning ahead and purchasing a large amount online to bring on your trip.

To make your inspections at TSA run smoothly, keep your formula in clear bags and place it in its own tray to run through the scanner. Be prepared to run the stroller and car seat through the scanner as well.

Online Stores that Sell Ready-to-Feed Formula Bottles:

Walmart (they sell the 24-pack )

CVS Pharmacy

Amazon ( Enfamil 24-Pack )

Air-Travel with a Stroller & Carseat

Traveling with a carseat and a stroller is a non-negotiable with a baby, but it can be logistically tricky with air travel.

Here’s what you need to know:

You can bring both your carseat and stroller onto the plane without paying any checked bag fees. (Double check this with your airline. We didn’t have to pay any extra fees for our stroller and carseat).

You can roll your baby in the stroller as far as down the walkway to the door of the plane. Immediately before we stepped onto the plane, we folded down the stroller and put the carseat and stroller into our travel bags . Before you begin boarding, the airline crew will tag your stroller and carseat travel bags at the counter. The carseat and stroller will be stowed below the plane.

The stroller and carseat will be returned to you immediately after you get off the plane. Make sure to hold on to the ticket stubs they gave you, they’ll need them to locate your carseat and stroller bags.

If you have purchased an extra seat for your infant, then you can bring your carseat onto the plane. Otherwise you will have stow the carseat below the plane with the stroller.

Stroller and carseat travel bags are available to purchase online at Buy Buy Baby. These are basically special luggage to protect your stroller and carseat from getting dirty and damaged while they are stowed away below the plane. We have the Zelia Carseat and Stroller By Maxi-Cosi and we purchased the J.L. Childress carseat travel bag and stroller travel bag .

Our stroller is the type where the carseat is actually the seat for the stroller (known as a “ Travel System ”). If you have a stroller that doesn’t have the click-in carseat, then I suggest checking your carseat instead of having it as a carry-on. You will especially need a carseat travel bag to keep your carseat clean and protected.

Check-in with the Airline Attendants

After you’ve gotten through security and you’re arriving at your gate, check-in with the airline attendants at the desk. They will need to tag your stroller and carseat. We made the mistake of not doing this on one of our flights, and they made us return to the desk to get the tags before we could board the flight.

Checking in with the attendants is also a great time to ask for seats to be rearranged if needed. You can also ask if there’s empty seats on the flight that you can use for your baby.

Take Advantage of Airport Time

When you’re hanging out at the gate waiting to board the flight, make sure to give your baby the chance to move around as much as possible before they’re confined to their seat. They would also probably enjoy a stroller ride around the airport to see some new sights. If your baby is walking, make sure to give them the chance to stand up and stretch their legs.

Early Boarding for Families Traveling with Infants

Make sure you take full advantage of the priority boarding for families traveling with small children. The extra time will really be helpful with folding up the stroller and putting the carseat in their travel bags to be stowed away.

Baby Scout holding her Ready-to-Feed sterilized nipples on the airplane.

Baby Scout holding her Ready-to-Feed formula bottle on the airplane.

In-Flight Guide to Traveling with a Baby

Takeoff with a pacifier, bottle or nursning.

One of the most common reasons that babies get fussy on airplanes is because of pressure in their ears. If you can get your baby to suck on their bottle , pacifier or nursing during takeoff, it can possibly help with getting their ears to pop and alleviating pressure.

Entertaining Baby on the Plane

The best advice I can give for keeping your baby entertained during the flight is to pack some new toys that your baby has never seen before, along with some old favorites. Don’t introduce all the toys all at once, bring them out slowly one-by-one. Depending on how long your flight is, I would recommend brining out a new toy every 45 minutes to keep a steady stream of new entertainment coming.

Scout has always loved having books read to her, so I recommend packing small and soft cloth books for in-flight story time.

If your baby is beginning to eat solids, having puffs and dissolvable snacks is also another great way to keep them busy. Scout loved the Happy Baby Puffs , Teething Wafers and Creamies Fruit Snacks .

I also recommend walking up and down the aisles of the plane with baby when allowed. It gives them a change of scenery and it could even help with putting them down for a nap.

Worrying About Disturbing Other Passengers

I know a lot of parents worry about their baby being really fussy on a plane and disturbing the other passengers. But the reality was that most people were really sweet and accommodating during our travels. We were lucky that Scout didn’t cry hardly at all, and most of that was due to the fact that we came prepared with a fully-stocked diaper bag.

