What to Pack in Your Baby Changing Bag

Heading out with a baby takes a little preparation. Whether you're popping to the shops or visiting your local library, a well-packed changing bag can make all the difference.

The good news is that you don't need to pack everything you own. Once you've got the essentials organised, you'll be ready for all those little surprises that can happen when you're out and about.

In this guide, we'll walk you through what to pack in your baby's changing bag during their first year, along with a few practical tips to help you stay organised.

If you're still getting ready for your baby's arrival, you might also find our guide to what to pack in your baby hospital bag helpful.

Baby changing bag essentials

What you pack will naturally change as your baby grows. Here's a handy checklist for each stage of your baby's first year.

0–6 months

During the first few months, you'll probably find yourself changing lots of nappies and reaching for spare outfits more often than you expected. Having everything organised in one place makes heading out a little less stressful.

Nappies and changing

• Nappies – pack more than you think you'll need (around 4–6)
• Portable changing mat – many changing bags include one
• Baby wipes
• Nappy sacks – for easy, hygienic disposal
• Nappy cream – if your baby is prone to nappy rash
• A waterproof or reusable wet bag for soiled clothes

Clothing

• Two complete changes of clothes, including a vest, sleepsuit or outfit and socks
• Extra layers or lighter clothing, depending on the weather
• A blanket

Feeding

• Bib
• Burp cloth

If you're breastfeeding:

• Breast pads
• A muslin or lightweight cover if you'd like extra privacy

If you're formula feeding:

• Pre-measured formula powder
• Sterilised feeding bottle 
• A flask of freshly boiled hot water
• Or ready-to-feed liquid formula - for advice on formula feeding away from home safely, see the NHS guidance. 

Other essentials

• One or two muslin cloths – for feeding, burping and unexpected spills
• Antibacterial wipes – for cleaning your changing mat
• A small first aid kit 
• Dummy – if your baby uses one, plus a spare in a clean case
• A favourite comfort toy or book – to help soothe your baby

6–12 months

As your baby becomes more active and starts weaning, your changing bag will look a little different.

Nappies and changing

• Nappies
• Portable changing mat
• Baby wipes
• Nappy sacks
• Nappy cream (if needed)
• Wet bag for dirty clothes

Clothing

• One change of clothes
• Sun hat or warm hat – depending on the season
• Lightweight blanket or cardigan

Feeding

• Weaning-friendly snacks such as slices of fruit or prepared vegetables
• Breastfeeding or formula-feeding supplies
• Bib

Other essentials

• Broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen – only for babies over six months
• Baby sunglasses with UV protection
• A teether
• A favourite book or small toy to keep your little one entertained

What to pack for yourself

It's easy to focus on your baby's needs and forget your own. Keeping your essentials together in a small pouch means you won't be searching through your changing bag every time you need something.

• Phone
• Portable charger
• Wallet
• Keys
• Water bottle
• Snack
• Hand sanitiser
• Any medication you take regularly

Tips for packing your changing bag

Restock after every outing.

It only takes a couple of minutes, but replacing nappies, wipes and spare clothes when you get home means your changing bag is always ready for your next adventure.

Use small pouches.

If you've ever tried to find something one-handed while holding your baby, you'll know how helpful it is to keep similar items together. Separate pouches for nappy changing supplies, spare clothes and your own essentials make everything much easier to find.

Keep emergency supplies handy.

If you travel regularly, keeping a small backup kit in the car or pushchair with a few nappies, wipes and a spare outfit can be helpful.

Check the weather before you leave.

A quick look at the forecast can help you pack the right layers, hats or blankets without overfilling your bag.

Refresh your bag regularly.

Babies grow quickly. Every so often, check that clothes still fit and replace any medicines, sunscreen or ready-to-feed formula that may have expired.

What you can leave at home

It's tempting to prepare for every situation, but an overfilled changing bag quickly becomes heavy and difficult to organise.

You can usually leave behind:

• Lots of toys – one or two favourites are enough
• Full-size toiletries – travel sizes save space
• Multiple spare outfits once your baby is older – one is usually enough unless you're planning a particularly messy day
• A large changing mat – a compact foldable version works just as well

Every family is different, and you'll soon discover what works best for you and your baby. Before long, packing your changing bag will become second nature, and you'll know exactly what you need for a quick trip or a full day out.

For more helpful guides, tips, and advice for parents, visit our blog.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to take everything in my changing bag every time I leave the house?

Not at all. Your changing bag doesn't need to be packed to the brim for every outing. Think about how long you'll be out and what you'll be doing. For short trips, you may only need a few nappies, wipes, and one spare outfit. For longer days out, it's worth packing a little extra in case your plans change, or you're delayed.

How many nappies should I pack?

A good rule of thumb is one nappy for every hour you'll be out, plus one or two extras. Younger babies will usually need more frequent changes than older babies.

What size changing bag do I need?

The best changing bag is one that's big enough to carry your baby's essentials without feeling bulky or uncomfortable. Whatever size you choose, look for a bag that's easy to carry and helps keep everything organised, so you're not searching for wipes or nappies when you need them most.

Do I need a dedicated changing bag?

No. Any clean bag that's comfortable to carry can work as a changing bag. Dedicated changing bags often include practical features such as wipe-clean linings and a fold-out changing mat, which can make life a little easier. But the most important thing is that your bag has enough space for your baby's essentials.

Can I leave nappies and wipes in my changing bag?

Yes. Many parents keep their changing bag stocked at all times, so it's ready to grab whenever they need it. Just remember to check that your nappies are still the right size as your baby grows and replace any wipes that have dried out.

What should I pack in my baby changing bag during summer?

Alongside your usual essentials, pack lightweight clothing, a sun hat and sunscreen suitable for babies over six months. Wherever possible, keep your baby in the shade and out of direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.

What should I pack in my baby changing bag during winter?

Add a warm hat, extra layers and a cosy blanket to your usual essentials. If you'll be spending time outdoors, a rain cover for your pushchair can also come in handy.