What to Pack in a Diaper Bag: The Ultimate Quick and Easy Guide

Got a baby? Then you’re definitely going to need to learn how to pack a diaper bag.

And while, after five kids, my own diaper bag may primarily consist of decade-old crumbs, diapers in every size assortment, and years worth of half-used chapstick, I’m here to assure you that there are better ways to pack a diaper bag. Truly Mama’s Jillian Robinson, a first-time mom of one son, breaks down what she packs in her diaper bag, so let’s take a peek inside:

Skip Hop Forma Backpack Diaper Bag

First things first, you need the right diaper bag. Jillian swears by the Skip Hop backpack diaper bag because it’s the perfect size to pack all the essentials, comes with tons of compartments, and it’s own changing pad–and it’s easy to sling over your shoulder when you’re on-the-go. “We absolutely love it,” Jillian says. And can you beat being hands-free with a baby and later, a toddler? Didn’t think so.

Dr. Browns Options Bottles

As a bottle-feeding mom, Jillian chooses the Dr. Browns’ bottles for her baby, a decision I absolutely agree with. Dr. Brown’s bottles are hands-down the best and they have so many different types that it’s easy to find the right bottle for you. Personally, I love the glass bottles for my baby since I try to be plastic-free as much as possible.

Dr. Browns Options Travel Bottle Caps

This genius tip comes from Jillian and it’s a good one: you can purchase these travel bottle caps separately from Dr. Brown and prepare any bottles with milk or water ahead of time, then affix a cap so it won’t spill. Total lifesaver.

Skip Hop Grab & Go Bottle Bag

A small, portable cooler is a must for all moms who are taking breast milk or formula with them or may be pumping on the go too.

Podee Bottle

Jillian is a fan of the Podee bottle, which is a little-known secret for a lot of moms. If you’re ever in a situation where your bottle-fed baby needs to be fed and you can’t feed him yourself, this gadget comes to the rescue. It’s a regular bottle, but has a long tube attached to just the bottle top so it allows even small infants to self-feed. However, be sure it’s only used under supervision, of course.

Aleva Naturals Pacifier Toy Wipes

“These are a great way to sanitize on the go,” Jillian comments. And in today’s world, has that ever been so important?

Hand Sanitizer

And speaking of sanitizing, you gotta have the hand sanitizer these days. We love Hilary Duff’s Happy Little Camper’s hand sanitizer because it’s non-toxic and has a lockable dispenser. And don’t forget the extra masks!

Little Remedies Saline Nasal Drops

For babies who can’t blow their own noses yet--“This is a great way to loosen up the boogies!” says Jillian.

Newborn baby (girl) clothes and accessories on blue background. Knolling style.

A Spare Outfit

Jillian keeps a spare change of clothes, bib, socks, and a burp cloth in a Ziploc bag for emergencies. Super smart. She also keeps extra fresh plastic bags, which come in handy for a whole range of functions, from stashing dirty clothes and diapers to holding snacks.

Avent Formula Dispenser

This formula dispenser is handy because it can be used to stash snacks as your baby grows. The spout fits perfectly into a bottle of water and adds pre-measured formula for a bottle ready-to-go.

Munchkin Miracle 360 Cup

No spills, no problem. You can have this cup filled with water and ready go, then just throw it in the diaper bag without worry.

Aden + Anais 4 Pack Muslin Swaddles

“I can not recommend these enough,” says Jillian. She always keeps a swaddle or two in the diaper bag, even though her son is past the swaddling age, because they’re soft and breathable, yet still keep him warm. “It’s great for him to get cozy with one of these if he gets tired.”