Here are some of our suggestions for arming yourself and your diaper bag with lifesaving items that could make an ugly situation manageable. From our experience, you’ll be glad you have them!
ESSENTIALS:
Diapers & Wipes- Always bring a more of these than you think you’ll need!
Food/ Drink- Bottles, sippy cups, water bottles, or juice boxes are essential to keeping your kids happy and hydrated on the go. Also, having a snack or two is a great idea. Hungry kids equal unhappy kids, and having a snack on hand just might prevent you from having to give in to another Happy Meal!
Changing Pad- When diaper changing can happen any and everywhere…this one is a necessity!
Extra Pair of Clothes/Underwear- You never know when the next spill, playtime mess, or accident might happen. Always having a change of clothes with you can save your child from spending your outing in the nude!
Soothing Items- Prevent your own mini-disaster by tucking in your child’s soothing device. A blankie, pacifier, or stuffed animal is a must on-the-go!
EXTRAS YOU’LL BE GLAD YOU HAVE:
Bandaids- Even if your child doesn’t end up with an “ouch!” that requires a bandaid…chances are someone else’s little one will be in desperate need for one…and they’ll be glad (and impressed) that you have it!
Empty Plastic Bag- You’ll be grateful to have this for incidents that may warrant having a place to store yucky or wet clothes.
Travel Size Children’s Sunscreen- There is nothing worse than finding yourself outdoors in the sun longer than you expected, with an unprotected child left to sunburn. Sunscreen is a great thing to have on hand any time of the year.
Baking Soda- Having a small ZIplock bag with some baking soda can arm you with a trick to help minimize the odor from unfortunate car seat accidents. After your best attempt at cleanup, generously sprinkle baking soda over the entire area to help deodorize the situation until you get home. It makes a car ride home more bearable…and it’s easy to vacuum up once you are back.
Small Package of Alcohol Free Wipes & Diaper Rash Ointment- You never know when a diaper rash might sneak up on you. Alcohol free wipes are less painful on a diaper rash and being able to follow up with diaper rash cream can ultimately save a baby from an incredibly uncomfortable trek back home.
Light Jacket- Finding a light jacket that can be rolled up small into your bag is nice to have when unexpected weather strikes! If your outing includes leaving the car…it’s good to have the option of keeping your child dry/warm.
Sugar!- A small dose of sugar (Smarties, suckers, etc) can sure come in handy when trying to coax, distract, or appease your child. This little trick just might save you from an embarrassing meltdown!
It’s a good thing diaper bags are BIG!!
