Adventure is calling! Or maybe it’s your doctor’s office?
Either way, the time has come for you and your baby to get out of the house for a bit. To do so, you’ll need to be prepared to bring all the necessities your baby may need while you’re on the go. Whether it’s a quick trip to the grocery store, a visit to thank someone for hosting your baby shower, or a day-long excursion, a diaper bag is the perfect way to organize and carry all of the accessories that come with parenthood.
We’re here to guide you through the must-haves that will make your life easier and minimize stress during outings with your little one. We’ll explore the core items that should find their place in your diaper bag, as well as a few optional bonus items. And we’ll share some simple tips for packing your diaper bag. We’ve even created a handy checklist that you can download to keep track of what you’ve packed and what you still need.
Download this FREE Diaper Bag Checklist PDF from Joy
Must-Haves to Pack in Your Diaper Bag
Planning ahead can make all the difference when leaving your home with your baby. Including these must-have items in your diaper bag will ensure you’re prepared for anything life throws your way.
Diapers
This one’s a bit of a no-brainer: be sure to carry diapers in your diaper bag. You definitely don’t want to be caught without one when your little one needs a change. Whether you use disposable or cloth diapers, they are a must-have in your diaper bag. If you’re wondering how many diapers you should pack in your diaper bag, diaper companies suggest at least one disposable diaper for every two to three hours you’ll be out, plus a couple of spares.
Wipes
Baby wipes are handy and useful for cleaning up messes, not just during diaper changes but also for sticky hands and messy faces. They are gentler on your baby’s skin than a damp napkin or paper towel, which will help keep your baby feeling clean and comfortable. Since you’ll go through a lot of baby wipes, look for ways to get free baby wipes and other products to save money.
Portable changing pad
A changing pad creates a clean and soft surface for diaper changes when you’re out and about. It’s a practical item that is essential to keeping your baby off potentially dirty or uncomfortable surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
As we all learned during the pandemic, hand sanitizer is a must for maintaining good hygiene when you can’t access soap and water. After changing diapers or handling other sticky or germy baby-related tasks, it’s a quick and effective way to clean your hands.
Diaper cream
Since over 50% of babies between 4 and 15 months of age will develop a diaper rash at least once within a two-month period, having diaper cream on hand can be a lifesaver. It helps soothe irritated skin and also works to prevent diaper rash, keeping your baby comfortable and happy.
Plastic bags for dirty diapers / clothes
Disposing of dirty diapers when you’re out in public can be a challenge. Keeping a few plastic bags in your diaper bag will come in handy for containing the mess. Whether it’s a dirty diaper or stinky stained baby clothes, sealing them in a plastic bag helps prevent both odors or potential contamination inside your diaper bag.
Burp cloths
Burp cloths are a must-have when cleaning spit-up or other baby-related messes. Thankfully, they’re small, easy to carry, and will help keep you, your clothes, and your baby clean.
Nursing cover (if breastfeeding)
For breastfeeding moms, a nursing cover ensures privacy and comfort during feedings when you’re out and about. Some women prefer using a nursing cover rather than a blanket because it can be secured around their neck to prevent slipping.
Formula (if bottle feeding)
If you’re not breastfeeding exclusively or at all, having pre-measured formula in your bag is crucial. During longer outings, it’s especially convenient to make sure that your baby’s food is ready when they need it.
Clean baby bottle
Whether your baby is formula-fed or pumped breast milk-fed babies, a clean bottle with pre-measured formula or milk is necessary when you’re on the go. Since babies rarely eat on a timely schedule, you’ll want to be prepared with your preferred baby bottle for when the moment strikes.
Bottle of water
Having a bottle of water in your diaper bag makes it possible to quickly prepare a bottle of formula or rinse off a pacifier in a pinch. It’s also useful for quenching your own thirst and keeping you hydrated.
Baby blanket
A cozy baby blanket provides warmth and comfort for your baby during naps or unexpected temperature drops. You can also use it for a diaper change if you don’t have a portable changing pad on hand. And, if your baby loves being swaddled, a blanket can help calm a cranky little one.
Change of clothes
Unexpected accidents happen regularly with infants, so having an extra set of clothes in your bag for your baby is a must. This bit of planning ahead will help you quickly recover from unexpected spills or messes.
Bib
When feeding your baby on the go, a bib will help keep their clothing clean from drool, spit-up, and food spills. It will also make mealtimes away from home more manageable and mess-free.
Pacifier
Every infant needs soothing at some point. A pacifier can help calm them during fussy moments, making it a crucial item to have on hand in your diaper bag. Some parents opt to have more than one in their bag in case one is lost or becomes dirty.
Rattle
Being able to keep your baby engaged and entertained may be the determining factor in you completing your outing as planned. A rattle can easily capture their attention and keep them occupied by helping to prevent boredom and restlessness.
Phone charger
Keeping your phone charged while you’re out with your baby is a top priority for multiple reasons. Besides simple communication, it’s useful for accessing parenting apps, capturing memorable moments, and keeping track of timing your baby’s schedule. So having a phone charger on hand is a must.