My advice is not to worry about it too much. There’s only so much you can control and worrying about others shouldn’t stop you from traveling.

Diaper Changes Inside the Airplane

First make sure they have a fresh diaper before you board the plane. While in-flight we actually discovered that inside the airplane bathroom they had changing tables for babies (they were discretely located above the toilet). I always bring plastic bags for dirty diapers, and I tie it up to help contain the bad odors and drop it in the trash.

Important Things to Keep In Mind When Traveling with an Infant

For International travel, your baby needs a valid passport. If one parent is leaving the country with the infant without the other parent, you may need to follow special procedures to allow the child to travel (this is to avoid kidnapping).

Waiting in line at TSA security inside SFO airport.

Goofy mommy with baby Scout after a long flight to Oahu, Hawaii.

Mommy’s Guide to Stress-Free Air Travel

It can be difficult to be super hero mommy when you’re not feeling your best. While we are always concerned about our babies, it’s important to come to the airport prepared for yourself as well.

Don’t Travel Hungry - Make sure you eat before your flight, you get your caffeine fix and you’ve packed meals for the adults in your travel party.

My favorite healthy snacks are:

Sahale Nut Snack Packs

RXBAR Nut Butters and Protein Bars

Krave Pure Foods Gourmet Jerky

Wild Friends Nut Butter Travel Packs

Dress Comfortably - Finding that perfect comfortable outfit for flying can make or break your traveling experience. I recommend something with pockets, and to add layers in case the plane is cold. I wore one of my favorite jumpsuits from Lauren Conrad’s Collection for Kohl’s !

Stay Hydrated - Always drink water on the plane. You can actually bring an empty water bottle with you through TSA and many airports have water bottle refill stations. Bkr makes my favorite glass water bottles !

Honest Co. Travel Size Products - You’ll find my bag filled with these little gems including the Organic All-Purpose Balm and the Face + Body Lotion .

Headache Relief - I suffer from migraines and I never travel without a bottle of Excedrin Migraine .

Probiotics & Vitamins - I try to keep up my daily routine of probiotics and vitamins when I travel to keep my system regular and to feel my best.

Backpack Diaper Bags

By Freshly Picked

Zelia 5-in-1 Modular Travel System

By Maxi-Cosi

Ready-to-Feed Formula Bottles

Stroller Carrier and Travel Bag

By J.L. Childress

Car Seat and Booster Carrier Bag

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Live updates, killer la mom who stabbed partner, pushed kids out of car in murder-suicide was reportedly terrified of world ending with the eclipse.

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The killer mom who butchered her boyfriend and pushed her kids out of a moving car before crashing into a tree Monday was a once-prolific astrologer who was terrified of the impending “apocalypse” she believed the eclipse would incite, according to a report.

Danielle Johnson — a popular astrology influencer who went by the name Danielle Ayoka online — warned her 106,000 followers to “wake up” and to “pick a side” in the days before she carried out the twisted murder-suicide that spanned several Los Angeles neighborhoods, law enforcement sources told the Los Angeles Times Wednesday.

“WAKE UP WAKE UP THE APOCALYPSE IS HERE. EVERYONE WHO HAS EARS LISTEN. YOUR TIME TO CHOOSE WHAT YOU BELIEVE IS NOW,” Johnson wrote last week in a tweet that was viewed 600,000 times.

“IF YOU BELIEVE A NEW WORLD IS POSSIBLE FOR THE PEOPLE RT NOW. THERE IS POWER IN CHOICE. THERE IS POWER IN CHOICE!!!! REPOST TO MAKE THE CHOICE FOR THE COLLECTIVE.”

Three days later — hours before the eclipse was expected to occur over California — Johnson murdered two of her loved ones and tried to kill her oldest daughter before killing herself in an early-morning massacre, according to police.

Neither the self-described “divine healer” nor her boyfriend had any documented history of domestic violence or calls to police, leading investigators to suspect that the sprawling bloodbath was influenced by Johnson’s crazed end-of-world paranoia, sources told the LA Times.

Johnson urged her followers to protect themselves from the eclipse, which she dubbed the “epitome of spiritual warfare.”

Johnson — who offered self-help and healing sessions online for just $2.99 — spewed antisemitic posts and conspiracy theories about natural phenomenon on X.

She also likened the New Jersey earthquake to white supremacy and accused the government and media of trying to cover up what she feared was the impending apocalypse.

