Taking your little one out can be stressful, especially when you’re a new parent. Luckily, a little preparation will go a long way in making your outing smoother. Having a well packed diaper bag is one of the key factors for a successful outing. Whether you’re going shopping, traveling to see family, or visiting friends close by, there are essentials items you should always pack in your diaper bag.
WHAT TO PACK IN A DIAPER BAG
1. Diapers & Wipes
This seems obvious, but you want to make sure you have enough diapers and wipes to last the entire time you’ll be out. Pack one diaper for every 2-3 hours you’ll be out, plus 2-3 more, just to be safe.
2. Travel Sized Ointment, Lotion, Etc.
Packing travel sized ointment and lotions will help save space in your diaper bag, and give you space to pack other important items. Travel sized hand sanitizer is also another important item to pack, since you might not always be near a sink.
3. Changing Pad
Not every public restroom is equip with a changing station, so packing a changing pad is important. The changing pad will allow you to change your baby on a clean surface, and help make the process easier too.
4. Burp Cloths
Burp cloths are a diaper bag essential. They help keep you and your baby clean!
5. A Blanket
A blanket can serve multiple purposes including keeping your child warm, as a changing pad, nursing cover, or even a stroller shade. It might be best to pack more than one blanket, since they are so versatile.
6. Extra Pacifiers
If your baby uses pacifiers, be sure to pack a few extras. Pacifiers are small and easy to lose, not to mention that if one gets dropped on the ground, you’ll want to clean it at home later. When one gets lost or dropped, you’ll be glad to have some extras on hand.
7. Pre-portioned Bottles
If you’re bottle feeding, having a few pre-portioned bottles in your bag will keep you from carrying an entire canister of formula or having to find somewhere to pump or breastfeed.
8. Bibs
If your baby is eating solid foods, you’ll want to make sure you have a few bibs in your diaper bag so you can try to keep their clothes as clean as possible while you’re out and about.
9. Light Snacks (For Older Babies)
Even if you’re going out to eat or to a party where there’ll be food, it’s a great idea to pack baby friendly snacks. This will be helpful if you have a picky eater or are still working on introducing your baby to certain foods.
10. Toys
Pack a few of your child’s favorite small toys to keep them occupied for when they are in car seat, stroller and/or carrier. Having a familiar toy or lovey will help keep them busy and can diffuse a meltdown.
Above all, don’t stress! Focus on packing the critical items such as clothes, bibs and blankets. If you find you didn’t pack enough of an item such as diapers or wipes, you can always head to the closest store to grab more.
