As a parent, you know that leaving the house with a baby or toddler needs a lot of planning and preparation. One of the most important items you should pack before going out is a diaper bag. It should have all the essential things you’ll need to keep your baby comfortable, clean and entertained on the go. In this blog we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide about what to pack in a diaper bag, in order to be prepared for any situation.
The must have items that you should pack before going out with your baby depends on many factors like how old is your baby, how long are you going to be out and where are you going. Still there are a few essentials that you must always have with you. Try to think of all the possible situations you might encounter when you are out and start packing for them. It is good to divide these essentials in categories so you don’t forget and skip anything important. Here is how you can categorize them:
First thing you need to pack is diapers. Pack an average of 1 diaper for every 2 to 3 hours, and keep a few extras to be used in case of any accidents.
Keep a pack of wet baby wipes with you to clean any spills, wipe down any surfaces and clean your baby’s bottom.
Pack a small size diaper rash cream to save space. Choose from options containing zinc and aloe vera, to protect and soothe the skin of your baby. Petroleum jelly and olive oil are good alternatives you can buy in case you forget to carry one.
These days almost all baby bags come equipped with a changing pad. In case you don’t have one attached to your baby bag, carry one with you. Nowadays disposable changing pads are also readily available in the market.
A pair of feeding bottles should be carried at all times to meet your baby’s hunger demand. Other supplies include a container of pre-made baby formula & portable bottle warmer. If you are breastfeeding, then consider packing breastmilk storage packs.
Nursing covers are very user friendly as they provide privacy and comfort to the mother and baby while feeding. They can keep your little one warm and can also be used as a stroller cover against wind and direct sunlight.
Whether you are bottle feeding or breastfeeding, you need to keep bibs and burp clothes with you. Cotton bibs and burp clothes easily absorb and clean your baby’s spit up. Missing them is a big no, especially when your little one is having a difficult time with digestion.
If your baby is eating solids, pack a jar of baby food or some healthy snacks for your baby.
Bring a refillable water bottle to keep your baby hydrated throughout the day. If your baby is on bottle feed then you would also need water to prepare formula milk for your baby.
To keep your baby comfortable and entertained while you are out, consider packing these essentials:
If your baby loves to be swaddled, pack a few lightweight blankets or sleep sacks with you, so they can feel safe and comfortable.
Always keep extra clothes for your baby in case there are any diaper leaks or spills.
You should keep some extra layering with you for your baby. Like sweaters or jackets for chilly or windy weather.
If your baby uses a pacifier, keep one or two with you to soothe them and make them feel comfortable while out.
Pack some of your baby’s favourite toys or teething toys to keep your baby busy and entertained during their outings.
Keep a small tube of antibacterial ointment with you in case of any minor cuts or scrapes.
Keep a few bandages with you to be used in case of any minor injury.
If your baby has any prescription medicine, be sure to pack it in the bag.
It provides a safe and handy solution to cleaning your hands, before and after changing or feeding your baby.
These are helpful to throw away soiled diapers or used wipes or tissues.
To protect your baby’s sensitive skin, keep a sunscreen and sun hat with you for outdoor trips during hot weather. According to Quora, when going on long trips, make sure you have a proper diaper bag ready with sun protection creams and sun hats and other essentials like changing mats.
For winters it is a good idea to pack some extra mittens or gloves, socks and winter hat for your baby.
These are the essential items you have to keep with you for your baby to have a safe and comfortable fun outing.
Nowadays some diaper bags have parent pockets or pouches where you can keep your important stuff. Even if it doesn’t, you can use a compartment or pocket of your diaper bag to keep a few essential items for yourself, like:
As much as knowing what items to pack in your baby’s diaper bag is important, it is of immense importance that you know exactly what feeding essentials you would require as a new mother. Babymore therefore understands how stressful it must be for you and has prepared this detailed blog on feeding essentials just for you.
Here are some tips and tricks for you to pack your baby’s diaper bag like a pro:
A messy bag makes it impossible to find what you need in time. Follow these steps to easily organize your baby bag.
Look for a diaper bag with multiple compartments and pockets. If your bag does not have many compartments, you can use transparent little bags to keep your bag clutter free.
Grouping similar items together, such as diapers, wipes, rash creams and changing pads will help you save time when looking for something. This will also give your bag a well organized look.
Use labels or stickers to identify what is inside each compartment. This will save you a lot of time.
Always pack the leaky or liquid items separately. No matter how tightly you close the lids, there is always a chance of accidental leaks from bottles. It is a good idea to use a small plastic bag to keep all the items that can leak. In this case even if any leakage happens, it will remain in the plastic bag and won’t destroy other items of the diaper bag.
If you are using powdered formula, measure the formula and water and store them separately. Mix them together when your baby needs a feed. If you are giving breast milk in a bottle, store them with the appropriate amount of milk in coolers.
Try to pack the items you would really need so that you won’t have to carry around a heavy diaper bag with you.
Check your diaper bag regularly and restock any essential item you are running low on.
Hope this blog was helpful for you!
