YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT GOES IN A DIAPER BAG

Selecting a Diaper Bag 

Before you even start packing, we have to emphasize that picking the right diaper bag actually makes a huge difference. If you don’t have a diaper bag yet, let’s first look at some of the key features you want with whatever brand and model you choose. 

• Lots of storage space is a must. From small pockets for keys and phones to strategically sized storage for bottles, you will use it all!

• Easy access to wipes is crucial. You can’t anticipate a spill, and changing diapers on the go is never easy. Make sure you can reach and grab the wipes with one hand - which means they’ll likely be on the outside of your bag.

• It has to be easy to carry. People prefer all different ways of carrying their diaper bags (shoulder bags, satchel bags, tote bags, backpacks, etc.), but what matters most is that it’s comfortable and practical for your needs.

The Definitive List of What Goes in a Diaper Bag

Prepare for lots of snacks. Eating while out of the house is easier when you’ve got the right gear. 

Snacking

• Silicone snack cups and bowls

• Sippy water cups

Breastfeeding

Many moms will have to breastfeed their babies while out of the house, and no diaper bag essentials list would be complete without a few critical nursing items.

• Nursing cover

• Breastpump

• Burp cloths

Diapering

You’ll change many, many diapers at home and on the go. Eventually the whole process will become second nature, and doing a quick diaper change in your open trunk won’t feel strange at all. However, leaving even one critical item at home can make a real mess. Pack the supplies below and you’ll be covered.

• Wipes

• Diapers

• Just like wipes, you have to keep more than one diaper in your bag at all times. We recommend leaving unused diapers in your diaper bag - don’t unpack them. This way, when you’re headed out again next time, you’ve already got a headstart. 

• If you’re unsure of where the day will take you, it’s a good idea to keep a spare swim diaper in the diaper bag as well. Our diaper bag essentials list would be useless if it didn’t prepare you for an impromptu visit to a splash park or pool!

• Of course, you’ll want a convenient area to store dirty diapers to make sure that they don’t stink up or soil other items in your diaper bag. Sealable bags made for holding dirty diapers are definitely required for any diaper bag.

• Changing mat 

• Diaper cream

Playing

No matter your child’s age, they’ll have episodes of incurable boredom while away from their friends, playrooms or backyards. Fun toys and engaging books will help them entertain themselves on those long car rides, in a grocery line, or sitting at the beach.

• Small, portable chewy toys for teething can preoccupy a newborn or young baby until their next nap. Rubber or plastic keys are a classic, tried and true toy that are perfect for fidgety fingers. A plush toy can also provide some much needed comfort to a distressed or over tired little one.

• Board books can tuck nicely into the pockets and your child may enjoy looking at pictures or sounding out words while riding in the car. 

Extras

Depending on the day that you have planned, here are a few extras to finish our list of what goes in a diaper bag:

• Sunscreen to protect your baby’s sensitive skin during prolonged exposure.

• Hats or gloves for cold weather, which can stay in your diaper bag all winter. 

• One extra change of clothes can be a lifesaver if your baby leaks through their diaper or has a particularly messy meal.

• A small blanket can turn a patch of grass into a great play area, or help keep your baby warm in an air conditioned environment.