Baby Travel
Published:
12.4.24

The Ultimate Checklist for Traveling to Puerto Rico with a Baby

Ultimate Puerto Rico Baby Travel Checklist | Island Butler

Planning a trip to Puerto Rico with your baby? Don’t worry! Our warm and friendly Island Butler team has you covered with this ultimate baby travel checklist. 

From travel documents to Puerto Rico baby travel essentials, here’s everything you need for a smooth vacation with your little one.

Travel Documents & Important Info

  • ID and Records: If you’re a U.S. citizen, no passport is needed for Puerto Rico, but bring your baby’s birth certificate or ID (airlines may ask for age verification for lap infants). It’s also smart to carry a copy of immunization records and any medical info, just in case.

  • Flight Prep: Confirm your airline’s infant policy. Most let you check a stroller and car seat for free. If you bought a seat for your baby, you can bring your FAA-approved car seat on board for safer, comfy flying.

Baby Gear: Pack vs. Rent

Traveling light is easier with Island Butler’s baby gear rentals. Decide what to bring and what to rent:

  • Stroller or Carrier: A lightweight stroller is handy for airports and malls, while a baby carrier is great for the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan. You can rent quality strollers locally if you prefer not to lug yours.

  • Car Seat: Puerto Rico law requires car seats for children under 4, so you’ll need one whether you rent a car or use taxis/Ubers. You can bring your own or rent a clean, safety-inspected car seat on the island. Island Butler offers convenient Driver Delivery & Return or 24/7 Self-Pickup in Santurce for rented seats.

  • Crib or Pack ’n Play: Don’t assume your hotel or Airbnb will have a crib—ask ahead. Many hotels provide them free. If not, consider renting a crib or pack ’n play so your baby has a safe sleep space (and even a high chair or baby bathtub if needed).

  • High Chair & More: If your accommodation doesn’t have a high chair for feeding time, you can rent that too. Other helpful items like baby bath tubs or bouncers can be rented, so you only pack what you really need.

Health & Comfort Essentials

  • Diapers & Wipes: Pack enough for travel days and the first day or two. You can easily buy more in Puerto Rico, so no need to pack a whole case.

  • Baby Food & Formula: Bring your baby’s formula or favorite snacks for the plane and first day. After that, you’ll find formula, baby food, and snacks at local supermarkets and pharmacies.

  • Sun & Bug Protection: The tropical sun is strong. Pack baby-safe sunscreen (for 6 months and up), a big sun hat, and lightweight long sleeves for shade. Also consider a gentle insect repellent if you’ll be in nature or out in the evenings.

  • Basic Medications: Bring a small kit with infant Tylenol/ibuprofen, a thermometer, and any prescribed meds. It’s comforting to have these if your little one isn’t feeling well.

Sleep & Routine

  • Comfort Items: Bring your baby’s favorite blanket, lovey, or white noise machine to help them sleep soundly in a new place. Familiar smells and sounds go a long way.

  • Stick to the Routine: As much as possible, follow your usual bedtime routine (bath, story, lullaby). Keeping things predictable will help your baby adjust to vacation life more easily.

On-the-Go & Beach Day Gear

  • Day-Out Bag: Pack a well-stocked diaper bag with essentials like diapers, wipes, a changing pad, a spare outfit, bottles or sippy cup, and snacks.

  • Beach Essentials: Puerto Rico’s beaches are gorgeous and you’ll want to enjoy them. Pack baby’s swimsuit, swim diapers, and a sun hat. Rather than overpacking beach gear, rent a beach umbrella or pop-up shade tent to protect your baby from the sun. Island Butler’s Puerto Rico beach essentials (like umbrellas and coolers) can be delivered right to you.

  • Hydration & Snacks: Keep your little one hydrated with formula, breast milk, or water (if they’re old enough). Bring plenty of baby-friendly snacks to stave off hunger during excursions.

Final Preparations

Before heading out, double-check that all the baby essentials (diapers, wipes, a spare outfit) are in your carry-on. 

If you forget anything, Island Butler is here to help. Get ready to make wonderful memories in Puerto Rico!