5 Essentials for Stress-Free Road Tripping with a Baby

Road Tripping with a Baby? Here’s What Helped Us Stay Sane

Traveling is such a beautiful way to create memories—especially when you get to share the adventure with your little one. It’s not just about the destination; it’s about showing them the world, even if it starts with a car ride a few hours away. That said, road-tripping with an infant can come with a few challenges (hello, unpredictable moods and mystery messes). But with a little preparation, the journey can be just as enjoyable as the arrival.

Here are a few simple things that made a big difference for us:

✓ Snacks (for everyone!)

Hungry passengers = cranky passengers. Bring snacks for the whole crew so you don’t have to stop every time someone needs a bite. A well-timed snack can work wonders in avoiding those hangry meltdowns.

To help organize the variety of snacks (because let’s be real—everyone has a favorite), bring along a multi-compartment snack container. These are a game changer for road trips! They keep everything neat, easy to grab, and save you from digging through a dozen ziplock bags. Whether it’s puffs, fruit, crackers, or trail mix, each snack has its place—and less mess means more peace.

✓ Hand Sanitizer, Wipes & Paper Towels

Sticky hands, surprise spills, diaper mishaps—you name it, it’ll probably happen. Keep these essentials in the front console so you’re ready for anything without digging through the diaper bag on the highway.

✓ Grocery Bags for Trash

If you don’t have a mini trash can in the car, stash some grocery bags in a seat pocket. They’re the perfect catch-all for snack wrappers, wipes, and whatever else piles up, keeping your car (and your sanity) a little more under control.

✓ Towel

This tip came straight from my sister (shoutout to Stephanie!)—and it’s a lifesaver. You’re cruising along when suddenly, an unmistakable smell wafts from the back seat. Time for a diaper change. But the nearest option? A questionable gas station bathroom. No, thank you. That’s why it’s essential to pack a towel or changing mat you can lay out in the back seat or trunk. It gives you a clean, soft surface to take care of business with minimal germ exposure—because comfort and cleanliness matter, even on the go. 

If you find yourself somewhere without a trash can in sight (which happens more often than you'd think), pack a roll of diaper disposal bags. These little lifesavers are perfect for sealing up dirty diapers on the go. Not only do they help contain the mess, but they also mask the smell until you can toss them properly—because no one wants that lingering scent in the car.

✓ Non-Screen Toys

Let’s be real—sometimes you just need a moment of peace, and handing over a phone or iPad feels like the easiest solution. But since it’s recommended to avoid screen time for littles under 2, here are some fun, engaging alternatives to help keep them entertained (and you sane) on the road. Think: soft books, textured toys, rattles, or even a mini activity board. These options can help spark curiosity and keep tiny hands busy—no screen required.

To keep toys from constantly hitting the floor (and save yourself from becoming a full-time backseat fetcher), try linking them to the car seat with these handy plastic rings. They're inexpensive, versatile, and make it easy to keep your little one's favorite toys within reach—and off the ground.

Road tripping with a baby might sound overwhelming at first, but with a little preparation and the right essentials, it can be a fun and memorable adventure for the whole family. From snacks to diaper bags and toys, packing smart helps you stay ahead of the chaos and enjoy the ride. Remember—things might not always go exactly as planned, but with flexibility, patience, and a well-packed bag, you’ve got this. Happy travels!