If you are going anywhere with your baby, you will need a baby traveling checklist. It will save you mountains of stress!

If you enjoyed traveling before you had a baby, the level of planning for the recent addition will be a rude awakening. When you are traveling with a baby, you’re playing in a completely different league. If you were kind of haphazard about your planning before, you’ve got to step it all the way up now because when babies need things, there is no explaining to your baby that you forgot it.

The best way to pack is to have a baby travel checklist (free printables below). Otherwise, you’re going to be overwhelmed and forget important things.

Important things you need to be aware of

• The baby travel checklist is huge. That’s because babies need a lot of things. However, also understand that you have limitations—you won’t be able to carry everything. As you pack, think realistically about what you can manage. Remember, you’ll also have a baby to carry or push.
• While the baby travel checklist is important, only pack the things that apply to your baby. For example, if you are breastfeeding, you obviously don’t need to pack formula and bottles.
• Rules vary from airline to airline. Take careful note of your airline’s check baggage guidelines. Before you pack, call the airline or check online to see what their luggage size and weight limitations are.
• When you are packing your carry-on, remember the TSA 3-1-1 rule.
  3-ounce maximum container limit for liquids, aerosols, and gels.
  1 quart-sized zip-lock bag where all of your containers must fit in.
  1 quart-sized zip-lock bag per passenger.

TSA rules about baby food and milk

• Pack as much baby food, formula, or breast milk as your baby needs. The 3-ounce container rule does not apply to baby foods. However, TSA is encouraging parents to only bring as much bottled breast milk or formula as their baby will need for the flight.
• To make your life easier while traveling with a baby, separate your baby’s food and milk from other items. Once you get to the checkpoint, let the officers know that it’s baby milk and food, and present it for additional inspection.
• Even if you are traveling without your baby, moms may take breast milk through security.