Hello there, fellow new mama. If you’re reading this with a little bundle in your arms and a very tired brain, you’re in the right place.
One of the most common questions new parents ask is: what do I actually need in a baby changing bag? Between sleep deprivation, conflicting advice, and a rapidly growing baby, it can all feel overwhelming.
Your baby changing bag quickly becomes your everyday survival kit. Whether you call it a nappy bag, baby bag, or “mum’s emergency kit”, this one item will go everywhere with you — so it needs to work hard.
Let’s break it down properly.
Why a Baby Changing Bag Is Essential
At some point — usually when you’re furthest from home — your baby will have a nappy blowout, need feeding, or suddenly decide that now is the moment to be uncomfortable.
A well-packed baby changing bag means:
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You can deal with mess calmly
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You’re not rummaging through pockets in a panic
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You feel confident leaving the house
It’s not about being over-prepared. It’s about being prepared enough.
What to Pack in Your Baby Changing Bag for a Day Out
Here’s a realistic, mum-approved list of what you actually need when heading out with your baby.
Nappies
The golden rule: pack one nappy per hour you’ll be out, plus a couple extra. Newborns are experts at timing their messes.
Wipes
A non-negotiable. Baby wipes handle nappies, hands, faces, spillages — everything. Reusable wipes are a great eco-friendly option and surprisingly effective.
Another absolute essential, somewhere leak proof and smell containing to stash that soiled outfit, used nappies or wipes.
Changing Mat
A foldable changing mat or blanket gives you a clean, safe surface wherever you are. Public changing tables aren’t always as baby-friendly as we’d like.
Nappy Cream
A small tube goes a long way and can help prevent irritation if you’re out longer than planned.
Spare Clothes
Always pack at least one full outfit — babygrow, socks, and a hat. Nappy blowouts are a when, not an if.
Feeding Essentials
Breastfeeding mums may need breast pads, a muslin, and a bottle of water (hydration matters). Formula-feeding parents should pack bottles, a hot thermos and pre-measured formula.
Blanket or Muslin
Useful for feeding, changing, warmth, shade, or comfort.
A Small Toy
Even newborns benefit from distraction. A soft toy or rattle can work wonders.
Snacks & Drinks (for you)
Parenting is hungry work. Pack something easy — you’ll thank yourself later. Add a reusable water bottle to one of the easy to grab outside pockets for quick hydration on the go.
Your Essentials
Wallet, phone, keys, medication — easy to forget when your focus is on baby.
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What to Look for in a Good Baby Changing Bag
Not all changing bags are created equal. A good one should make life easier, not harder.
When choosing a baby changing bag, look for:
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Hands-free carrying (especially useful when pushing a pram)
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Wide opening so you can actually see what’s inside
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Multiple compartments for easy organisation
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Insulated pockets for bottles or snacks
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Wipe-clean, water-resistant fabric
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Comfortable straps for longer days out
A bag that works well in the newborn stage should still be useful when your baby becomes a toddler — and beyond.
Backpack vs Tote Changing Bags: Which Is Better?
This comes down to lifestyle, but for many parents, backpacks win.
Backpack changing bags
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Hands-free for prams and carrying baby
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Better weight distribution (kinder on your back)
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Easier for longer outings
Tote-style changing bags
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Quicker access for short trips
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Can suit parents who prefer shoulder bags
There’s no “wrong” choice — but if you’re out regularly or juggling more than one child, a backpack-style bag is often the most practical.
Common Mistakes New Parents Make When Choosing a Changing Bag
These are easy to avoid once you know what to look for:
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Choosing a bag that’s too small
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No insulated pockets for bottles
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Not enough pockets
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Prioritising style over function
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Buying a bag that only works for the newborn stage
A good changing bag should adapt as your family grows.
Why I Designed the Green Cheeks Changing Bag
If I may be so bold — this is exactly why I designed the Green Cheeks bag the way I did.
It’s a backpack-style changing bag, keeping your hands free for baby and pram. There are two easy-access outer pockets, a strong structured main compartment with internal organisation, and a front section with insulated bottle pockets and snack storage — because snacks are inevitable.
Most importantly, it’s designed to be used well beyond the baby stage, in bright, joyful prints that don’t feel disposable.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baby Changing Bags
Do I need more than one changing bag?
Most parents use one main bag, but many keep a smaller wet bag packed for short trips.
Can a changing bag be used as a hospital bag?
Yes — many backpack-style changing bags work perfectly as hospital bags.
Is a backpack changing bag better for your back?
Generally, yes. Backpacks distribute weight more evenly and are more comfortable for longer use.
Do you still need a changing bag after the newborn stage?
Absolutely. Toddlers still need spare clothes, snacks, wipes, and drinks — the contents just change. We still take a "parents bag" with us almost everywhere, as even at 7, you never can tell when you're going to need a spare pair of clothes, snacks and a face wipe.
Final Thoughts
Your baby changing bag will quickly become one of the most-used items you own as a parent. When it’s packed well and designed properly, it gives you confidence to leave the house and enjoy those early days a little more.
Parenthood is messy, beautiful, exhausting, and wonderful — and the right bag won’t solve everything, but it will make the day-to-day just that bit easier.
You’ve got this.
— Lianne x
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