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10 Best Travel Essentials for Babies and Kids in Australia (2026)
Updated October 2026
By Nadean Richards, CEO of One Fine Baby
Remember when going on holiday meant throwing a few outfits into a suitcase and heading out the door? Then you had kids.
Suddenly, packing for a weekend away involves more planning than your last overseas trip, and somehow the smallest member of the family needs the most luggage. There are nappies to pack, snacks to organise, sleep routines to think about and the small matter of keeping a toddler entertained for several hours in a confined space.
But here's the good news: travelling with babies and kids doesn't have to mean taking your entire house with you.
The right baby travel essentials can make a huge difference, whether you're flying interstate with a newborn, heading overseas with a toddler or packing the car for your first family road trip. Think clever travel cots that are easy to set up, portable feeding solutions, comfortable baby carriers and compact activities that might actually keep little hands busy long enough for you to finish a coffee.
At One Fine Baby, we've spent years discovering clever baby products, working with more than 200 exhibiting brands and drawing on feedback from over 38,000 Australian parents at our baby expos in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. And if there's one thing we know, it's that parents appreciate anything that makes getting out of the house a little easier.
So, we've rounded up 10 of the best travel essentials for babies and kids in Australia for 2026. These are the products worth making room for in your suitcase, whether you're planning a long-haul flight, a beach holiday or a few nights away with the grandparents.
Because travelling with kids might never be quite as relaxing as it used to be, but it can still be a whole lot of fun.
What are the must-have travel essentials for babies and toddlers?
The best things to pack when travelling with kids depend on their age, your destination and how you're getting there. But whether you're flying or driving, a few essentials tend to make every family holiday easier.
Here's a quick checklist to help you get started.
Baby and toddler travel packing checklist
Nappies and changing: Plenty of nappies, wipes, a portable change mat, nappy bags and at least one spare outfit in your carry-on.
Feeding essentials: Bottles, formula or expressed milk if needed, bibs, a spill-proof drink bottle, snacks and age-appropriate feeding accessories.
Sleep essentials: A suitable travel cot where needed, fitted sheets, a familiar sleeping bag and any safe, age-appropriate sleep essentials.
Getting around: A lightweight travel pram, comfortable baby carrier and an appropriate child car restraint for your destination.
Entertainment: A few favourite books, small toys, reusable stickers or mess-free activities for flights and long drives.
Health and hygiene: Any regular medication, a basic first-aid kit, sunscreen, hats and hand-cleaning essentials.
Travel documents: Passports for international trips, booking details, travel insurance information and any required medical documents.
Our tip? Keep anything you'll need during the journey in your nappy bag or carry-on, rather than buried at the bottom of your checked suitcase. Because discovering you've packed every spare nappy in your checked luggage halfway through a flight is not the holiday memory anyone wants.
What to look for when buying baby travel essentials
Not every clever baby gadget deserves precious suitcase space. Before adding something to your packing list, think about how often you'll use it, how easy it is to carry and whether it will genuinely make travelling easier.
1. Lightweight and compact designs
When you're already carrying luggage, a baby and approximately 14 snacks, every kilogram counts. Look for travel products that fold flat, pack into their own carry bags or take up minimal space. If you're flying, check your airline's baggage allowances before assuming something can come into the cabin.
2. Products that do more than one job
The best travel essentials often earn their place by being useful in several situations. A baby carrier might help you navigate airport queues, explore a new city and manage outings where a pram isn't practical. A well-organised nappy bag can double as your everyday backpack once you arrive.
3. Easy setup and cleaning
A travel cot that takes half an hour to assemble isn't particularly helpful when you've arrived at your accommodation with an overtired baby. The same goes for feeding accessories with lots of fiddly parts. Choose products that are straightforward to use, easy to clean and practical when you're away from home.
4. Age-appropriate comfort and safety
Always check the manufacturer's age, weight and developmental guidelines before buying. For travel cots, look for compliance with current Australian safety requirements and use only the supplied, approved mattress. For baby carriers, check the fit and positioning instructions. And remember that a portable feeding booster is not a substitute for an approved child car seat.
5. Something you'll use beyond the holiday
If you're investing in travel gear, it's worth choosing products that will be useful for weekend visits, days out or everyday life at home. The more often you use something, the easier it is to justify making room for it.
Flying with a baby? A few things to know before you go
If your family holiday involves a flight, it's worth checking a few things before you leave for the airport.
