From bottles to changing matts, nappies to endless changes of clothes and tons teeny tiny socks there’s no denying that babies come with a lot of stuff.
It’s why I’ve packed away my beloved Chloe Tess cross body and faithful & Other Stories tote, to make way for a more appropriate handbag to lug all that stuff around in, ready for my impending arrival later this month.
Afterall, getting to grips with a buggy and the small task of keeping a small human alive is no mean feat. The last thing new mums need to be worrying about is their handbag not fitting the daily necessities in.
So I’ve been road testing as many baby changing bags as possible. Not only to find the most practical, but a baby changing bag that doesn’t ruin all my outfits and even one my boyfriend won’t mind lugging around too (although that’s a tough ask, more on that later).
Here are the six best options for a baby changing bag you won’t mind ditching your handbag for…
Best for compact style
Price: £69
Material: 100% recycled polyester
Milk bottle storage: One thermo-insulated bottle holder
Changing matt: Not included
Number of pockets and compartments: Seven
Pram attachment: Two stroller clips included
Let me start by saying, I absolutely love this bag. As a leopard print fanatic, the muted tones, abstract print means I’ll be happily switching my handbag for this.
It can be worn over the shoulder (and it doesn’t scream baby changing bag) or strapped to the pram. The stroller clips it comes with are sturdy and make the bag so easy to grab from when your hands are full.
It may be my pick of the bunch for style, but it is on the small side. Better suited to quick trips out as it’ll fit your necessities in for a few hours, but not much else.
Best luxury buy
Price: £165
Material: Polyurethane with 100% polyester lining
Milk bottle storage: Two insulated bottle holders
Changing matt: Included
Number of pockets and compartments: Eight
Pram attachment: Not included, but two D-rings that easily attach to stroller clips (bought separately)
One for parents of twin babies or if you like to carry a ton of stuff with you, this backpack has space for everything – two insulated bottle warmers, side pockets for wipes or nappies and even has a laptop sleeve.
The insulated bottle holders can keep milk (or your bottle of water) hot or cold for up to four hours.
Meanwhile the gold hardware and sleek vegan leather ensure you’re not neglecting style, even if it is for a family day out at the park.
Best alternative to a backpack
Price: £68
Material: Organic cotton
Milk bottle storage: Two elasticated pockets, not insulated
Changing matt: No
Number of pockets and compartments: Six
Pram attachment: Not included
If you fancy something a little different, this super soft cotton tote could be just what you’re looking for.
The quilted design and burnt orange colour is stunning and will cheer up a dark outfit or compliment a black pram.
It has multiple pockets for baby bits and bobs and a long canvas strap as well as short handles which make it versatile. In fact, it could easily double as a hospital or overnight bag and comes in two other colours.
Best for both mum and dad
Price: £99
Material: 100% polyester
Milk bottle storage: Removable insulated bottle warmer included
Changing matt: Included
Number of pockets and compartments: Nine
Pram attachment: Not included
This backpack may not be the most stylish of the bunch, but it’s one of the most practical. And the on-trend sage green colour gives it extra bonus points. As does the concealed zip on the back for money, keys and bank cards.
It comes with a bottle holder, changing mat, and separate storage for wet and dry clothing.
The best thing about this bag is its unisex appeal – I promise it’s the one that your partner will happily throw over their shoulder for a day out. And it’s worth noting if you’re looking at the Ocarro pram from Mamas and Papas, this backpack comes as part of a money-saving travel bundle.
Best baby changing bag if you’re on a budget
Price: £33.99
Material: PU leather
Milk bottle storage: Two pockets, not insulated
Changing matt: Not included
Number of pockets and compartments: Ten
Pram attachment: Two buckles included
Good old Amazon comes through here with a backpack that’s less than £35 – a tough ask in the expensive world of baby changing bags.
The beige faux leather backpack has clever detachable handles that can also be worn cross body or attach to the pram, to suit your style.
It has a magnetic opening, ideal for getting into one handed and it fits a surprising amount inside, including separate internal compartments for wet and dry clothes.
Best if you want to use your normal handbag
Price: £59
Material: Cotton canvas
Milk bottle storage: Two thermo insulated bottle pockets
Changing matt: Included
Number of pockets and compartments: 11
Pram attachment: Not included
Not ready to part with your own handbag yet? Upgrade your existing bag to a baby-proof version with this insert.
It’s clever design slots inside most standard-sized tote bags, to give you a whopping 11 pockets and compartments (more than any of the bags I tested) to separate your stuff.
It comes in black and sand and is also available in a compact size if you’d rather fit it in a smaller handbag. It will hold a laptop and has card holders and a pocket for your mobile, making it ideal for work, too. Not just your average baby bag!
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