The best changing bags of 2024: tried and tested by real parents

best changing bags

by Samantha Ball |
Updated on

A baby changing bag is an absolute necessity, but finding one that you love and enjoy carrying around is equally important. You'll be taking the bag everywhere with you, so you'll need to find one that's not only comfortable to use but practical enough to fasten onto a pushchair and fit in everything that you need.

Many modern options for changing bags can be amazingly practical, with rucksack changing bags including loads of side pockets. Many options have internal compartments (sometimes colour-coded), bottle holders, and dirty nappy compartments.

Best baby changing bags at a glance:
Editor's choice: Gigil Luxe (2.0) Changing Backpack - Buy now on Amazon UK
Best practical baby changing bag: The Bloom Changing Backpack - Buy now on Amazon UK
Best spacious baby changing bag: Disney Baby Changing Backpack - Buy now on Boots
Best lightweight baby changing bag: Skip Hop Forma Changing Backpack - Buy now on Amazon UK

Some have multiple straps that you can attach to your newborn's pushchair, and they are designed so you can hang them from your shoulder or wear them as a backpack. It's always good to check what comes with the changing bag, as some will come with a matching travel changing mat, thermal bottle holder, and even a wet bag for soggy clothes.

Baby changing bags are an essential baby item, so much so that there are also baby changing bags for dad, and it's a good idea to have at least one changing bag packed and ready to go at all times.

How we test and choose recommended products

Every year, we thoroughly test and review the best new products on the market, including the best baby-changing bags. We can then bring you comprehensive reviews from real parents who've tried out the bags in real life. Discover who the Mother&Baby Award Winners 2024 are.`

Our product recommendations are based on a combination of real-world testing from our burgeoning army of mum testers and the extensive knowledge of our experienced editorial team and product specialists. Where we can, we also consult experts who specialise in that field to ensure you get the right advice along with the right product, and we listen to what you say as well.

Our thriving mum community on our Facebook group #mumtribe consistently provides great insights into which products mums like best and why, helping us highlight the products that will meet your needs.

For essential products, our annual Mother&Baby Awards shortlist the top products tested. Full reviews from our mum testers can be found on our product pages. The winners and runners-up for each category will also appear in our top picks article for that product, along with other products that were rated highly by our team.

When it comes to testing changing bags, we considered various aspects of each product including how stylish it was, how practical it was, how easy it was to clean, how comfortable it was, the capacity, and ease of use. In terms of combining a large but stylish changing bag, we love the Dooky changing bag which has a great design, but is also really large with a 15L capacity. Having said that, it didn't feel as durable as others such as the Thule changing bag which felt incredibly robust.

And although more pricey brands like the Kerikit impressed us with the design and amount of storage, we also found that some of the more budget options like the BabaBing changing bag was great too. The Cosatto bureau bag is not only fun to look at, but we loved the across body design and the space it provides for days out, however, the Ickle Bubba Cross body changing bag was petite but great for a quick trip out with baby. In terms of keeping bags clean, the Stoksak is incredibly practical because it is made from scuba material, but the Nuby changing bag is wipe clean and waterproof which we also loved.

Now it's time to shop from the best baby-changing bags that parents and Mother&Baby shopping experts have recommended.

The best baby changing bags 2024

Editor's choice

Expert rating:
4.5
Gigil Luxe (2.0) Changing Backpack©Gigil

The Gigil Luxe (2.0) changing backpack features a range of pockets, dividers, zipped compartments that make it an ideal changing bag for those early days with a baby when you have so much gear to take everywhere with you.

This is a stylish backpack that mums and dads will be comfortable wearing, while it has a cute embossed giraffe for a little character that your child will love once they grow up too.

The Luxe (2.0) bag is an updated version which now features more eco-friendly credentials, such as the leather being sustainably sourced and vegan. It’s available in four different colours, with coordinating zips for each colourway.

There are two insulated pockets for keeping snacks and drinks at the right temperature. The pram clips are vital and we wouldn’t buy a changing bag without them, allowing you to hang the bag off the pram handle and save yourself some backache. The capacity is large, at 22 litres – plenty of space for everything you need on a day out.