“THESE ARE ALL THE WAYS THEY HAVE BEEN PROGRAMMING US WITH LIES!!! LOOK AT THESE TO UNDERSTAND THE AGENDA THIS IS REAL THIS IS SPIRITUAL WARFARE,” she wrote.

WAKE UP WAKE UP THE APOCALYPSE IS HERE. EVERYONE WHO HAS EARS LISTEN. YOUR TIME TO CHOOSE WHAT YOU BELIEVE IS NOW. IF YOU BELIEVE A NEW WORLD IS POSSIBLE FOR THE PEOPLE RT NOW. THERE IS POWER IN CHOICE. THERE IS POWER IN CHOICE!!!! REPOST TO MAKE THE CHOICE FOR THE COLLECTIVE pic.twitter.com/NMyuLkBj5l — Ayoka (@MysticxLipstick) April 5, 2024

The healer — who also peddled R&B songs — was once a media darling who was profiled by Refinery 29  and  the Fader , both of which applauded her clairvoyant talents.

In 2016, Refinery 29 said Johnson had “a brilliant gift for calling out the nonsense of any sun sign in need of real truths.”

Johnson was apparently last active on social media Sunday afternoon — roughly 12 hours before police say she stabbed her 29-year-old boyfriend, Jaelen Allen Chaney, in the heart while he was on the couch of their luxury Woodland Hills apartment.

Evidence suggests she tried to drag the body out of the unit, but gave up and left his body in the kitchen, sources told the LA Times.

She then piled her two daughters in her Porsche Cayenne, which she drove through a security gate as she peeled away from the scene.

Around 5 a.m., Johnson threw her 9-year-old daughter out of the car and onto a freeway while the girl clutched her 8-month-old baby sister, authorities said. The older child survived the fall and escaped traffic, but the infant was found dead at the scene.

Johnson’s body was found several miles away at 5:30 a.m. inside a crushed car that had been driven into a tree at speeds topping 100 mph.

It was another two hours before police were called to the apartment where the violence broke out and pieced together the horrifying incident.

Investigators found a trail of bloody footprints leading through the open door of the apartment, which was also littered with black feathers and tarot cards, sources said.

Police initially said Chaney and Johnson were engaged in a verbal altercation when Johnson picked up the knife around 3:40 a.m.

The partial eclipse was visible across California about seven hours later.

It is believed the 9-year-old child — the sole survivor of the horrifying attack — had witnessed her mother slay Chaney.

Johnson killed herself more than 30 miles south of the site of Chaney’s murder.

Investigators are also still working to determine if the baby had died before being thrown from the car.

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An L.A. family horror: Children pushed out of moving car on 405, mother dead, partner fatally stabbed

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The first sign of a tragedy that led investigators on a bizarre trail of violence across Los Angeles County began with an infant and her sister abandoned and injured on the 405 Freeway before sunrise.

Around 4:30 a.m. Monday near the Sepulveda Boulevard/Howard Hughes Parkway exit, officers found an 8-month old girl in the middle of the roadway. She had major injuries and died at the scene. A 9-year-old girl, who had moderate injuries, had made it to the side of the freeway after the pair were pushed out of a moving car, authorities said.

Roughly half an hour later, police in Redondo Beach responded to reports that a black Porsche Cayenne crashed into a tree while driving in excess of 100 mph on Pacific Coast Highway near Vincent Street. The driver, identified by police as Danielle Cherakiyah Johnson, 34, was pronounced dead at the scene.

At first, it wasn’t clear that the two incidents were related.

But about two hours later, police arrived at Johnson’s home, an upscale fourth-floor unit in the Montecito Apartments complex in Woodland Hills, where the full scope of the tragedy came into focus.

A trail of blood led from the complex’s elevator to the apartment. Inside, police found 29-year-old Jaelen Allen Chaney stabbed to death.

Investigators believe Johnson killed her partner inside their home before fleeing, pushed her two small daughters out of the car on the 405 and then deliberately rammed her SUV into the tree in Redondo Beach in an apparent suicide.

An LAPD investigator said the 9-year-old “was holding the infant as she was forced from the vehicle” on the freeway.

The girl witnessed the deadly events and told investigators what had happened, according to a law enforcement source.

After the early-morning stabbing, Johnson got into the car with the children and rammed through the security gate to leave the complex, according to the source, who was not authorized to speak publicly about the matter and requested anonymity.

