What’s in My Diaper Bag: 12 Essentials I Never Leave the House Without
(Real Mum-Tested Must-Haves You’ll Actually Use)
Diaper bags: half survival kit, half mystery zone.
Before I became a mum, I thought a couple of nappies and wipes would do the trick. Now? I pack like we’re prepping for a long-haul flight every time we go to the park. 😅
After some serious trial and error (and more than one emergency blowout situation), I’ve finally narrowed it down to the 12 things I always keep in my diaper bag—the essentials that save the day every single time.
(This post may contain affiliate links. I only share products I genuinely use and love.)
The 12 Essentials in My Diaper Bag
1. Nappies (3–5 depending on the outing)
Obvious, but I’ve forgotten them once… and I’ll never recover. We’ve had the best luck with Pampers Pure—gentle on skin, strong on leaks.https://amzn.to/4k2UWrE
2. Travel Wipes Pack
Great for nappy changes, sticky hands, mystery playground goo… everything. I keep a slim pack of WaterWipes in the side pocket—great for sensitive skin. https://amzn.to/4dibhpH
3. Changing Pad (Foldable & Wipeable)
Public restrooms aren’t always clean (or available). I love having my own. The Skip Hop Pronto changing mat folds neatly and wipes down in seconds. https://amzn.to/4k7uBIE
4. Zip-Up Sleepsuit or Spare Outfit
For surprise leaks, food disasters, and muddy adventures. I pack a zipped Carter’s Sleepsuit—super soft and takes up no space. https://amzn.to/3SHqaIs
5. Disposable Nappy Bags
Not just for nappies—also for soiled clothes, snack wrappers, and unexpected messes. Munchkin Arm & Hammer bags are scented and come in a handy dispenser.https://amzn.to/4diJ0iJ
6. Mini Diaper Cream
I keep a travel-size tube tucked in the side pocket. Total lifesaver during teething. The mini tube of Bepanthen fits perfectly in my pocket and works fast. https://amzn.to/4djtiE9
7. Hand Sanitizer
For me, mostly. Especially before snack time on the go. I clip a travel-sized Babyganics sanitizer to the strap—easy and safe for little hands. https://amzn.to/45f4bAf
8. Snack Container
Something mess-free and toddler-approved. Usually rice cakes, oat bars, or a banana. We use the Munchkin Snack Catcher—no spills, no mess, even in the car.https://amzn.to/4k2VzBw
9. Reusable Water Bottle or Sippy Cup
Hydration = fewer toddler meltdowns. I never leave without it. The Contigo Kids Water Bottle has been a total game-changer—leakproof and easy to clean.https://amzn.to/3ZjoZTn
10. Soft Toy or Teether
Her comfort item comes everywhere. It’s also a distraction tool in queues. Her Sophie la Girafe comes everywhere—it’s soothing and cute.https://amzn.to/4mj0zDl
11. Muslin Cloth
Wipe up spills, use as a blanket, sunshade, or emergency bib—endlessly useful. I keep a rolled-up Aden + Anais muslin in the bag—it’s a multi-tasking hero. https://amzn.to/4jX5okr
12. My Things (Cardholder, Keys, Lip Balm)
I toss these in a zipped pocket so I can ditch my handbag completely. My little Bellroy cardholder fits in the zip pocket so I can skip carrying my handbag.https://amzn.to/4ko3JUQ
💡 Optional (But Handy!) Add-ons:
- Pacifier & clip
- Sunscreen
- Teething gel
- Portable phone charger
Don’t forget to grab your “The ADHD Mum’s Diaper Bag Checklist”
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