What necessities should you keep on hand in the car with your baby

Remember when road trips were fun? When it wasn't a big deal to take the extra time off work and drive to your destination, pulling off the road and exploring along the way, instead of flying directly there? Once you have a baby, road trips get a bit more complicated. But if the mere idea of flying with a baby strikes fear in your heart (same), taking a road trip with baby is your best travel option.

As for the other items that make a road trip with baby safe and manageable, you should pack:

Feeding supplies (examples: breast pump, bottles and bottle cleaning kit, nursing cover, milk storage bags, insulated cooler for milk, , burp cloths, bibs, pumped milk or powdered formula, baby food if appropriate)

Engaging car seat toys (note: just make sure they’re securely fastened to the handle of baby’s car seat or somewhere they can’t pose a risk)

Changing and cleaning supplies (examples: changing pad, extra diapers, wipes, diaper cream, hand sanitizer, car seat liner, several changes of clothes, disposal bags for dirty wipes)

Sleep needs (examples: travel bassinet, car baby monitor)

Safety items (examples: car baby monitor, first aid kit with infant fever/pain reducer and forehead thermometer, sun shade)

Soothers (examples: pacifiers, baby’s favorite blanket, white noise machine)

Portable transportation (examples: lightweight stroller, baby carrier, travel high chair)