Parents like this backpack because of the premium, vegan leather, and because it looks more like a regular backpack than a standard, frumpy changing bag. This gives it longevity as you’ll be able to use it beyond the nappy days. One mum commented, "It is so practical as well as stylish. There are three main compartments inside, with an additional internal zipped compartment. It has a further zipped compartment on the front of the back and a concealed compartment on the back plus side pockets.”
A definite benefit of this changing bag is that it comes with a one-year warranty, meaning the brand really believes in its product and wants you to be happy with your purchase.

We tested this changing bag as part of the Mother&Baby Awards 2024, where it won Gold for Best Changing Bag.

Read our full Gigil Luxe Changing Backpack review.

Pros

  • Made from sustainably sourced vegan leather
  • Features lots of pockets and compartments
  • Chunky straps make for comfortable carrying
  • Includes vital pram clips
  • Made from water-resistant material
  • Comes with a one-year warranty

Cons

  • One of the pricier changing bags available
  • Other bags have more colour options
Material:Soft vegan leather
Capacity:22L
Dimensions:H45cm x W30cm x D17cm
Weight:1.2kg
  • Two interior insulated pockets
  • Four interior compartments
  • Four external pocket
  • Gigil changing mat (59cm x 30cm
  • Pram/buggy clip
  • Adjustable padded backstrap
  • Water-resistant

Best practical baby changing bag

The Bloom Changing Backpack©Gigil

The Bloom Changing Backpack is a vegan leather backpack with a unisex design, suitable for all parents. Just like the Luxe (2.0) we reviewed above, this is a changing bag without looking like one.

It features nine different compartments, two external zipped compartments and one interior zipped compartment. The straps can be adjusted to suit the wearer (you'd be surprised how many changing bags have straps that can't be altered), and it also comes with a changing mat and buggy clips.

This is a really spacious backpack, and one of our mum testers, who has five children, found she could fit in everything she needed for all of her little ones. Another mum tester said: "The Gigil Bloom backpack is the most practical baby changing bag currently on the market. The bag is larger than most backpacks which allows for ample space to hold essential baby items. The bag has nine impressive compartments for easy access and makes for good organisation."

We tested this changing bag as part of the Mother&Baby Awards 2023, where it won Gold for Best Changing Bag.

Read our full Bloom Changing Backpack review.

Pros

  • Made from waterproof material
  • Plenty of individual compartments for even the biggest families
  • Unisex design to appeal to all parents
  • Includes a changing mat
  • Made from vegan leather

Cons

  • Pushchair straps aren't adjustable
Dimensions: 45 x 35 x 20cm
Pockets: Four insulated pockets, three interior pockets, and five exterior pockets
Material: Saffiano Faux/Vegan Leather
Changing mat included: Yes
  • Four insulated pockets
  • Three interior pockets
  • Five exterior pockets
  • Gigil changing mat (62cmx 32cm)
  • Pram/buggy clips
  • Adjustable backstraps

Best spacious baby changing bag

Disney changing bag©MOTHER&BABY

The Disney changing bag is a Disney-designed backpack that indulges in your Disney character favourites as well as being completely practical. This is certainly a changing bag that your little one will want to borrow when they’re older. Characters featured include Bambi, Thumper, and Marie the kitten; one mum said: “I love the design on the outside of the bag with all the Disney characters, too. We've had many complements on this bag. I've struggled to find a bag with space in the past, but this bag has tons of space and different compartments, making it so much more spacious." We do think the design could have included more than just three characters, however.

The charm of the design doesn’t detract from the practicality, though; this bag features all the elements you need in a changing bag. There’s a variety of pockets and compartments, with zipped pockets on the outside for smaller items and larger compartments inside for nappies and other essentials. The elasticated pockets on the sides are ideal for bottles. 

We like the wipe-clean material, which makes it extra practical, although some parents were disappointed that it doesn’t come with a changing mat, unlike most other brands of changing bags. This is a definite down point as you will have to buy one separately. 