Prams and strollers: Some compact travel prams are designed to fit aircraft overhead lockers, but airline size limits vary. Others will need to be checked in, and gate-checking isn't available on every flight. Check your airline's rules before travelling.
Milk, formula and baby food: Australian airport security has provisions for baby feeding essentials, but the rules differ depending on whether you're flying domestically or internationally. Check the requirements for your departure airport, airline and any connecting flights.
Carry-on essentials: Pack enough nappies, wipes, feeding supplies, spare clothes and entertainment for the flight, plus a little extra in case of delays.
Baby carriers: A carrier can be particularly useful when moving through the airport, but you may need to remove your baby during security screening.
Sleep and comfort: If you're travelling with a young baby, ask your airline about bassinets before you fly. Availability, age limits and weight restrictions vary, particularly on international flights.
And our biggest tip? Give yourself more time than you think you'll need. Everything takes a little longer with kids, and a less rushed start can make the whole journey feel easier.
The 10 best travel essentials for babies and kids in Australia for 2026
Price: $339
If there's one thing you don't want when travelling with kids, it's having to unpack your entire bag to find a dummy, a snack or that emergency spare outfit. Enter Tottie's Nappy Bag Backpack, a seriously clever travel companion that makes packing for little ones feel a whole lot more manageable. With 14 thoughtfully designed pockets, a roomy 20L capacity and a dedicated compartment for wet or dirty clothes, it's practically made for navigating airports, long-haul flights and family adventures. And unlike your average nappy bag, this one looks more like a beautiful everyday backpack than something filled with nappies and baby wipes.
Why it's different
It's the little details that make this backpack especially good for travelling. There's a built-in luggage sleeve that slides over your suitcase handle, two insulated bottle pockets, a padded laptop compartment and a separate bottom section for keeping messy clothes away from everything else. The wide-opening main compartment makes finding things easier when you're juggling a baby, while the water-resistant exterior and wipe-clean interior are particularly handy for inevitable travel spills. It also comes with matching pram clips and a portable change mat.
Why try it
Because travelling with kids is easier when everything has its place! Whether you're using it as your in-flight baby bag, packing for a weekend away or heading out sightseeing, Tottie keeps the essentials within easy reach without sacrificing style. The padded backpack straps leave your hands free for pushing a pram or holding little hands, and the generous storage means you can carry your own essentials alongside everything your baby needs. Better still, it's designed to keep working as an everyday or travel backpack long after the nappy years are over.
Key features
- Generous 20L capacity with 14 organisational pockets
- Built-in luggage sleeve for attaching to a suitcase handle
- Separate bottom compartment for wet or dirty clothes
- Two insulated baby bottle pockets
- Padded laptop sleeve fitting most 14-inch devices
- Wide-opening main compartment for easy access
- Water-resistant exterior and wipe-clean interior
- Adjustable padded backpack straps
- Includes matching pram clips and a portable change mat
- Made from premium vegan leather
- Available in a range of colours
Price: $85
Travelling with little ones means you never quite know what you're going to find when you arrive, especially when it comes to somewhere for your baby to sit! That's why we love the IZIMINI Baby Chair V2. This clever little travel chair folds down into its own carry bag, weighs just 1.8kg and gives your baby a familiar place to sit, play or enjoy a snack wherever your adventures take you. From holiday rentals and camping grounds to beach picnics and visits to the grandparents, it's one of those things you'll be glad you packed.
Why it's different
Unlike a traditional portable highchair, the IZIMINI works as a freestanding travel chair, so you don't need a dining table or an existing chair to make it useful. It comes with a removable tray, a built-in harness and an auto-locking mechanism, plus straps that allow it to double as a booster seat when secured to a suitable dining chair. And because travelling with kids inevitably involves spills, the seat cover is machine washable and the tray is dishwasher safe.
Why try it
Because finding a suitable highchair when you're away from home can be surprisingly tricky! The IZIMINI gives your little one their own seat wherever you're staying, without having to lug a bulky highchair around. It's quick to set up, easy to pack away and compact enough to bring along on road trips and family holidays. Plus, the colourful prints are pretty adorable.
