As a mother, I am well accustomed to being in constant “pounce mode” – I’m ready to spring into action as soon as baby decides to spit up on something, bite something, eat something, bang on something, poop on many somethings, etc. I have spent many countless hours packing diaper bags and many agonizing long minutes feverishly unpacking my diaper bag as emergencies strike. Here are a few tips I’ve learned to making sure you are always prepared and that when the moment presents itself, you can actually find what you’re looking for!

First you need to pick the right kind of diaper bag. I don’t have a lot of requirements. Style is for you to decide, but it is crucial for your bag to have several outside pockets! At least two, but three or four are helpful … mine has six. The strap must leave both hands free. I prefer a bag with a large strap to put across my body. Whatever you find most comfortable: two straps for over the shoulder, messenger bags, whatever you like. Backpacks are OK, but it’s hard to reach the outside pockets when they’re behind you. That’s it.

1. Always have a bottle, bag of food, and wet wipes in the outside pockets.
   
   Those are the essentials. You must cater your outside pocket needs to your child though too. For instance, if you have an active child, maybe their favorite toy needs to be in ready access. If you have a “spewer” (child who spits up constantly) like mine was, then a burp cloth is essential in an outside pocket. If your baby is attached to their pacifier, by all means, do not leave it at home! (I personally loved the Pacifier Pod to hold my little boy’s pacifier – it kept it clean and very accessible). But all children need to eat, drink and make messes. Bottle, food and wet wipes.
   
   The inside of your diaper bag will vary depending on the age of your baby. When they are infants, maybe your diaper bag will hold mostly diapers and formula, when they’re older – more toys, etc. Whatever you put inside, it needs to be organized so you can find it!
   
   
2. That’s why number two is to organize the inside of your diaper bag using smaller bags. I use large gallon sized Ziploc bags. You can use fabric bags if you’d like too (they last longer). But smaller, organized bags inside your diaper bag are essential.
   
   
3. You will need at least four smaller bags. One for changing (includes a full change of clothes – socks and all), one for medications (diaper rash ointment, teething ointment, Tylenol, lotion, etc.), one for diapers (which should include an extra Ziploc bag or two for especially messy clothes or other wet and soggy items) and one for food. I strongly suggest bringing a blanket, toys and books, but the things that need to constantly stay in your bag are the already mentioned four essential bags.