Diaper Bag Essentials

Try this can’t-miss kit for traveling babies

Your days of packing light are over. No matter where you are going, you’ll need the following diaper bag items handy and accessible, (ie. not in the car trunk or cargo hold):

• An extra outfit or two for the baby – think comfort and washability over cute and fashionable.
• Some zip-lock bags to contain soiled diapers and clothing.
• A zip-lock bag with a cool wet washcloth for messes and soothing.
• A receiving blanket or two – these multi-purpose wonders can be used as a light blanket, shade canopy, clothes protector, nursing drape, diaper change pad, spit-up catcher, a clean place to lie on the floor, not to mention a great peek-a-boo prop.
• Hand sanitizer – helpful for when you can’t properly wash your hands before a feed or after a diaper change.
• Baby wipes – beyond their original purpose, these can be used for hands, faces, spills and more.
• Sample sizes of any creams, lotions and ointments you may use.
• At least two pacifiers/soothers/dummies if you use them – these tend to go missing or drop on the floor more often than most objects.
• If you’re formula feeding, pre-measured powder and bottles of water, ready for mixing.
• Any medications or first-aide items you may want on hand – remember, most over the counter medications such as baby ibuprofen, acetaminophen or antihistamines should not be administered without a doctor’s approval and dosage guidance.
• Don’t forget to leave room for diapers!