Just as you prepared your home for an infant, travels with baby require very specific equipment. Do some research. Ask other new moms or your pediatrician for their recommendations.

The Equipment

• Car seat: Car seat models expire after six years, and technology is constantly changing. Make sure yours is up to date. Today's front-facing car seats include tether straps that attach to anchors that have been installed in all new vehicles since the model year 2001.

• Stroller: Strollers for infants should fully recline. If yours doesn't, borrow one that does or use a Snap-N-Go (a metal frame that converts your car seat into a stroller) until your baby can sit upright without slumping.

• Jogging or off-road stroller: This is a luxury item unless you're a regular runner, but they are far easier to push on and off sidewalks when you're out for a long walk.

• Rain cover for your stroller Sling and/or front carrier Baby backpack: Once your baby can sit supported, these are better for long walks with a heavy baby than a frontpack.

• Diaper bag or diaper backpack Portable crib or play yard: Hotels (and sometimes grandparents) will often supply cribs upon request, but these aren't usually in the best condition. If you use one, measure the slats — they shouldn't be more than 2⅜ inches apart. The Graco Pack and Play is a good investment for traveling as it's a crib, bassinet, and play yard in one.

• Portable highchair: If your baby is eating finger foods, a highchair will make mealtimes a lot more pleasant for everyone. A clip-on highchair can fit in the bottom of a big duffel bag.

• Bike seat or Burley (bike trailer) and helmet

The Accessories

The more comprehensive your diaper bag, the less you'll end up buying on the road. Use your judgment, however. If the majority of your trips are to run errands or pick up older siblings, you may not need everything on this list. Pack the less-used items in a separate bag to keep with you for day trips and overnights. Prepack in advance to prevent last-minute rushing — that's when you forget the essentials.

• Diapers (at least four)

• A refillable pack of baby wipes

• Diaper rash ointment

• Plastic bags

• Light blanket (to cover your baby or use as a play mat)

• Waterproof changing pad or rubberized sheet

• Cloth diaper (for burping and general cleanup)

• Sunscreen (for babies over six months)

• Bottles and formula, unless you're nursing exclusively

• Food for your older baby (Cheerios, etc.)

• A snack for yourself

• Water bottle (for Mom to drink and for cleanups)

• A change of clothes for your baby

• An extra shirt for yourself

• A stain remover stick

• Travel pack of tissues

• A few toys or rattles

• Paperback book or magazine for Mom