“You have this poor 9-year-old little girl who has to live with this for the rest of her life,” said Lt. Guy Golan, homicide supervisor for the LAPD Valley Bureau.

Golan said the investigation had been trying even for seasoned detectives. The couple had no documented history of domestic violence or calls to the LAPD. There were no prior indicators of domestic strife, Golan said.

“All we know is there was yelling and then violence,” Golan said. “It does make you wonder, how could this have been prevented?”

Neighbors said they could hear a commotion coming from the couple’s apartment in the middle of the night.

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Jody and Richard Berglund’s 26-year-old daughter awoke around 3:40 a.m. Monday to the sound of a child and woman screaming in the apartment next door. When she left for work hours later, she saw the neighbor’s apartment door wide open. There was blood on the floor of the hallway and blood streaked in the elevator.

She was so shocked that she did not go right back to her family’s apartment but took the elevator downstairs, got in her car and called her parents. “You gotta go check. Something bad has happened here,” she told her father on the phone.

Berglund, 61, looked into the neighboring unit. Inside, he said, he saw legs sticking out from the kitchen — and blood everywhere.

“The apartment was in disarray. Everything was knocked over,” he told The Times on Tuesday.

He called 911 , and paramedics told him to check on the man. He stepped over the puddles of blood to walk into the kitchen and found his neighbor face down, wearing only socks and underwear. He was dead, Berglund said.

The Berglunds described the family who lived in the apartment as “very private people.” They saw the neighbors only occasionally, such as when Chaney took the 9-year-old to school. She was always well dressed and didn’t have any signs of visible abuse, Berglund said.

“We’re all pretty shook up. You don’t expect that next door,” said Jody Berglund.

A law enforcement source told The Times that Chaney and Johnson lived together for more than three years but were not married. Chaney served in the Air Force as recently as 2020, according to the source.

National Archives and Records Administration photographs indicate that Chaney served as an armament technician in the 31st Munitions Squadron and was stationed in Italy for a period during his service.

Raul Macariegos, 37, who lives on the first floor of the apartment complex, said he knew the family who lived in the unit. Macariegos’ daughter often played with the couple’s older daughter by the pool, he said. The parents were quiet — the type who say hello in passing, but don’t stop to strike up a conversation, he said.

The whole situation was shocking, he said, but he struggled to fathom why the girls were left on the side of the freeway.

“I don’t see how anyone could do that,” Macariegos said.

Times staff writers Jack Dolan and Caroline Petrow-Cohen contributed to this report.

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Hannah Fry covers breaking news for the Los Angeles Times. She most recently covered Orange County for The Times and has written extensively about criminal trials, housing, politics and government. In 2020, Fry was part of the team that was a Pulitzer finalist for its coverage of a boat fire that killed 34 people off the coast of Santa Barbara. Fry came to The Times from the Daily Pilot, where she covered coastal cities, education and crime. An Orange County native, Fry started her career as an intern at the Orange County Register.

Richard Winton is an investigative crime writer for the Los Angeles Times and part of the team that won the Pulitzer Prize for public service in 2011. Known as @lacrimes on Twitter, during almost 30 years at The Times he also has been part of the breaking news staff that won Pulitzers in 1998, 2004 and 2016.

Noah Goldberg covers breaking news for the Los Angeles Times. He worked previously in New York City as the Brooklyn courts reporter for the New York Daily News, covering major criminal trials as well as working on enterprise stories. Before that, he was the criminal justice reporter for the Brooklyn Eagle.

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L.A. woman killed partner, possibly threw kids from a moving SUV before crashing it, police say

A Los Angeles woman fatally stabbed her partner and possibly threw her two children from a moving SUV on the freeway before she fatally crashed into a tree Monday morning, authorities said.

An 8-month-old girl died and her 9-year-old sister was injured in the violence, which began around 3:40 a.m., Los Angeles police said Tuesday.

The children’s mother, Danielle Johnson, 34, got in an argument with a man whom she lived with, Jaelen Chaney, and stabbed him with a knife, police said.

Johnson then took her two children in a Porsche SUV, and at 4:30 a.m. that car was seen driving on Interstate 405 "when the two children were expelled from the vehicle while it was moving,” police said in a statement .

Investigators believe the children fell or were thrown out of the moving vehicle, the California Highway Patrol said. The infant died, and the 9-year-old was taken to a hospital with what police said were moderate injuries.

