What to Pack in your Changing Bag

9 September 2024

Heading out with a baby?

A well-packed changing bag is an absolute necessity. As all experienced parents know, a day out with your little one can be unpredictable. From nappy changes to snack times, having everything you need can make the day go smoother.

Your choice of changing bag depends on how long you'll likely spend out of the house which determines the size you'll need. If you've got more than one child, you'll also need a bigger bag. Budget is obviously a constraint too. Plus ideally you'll want a changing bag that isn't just useful while your children are in nappies. To find out more, read our guide to the best baby changing bags 2024.

This guide will walk you through the essentials and a few extra items that can be lifesavers when you’re away from home. We've created this checklist which you can copy into your note taking app to check through before you head out.

For ease, we've split it into two. Firstly, there's the items that will need replenishing each time you go out, for example nappies and wipes. Then there's the items that you'll just replace each time you use something up such as a change of clothes etc.

Here’s a checklist of essential items of what to put in your changing bag:

Replace when Used or Soiled

Changing Mat
Barrier Cream
Change of Clothes
Sunscreen
Muslins
Toys
Bibs
Teething Gel
Hand Sanitiser

Nappies

How many nappies is depending on how long you'll plan to be out. As a rule of thumb, pack one spare nappy for each two hours you plan to be out, plus at least two extra for newborns and just one extra for older babies. This ensures you’re prepared for any unexpected delays or messes.

Generally if you're using reusable nappies you'll be able to reuse the outer layer unless it is especially soiled. This will take up less space in your changing bag too.

Did you know you can get FREE or discounted reusable nappies? Find out more about council reusable nappy schemes and the national nappy incentive scheme.

Nappy Bags or Wet Bag

Nappy bags are important for disposing of used nappies or for holding soiled clothes. They help keep odours contained and make clean-up easier. Choose from disposable nappy bags, or take a look at our selection of reusable nappy wet bags.

Wipes

Wipes are indispensable not only for nappy changes but also for wiping faces, hands, and even surfaces. Here at the Nappy Gurus we recommend reusable wipes as they contain no nasty ingredients so are great for your babies skin. They're also eco friendly and will save you £500 over two years. Read our beginners guide to reusable wipes.

'Such an incredible value choice, everything needed to get started. We love cheeky wipes so much and they are such an easy switch saving tonnes of money as well as waste.' Product Review

Bottles

If you’re bottle-feeding, pack sterilised bottles, pre-measured formula or expressed breast milk or pre-prepared bottles, along with clean baby bottles and teats.

Breast Pads

If you’re breastfeeding, prevent any leaks with some spare breast pads.

Keys

Make sure you have your house and car keys.

Phone

Keep your phone charged and close at hand for emergencies or to capture those special moments.

Replace when Used or Soiled

Changing Mat

A portable changing mat provides a clean surface anywhere you need to change a nappy. We recommend a foldable changing mat that can either be wiped clean or chucked in the wash like the Cheeky XL changing mat.

'We love this changing mat. It is a great size and very soft. Easy to fold up again and fits in our changing bag.' Product review

Barrier Cream

To prevent nappy rash, a good barrier cream or nappy rash cream is essential. Apply it during changes to protect your baby’s sensitive skin. Packing a small tub is helpful, rather than a larger tub.

Change of Clothes

Always carry an extra outfit for your baby – accidents happen, and having a clean set of clothes for your changing bag just in case is a good idea. It's also a good idea to have at least a spare top for yourself. Having had a baby poo literally all over me as I boarded a plane once, I can verify how essential this is!

Sunscreen

If you’ll be outdoors, carrying a travel sized bottle of baby-friendly sunscreen is a good idea to bring.

Muslin Squares

Muslin cloths are incredibly versatile for everything from burping to providing a light blanket or a clean area for baby to lay on. If you pack a couple of these, you can skip packing a baby bib!

Toys

A few small, soft toys can keep your baby entertained and calm.

Bibs

Keep a couple of bibs handy to protect clothes during feedings.

Teething Gel

If your baby is teething, a tube of teething gel can help soothe their gums and reduce fussiness.

Hand Sanitiser

Amazingly, not all baby changing areas have got basins in them! Keep germs at bay with a small bottle of hand sanitiser, especially after changes or before feeding.

Are Baby Changing Bags necessary?

Yes, it's important to have a bag which is specifically for your baby changing needs as it just makes parenting SO much easier when you're out and about. However this doesn't need to be an expensive and specific baby changing bag. Ideally you will want a bag with insulated bottle pockets to keep milk warm is helpful if breast feeding and stroller straps also makes life easy too.

Shop Changing Bag Essentials:

Reusable Nappies

Reusable Wipes

Changing Mats

Conclusion

Packing your changing bag doesn’t have to be complicated. With this guide and checklist of what to pack in your baby changing bag, you can ensure you’re prepared for anything a day out might throw your way.

Got more questions or need advice? Drop us a line, or check out our advice section or blogs which might be of interest:

About the Author: Helen Rankin, an advocate for sustainable living, embarked on her journey with reusable products when her first child was born in 2004. Facing limited options in cloth nappies, Helen’s passion only grew, leading her to launch Cheeky Wipes in 2008, right before welcoming her third child.

Helen's commitment to being a nappy lady and promoting sustainable solutions led to her taking over The Nappy Gurus in 2024. Today, 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.