A diaper bag is a must-have for any mom on the go! Not only does a stocked diaper bag provide convenience, but it also gives you peace of mind knowing that you have everything you need for a successful outing with your baby.
But what should you pack in your diaper bag? If you're a first-time mom and find it hard to figure out what you need to bring, don’t stress! From diapers to wipes, bottles, and extra clothes, we’ll make it easier for you to hit the road with your baby all prepped and ready with the essentials!
10 Essential Items To Pack in Your Diaper Bag
No doubt, diapers, and wipes are a total no-brainer and should take up the bulk of the space in your bag. But it's worth considering loading up your diaper bag with a few extras, like a spare onesie, a toy to keep your baby occupied, and even a water bottle to stay hydrated!
Depending on your baby’s age and your preference, these are a few must-haves for the diaper bag that you'll want to pack. Check out Banner Health’s checklist for every age, here!
Here's my general checklist so you don't miss a beat:
What to Pack in Your Diaper Bag
1. Bring diapers and wipes
Moms, whenever you and your little one are heading out, grab an extra diaper before leaving. Depending on your baby's age, it's advisable to bring three to five diapers with you.
It’s super easy to pack cloth diapers and covers on the go. You just need a wet bag for the soiled diapers. I love including cloth wipes with Honest Company Bum Spray to use instead of disposable wipes.
I also like bringing some disposable wipes like doTERRA’s On Guard sanitizing wipes. Whether it's cleaning a baby changing station or wiping baby’s hands and knees after a messy play session, wipes are the perfect solution!
2. Consider packing poop bags
Ah, the joys of parenting: from the sweet cuddles to the less-than-sweet smell of a diaper change on the go.
Don't be that person with a stinky diaper in hand!
Why are poop bags essential to pack in your diaper bag?
Pack poop bags infused with baking soda to neutralize odors and keep your secret safe. They're strong enough to hold up to the toughest diapers, so you can carry a wet one home with you.
3. Don’t forget the diaper cream
Moms, diaper cream is an absolute essential for your diaper bag! Not only can it help prevent diaper rash, but it can also be used for other purposes. For instance, it's great on dry skin, rash, scrapes, and windburn.
Smooth it on your little one’s delicate skin to help treat, soothe, and prevent diaper rash. It is a blend of essential oils and rich Muyao shea butter that not only helps prevent diaper rash but also moisturizes my baby’s skin.
4. Be ready with a spare set of clothes
No matter how vigilant you are, at some point, your little one is going to have a spit up or diaper blowout.
As a mom, it's important to be prepared for such occasions! Have a spare onesie or a handy outfit that you can quickly switch out when disaster strikes. Remember to switch out your spare outfit when the season changes, and opt for an outfit with long sleeves for extra warmth during colder months.
5. Throw in a swaddle blanket in your diaper bag
One item you may want to keep in your diaper bag is a swaddle blanket.
Not just for swaddling a baby, swaddle blankets provide multiple uses, such as a light blanket for unexpected cold weather, a cover for breastfeeding, a changing pad, a blanket for benches or the ground, and a burp cloth.
Swaddle blankets are so versatile, multi-functional, and a must-have for any mom on the go!
6. Don’t leave your breastfeeding essentials
Breastfeeding is a wonderful experience, but it can be daunting to go out with a baby in tow. If you’re a breastfeeding mom, you’ll need to make sure that you have all the must-haves for nursing on the go.
Pack a portable breast pump if needed, nursing pads, and a nursing cover to make your life easier!
7. Make sure your diaper bag has snacks
Do you dread reaching into your diaper bag and realizing you don't have any snacks to fuel your kid? It's happened to us all at least once.
A lack of stocked snacks can mean a detour to the drive-through or convenience store, where healthy choices are limited and expensive. Instead, save time, money, and sanity by packing your snacks!
If you want to know my favorite healthy snacks to take on the go, I will create a list for that, too!
8. Keep your baby entertained with toys
When loading up your diaper bag, don’t forget to include small toys that will keep your little one engaged and entertained!
Pack light when you head out to brunch with your baby: ditch the bulky toys in favor of more portable and entertaining options. Not only will they take up less space, but they'll also be easier to keep your eye on.
Select a stationary toy that will keep your little one engaged and on the table – so you can enjoy your meal sans the constant toy-picking!
9. Save the day with a packed first aid kit
Diaper bags can get heavy pretty fast. But it's important to have all the essentials, including a first aid kit.
Look for a first aid kit that is compact, but still has all the necessities you need. This will help you be prepared for any bumps, bruises, or scrapes that your little one may encounter while out and about.
Double-check the directions and ask your pediatrician before giving any ointments or over-the-counter medicines to your baby.
Pack any medications that you need for yourself, too! That way, if you're feeling under the weather, you'll have what you need right there with you.
10. Secure your own must-haves in the bag
Diaper bags are a mom's best friend when it comes to being organized and light on your feet — all your baby's needs are taken care of, plus they now come with pockets specifically designed for your essentials like wallet, phone, and keys. This allows you to leave your regular handbag at home!
When packing for yourself, don’t forget to add a water bottle to keep you hydrated throughout the trip. If you’re nursing, it’s a good idea to bring an extra top for yourself in case of any leaking.
After an outing, take the time to clean out your diaper bag and restock it with the items you used or are running low on. That way, when it’s time to leave the house the next day, you won’t be stuck racing around trying to grab everything you need.
Don't forget to update the items in your bag seasonally, too! Add mittens for the winter or sunscreen for summer.
I hope this checklist helped you be prepared when you need to head out the door with your baby, and if you need more #momhacks, drop a message here or connect with me on (approved platforms).
Check out my other posts for Cloth Diapering Guide: