Reviewed by The Mom Store editorial team, October 2026. See our editorial policy.
The diaper bag goes everywhere with a newborn, so it is worth packing it well once and restocking it after every outing. Start with the bag itself: pick a size you can carry comfortably along with your baby, with separate compartments so you can find the wipes with one hand while holding your little one with the other.
Many parents keep two bags. A small one for a quick trip to the market or a neighbour's house holds two or three nappies, a small pack of wipes, a foldable changing mat and a cloth. A bigger one is for a full day out or travel, and holds everything on the list below.
What to pack
1. Diapers
Babies are unpredictable, so carry more than you think you need. Two or three are enough for a short outing. For a full day, count roughly how often your baby needs changing at home and add a couple extra. The NHS advice on nappy rash is to change wet or dirty nappies as soon as possible, which is harder to do when you are out, so a spare or two makes sense.
2. Baby wipes
Keep a small travel pack in the bag at all times, and even in your handbag when you are not carrying the diaper bag. The NHS suggests cleaning your baby's skin with water or fragrance free, alcohol free wipes.
3. Changing mat
Many diaper bags come with a foldable changing mat. If yours does not, buy one separately. It gives you a clean surface wherever you have to change your baby.
4. A change of clothes
Babies rarely stay clean for a whole outing, and the day you do not carry spare clothes is usually the day you need them. Pack at least one extra set, such as a jabla or romper, and a pair of socks. For a long day, carry two.
5. A small blanket or swaddle
A soft cotton blanket or swaddle can cover your baby in an air conditioned mall or a cool evening, and doubles as a clean surface to lay your baby on.
6. Tissues and cloths
A packet of dry tissues helps pat your baby dry after cleaning with wipes. Add a washcloth or two to wipe your baby's mouth after feeds, and a thicker napkin in case your baby spits up.
7. Feeding supplies
If you breastfeed, a cloth or stole for privacy and a few breast pads may be all you need. If your baby has formula, carry clean, sterilised bottles and the powder in a measured container, and plan how you will make up each feed safely while you are out. The NHS guide to making up formula says it is best to make up feeds one at a time, as your baby needs them, to reduce the risk of infection.
8. A sipper or cup (from around 6 months)
Fully breastfed babies do not need water until they start solid foods. From around 6 months, the NHS advice on drinks and cups is to offer sips of water from a cup with meals, and it says an open cup or a free flow cup without a valve helps babies learn to sip. Formula fed babies under 6 months may need small sips of cooled boiled water in hot weather, which is worth remembering in an Indian summer.
9. Snacks (once your baby is eating solids)
Once your baby has started solids, carry a small box of the finger foods they already eat at home, such as soft fruit pieces. It saves you from searching for something suitable when your baby is hungry.
10. Nappy cream
If your baby gets nappy rash, keep a small tube of barrier cream in the bag. The NHS says a pharmacist may suggest a thin layer at each nappy change to protect the skin. See a doctor if the rash does not go away, gets worse or spreads, if your baby has a high temperature, or if your baby seems very uncomfortable.
11. A familiar toy
One or two toys your baby already plays with at home, such as a rattle or soft toy, help keep them settled in a new place.
12. Medicines and small extras
For a short outing you usually do not need medicines. For travel, pack any medicines your doctor has prescribed for your baby, a thermometer, and your doctor's phone number. Do not give any new medicine without your doctor's advice. A few other small things earn their place: a plastic or zip bag for dirty nappies and clothes, hand sanitiser, a cap for sunny days and a little cash for emergencies.
Travelling with a baby, even for a short time, is easier when you are prepared for the usual surprises. Repack the bag as soon as you get home so it is ready for next time.
Need a bag that fits all of this? Browse our diaper bags.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this post are the personal views of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the views of The Mom Store.
