OK, so we’ve now taken our son to enough places for me to describe how to properly pack a diaper bag with just the right amount of stuff. I’ll start by saying that we usually go to one of our parents’ houses for approximately 3-4 hours, so this method works for that time frame.
· Diapers: We bring 5. I’ve personally had experiences where he’s pooped three separate times while I’ve been in the process of changing him, so I safeguard that with 5. He’s pooping less these days…down to like 2 or 3 times a day, so I feel pretty safe with 5 diapers.
· Wipes: We started with a wipe carrier, and we’d put like 3 per diaper (so 15) in it. However, recently I just picked up a package of the Seventh Generation Travel Wipes pack, so now we just bring that. I think there’s 36 in it. I need to stay on top of this though because my wife doesn’t pay attention to how many are left of things.
· Poop bags: We use the Munchkin/Arm & Hammer little roll of bags. They’re compact and have a bunch…you can get a refill set of 3 rolls with like 36 bags each for like $4. They clip on the side of the diaper bag…awesome.
· Changing pad: We’re using a Skip Hop bag that comes with a changing pad, so that works. We have a bigger pad for when he gets older, but we’re using the one that comes in the bag for now. It works perfect and fits back in the bag nicely.
· Pacifier: We used to bring 2, until we started using the little clip strap for them, so they’re sure not to fall on the ground. Now just one suffices.
· Bottles: This one is on you…we never bring more than 2. We have a separate insulated cooler bag for them. Just make sure to keep them upright if you’re bringing them pre-made, or use the travel caps and bring the pieces. Damn you Dr. Browns…so many pieces, but no gas in baby.
· Clothes: We throw in another change of clothes (See my Pulitzer Prize nominated piece of Pooping Through Diapers below) and a blanket. Sometimes we go out and the weather is nice, and by the time we’re leaving, it’s dark and much colder. And we can also use the blanket in the case that he dirties his second outfit also.
· Other: Don’t forget creams/vasoline/moisturizer/gauze/etc…any other stuff you might use on a regular basis based on your baby’s current needs.
It’s actually not been as bad as I thought it would be so far. When we start going on trips for longer amounts of time, that might change, but I envisioned needing to bring my entire house with me every time we leave, but we’re pretty much got it under control. The pack and play or the vibrating chair, the diaper bag, and the bottle bag and we’re ready to roll out.
