When you have small children, it feels like an entire chore just to get out of the house. Sometimes it’s like packing for a short vacation or out-of-town trip. But do you really need everything you’ve been packing, and is there anything you're missing? Of course, necessities like diapers and wipes are a given, but what else should you pack? It sounds like a diaper bag checklist might be just what you need.
What to pack in your diaper bag: The basics
The best types of diaper bags
When you’re considering the best diaper bag for you, what are you looking for? Regardless if it’s a backpack bag, a messenger bag, or a more traditional style, here are a few features the best diaper bags will have.
Easy to clean
No matter how clean you try to keep it, your diaper bag is bound to need a good clean now and again. Try to get it in an easy-to-clean material like polyester, nylon, or even leather.
Pockets and storage compartments
With all the different items on your diaper bag checklist, you’ll need plenty of storage space. Side pockets and dividers in the bag will make it easy to stay organized and give you easy access to all your items.
Diaper pad included
A foldout diaper pad will ensure you always have something clean to change your baby on.
Comfortable
Since you’re going to be carrying your bag everywhere you go, make sure it's comfortable for you to lug around. When you pack too much, it could weigh you down. “Although it's tempting to bring every possible baby care item with you in your diaper bag backpack, less is more,” pediatrician Whitney Casares, MD, MPH, told VeryWell Family.
