When you become a parent, you soon realise there are a million and one things to think about at any given time. Checklists can come in very handy when you’re responsible for taking care of a little human. They do all the remembering for you - less time thinking about the tedious details = more time to have fun with your little one!

What to have in a nappy changing bag

Here’s a list of all the things you should keep in your changing bag that will save you from life's little thrills and spills when on the go.

• Changing Mat

Young babies may need changing up to 12 times a day, so it’s important to arm yourself with the right equipment, especially when out and about.

If you want to avoid any toxic nappy spillage from getting on someone else’s floor, you should invest in a good changing mat.

A light, portable travel mat that can be rolled up and stored in your changing bag is perfect for on-the-go parents. You’ll be able to change your baby in the backseat of your car, in a public baby change, or even behind your parasol on the beach!

It’s always a good idea to check that whatever mat you buy will fit snugly on top of your changing table (if you wish to have one). Which brings us onto the next item on our checklist…

• Portable Nappy Changing Table

A portable nappy changing table will give you the freedom you need to change your baby anywhere and with ease. Choose one that’s light, compact and can hold the changing mat securely on top.

While a nappy changing table isn’t exactly a necessity, it can help make changing times more convenient and less awkward. You won’t have to bend down over your baby to change their nappy - something you’ll really appreciate if you’ve just given birth.

A portable nappy changing table gives you the best of both worlds when it comes to changing your baby. You can fold it up and keep it out of the way when it’s not needed and it saves you and your partner from backaches!

• Nappies, Baby Wipes and Nappy Rash Cream

The holy trinity of changing time - nappies, baby wipes and nappy rash cream are three things you absolutely don’t want to be without.

If you find you’re missing one of these essential items when changing time comes around, you’re in for a very messy ride or an unhappy bottom!

We recommend keeping extras of all of these things stored in your nappy changing bag to make sure you never run out.

• Clean Sleepsuits

There’s nothing like putting on fresh pyjamas after getting nice and clean, and your baby thinks so too!

Putting on a clean sleepsuit after changing will help your baby get back to sleep easier - something that you (and others) will appreciate if you’re travelling.

It’s pretty much essential to keep more than one clean sleepsuit in your changing bag, especially if your baby loves to make a mess! We recommend purchasing a twin pack as a cost-effective option. It’ll ensure your sleepsuits are the same size and shape, so you’ll always have a backup that your little one will fit into!

• Nappy Bags or Nappy Sacks

Searching for a nappy disposal facility when you’re out and about can become a needle in a haystack ordeal. Keeping extra nappy sacks in your changing bag allows you to store the dirty nappies safely and smell-free!

Choose fragranced bags to give you better peace of mind about any lingering smells. Just don’t forget to remove them from your bag when you get home - that’s an unpleasant surprise you DEFINITELY want to avoid.

• Hand Sanitiser

When a baby’s gotta go, a baby’s gotta go. And sometimes, it can be in the most awkward places, miles away from the nearest washroom facilities. Staying stocked up on hand sanitiser is a great way to banish bacteria in emergency changing situations, keeping you and your baby safe while on-the-go.

Remember to choose a high-alcohol kind for the most effective protection!

Finally, when it comes to baby poop, you never know what you’re going to get. So it’s always best to prepare for the worst!