12 Essentials to Pack in Your Diaper Bag or Dad Hoodie

Packing a diaper bag, or in our case, a Dad Hoodie, might feel like a daily challenge, no matter how much you adore your little one. It’s not necessarily a chore—it’s just the task of ensuring you have everything you need. Whether you’re prepping your hoodie for an afternoon outing or a morning errand run, we’ve got you covered with the essentials and some items that might come in handy.

Diapers

Diapers are obviously a must! Pack at least 4-6 diapers in your bag for the afternoon. It’s always better to have too many than not enough. You never know when a quick outing might turn into a longer adventure, and extra diapers can be a lifesaver in unexpected situations.

Wipes

Keep a pack of wipes ready in your bag. Baby wipes aren’t just for diaper changes—they’re also perfect for cleaning messy hands, wiping down surfaces, or freshening up on the go. A full-size pack is great, but travel-size packs can save space if your bag is already packed to the brim.

Portable Changing Pad

A portable changing pad is essential for keeping your baby off icky surfaces during diaper changes. Look for a foldable pad that fits easily into your diaper bag. If it has built-in pockets, even better! Those extra compartments make it easy to keep wipes and a diaper accessible during a quick change.

Scented Disposable Diaper Bags

Disposable diaper bags are great for when you’re changing your baby in the car and don’t have access to a trash can. These bags also come in handy in shared restroom spaces to mask odors.

Extra Outfit

Blowouts happen—we all know this. Having at least one extra outfit in your diaper bag is a must. Opt for something lightweight that won’t take up much space, like a onesie and cozy pants.

Hand Sanitizer

Soap dispensers don’t always work, and sometimes there isn’t a sink in sight. Hand sanitizer is a must-have for freshening up your hands before handling your baby’s snacks or bottles. Choose a baby-safe sanitizer that’s gentle on everyone’s skin.

Bottles

Always have a clean bottle ready in your bag. Whether you’re formula-feeding or offering pumped breastmilk, having a bottle on hand ensures you’re prepared for hungry moments, no matter where you are.

Formula

Breastmilk or formula is another must-have. If you’re using formula, pre-measured powder containers can make mixing easier when you’re on the go.

Water

Bring water to mix formula or for your child to drink if they’re old enough. A sippy cup filled with fresh water can also keep your little one hydrated during outings.

Pacifier

If your baby uses a pacifier to stay calm, make sure to pack one. Consider bringing an extra just in case one gets dropped or misplaced.

Cloths

A burp rag or extra cloth is essential for keeping you and your baby clean. In warmer months, a cooling cloth can also be a great addition to keep your baby comfortable in the heat.

Snacks

Of course, you can’t forget the snacks. Whatever snack your baby loves at the moment will keep them happy while you wait in the doctor’s office, run errands, or travel. Pack a variety of options like puffs, crackers, or fruit pouches.

What Essentials Do you Need in a Newborn Baby's Diaper Bag? 

Packing for a newborn will require more diapers and wipes. Newborns need to be changed often. Pack one diaper for every hour you’ll be out. You know your baby best though, so just have more than enough to be extra safe. We also recommend diaper cream for rash prevention.

Don’t forget to pack pre-measured formula or breast milk. For comfort, consider all the things that make baby feel safe and cozy. A lightweight blanket and outer layers to keep warm if it’s cold out. You may also want to pack extra pacifiers and smaller toys that they can play with while in their car seat. 

These essentials will ensure you’re ready for anything while you’re out with your baby. With a well-packed diaper bag, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’ve got everything you need to handle the day’s adventures.

If you’re only out for a quick errand, we think you can skip the diaper bag. Yep! Just pack the essentials in the Dad Hoodie. It’ll fit a few diapers, a small pack of wipes, pacifiers, a bottle, and some snacks such as crackers or squeezable yogurt or apple sauce.