Padded should straps make this comfortable to carry, and you can easily attach it to your pram with the integrated D-rings. 

We tested this bag as part of the Mother&Baby Awards 2023, when it won Silver for Best Changing Bag.

Read our full Disney Baby Changing Backpack review.

Pros

  • Features three Disney characters 
  • A must for Disney-loving parents 
  • A practical bag with plenty of storage 
  • D-rings to attach to your pram 
  • Plenty of compartment space 
  • Child-friendly Disney print 
  • Padded back and shoulder straps for comfort when carrying

Cons

  • The Disney design won’t appeal to all parents 
  • The lack of a changing mat is a definite downside
  • Could feature more than just three characters
Height:40cm
Material:Polyester
Changing mat included: No
  • Grab top handle
  • D-rings to attach to your stroller
  • Elasticated side pockets for bottles
  • Padded back and shoulder straps for your comfort

Best lightweight baby changing bag

5% off

Expert rating:
4.5
Skip Hop Forma Changing Backpack©Amazon
Price: £64.99 (was £68.71)
Alternative retailers
Target$78.99View offer
Kohl's$79.00View offer
Macy's$79.00View offer

This Skip Hop Forma Changing Backpack feels lightweight to carry and the quilted detail makes it stand out from other changing bags on the market. It’s different to other changing bags as it features what the brand calls ‘packing cubes’ - they’re supposedly designed to make it easier to compartmentalise all your baby gear and make it easier to find stuff when you need it; in reality, it might be a bit of a gimic that not everyone will be interested in. Essentially it means there are a couple of pouches that fit inside the bag; one mum tester said “The two separate little bags that sit in the front pocket are handy for little bits and bobs,” while another commented: “Storage cubes are an additional bonus and help keep everything neat and tidy”.

Taking the cubes out means you have a big spacious pocket, so it does offer flexibility - this is good when baby gets older and the type of gear you need to take out with you changes. 

Our favourite feature of this bag is the large zip around the main compartment that makes everything easily accessible, so you’re not digging around for a spare dummy when your baby is having a meltdown; one mum tester commented on the roomy nature of this bag and said: “This backpack has so much space for everything I need to carry. I especially like the front pocket that fits my purse and keys in perfectly, there is even a pouch for my mobile phone. It may sound like a small thing but my changing bag I had before did not have this and I was always rummaging to the bottom to find my keys.” 

It’s available in five colours, and it’s a good size for carrying a laptop once baby grows and you want to keep using the bag. 

The only real downside to this bag is the size of the changing mat; one mum said: “A bigger mat also makes it easier for those occasions where you have to change the nappy in the car, it covers more of the seat. This small one was a nightmare for that!” We all know how vital it is to have a changing mat that’s big enough - but at least this changing bag does include a changing mat, unlike some others we tested. 

We tested this changing bag as part of the Mother&Baby Awards 2022, when it won Gold for Best Changing Bag. 

Read our full Skip Hop Forma Backpack review.

Pros

  • Made from wipe-clean material
  • Handy packing cubes to keep gear separated 
  • Extra-wide opening means it’s easy to find small items 
  • A lightweight bag that’s easy to carry 

Cons

  • Changing mat is a bit too small 
Dimensions:40.6 x 35.5 x 20.3cm
Pockets:Minimum of five, including insulated side bottle pockets
Material:100 per cent polyester with PU backing
Changing mat included:Yes
  • The Baby diaper bag that keeps all baby essentials organised, featuring multiple interior and exterior pockets
  • Spacious size at 16"x8"x14", this will hold everything for baby plus your essentials
  • Included with the diaper bag are two packaging cubes; one insulated cube perfect for bottles and beverages and a multipurpose mesh cube for clothing or snacks 

Best changing bag for accessories

Save 20%

Expert rating:
5.0
Bababing-Erin-Changing-Bag-1©MOTHER&BABY
Price: £107.49

If you’re looking for a changing bag that comes with loads of accessories, the BabaBIng Erin changing bag should be top of your shortlist. It comes with loads of extras - and they all match - including: a large changing mat, stroller straps, bottle holders, and two separate pouches that are insulated for keeping food and drinks at the right temperature; one mum tester said “This bag includes so many extras - sold separately these items would cost almost double the price.”

