You learn quickly as a new parent that whether you plan on being out of the house for one hour or one day, you'll always need your diaper bag. The moment you think you can just run out to the grocery store — real quick — is the moment your new baby will have a massive blowout in their carseat. Listen, we don't make the rules . . . we just follow them. That being said, you don't need to overthink your diaper-bag situation. In fact, the key is to keep a few staples in your bag at all times, that way you're not constantly packing and repacking. Ahead are the 10 essentials to keep life on the go easy, even with a new baby.
Lorimer Diaper Bag
First order of business: ditch the cumbersome (albeit pretty) tote bag. The Lorimer Diaper Bag ($198) is the perfect weight and size for your baby "bug-out bag." The nylon material means it's easy to keep clean, and the multiple compartments mean you'll stay organized.
Pampers Swaddlers Diapers
Diapers for your diaper bag should be your first priority, but not all diapers are created equal. Pampers Swaddlers Diapers ($10) are the default in our household because we know they are reliable and I don't have to worry about baby getting wet and uncomfortable while on long car rides. I always keep our diaper bag stocked with twice as many diapers as I think I'm going to need and a pack of Pampers Sensitive Wipes ($20) for quick and easy diaper changes.
Munchkin Arm & Hammer Disposable Changing Pads
Speaking of on-the-move diaper changes, have you seen a public restroom lately? No way is anything that touches those surfaces coming back home with me. The best travel tip for new parents is to keep a pack of Munchkin Arm & Hammer Disposable Changing Pads ($7) for emergencies. You can lay one down on the changing table in a bathroom, then immediately toss it in the trash. No germs here, thank you very much.
Gerber Baby Long Sleeve Onesies
It's inevitable that at some point, your baby is either going to spit up on and/or poop through the adorable outfit you spent time and energy picking out for them. You won't have to sweat it if you keep a few extra Gerber Baby Long Sleeve Onesies ($8) in your diaper bag just in case. Pro tip: if something happens to one of these while traveling, just toss it. No one wants to dig around dirty onesies while on a flight.
Fisher-Price Pizza Slice Teether
Whether your baby is teething or just needs a distraction, it's always a smart idea to keep a little toy in your diaper bag for emergencies. This Fisher-Price Pizza Slice Teether ($6) is perfect because it is lightweight and doesn't require batteries.
Boon, NURSH Reusable Silicone Pouch Bottle
If your baby is feeding out of a bottle, you'll need to pack one or two of these for days on the go. The Boon, NURSH Reusable Silicone Pouch Bottle ($25 for three) is silicone and can be compressed so it takes up less space.
Portable Bottle Warmer Pro
Speaking of bottle-fed babies, have you ever tried heating up a bottle in a restaurant or on the sidelines of a soccer game? It's basically impossible. The Portable Bottle Warmer Pro ($75) can be used with any wide-neck bottle and will warm the contents in five to 10 minutes. Perfect for breast milk or formula!
Munchkin Arm & Hammer Pacifier Wipes
It's a tale as old as time. Baby has something in hand or mouth, baby will drop said thing on a dirty restaurant floor or muddy street. Keep these Munchkin Arm & Hammer Pacifier Wipes ($4) for occasions where the five-second rule just won't fly.
NUK Comfy Orthodontic Pacifiers
Never get caught without a binky! These NUK Comfy Orthodontic Pacifiers ($9) come in a set of five so you can toss a few in your diaper bag for any and every occasion.
Fridababy Baby Basics Kit
Last but not least, the Fridababy Baby Basics Kit ($40) comes with all the random things you never knew you'd need until you really need them.
