Top 5 Must-Haves in Your Diaper Bag

(From a Newborn Photographer With Six Kids, Who Has Seen It All!)


As a newborn and family photographer, I’ve spent countless hours with new parents, capturing those sweet first moments. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned (aside from the fact that babies have the best snuggles!), it’s that a well-packed diaper bag is a lifesaver. Whether you’re heading to a photo session, a playdate, or just out for a quick errand, having the right essentials on hand can make all the difference.

Here are my top five must-haves in every diaper bag:







1. Diapers & Wipes (The Obvious, but Essential!)

You never want to be caught without enough diapers! Pack at least two to three diapers for short trips and more for longer outings. A travel-sized pack of wipes is also a must—not just for diaper changes but for cleaning sticky hands, wiping down surfaces, or tackling unexpected messes.

2. A Change of Clothes (Because Accidents Happen!)

Between diaper blowouts, spit-ups, and food spills, babies have a knack for needing a wardrobe change at the least convenient times. Always pack a soft, comfy onesie and an extra set of socks. Bonus tip: A lightweight muslin blanketcan double as a changing pad, nursing cover, or burp cloth!

3. Bottles & Snacks (For Happy Tummies!)

If you're bottle-feeding, have pre-measured formula or breast milk in an insulated bag. For older babies, bring some easy, non-messy snacks like puffs or fruit pouches. A small sippy cup of water is great for hydration on the go!

4. Pacifier & Small Comfort Items

A fussy baby can turn an outing into a meltdown real fast. If your baby loves a pacifier, teether, or small lovey, keep it handy! These little comforts can be a lifesaver during a photo session or when waiting in line at the store.

5. A Small First Aid & Emergency Kit

You don’t need a full medicine cabinet, but a few essentials can be a game-changer. Pack:

✔️ Travel-sized diaper cream

✔️ A few band-aids for scrapes

✔️ A small tube of baby-safe sunscreen

✔️ Hand sanitizer for quick clean-ups

Bonus Tip: Keep It Organized!

Use small pouches to separate items—one for diapering, one for feeding, and one for first aid. That way, you’re not digging around when you need something quickly.

A well-stocked diaper bag isn’t just about being prepared—it’s about making life with a baby a little easier. And when you show up for your newborn or milestone session, you’ll be ready for anything (including those adorable mid-session snack breaks!).


Looking to book a stress-free newborn session? I specialize in capturing beautiful, timeless images of your little one—so you can focus on making memories while I take care of the rest!