Cooler Diaper Bag

First time mom, what to pack in diaper bag when going out?

I finally get to bring my little guy home on Saturday!! (He was born Nov. 9, a month premature). My question is, what in the world do I need to pack in his diaper bag for just going out in general. I mean, obviously diapers and wipes, and a pacifier or two...i breastfeed (although since he was in the NICU it's mainly pumping and bottle feeding) so i suppose i'll need my milk cooler and some bottles if going out for an extended time.....

I'm afraid I'll go overboard and pack EVERYTHING. As in, his entire wardrobe, lol. Help me to not over do it!

diapers, wipes, diaper changing pad, extra clothes (diapers leak sometimes!), burp cloth, extra blanket, bottles, milk, pacifier, and i also carry a first aid kit and hand sanitizer

Kelty Tote Diaper Bag $69.95 Completely redesigned for 2010, the stylish Kelty Tote Diaper Bag has a place for everything. The insulated cooler pocket feature ensures easy bottle access from the outside the bag, and the internal organizer panel keeps your diapers, wipes, snacks and essentials organized.

Kelty Messenger Diaper Bag $49.99 Kelty Messenger Diaper BagThis sleek diaper bag is designed for the parent on-the-go who needs efficient organization and quick access to the essentials. The base of this bag is angled for carrying convenience and comfort. This bag also boasts additional organizational elements for your personal elements such as PDA, water bottle, and documents.Cooler pocket for bottle accessible from outsideChanging pad includedPadded, removable shoulder strapWater bottle pocketOrganizer with ipod and coin pocketOrganizer pocket for diapers and wipesSleeve on back panel secures bag to rolling luggage handleWeight: 1.6 lbs.Dimensions: 14.5" L x 15" W x 9" D Age: Child Brand: Kelty K.I.D.S. Color: Blue Color Mapping: Blue Gender: Unisex Material: POLYESTER

Skip Hop Bento Ultimate Diaper Bag $99 Perfectly designed for families on-the-go! BENTO is the most innovative and functional diaper bag Skip Hop has ever created. Designed from the ground up to be a total solution for today’s busy, multi-tasking families, it’s hard calling BENTO just a diaper bag. BENTO includes our insulated MEALTIME KIT with CLIX containers, which slides into a convenient compartment�keeping food in its own special place. The perfectly sized containers store snacks and more while the insulated cooler bag and perfect-fit freezer pack keep food fresh. Of course, BENTO also features plenty of pockets for superior storage and organization, padded tote straps, an adjustable messenger strap and our patented Shuttle Clips so that it can attach to any stroller. This amazing bag is perfect for mom or dad, and will carry you through the diaper days and beyond.Includes an 8 Piece insulated Mealtime Kit with Age: Child Brand: Skip Hop Color: Black Color Mapping: Black Gender: Unisex

Baby Jogger Cooler Bag $19.95 Baby Jogger Cooler Bag

NRS Saddle Bag Cooler $99.95 NRS Saddle Bag Cooler

Diaper Bag

Choosing a Family-Friendly Vehicle

There are many decisions to make in choosing a vehicle that is suitable for a family.  Some relate the choice to gas mileage and functionality, while others may determine that comfort is at the top of the list.  It is most important to understand that a vehicle should be chosen not only for what your family needs now, but how flexible the vehicle can be as your family grows.

Safety should be a foremost consideration for your family automobile.  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration consistently lists the safest vehicles, along with vehicles that have particular safety features.  The Administration also has information on crash impact and rollover statistics for all automobiles.   Doing your research on the autos you wish to look into, can always assist you with your choice.

Budget may also be a deciding factor when purchasing a family-friendly vehicle.  One must also remember that the sticker price of a vehicle does not include additional factors such as:  taxes, plates, and fees.  It may also help to call your insurance agent, and get an estimate on the insurance rates for the vehicle, before purchasing it.  

Your budget will also include gas mileage.  If your family is consistently buzzing around town for swim meets and Girl Scout meetings, perhaps a vehicle with better city mileage is what you will need.  If you are commuting with your family or taking regular weekend trips, it may be more important to be informed of the highway mileage.

When considering a family vehicle, do not be afraid to bring the entire family to test-drive the auto.  Pack everybody in, and see if it is a comfortable fit for all.  What works for one family, may be a completely different fit for another.  Some things to think about when your family test-drives a vehicle:

•    Is there enough room for the entire family (including diaper bags, coolers or             whatever else you may transport on a daily basis)?

•    Is there enough storage (for groceries, strollers, sports equipment)?

•    Do the child seats fit comfortably and safely into the vehicle?

•    Is there additional seating for friends, family and pets?

In looking for a family-friendly vehicle, most forget to consider the 'extras':

•    A sunroof can be great, but be sure it comes with a shade, to dim brighter sunshine

•    Tinted windows can keep sun out of children's eyes

•    Additional cup holders are always a bonus for juice boxes or cups full of snack-            foods

•    Sliding doors can offer more access to the rear seats, as well as making it easier for             passengers to get in and out

•    Dual (Front/Rear) cooling can clear the heat out of a vehicle much faster than front             cooling alone

Minivans and SUV's have been a favorite for many years, in supplying comfort and efficiency for families big and small.  Most used minivans and SUV's can be quite affordable, too.  Each family will have their own set of needs and necessities.  In purchasing your next family-friendly vehicle, this food for thought will have you on your way to choosing the perfect investment.

About the Author

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV's. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area and is known as one of the bad credit car dealers in Austin. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.