Suggestions for Packing a Diaper Bag
You might not be out with your baby long, but, even if you’re going to the store, you never know what will happen. The baby may soil him or herself. He or she may spit up. He or she could get a bee sting. No matter what happens, you should be prepared by having a fully packed diaper bag.
Most parents have a basic idea for what should go in a diaper bag. Obviously, diapers should be the first to go in, but how many and which creams? Should you bring a changing pad? Diapers aren’t the only materials you need when taking your baby out, and Parentdish gives some suggestions for packing a diaper bag without having too much or too little:
• Always bring about half a day’s supply of diapers. More should be brought along for longer trips.
• A changing pad.
• A travel-size case of wipes. If you don’t have individual travel cases, pack a bag of wipes and put them in the bag.
• Travel-size containers of balms, powders, and creams.
• A change of baby clothes.
• A bottle and snacks. These should be packed well to prevent them from being soiled and exposed to bacteria.
• Two to three small toys, such as rattles and teething rings.
• Basic first aid items, such as baby aspirin or another child-appropriate pain reliever and bandages.
• Consider packing a bib, tissues, and a pacifier for longer trips.
• Never put purse items, such as electronics, cash, and a cell phone, in a diaper bag. Also, never store large toys in a diaper bag.
Diaper bags can look like purses on the outside, but they have the space to pack all of these items. However, make sure that you can carry the bag and that it will fit on a stroller once you have it fully packed.