What to pack in a changing bag? The complete checklist so you don't forget a thing

What to pack in a changing bag? The complete checklist so you don't forget a thing

The changing bag is the parent's Swiss army knife when out and about. Too light, and you find yourself without a clean nappy at the worst possible moment. Too heavy, and you're carrying the equivalent of a weekend of camping for an hour at the park. The good news: there is an ideal list to know what to put in a changing bag, tailored to baby's age and the type of outing. Here it is, complete and ready to use. 🎒

📋 The ultimate change bag checklist

🍼 Feeding

  • Bottles ready (pre-measured formula or breast milk in an insulated pouch)
  • Cordless portable bottle warmer (for long outings)
  • Bibs (minimum 2-3)
  • Replacement teat + dummy clip
  • Teething feeder (from 4-6 months, for teething)
  • Small jars or pouches of purée (from weaning)
  • Silicone spoon

👶 Change

  • Nappies (allow 1 nappy per hour out + 2 spare)
  • Unscented wipes
  • Portable changing mat
  • Anti-irritation cream
  • Plastic bags for dirty nappies
  • Hand sanitiser

👕 Clothing

  • 1 to 2 complete changes of clothes (1 top, 5 bottoms + trousers + socks)
  • A light Sleeping bag or a blanket, depending on the season
  • Hat (sun hat or beanie depending on the weather)

🧸 Comfort and development

  • Comfort toy (always, mandatory)
  • 1 small developmental toy or rattle
  • Replacement dummy

Healthcare and care

  • Forehead thermometer
  • Nasal aspirator
  • Sun cream (from the first sunny days)

🍼 Focus on weaning nutrition

For bottle-fed babies

For long runs, a cordless portable bottle warmer completely changes the game — no need to look for a microwave or order a glass of hot water at the cafe.

→ See the PetitMaxou cordless bottle warmer

The feeder dummy, a teething ally

There food feeder pacifier is an ideal teething accessory: baby can slip a piece of cold fruit inside to soothe their gums.

→ See the PetitMaxou teething dummy

Bibs: always plan for more than you think

The golden rule: always double the number of bibs you think you will need.

→ View the bavoirs silicone PetitMaxou

→ View the PetitMaxou animal-print cloth bibs

👶 Spotlight on changing on the go

How many nappies to pack?

The rule of thumb: 1 nappy per hour of planned outing + 2 spare nappies. A newborn may require up to 10–12 nappy changes a day; a 6-month-old, 6–8.

🧸 The comfort toy: never leave home without

The comfort toy always travels with your baby once they’ve become attached to it. Ideally, keep a spare in the nappy bag at all times.

→ View all doudous and PetitMaxous

🩺 The little first-aid kit

  • Forehead thermometer compact, fast, contactless.
  • Nasal aspirator for babies with colds who cannot yet blow their noses themselves.
  • Sun cream suitable for babies (SPF 50+) as soon as you go out in the sun.

→ See the PetitMaxou forehead thermometer

→ See the PetitMaxou nasal aspirator

📅 Adapting the changing bag according to age

Baby changing bag for 0 to 3 months

This is the time when the bag is at its fullest. Be generous with nappies, bibs, spare outfits and breastfeeding or bottle-feeding gear.

Baby changing bag for 6 to 12 months

Weaning introduces meal items. Baby is starting to take an interest in their surroundings — a fabric book or a small Montessori toy in the bag is always welcome.

Changing bag for 12 to 24 months

We’re gradually lightening the load. The comfort toy remains essential. We’re adding a small snack and a bottle of water with a spout.

💡 Our top tips for a well-organised changing bag

  • Recharge the bag as soon as you get home — not to do it «tomorrow».
  • Use zipped pouches to group the items by category.
  • Keep an emergency kit in the car : 2 nappies, wipes, a bodysuit.
  • Photograph the contents of your bag to find out what is missing.

❓ FAQ — The changing bag

How many nappies should I put in the changing bag?

The rule of thumb: 1 nappy per hour of planned outing + 2 spare. Better to bring some back home than to run out.

Which changing bag should I choose?

Opt for a bag with multiple compartments, an integrated changing mat or a dedicated pocket, sturdy handles and pram attachment straps.

How many change of clothes should I pack?

At least one complete outfit for short outings. Two outfits for long days or if baby is going through a heavy spit-up phase.

🛍️ Stock up your nappy bag at PetitMaxou

All the accessories mentioned in this article are available from PetitMaxou: bibs, teething dummies, portable bottle warmers, forehead thermometers, nasal aspirators, doudous… Free delivery throughout the European Union, returns within 14 days.

→ View the entire PetitMaxou shop

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