Here’s what you need to pack for diaper bag 101!
Diaper Bag Essentials
• Diapers.
You’ll need one diaper for each 2 hours you’re out and possibly a few extras just to be sure.
• Wipes.
For those times when you don’t have access to a bathroom, wipes come in handy.
• A change of clothes.
If you’re headed somewhere where it might be hard to find clean clothing, bring something along.
• An emergency kit.
A must have for any type emergency medical condition.
Diaper Bag Add-ons
Some parents choose to carry just about everything they might need while out and about with their babies, including diapers, wipes, snacks, toys, blankets, sunblock, etc.
But what happens when your child gets hungry or tired, or there’s a sudden change in the weather?You’ve got to make sure you’re prepared.
Wipes
WaterWipes are hypoallergenic wipes that are safe on sensitive skin. They’re easy to use and store, too.
And best of all, they come in packages that can be sealed shut without tearing, making them perfect for travel.
But there are downsides, like the fact that they aren’t thick enough to wipe away makeup and mascara.
Poop Bags
Munchkin Arm and Hammer diaper bag dispenser is perfect for those times you forgot to grab one out of your diaper bag.

It holds up to six disposable diapers and features a built-in clip so it doesn’t fall off while you’re walking around.
Plus, it’s easy to use — no opening required. Just pull down the tab and push the button.
Diapers
You’ve probably already heard about DiaperGenius, the diaper subscription service that sends out free diapers every month.
Diaper Cream
Aquaphor baby healing ointment to go is a must-have product for every parent.

This versatile formula works well on everything from cuts and scrapes to diaper rashes and dry skin.
Its light texture and gentle scent makes it perfect for use around babies and toddlers too.
And since it contains no petroleum jelly, you won’t find sticky residue left behind.
Soft Blanket, Swaddle or Burp Cloth
A lot of people use swaddle blankets because they are super soft, cute, and easy to care for.
The Swaddle blanket ($25) is the most basic option. It features a hooded design and is machine washable.

