It'd be nice if you could toss a few diapers and some wipes in a bag and be ready to head out with your infant for a couple of hours. But as you'll quickly discover, there are a few more must-have items to pack. Here's a look at the essentials:

6-8 diapers (several more if you're traveling with a newborn)

baby wipes in a travel case

change of clothes according to the season

2 receiving blankets

large cotton blanket (for extra comfort on long car trips)

2 rattles & teething rings

your baby's favorite small stuffed animal or toy a musical toy or book

bottles with breast milk or formula stored in an insulated carrier jar

baby food, dish, and spoon

2-3 burping rags

1 bib

hand sanitizer (for quick clean ups after a diaper change)

2-3 plastic bags (for disposing of dirty diapers) tissues

small toiletry bag for baby including: diaper rash ointment, bandages, nail clippers, acetaminophen, washcloth, and baby soap