I love a carry-on backpack for the airport because I am hands-free. And it is still big enough to fit everything I need. Note this is the extended full list, for shorter flights I of course remove some of the things!
Here's the list:
- Phone (+ charger)
- Cash & cards individually in one of the inside pockets (saves space)
- Glasses/sunglasses
- Passport, Baby Passport & ID
- Ipad
- Lip balm (outside pocket, easy access)
- Hydrating face mask
- Lotion
- Hand sanitizer (outside pocket, easy access)
- Face wipes
- Camera
- Headphones
- Memory card
- Directions/travel itinerary/address
- Diapers (count for overall trip duration + delays)
- Wipes
- A blanket
- 2 changes of PJs
- Bibs
- Food (purees in pouches + snacks such as puffs)
- Roll of plastic bags for used diapers
- Mobil Changing Pad
- Disinfecting towels
- Baby Tylenol
- A few toys/teething toys
* Please note for shorter flights I don't bring some items. Use accordingly to your needs.
If baby is younger you may also want:
- Burping cloths
- Pacifiers
- Top changes for mom & day
- Extra baby PJs
Note: We also bring the carrier (to walk around airport hands-free) but we don't carry it in our bags, we wear it (with baby) around the airport and take it off when we board, place it in a plastic bag (that we are given at the airport when we purchase snacks) and place in the compartments for the duration of the flight. So it does not bother us.