Every parent knows that a diaper bag is like a security blanket for parents or a super-strong mom purse. No matter what happens—whether it’s crazy meltdowns, sudden hunger, or, yep, messy diapers—a packed bag that goes over your shoulder (and easily clips onto the stroller) can make things better. But what’s a diaper bag without its important stuff? You’ll be carrying a bunch of things. Here’s a simple checklist on what to pack in a diaper bag to make sure all your must-haves are right where you want them when you want them.
Do you really need a diaper bag?
While you could use a backpack or tote you already own, specific shoulder or backpack diaper bags designed for carrying your baby’s essentials are available. Many of these bags come with extra features like changing pads or cooler compartments for on-the-go convenience. Most have numerous pockets and compartments, and some even eliminate the need for a separate handbag with dedicated spaces for your phone, wallet, and keys. Additionally, diaper bags come in various styles, from discreet and modern designs to more vibrant patterns. The choice is yours!
Baby Diaper Bag Checklist
Wondering what to include and what you can skip? Take a moment to think about all the things you’d like (and have to) do with your baby when you’re away from home. Here’s a kickstart for you – a list of diaper bag essentials for newborns that most moms would find handy while traveling:
- Diapers
- Disposable diaper bags
- Pacifiers
- Wet wipes
- Changing mat
- Burp cloths or washcloths
- Hand sanitizer or alcohol
- Baby food (and bottles!)
- Spare clothes
- Lightweight blanket
- Toys
- Baby lotion or ointment
- Diaper rash cream
- Baby hat (for warm or cold weather)
- Sunscreen
- Snacks (for toddlers)
- Band-Aids
- Essential purse items (phone, extra money, keys, and important contact information)
Extras to Consider Adding in the Diaper Bag
Being prepared for unexpected moments is a crucial aspect of handling parenting challenges. Given the unpredictable nature of babies, having all your essential tools readily available can make a significant difference. It’s wise to keep your parent toolkit easily accessible, if not always, then at least most of the time. Enhance your diaper bag arsenal by considering the following additions to take your preparedness to the next level:
- Reusable placemats: Your server might clean the highchair, but who knows where that cloth has been?
- Nasal aspirator: Keep your baby happy on the go by expertly clearing their stuffy nose.
- Nursing cover: Handy for breastfeeding in public, though not essential for everyone.
- Extra shirt for yourself: Avoid unexpected spit-up surprises by having a spare shirt on hand.
- Nursing and vaginal pads: Not for the baby! It is essential for you, especially in the first weeks after birth when your flow is heavy.
Some tips for packing your diaper bag essentials for newborns
When it comes to packing your diaper bag, a thoughtful approach is crucial. Tossing things in randomly may lead to regret as you fumble to locate items while managing your lively little one. Prioritizing organization is vital, particularly for those moments when you require something in a hurry, like grabbing a burp cloth for a sudden baby spit-up or rescuing a pacifier that has mysteriously found its way to the depths of your diaper bag.
- Organize by category: Don’t turn your diaper bag into a mystery zone. Assign specific spots for items, so you can easily grab what you need without a struggle. Utilize pockets or compartments wisely, and if your bag lacks them, use small bags like clear re-sealable ones to group similar items, such as pacifiers and bottle nipples.
- Portion bottles: If you’re using powdered formula, measure out the formula and water separately for mixing when needed. For breast milk bottles, pre-fill the right amounts and store them in a cooler to keep them fresh.
- Stop leaks: Prepare for the inevitable leaks from milk bottles, water bottles, or sunscreen. Pack each leak-prone item in a re-sealable plastic bag to contain any mess and prevent it from spreading throughout your diaper bag. No one wants to deal with a wet, messy bag when on the go.
- Add a diaper-bag caddy: In a clever twist on the earlier suggestion, create this by attaching a standard pack of wipes to the lid of an empty wipe tub using an elastic headband. This smart setup frees up space inside the tub for crucial diaper-changing items like diapers, spare clothes for unexpected messes, and a compact portable changing pad. This way, when your baby needs a quick change, you can effortlessly grab and go.
Know what to pack in your diaper bag to ensure you’re prepared for any emergencies
Prepare for parenting success by packing a well-organized diaper bag filled with essentials for both you and your baby. Choose a dedicated diaper bag with convenient features, and consider adding extras like reusable placemats, a nasal aspirator, a nursing cover, an extra shirt for yourself, and nursing and vaginal pads. Follow a simple checklist for newborns, keeping diapers, wipes, changing essentials, spare clothes, toys, and more. Stay prepared, stay organized, and make parenting on-the-go a breeze!