Diaper Bag Essentials
What I Pack in My Diaper Bag (Mom of Three Edition)
Diaper bags look very different depending on what stage of motherhood you’re in. When I had my first, I packed everything. Now with three boys (including twins), I’ve learned what’s actually useful, what never gets used, and what I absolutely cannot leave the house without.
Your diaper bag also depends on your parenting style. Some moms are ultra prepared. Others are totally fine keeping a couple diapers and wipes in the car and calling it a day. Both approaches work — this is just what works for our family.
The Diaper Bag I Use
I currently use the Tonyeee Diaper Bag Backpack, and it’s been great since having twins.
Why I like it:
- It’s expandable, which is huge when you suddenly have to pack for three kids.
- It has insulated bottle pockets.
- It’s a backpack, which I strongly believe is the only way to go when you have multiple kids.
I’ve tried tote-style diaper bags before, and honestly… with three kids, how am I supposed to carry that thing while wrangling toddlers and babies? Backpack all the way.
Other diaper bags we’ve used or liked:
- Lululemon New Parent Backpack
- BÉIS Diaper Backpack
- Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag (the larger size works well for quick outings)
Sometimes a small shoulder bag works for quick trips too, but for full outings, a backpack wins every time.
Diaper Bag Essentials
Diapers
I pack at least 10 diapers, but that’s because I have twins. If you have one baby, you obviously won’t need that many. Amazon subscription for this saves me a decent amount of money and peace of mind.
My 3-year-old doesn’t need diapers anymore — we successfully potty trained over Christmas break (check out the blog post on how we did that!).
Wipes
Pretty self-explanatory. You can never have too many wipes. With three kids, I have an Amazon subscription for wipes, so I never forget! And it saves me some money.
Extra Clothes
I always pack:
- Extra outfits for all the kids
- Underwear for my 3-year-old (just in case)
You never regret having backup clothes.
Burp Cloths & Receiving Blankets
I usually pack 3–4 because they’re thin and fold up easily.
They’re perfect for:
- Spit up
- Spills
- Quick cleanups
- Emergency changing mats
Honestly they’re one of the most versatile things in the bag.
Bottles
Most diaper bags have insulated pockets, which are perfect for bottles. I use the Dr Brown’s 4oz bottles for travel.
Bottle Warmer
I just started using the MomCozy bottle warmer. It has been a life saver, but I would say pack an extra charging block, it does not last long – I would say maybe 5-6 warming sessions within one charge.
Portable Change Pad
My diaper bag came with a small change pad, and it’s perfect for on-the-go diaper changes.
Public change tables aren’t always the cleanest, so I use it every time.
Doggy Bags (Essential)
This is a diaper bag must-have.
They’re perfect for:
- Dirty diapers
- Blowout clothes
- Wet or messy items
- Situations where there’s no garbage nearby
Let’s be real… blowouts happen.
You could also use a small laundry bag for this if you prefer something reusable.
Phone Charger
I always pack:
- Charging cable
- Charging block
Because there’s nothing worse than being out with kids and your phone dying.
Hand Sanitizer
I always keep hand sanitizer in my bag.
Right now I’m loving Paume. It’s a Canadian brand that makes moisturizing hand sanitizer, which is amazing when you’re constantly cleaning your hands but don’t want them drying out.
Their sanitizer contains skincare ingredients like glycerin and aloe, so it actually leaves your hands feeling soft instead of cracked.
You can order directly from their website or find it on Amazon.
I also love the mini hand sanitizers from Bath & Body Works — they’re tiny, smell great, and are easy to throw in any pocket.
Pacifiers
I keep a few extra pacifiers in the bag.
We use BIBS pacifiers, which you can find at Walmart, Amazon, or directly from their website.
I also keep them in a small pacifier bag, which helps keep them clean and easy to find.
Winter Gear
Since we live in Canada, I also keep winter gear in the diaper bag.
For the babies, we use the Columbia Baby Snowtop II Bunting snowsuit, plus hats and mittens from the Gap Baby & Toddler CashSoft Cable‑Knit Beanie & Mittens Set.
I bought them in three different colours so the boys subtly match.
I’ve also learned to keep extra winter gear in the car in case of emergencies during the winter.
Snacks (Lots of Snacks)
Snacks are essential, especially with a toddler.
Some of our go-to snacks:
- Bear Paws
- GoGo squeeZ
- Freeze-dried strawberries
- Yogurt bites
- MadeGood granola bars
Water Bottle
Even if it’s empty — it’s always good to have one with you.
Small Toys or Books
Depending on where we’re going, I’ll pack a couple small toys or books to keep the kids entertained.
Baby Carrier
I also keep my baby carrier in the bag. The one I use folds up really small, which makes it easy to pack.
Blankets
Sometimes I bring blankets in case I need to lay the twins down on the floor somewhere.
I love the fuzzy blankets from Winners because they’re about half the price of most baby brands.
But Pip + Phee makes beautiful blankets with amazing colours. I’ve definitely splurged on a few because they’re a Canadian mom-owned small business and the quality is incredible.
Kleenex
Wipes will do in a pinch – the amount of times I have used a wipe to blow my nose or clean up spit up is crazy, but I do appreciate a travel sized Kleenex pack in my diaper bag, get them at your local stores, Costco, or Amazon!
Hair ties / Clips
When I am breastfeeding or even just holding one or both my babies, it is great to be able to put my hair up so it isn’t grabbed – cause OUCH. I found a quick release of a babies hand by using your finger where their wrist meets hand (not palm side) and gently pushing down. This is my favourite clip to use (Canadian owned BONUS), but honestly whatever works for you!