Key features
- Suitable for babies approximately 6 months to 3 years, up to 15kg
- Lightweight design at just 1.8kg
- Folds into a matching carry bag for easy travelling
- Freestanding chair for use on suitable level surfaces
- Removable, dishwasher-safe feeding tray
- Built-in safety harness and auto-locking mechanism
- Can be used as a booster seat with the supplied securing straps, following manufacturer instructions
- Removable, machine-washable seat cover
- Handy storage pocket
- Available in a range of colourful prints
Price: $499
If you've ever arrived at your holiday accommodation with an overtired baby, you'll know that the last thing you want to do is spend 20 minutes wrestling with a travel cot. That's where the Bugaboo Stardust Plus comes in. This clever pop-up portacot unfolds in just one second, giving your little one a familiar place to sleep without the complicated setup. It's compact, comes with its own travel bag and even folds away with the mattress inside. Whether you're spending a weekend at the grandparents' or heading off on your first family holiday, it's one less thing to worry about.
Why it's different
The Stardust Plus takes the fuss out of travelling with a baby thanks to its clever one-piece design. Unlike traditional portacots that require multiple steps to assemble, it simply pops open and is ready to use. There's also a zip-in bassinet that brings newborns closer to you, so you're not constantly bending down to the bottom of the cot during those early months. All-around mesh panels provide ventilation, while the included mattress folds neatly with the frame, making packing up just as straightforward as setting up.
Why try it
Because getting your baby settled somewhere new can be challenging enough without adding complicated baby gear to the mix! The Stardust Plus is particularly handy for road trips, holiday rentals and overnight visits, where having your own portable sleep space can make life much easier. At 7.58kg, it's manageable to transport in the car, and its slim folded design makes storing it between trips a breeze. Plus, it's suitable from birth, so you can start using it on those very first family adventures.
Key features
- Suitable from birth to approximately 2 years, subject to size and weight limits
- Unfolds in just one second
- One-piece design that folds with the mattress inside
- Zip-in newborn bassinet with a 9kg weight limit
- Main cot suitable up to 15kg
- Weighs 7.58kg
- Folded dimensions: 64 × 14 × 86cm
- All-around mesh panels for ventilation
- Stability feet and bassinet buckle for added security
- Includes mattress and travel carry bag
- Mattress can be washed separately according to care instructions
- Available in Desert Taupe and Black
Price: $249
Anyone who's travelled with kids knows the moment. You're halfway through the airport, your child announces their legs are tired, and suddenly you're carrying their suitcase along with everything else. Enter the Karion Kids Scootcase, a seriously clever two-in-one suitcase and scooter that makes getting from A to B part of the holiday fun. Kids can scoot along with their luggage, then detach the scooter when they reach their destination. And with a generous 50L capacity, there's plenty of room for holiday outfits, favourite toys and all those things they simply can't leave home without.
What Makes It Different?
Unlike a traditional kids' suitcase, the Karion Scootcase transforms into a detachable scooter with a simple click, giving little travellers something fun to ride as well as somewhere to store their belongings. Its EasyClick mechanism is designed for small hands, while the adjustable handlebar grows with your child. The hard-shell suitcase is built to withstand the bumps of family travel, and the scooter can be used independently once you've arrived at your hotel or resort.
Why Try It?
Because anything that makes travelling with kids a little easier deserves a spot on the packing list! The Scootcase encourages older children to take responsibility for their own luggage, while turning those long walks through airports and holiday resorts into something they'll actually look forward to. And when scooting isn't practical, it can be pulled along like a regular suitcase. Just check your airline's cabin baggage restrictions before flying, as its dimensions won't meet every airline's carry-on limits.
Key features
- Two-in-one kids' suitcase and detachable scooter
- Suitable for children aged 4 years and over
- Maximum rider weight of 50kg
- Generous 50L luggage capacity
- EasyClick mechanism for quick scooter attachment and removal
- Adjustable handlebar with three height settings
- Combined weight of 4.64kg
- Dimensions: 59 × 35.8 × 30cm
- Durable hard-shell suitcase
- Available in Khaki, Sand and Pink
- Free standard shipping within Australia
Real Customer Reviews
“We used these for our 2 kids (4 and 7) on a recent trip and it was a game changer, no more whinging about walking or asking to be carried! Our plane got delayed and they just entertained themselves scootering all around the airport! We had no issues taking it on board, the flight attendants were even talking about how great they were. We took the suitcases off and they used them all over our resort too! Us adults had a turn too and they were fine with our weight. But the suitcase, you won’t regret it!” - Millie
“Traveling with three young farm boys solo, I thought I needed some sort of 'assistance' getting boys and bags around the airport and city. The Scootcase came up in a Google search and I can't put into words how fabulous these were. The boys found them fun, so instead of refusing to take their own bags they jumped at the opportunity to use their scooters. It made getting through airports a breeze and once at our destination just as handy.” - Aimee
Exclusive offer for One Fine Baby audience:
Use code ‘ONEFINESCOOTCASE’ for 10% off when you visit the Karion Kids website.
