My Top Fives {Toddler Bag Essentials}

Last week I did a post on Children’s Books that are must reads (by Kaylee’s standards) in our house. I was trying to decide what to post this week and so I thought about things that have made my life a little easier and I found my inspiration.

When Kaylee was a tiny little thing, she needed a whole lot of stuff when we were out and about. Our diaper bag was filled to the brim with diapers, wipes, extra clothes, bibs, bottles, and anything that would keep her entertained. Now that she is older, Kaylee doesn’t require a whole lot. Kaylee doesn’t drink out of a bottle anymore so there’s no need for that and so the bibs went too. She entertains herself quite well now so we didn’t have the need to lug around a ton of toys. Kenny and I decided that it was time for the rather large baby bag to go. We wanted to downgrade to something smaller and more manageable. I needed to downgrade from a huge baby bag to a smaller “toddler” bag. I kept the essentials such as the wipes and a few diapers plus a change of clothes. I carried everything around to be prepared for any event but now I find that I can wing-it a whole lot better. Kaylee isn’t so fussy and picky anymore. She’s able to go with the flow which is so much better for us. So, I got rid of the “junk” from my baby bag and only kept the things that I absolutely need. I put together the top 5 things (besides the basic diapers, wipes etc) that I just can’t leave the house without. I got a  little more creative with this week and make this post look a little more fab and a little less drab. I hope you like it!

1. On a regular shopping trip to Target, I decided to browse the handbag section for a bag to replace my baby bag. I scooped up this bag Target. It’s a messenger bag with a velcro flap (the buckles are just for show). I love this bag because it is the right size for my needs, it has an adjustable strap which allows me to have it as a cross-body bag, and it was a steal at only $16.99! I like the idea of the cross-body bag since Kaylee doesn’t like to walk sometimes and I end up having to carry her. When you have a regular shoulder bag, it’s hard to keep it from falling off and you end up trying to carry your child and awkwardly hold your bag. A cross-body bag is definitely worth it.

2. My hubby got this SODIAL handbag organizer insert because he saw that it was only $3.99 at Amazon.com. I will never know why he bought it for me but I am grateful for it now. It is originally for cosmetics and such but it works wonders for my toddler bag. I neatly organized all of Kaylee’s essentials into the organizer insert and tucked it into my bag. Now, if I have to switch bags for whatever reason, I can just pull this right out with the little handles and move it somewhere else. I never thought too much about this organizer but it has come in handy and now I can’t imagine not having it in my bag. It also keeps everything from sloshing around inside of your bag.

3. I don’t know about you all but my toddler is accident prone. Kaylee does not go a day without bumping into something. Since she is such a curious little explorer, she always manages to get a boo-boo or two. Hence, the first aid kit. I like this Johnson & Johnson kit because it is small but is packed with the essentials. I have one in the car and always have one in my bag. I have the larger version at home. With a curious toddler, you can never be too careful. This little kit is perfect for your toddler bag.

4. I cannot tell you how much sanitizer I go through. I’m not a germaphobe or anything I just worry about my family getting sick. When we get sick, it takes us forever to get through it. Plus, living in NYC, it pays to have hand sanitizer at all times. The subways are yucky and truth be told, you never know what gross things you will come into contact with. Bath and Body Works has these adorable little PocketBac holders for your PocketBac sanitizers so that your sanitizer is at your disposal at all times. I never leave home without my little monkey girl.

5. Last but not least, the Munchkin Diaper Bag Dispenser. Right now, Kaylee is still in diapers while we attempt to potty train her. These plastic bags are great for containing those dirty diapers when you’re on the go. I cannot tell you how many times these little bags saved me. When we are visiting with friends or family, I always feel bad throwing the dirty diapers in the trash. I know how smelly they can get. These bags contain the odor and are very handy for other things besides diapers. The cute little dispenser hooks onto your bag and keeps the bags in your reach.

If you find yourself converting to a “toddler” bag, I hope that these little items are helpful!

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