How to Pack a Diaper Bag Like a Pro: From Your Homesteading Doula.

Feeling unsure about how to pack a diaper bag? Not sure what to pack?

Packing a diaper bag can sometimes feel like preparing for an expedition, especially for first-time parents. You want to be prepared for every possible scenario, but you also don’t want to overpack and end up with a heavy bag that’s hard to carry. The key is balance: packing what you need without going overboard.

A few years ago, I headed to Walmart with a little one I was babysitting. He was wearing a cloth diaper. I was great with this as my children wore cloth a lot of the time. The problem was discovered tho when I went to take him out of his car seat and his pants were soaking wet. I could find extra diapers in my diaper bag but no extra shorts. Now what? Well, dry diaper, and I didn't have much of a choice. Thankfully it was hot outside. I put him in the cart right in the parking lot and laid a blanket over his lap. In we went. The first thing we did was buy a new pair of shorts and get them on him. Then shopped like nothing had ever happened. There are bumps in our days, take them as they come. And it never hurt to have an extra outfit in the car in case your diaper bag fails to get refilled.  

To help you pack your diaper bag like a pro, here’s a simple guide with essential items and some packing tips for an organized, stress-free outing with your little one.

💛1. Diapers  

The most obvious item! You’ll want to pack enough diapers for your outing, plus a few extras, just in case. A good rule of thumb is to bring one diaper for every two hours you expect to be away from home. For a half-day trip, pack at least 3-4 diapers. For longer outings, aim for 6-8. Keep them easily accessible by placing them in a compartment near the top or on the outside of the bag.

💛2. Wipes  

Diaper changes can get messy, and baby wipes are essential for more than just diapering—they’re great for wiping hands, cleaning up spills, and even wiping down public surfaces. Keep a full pack of wipes in your bag, or use a travel-sized case to save space. If you're worried about leaks, consider packing them in a resealable plastic bag for extra protection.

💛3. Changing Pad  

Many diaper bags come with a built-in changing pad, but if yours doesn’t, or if it’s not as padded as you'd like, it's a good idea to pack a small, portable one. This provides a clean, soft surface to change your baby wherever you are. Plus, it helps protect against germs on public changing tables.

💛 4. Extra Clothes for Baby  

Spills, blowouts, and accidents are part of the parenting experience. Always have an extra outfit for your baby, including a onesie, socks, and even a lightweight jacket or sweater, depending on the weather. You’ll want to pack one extra set of clothes for every few hours you're out, especially if your baby is prone to accidents.

💛 5. Plastic Bags or Wet Bags  

Packing a few disposable or reusable plastic bags is a must. You’ll need them for soiled clothes, used diapers, and anything that needs to be kept separate from the rest of the contents in your bag. Wet bags are especially great for this—they are waterproof and can be reused after washing.

💛 6. Feeding Supplies  

Depending on your baby’s feeding routine, you’ll need to pack appropriate items:

   🤱For breastfed babies: If you’re nursing, a cover-up or shawl can provide some privacy. You may also want a portable nursing pillow for comfort if you’re planning to breastfeed while out.

   🍼 For formula-fed babies: Bring pre-measured formula in individual containers or a ready-to-feed bottle. Don’t forget a bottle of water for mixing and sterilizing bottles.

For older babies or toddlers: Pack snacks, sippy cups, or any favorite food items. It’s always good to have some easy-to-eat options like puffs, crackers, or fruit in a container to keep your baby happy during long waits.

💛7. Pacifiers and Teething Toys  

If your baby uses a pacifier, pack an extra one or two, along with a clean case to keep them sanitized. For teething babies, consider packing a few soft, BPA-free teething rings or toys that can help soothe sore gums.

💛8. Tissues, Hand Sanitizer, and Baby Lotion  

When you're out and about, access to clean water might be limited. Having a small bottle of hand sanitizer is a lifesaver to keep your hands clean before and after feeding or diaper changes. Tissues and baby lotion are also great for quick clean-ups or moisturizing dry skin, especially in colder weather.

💛 9. **Comfort Item or Favorite Toy**  

If your baby has a favorite blanket, toy, or stuffed animal, don’t forget to pack it! Comfort items can help keep your baby calm and entertained, especially during long outings or trips. A favorite toy or book can also keep your little one occupied while waiting in lines or during downtime.

💛 10. **Extra Items for Parents**  

It’s easy to forget about your own needs when packing for your baby, but don’t leave the house without a few essentials for yourself:

   - A bottle of water to stay hydrated

   - Your wallet, phone, and keys

   - Any medications or personal items you may need

   - Snacks or a protein bar, especially if you’re on the go for an extended period

Tips for Packing the Perfect Diaper Bag:

- Organize by Compartments: Use the different pockets of your diaper bag to keep things organized and easy to access. Designate a specific section for diapers, wipes, bottles, and snacks. You can even use small pouches or ziplock bags to keep smaller items together.

- Keep It Light: While it’s tempting to pack everything you think you might need, remember that you don't need to carry your entire home in your diaper bag. Focus on essentials and only pack the items that are necessary for your trip.

- Prepare for the Unexpected: No matter how prepared you are, babies are unpredictable. Always be ready for anything—whether that’s a surprise diaper blowout or a spill that soaks through their clothes. Extra clothes and cleaning supplies will be your lifesaver.

- Practice Accessibility: When packing, think about accessibility. You’ll want to be able to grab items quickly, especially when you’re in a hurry or juggling a fussy baby. Place items you’ll need most frequently (like diapers and wipes) at the top or in easily accessible pockets.

Packing a diaper bag doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little preparation and a thoughtful approach, you can ensure that you have everything you need for a successful outing with your baby. By packing essential items like diapers, wipes, feeding supplies, and extra clothes, while also keeping your bag organized, you’ll be ready for whatever the day throws at you. The more you practice, the more confident you'll become in managing your diaper bag like a pro!