8 Must-Haves When Heading Out with Your Little One

8 Must-Haves When Heading Out with Your Little One

Come summers, and the innate love for vacay-ing goes off the charts. Whether it’s a road trip, a laid-back beach trip, or simply a weekend getaway, it’s essential to keep the right things on your radar for the comfort of your little one. Wondering what to pack and what not to? Fret not; we’ve got your back! 

Here we’ve compiled a list of must-haves, tried and tested, to help you pack smarter for all those adorable chaos-filled outings with your little one.

Hydrate On-The-Go

First things first! Pack plenty of baby food and formula milk to keep your little one’s tummy full throughout your travels. Remember, a happy tummy is an important step towards keeping your little one fuss-free. Go for easy-to-eat foods like fruit purees, porridge mixes, along with water or diluted fruit juices to help your baby stay nourished and hydrated.

Sun Protection Gear

Protecting your little one from the sun’s harsh UV rays is essential. Exposure can harm their delicate skin, eyes, and immune system, leading to sunburn and even skin cancer. Equip your baby with sun protection gear like a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, umbrella, and breathable, long-sleeved clothing crafted from cotton to shield them effectively.

Diapers and Even More Diapers

When it comes to packing for your baby, nothing tops the importance of diapers. Ensure a stress-free journey by packing at least one diaper for every hour of travel time for your little one. And don’t forget to take along some extra diapers as a backup - because you can never be too prepared when it comes to your baby’s comfort and happiness.

Diaper Rash Cream

No matter how absorbent the diapers are, your little one’s bottoms is susceptible to pesky diaper rashes, which can end up ruining your fun trip. A travel-size diaper rash cream for babies enriched with the goodness of zinc oxide, chamomile, and other natural ECOCERT/ COSMOS Organics certified ingredients can provide fast relief from redness and irritation. This will allow you and your little one to enjoy every moment of travels without any discomfort.

Talc-Free Baby Powder

A soothing talc-free powder for babies will keep your little one sweat-free and cool on-the-go. Why talc-free? Talc is a naturally occurring silicate mineral. Studies have brought forth the detrimental effects of talc and talc-based products, particularly when used on infants and young children. Therefore, look for a gentle, travel-size talc-free powder for newborns specially formulated with natural and certified ingredients to absorb excess moisture and sweat, ensuring your little one stays fresh and sweat-free throughout your summer adventures.

Lightweight Stroller

Roam around with your little one without any hassle with a compact and lightweight stroller. It is easy to maneuver and transport during your travels. Make sure to go for one with a canopy or sunshade, which will not just ensure a seamless transition from one place to another, but also shield your baby from the sun’s harmful rays. 

Baby Wash & Shampoo

When you are travelling with your baby, make sure to carry a gentle baby wash and shampoo for your little one’s hygiene. Avoid carrying or procuring locally available soaps as it can increase the likelihood of skin irritation. Besides, while travelling soaps get dirty and messy very easily. Opt for a gentle foaming body wash and shampoo for newborns that comes in easy to carry mini travel packs, which will cleanse your little one’s skin and scalp without stripping away its natural oils.

Moisturizing Baby Balm

Follow up with a moisturizing baby balm for newborns to lock in hydration and keep your little one’s skin soft and supple. Baby’s skin loses moisture easily as it is 20x thinner than an adult’s skin, and baby balms are more hydrating than water-based lotions and creams. Opt for a moisturizing baby balm enriched with natural ingredients like coconut oil and shea butter.

Final Thoughts

Your travels with your precious one need not be hectic and the above checklist will guide you in having the essential stuff handy. While packing skincare for your baby, go for travel-size mini packs to avoid overstuffing your bags. CITTA’s travel-size skincare set is formulated with ECOCERT/ COSMOS Organics certified ingredients to keep babies happy, healthy, and comfortable during their little explorations.

Happy travels!

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

  • Top 12 Baby Birthday Gift Ideas That Will Make ...

    When it comes to choosing the perfect baby birthday gift, most people feel stuck between buying something adorable or something useful. After all, a baby’s first birthday isn’t just about...

