Baby Changing Bags Must-Haves

Babies have SO MUCH STUFF. It’s really easy to get overwhelmed when packing for a day out with a little one. Personally, I prefer to stick to just the essentials. I’m not someone who wants to lug the entire nursery with me “just in case.” I find bringing just the must-haves means I’m not only carrying less around but it’s easier to find and grab things when I need them.
I’d say my diaper bag is a decent size but compact, and minimal compared to many of the ones I see others carrying around. I wanted to share my must-have items.

But first, what bags do I use?

What I look for in a baby changing bag:

Backpack style: Personally, I prefer a backpack style diaper bag. It makes you 100% hands-free. Plus, husbands don’t mind toting them around.

Not too big: As mentioned above, I prefer to not have to bring a lot with me. Some people might prefer to have everything “just in case” but that’s just not my style. Having a bag that’s not too oversized prevents me from overpacking. It forces me to stick to JUST the essentials which makes trips out a lot easier.

One-handed zip: Something I discovered pretty quickly into going out with a baby is hands are a hot commodity. A bag that requires both your hands to zip closed can be annoying. The zipper tag needs to be large enough to see and easily pull closed. 

Pockets, pockets, pockets: Obviously, pockets help organise all the baby stuff. I NEED pockets where I can put a water bottle and baby bottle. I also prefer a front pocket for quick-grab stuff like my mobile. I prefer for the baby bottle pockets to be on the inner as I want my bag ‘not to look like a baby bag’ - I may be a Mum but I can still be a stylish one at that and also I want to get longevity out of my baby bag. I’m know I will definitely be using my bag in years to come.  

My changing bag:

I love my POD Bag, it’s made from beautiful vegan leather and I like the fact I can wear it 3 different ways and still feel stylish as opposed to feeling like I’m toting around a diaper bag – it really is a chic bag! It is just the perfect size, wipeable, and has enough pockets for all the essentials. I particularly like the back snap pocket that you can put the changing mat into, but there also is a front pocket for my mobile, 2 insulated pockets for bottles as well as a pocket for nappies and a zipper pocket for change of clothes. And what I really love about this is that is has a keyring that you can clip your keys to. I always hated searching through a large bag to find my keys, and the stress of that when you have a baby in tow.

Changing Bag Must-Haves

Portable Changing Mat: The POD bag comes with a portable changing mat which is great as you don’t have go and purchase a mat separately. If fits nicely into the back outer pocket so it’s an easy reach at all times. 

Burp Cloths/Muslins: Ethan didn’t spit up a lot, so I can usually get away with just having one small burp cloth. If you have a baby with more reflux, you’ll want to make sure you have at least 2-3.

Change of Clothing: I keep a spare change of clothes in the diaper bag. This is great if I ever need to change Ethans full outfit. I also keep a pair of socks and a clean onesie. I also keep a t-shirt for myself in the bottom of my bag just in case there is a huge spit-up mishap.

Teething toy: Just in case, it’s good to have one! Ethan is teething at the moment so this is a must. If your baby isn't teething it at least doubles up as a toy. 

Stuff for mom: I keep lip balm, hand sanitiser, hand cream, and extra hair ties.

 
What are some of your must-have changing bag items?! What types of bags do you like best?

We would love to hear your feedback

Hazel xxx