There are the “givens” for any diaper bag: diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream, and hand sanitizer. I’ve found there are a few other items that have helped both Joey and I get through the short and long road-trips away from the comforts of home.
1. Food for Baby: An extra bottle of formula or breastmilk is a must when you leave home. I’ve found that Joey’s typical hunger routine hits a road-bump whenever he’s watching someone else eating! So, if we are out to dinner, we better have a bottle for the hungry baby. The same goes for solid foods. Now that Joey is eating more solids, I bring squeeze pouches, bananas, or avocados for him to munch on. Note: no refrigeration necessary.
2. Food for Mom: It’s tiring carrying a little one and big diaper bag around, especially if you are running a bunch of errands. Bring some hand-held snacks for you too! My favorites include bottled water, almonds, and protein bars.
3. Disposable Changing Pads: These are great not only for using on changing tables in public restrooms, but for placing on the ground if your diaper bag has to hit a bathroom floor or other not-so-clean surface, such as an airplane floor. I’ve used this brand, which I purchased from Amazon.
4. Disposable Placemats: Just like the changing pads, these are great for quick, sanitary use while dining out. I remember vividly the first time a girlfriend of mine offered one for Joey to use while we were out to lunch. I told her no, that he wasn’t eating table food so he didn’t need it. Right when the words came out of my mouth, Joey’s mouth had found the end of the table! Needless to say I came home and bought a 90-pack of these.
5. Hand-Held Toys: It’s easy to over-pack toys. I remember our first trip out of town; it looked like I was packing for a family of 6 vs. a family of 3. I’ve found that the best toys are one’s that Joey can easily hold in his hands, shake, and put in his mouth. These toys are good for the car, church pew, or dinner table.
How about you? What’s inside your diaper bag?