Price: From $599
If there's one baby item that can make travelling feel a whole lot easier, it's a pram that doesn't take up half your luggage allowance. And the Stokke YOYO³ has become a favourite among travelling parents for good reason. Lightweight, compact and designed to fold down to cabin-friendly dimensions, this clever little stroller is made for families who love getting out and exploring. Whether you're navigating a busy airport, squeezing into a taxi or wandering through the streets of a new city, the YOYO³ makes bringing a pram along feel surprisingly manageable.
Why it's different
The YOYO³ is all about making travel simpler. Its compact fold measures just 52 × 44 × 18cm, making it suitable for cabin baggage on many airlines, subject to their individual restrictions. It's also designed to be carried over your shoulder, leaving your hands free for luggage and little ones. The modular design means you can use it from birth with a compatible newborn pack or shell, then switch to the 6+ colour pack as your baby grows. And with a sturdy frame, updated suspension and an extendable canopy, it's designed for more than just getting through the airport.
Why try it
Because a travel pram should make holidays easier, not give you another bulky thing to carry! The YOYO³ is particularly handy for families who fly regularly, thanks to its compact size and easy fold. Once you arrive, it's just as useful for sightseeing, hopping on public transport and navigating crowded restaurants or narrow footpaths. Plus, with a range of colour packs and accessories available, it's a pram you can adapt as your family grows.
Key features
- Compact folded dimensions of 52 × 44 × 18cm
- Weighs approximately 6.5kg with the 6+ colour pack
- Suitable from 6 months with the standard 6+ seat, up to 22kg
- Suitable from birth with a compatible newborn pack or shell, sold separately
- Cabin-friendly dimensions for many airlines, subject to baggage restrictions
- Folds into a compact, portable package
- Shoulder strap for easier carrying
- Extendable canopy with peek-a-boo window
- Updated suspension for smoother everyday strolling
- Customisable frame and colour pack combinations
- Available with a range of travel accessories
Price: $119.95
If you've ever attempted a long-haul flight with a toddler who desperately needs a nap but can't quite get comfortable, you'll understand why parents love the idea of Plane Pal. This clever self-inflating travel pillow fills the gap between your child's seat and the seat in front, giving little legs somewhere to stretch out and making it easier to settle in for a rest. And the best part? The new version inflates in around 30 seconds at the touch of a button, so there's no need to pack a separate pump or spend half the flight blowing it up yourself.
Why it's different
Unlike traditional inflatable airplane footrests, the Plane Pal Self-Inflating Pillow has a built-in rechargeable pump, making setup much quicker and easier. Simply position it in the footwell, press the button and adjust the inflation to suit the seat height. It's designed to fit standard and premium economy seating, with a clever shape that can also be positioned lengthways in bulkhead rows where permitted. There's even a pressure-release valve to prevent over-inflation, and the whole thing packs into its own drawstring backpack.
Why try it
Because a comfortable child can make a very long flight feel a little more manageable! Plane Pal gives kids extra leg support while they're sitting or resting, without requiring a bulky travel accessory. It's especially handy for overnight flights, when you're hoping everyone might get a little sleep before landing. Just remember to check your airline's rules before flying, as some airlines restrict inflatable footrests or battery-powered pumps. Qantas and Jetstar currently permit Plane Pal with manual inflation only.
