Checklist for What to Pack in a Diaper Bag

Diapers and Diapering Supplies

• Having enough diapers to last an entire outing is crucial; there's nothing more frustrating than cutting a trip short because you didn't pack enough diapers. How many you pack depends on how often your baby goes through them, and how long you plan to be out--newborns and young infants may need to be changed every hour, while toddlers may only need one or two diapers in an outing. In addition to diapers, you will want to make sure you have enough wipes and a diaper rash or barrier cream. If you use cloth diapers, do not forget a wet bag to store dirty diapers and wipes in; in a pinch you can use a disposable plastic bag, but it's not ideal. Some parents like to pack hand sanitizer for after diaper changes, as well as a reusable changing pad to cover diapering surfaces.

Food and Feeding Supplies

• If you're breastfeeding this may mean bringing extra nursing pads. Some mothers prefer to bring a bottle of expressed breast milk when out and about. If you're formula feeding, have a couple servings of unmixed powder--either in bottles or in a container designed to hold formula. With older children you will want to have some easy, nonperishable snacks or a jar of baby food and a spoon, and a cup or bottle of milk, water or juice. If your baby uses a pacifier, it's a good idea to have extras in your diaper bag.

Change of Clothes

• Especially in the early days of infancy, when diapers are more likely to leak and blow out, you will want to make sure you've packed an extra change of clothes for just such an occurrence. It's a good idea for older children who might spill food or drink on their shirt, or simply get dirty or wet while exploring. You may consider an extra shirt for yourself in the bag, in case you find yourself in the blast radius.

Toys and Blankets

• Having a couple of small toys to keep your baby entertained can be a life-saver in a long line or while finishing up a long grocery trip. Make sure the toy is one that your baby already enjoys and is developmentally appropriate. Loveys, such as a favorite blanket or small stuffed animal, may also help ease tension and help your child feel more comfortable if a meltdown is imminent. A receiving blanket can help keep the baby warm if it gets chilly, provide something to set the baby on if outdoors, double as a burp cloth, and be used as a cover for nursing mothers, if they need one for their comfort.

Medication

• If you have a teething child, or one who is on any sort of medication, it's important to make sure you have any necessary medication with you; you do not want to miss a dose and run the risk of a sick, weary or pained child while you're trying to finish up your business at the post office. Consider keeping a small tube of sunblock. Make sure medications are packed away in a secured or zippered section of your bag, to minimize the risk of your child finding it in diaper bag exploration.

Emergency Contact Information

• For some parents this is a point of personal security. While one parent may feel more comfortable knowing that if the parent is incapacitated someone could get in contact with the family or the pediatrician, for others it's an unnecessary risk to their personal security. If it makes you comfortable, consider having an index card with emergency contact information easily accessible within your diaper bag.