This is especially the case with newborns – it seems the smaller the baby, the bigger the bag. When you’re an exhausted parent, making sure you’re prepared for any eventuality can act as a big barrier to leaving the house. But as long as your bag is packed with the essentials – for you and for baby – you’ll be more than ready for any day out.
for baby
baby wipes
Made from just two natural ingredients (water and fruit seed extract), WaterWipes vegan, cruelty-free and sensitive baby wet wipes are the world’s purest wipes, meaning they’re the number one choice for newborns.
nappies
Keep these regularly topped up with more than you think you’ll need (8-10), just in case one day you dash out without replenishing. Why not also check out our nappy changing article?
nappy bags
These are so teeny you can pack a lot in without taking up space.
changing mat
There’s no need to get an all-singing, all-dancing mat to change their nappy. Just a thin, easy-to-pack one will work fine.
feeding
A bottle or two of formula, if using, or a cover for breastfeeding(again, if using).
baby sun or winter hat
Weather depending! For more info on protecting your little one from the sun check out our baby heat rasharticle.
‘distracter’
A little toy to help entertain them if they’re grizzly or to distract them while changing their nappy.
spare socks
Because babies’ socks fall off and disappear at an alarming rate.
muslins
Handy for so many things – mopping spillages, using as a comforter, etc.
for you
door and car keys
Maybe keep a spare set in this bag, permanently? Being locked out with a baby is not the one.
purse
It’s easy to focus on your baby's needs, and forget about yours, but there’s nothing worse than finally making it to that new-parent coffee meeting without your money.
water
Particularly if breastfeeding as you’ll get so thirsty.
phone
For the photo ops, naturally.
hand sanitiser
To get rid of those post-pooey-nappy germs.
Next time you venture out with your little one we hope this changing bag checklist helps you focus on the essentials to take!
Looking for more information like this? Why not have a read through our other handy lists on our Parenting Community: