Thursday, March 20, 2014

My Disneyland Survival Kit

I planned on making a "What's in your diaper bag" post but I thought this would be a good way to not only show my everyday must haves when taking Ian out, but also some of my life saving gear when I'm taking him on longer adventures and travels.

As mentioned on my previous post, I over-packed for my first Disneyland trip.  Here's an edited version, which made a total difference in how I felt about leaving my stroller while we went on the attractions.



Backpack. I knew I wanted a Nike one and Zappos.com totally sold me on this one while watching the video.  It's pretty big, but I figure I can use it as a carry on when flying and it'll have plenty of room for Ian's stuff and mine.  I like the separate storage area that can hold his soiled clothes or things I want "hidden"/ not easily accessible.  The small pocket on top is where I put my wallet and phone so I can get to it easily but it's also pretty inconspicuous.

Carrier. Lifesaver when going on adventures.  Ian is very curious and loves people watching so I face him out most of the time.  I chose the Infantino Swift Baby Carrier because it was 1) affordable and 2) easy to put on without anyone's help (I watched the product use video on the Infantino site).  Plus it's comfortable for both me and Ian!

Mini Cooler. Can't leave without one since it keeps breastmilk and his food cold.  I use the bottom storage to hold ice packs.

Knitted Blanket. A family friend knitted this one for Ian.  I like it because I can use it to shield the sun from Ian's face when he's in his stroller and he won't feel claustrophobic.  I like to hope that he can still be able to see a little and not be scared that he's alone.  When it gets cold, I put it on him as a blanket and he looks like a sweet innocent baby..haha.

Here's a closer look at what's inside the backpack:


Water - for me and Ian's formula
Sandals for when it's hot, shoes for when it's cooler
Jacket 
Baseball cap to shield Ian's face from the sun,
Camera - just in case my phone dies.  I wouldn't want to miss photo ops.
Receiving blanket - I mostly use it to put it under Ian's head if I change him on a hard surface
Diaper Bag Insert Organizer - one of my must haves since I knew from the start that I didn't want to buy an actual diaper bag.  The cute ones that don't look like typical diaper bags can cost you $100+ and I think that's totally ridiculous.  I use a Betsy Johnson Weekender Bag (bought at Burlington Coat Factory for $40) and with this insert I think it has more organized storage than any diaper bag out there. And in this case, I can easily switch from bag to bag and not have to worry about forgetting to transfer anything.

I love being organized!



Of course, everything is grouped together 
Diapers, Wipes, Changing Pad
Extra Clothes
- I've encountered many diaper explosions and I know there will be lots more.
Bottle & Formula
A couple pacifiers since Ian can be picky and Pacifier Wipes in case he drops them 
Baby Sunscreen - A MUST! Broad spectrum. I use this one by Aveeno  
Baby Lotion -  Ian had eczema so I try to keep him moisturized and put some on his face, arms and legs after each diaper change. 
Hand Sanitizer - A MUST! 
Mama snacks - 'cause sometimes there isn't time to eat a proper meal. I like having granola bars handy until I can get a real meal in.

**not pictured: tissue, a couple paper towel rectangles, plastic bag - all for accidents

Seems like a lot huh?  Having to lug all this around isn't just to fulfill the saying "It's better to be prepared than sorry"...it's just what your baby needs.

Oh and be sure to check out the Baby Care Centers at Disneyland and California Adventure!  They have changing tables, a feeding area with high chairs, a small kitchen, a toddler potty and nursing rooms.  They also have baby essentials for purchase in case you forget any of the above.  Your little one will love the sticker they give before you leave too ;)

Hope this helps you prepare for your magical day at Disneyland!

<3
Melissa




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