I’ve done endless research and lived it twice. This is the ultimate list of the best things for your bag.
I am in the camp of less is more when it comes to your diaper bag. Narrowing down on the essentials and spreading the bulkier and heavier items to other places is key. First things first, finding your bag. I spent a ton of time researching all the best bags for mom, trying to decide if a backpack was most convenient (hello two hands!), if utility was key (who cares what it looks like) or if I wanted to conceal the fact I was toting around baby stuff. In the end, I decided I wanted to feel like myself, and not like the equipment manager for my family.
I also wanted to make a bit of an investment, but I wanted it to last beyond the relatively brief period of baby. So, in the end, the best decision for me was the ToteSavvy insert, which can go into any tote bag you choose, I chose the Louis Vuitton Neverfull GM.
Now that we got the bag/insert figured out it is time to fight past the fluff and solve the question, “what do I actually need?” and how do I keep this bag from getting too heavy? That’s what I’m here to work through for you. Find the items you absolutely love and will use. You don’t need to be prepared for anything, you just need to be able to keep baby comfortable and get back home.
Now for your packing list. Here’s what you need.
Diapers, of course. Coterie diapers are supreme. Make sure you have enough and then an extra to get you through your trip, I always try to keep 4 diapers in my bag. I also maintain a trunk changing station (see that post here); it’s one of my top suggestions for new moms. You’re also going to need dirty diaper bags, I like the Ubbi bags that are kept in a convenient dispenser (ditch the rubber strap), and fits perfectly in the insert’s small pocket. The bag organizer has a built in changing mat, which is great. For wipes, I love this hard holder and these wipes for cleanup as well as a pack of Coterie’s travel pack wipes for diaper changes. In my house, we use Water Wipes on the face and hands (with food) and Coterie wipes for diaper changes. I love how convenient their travel packs are to grab and go. Lastly, for changing gear, a good hand sanitizer, this Paume one is so lux and doesn’t rip your hands up, we have it at every changing station.
For the essentials, I’ll run you through the products I don't leave the house without. These live together in one of the large pockets in the organizer. The GOAT of any diaper bag is Miss Mouth’s stain spray, this stuff is actual magic. For the newborn stage, I always carry a travel size Baby Aqaphor and bum applicator. As well as a travel lotion (especially in winter) and sunscreen, I love SuperGoop’s Sunnyscreen. I also love this picker.
Other gadgets that I like to carry include the Hatch Rest Go which clips perfectly on to the little key hook on the organizer. This fan, which also fits perfectly in one of the small pockets and, if you need to feed on the go, this is the greatest mini bottle warmer.
Last but not least, things to keep baby comfy. All of this squeezes into the large outer pocket, if you’re using the tote organizer. This bundle is a must, it’s the perfect set to keep with you and so soft. It covers a change of clothes, a hat/mittens, and the softest blanket/swaddle. (Fun fact, both of my babies almost exclusively wore Lou Lou & Company for their first 6 months of life). Throw in a burp cloth (loved these), a multi-use cover, and a wet bag, trust me. Then, baby gets a toy, this I changed out at different phases - something soft and sweet, a rattle, something to chew, cute links, the classic, and the ultimate distractor.
Last, but not least, we need a pacifier. There’s one more small pocket left that fits this holder. BIBS were the best pacis for my girls, lightweight and easy to keep in baby’s mouth. And these pacifier wipes will save you at the most stressful times, be sure to get them.
When baby turns to toddler, the large pocket changes from this set of comfy stuff, to the best foldable potty seat.
