Packing for Chicago with a Baby? Here's What You Actually Need
Packing for a baby can feel like packing for a small army. The good news is that you need less than you think, especially if you plan ahead for what's waiting when you land. Here's a realistic list for a few nights in Chicago, sorted by where each item belongs.
In your diaper bag (for the flight or drive)
This is everything you'll want within arm's reach before you get to your hotel:
Diapers for the travel day, plus 3 or 4 extra for delays
A small pack of wipes and a portable changing pad
Formula or breast milk for the trip, plus extra in case of delays
2 bottles, a pacifier, and a backup pacifier
A change of clothes for your baby, and a spare shirt for you
A light blanket or swaddle
A favorite small toy or teether
Any medicine your baby takes, plus infant pain reliever (ask your pediatrician which kind)
Hand sanitizer and a few zip-top bags for messes
In your suitcase
Clothes for each day, plus 1 or 2 extra outfits
Pajamas or sleep sacks
A baby carrier for crowded spots like museums and the "L"
Baby sunscreen and a sun hat in summer
Bath basics, if your hotel doesn't have baby wash
Dressing for Chicago weather
Chicago weather changes fast, so pack layers in every season.
Spring and fall: a warm layer for breezy days by the lake
Summer: light, breathable clothes and a hat, since the sun on the lakefront is strong
Winter: a warm one-piece snowsuit or bunting, a hat that covers the ears, mittens, and a stroller blanket or cover
What you can skip
The bulkiest things are the ones you can leave at home:
The bassinet or travel crib. These are heavy, awkward, and easy to damage in checked luggage.
The stroller. Airlines handle strollers roughly, and gate-checking one adds stress at both ends.
A week's worth of diapers and formula. They fill a whole suitcase.
White noise machine, diaper pail, and extra bottles.
With Arrive Ready Baby, all of these are waiting at your hotel or rental when you arrive. Your box includes a travel bassinet, a compact stroller, a white noise machine, a diaper pail, diapers in your baby's size, wipes, formula in your brand, and 2 new bottles and pacifiers to keep.
A quick checklist for the night before
Diaper bag packed for the travel day, with extras for delays
Formula or breast milk measured for the trip
Medicine and your pediatrician's phone number saved
Hotel or host told you're traveling with a baby
Delivery confirmed for your arrival day
Pack light. Arrive ready.
Spend less time packing and more time enjoying Chicago. Reserve your baby box and everything bulky will be waiting when you land.
