Potty training on the go: Our Top Tips

Potty and toilet training can be a challenge, even in the comfort of your own home. When you’re out and about, it can feel like an overwhelming task!

When my twins were small I had quite a few challenging days when we started potty training but one that stands out was when I whipped the travel potty out expecting a number 1 to be clapping a number 2 - in Boots on the High Street - in the sun cream aisle!

With the right preparation, mindset, and tools, you can make potty training on the go a smoother experience for both you and your little one. In this guide, we’ll share tips and some great products from The Nappy Gurus and our sister website Cheeky Wipes to help you navigate potty training while travelling or running errands.

Remember to - 

1. Plan Ahead

2. Get Equipped

3. Pack Essentials

4. Prepare Your Child

5. Start Small

6. Keep it Fun

7. Be Flexible, Patient, and Supportive

1. Plan Ahead

This will make everything less stressful. Before you set off, make sure you know where the nearest toilets or baby changing facilities are on your journey and at your destination. Many shopping centres, service stations, and parks offer family-friendly toilets, but it’s worth doing a quick search online beforehand.

It’s also helpful to build potty breaks into your plans - so you don't get caught out like I did. If you’re on a long car journey, plan stops at regular intervals to give your child the chance to use the potty before they are desperate or before they wet themselves while you were trying to pull over. It is so easy for them to lose confidence at this stage.

2. Get Equipped

A travel potty is a must-have for families on the move. Compact and portable, they are perfect for situations where public toilets aren’t readily available. Some little ones prefer the familiarity of their own potty and are afraid of restrooms - hand dryers, strangers, cold seats, doors clanging - so taking the potty they know will lead to calmer, dry days out.

The Nappy Gurus stock a range of travel potties that are lightweight and easy to carry with lids to hold in wee and poo - My Carry Pottys are bright with fun, friendly animal designs, let your big pant wearer choose their favourite to help with potty training success. They are a great aid to the potty training process as they are easy to clean,

If your toddler prefers going on the main toilet consider a potty training seat -perfect for use at home and easy to take out with you too.

We used to struggle to make it home from school without accidents and wet shiny new shoes from holding it all day (those reception toilets don't smell good) so a portable urinal like The Whizzer can come in really handy to help your child learn to stay dry!

3. Pack Essentials

When potty training on the go, you’ll want to be prepared for every possible scenario. Make sure to pack:

• Wet Wipes: Keep a pack of Cheeky Wipes handy for quick clean-ups. Cheeky Wipes offers reusable cloth wipes that are gentle on your child’s skin and the environment.
• Hand cleanser: It’s not always possible to wash hands right after using the potty, so hand / nappy cleanser is essential.
• Spare Clothes: Accidents happen, so it’s smart to bring along a full change of clothes.
• Wet Bags: Wet bags are perfect for storing soiled clothes or reusable wipes. Cheeky Wipes offers waterproof, odour-proof bags that make life easier on the go.

Having these essentials packed and ready will ensure you're prepared for any situation.

4. Prepare Your Child

It’s important to talk to your child about what to expect when going out. Explain that they’ll still be using the potty, just in a different place. Practice at home by using the travel potty or training seat, so they are familiar with it before heading out.

Make sure they know you have the potty with you and reassure them that accidents are okay. If possible, show them where the toilets are or explain how the travel potty works. Follow signs that your child is ready - it is a good idea to train your child when they are aware enough to make it successful.

5. Start Small

Start with short outings to help your child adjust to potty training away from home. A quick trip to the park or the shops is a great opportunity for practice without the pressure of a long day out.

Over time, as your child becomes more comfortable using the potty on the go, you can extend the length of your trips.

6. Keep it Fun

Potty training doesn’t have to be stressful—it can actually be a fun experience! To make potty time more enjoyable for your child, bring along some books, toys, or even a special potty-time song. You could introduce a reward system with sticker charts or small treats for successful potty trips.

When you make potty time feel like a fun adventure, it encourages your child to stay positive and engaged in the process. Let them help to choose the supplies you buy.

7. Be Flexible, Patient, and Supportive

Above all, it’s important to be flexible and patient. Potty training is a learning process for your child, and accidents are bound to happen. Your child will take cues from you, so try to remain calm and positive, even when things don’t go as planned. Offer lots of encouragement and praise when your child does well, and provide reassurance when they need it.

Potty training on the go can seem daunting, but with a little planning, the right equipment, and a positive mindset, it’s manageable. Equip yourself and you’ll be ready to handle any situation that comes your way.

Happy potty training! 

If you'd like to read more have a look at What to pack in your changing bag.

If you have any questions or want to share your potty training experiences, feel free to leave a comment below, check out our website or contact us directly. Your comfort and confidence in and out of the water are our top priorities. Happy swimming!

About the Author: Kirstin on our fantastic customer services team loves spending her days helping customers with their reusable period product needs and advising cloth nappy using families.

Kirstin lives with her three teenagers and loves walking, cycling and sea swimming year round in our beautiful bay.She is excited to share her extensive knowledge and enthusiasm for all things reusable, helping a new generation of parents navigate eco-friendly choices for their children.