Modern parenting means being ready to go at a moment’s notice. You may need to take your baby to their child care center every morning, or you might be the type who brings your baby on errands every day. Taking your baby out of the house regularly is the best way to help them learn more about the world, and having these must-haves for your busy lifestyle makes it easier to get out the door faster.

Choose a Comfortable Stroller

Whether you are meandering through the park or trying to catch a bus, a stroller is the easiest way to get your little one from one place to another. Stroller styles vary significantly, so be sure to try out several to find the one that works best for your needs.

Find a Quality Baby Bag

Bringing diaper bags helps parents keep everything together. These bags are different from purses since they have additional pockets and other features that make them perfect for carrying your baby’s supplies. You can also keep everything your baby needs in the bag and hand it off to their other parent or caregiver. Having your baby’s supplies organized also makes it easy to perform diaper changes and feedings on-the-go.

Pack a Wrap

There may be times when a stroller isn’t the easiest way to get through an area. In these cases, a baby wrap makes it possible to keep your baby close and your hands-free. Wraps can easily fit in your bag so that you always have a convenient way to carry your baby.

Carry a Lightweight Blanket

Those adorable receiving blankets retain their functionality after you get past the swaddling stage. They are usually thinner and more lightweight than normal blankets, and this makes them easier to pack for your day out on the town. They are also versatile. You can use them to warm your baby up if you end up in a cold environment. They also make great nursing covers and can even serve as a cloth diaper in a pinch.

Keep Toys at All Times

Being on-the-go means that there may be times when your baby has to wait with you in boring situations. Avoid meltdowns in the grocery store line and other places by having a few kid-friendly distractions packed and ready to go. Rattles, tethers and fabric books all help babies feel comforted when there’s not much going on.

Bring Kid-Safe Headphones

Older infants and toddlers may enjoy listening to music or stories during your commute or while you wait for an appointment. Look for kid-safe headphones that have limited volume controls so that your little one can listen in without you having to worry about them damaging their hearing.

Pre-Pack Snacks

A well-fed baby is a happy baby. Once your baby is eating solids, then you can easily keep snacks stored in your day bag so that you always have a way to prevent hunger pangs. If you have a toddler, then consider also putting in a self-feeding cup that prevents spills whisk your little one eats independently.

Going places on a regular basis teaches your baby to learn how to relax and go with the flow. Keeping your bag packed and ready to go is the most effective way to avoid delays that make you late. Consider buying two of the same item that you use regularly, such as pacifiers, so that you can keep one in your bag and one at home. Being able to grab your bag and go feels like freedom when you don’t have time to spare.