What makes a diaper bag special is its ability to store absolutely everything necessary for a day out, weekend getaway, or extended stay– from diapers, bottles, clothes, wipes, toys, and extras of all of those things & more. A diaper bag should be the one tool to keep a new parent from ever feeling unprepared. Not all diaper bags are created equal, though! The most special diaper bags should include extra features that make getting around with your little one as breezy as possible; features like fold-out changing stations, coolers to keep baby bottles chilled, and extra compartments for Mom & Dad can all make a diaper bag the best piece of gear to go out and about with.

Many will encourage you to pack your first diaper bag as soon as you find out your due date; that way, if baby decides to come to the party early, Mom & Dad are prepared with everything they need for a safe and successful hospital trip (and trip back home). Alternatively, getting your diaper bag together a week or two before your due date is okay– but the earlier, the better!

While technically, any bag can be a diaper bag, it’s highly advised to invest in a bag designed to house everything needed for an adventure with baby. This includes extra compartments, changing stations, pockets for quick access, and storage options galore. No parent wants to spend minutes at a time digging through a bag overstuffed with items that could have their own accessible pocket or compartment to live in. Diaper bags offer parents a little more organizational help and make a great gift for expecting parents, too!

Many parents find themselves still using a diaper bag when their little one is 5 years old. Even after they’re potty-trained, toddlers still need a lot while out and about with Mom & Dad. From extra clothes and toys to snacks, wipes, and water, babies and toddlers alike can always use a little backup– and so can parents! The last thing you want is to toss the diaper bag away after your child’s third birthday only to realize during the next outing that a little extra gear could be a major help. As long as baby still needs help getting through the day-to-day, parents will likely find a good reason to use a diaper bag.