5 Things Every Diaper Bag Needs

Diapers, wipes, changing pad – you know the obvious things every diaper bag needs! Those are the essentials I grab when we are heading out the door. Lately though, I have found myself adding a few more creative things to make the day a lot easier!

Over the years, I have slowly been transitioning: first, in taking along enough for a week-long vacation with our oldest (just in case, you know, we have five blowouts or something!); then, to being a minimalist, with enough for only a few hours; and now a balance somewhere in-between. You have to find that sweet spot -not so much that not even big, strong Dad wants to carry the bag around BUT not so little that the bag goes flying away with the first sign of wind!

5 Things in Our Diaper Bag

1. A favorite teething toy.

Our daughter has a beloved little white and pink polka dot teething toy we nicknamed “Ellie.” It comes everywhere with us now! The familiar scent helps calm her down in unfamiliar places too. Another favorite is the sweet ducky pictured. It was actually from the pet section, but it has a better squeak than a lot of baby toys, and our little girl loves the feel of it! You know you’re a parent when you don’t think twice about something different because, well, your kids love it and are happy. Can you ask for anything more?! I think not!

2. Individual-size snacks. 

You never know when hunger will strike for the kids(or yourself), and it’s nice to not have big bags taking up space or spilling all over! We are loving Gerber Lil’ Bits lately. The convenient travel packaging and yummy flavors that encourage first bites means this item always makes it into the bag!

3. A favorite magazine for mom.

Sometimes, I sit down with a treat for the kids and a drink for myself to write down my shopping list. If the kids are entertained, I’ll enjoy a few minutes of reading. You never quite know when you will get that minute of free time, so plan ahead, just in case.

4. A pretty wrap or ring-sling. 

I found mine at a local consignment store and just fell in love. It’s handy for the days when she does not want to sit in the cart. It leaves my hands free, keeps her close to Mommy, and fits in my bag easily!

5. An emergency kit. With coffee.

 A coffee gift card that is! I like to keep a bag of sample size first aid supplies as well as a loaded coffee card. Because it always stays with us in the diaper bag, it’s handy when I have one of those early mornings that I need it. Other great things to include in the emergency kit are phone numbers (in case your phone battery dies), a few dollars in cash, and extra keys to your house and vehicles. That way you are all set should lockout or forgotten wallet occur (not that I would know about this or anything!)

These really do deserve an extra mention! We tested out the Apple Blueberry in our last post, The Easiest Way to Transition to Table Food, and that was a huge hit! I thought I might add some to the diaper bag for our daughter to try. Next flavor up: Sweet Potato Apple Carrot & Cinnamon. The verdict?

She loved them! Gerber 3rd Foods are specifically made to help with learning to chew. The perfectly soft chunks were just right to encourage early chewing and a love for more solid food later! She normally has a dislike for different textures, but these Gerber Lil’ Bits were just the right thing!

Well she polished that off! I guess I need to restock it now so we aren’t stuck the next time hunger strikes! What do you add to your diaper bag that is a must-have? We love new ideas too!

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Gerber 3rd Foods Lil Bits Recipes help babies learn to chew and ease the transition to table food.

 

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