Why is it that there’s such a negative connotation on first-time moms “over packing” their diaper bags? What’s the problem with being 100% prepared for any situation? Okay, so maybe 4 changes of outfits for a quick outing is a little much, but all things considered, anything could happen and it’s ALWAYS better to be safe than sorry!
First step: a diaper bag. The Diaper Bag Buying Guide is an amazing resource for all things you could ever learn about diaper bags in general! And once you’ve chosen the perfect bag for you and your babe, here’s what to put in it to be prepared for almost anything:Diapers and wipes
A change of clothes
Skip Hop GRAB & GO It doesn’t matter the activities of the day, a change of clothes is almost always a must! Skip Hop has a great product that separates wet clothes from dry clothes and allows a handy place to keep the items you’re done with for the day!Bottle/drink
Petunia Pickle Bottom Bottle Buttler
Bottles or sippy cups often have seniority when it comes to baby’s demands, so keeping them handy is important. Built-in pockets often accommodate these, but if you need another option, you can use the Bottle Butler, an insulated carrier, to allow for longer storage.
Burp cloth/bib
Sure, you could improvise and use a napkin or wipe, but just as convenient for spills during or after eating would be a bib or a burp cloth. Even better is when one can double as both, like Burpy Bibs!
Snacks/food
Food storage is always the most disorganized part of packing my diaper bag. I tend to just throw snacks in last minute so they end up with no home, smashed, or lost! However, there are handy tools like these food storage containers to help with that!Pacifier
Man, I swear these things get lost and reappear like no other baby item in history. A designated spot for the binky is a must, and thankfully, there are Paci Pods to ease the stress of finding a pacifier in an emergency.
Toys
Books, stuffed animals, and small toys are wonderful accessories to add to any diaper bag. But be sure to take inventory of what is being packed to assure it is all brought home as well!Blanket
Of course, it’ll depend on the weather or the activities, but blankets are pretty versatile, so it’s never a bad idea to have one on hand.Stuff for mom
Last but not least, the best way to keep things tidy in a diaper bag is to keep mom’s stuff separate from baby’s stuff. This most likely means picking a mom only pocket for keys, phone, wallet, etc.