Key features
- Self-inflating travel pillow with built-in rechargeable pump
- Inflates in approximately 30 seconds
- Designed to support children's legs and feet during flights
- Adjustable height and firmness to suit different aircraft seats
- Rechargeable pump provides more than 50 inflations per charge
- Weighs approximately 1kg
- Made from durable, wipe-clean nylon
- Built-in air-pressure safety release valve
- Removable pump with USB charging cable
- Includes a drawstring travel backpack
- Designed for use on many airlines, subject to individual policies
- Must be packed away during take-off and landing, with the child's seatbelt remaining fastened
Price: $139.95
You can pack your baby's favourite sleeping bag, stick to their usual bedtime routine and bring every comfort from home, but there's one thing you can't always plan for on holiday: the curtains. Some hotel rooms seem to let in every last bit of daylight, which isn't exactly ideal when you're trying to convince a baby that 6pm is bedtime. SnoozeShade for Portacots is a clever little solution, slipping over your travel cot to create a darker, more familiar sleep environment without having to tape bin bags to the windows. It blocks 94% of light and packs away neatly when it's time to move on to your next destination.
Why it's different
Rather than trying to black out an entire room, SnoozeShade focuses on the space your baby actually sleeps in. Made from specially designed air-permeable mesh, it fits over a compatible portacot using adjustable straps, with two windows that can be opened or covered depending on how much light you want to let in. A zippered top panel makes it easier to check on your little one, and the whole cover weighs just 1.1kg, so it won't take up too much precious luggage space.
Why try it
One of the trickiest parts of travelling with young children is working around their sleep schedule, particularly when everyone's sharing a room. SnoozeShade gives you a little more flexibility with your accommodation, whether you're staying somewhere with bright windows or trying to manage daytime naps. It's also machine washable, which is always a bonus when travelling with kids. Just make sure your portacot is compatible, keep the room well ventilated and follow safe-sleep guidance.
Key features
- Blocks 94% of incoming light, according to the manufacturer
- Made from air-permeable mesh fabric
- Suitable from birth according to the manufacturer, subject to safe-sleep guidance
- Fits many rectangular and triangular-style travel cots
- Weighs just 1.1kg
- Packs into an included storage bag
- Two mesh windows with adjustable blackout flaps
- Zippered top panel for easier access and checking
- Adjustable straps for securing to compatible portacots
- Machine washable at 30°C
- Designed for hotel stays, camping trips and shared holiday accommodation
Price: $249
There are plenty of places you'll visit on holiday where bringing a pram just isn't practical. Think cobblestone streets, crowded markets, endless airport queues or that beautiful little beach you can only reach by walking down approximately a million stairs. That's when a good baby carrier really earns its place in your suitcase. The Redsbaby CONNECT Plus is designed to keep your little one close while leaving your hands free for luggage, passports and everything else that comes with travelling as a family. And with four carrying positions and a design that adapts from newborn to toddler, it's a travel essential you'll use well beyond your first holiday together.
Why it's different
The CONNECT Plus has a clever three-layer design that makes it particularly handy for travelling between different climates. There's breathable mesh for warmer days, a removable thermal layer when temperatures drop and a retractable windbreaker for extra protection. It also features an extendable SmartShade for shade and privacy, plus adjustable leg positions and padded lumbar support to help keep both you and your baby comfortable. It's approved by Healthy Hips Australia, too.
Why try it
Because sometimes the easiest way to explore somewhere new is to leave the pram behind! Whether you're boarding a plane, navigating public transport or heading out for a day of sightseeing, the CONNECT Plus gives you the flexibility to move around without pushing a stroller. The adjustable waist belt and removable shoulder padding are particularly welcome when you're carrying your baby for longer stretches, while the built-in storage pockets give you somewhere handy to stash your phone, keys or travel essentials.
Key features
- Suitable from newborn (3.2kg) to toddler (20kg), approximately 3 years
- Four ergonomic carrying positions, including front and back carrying
- Three-layer design with breathable mesh, thermal layer and retractable windbreaker
- Approved by Healthy Hips Australia
- Adjustable leg positions to accommodate growing babies
- Padded lumbar support and adjustable waist belt
- Removable shoulder padding for extra comfort
- Extendable SmartShade for head support, shade and privacy
- CONNECT Pockets for keeping your hands close to your baby
- Waistband storage pockets for small essentials
- Weighs approximately 1kg
- Includes thermal layer, removable shoulder padding and carry bag
- Designed in Australia
Price: $195
Travelling with a bottle-fed baby involves a surprising amount of planning. Where will you warm their milk? What happens when their dummy lands on the airport floor? And how much feeding equipment can you realistically squeeze into one nappy bag? The Jiffi DUO is designed to make life on the move a little simpler, combining a portable bottle warmer with a UV sterilising pod in one handy travel set. Whether you're spending a weekend away or heading overseas, it's a clever way to keep two feeding essentials together without packing half the kitchen.
