Diaper Bag Checklist: What to Pack in a Diaper Bag?

Packing your diaper bag is like preparing for battle. Simply throwing all your baby-related items in a diaper bag is asking for trouble. In fact, most experts recommend that the same amount of effort you put into getting your baby ready for a day off also apply to your diaper bag. Here’s a diaper bag checklist that every parent should follow, even if they’re just going for a walk in the park.

The essential

1. Diapers – After all, this is why it’s called a diaper bag, right? When it comes to diapers, many is definitely better than too few. Pack a diaper for every hour outdoors, plus a couple more just in case.
2. Baby wipes – Baby wipes can be your savior, so make sure your diaper bag always has them. They are incredibly useful for changing diapers, as well as cleaning dirt, stains, and of course keeping your hands clean.
3. Blanket – Most parents leave blankets at home because they don’t see the need to use them. However, blankets do more than cover your baby during naps. They also make great nursing, shade, or changing covers, just in case something happens to the original.
4. Hand sanitizer – Some places are not conducive to changing diapers, and even public establishments with bathrooms may not be as hygienic as you think. Using a hand sanitizer after a diaper change or after going to the bathroom can be very helpful.
5. Bottles – Some mothers may not be comfortable with the idea of ​​breastfeeding in public, so they bring bottles of expressed milk instead. If you are bottle feeding, you can bring a bottle of baby formula prepared for short trips. Long trips may require bottled water plus a specific container to hold the pre-measured baby formula.
6. Biodegradable bags – These bags are useful for dirty diapers and other used items like clothing. Buy thicker plastic bags, as thinner plastic bags tend to leak and the smell can cling to the diaper bag.
7. Pad changer – A must for diaper changes on the go. Most diaper bags come with their own matching changing table. You can also go for disposable changing tables to cut down on clutter and clutter.
8. Pacify gold toy – Even babies find comfort in many things, such as sucking on a pacifier or fiddling with their favorite rattle. Bring these items along just in case, as you never know when your baby will start to fuss.
9. Extra clothes – Stains and spills are common during outings with your child, so it is always recommended to bring an extra set of clothing, even for short trips.
10. Important numbers – this is vital, especially for long trips or vacations. If your child suddenly has a fever or is feeling unwell for no reason, it is important to always have their pediatrician’s number handy.

Optional items

1. Cream against rashes – If your baby’s skin is sensitive and tends to rash, you may need to add this to your diaper bag as well.
2. First aid box – Your first aid kit should contain bandages, items necessary for cleaning wounds, medicines for fever and common baby pains (tooth pain, for example). More items may be needed depending on the needs and age of your child.
3. Walker – Get one that stores well inside vehicles. Most excursions will require strollers, although you may want to bring additional baby transport methods in addition to a stroller.
4. Slings and wraps up– Slings or wraps are great alternatives to strollers, especially if your baby is feeling anxious or nervous about being in a strange place. Sometimes they feel better snuggled against a parent or guardian, and slings and bandages make this possible while making it more convenient and painless for the person carrying the baby.
5. Nursing covers and breast pads – These are optional items for nursing mothers who want to breastfeed their babies in public. Most also have a lactation room, where you can breastfeed your baby in peace.

For toddlers and older babies

1. Appetizers – Snacks are a great way to ease hunger and calm young children, who tend to be louder, especially during long road trips.
2. Coloring books and toys – Another great way to reassure young children while waiting to be called by name at your next doctor’s appointment, or even during a family gathering.
3. Sippy cups – This is for young children who have graduated from the bottle. Fill the sippy cup with water, juice, or milk.

You can pack additional items in your diaper bag, depending on your situation and your child’s needs. However, it is important that most of the items on the list, especially the essentials list, are never forgotten. You may be overwhelmed by the large number of items you need to toss in your diaper bag. You’re probably thinking “How am I supposed to put all that in a bag? “.

If you find that you can’t fit everything you need into your current diaper bag, chances are you are using the wrong diaper bag for your needs. Getting a bigger diaper bag or one with more compartments for better and easier organization is definitely the key. To help you better organize your diaper bag, here are some helpful reminders:

• Most bags come with multiple compartments. Use them and group similar items, so rummaging through your purse isn’t a big ordeal.

• The items you will need the most should be the most accessible.

• It is also a good idea to buy two diaper bags. Get a smaller one for short trips and errands, and get a bigger one for long trips and vacations.

If you’re having a hard time packing your diaper bag, that’s fine. New parents need to try harder when it comes to packing diaper bags. As time goes on, you’ll get more used to it, and before you know it, you’ll know how to properly pack your diaper bags without having to look through a checklist.