Top tips for packing your nappy bag

We get it! When your bundle of joy finally arrives, you’ve just got too much on your plate to handle everything at once. For the days when you feel overwhelmed, we have created a list of all the things that shouldn’t be missing inside your nappy bag if you want to have a successful outing with the family.

Time to grab a pen and paper! These are the basics you will need to ensure are not missing from your nappy bag before leaving the house:

1.Nappies, wipes and nappy rash cream

That seems obvious but trust us… it’s an easy one to forget!!

You might have gone out the day before and used a couple of nappies and wipes from your nappy bag and completely forgot to replenish these when arriving home. Also, from time to time check the size of the nappies you are carrying and make sure that you are carrying the correctly sized nappies in your nappy bag before they become too small. This will happen very quick!

2.Change mat

You never know where you are going to have to change your baby’s nappy. Even the cleanest public toilet is never clean enough for your baby and you also want to make sure that you don’t leave any surprises lying around for future visitors.

We specially like the change mats with an easy-wipe surface, so it is much easier for you to keep it clean with a quick wipe.

3.Hand sanitizer

After Covid-19 we can comfortably say that we are more aware of the importance of keeping our hands properly sanitized always. Make sure that you keep good habits and always keep a bottle of hand sanitizer inside your nappy bag.

4.Plastic bags

This is very basic but so very important! You are going to find yourself in countless situations where you must dispose of a very smelly nappy or carry home your baby’s dirty clothes to join your endless laundry duties. Carrying a couple of plastic bags inside your nappy bag can be a life saver!!

5.Nursing cover and breast pads (if you are breastfeeding)

For those moms breast feeding, the breast pads are essential as well as a nursing cover (we always recommend swaddle blankets) which can be very helpful in order to give you and your baby some privacy during eating or nap time.

6.Bibs, spoons, food and water (for older babies and toddlers)

If you’ve passed the bottle or breast feeding period and your little one is on solids… Do not forget to include snacks in the nappy bag!! A toddler’s tantrums when tired or hungry are notoriously uncomfortable and stressful. Making sure that you are able to comfort your child with some food and water at any given time will help to avoid many challenging situations while out and about.

7.Cardigan and extra clothes

We have discussed previously how you might have to carry home dirty clothes but afterwards… have you remembered to pack a clean set? For obvious reasons ensure that they are your baby’s current size and pack an extra cardigan in case you find the weather is taking a turn.

8.Sunscreen and a hat

Especially important for families living in countries with high sun exposure, like South Africa. A good, strong, certified kids’ sun cream will be most needed to care for your baby’s skin. And for those whose kids absolutely won’t put on a hat, make sure you carry one in your nappy bag.

9.First-aid kit

The truth is, with kids, you never know what is waiting around the corner and you just need to be as well prepared as possible for falls, bumps, sore tummies, etc… We are not suggesting you carry an entire hospital supply in your nappy bag but some of the most common care items you can think of.

We hope you find this list helpful!

We have a wide range of nappy bags available in store and online, find the style that suits your needs best.