How To Be Prepared For Anything: What You Really Need In Your Diaper Bag

Sure, everyone has an opinion about what classifies as a diaper bag essential. But honestly, some moms are minimalists. Some are really handy at making do with whatever is handy. And the rest of us just like to be really, really prepared. Here’s what you really need in your diaper bag to be ready for just about anything.

Start with the Essentials

There is a small-ish list of non-negotiables that need to be in your diaper bag at all times. These cover the basics like food, comfort, privacy, hygiene, and entertainment.

• Burp Cloths
• Wet Wipes
• Diapers
• Changing Pad
• Diaper Cream
• Extra Outfit (or 2)
• Snacks/Formula/Milk
• Bottles
• Blanket

The Safe-Bet Diaper Bag Additions for Newborns

• If you use cloth diapers, keep a few emergency disposables in your diaper bag just in case.

• If you breastfeed, pack a manual hand pump in case you need to express in a pinch.

• Add two more extra outfits and at least one of the next size up because blowouts happen.
• Speaking of blowouts, add an extra dirty bag.
• Even if you don’t routinely breastfeed, pack a multipurpose nursing cover.
• Add your pediatrician’s phone number to your diaper bag too.
• Teether
• Over-the-Counter pain relievers like infant Tylenol.
• Thermometer

A Few Diaper Bag Essentials for Toddlers

As babies grow into toddlers, their needs change–a little. They still need diapers and they will still probably need an extra outfit. Here are a few more reminders for the diaper bag essentials list.

• You’ll need a Sippy Cup (or 2), because restaurants never seem to have truly kid-friendly cups.

• Pack sunscreen because toddlers are a lot more active and love the outdoors

• Consider throwing in a few bibs to cut down on the number of outfits you’ll need.

• Bring a small selection of toys and books to entertain bored toddlers.

• And, absolutely do not forget any necessary toilet training aids.

Here’s a pro-tip from moms who know what to expect. Pack your kids favorite toy and pack a new toy. Something brand new to them can be a great way to keep them entertained when their toddler-sized patience has worn out.

How to Get More Room & Fit What You Really Need in Your Diaper Bag

All this extra gear is going to take up more space. The only problem is that you may end up carrying multiple baby bags. One handy solution is to utilize a diaper bag backpack style that has a larger capacity. With traditional shoulder bags, you always have to worry about weighing yourself down. The upside to the backpack-style diaper bag is that you can run down the diaper bag checklist for newborn and toddler-aged kids and still carry the bag with ease.

The Bottom Line on Packing Your Diaper Bag For Every Situation

The truth is that you could pack your whole car full of every baby care item and there could still be a situation where you don’t have exactly the right thing. Cut yourself some slack and recognize that this isn’t an indication of your parenting skills–just a fact of life. The best solution is to stick to the essentials and maybe one or two extras depending on the specific needs of your trip and your child. Shop our backpack diaper bag collection at Fawn Design today.