    Read more

    Top 12 Baby Birthday Gift Ideas That Will Make Parents Smile Too

    When it comes to choosing the perfect baby birthday gift, most people feel stuck between buying something adorable or something useful. After all, a baby’s first birthday isn’t just about the little one - it’s also a huge milestone for the parents who’ve navigated sleepless nights, endless cuddles, and everything in between. So, what’s the best 1-year-old baby gift? Ideally, something thoughtful that brings joy to the baby while making life easier (and sweeter) for the parents. From practical keepsakes to baby skincare essentials, here’s a list of 12 baby birthday gifts that always win hearts. 1. Personalized Products Customized name blankets, photo albums, or engraved silver spoons make timeless keepsakes. They become a treasure for parents, helping them preserve memories of their baby’s earliest years. 2. Baby Care Hampers Parents always appreciate a gift that combines love with utility. A curated baby care hamper - including baby lotion, baby shampoo, body wash, and gentle massage oils- is both practical and pampering.  Check out CITTA’s Cocoon of Care, an all-in-one set that blends dadi-nani ke nuskhe with modern science for safe, dermatologist-approved baby care. 3. Educational Toys Wooden puzzles, stacking blocks, or musical toys encourage learning through play. They’re engaging for babies while supporting early motor and cognitive development. 4. Baby Massage Oils A baby massage session is more than just skincare; it’s a bonding ritual between parent and child that has been cherished in Indian households for generations. Gentle massages not only strengthen bones and muscles but also improve circulation, calm the baby, and promote better sleep. Choosing a safe, natural oil makes this gift extra thoughtful. CITTA Nourishing Baby Massage Oil is enriched with time-tested natural ingredients that deeply nourish delicate skin, leaving it soft, healthy, and well-protected. Also Read: How Should First-Time Mothers Shortlist the Best Oil for Baby Massage? 5. Baby Books Soft cloth books, sound books, or interactive storybooks are wonderful ways to spark early love for reading. Plus, they give parents a new way to bond with their little one. 6. Skincare Essentials for Babies Baby skin needs extra care - gifting gentle skincare products like baby lotion, body butter, or mild soap is always appreciated. Since parents are often particular about safety, ensure they’re dermatologist-approved, like CITTA’s transparent, safe baby formulations. 7. Clothes That Last Cute onesies and coordinated outfits are common gifts - but choosing organic cotton or breathable fabrics makes them both thoughtful and practical. Babies outgrow clothes quickly, so slightly bigger sizes are a smart pick. 8. Growth & Memory Kits Baby milestone kits - such as handprint and footprint frames - are unique gifts that help parents capture memories that otherwise slip away too fast. 9. Feeding Essentials Sippy cups, spill-proof plates, or bamboo feeding sets are practical birthday gifts. They’re perfect for transitioning babies from bottles to independent eating. 10. Soft Furnishings A cozy quilt, swaddles, or breathable baby blankets are warm and functional gifts. Look for ones made from natural fabrics to keep the baby comfortable across seasons. 11. Outdoor Baby Gear Items like strollers, carriers, or diaper bags are on the pricier side, but if you’re close to the family, they make excellent joint gifts. These are lifesavers for parents on the go. 12. Self-Care Gifts for Parents The best way to celebrate a baby’s birthday is often by taking care of the parents, too. Gifting them relaxation hampers, spa vouchers, or even CITTA’s baby care products that make daily routines stress-free can be a gentle way of saying, “You’re doing amazing.” Wrapping It Up Choosing the right baby birthday gift isn’t about picking the fanciest toy; it’s about finding something thoughtful, safe, and useful. From personalized keepsakes to CITTA’s dermatologist-tested baby care range, your gift can make a real difference in both the baby’s comfort and the parents’ daily routine. So next time you’re invited to a 1 year baby birthday celebration, skip the generic toys and bring a gift that shows both care and consciousness. Because when it comes to babies, safety, love, and a touch of tradition always win. Also Read: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Safe and Effective Baby Care Products

    Read More
  • Is Sunscreen Really Good for Kids? What Every P...

    Introduction Children's skin is delicate. Their skin is about 30% thinner than adult skin, which makes it more vulnerable to the sun in India. Yet, many parents think sunscreen for...

