The Only Things You'll Need
Extra Clothes
There are so many reasons—diaper blowouts, chief among them—to carry extra clothes for everyone:
"A change of baby clothes is an absolute must. If your kid throws up or spills, you'll be glad you had the extra outfit."
- Christina Simon
"Extra shirt for Mommy, in case Baby spits up on you. Nothing worse than smelling like spit-up all day."
– Jennifer Parsons
"Socks for every indoor play place, music and gym class."
- Robynn Molino
Muslin Blankets
The Swiss army knife of baby gear, these lightweight, breathable blankets are on many moms' list of essentials:
"I love muslin blankets for cuddling, covering Baby from sun, or to keep Baby warm."
- Melody Melvin
"We have about 12 of them. I've even used one as a towel."
- Jessica Copenhaver
Changing Pad
Not enough public restrooms are equipped with changing tables, so a mom needs a clean, soft place to lay baby down for diaper changes, even on the floor:
"A Patemm changing pad is a must-have. You can fill the pockets with diapers, wipes, plastic bag to put dirty diapers in, hand sanitizer. It unfolds into a large circle, so your baby isn't touching any part of a dirty changing table. It makes any bag a diaper bag!"
Hand Sanitizer
Almost every mom we surveyed stocks this item to keep fingers clean:
"I always pack hand sanitizer because there's not always soap and water nearby when I'm eating with my toddler who touches everything!"
– Michelle Oles
Snacks and Drinks
Unless you're exclusively breastfeeding a young baby, food and drink are high on the must-carry list:
"Our 19-month-old has an appetite like none I have ever seen before! Can't be away for more than an hour without a few standby munchies or meltdowns will be a given."
"I'd also say try to bring enough for another kid too since there is usually another mom who forgot something in her bag or her kid just wants what yours has."
– Christina Simon
"Ready-mix formula and an empty bottle."
- Nancy Shin
"Extra straws and utensils. It's amazing how many times we've eaten somewhere with the kids and there aren't utensils available to, say, cut up the hot dog they ordered."
Entertainment
For those times when a distraction can avert a meltdown, be ready to bring the fun:
"Bubbles! Can't tell you how many times they have gotten a fussy baby happy, and kids are just drawn to them. I've used them at the play areas and all the kids rush to me. Also, a light- up spinning toy from the drug store. The lights and vibrations are like baby crack."
"A board book."
- Christina Gaspar
"Lollipops for a last resort bribe."
- Melissa Madrid
