Last Updated on December 10, 2024 by Corynn
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When becoming a parent for the first time, you want to make sure that you have everything on you anytime you go out with your baby.
From diapers, and bottles, to pacifiers. You always want to be prepared!
Down below we will break down all the diaper bag essentials you will need as first-time parents!
What Features Should I Look For In a Diaper Bag?
You’re going to be carrying a lot of items in your diaper bag. You want to look for a baby bag that has lots of compartments. Especially a compartment that is insulated for bottles.
“Do you need insulated pockets in diaper bag?”
To keep your bottles warm/cold you will 100% need insulated pockets in your diaper bag. If your diaper bag does not include insulated pockets you can purchase a separate insulated pouch
Another feature is having a diaper bag with a backpack design. Support for you and your partners back.
Diaper bag backpacks are great for traveling.
Here are a couple of diaper bags that I highly suggest for new parents
How Many Diapers Should You Have in Diaper Bag?
It depends on how long you will be out. If you are only going out to the store, 2-3 diapers is a normal amount to have.
If you will be out for the day. Pack enough diapers you would use within those hours. For example, if you will be at the grandparent’s house for 6 hours and typically use 5 diapers during that time. Pack 5-6 diapers with you.
Do Mom and Dad Each Need a Diaper Bag?
You can both use the same diaper bag. To make things complicated.
I highly suggest having a diaper and a small package of wipes inside the car just in case you forget the baby bag (this does happen!)
What do you need in a diaper bag for a newborn?
For a newborn, you will need a lot of items with you during the first few months of being a parent.
Here is a list of items you will need in your diaper bag;
1. Bottles
2. Portable Breast Pump
3. Burp Cloths
4. Extra Clothes (3-4 Outfits)
5. Pacifiers
6. Pacifier Case
7. Diapers
8. Wipes & Wipes Holder
9. Their Favourite Toy
10. Blankets
11. Receiving Cloths
12. Diaper Changing Mat
13. Bags To Put Dirty Diapers In (doggy bags are perfect for that!)
14. Wipes For Bottles and Pacifiers
15. Hats
16. Nursing Pads (if you are nursing)
17. Breast Milk Bags
18. Health Card & Documents Holder
To hold your baby’s health card and important documents.
When Should I Start Packing My Diaper Bag?
Before the baby comes you want to have the diaper bag packed around the same time you have your hospital bag prepped and packed.
After the baby is here, try to keep the diaper bag prepped at all times. This could be the morning of or even the night before. Make sure you always have wipes, diapers, and extra change of clothes at all times.
You don’t want to be out and you ran out of diapers and wipes.
Overall…
Having the essential items in your diaper bag will give you that extra boost of confidence when you are out with your new bundle of joy!