As a parent, you want to be ready for anything when you head out the door with your precious little one, whether it’s for a walk in the park, a visit to a friend’s house, or a doctor’s appointment. One item that you can’t leave your house without is a well-stocked diaper bag, filled with all the essentials that you will need to keep your baby clean, dry, and happy. Read on to find out why you need a diaper bag, and what to pack in it.
Do You Really Need A Diaper Bag?
You might have wondered whether you really need a diaper bag as you put together your baby registry or shopped for baby gear. Technically, you could use a tote bag or even a backpack that you already own, but if you're looking for something more suited for the task, many diaper bags are designed for carrying the essentials you need for a day out with your baby.
Many diaper bags include unique features like changing pads or cooler bags to help keep breast milk fresh. Most of them also have multiple compartments and pockets for all your storage needs.
Items To Pack In Your Diaper Bag
The essential items you need to pack in your diaper depend on the weather, where you’re headed, and how long you plan to be out and about. Here are the basic items you need in your diaper bag:
Many diaper bags come with a changing pad, but if yours doesn’t (or you need a larger one), throw in one.
You will need one diaper for every 2 hours you're out and about – and maybe a couple of extra ones just in case.
Look for baby wipes that come in a travel-size pack so that they don’t take up too much space.
Choose travel-sized tubes to save space.
Use these to temporarily store wet or soiled clothing, as well as dirty burp cloths.
Pack 2-4 burp cloths for wiping up your baby’s spit-up and any other spills.
This comes in handy in case you can’t wash your hands before feeding your baby, or before and after a diaper change.
If you use pacifiers, store them in a clean re-sealable bag to keep them sanitary.
If you use them, pack baby bottles and other feeding supplies such as bottle nipples, a portable bottle warmer, and pre-made formula.
If your baby eats solid food, pack as much as you’ll need. If you have a toddler, also pack some healthy travel-friendly snacks, as well as water. Remember to pack some snacks and water for yourself as well.
Pack a seasonally appropriate hat to block out the sun or cold.
Spit-up, blow-outs, and leaky bottles can happen, so you want to pack a change of clothes just in case.
If you suspect your baby might get bored, pack some of his favorite toys – rattle, teethers, board books – to bring along with you
Final Thoughts
A diaper bag can make day-to-day life with your baby so much easier. With all the items you need well-organized and in their designated place, you can feel fully equipped to head out for a day trip, a quick outing, or even an overnight stay with your little one.
