Before having a baby, I had a purse that was just that: a purse. It had grown-up purse things in it, like keys, a wallet, my phone, gum, a brush, makeup, and other random things. After baby, though, I didn’t have a purse, I had a diaper bag and it was filled with much, much different stuff.
Snacks – The first thing I grab to pack before heading out the door is snacks. Because really, hunger crankiness is one of the worst types of cranky there is, but it’s an avoidable one! I actually keep bin on the shelf next to the door that are just for Bubbles’ snacks, so it’s easy to grab a few things and toss them in my bag. Don’t forget a bottle of water or a juice pouch, too.
Activities – There’s always a pack of crayons in my mom bag – always – because no matter where you are, it’s appropriate to break out the crayons. I also keep one of my old phones in my bag that has Bubbles’ favorite apps on it, a couple of small books, and stickers.
Loose change – I generally don’t carry cash, but I do have a little pouch with some loose change and maybe a dollar or two. Loose change can be useful for everything from unexpected tolls, to throwing pennies in the fountain (something Bubbles would happily spend an hour doing), to buying a bottle of water from a vending machine.
Tissues – Sometimes I feel like the only time my daughter’s nose runs, is when we leave the house. And I know for me, personally, I always sneeze more when I’m out and about (yay for seasonal allergies). Having a pack (or three) of tissues in my bag helps keep everything more sanitary.
Wipes – Speaking of sanitary, you’re also going to want baby wipes. They can clean hands and faces, are useful for wiping dropped snacks out of the car seat, and are perfect for wiping off tables or chairs at the park or restaurant.
Right now you can get Huggies Natural Care wipes at Sam’s Club that come packaged with a wipes clutch just for mom. The design was chosen based on votes received and is a fun and stylish way to carry an essential. Check out the cute design in this fun video.
If you’re not already, you can grab a Sam’s Club membership, then head on over and pick them up to add to the collection of kid essentials in your mom bag!
What kid essentials do you carry with you?
About Liza
Liza is a mom (5-year-old daughter, 20-year-old stepson, and 24-year-old stepdaughter) and wife living in Louisville. She loves spending time with her family, visiting the local zoo and parks, as well as planning travel adventures. Cooking and baking, DIY projects and crafts, and coffee - lots and lots of coffee - round out some of her other hobbies.