By eHow Parenting Editor

One of the baby items new parents can expect to use the most is the diaperbag. Having the right diaper bag fully stocked with all the necessities in an easy-to-access way can make or break an outing with a new baby. With a plethora of sizes and styles from which to choose, selecting the right diaper bag can be challenging. Use the following tips to help you find a diaper bag that will have you cooing with happiness.

Step1

Determine your budget. Many affordable bags can be found for under $30, though you may sacrifice some choices in color and styles. For parents-to-be with a more flexible budget, a variety of designer label diaper bags are available.

Step 2

Select a style. Backpacks and shoulder bags are among the many styles of diaper bags available nowadays. Think about whether you will be using the bag daily or for long trips. Decide whether you want a bag you can use while handling multiple children or one that could easily coordinate with your office attire. You may also want to consider who will be carrying the diaper bag most of the time. Fathers may resist carrying a pink polka-dot bag, and there are many stylish, neutral choices available to suit both parents.

Step 3

Compare features. Diaper bags should have plenty of compartments to store your baby essentials but not so many that you get tied up searching a labyrinth of pockets just to find your keys. Insulated compartments are great for storing bottles or baby food. Many come with a changing pad included, as well as features like cell phone pockets and key rings for parents. Decide whether the accessibility of snaps or the security of zipper closures best matches your needs.

Tips & Warnings

When choosing a size, bigger is not always better. Remember that the more stuff you pack in the bag, the heavier it will become and you still have to be able to hold the baby!

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