Do you feel like you need to pack a suitcase full of baby things when you leave the house? Even if it's only for a couple of hours?  Or do you wonder why you need to pack at all and surely only a couple of nappies will do.  Trust us – a well packed nappy bag will save your day.  Here's our list of what we think you should be packing for your baby and you! 

For your baby

• Nappies – pack one for every couple of hours you’re out and a couple extra.
• Wipes – not only are they useful for nappy changes but sticky hands and surfaces too. Instead of carrying the whole packet, which can be rather chunky and heavy – you can put some wipes in a plastic bag.
• Changing mat  -  some changing rooms have paper towels to cover the changing station but many don’t so having your own lightweight one is a must and it means you can pretty much change your baby anywhere.
• Hand cleaning gel - to clean your hands when there’s no basin
  For cleaning your hands after diaper changes when there's no time or place to wash them.
• Nappy bags – So useful for everything, dirty nappies, clothes, as rubbish bags
• Bottle(s) of milk – if your baby uses the bottle (we recommend Pura)
• Dribble bibs - if your baby is teething
• Meals (if weaning)
• Snacks (for older babies and toddlers)
• Water bottles - we recommend Squeasy or Pura.

Extras, just in case

• Large muslin cloth – so versatile you can use it to cover your baby for warmth, as a shade, nursing cover, burp cloth.
• Extra clothes including bib, vest and baby gro – just for those times when you have an accident of some kind.  
• Dummy/Comforter -  if your baby uses one
• Sunscreen or a hat to protect your child from the sun
• Entertainment – a young baby may not need any toy whilst a toddler going to a restaurant will need more distractions – books, colouring paper, stickers and crayons will make your trip out much easier.
• Medicine – plasters, paracetamol sachets and any other regular medicines
• Sling or wrap for carrying your baby - sometimes your baby doesn’t want to be in the stroller, sometimes you need to park the stroller or for those times you just want to have your baby close to you.

 Don’t forget your own essentials too!

• Nursing cover – if you use a breastfeeding cover then you’ll want to take this in your nappy bag
• Breast pads if you’re breastfeeding

Have a read of some real tips from parents