The ultimate guide to finding your perfect changing bag
If you pop ‘changing bag’ into a search engine you’ll be met with an overwhelming array of bags/purses/rucksacks and packs. Changing bags now come in a multitude of designs and can cater for every eventuality which is great…but it also makes choosing just the one bag a bit tricky! From compact, budget friendly options to beautiful totes which can replace your current handbag, it can be tough to decide what’s right for you. But don’t worry we have you covered!
We’ve put together the following guide to help you find your perfect match, including a DIY option for those who can't bear to part from their favourite day bag!
Considerations
Before you set off shopping just take a moment to mull over the following questions so you have a bit more of an idea of what you’re looking for (otherwise you’ll likely be tempted to go for whichever takes your fancy looks-wise, regardless of how useful it is to you!).
What's important to me?
A large changing bag that I can also use as a handbag?
A changing bag which attaches to my pram for easy access/to save space?
A compact changing bag which can fit into my current bag/can be stashed into the pram basket?
Will I be using a pram exclusively or will I be using a baby carrier? If you’ll be using a baby carrier a lot then a rucksack is a good option
Rucksack vs tote style? Rucksacks tend to be a better option if you need to carry your bag for longer periods, totes tend to be more spacious
Now you should be starting to have a little bit more of an idea of what you need. Take a look at our options below to find your perfect bag match!
The Tote changing bag
These bags tend to be on the larger side and are fitted out with many compartments for everything your baby may need. There are some beautiful designs and they tend to look like a normal handbag from the outside, so they’re great if you’d like something that doesn’t look like one of your baby items
Best for - carrying everything you could possibly need and more!
Pros - with heaps of space you can fit both baby’s and all your own belongings inside. As you can fit more in you won’t need to do the stock up of nappies, wipes etc so frequently
Cons - these bags tend to be on the large side and can be quite heavy with that much packed in, so you’ll want to stow it away in your pram basket/ensure it is able to attach to the handlebar
The Rucksack changing bag
A rucksack changing bag is also a great option to carry everything you need for a full day out. They, like the totes, have compartments to make organising all your baby gear a breeze and have the added bonus of being able to carry the bag on your back if you need extra pram space or are using a baby carrier.
Best for - a comfortable carry, so ideal for longer trips out and those using baby carriers
Pros - comfort, specially organised compartments and plenty of extra space. Versatile for use with a pram or baby carrier.
Cons - they’re a winner for those who love the rucksack life, but if you’re more of a handbag kind of person then you may not love the style. Make sure you try them on before you buy to ensure the straps are supportive and comfortable
The Pram attachment changing bag
These changing bags are specially designed to fit your pram and carry the essentials you need for a quick trip out.
Best for - carrying just what you need when nipping out
Pros - handy size for a morning or afternoon out without being overly large or heavy. They're light so won't weigh the pram down, quick to attach/remove as needed and have easy access for your phone and purse.
Cons - too small for a full day out, can’t be used with a baby carrier
The Compact changing bag
What you need to change baby and nothing else! Designed to fit under the pram, loop onto a handlebar or slip into your bag.
Best for - carrying your changing essentials and easily slipping into your pram/other bags
Pros - Super compact, with compartments to make changing hassle free. Can use with your pram or any bag it can squeeze into.
Cons - If you’re not using a pram, you need to ensure it will fit into your bag. Generally not much extra space for additional items such as changes of clothes, cloths, bottles etc
The DIY option!
This option came to light whilst researching various changing bags and staring at a favourite rucksack which had served so well tramping around London for miles every day. If only it could be converted into a changing bag with handy compartments for baby items…a few google searches later and it turns out you can find bag organisers/packing cubes to fit your current bag - result!!
Best for - the budget friendly option for those of you who already have the ultimate bag but want to turn it into a changing bag
Pros - you get to use your favourite bag, you can fit a lot inside compared to a compact changing bag and it’s kind on the pennies
Cons - if you’re nipping out for a short trip you may want something smaller (which you can justify as you’ve just made some savings!).
Having researched this extremely thoroughly (and much to the amusement of my partner) I have to admit that I now use my beloved old rucksack with a set of Amazon packing cubes…whatever works for you!
