Having an organized diaper bag is a start to a successful outing with your baby.

First, choose a diaper bag that fits your style and life style. It should have room for baby’s things as well as mommy things such as I- Pad, cell phone, wallet, small pouch for lip gloss and keys. Some of our favorite bags come with coordinating accessories such as a changing pad, small zipped pouch for mom, bottle holder and organizational systems. It is easier to carry one bag for both you and your baby then try to carry a diaper bag, your bag and baby! An additional feature that is very popular today in a diaper bag is the ability to attach you bag to the stroller.

Secondly, having a well packed diaper bag can help to make your outing with your baby stress free. Below we have listed what we think are the essentials to have in your diaper bag:

• Diapers – The amount of diapers to carry will vary on your baby’s age and the length of your outing. As a rule of thumb, one diaper per hour when they are infants plus and extra 1 or 2 for the unexpected happenings.
• Wipes – Wipes are not only used for diaper changing. They are great for cleaning little faces and hands and cleaning up messes. It is ideal to have a travel packet size of wipes in your bag or put a bunch in a sealed plastic bag.
• Toys – It is fun for your baby/child to have some toys that they play with only when they are out and about with you. 
• Ziploc Bags – great to put a dirty diaper or soiled clothing in.
• Baby Blanket – It is a good idea to have a blanket in your bag to keep your baby warm when the temperature changes, when nursing your baby and in the summer when the air conditioning can be too much for baby.
• Food – Depending on your baby’s age you will need bottles, extra formula, baby food and feeding spoon, and snacks. Also, a snack holder such as, Pack- In Smart, helps to keep your diaper bag crumb free.
• Clothes – It is always safe to have an extra outfit in your bag for the unexpected happenings.
• Changing Pad – You never know where you are going to have to change your baby when you are out in public places. It is important to have a changing pad and a burp cloth to layer the surface if it is hard. Many of the popular diaper bags include coordinating accessories such as a changing pad.
• Diaper Cream – It is always good to have diaper cream on hand for the unexpected rash to keep your baby comfortable.