Why it's different
Rather than buying a bottle warmer and portable steriliser separately, the Jiffi DUO brings both together in one convenient package. The rechargeable warmer is designed to heat milk directly in compatible baby bottles, while the separate UV pod offers a portable way to sanitise suitable small feeding accessories, such as dummies and bottle teats. It's an especially practical combination for parents who regularly feed their baby while travelling.
Why try it
Because finding a kettle or somewhere suitable to clean feeding accessories isn't always easy when you're out exploring! The Jiffi DUO gives parents a little more flexibility around feeding time, whether that's warming a bottle during a road trip or dealing with a dropped dummy while waiting for a flight. The portable design also makes it useful beyond holidays, from everyday outings to visits with family.
Key features
- Two-piece travel set combining a portable bottle warmer and UV sterilising pod
- Rechargeable bottle warmer for use away from power points
- Designed to warm milk directly in compatible baby bottles
- Portable UV pod for suitable dummies, teats and small accessories
- Compact design for packing in a nappy bag or travel luggage
- Useful for flights, road trips and holiday accommodation
- Can also be used for everyday outings and feeding away from home
Price: $49.95
There's a certain point on every long journey when you've exhausted the snacks, read the same book six times and your toddler starts asking, "Are we there yet?" That's when you'll be very glad you packed a Give Me a Moment Bag. These thoughtfully curated activity bags are filled with creative, educational activities to keep little hands busy and curious minds occupied. With options for different age groups, they're a brilliant addition to your carry-on luggage, especially when you'd rather not hand over the iPad five minutes after take-off.
Why it's different
Rather than spending hours shopping for individual activities and putting together your own travel entertainment kit, Give Me a Moment Bag does the hard work for you. Each bag contains a curated selection of craft and learning activities designed to encourage imaginative play. There are three age-specific options for children aged 2–3, 3–5 and 5+, so you can choose something suited to your child's stage and interests.
Why try it
Because a little novelty can go a long way when you're travelling with kids! Keeping a bag of unfamiliar activities tucked away until you're on the plane or halfway through a road trip can help make those long stretches of sitting still more manageable. It's also handy for rainy afternoons at your holiday accommodation, restaurant visits or those moments when the grown-ups would really love to finish a conversation.
Key features
- Curated activity and craft bags for children
- Three age groups: 2–3 years, 3–5 years and 5+ years
- Includes a selection of creative and educational activities
- Encourages imaginative play and screen-free entertainment
- Handy for flights, road trips and holiday downtime
- Saves parents time sourcing individual travel activities
- Australian business with $5 flat-rate domestic shipping
Our tips for travelling with babies and toddlers
The flights are booked, the accommodation is sorted and you've somehow managed to fit everything into the suitcase. Now comes the fun part: actually getting there with the kids!
While no amount of preparation can guarantee a tantrum-free flight or a perfectly timed nap, a few clever tricks can make family travel feel a whole lot more manageable.
Pack for the journey, not just the destination
It's easy to focus on what you'll need once you arrive, but don't forget about everything that happens along the way. Keep nappies, wipes, spare outfits, snacks, bottles and a few favourite toys within easy reach. If you're flying, pack enough for unexpected delays, too. A change of clothes for yourself isn't a bad idea either. Trust us on that one.
Keep a few surprises up your sleeve
When it comes to entertaining toddlers on flights or long car journeys, novelty is your friend. Rather than handing over every toy at once, bring out a new activity every so often. A little colouring set, sticker book or activity bag can buy you some valuable distraction time, particularly when everyone is getting restless.
Don't try to recreate your entire nursery
Yes, familiar routines can help babies settle somewhere new, but that doesn't mean you need to pack every single thing they use at home. Prioritise a safe sleep space, familiar sleepwear and a few comforting bedtime rituals. You might be surprised how little you actually need.
Check what your accommodation already provides
Before squeezing a portacot, highchair and baby bath into the car, ask your hotel or holiday rental what's available. Some family-friendly accommodation provides baby equipment, which can save you a lot of luggage space. Just check that anything supplied is suitable for your child's age and meets relevant safety requirements.
Give yourself permission to do things differently
Bedtime might be a little later. Your toddler might eat more snacks than usual. And that perfectly planned itinerary might go out the window before breakfast. That's all part of travelling with kids! Leave room for slower mornings, unexpected stops and the occasional change of plans. After all, the point of a family holiday is to enjoy being together, not to stick to a schedule.
