Planning a day at the zoo with your newborn is an exciting adventure! Fresh air, animal sightings, and family bonding are what memories are made of.
But when it comes to venturing out for the whole day, especially with a newborn, preparation is key.
One of the most important elements of any outing is your diaper bag. To help you enjoy the day with minimal fuss, here’s a helpful guide on how to pack your diaper bag for a smooth day out at the zoo.
1. Diapers and Changing Essentials
Newborns need frequent diaper changes, and the zoo doesn’t always offer convenient changing stations. You’ll want to be prepared for anything.
- Diapers: Pack at least one diaper for every 2-3 hours you plan to be at the zoo, plus a couple of extras, just in case.
- Wipes: Wipes are multi-functional for cleaning your baby, but also for wiping down surfaces or cleaning your hands.
- Changing Pad: Many diaper bags come with a portable changing pad. Zoos may not always have clean surfaces, so a changing pad ensures your baby stays clean. Bellaboo Mabel & Ava have a mat included.
- Diaper Cream: Zoo trips can be long, and you want to protect your baby’s skin from irritation.
- Disposable Diaper Bags: Great for sealing up dirty diapers or soiled clothes until you find a trash can.
2. Feeding Supplies
Feeding is one of the most crucial parts of baby care on an outing.
- Breastfeeding: If you’re nursing, pack a cover or light blanket if you prefer privacy. Zoos often have quiet spots where you can take a break.
- Bottles and Formula: For formula-fed babies, pack pre-measured formula and clean bottles. Use a small thermos to carry warm water, or use ready-to-feed formula for convenience. The Bellaboo collection has at least one insulated pocket in each bag, keeping bottles and snacks at the right temp.
- Burp Cloths: Keep a few handy for spit-ups or milk dribbles.
- Pacifiers: If your baby uses pacifiers, pack one or two extras in a small, clean case to avoid losing them along the way.
3. Clothing and Comfort
Newborns can get messy, so packing extra clothes is a must!
- Extra Onesies or Outfits: Pack two changes of clothes. You never know when you’ll need them, especially if your baby has a blowout or spills milk.
- Layers: Zoos are often outdoors, so pack a lightweight sweater or jacket, depending on the weather. Hats for sun protection and socks are also key.
- Swaddle Blanket: A light muslin swaddle blanket can be used as a cover, a shade, or even a place for your baby to lie down if needed.
- Sun Hat: Even if there’s shade, newborns have sensitive skin, so a sun hat is a must for protection from UV rays.
- Bellaboo has plenty of compartments to keep the essentials easy too reach.
4. Baby Care Essentials
Your baby’s comfort is a top priority, so having care essentials on hand is key.
- Hand Sanitizer: Zoos are full of germs from all the touching and exploring you’ll do. Use sanitizer to keep your hands clean, especially before handling your baby.
- Sunscreen: Choose a baby-safe sunscreen and apply it to any exposed skin. Even if the day is cloudy, it’s good to be prepared.
- Baby-Friendly Bug Spray: If the zoo has any grassy areas or wooded exhibits, packing baby-safe insect repellent can keep mosquitoes at bay.
- Baby Toys or Teethers: A couple of small toys or teethers can help keep your baby occupied while you walk around.
5. Snacks and Water (for Parents!)
A well-packed diaper bag isn’t just for your baby! A busy day at the zoo means you’ll need to stay hydrated and fueled too.
- Water Bottles: Stay hydrated by packing enough water for the day. Some zoos have refill stations, but it’s always safe to bring your own. External pockets like the ones on Ava are perfect for your bottle.
- Healthy Snacks: Granola bars, fruit, or trail mix can give you the energy you need while caring for your little one.
6. Stroller Accessories
If you're bringing a stroller, you’ll want to pack a few extras to make your day easier.
- Stroller Hooks or Clips: These can be a lifesaver when it comes to hanging bags, jackets, or other items. Included with Bellaboo and many other bag brands.
- Stroller Fan: If it’s hot, a clip-on stroller fan can keep your baby cool and comfortable.
- Rain Cover: In case of unexpected weather, a stroller rain cover will protect your baby from sudden downpours.
- Toy Straps: Attach your baby’s favorite toy or pacifier to the stroller with a strap so you won’t lose it.
7. Other Must-Haves
- Camera or Phone: Capture memories of your baby’s first zoo trip!
- First Aid Kit: A mini first aid kit with baby-safe items like band-aids, infant Tylenol, or teething gel can be handy in case of minor mishaps.
- Zoo Tickets/Passes: If possible, store your tickets or passes in an easily accessible part of your bag or on your phone.
Packing Tip:
Place frequently used items like wipes and diapers at the top of the bag or in outside pockets for easy access. Organize smaller items like pacifiers, creams, and snacks in zippered pouches or separate sections so you’re not digging around when your baby needs something quickly. Our Ava has an external pocket made to take wet wipes and keep them in reach at all times.
Conclusion
Packing a diaper bag for a day at the zoo doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right essentials, you’ll be ready for anything and able to focus on what matters most—enjoying your time together as a family! By being prepared, you’ll ensure that both you and your newborn can have a fun, relaxing day filled with wonder and discovery at the zoo.
Check out the Bellaboo Diaper Bag collection today and save 30%