Summer Travel with a Baby or Toddler: A Practical Packing & Safety Guide

Written by Leena Tabaja. Customer Service Coordinator & proud mom of two.

For many Canadian families, summer means loading up the car and heading off on an adventure. Whether you're escaping to the cottage or lakeside resort, camping under the stars, enjoying a family staycation, or visiting loved ones, summer is all about making memories together.

Traveling with a baby or toddler, however, takes a little extra planning. From keeping feeding routines on track to preparing for long drives, warm weather, and days by the water, a little preparation can help everyone enjoy the journey.

Before You Leave

The key is to plan ahead for a smoother trip. Packing ahead of time can help make sure nothing important is forgotten, and using a Packing Checklist can make the process even easier. Before you zip up your suitcase, check with your accommodations to see what essentials are already available for you and your little one. Many hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals may provide items like hair dryers, toiletries, cribs, kettles, or even high chairs, helping you pack more efficiently and travel with a little more peace of mind.

Finally, don't forget to pack a separate bag just for the drive. Having your essentials close at hand can make all the difference along the way.

On the Road: Make the Drive More Comfortable

Packing a dedicated "road trip bag" with your baby's essentials can help keep everything organized and accessible. If you're not sure what to include, our Baby & Toddler On-the-Road Checklist is a great place to start.

Consider packing extra diapers and wipes, a change of clothes, burp cloths, feeding supplies, and any formula you'll need for the drive. Keep the bag somewhere a passenger can easily access, or where you can reach it safely during planned stops. For toddlers, plan ahead with activities and snacks that will help keep them happy until your next stop.

A helpful tip is to introduce toys and activities one at a time throughout the trip rather than giving them all at once. Since toddlers can lose interest quickly, rotating through a few different options can make each item feel new and exciting, helping keep them engaged for longer without overwhelming them.

If your little one is potty training, a travel potty can also be a game-changer for longer drives. Having one on hand can make unexpected stops easier and give toddlers a familiar option when a restroom isn’t nearby.

Another helpful tip is to plan your departure time around your little one’s naps, if possible. . A well-timed departure can help them sleep through part of the drive, making the journey more peaceful for everyone. While every child’s routine is different, working with their usual sleep patterns can make longer trips feel a little more manageable.

Feeding on the Go

If your baby is formula-fed, planning ahead can also make feeding while travelling a little easier. Pack enough formula and feeding supplies for the journey, with a little extra for unexpected delays. Formula dispensing cups can also be very helpful on the go, making it easier to portion out formula when you’re away from home.  Keep bottles and feeding supplies clean and organized and always prepare infant formula according to the instructions on the product label.

If you’re staying somewhere new, it can also be helpful to check ahead for access to safe water and a suitable space for preparing feeds, and keep in mind any accessories you may need to prepare them. You may want to bring along a bottle warmer or a kettle to boil & sterilize water, if your accommodation doesn’t provide one.

Cottage or Lake? Some extra's to remember 

If your summer plans include time at the cottage or the lake, there are some extra items to think about before arriving at your getaway. Along with your everyday baby essentials, consider what you’ll need for time spent in and around the water, outdoor play, and relaxing evenings together. A Cottage & Lakeside checklist can be helpful to make sure you don’t forget those extra items that may not be part of your everyday routine.

For water days, remember essentials like swim diapers, towels, water shoes, water-resistant sunscreen, and properly fitted life jackets or personal flotation devices when appropriate. For outdoor fun and downtime, bring along a few favourite toys or activities like balls, books, bubbles, or outdoor games to keep little ones entertained between adventures. If your plans include exploring nature trails or family hikes, a baby carrier can make it easier to bring younger children along comfortably.

Even though it’s summer, evenings by the lake can still be windy, so packing sweaters or light layers for the whole family is always a good idea. Sun protection, bug protection and a basic first aid kit are also cottage essentials that can help you feel prepared for whatever adventure the day brings.

Sun + Water Safety

Spending time outdoors is one of the best parts of summer, but babies and toddlers require extra care when it comes to sun exposure and water activities. Keep these tips in mind to help protect your little one during warm-weather adventures.

Make Memories

Summer adventures with little ones are filled with moments you’ll remember for years to come. First splashes in the lake, first time on a boat, tiny footsteps exploring somewhere new, and the simple joy of spending uninterrupted time together.

With a little preparation, you can spend less time worrying about the details and more time soaking in these special moments. Wherever summer takes your family, packing what helps you feel prepared and leaving a little room for the unexpected can make the journey feel a little easier.

    Leena Tabaja 
     Customer Service Coordinator
     & proud mom of two