Johnson then sped into a tree in Redondo Beach, a coastal city in the Los Angeles region, at more than 100 mph, police said. She did not survive the crash, which occurred around 5 a.m.

Investigators later found Chaney, 29, dead in the Woodland Hills home where they lived with Johnson's children, police said. The deadly incidents were later connected and determined to be a double murder and a suicide, police said.

“We really don’t know why this incident escalated to such violence,” Police Lt. Guy Golan said, according to NBC Los Angeles .

The highway patrol said it was broadcast a medical emergency at 4:29 a.m. about the injured children on the freeway, and authorities found the infant with major injuries. The Culver City Fire Department pronounced her dead at 4:44 a.m., the highway patrol said.

Redondo Beach is around 30 miles south of Woodland Hills, which is in the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles. The 405 Freeway is the main artery linking the western part of the valley to the Los Angeles basin.

The surviving child is in the care of Child Protective Services, NBC Los Angeles reported.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or chat live at  988lifeline.org . You can also visit  SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources  for additional support.

Phil Helsel is a reporter for NBC News.

Baby found dead on highway linked to family's murder-suicide, police say

The death of a baby found Monday on a highway has been linked to a possible murder-suicide in Los Angeles, police told ABC News.

Early Monday morning, the body of an 8-month-old girl was found on the 405 Freeway. A 9-year-old girl was found on the shoulder, alive but with moderate injuries, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.

Shortly after, a woman -- who police identified as the children's mother -- crashed her car into a tree in Redondo Beach. She was pronounced dead at the scene, police said. Police identified her on Tuesday afternoon as Danielle Johnson, 34.

Authorities on Monday found the father dead from apparent stab wounds in an apartment in Woodland Hills. He was identified by police on Tuesday as Jaelen Chaney, 29.

Police said Tuesday that during the early hours of Monday morning, the two "became involved in a verbal altercation that escalated into Johnson becoming violent, stabbing Chaney, who succumbed to his injuries at scene."

A knife with biological evidence was recovered at the scene.

The mother is also suspected of leaving the two children on the highway and then crashing into a tree.

The two children were "expelled" from the car while it was moving, police said. It is not yet clear whether the baby was already dead or died later on the highway.

The 9-year-old girl, who is believed to be a witness to the murder, was hospitalized for her injuries and is now in safe custody, police said.

Neighbors told Los Angeles ABC station KABC they heard an argument coming from the apartment the night before and saw blood in the area the next morning.

"Their door was wide open, there was blood on the floor leading into their apartment, and then a trail of it in the hallway leading up to the elevator and I saw some blood on the wall," a 26-year-old woman told KABC.

The woman's father called 911, she said, who told them to check inside the apartment, where they found the man dead.

"He was deceased, he was facedown on the floor," she said. "And there was a lot of blood."

ABC News' Alex Stone contributed to this report.

Mother charged in death of baby left in car seat for 13 hours, prosecutors say

LAWRENCEBURG, Ind. (WXIX/Gray News) - An Indiana mother is facing charges, including reckless homicide, after the death of her 9-day-old son.

Raeleigh Phillips, 22, is facing charges in connection to the death of her son, Emmett Phillips. Prosecutors say police and EMS found the baby unresponsive March 3 in a Lawrenceburg apartment. They say his cause of death was positional asphyxia, which means the child was in a position where he could not adequately breathe.

Court documents say Phillips left her son in his car seat for at least 13 hours. WXIX reports she told police she went to a friend’s house. When she arrived home, the baby was sleeping in the car seat, so she took him inside and let him sleep in the seat while she napped.

After her nap, Phillips says she tried to wake Emmett, but he was cold and not breathing. She called 911.

Police say the baby had not been fed in about 14 hours and was wearing a soiled diaper. Court records say he was taken to the hospital, where it was determined he had been dead for an extended period.

Bryn Beam is a resident of the apartment complex who also does work around the buildings. He says he was upset by the news of Emmett’s death.

“I’m a big kid person,” Beam said. “I love kids, and it kind of tore me up. It really broke my heart. I’ve seen a lot of stuff here over the years, but we’ve never had anything like this here.”

Phillips is in jail on a $200,000 bond. She’s facing charges of reckless homicide and neglect of a dependent. She was convicted of the latter charge in a different case in 2022.

Copyright 2024 WXIX via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

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