What's in My Diaper Bag

As a mom of two little ones under two years old, I am pretty much never without my diaper bag. It’s kind of my lifeline, especially while on the go with my two crazy kids! With my first, I always carried around far more than I ever needed or used, and now that I have two I have learned the valuable lesson that less is more. My arm certainly thanks me for that one, as that bag can get heavy! Something that I always keep in mind is to be efficient and only pack what I absolutely need. And that’s what I’m sharing with you today! What’s in my diaper bag, as a mom of two. Let’s see, shall we?

Diapers and Wipes

This is a no-brainer. I mean, it is called a diaper bag for a reason! Never ever leave the house without a couple diapers and a pack of wipes (which, by the way, serve way many more purposes than simply diaper changes. Wipe hands, clean sticky surfaces, get makeup off of clothes, the possibilities are endless!).

Hand Sanitizer

Because the world is dirty, and little fingers are always going into mouths! It’s become a habit to always hand sanitize before eating any snacks on the go or right when we leave the playground. Sometimes you just can’t get to a sink to wash your hands, so this comes in very… well… handy!

Teether

Because babies are pretty much constantly teething, from the age of 4 months to 2 years. Teethers are a must to relieve those gums and soothe the crying! They also serve as a toy to keep your baby entertained wherever you may be.

Sunscreen

During the summer months, especially, when we’re always out somewhere enjoying the sun, sunscreen is an absolute must! I will never be caught without it, and I’m kind of annoying with my insistence on reapplying. That baby skin is too sensitive and perfect not to protect! Consult your doctor about when it is appropriate to start using sunscreen on your baby.

Baby Wrap

With a toddler and baby, especially, a wrap is a must for me! Baby wearing promotes bonding, allows me to be hands-free while keeping my baby close and it calms a fussy little one. It’s even been known to put her to sleep! Everybody wins!

Sunglasses

Something for mama. Because you’d better believe I have not lost my style to motherhood! Along the same lines, I always have a compact mirror, some chapstick and a snack for myself. Because this is a diaper bag, but it also doubles as my purse. It’s also where I stash my wallet, keys and other essentials. See? The babies haven’t completely taken over my life! Ha!

Pacifier and Clip

If your baby takes a pacifier, you know you should never leave the house without one! I am a big fan of pacifier clips, because we all know how easy it is to lose pacifiers (the horror!) and they also prevent them from dropping on the ground and getting dirty. Plus, they are so cute!

Swaddle and/or Burp Cloth

I always have a lightweight swaddle with me, as it serves so many purposes! I use it as a blanket, swaddle, nursing cover, sunshade, burp cloth, the list goes on! When I’m out and about and Baby gets hungry, I just whip out the swaddle blanket and it’s an instant cover for nursing discreetly! I love the muslin blankets best, as they are lightweight – just perfect for summer! And if I happen to forget my burp cloth, no worries, as it doubles as one of those, too.

Sippy Cup and Snacks

Because nobody likes a hangry toddler. Nobody. Some go-to snacks that I always pack in my bag are healthy snack bars, applesauce packets, and goldfish crackers for my toddler! Snacks that don’t spoil quickly are the best, as you don’t have to worry about stocking up with a handful of options for the week. I’m breastfeeding, so I am always hungry and need a quick pick-me-up frequently during the day. And yes, I’ve been known to sneak some of my toddler’s crackers for myself.

Phew! There you go! The essentials, really. What do you pack in your diaper bag?