There’s something oddly satisfying about a well-packed diaper bag. After trying a few styles, I’ve landed on a setup that’s practical, organized, and still feels like me — not a black hole of baby gear.
Here’s exactly what’s in my diaper bag right now, what I actually use, and the products that make it easy to grab and go.
The Bag Itself
I use the L.L. Bean Medium Boat and Tote, and it’s truly the perfect size. It fits everything I need for a few hours out, looks classic, and costs a fraction of most “designer” diaper bags.
I love that you can customize it with your baby’s name or nickname (ours is monogrammed and feels special every time I grab it). It’s also something they can keep using as they get older — from baby years to beach trips and beyond.
Diaper + Changing Essentials
Quilted Makeup Pouch with Bows
- Holds 3-5 diapers
- Keeps everything together
- Cute aesthetic design
Black quilt pouch with bows – I use this one on Amazon to hold 3–5 diapers. It keeps everything together, looks cute, and makes diaper changes feel less chaotic.
Skip Hop Pronto Portable Changing Mat
- Wipeable surface
- Compact fold-up design
- Works anywhere
Skip Hop Portable Changing Mat – This fold-up changing pad has saved me in every random location you can imagine. It’s wipeable, compact, and folds up neatly.
Tiny Twinkle Wet Dry Bag 2-Pack
- Reusable and washable
- Leak-proof design
- Cuter than disposable options
Checkered Wet Bags – I always keep one of these reusable wet bags on hand for dirty diapers or clothes. They’re leak-proof, washable, and so much cuter than disposable options.
Coterie Wipes and Diapers – I keep 3–5 diapers and a travel pack of wipes in the bag. Coterie’s wipes are soft, minimal, and clean really well, so they’re always my go-to.
Feeding + Pacifier Setup
Silicone Pacifier Holder Case
- Clips to bag handle
- Looks like an accessory
- Easy one-handed grab
Shell Pacifier Holder – I’m obsessed with this one. It clips right onto the bag handle, so it looks more like a cool accessory than a baby item. It’s easy to grab with one hand, which matters more than I ever realized.
Pacifier Essentials
Mushie Linen Pacifier Clips
Tommee Tippee Ultra-Light Pacifiers
Mushie Linen Pacifier Clips – These keep pacifiers from dropping or rolling away mid-outing. They’re soft, neutral, and match everything.
Tommee Tippee Ultra Light Pacifiers – These are our favorite. They’re lightweight, breathable, and stay in better than most brands we tried.
Dapple Pacifier Wipes
- Safe for baby's mouth
- Perfect for pacifiers on the go
- Quick cleanups
Dapple Pacifier Wipes – I keep a small pack of these wipes for quick cleanups. They’re safe for baby’s mouth and perfect for pacifiers or bottle nipples on the go.
Burp Cloth + Extras
Comfy Cub Muslin Burp Cloths 20x10
- Large 20x10 size
- Soft and absorbent
- Not bulky
Comfy Cub Burp Cloths (20x10) – These are my holy grail. They’re large, soft, and absorbent without being bulky. I usually keep one in the main compartment and another folded inside the changing mat pocket just in case.
Extra Onesie – I always pack a backup outfit. The H&M onesies fit our baby the best — they’re soft, wash well, and are great for a baby with a longer torso.
A small bottle with milk – Depending on the outing
How I Keep It Organized
Everything has a place. Diapers and wipes go in the black bow pouch. The changing mat and wet bag sit together on the bottom. Pacifiers clip to the tote handle. Burp cloths and the extra onesie fold near the top for easy access.
The L.L. Bean tote doesn’t have interior pockets, but that’s part of what I like about it. It’s simple, structured, and easy to dig through.
My Take
There are a million diaper bag checklists out there, but most of them are overstuffed. This setup keeps things minimal without feeling unprepared. Every item earns its place — useful, durable, and nice enough that I don’t mind carrying it myself.
I love that this bag will grow with her, too. One day it’ll hold sunscreen and snacks instead of wipes and burp cloths, but for now, it’s everything we need.