How to sterilise baby bottles on holiday and what to pack

Going on holiday with your baby for the first time? Get ready for a trip full of memories you’ll treasure forever, from that magical first splash in the sea to your baby’s first plane ride and yes, probably your first nappy change in an airport loo… 

But before you jet off, there are a couple of questions all parents ask: how to sterilise baby bottles on holiday? And just as crucially, what to take on holiday with a baby? You’re in the right place as we’re answering both, right here.

🧼 How to sterilise baby bottles on holiday

We know holidays are all about breaking from routine but when it comes to feeding your baby, keeping things clean is non-negotiable. Luckily, there are plenty of easy, stress free ways to sterilise baby bottles while you’re away.

So, how do you sterilise baby bottles on holiday? Here are three methods:

1. Portable UV Steriliser

Let’s start with one of the easier, the travel sized holiday saviour that is a portable UV steriliser. It fits easily in your luggage and can be used poolside, at the beach or in restaurants.

Our Portable UV Steriliser works in just three minutes, killing 99.9% of bacteria with no water, no microwave, no chemicals. It even sterilises your phone if you need it too.

One full charge gives you around 17 cycles and once it’s charged, you don’t even need a plug.

2. Cold water sterilising

Wondering how to sterilise baby bottles on holiday without tech? Cold water sterilising is a great low fuss option. All you need are sterilising tablets or liquid and a travel-sized tub. (Top tip: a collapsible container saves loads of space.)

This method is super handy for hotel rooms, campsites and even on the go at the beach. And when you’re back home from holiday? You'll still find plenty of use for that compact tub.

3. Microwave steriliser or bags

If you’re in a self catering accommodation with a microwave, you can stick to your usual microwave steriliser if that’s what you use at home. Or, to save on luggage space, opt for microwave sterilising bags instead.

🍼 How to sterilise your RapidCool on holiday

If you use a RapidCool to make your baby bottles, then you may be wondering how to sterilise your RapidCool while on holiday. Luckily for you, we’ve created RapidSterilise, the ultimate sidekick for your RapidCool. Whether you’re at home, on the go or even on holiday abroad, RapidSterilise will sterilise your RapidCool in just one minute, banishing 99.9% of bacteria using UV.

🧳 Checklist: What to take on holiday with a baby

Next up: what to take on holiday with a baby? Spoiler alert, it’s more than just nappies and sun cream. However, don’t stress, we’ve got a handy checklist coming up that covers everything you’ll need.

👕 Clothing

• Nappies – No parent wants to be caught without these
• Wipes – For nappy changes and quick clean-ups on the go
• Bodysuits – A variety of vests: short-sleeved, long-sleeved and sleeveless for layering
• Sleepsuits – For bedtime and lounging in cooler evenings
• Outfits – Daytime clothes for outings or cooler days
• Sun hats – Bring plenty to protect from the sun and avoid overheating
• Swim nappies – For pool or beach time
• Bibs – Wipe clean options are best as you might not have access to a washing machine on holiday
• Blankets – Lightweight for layering and comfort
• Spare clothes in hand luggage – For both the baby and you in case of accidents

🍼 Feeding and weaning

• Baby bottles – Enough to cover the time between washes
• Sterilising equipment – Tablets, bags or a UV travel steriliser
• Breast pump (if using) – For expressing milk on the go
• Formula milk (if using) – Enough for the duration as some brands may not be available abroad
• Baby food – Pouches or jars if your baby has favourites or dietary needs
• Weaning equipment (if weaning) – Spoons, bowls, cups and wipes
• Muslins – For feeding, burping, and spills or to use as a blanket when it’s cooler

🧸 Comfort and entertainment

• Dummies (if using) – Take spares in case any go missing, which we all know happens a lot… a UV Dummy Steriliser is super helpful too
• Teethers – To soothe sore gums during travel, we recommend our Wrist Pal Silicone Teething Mitt as it stays secure on your baby’s hand
• Favourite toy – For comfort and entertainment, especially on the plane
• Light and sound machine – Helps with sleep in unfamiliar surroundings

🚼 Health and hygiene

• Sun cream (if over 6 months) – Baby safe sun cream with high SPF
• Baby bathing and moisturisers – The same products you use at home so you know they’re compatible with your baby’s skin
• Nappy cream – To prevent or treat nappy rash
• First aid kit – Include baby-safe medicine, thermometer, plasters, etc.
• Toothbrush and toothpaste – If your baby has teeth
• Hair brush – Soft-bristled for baby’s scalp
• Prescription medication – Bring enough for the whole trip, plus a bit extra

✈️ Travel essentials

• Baby carrier – Ideal for airports and sightseeing where prams aren’t practical
• Travel pram – Lightweight and compact for easy transportation
• Travel changing mat – Handy for quick changes anywhere
• Baby monitor – Always handy to have with you
• Car seat – Some rental companies provide these at an extra cost but many parents prefer to bring their own
• Travel cot (if your accommodation doesn’t provide one) – Check with your hotel in advance

📄 Important travel documents

• Baby passport – Ensure its valid and in date
• Travel insurance – That covers your baby and any pre-existing conditions

Before you jet off on holiday with your baby, don’t forget to read our blog post: Flying with a baby? 10 genius tips to save your sanity.

If you still need some last minute travel bits and bobs for your baby check out our baby travel essentials, including our newborn baby carrier, baby changing backpack and RapidCool portable formula feed maker.