Ready for your next family adventure?
Travelling with babies and kids takes a little more organisation, but it also comes with some pretty wonderful moments. Their first time seeing the ocean, the excitement of boarding a plane or watching your toddler discover somewhere completely new? That's the good stuff.
And while you can't pack away every travel challenge, having a few genuinely useful essentials on hand can make getting there, settling in and exploring together that much easier.
Still getting organised? Explore our guides to the best travel prams in Australia and more baby travel favourites to help you get holiday-ready.
FAQs: Travelling with babies and kids in Australia
What are the essential things to pack when travelling with a baby?
The most important baby travel essentials are nappies, wipes, spare clothes, feeding supplies, a suitable sleep space and anything your baby needs for their usual routine. A well-organised nappy bag, lightweight pram and comfortable baby carrier can also make getting around easier. If you're flying, keep enough essentials in your carry-on for the journey and unexpected delays. Don't forget any regular medication, travel documents and a few familiar comfort items.
What should I pack for a toddler on a plane?
When flying with a toddler, think snacks, entertainment and plenty of backup supplies! Pack a spill-proof drink bottle, easy-to-eat snacks, spare clothes, nappies or pull-ups if needed, wipes and a few compact activities. Sticker books, colouring sets and small toys are particularly handy for keeping little hands busy. A familiar comfort item can also help with naps. Keep everything organised in a bag that's easy to access during the flight.
Can I take baby formula, breastmilk and baby food on a plane in Australia?
Yes. Australian airport security allows reasonable quantities of baby formula, expressed breastmilk and baby food needed for your journey, including exemptions from standard liquid restrictions where applicable. You may need to present these items separately during screening. Rules can differ for domestic flights, international flights and overseas connections, so check your departure airport and airline before travelling. It's also worth packing extra feeding supplies in case your flight is delayed.
Can I take a travel pram as carry-on luggage?
Some compact travel prams are designed to meet aircraft cabin baggage dimensions, but that doesn't automatically mean they'll be accepted on every flight. Airlines have different size, weight and baggage allowance restrictions, and some require prams to be checked in or handed over at the gate. Always check your airline's current policy before flying. Our guide to the best travel prams in Australia covers compact options worth considering for family holidays.
Do I need to bring a travel cot when staying in a hotel?
Not necessarily. Many hotels, resorts and holiday rentals offer portacots on request, although availability and quality can vary. If you're travelling with a baby, contact your accommodation before booking to confirm what's provided. Check that the cot is suitable for your child's age and meets current safety requirements. Bringing your own compliant travel cot can be useful if you're visiting multiple destinations or staying somewhere without suitable baby equipment.
How do you keep a baby or toddler entertained on a long flight?
The trick is to bring a variety of small, age-appropriate activities rather than relying on one toy to do all the work. For babies, soft books and familiar toys can be useful, while toddlers might enjoy reusable stickers, colouring sets, magnetic activities or an activity bag. Offer different activities throughout the flight and allow time for snacks, cuddles and rest. It's also worth downloading a few favourite shows before leaving, just in case.
What are the best travel essentials for a road trip with kids?
For road trips, focus on comfort, convenience and keeping essentials within easy reach when you stop. A properly fitted child car restraint, organised nappy bag, insulated drink bottle, snacks and age-appropriate entertainment are good starting points. A portable feeding chair and travel cot can also be useful once you reach your destination. Plan regular breaks, never leave children unattended in a vehicle and avoid offering food that could become a choking hazard while driving.
How can I travel light with a baby or toddler?
Start by checking what your accommodation provides, then pack the things you'll genuinely use every day. Choose lightweight, compact baby travel essentials that serve more than one purpose, such as a carrier for sightseeing or a backpack with plenty of organised storage. Packing cubes can help keep everyone's clothes together, while travel-sized toiletries save space. And remember, you can often buy nappies, wipes and other everyday supplies at your destination rather than carrying enough for the entire holiday.
Related Guides
11 Best Travel Prams in Australia for 2026: From Cabin-Friendly to Compact
The 9 Best Portacots & Travel Cots in Australia for 2026
The 19 Best Nappy Bags in Australia for 2026
The 9 Best Water Bottles for Babies & Toddlers in Australia for 2026
