It’s known as “the bin” in my family. It’s a soft-sided, square storage bin that, for years, sat between my sons’ car seats. It served as a divider, which helped keep the peace, but it was also a catch-all for things I wanted them to have within arm’s reach. Crayons, paper, books, action figures, paper towels…
As moms, being prepared for our kids’ needs beforehand helps us just as much as it helps them. There’s actually research on this! Minor hiccups like a diaper blowout without supplies (which always happen when we’re just running up to the store!) can be more stressful for moms than major life events because they add up over time. So, when you’ve got the essentials ready in your car, you’re protecting your own sanity.
Maybe you’ve got your car supplies all figured out, but in case you’re still making a list, here are 7 things to consider adding.
1. Go-Bag
I put this at number one because out of all the things a mom should have in her car, I think the go-bag is the most important. It’s called a go-bag because it enables you to go where you want. Out running errands and get a call from a friend to meet her at the park? You can do it if you have a go-bag because you’re ready for anything.
Here’s what should be in it:
- Accident Supplies: a couple of diapers or extra underwear, wipes, and paper towels
- Hangry Prevention: non-perishable snacks (like Goldfish crackers or granola bars) and a water bottle; keep out of sight until needed
- Backup Pacifier: because once it’s been on the ground in a parking lot or at Walmart, it’s out of commission until further notice (well, unless it’s for your second child, right?)
- Extra Outfit: one complete change of clothes
Keep it stocked in your car at all times, and just update it as your kiddo grows. This one bag will save you more times than you can count.
2. Books
One of the best pieces of advice I read as a new mom was, “Start out the way you mean to end up.” In other words, create habits you want to see continue in your children. Conversely, don’t create a habit you’re going to have to break when your child is older. If you want your child to become a reader and word lover, plant books in the back seat instead of screens.
3. A Picnic Blanket
I would’ve loved to have been more spontaneous with my kids. I always had the go-bag, but a picnic blanket in the trunk would’ve meant more relaxed bird-watching or bug-hunting opportunities in the park. Bonus item to keep in the car—an iMOM printable. The Nature Scavenger Hunt is the perfect companion to your picnic blanket.
4. Weather Prep
That picnic on a whim is fun until your 3-year-old comes home with a sunburn. Sunscreen isn’t just for planned beach and pool days! And when it’s cool, an extra jacket can prevent your spontaneous picnic idea from being squashed like the bugs your kiddo wants to hunt for. Throw in a raincoat or umbrella too.
5. Plastic Bags
Diaper blowouts and wet pants aren’t the only kinds of biological messes kids make. If you have a kiddo who gets carsick, you know how hard it is to get that smell out of your upholstery. Be ready for the surprise stomach bug and stuff plastic bags in your seat-back pocket. You’ll be glad you did.
6. Change of Clothes for You
Here’s something nobody tells you until it’s too late: Pack an extra shirt and a pair of bottoms for yourself. When accidents happen in the car, they rarely limit themselves to just the kid. A basic tee or comfy shirt tucked in your trunk will take you from “disaster zone” to “presentable-ish” in 30 seconds flat.
7. Calm-Down Kit
When big feelings hit in a parking lot or during a long drive, having tools for emotional regulation at the ready makes all the difference. A small sensory item like a stress ball, along with a Pop-It, a soft fabric square, and a tiny notebook with crayons for drawing out those feelings, is all you might need. The kit reinforces that emotions can be managed anywhere—and like the books in the backseat, you’re building a habit you want to see stick.
What else would you put on a list of things a mom should have in her car?
