Essential Items for a Vacation to the Sun with a Baby, Toddler, or Preschooler

by Milk Bar on May 07 2025

holiday in the sun with a baby or toddler requires good preparation. Whether you are going on holiday by car or plane, you want to make sure that both you and your child are comfortable and well prepared. Below we discuss the most important essentials for a holiday with a young child, from the right gear to products that ensure the safety, comfort, and protection of your little one.

1. The Right Travel Buggy

A stroller is essential for any holiday with a young child. Are you going on holiday by plane or don’t have much space in the car? Then choose a compact travel buggy, such as the Joolz Aer+, the Cybex Orfeo or the Cybex Libelle. 

 

2. Travel Cot for a Safe Sleep

Before you leave, it’s best to check whether a cot will be provided locally for your little one. If not, a travel cot is essential. They offer a safe sleeping environment, are lightweight and compact, and therefore easy to take with you. They provide a familiar sleeping environment for your child, which is essential for a good night’s sleep, even in an unfamiliar place.

 

 

3. Child-Safe Car Seats for Safe Journeys

Safety is always priority number one, especially during car journeys on holiday. A suitable car seat is essential, and it is important that it meets the safety requirements for your child’s weight and age.

 


4. Protection Against the Sun and Insects

One of the biggest concerns during a holiday with a young child is protection against the sun and insects.

sun hat or cap is essential to protect your child from harmful UV rays, while UV-protective swimwear, offers extra protection. 

Protecting your child’s eyes is just as important as protecting their skin. Sunglasses for babies and toddlers provide the right protection against the bright sun and UV rays. These glasses are specially designed for the comfort and safety of young children. Together with a sun hat or cap, this provides optimal sun protection during outdoor activities.

Be sure to stop by the pharmacist for the right sunscreen

In addition, it is important to use products that protect against insects, such as the anti-insect spray, lotion or citronella tattoos from Suavinex, especially if you are travelling to a destination with lots of nature.

An anti-mosquito net for over the travel cot or stroller can also come in handy.

 

Zonnebril 9-24 Maanden - Delight Sage Green

 

5. Toys and Entertainment for the Road

Travelling with a young child can sometimes be long-winded, so it’s important to bring toys that can keep your child entertained during the journey. Choose compact, educational toys that fit easily in the bag. 

On our webshop you’ll find collections by age. For the very little ones, we have toys up to 1 year; for children from 1 year old, we naturally also have lots of toys.

 



6. Swimming vests and Water Fun

If you are going on holiday to a destination with water, it is important to bring a swim vest for your child. They offer extra safety in the water and help your child stay afloat while playing or swimming. Please note: a swim vest is not a life jacket. Always keep an eye on your child! 

Vanilla Copenhagen | Zwemvest Neo - New Oak



7. Snack Boxes and Drinking Bottles for the Road

During long journeys or day trips, it’s useful to have snacks and drinks on hand for your child. Bringing practical snack boxes prevents snacks from leaking in the bag and helps keep everything neat and tidy. Choose drinking bottles specially designed for young children, so they can drink easily without spilling. This keeps your child hydrated, especially on warm days.

 

Lässig Roestvrije Snackbox 3 Delige Set - Tiny Farmer Blue

 

 

8. Sun Shades for Car Windows

If you’re making long journeys, the sun can shine through the windows and cause discomfort for your child. Sun shades for car windows provide extra protection from the sun and help keep the temperature in the car more pleasant. They are easy to attach and ensure that your child is bothered less by the bright sun during the ride.

Little Dutch Autos Zonnescherm - Ocean Dreams

 

 

9. Spoons in a Travel Case and Silicone Bibs for Eating on the Go

For babies and toddlers who already eat solid food, it is handy to bring spoons that you can store in a practical travel case. This keeps the spoons clean and easy to carry, even during long journeys. Silicone bibs are also an essential item for on the go, because they are easy to clean and comfortable for your child to wear during meals. Silicone bibs protect your child’s clothes from spilled food and drinks, which is especially useful when you are on the move.

Conclusion

A holiday with a young child requires careful planning and the right products to ensure that both parents and children can enjoy a comfortable and safe holiday. From the right stroller and car seat to sun protection, travel cots, and entertainment for the road – with the right gear, you can enjoy a stress-free holiday. Make sure you are prepared with the right essentials so your little one can enjoy the holiday to the fullest, wherever you are travelling to.