It is great for newborns, since it doesn’t require much attention.
However, it is a little pricey compared to similar options.
Extra Toys for Baby
Baby gear doesn’t always come with age restrictions—and sometimes those restrictions are hard to enforce.
From Fisher-Price’s adorable seahorse to the soothing sound of the sea, here are some toys that are perfect for babies ages 0–3.
Breastfeeding or Pumping Supplies
If you’re breastfeeding or pumping, you’ll want to make sure you have everything you need.
You’ll definitely want to bring along some comfortable clothes and shoes, because many women find themselves spending hours every day sitting upright while feeding or pumping.
Also consider bringing along a few extra pairs of underwear, socks, bras and shirts.
A good pair of slippers can help keep your feet warm and dry during those chilly winter months.
You’ll also want to make sure you’ve got a supply of clean cloth diapers, wipes, bottles, pacifiers, bibs and burp rags.
And don’t forget about snacks and drinks. While you might be able to buy most of these items locally, there are times when you’ll need to travel farther than usual for local stores.
Lip Balm
The best lip balms are ones that won’t take up much space, moisturize well, and don’t taste terrible.
We’ve tested dozens over the years, and our current favorite is Burt’s Bees Lip Butter Stick ($5).
This stick contains beeswax, shea butter, vitamin E, and jojoba oil — ingredients that keep lips soft and protected without feeling greasy.
Plus, it doesn’t leave behind any sticky residue like some balms do.
5. Hand sanitizer
I’m always worried about germs and viruses, so I keep hand sanitizer everywhere. I’ve been known to use it in my car, bathroom, kitchen, etc. I even bring some home with me every night.
Water Bottle
The Yeti Rambler is a great way to keep drinks cold while traveling.
I love using this product because it keeps my beverages cold for up to 12 hours.
You can easily fit one into your car cup holder or even use it as a cooler.
9. Insulated bottle bag
If you’re planning to ever pack bottles full of breast milk, you’ll want to make sure they stay cold. A bottle bag helps ensure that they do.
An insulated bottle bag will do just fine. You can find them online for about $10-$20. They come with a small ice pack and some sort of strap to attach to your bag.
This is the one that I used in the past. It comes with a zipper pocket where you can store extra formula and wipes. It also has a separate compartment for storing bottles.
Check your bag before you buy, though. Some bags come with built-in insulation.
10. Burp cloth or small blanket.
Burp cloths are great for babies, but we’ve found that larger ones aren’t as effective. Instead, we like to use swaddles or receiving blankets that cover more area. They’re easier to clean up and don’t require you to cut off the ends every time you change a diaper.
11. Bottles with milk or formula.
Bottle nipples are one of those things that parents just don’t think about until it’s too late.
Formula and water go into separate compartments inside this bottle.
When mommy wants to give baby a drink, she simply opens up the compartment containing the formula, pours out the liquid, closes the lid, and shakes the bottle.
Then she gives her little one his dose of water. There’s no mess, no fuss, and no spillage.
12. Thermometer.
I don’t know about you, but I’m always paranoid about babies’ temperatures.
Little thermometer is a baby gift guide, I knew it had to make it into my diaper bag.
If I notice anything out of the ordinary, I’ll grab the thermometer and take it straight to the pediatrician.
And since it’s sitting next to my phone, I won’t forget to bring it along.
16. Band-Aids
Whether you’re covering up a scrape from a toddler taking a fall or covering a blister from wearing a pair of brand new shoes, having a few bandages is one of my diaper bag essentials.
I’ve got some favorites here at Diaper Bag Essentials HQ, including the ones that are super cute and super functional.
14. Sunscreen (+ Bug Spray).
Sunscreen + bug spray perfect for picnics and outdoor adventures.
Whether it’s a beach vacation, camping trip or just spending some quality time outdoors, throw in a small travel size container or sunscreen stick for when you stop along the way.
The best part about these items is that they are super compact and easy to carry around.
They’re great for taking on trips and keeping organized while you’re out and about.
9. Bottle + Formula (If Using Them).
Bottle feeding babies isn’t always easy. You might be wondering how much milk to feed your newborn, how often, and what type of bottles to use.
Here are some tips to make bottle feeding easier for both you and your little one.
- 1. Start out slow. Don’t try to do too much at once. Give him his first bottle around 4–6 weeks old. He’ll probably take about 2 ounces at first, and you can gradually increase the amount he gets each day.
- 2. Make sure you’re prepared. Have enough bottles ready to go, plus extras in case you accidentally spill or drop one. Also remember to bring along a nipple shield, a pacifier, and a clean cloth.
- 3. Go ahead and start now. Once you know you want to breastfeed, there’s no reason to wait. Breastfeeding takes practice, so why put off learning the basics? Plus, you won’t have to worry about sterilizing bottles later.
- 4. Don’t overdo it. Try to give your baby less than 8 ounces per bottle. This way, he won’t feel stuffed up and uncomfortable.
- 5. Use a pump. Pumping your breasts helps prevent engorgement and makes breastfeeding easier. A double electric pump is best because it allows you to switch sides without having to stop pumping. However, manual pumps work fine, too. Just make sure you wash your hands well before touching anything else.
- 6. Know your options. There are a variety of different types of nipples, including silicone, polypropylene, and even wooden ones. Some moms prefer one nipple shape over another, while others like to mix things up.
Easiest Diaper Bags To Organize.
Choosing the best diaper bag goes a long way toward keeping things organized.
There are plenty of options out there, ranging from lightweight totes to rugged duffels.
But what features make one diaper bag better than another? We rounded up 10 of the most popular diaper bags to help you find the perfect fit.
2. Skip Hop Grand Central.
Skip Hop Grand Central is one of the most popular diaper bags for parents because it offers plenty of space for everything you need while out and about with your little one.
- With six separate compartments, there are lots of places to stash diapers, wipes, bottles, snacks, toys, and even a changing pad.
- There are also two external zippers to keep things secure and organized.
- The main compartment has a clear wipe-able pocket to store dirty clothing, and there are two exterior pockets for storing bottles.
- An insulated bottle pocket keeps drinks cold, and a toy loop makes sure kids always have something fun to play with.
- The bag also features a removable shoulder strap and an easy-to-use carabiner clip to attach it to the stroller.
Diaper Bag FAQ.
1.What Do I Need in My Toddler’s Diaper Bag?
From diapers to wipes to snacks, it seems like there are always things we forget about when packing our diaper bag.
2.What Do I Need in My Newborn’s Diaper Bag?
Newborns are a lot like toddlers — they’re hungry, tired and messy most of the time.
They’re not much of a handful either; they just eat, sleep and poop. So what does a mom need to take along with her? Here’s what we’ve found works best for us.
Diapers
You’ll need enough diapers to cover your baby for one day, plus a couple extra ones to use as backups.
We suggest using disposables because cloth diapers aren’t easy to clean up.
And if you plan to breastfeed, it’s important to have plenty of wipes and nursing pads to keep you comfortable while feeding.
Change of Clothes
If you’re planning to breastfeed, you’ll probably need something to wear over your shirt.
If you’re bottle feeding, you might consider wearing a bra under your shirts.
3.Questions to ask when looking for a daycare
- 1. Will I need childcare while working?
- 2. Do I want someone else taking care of my kids while I work?
- 3. How much flexibility do I want?
- 4. What hours does the facility offer?
- 5. Does it provide transportation?
- 6. Is there extra curriculum offered?
- 7. Are there activities for children during the school week?
4.What should I pack in my diaper bag for the hospital?
The hospital will provide some things — like diapers, wipes, formula, bottles, etc. — if you want or need those items.
You don’t have to bring everything listed above, though. In fact, there’s no real reason to carry around the entire list.
5.What’s Inside My Diaper Bag – For Myself
I’m not one to travel light. I always make sure I have everything I need with me wherever I go.
If I don’t, I’ll end up getting lost somewhere along the way.
Here are some items I never leave home without.
- 1. Water Bottle
- 2. Phone Charger
- 3. Lip Balm
- 4. Hand Sanitizer
- 5. Bandaids
- 6. Sunscreen
I hope this guide was helpful!