Things to Pack in a Diaper Bag

If you are a new parent, packing your baby's diaper bag can be somewhat overwhelming. You will often be tempted to overpack out of fear of forgetting something. It helps to remember that your diaper bag is like a traveling nursery; it should contain everything your baby needs while away from home and should be ready to go at any moment.

  1. Changing Materials

    • Many parents have a large diaper bag for long outings and a smaller diaper bag for quick runs to the grocery store. Each bag should have enough diapers for the time you will be away. "Parents Magazine" recommends one diaper for every hour you will be gone. Your bag needs to have all the materials you use when changing diapers, including a changing pad, diaper-rash ointment and baby wipes. A few plastic bags for dirty diapers will also come in handy.

    Clothing

    • Babies can have messy accidents, whether from spitting up, leaky diapers or food stains, so an extra change of clothes for your baby is essential in your baby bag. Pack an extra shirt for yourself and your partner in case your baby decides to throw up on either one of you. In summer, you should pack a hat and sunscreen for your baby to protect him from the sun, and during colder months you should pack a sweater or jacket for him.

    Food, Snacks and Milk

    • If you are bottle-feeding your baby, some pre-made formula can be kept cool in the baby bag with the help of ice packs. You can also pack extra servings of formula in separate containers. If your baby eats baby food, make sure to pack a spoon to feed it to him. Pack several bibs to catch any spills. A burping cloth to use when burping your baby after feedings should also be packed. Don't forget to pack any snacks such as crackers and cereal that your baby might enjoy. It also never hurts to include a snack for yourself.

    Additional Items

    • Once the essentials are packed, you want to include some additional items. If your baby responds well to pacifiers, pack one or two. Toys to keep your baby occupied can be a lifesaver. If your baby is sick, any medicine your doctor recommended should be brought along. Antibacterial hand-sanitizing lotion can benefit both you and your baby since germs are everywhere, and you don't always have access to soap and water. Last, have your pediatrician's number in the baby bag together with any emergency numbers you may need.

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