This post contains affiliate links. An affiliate link means I may earn advertising/referral fees if you make a purchase through my link, without any extra cost to you. It helps to keep this little blog afloat. Thanks for your support!
Traveling internationally with kids can feel like a big adventure — and sometimes, like a big juggling act! Between long flights, layovers, and different climates, packing smart makes all the difference.
After more than 50 flights and family trips to 15 countries with my boys, I’ve learned what actually works (and what just adds extra weight!). So here’s my go-to list of international travel essentials for families — all tested by a real traveling mom.
✈️ Everything below is linked from my Amazon Storefront — where I share only what’s made our family adventures smoother and stress-free.
🎒 1. The Right Carry-On Backpack (for Parents and Kids)
Osprey Fairview/Farpoint 40L – This backpack fits in the overhead bin, is easy to organize, and perfect for international flights.
Kids’ Travel Backpack – My boys each carry their own with snacks, a hoodie, and small toys — it helps them feel independent and responsible.
💡 Tip: Pack a change of clothes, wipes, and meds in your carry-on in case luggage gets delayed.
🧳 2. Packing Cubes = Sanity Saver
Compression Packing Cubes – These are game changers! Each family member gets their own color, which makes unpacking at hotels so easy.
Toiletry Bag with Hanging Hook – Great for tiny bathrooms — keeps everything visible and off the sink.
👕 3. Quick-Dry, Lightweight Clothes
When you’re traveling abroad, you’ll wash clothes on the go — so fabrics that dry fast are key.
- Kids’ Quick-Dry T-Shirts
- Convertible Travel Pants (zip off into shorts!)
- Lightweight Hoodie – Doubles as a layer for chilly airports.
💡 Mom tip: Roll, don’t fold. It saves space and helps prevent wrinkles.
🧥 4. Layers for Any Weather
From tropical humidity to chilly mountains, layers keep everyone comfortable.
👶 5. Lightweight Travel Stroller or Baby Carrier
GB Pockit+ Air Stroller – Folds small enough to fit in the overhead bin (yes, really!).
Ergobaby Omni Breeze Carrier – Perfect for cobblestone streets or busy airports.
💡 Tip: Always use a stroller travel bag — it keeps it safe from damage during flights.
🎧 6. Headphones and Entertainment for Long Flights
Kids’ Volume-Limited Headphones – Comfortable and safe for little ears.
Noise-Canceling Headphones for Parents – Worth every penny when you’re trying to get a bit of rest on a long-haul flight.
Kids’ Tablets with Headphones – Preload shows, games, and audiobooks before takeoff.
💡 Tip: Bring a splitter so siblings can share the same screen without arguing!
🧸 7. Keeping Kids Entertained Beyond Screens
- Travel Activity Kits – Reusable stickers, coloring, fidget toys.
- Travel Pillow and Blanket Set – For those long overnight flights.
- Small Card Games – Perfect for airports and cafes.
💡 Pack a surprise toy for every long leg of the journey — it works like magic.
🧴 8. Health and Hygiene Essentials
- Mini First Aid Kit
- Travel Medicine Organizer
- Wipes, Sanitizer, and Tissues
- Collapsible Water Bottles
🧠 9. Smart Tech for Peace of Mind
- Apple AirTags – A total game-changer. Place one in each kid’s backpack, checked bag, or stroller. You’ll always know where your belongings (and kids!) are.
- Universal Travel Adapter – Works in 150+ countries.
- Portable Power Bank – Never let your phone die mid-transit.
💡 Pro tip: Attach AirTags to stuffed animals or car seats — it saves so much stress.
💧 10. Laundry on the Go
- Laundry Detergent Sheets – TSA-friendly and no mess.
- Travel Clothesline + Clips – Hang-dry in your hotel room.
- Foldable Laundry Bag – Keeps clean and dirty clothes separate.
☀️ 11. Sun + Insect Protection
Different countries = different bugs and stronger sun. Pack:
✈️ 12. Travel Documents & Organization
RFID Travel Wallet – Keeps passports, cards, and cash secure.
Document Organizer Folder – For tickets, insurance, and copies of passports.
💡 Pro tip: Take photos of passports and save them to your phone + email, just in case.
🎁 Bonus: Snacks and Comfort
Collapsible Snack Bento Box – Portion snacks ahead of time.
Reusable Water Bottle with Filter – Safer for international travel.
Compression Socks for Flights – For adults and kids.
Shop from My favorites and be REALLY ready for your trip!
International travel with kids doesn’t have to be stressful — it can actually be amazing (and surprisingly smooth!) with the right gear. After years of traveling the world with my boys, I’ve learned that less is more, but smart packing is everything.
👉 You can shop all my favorite family travel essentials in one place here:
Family Travel Amazon List – Real World Mami Picks
You may be interested on:
