How to Pack a Diaper Bag

By Naomi White

First on the check list is diapering and clothing. Following are item you should not forget: travel size container of diaper wipes, changing pad, 2 or 3 changes of clothing - depending upon how messy your baby is, hats which are appropriate for warmth or shade, 6-8 diapers this depends upon how long your outing will be, diaper rash ointment, baby powder, Ziplock bags for diaper disposal and soiled clothes

The next category would be anything having to do with feeding: if formula feeding you will need bottles, burp cloths, jars of baby food and spoons, 2-3 bibs, cans of formula or some containers of pre-measured formula, bottled water for you ( also for baby if using powdered or concentrated formula ), portable snacks for you and possibly your other children.

Keeping your baby happy and occupied is also important as well as keeping them quiet.. Here are some things you should not forget: pacifiers, if their teeth are coming in teething rings, 2 blankets, comfort toys, small durable books (board books are great).

Last but not least you need think about your baby's safety and be prepared for emergencies. So here are some things you should keep in your bag especially on long trips: band-aids, antibiotic ointment, tissues, fever reducer/pain reliever, hand sanitizer, cell phone, and sunblock.

Finally here are some diaper packing tips. Pack a lot of diapers. For every two hours you are out you should plan on having one diaper. Bring a few extra if your baby has diarrhea. If the weather is going to be cold then you should pack blanket either thick or thing depending on how cold it will be. You might want to pack an extra set of keys in your bag if you are the forgetful type. These could come in handy if your car automatically lock when then drivers door is shut. You may have had time to grab the diaper bag but not the baby. With that extra set of keys, you can still get the baby out.

If you have an allergic child, always have a liquid antihistamine in the diaper bag. If the allergies are severe, you may want to get a prescription for an Epi-pen so that it can be kept in the bag at all times.

For those special moments you should always keep a camera with you. If it is well protected then a regular camera might be ok. If you tend to have things spill in the diaper bag then it may be a good idea to get a disposable camera..

If you are feeding your baby formula you can now buy it in powdered form which is very convenient. Just measure the powdered amount of formula in an clean empty bottle, and then pack a few bottled waters and mix it with the formula when the baby is ready to eat.

There you have it. This is an excellent checklist to go by. Just make sure that you are organized enough to get everything together. This will ensure that your outing goes smoothly!

About the Author:

Naomi White is a mother of three and is a child care expert. She know a lot a bout fashion and how to select things that are fashionable as well as functional. Check out her site on diaper bags to find something to help you get organized.