Diaper Bag Essentials for the First 3 Months
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Trust me, you don’t need to carry half the nursery every time you leave the house.
The newborn stage comes with plenty of gear, but when it comes to your diaper bag, less really is more. Overpacking just makes it harder to find what you actually need in the moment (and trust me, babies always pick the messiest moments).
Here’s a minimalist and practical list of diaper bag essentials for the first three months—everything you’ll actually use, nothing you won’t.
👶 Diapers
The obvious must-have. For quick outings, 3–4 diapers are usually plenty. If you’re out all day, you may want to pack more.
My favorite diapers: Healthybaby and ATTITUDE, as they are both EWG-verified products.
🧻 Wipes
A pack of wipes is your diaper bag’s MVP. Not only for diaper changes but also sticky hands, spit-ups, and mystery messes.
My favorite wipes: Coterie. I’ve used many different brands and I feel that Coterie does the best job, especially with messy cleanups.
🌟 Portable Changing Pad
Most diaper bags come with one, but if not, a foldable changing pad keeps things sanitary when you’re changing baby on the go.
This one is nicely padded and comes with a cute carrying bag!
👕 Change of Clothes (for Baby)
Always pack at least one full outfit. For blowouts, a simple footie is easiest to swap into.
👚 Change of Top (for You)
It’s fun to live life on the edge but trust me—if your baby spits up or has a diaper explosion in your lap, you’ll be grateful for a clean shirt in your bag.
🍼 Feeding Supplies
If breastfeeding: nursing cover (optional), burp cloth.
If bottle feeding: 1–2 bottles, pre-measured formula or pumped milk, and a small cooler bag with an ice pack if needed. Don’t forget a burp cloth or two to wipe away any dribbles or spit ups!
Must-have item: this formula dispenser.
🧸 Pacifier (with Clip or Case)
If your baby uses one, keep a clean spare (or two!) in a case or clip to avoid lint and germs.
🧴 Small Diaper Cream & Hand Sanitizer
Travel-size tubes are perfect—just enough for on-the-go emergencies without adding bulk.
My favorite diaper cream: Butt Paste. With 40% zinc oxide, this diaper cream nips rashes in the bud.
🌞 Seasonal Add-On
Summer: lightweight muslin blanket for shade.
Winter: warm hat or cozy blanket.
Always: a soft swaddle blanket doubles as a burp cloth, nursing cover, or emergency changing mat.
📱 Parent Must-Haves
Don’t forget yourself! Toss in your phone, wallet, and keys. A snack bar and water bottle are also lifesavers for new parents running on empty.
🚫 What You Can Skip
Too many toys (under 3 months, baby won’t need them).
Multiple outfits (one spare is enough for most outings)
Full-size lotions, powders, or bulky extras.
💬 Final Thoughts
In the first three months, newborn outings are usually short and sweet. A diaper bag that’s streamlined and functional makes life easier and keeps you from lugging around unnecessary clutter.
Remember: the goal is to have what you need for one messy emergency, not to pack for an overnight trip. Keep it simple—you’ll thank yourself later.