Retailers are now on board with functional and stylish bags, but the key to making the most of the all-important diaper bag is organization. Follow our tips to choosing and organizing your on-the-go baby bag to maximize efficiency and space.

Choosing the Bag
Be sure to choose a bag that has lots of pockets. If you absolutely have to have the designer bag with only one center pocket, purchase smaller zipper pouches for organizing items so they dont get lost in the bottom of the bag.

Use several pouches to categorize what you put in the bag. For example, keep diapers and wipes in one; bottle, a bib, formula in another; and a change of clothing in a third. Consider stashing an extra set of keys in a zipper compartment in the bag, just in case you misplace your original set.

For added flexibility and organization, consider using a separate bag or pocketbook just for your stuff: wallet, cell phone, lip gloss, etc. that can easily be pulled from the diaper bag when youre off on your own without baby. This will keep your essentials from co-habitating with baby's and make it easier to find your things when youre in a hurry.

Packing the Bag -- What You Need:

• Diapers
• Wipes in a zip lock bag. This will take up less space and keep wipes moist.
• Bibs: one or two. Use bibs that fasten with Velcro instead of ties -- do you can put it on with one hand.
• Bottle and formula: Bottled water for mom or dad to drink or to add to bottle to feed baby
• Snacks for you and baby as he grows
• Toys
• Rattle, favorite stuffed toy
• Receiving blanket
• Extra set of clothing for baby and extra shirt for mom
• Digital or disposable camera
• Binky, if baby uses one
• Anti-bacterial hand cleaner
• Cosmetic-type bag stocked with baby Orajel (if you little one is cutting teeth), extra pacifier and nail clipper
• Zip lock bags for the unexpected diaper change in the back of the car

Re-stock the diaper bag after an outing so you're ready to go at a moments notice.

Stacey L. Crew is a Professional Organizer and the author of the GOPACK for New Moms, a 200-page book on organizing from conception through babys first year. Stacey is mom to Claire and Jenna and one busy woman! For more great organizing tips for busy women and new moms, visit www.gopack.org.

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