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Some people think traveling with a young baby is too difficult, but it can actually be one of the best times to go on a trip. At around six months, babies still nap two to three times a day, don’t eat much solid food yet, and are often content in a stroller or car seat. Sure, it won’t be a wild, carefree vacation, and yes, there’s still a lot to plan, but if you're debating whether to travel with your 6-month-old, consider this your sign to go for it.
That said, planning ahead is *essential* for a smooth and enjoyable trip for the whole family. To help you prepare, we’re sharing our go-to travel tips to make your family adventure truly unforgettable.
Tip #1: Pack Extra Formula in Your Carry-on
Unexpected delays, missed connections, or lost luggage can happen. So when it comes to infant formulas, it's best to over-prepare. Pack more than you think you'll need to cover any surprises. You can bring a full canister or pre-measure enough to last an extra day or two. Keep in mind that you’ll need enough formula time in the airport, for in-flight bottles, and after landing.
What you’ll need:
- Formula: Choose one suited for babies 6+ months (like this one!)
- Filtered water: To mix bottles on the go.
- Bottles: Don’t forget all parts—nipple, bottle base, and cap.
- Travel formula dispenser: This keeps things organized and easy when you’re in transit.
"Discovering Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula was a gamechanger for my family. After trying multiple brands, I was drawn to Happy Baby's commitment to quality and thoughtful formulation. What sets this formula apart is its dual certification: both USDA and EU Organic. It's crafted in Europe with premium ingredients, including organic lactose from grass-fed cows, closely mimicking the composition of breast milk." -Juliette King
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If your diaper bag doesn’t have snacks, is it even a diaper bag? Keeping a stash of easy-to-grab snacks in your diaper bag is essential, especially shelf-stable pouches like these ones. They’re packed with nutrition, have 3 grams of protein and fiber, and will keep your baby (and even older kids!) happy until the next snack break.
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Tip #2: Bring Portable Snacks
6-month-olds are just beginning to explore solid foods, but that doesn't mean they need a full three-course meal—especially while traveling. At this stage, babies typically eat one solid meal per day. On the go, think of it more as snack time to help them continue practicing with solids.
Pouches are a great travel snack because they don’t require utensils. Depending on the brand, they can also deliver a lot of nutrition in just a few bites. The Happy Tot Fiber and Protein pouches, for example, are baby-approved, delicious, and provide both protein (for energy and satiety) and fiber, which is helpful for keeping digestion regular when schedules shift during travel.
Tip #3: Pack Extra Changes of Clothing
Babies are messy—it’s just part of the package. Whether it’s spit-up, a diaper blowout, unexpected drool, or a food spill during snack time, having extra clothes on hand is essential when you’re on the go. Instead of packing one or two outfits for each day of travel, pack three or four. It's always better to have more than you think you'll need (you’ll thank yourself later!).
For travel days especially, pack at least 2 to 3 extra outfits in your carry-on or diaper bag. Choose soft, easy-to-change onesies or zip-up sleepers that are comfortable and quick to get on and off in tight spaces like airplane bathrooms or car seats. It’s also a good idea to pack an extra shirt for yourself. You never know when a burp or bottle mishap might land on you instead of the burp cloth.
Tip #4: Be Flexible With Your Baby’s Schedule
While you probably won’t be able to follow your baby’s exact routine while traveling, maintaining some familiar elements can go a long way in helping them feel secure. A little predictability can provide comfort during an otherwise stimulating and unfamiliar experience.
Bring their favorite comfort items (like a familiar sleep sack, pacifier, or portable white noise machine) to help recreate their sleep environment wherever you are. Try to space out naps similarly to how you do at home and aim to keep them within the same general time frame. This can help prevent overtired meltdowns and make the whole day smoother for everyone.
Tip #5: Bring a Baby Carrier
Sometimes babies just want to be held, especially in new or overstimulating environments. That can make it tricky when you're exploring a new town, navigating crowded spaces, or going on a nature walk. Instead of wrestling with a stroller in tight or uneven terrain, bring a comfortable baby carrier. It keeps your baby close, your hands free, and can make on-the-go naps much easier, especially if your baby is overtired and needs the comfort of contact.
Tip #6: Plan for Diaper Changes Anywhere
You won’t always have access to a clean changing table, so be ready to create a makeshift changing station wherever you are. Pack your diaper bag with a portable changing pad, plenty of diapers, a full pack of wipes, and a few plastic or wet/dry bags for soiled clothes or diapers. Add travel-sized diaper cream and hand sanitizer—especially helpful if you’ll be on the road or away from sinks for long stretches. Pro tip: Restock your diaper bag each night so you’re not scrambling in the morning.
