When I had my first baby, leaving the house for the first time was a big deal.  I didn’t really know what to pack with me, and didn’t want to forget something.  Newborns have different needs than older children, so you will need to pack different items.  To help you decide what to pack in your diaper bag, here is a list of things I think you’ll need (this would also be a great baby shower gift - pack up a diaper bag with these items).  Some of these items have been reviewed here - you can do a search, and maybe you’ll even find a coupon code!

• Diapers - this is obviously the most important item.  I usually pack a diaper per hour I’ll be out (for newborns) but that’s just my own guideline.  We loved Pampers Swadders for the newborn age - the velcro tabs were perfect if you need to attach over and over again. 

• Wipes - again, this is a very important item that you do not want to be without!  I just love the wipes cases by Made by Angie - http://www.madebyangie.com/, but of course, you could use a travel wipes case or a plastic bag filled with wipes.

• Wet Bag - newborn babies have very frequent diaper blow outs and so you will likely be carrying home some dirty clothes.  Perfect for this purpose are the wet bags sold by http://www.minimebabygear.com/.

• Plastic baggies - you’ll want to put those dirty diapers in a bag before throwing it in the trash.  Diaper baggies http://www.diaperbaggies.com/ makes the most amazing diaper plastic bags that keep the smell in!!

• Change of clothes - If your baby has an explosive diaper, you’ll have to do an outfit change.  Make sure you have a spare set of clothes for this purpose.

• Changing pad - some diaper bags come with one - but look it over and make sure it’s big enough and soft enough for a newborn.  If not, we love the Tushy Gear, http://www.tushygear.com/, which can also hold diapers and wipes, or the Emmie’s World pad and pouch http://www.emmiesworld.com/.

• Diaper Cream - we always pack Vaseline, and then usually a sample size tube of A&D.

Optional - Depending on where you are going, how your baby is fed, and personal preference, you may need:

• Pacifier
• Baby carrier
• Sun hat
• Baby bottle
• Formula
• Bottle warmer
• Nursing cover up

While we have not seen this product in person - the BabyBeReady diaper bag from http://www.babydish.com looks like it would be a great alternative to packing your own bag.