    Read more

    Is Sunscreen Really Good for Kids? What Every Parent Should Know

    Introduction Children's skin is delicate. Their skin is about 30% thinner than adult skin, which makes it more vulnerable to the sun in India. Yet, many parents think sunscreen for kids is an extra burden instead of considering it a daily essential. Sun protection is absolutely necessary, yet it falls to the bottom of parenting priorities. Now, it is indeed important to explore the following questions: Is sunscreen really necessary and safe for our little ones? Why Kids Need Sunscreen More Than Adults Children’s skin needs extra protection than adults. Because their skin is much thinner, it absorbs UV radiation more readily, leading to immediate and long-term damage. Children often seem to spend their hours on playground breaks, school sports, or maybe a family outing, which all happen under significant sun exposure. According to research, during childhood years, substantial sun damage occurs. As per the Skin Cancer Foundation, before age 20, five severe sunburns increase melanoma risk by 80%. Therefore, early protection is about preventing temporary sunburns as well as safeguarding against future issues like premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and more serious conditions. What Makes a Sunscreen Kid-Friendly? All the sunscreens we see contain different components, particularly when it comes to children's sensitive skin. The best sunscreen for kids offers: These broad-spectrum covers come with both UVA and UVB protective factors. High SPF ratings, such as SPF 70 sunscreen, provide the best protection. Sunscreen, holding a PA++++ rating, provides intense protection in India's hot and humid conditions Formulations that have zero harmful chemicals like oxybenzone, parabens, and others. Unscented, gentle formulas that won’t irritate sensitive skin Try CITTA Protecting Sunscreen SPF 70 – specially formulated for baby-soft, sensitive skin. What to Look for in a Baby Sunscreen Lotion Things parents should prioritize while buying a baby sunscreen lotion Products that have gone through extensive dermatological testing Tear-free formulations that do not trouble the eyes Water-resistance properties are included, especially when kids are sweating or swimming The product is lightweight and has non-greasy textures that kids will not resist wearing All these features ensure your child will receive the best protection from the sun with no discomfort, which will eventually make the daily application much easier for everyone involved. When and How to Apply Sunscreen on Kids Timing and technique are both extremely important to know when it comes to effective sun protection. Apply sunscreen for kids 20 minutes prior to going out as it gives the product some time to form a protective barrier on the skin. While applying, we have to be really generous, as most parents use too little. Apply all the exposed areas, including often forgotten ones: ears, neck, and feet. Putting an alarm on in your phone for the reapplication of your preferred sunscreen every two hours is essential, especially after swimming or heavy perspiration. Do not forget to make sunscreen a year-round habit. It is just not for sunny days, but it is necessary to apply sunscreen on cloudy days too. Harmful UV rays penetrate cloud cover, reaching your child's skin. Common Myths About Sunscreen for Kids Let's go through some common misconceptions: ❌ "Children don't need sunscreen if they stay in the shade." Reality: Reflection of UV radiation from surfaces like sand, water, and concrete reaches the skin even in shaded areas. ❌ "Sunscreen is only necessary during summer or beach outings." Reality: UV radiation affects skin year-round, no matter what the temperature is. ❌ "Dark-skinned children have natural protection." Reality: It is true that melanin offers some protection, but it is essential to have dedicated sun protection for children. ✅ Truth: Every child benefits from daily sun protection irrespective of the nature of the weather, location, or skin tone. Also Read: Sunscreen for Kids: Debunking Myths and Determining the Right Age to Start   The CITTA Advantage: Why Parents Trust Our SPF 70 Sunscreen When choosing the best sunscreen for kids, parents trust in CITTA's SPF 70 protection. Let’s take you through what sets it apart: Specifically formulated to protect children's delicate skin from the sun Doesn't leave a chalky white residue that kids will not like Contains no harsh chemicals that might cause sensitivity Works effectively and efficiently across all skin types and tones Pediatric skin specialists do recommend this to parents. As per parents’ honest reviews, children prefer CITTA Protecting Sunscreen SPF 70, its pleasant, non-sticky feel, which is less of a battle and has turned into a routine of protection for their children’s skin. Final Thoughts Sun protection isn't just about preventing today's sunburn, but it is also an investment towards your child's lifelong skin health. When applying baby sunscreen becomes a habit of daily skincare routine as brushing teeth, it establishes a discipline, a healthy habit that will benefit them for decades. With the right child-safe sunscreen in India, children get the freedom to enjoy outdoor activities while you are also ensuring that their precious skin is protected. Remember: healthy skin begins with early protection, and the responsibility of keeping the skin protected begins with you.  Also Read: How to Choose the Best Sunscreen for Dry Skin   FAQ Section: 1. Is sunscreen safe for babies and toddlers? Yes, for children over 6 months, it is absolutely okay to apply sunscreen, which is a mineral-based formula with zinc oxide for sensitive baby skin. For younger babies, rely on shade and be picky about clothing instead. 2. Can I use adult sunscreen on my child? It's better to use dedicated baby sunscreen products as children's skin is more sensitive. Therefore, kid-friendly formulas have fewer irritating ingredients. 3. How often should I reapply sunscreen on my child? Every 2 hours during sun exposure, and repeat the application more frequently (every 80 minutes). Do the same while swimming or sweating heavily. 4. Is SPF 70 sunscreen too much for kids? No, SPF 70 sunscreen provides appropriate protection for children and is perfect for dealing with India's climate. Most parents are not aware of the right quantity of the product to use, so higher SPF offers better safety. 5. Can sunscreen cause skin irritation in kids? Some children may be sensitive to certain ingredients. Before picking a sunscreen, perform a patch test first. Choose mineral sunscreens for sensitive skin and consult a doctor if irritation occurs. Also Read: The Best Sunscreen for Newborn: Protecting Your Baby’s Delicate Skin

    Read More