These are our holy grail non-negotiables for traveling with a baby (and actually getting sleep!). Whether we’re navigating chaotic airports, squeezing in naps during climbing trips, or just trying to make one hotel room feel like home, these items come with us everywhere.
We truly couldn’t travel, explore, or parent on the road the way we do without them.
Travel Cot: BabyBjörn Travel Cot Light
Our absolute number one item. It’s lightweight, folds compactly, and doubles as both a safe sleep space and a play space while we climb or hang out outdoors. We even bring it as carry-on for long-haul layovers—yes, we’ve set it up for naps in airport terminals!
Blackout Cot Cover: SnoozeShade for Portacots
Total game-changer. It turns the travel cot into a dark, cozy sleep zone anywhere we go. Great for naps in bright rooms or outdoors, and easy to wash.
TIP: Use our code FROTH10 for 10% off at SnoozeShade.
Baby Carrier: BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Free
Perfect for hiking, airports, or just getting through crowds. As Kaia has grown heavier, this one has been a lifesaver for our backs—supportive, breathable, and easy to clip on solo.
Sleep Sack: ErgoPouch Organic Cotton 0.3 TOG
We’re big fans of ErgoPouch. At home we use heavier TOGs (2.5 or 3.5), but for travel in warm climates, the 0.3 TOG is perfect.
It’s lightweight, packs small, washes well, and—most importantly—creates a strong sleep association for Kaia. As soon as it goes on, she knows it’s nap time.
White Noise: My Baby Sound Spa Portable (Big W)
Forget the expensive ones—this little device from Big W does the trick!
It’s durable, compact, and runs forever on batteries (we only changed them once during a 3-month stint in Thailand). A must for naps on the go and noisy environments.
Fan: Portable Camping Fan with LED Light (Rechargeable)
Thailand humidity taught us well! This fan clips onto the cot, has solid battery life, and gives Kaia the airflow she loves for sleep—especially when using the blackout cover.
TIP: It has a small green LED charging light—just cover it with black tape to avoid sleep disruptions!
Comfort Item: Doudou Bunny Amusette
Kaia’s beloved bunny! A gift from her aunty that’s become her essential comforter. We bought a second one just in case we lost it in transit—highly recommend buying doubles of any must-have comfort item.
This one even rolls into a little bag to stay clean while traveling.
Bug Net: Mosquito Pyramid Net (Double)
A must in mozzie-heavy destinations like Thailand. We throw this over her cot when she’s playing outside or sleeping at night—it keeps her bite-free and gives us peace of mind.
Real Life on the Road
If you’re prepping for a trip and wondering what gear is worth the luggage space, these are the tried-and-tested items we rely on every day. They’ve helped us get out and explore the world while making sure Kaia stays safe, rested, and comfortable.
Got questions? Want to share your own must-haves? Let me know—I’d love to hear from you!
Til next time,
R
