The best thing about summer as a parent is the way it lowers the stakes.

A trip to the park turns into a picnic. A pre-dinner walk gets happily hijacked by an ice cream truck. You stay longer than you planned because everyone's having fun and, honestly, why not?

The key to that kind of spontaneity isn't being prepared for everything. It's having a few essentials on hand that make it easier to roll with whatever the day brings.

Here are a few things we always keep packed in our summer diaper bag.

Summer Diaper Bag Checklist

Baby Carrier

It should come as no surprise that a carrier is one of our top summer essentials. It’s lightweight, compact, and infinitely easier than navigating sand, stairs, or crowded sidewalks with a stroller. Bonus: your hands stay free for sipping endless iced coffee.

Versatile Cover

A good cover can be one of the hardest-working items in your diaper bag. Use it for feeding on the go, stroller naps, a burp cloth, or whatever else the day calls for.

An Extra Set

The best summer days rarely end on schedule, and keeping a set of pajamas handy is the ultimate hack for when an outing stretches past bedtime and you want the transition from car to crib to be as smooth as possible.

Sun Protection

A sun hat for baby. SPF for you and the toddlers. And wipes, because applying sunscreen to kids is inevitably messy. If you're looking for guidance on whether to use sunscreen on your baby and which kind, we've put together a guide with everything you need to know.

Feeding Essentials

Whether you're packing bottles, formula, a breast milk chiller, or all three, having what you need on hand makes it easier to stay out a little longer.

Snacks

Always plenty of snacks. For you and the kids. Fresh fruit is a favorite, but easy grab-and-go options like granola bars, pouches, and puffs earn their spot, too.

Diapers & Wipes

Duh. Always pack more than you think you'll need.

Antibacterial Wipes

For when your park date turns into a spontaneous picnic and the same hands that just touched the playground equipment are suddenly reaching for snacks. We love these ones.

A Few Small Toys

A few familiar favorites can go a long way during restaurant waits, car rides, or those moments that call for a little distraction.

Mini Fan

A shockingly small but easy way to make a hot outing feel a whole lot more comfortable.

Basic First Aid Supplies

This spray works wonders on cuts, scrapes, eczema, you name it. And bandages are always a must-have for outings with littles.

Your Essentials

Your favorite sunnies. Extra hair ties. Lip balm. Mints. And whatever else helps you feel a little more like yourself.


What’s on your agenda for summer? We’d love to hear. If traveling is on the list, here are some of our best travel tips with littles.