Make sure you have a diaper bag that is not only stylish, but versatile. That means pockets, people! Also consider investing in a diaper bag organizer. They are awesome because you don't have to empty the contents of your diaper bag in the middle of the mall to soothe your screaming baby. Been there. Not fun.
First, diapering:
> 6-7 diapers per child
> wipes (as many as fit in your case, you will use them for everything)
> travel size bum cream (Sudocream or Penaten or whatever you prefer)
> folding change pad
> baggies for dirty diapers
> q-tips (if you use them)
Clothes:
> one extra outfit
> a sleeper if you will be out in the evening
> two pairs socks (one if the
Little one isn't walking yet)
> shoes for walkers
> hat (sunhat for summer, warmer hat for winter)
> a sweater in case it gets chilly
> a swimsuit (only during warm months)
Baby first aid:
> baby tylenol
> sunscreen (for summer)
> lotion in case of dry skin
Food:
(Only use what is applicable)
> enough bottles and formula for your time out
> sippy cup of juice
> two jars of food
> two spoons
> small snacks (puffs, rice crackers, etc)
> cheese or fruit for toddler
> bibs (2-3)
Everything else:
> a mommy hook
> receiving blankets (2-3)
> a lighter blanket and a warm blanket (doubles as car seat cover)
> an extra soother (just do it, you will be thankful)
> a toy if the baby is old enough
> crayons and a colouring book for a toddler
> nursing cover if breastfeeding
Now I try to carry a small purse (with a shoulder strap) in addition to my diaper bag for all of my stuff, because I have two kids under two so the diaper bag is stuffed pretty full at the moment. But I used to have a small clutch purse that I just tossed in the diaper bag.
I also keep a second, smaller diaper bag. In case of a quick trip to the grocery store, I just grab the small bag.
In this I keep:
> two diapers per child
> small travel case of wipes
> travel change pad
> baggies for dirty diapers
> a sippy cup for my toddler
> a folding reusable shopping bag
> light blanket
Hope this helps you out!
God bless.
- M
