In The Bag — The Broccoli Floret

Nov 12

Nov 12 In The Bag

When I was preparing for the birth of my daughter, I had a difficult time finding a diaper bag that felt right for me. I’m not a fan of wearing backpacks, and honestly the diaper bag styles that were available didn’t look like bags I would choose to carry. I wanted something that still reflected my style and didn’t look like it belonged in a nursery.

It eventually came to me that I didn’t need a diaper bag. I just needed a bag.

After that, the decision was easy. As an avid traveler, the Longchamp La Pliage Bag has long been my carry-on staple. It’s waterproof, folds into a super small pouch when not in use, and is responsibly made in France with non-toxic materials. Since it’s not a bag with specific pockets for diapers and baby items, the bag can be used well past the baby stage—for travel and beyond.

I keep my main diapering essentials in a clear plastic pencil case. Everything is in full view, and can be wiped clean if necessary. The items I like to have in this case are Honest Baby Wipes, Honest Hand Sanitizer Spray, a travel size Triple Paste, a travel size A&D Ointment, a travel pack of tissues, and a few Shout Wipes.

I also have a full backup outfit packed at all times. I keep it in a quart zipper bag, which is where I store the soiled clothes after an emergency quick change until I can treat the stains at home.

I also make diaper packs ahead of time with a disposable changing pad, a dry wipe, and a diaper in a quart zipper bag (which I then use to discard the soiled diaper.) I always like to have at least 2 of these packed in the bag. You will need more for long outings, but it’s good to always have a few stocked and ready to go.

I also keep a portable changing mat and a clean spare blanket in the diaper bag at all times. The blanket was especially helpful when I was breastfeeding anywhere and everywhere!

Other items that you might consider keeping in your bag at all times are sunscreen, bug spray, benedryl, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and a few emergency books and toys. A PackIt Lunch Bag with any food or bottle essentials fits perfectly the Le Pliage bag, too!

Don’t overpack, and keep everything clean and wiped down. Throw away any trash when you get home, and restock immediately it before you leave for the day.

Here is the list of my diaper bag essentials: