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Summer Diaper Bag Essentials

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By Karen Grimaldos

Babies and toddlers need lots of stuff to get through long summer days on the go. In addition to basics like diapers, wipes, water and snacks, prepared parents also have to consider what might be needed in the event of an emergency—or spontaneous summer fun.

Getting your summer diaper bag organized and packed up now will make it super easy for you to get through all the warm, sunny days ahead. Take a look at the list below to find out what you should consider adding to your diaper bag this season.

Sunscreen

Babies can get sunburned in as little as 15 minutes. If your baby is six months or older, you can apply sunscreen to her skin. Choose one that contains zinc oxide or titanium oxide to avoid irritating baby’s sensitive skin and eyes. If your little one is less than six months old, it is recommended that you keep her out of direct sunlight and in protective clothing and shade at all times.

Books & Toys

It’s definitely easy to keep a baby or toddler busy with a smartphone or tablet when you’re faced with a potential meltdown, but experts say that too much screen time could actually lead to language learning delays. Your best bet is to go old school and stash a couple of books and toys in your bag for those inevitable entertainment emergencies.

Sun Hat

We’re not talking just any old hat. Babies and toddlers need serious sun protection from their headgear. The perfect sun hat is wide-brimmed and will shade your little one’s eyes and also cover her face, neck and ears.

First Aid Kit

You can buy a prepackaged baby first aid kit or make your own. Whichever one you choose, make sure it includes essentials such as bandages, gauze, adhesive tape, scissors, antihistamines and antibiotic cream.

Sealable Bags

These are an absolute must for keeping your diaper bag clean and organized. You can use them for storing diapers, toting snacks or as an on-the-go laundry bag.

Sunglasses

Sun damage to your baby’s eyes now could result in serious eye problems later. Baby eyes can’t block the sun’s rays like adult eyes can, so only choose shades that offer your sweetie 99 percent UV protection.