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Do I Really Need a Changing Bag? – What To Know Before You Buy

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When on the go with a new baby, there are many items that you will inevitably need as you travel or go out for the day. These items include diapers, wipes, a changing pad, and bottles, among others. Rather than carrying these items in your hand and possibly dropping or misplacing them, many mothers opt to take a changing bag from place to place.  

You need a changing bag if you’re travelling with an infant or toddler. Babies are in constant need of diaper changes, and carrying a changing bag is a convenient way to ensure you have diapers and wipes no matter where you are.

The range of styles, colours, and types of changing bags to choose from is almost limitless, as there are many different models on the market. It can be fun to choose one, as they are both functional and stylish.  

What Is a Changing Bag?

A changing bag is a bag made of fabric, nylon, leather, or another material, used by parents to carry baby items such as diapers, wipes, bottles, and any other essential item used for baby care.

Changing bags are ideal for keeping baby care items organized and accessible while on the go.

How Much Do Changing Bags Cost?

Changing bags can cost as little as £10 for a bargain bag to around £500 for designer bags, but most fall somewhere in the middle. There are many brands and styles to choose from that are within an affordable price range. 

Some of the top bags are highlighted here, along with their prices and some of their unique features.   

Anyday John Lewis & Partners Changing Backpack£Changing mat and insulated pouchBuggy clips,
Adjustable shoulder strap
Babymel Robyn Convertible Backpack££Four-way convertible bag,
Pockets with Easy-wipe pocket, Water-resistant
Skip Hop Forma Backpack££Lightweight, quilted fabricPacking cubes
Spacious interior, side bottle pockets
Bubble & Pop Baby Changing Bag££Colorful, bright patternsSpacious
Contains pockets with labels for baby items
The Everywhere Bag    £££Waterproof, Nylon, leather, or special-edition fabrics,
Can double as a work bag or gym bag
Fact + Fiction Lea Backpack£££100% recycled lining
Zippered pockets and compartments, Water-resistant outer lining

Advantages of Using a Changing Bag

A changing bag is a valuable item for new mothers and parents. There are many advantages of owning and using a changing bag, including the following: 

  • Changing bags can hold all necessary baby items, including bottles, diapers, wipes, a changing pad, and clothes, among others.  
  • It often contains compartments that help keep your baby items neat and organized. 
  • Changing bags can have waterproof linings for easy cleanups in case of spills
  • A shoulder strap on your changing bag can be useful for hanging up or onto a baby stroller while traveling. 

Disadvantages of Using a Changing Bag

While owning and using a changing bag is often a must-have, there are drawbacks to carrying one. Listed below are a few cons to using one.  

  • Changing bags can be large and bulky, inconvenient and difficult to carry, and take up too much space. 
  • Changing bags can be pricey, some costing in the hundreds. 

Factors To Consider in Getting a Changing Bag

Compartments.

It will be best to obtain a bag that contains compartments and pockets that will help you stay organized and allow your baby items to be accessible and easy to reach.

Many bags are constructed with specific pockets for diapers, bottles, and other things, and some even include a changing pad for easy diaper changes.  

Easy to Clean.

It is vital to obtain a waterproof or water-resistant bag in case of spills and other stains. Babies can be messy, and carrying around bottles and performing diaper changes do not always result in clean changing bags. Therefore, you will want to choose a bag that is easy to clean. 

Roomy Enough.

Although you don’t want something overly large and bulky, you will need enough room to carry bottles, diapers, a changing pad, a change of clothes, and other items.

Many mothers use their changing bag as a purse stowing their personal belongings such as a wallet, keys, and other essentials within it.   

Stylish.

With so many styles, colors, and patterns, a changing bag can be fashionable as well. You will use it for many months, so you should choose one that you like.  

Cost.

One of the most crucial factors may be the price of your changing bag. Fortunately, many brands offer affordable choices in bags if you are on a budget.  

Alternatives to Using a Changing Bag

The only alternative to purchasing and using a changing bag is to carry the essential baby items you need in a purse or handbag that you already bring with you. Some women find that they can fit diapers, bottles, and other items into a purse or rucksack rather than spending the money on a new changing bag.  

Do I Need a Changing Bag?

You need a changing bag when travelling with your baby. Whether you purchase a new one or opt for one you already have, a changing bag is an essential item to keep all of your wipes and diapers in one convenient place. 

A baby must be fed and changed repeatedly each day, so you should carry the necessities of diapers, bottles, and other fundamental elements in a bag set aside for this purpose. When making your baby’s wish list, you should include a changing bag.