Yesterday, someone asked me why I still carry my baby bag with me every single time I leave the house, even when I’m just going to pick up my eldest from school.

It’s a fair question, I guess. The school run is about 20 minutes each way, so 40 minutes total. My baby doesn’t get out of her car seat during that time, and honestly, most days she doesn’t need anything at all. She eats before we leave, or if it’s not her mealtime, she’ll have a little snack and I always make sure she has a clean diaper before we head out.

So technically, I could just hop in the car without the big bag. But I don’t.

Because here’s the thing, anything can happen.

We drive on a busy, fast moving road. And while everything usually goes smoothly, I’ve seen what happens when it doesn’t. An accident can turn a 20 minute drive into 90 minutes stuck in traffic, or even longer. And when you’re stuck in the car with a baby, especially a baby who’s hungry, wet, or uncomfortable, those minutes stretch forever.

So yes, I bring the bag.

Even when I think I won’t need it.

Even when I’m 99% sure everything will go just fine.

My baby bag is always packed with the essentials:

-Water

-A snack or two

-Diapers and wipes

-A change of clothes

-And anything else she might need, just in case.

It gives me peace of mind. It makes me feel prepared. And honestly, it makes those short trips feel a lot less stressful because I know I’m ready if something unexpected happens.

So no, I’m not overdoing it. I’m just being a mom.

Because when you’re traveling with small kids, even a short trip is still a trip. And being prepared doesn’t make you paranoid , it makes you practical.