Diaper Bag Essentials: What to Pack in a Diaper Bag

Before heading out the house, you want to make sure you have everything your baby will need throughout the day. Whether you’re taking your little one for a checkup or visiting Grandma, here’s a list of essentials you need to keep your baby clean, dry, and happy. If you’re packing that bag for the first time, here’s a list of things you shouldn’t forget. 

Diapers

The first thing you need in your diaper backpack are diapers. Pack one for every two or three hours that you’ll be outside. Better yet, pack two more extras in case something comes up. 

Wipes

Wipes are your best friend. They make life easier for parents with a baby. However, make sure you choose wipes that won’t irritate your baby’s sensitive skin. Choose travel-sized options, so they’ll be portable and easy to bring wherever you go. 

Changing Pad

Some diaper bags have a changing pad, so you may want to check out that detail. If that’s not the case, you can always use a few disposable pads if you need to change your baby and there’s no changing pad in sight. 

Diaper Rash Cream 

You can use petroleum jelly or a barrier ointment to prevent your baby from getting diaper rash. Pack a travel-sized diaper rash cream into your bag so you’ll be ready in case a rash does happen, despite your best efforts. 

Hand Sanitizer

If you can’t wash your hands, use a hand sanitizer before and after you change your baby’s diaper. Do that again before and after you feed your baby. 

Nursing Cover

You want that bit of privacy when it’s time to nurse, so a nursing cover is ideal. This is versatile, though, and you can use a light towel for this. You can put that towel over the stroller to add more sun protection for your baby. 

Burp Cloths

A burp cloth or two will help keep things tidy when it’s time to burp your baby. You can also use the burp cloths to wipe up spills or wipe your baby’s spit-up. 

Food, Snacks, and Water

Your backpack should always have food, snacks, and water for the baby. As your baby grows, you’ll need to switch to different snacks and food. Look for travel-friendly options so they can all fit into your backpack without any problems. 

Pacifier 

Does your baby use a pacifier? Keep it inside a resealable bag instead of dumping it with the rest of the items in the backpack. That will keep the pacifier clean. 

Waterproof Bag 

If you have soiled or wet clothing—you’ve got a baby, it happens—a waterproof bag comes in handy. 

Change of Clothes 

You may need to change your baby’s clothes for an overnight stay or when your little one poops. So, keeping a change of clothes in the bag is also a must. 

Nursing Pads

The pads help with breast milk leaks, so having a few of them in the bag is handy. Tuck them into the bag and you should be good to go.