When you become pregnant, the realization that your life is about to become a whole lot more complicated probably hits the hardest when you register for baby gear. Suddenly, the car is way too small. The words “travel” and “spontaneous” can no longer be used in the same sentence. The one thing you will always have with you (besides your baby) is the diaper bag. It’s worth spending a little time picking one out!
Depending on your lifestyle you may want to get two diaper bags: one for quick trips to the store or a friend’s house and one for extended trips such as vacations or visits with family.
For the smaller bag, you might as well find one that can double as your purse. You’ll quickly discover that carrying a diaper bag and a purse gets old fast. A small diaper bag that can fit a couple diapers, a travel case of wipes, hand sanitizer, pacifiers, a snack, and a single change of clothes (like pajamas), with a little extra space for your wallet and keys, etc., is all you really need. There are small diaper bags that look like fashionable handbags and others that look more like a messenger bag. It’s easy to find one that matches your personal style. It’s best if it can be slung over your shoulder to keep your hands free. Extra pockets on the outside for quick access to keys or pacifiers are a must. If you are going to use the bag as your purse as well, make sure the inside features zippered pockets to safely tuck away items like medication, lotion, lip balm, and other small or non-baby-friendly items.
When choosing a larger diaper bag, keep in mind it might get a little heavy, so you will want to pick a bag that has sturdy straps and strong zippers. It should be large enough to hold several changes of clothes, extra diapers, and a few baby toys in addition to the normal supplies. It’s not likely you’ll be using this bag as a purse since it’s a lot to lug around in a store, so if you can find a bag that comes with a mini matching bag to hold essentials like your wallet, phone and keys, that is a plus.