Your wallet and keys
Making sure you’ve got your own essentials can be like a mini treasure hunt when it’s time to head out with your little one. You definitely don’t want to be stranded without your keys, wallet, or phone when you need them the most.
Bonus Helpful Diaper Bag Items
Bring your diaper bag game to another level with some additional useful items that can make your adventures with your baby even more convenient and stress-free. From extra clothing options to soothing toys and more, these additional essentials can be a lifesaver in unexpected situations.
Extra shirt for you
Carrying an extra shirt for yourself can be a lifesaver in case of unexpected spills or messes. It makes it possible for you to feel put together and comfortable without disruption when you’re out with the baby.
Teething toy (if teething)
A teething toy can provide quick relief for your baby when their teeth are coming in, causing them pain and discomfort. The soothing tool can help them stay calm and content during your travels or outings.
Snacks for baby (if eating solids)
Having easily accessible and age-appropriate snacks for babies who are eating solids allows you to handle their hunger needs on the go. Depending on what stage they’re at, a baggie of plain Cheerios, a banana, string cheese, or a hard boiled egg work well for small hands.
Baby hat
Depending on the season, carrying a baby hat can help protect your little one from the bright sun or chilly weather. It also provides added protection for their delicate skin and helps regulate their body temperature, helping them to stay comfortable and shielded from harsh weather conditions.
Sunscreen
Although not needed for every trip out of the house, having sunscreen for babies (over 6 months only) can be helpful if you’re outdoors for an extended period of time. It safeguards your baby’s sensitive skin from harmful UV rays, reducing the risk of a painful sunburn.
Small first aid kit
Having a small first aid kit in your diaper bag provides some peace of mind in case of minor accidents or injuries. It allows you to provide immediate care and quickly address any cuts, scratches, or bruises that occur while on the go.
Snacks for you
When you’re out and about with your baby, remember to take care of yourself, too. Having readily available snacks ensures that you can maintain your energy levels. Then you can properly care for your little one and enjoy your adventures away from home.
How to Pack the Perfect Diaper Bag
Learning how to pack your diaper bag to maximize space is almost like a rite of passage. These tips and tricks should help make sure that your diaper bag is well-organized, fully stocked, and ready for any parenting situation.
Organize by compartment
Divide your diaper bag into sections for diapers, wipes, changing pad, and spare clothing, making it easier to locate items quickly during emergencies. Use another area for feeding-related items such as bottles, formula, and a bottle of water. Some parents use clear and durable zippered bags to store related items so they can grab them in a hurry.
Prioritize easy access
Keep frequently used items like wipes, hand sanitizer, and snacks within reach by placing them in exterior pockets or top compartments. This allows for easy and convenient access when your hands are full. Try arranging your items side by side instead of stacking on top so that you can more easily see what’s in your bag.
Save space
Use space-saving techniques like rolling clothes and blankets to maximize the available room in your diaper bag. By doing so, you can fit more diaper bag essentials without creating frustrating clutter.
Repack when you get home
Restocking your diaper bag immediately after returning home will help you stay prepared for your next adventure out in the world. By replenishing any used items and refilling supplies right away, you won’t have to worry about running out of anything when you need it most.
By planning ahead and packing diaper bag essentials like diapers, wipes, a changing pad, and other key items, you can feel prepared for any situation while on the go. Have fun with it and personalize your bag based on your baby’s unique needs and your plans for the day. A well-stocked diaper bag will help you focus more on enjoying your adventures with your little bundle of joy.
Diaper Bag FAQ
What makes a diaper bag different from any other bag?
A diaper bag is different from other types of bags because it is specifically designed with multiple compartments, pockets, and features crafted for carrying essential baby items like diapers, wipes, bottles, and changing pads. Most diaper bags are also designed to be durable and easy to clean.
What should I look for when selecting a diaper bag?
Look for a bag with ample storage compartments and easy-to-access pockets for organizing your diaper bag essentials. Make sure it has a durable and easy-to-clean material that can withstand daily use. Additionally, prioritize your own comfort and convenience by choosing a bag with adjustable straps and comfortable padding.
Consider your personal style preferences, too, since diaper bags come in a wide variety of designs, colors, and patterns to match your aesthetic. The bag should be large enough to carry what you need without being too bulky or cumbersome to carry. You can even let your family and friends celebrate your choice by including it on your baby registry checklist.
Do I need a diaper bag every time I go out with my baby?
No, a diaper bag is not a necessity for every trip out of the house. It’s a necessity for longer outings or when you anticipate your baby will need frequent diaper changes or feedings. For shorter trips, you might opt for a smaller diaper bag or simply pack a few essentials in your regular bag.
What are some diaper bag alternatives?
A sturdy backpack can offer ample space for all your baby essentials and distributes weight evenly, making it a practical option. Some parents opt for large tote bags with several compartments or use stroller organizers for easy access to essentials. Another option to consider is a diaper bag insert that can fit inside a regular bag, providing the functionality of a diaper bag.