What Other Moms Pack
One of my mom friends packs:
- Diapers and wipes
- Backup outfit for toddler
- Extra undies and pants
- Snacks – lots of snacks!!
- A handful of Fisher‑Price Little People toys
- A few designated travel toys like mini magnetic tiles and magnetic puzzles
- In the summer add in sunscreen and hats!
Another mom told me she’s very type B and just keeps a pack of wipes and a couple diapers in her car — which honestly works great too.
Another option that one of the moms does is keep a crate in the trunk of her car with all potential necessities. wipes, diapers, change of clothes, box of GoGo Squeeze.
A few moms have the Lululemon bag – as kids get older the bags are now filled with snacks, water bottles and extra clothes. And the bag is stylish for our needs!
Motherhood is all about figuring out what works for you.
What NOT to Pack in Your Diaper Bag
When I had my first baby, I packed everything. Eventually I realized most of it never left the bag.
Here are a few things that tend to be unnecessary for everyday outings:
Too Many Clothes
One spare outfit is usually enough for each child unless you know you’ll be out for a long time.
Full-Size Products
Travel sizes save a lot of space in your bag.
Too Many Toys
Kids often end up playing with random things around them anyway. One or two small toys is usually enough.
Extra “Just in Case” Items
Trying to prepare for every possible scenario just makes your bag heavy and harder to organize.
Keep it simple — your back will thank you. Also, if you forget something, there are usually stores around, or just know for next time!
Diaper Bag Setup by Stage
Your diaper bag setup changes a lot as kids grow.
One Baby
Typical setup:
- 4–6 diapers
- Wipes
- One extra outfit
- Burp cloth
- Bottle
- Pacifier
Very manageable.
Twins
Now you basically pack for two babies at the same time.
Typical setup:
- 8–10 diapers
- Multiple burp cloths
- Two bottles
- Multiple pacifiers
- Extra outfits
Storage and organization become a lot more important.
Baby + Toddler
This stage adds snacks and entertainment to the equation.
Typical additions:
- Snacks
- Water bottle
- Toddler underwear and pants
- Small toys or books
Toddlers don’t need diapers forever, but they definitely need snacks.
How to Keep Your Diaper Bag Organized
The secret to a good diaper bag isn’t just what you pack — it’s how you pack it.
Use Small Pouches
Grouping items together makes it easier to find things quickly.
Example:
- Pacifiers in one pouch
- Snacks in another
- Health/hygiene items together
Restock After Every Outing
Make it a habit to quickly refill diapers, wipes, and snacks when you get home.
Future you will be grateful.
Keep Emergency Items in the Car
Some moms prefer a lighter diaper bag and keep backup supplies in the car instead:
- Extra diapers
- Wipes
- Blanket
- Change of clothes
That way you always have a backup if you forget something.
Rotate Toys
Instead of packing a bunch of toys, rotate a few small ones so they stay interesting.
Final Thoughts
Packing a diaper bag doesn’t have to be complicated, but having a few essentials ready can make outings with kids a lot smoother. After three babies (including twins), I’ve learned that the best diaper bag setup is the one that works for your family and your lifestyle. Some moms like to be fully prepared for anything, while others keep it simple with just a couple diapers and wipes in the car. Whether you’re packing for one baby, twins, or a toddler who still needs snacks every 20 minutes, the goal is the same: leave the house feeling prepared, but not overwhelmed.
The Ultimate Diaper Bag Checklist (Free Printable)
Whether you’re packing for one baby, twins, or a baby and toddler combo, having a simple checklist can make getting out the door much easier.
I created a Diaper Bag Essentials Checklist you can save on your phone or print and keep near your diaper bag so you can quickly restock after outings.
You can download the free printable version by signing up for the Chapter One Motherhood newsletter.
(Pro tip: if you already downloaded the hospital bag checklist, this one pairs perfectly with it.)
Diaper Bag Essentials Checklist
Baby Essentials
☐ Diapers
☐ Wipes
☐ Portable change pad
☐ Diaper cream
☐ Burp cloths
☐ Receiving blankets
Feeding
☐ Bottles / formula
☐ Snacks
☐ Water bottle
☐ Bibs
Clothing
☐ Extra baby outfit
☐ Extra toddler outfit
☐ Extra toddler underwear & pants
☐ Socks
Hygiene
☐ Hand sanitizer
☐ Doggy bags or laundry bag for dirty items
☐ Kleenex
Soothers & Comfort
☐ Pacifiers
☐ Pacifier holder or pouch
☐ Small blanket
Entertainment
☐ Small toys
☐ Board books
☐ Travel toys
Mom Essentials
☐ Phone charger
☐ Wallet
☐ Lip balm
Seasonal Items (Canada Mom Musts)
☐ Hats
☐ Mittens
☐ Snowsuit or warm layers
☐ Extra blanket
Quick Restock Checklist (After Every Outing)
This is the 5-minute reset I try to do when we get home.
☐ Replace diapers
☐ Refill wipes
☐ Add snacks
☐ Restock pacifiers
☐ Put clean clothes back in the bag
☐ Remove garbage or dirty items
Doing this once saves a lot of “why is there nothing in the diaper bag?!” moments before leaving the house.
Want the printable version of this diaper bag checklist?
Join the Chapter One Motherhood newsletter and download it for free — plus get access to the Hospital Bag Checklist and future mom resources.