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Travel-Ready Diaper Bag

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Julia Rosien | 03/03/2008 - 12:46 | Add new comment

Diaper Bag Operating Instructions

Packing a diaper bag may sound like a no-brainer, but only if you've already paid your dues in Baby Boot Camp. A poorly designed one will make you wish you'd The Perfect Diaper BagThe Perfect Diaper Bagnever left home, and a hastily packed is grounds for a full-fledged melt-down.

Before you get the bag that will soon become your most valued accessory, decide how you'll use it. Are you a backpacker or fashionista? Will you take the bag everywhere you travel or do you need a second smaller bag for day trips while touring? Before you buy:

 

  • Put the bag on your shoulder and see how it feels.
  • Take it apart - pull out the pad, feel around the pockets, fiddle with the zippers.
  • If you're shopping online, find out if the company has a return policy.
  • Some things your dream bag should include:
  • Adjustable straps so it's comfortable no matter how tired you are.
  • Washable fabric. Do we really need to say more?
  • Lots of pockets - inside and out.
  • A design that doesn't offend your sense of style - or your partner's if he's going to carry it too.
  • An alternate, smaller bag for short outings.

    • Pack with caution

    Packing a diaper bag is more complex than throwing in a few diapers, change of clothes and some snacks. Maximize the real estate and stick to travel-sized items. If you plan to rent a car while traveling, pack a spare bag with blankets, a few extra diapers and a change of clothes for the trunk.  

    Though some items in the diaper bag seem like a given, you'll be amazed at how easy it is to forget to restock the bag.

  • Diapers
  • Baby wipes or cotton balls soaked in baby oil for newborns
  • Diaper rash cream
  • Hand sanitizer for mom
  • Plastic bags for dirty diapers and other yucky things
  • Bottles or formula - if they need to be kept cold, get a reusable ice pack
  • Snacks for older babies and children in leak-proof containers
  • Bibs and spit up cloths
  • Small toys that can be clipped to the stroller or strapped onto the bag
  • Cuddle toy, plastic book or bubbles to amuse a cranky baby

    • Mom (or Dad's) Stuff

  • Spare car keys, recent photos of your children if you have a wanderer in the bunch, tampons or sanitary pads and a spare $20 bill
  • If you're transporting medicine (yours or your child's) make sure it's in a childproof container and tucked away - and properly labeled
  • Ditch your purse - you have enough stuff to worry about.

    • Remember your diaper bag is your signature accessory, so pick one that shows what a fabulously organized mom you've become.

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