A particularly useful feature is what they call ‘the parent pockets’ - two pockets designed for your gear, such as phones and keys, to keep them safe and separate from nappies and wipes. We like this feature as it just makes it so much easier to find your important valuables without rummaging around among crayons and Sudocrem. 

BabaBing has a reputation for making good quality but reasonably priced changing bags, and this is no exception as it’s clear to see the craftsmanship that’s gone into the design; as one mum tester said: “I have used this bag for over six months now to see whether it would stand the test of time. Often, when I use a changing bag, it starts well. Then, slowly, you realise that it isn't practical, or parts begin to break. This is not the case with this Erin Changing Bag - if anything, quite the opposite."

The only real downside is that it currently only comes in two colours, however they are colours that most people will be happy to wear. Testers did also note that the shoulder straps weren’t as strong as they could be. 

Read our full Bababing Erin Changing Bag review

Pros

  • Bag comes with loads of extras 
  • Parent pockets keep your valuables safe 
  • Made from wipe-clean material 
  • Changing mat is extra large 
  • Includes stroller straps 

Cons

  • Only available in two colours 
  • Backpack straps aren’t as strong as they could be 
Dimensions:44 x 34 x 20cm
Pockets: Minimum seven with two pouches and a thermally insulated removable bottle holder
Material: Fabric with leatherette details
Changing mat included:Yes
  • ‘Best of both worlds’ in terms of using the changing bag as a conventional over-the-shoulder or rucksack-type changing bag
  • Deep main section of the changing bag allows a multitude of items to be packed
  • An external and internal ‘parent pocket’ allows items such as; house keys, car keys, purses, wallets etc to be safely secured with instant access when required

Best eco-friendly baby changing bag

Babymel Georgi Eco Convertible backpack©MOTHER&BABY

The Babymel Georgi Eco Convertible backpack is made from recycled plastic bottles, making it stand out among other changing bags that we’ve tested - it’s the ideal choice if you want an eco-friendly bag. 

Our testers like this bag as it’s really lightweight and versatile; one mum said: “You can carry it on your pushchair, as a backpack or as a shoulder bag, so it is useful when on the go in a hurry. It looks so stylish but super casual at the same time.” Our mum tester, Olivia, says, "size-wise it’s ideal, I can pack everything I need for the day and more. I was concerned it would be a bit too long in shape, but the zips go quite far round the sides so it’s easy to rummage around for stuff at the bottom."

We tested the ‘caramel leopard’ design, which animal-print lovers will prefer, but it’s also available in a more traditionally styled striped design - although that pattern might make your eyes go funny. 

Testers like the wide opening of the main compartment, as well as the pocket on the front - it’s perfectly sized for a packet of wipes and makes finding them easy; one mum said: “Every time I wear it, I feel like a kid with a new school bag showing it off”. Olivia, our mum tester, was impressed with the design, commenting, "The side pocket for wipes is revolutionary! I’ve neverhad a changing bag with this feature before and I absolutely loved it, so easy to grab them for quick clean up after snack time. There’s a plastic window which helps to keep the wipes moist without the protective seal on the wipes packet – but I did find some wipes stayed wetter better than others." 

The material is water resistant and wipe-clean - a necessity when it comes to keeping a changing bag looking presentable. You do get a changing mat included with this bag; plus it’s washable. We also appreciated the insulated lining, meaning snacks and drinks are kept at the right temperature - for up to four hours, the brand claims. 

You can buy a pram organiser from Babymel, too, although it doesn’t come in the same patterns as the changing bag, which is a shame. 

Overall, our mum tester, said, "I would definitely recommend this changing bag, the only thing I can think of to make it better would be a zip near the bottom of the
bag to make accessing the stuff at the bottom a bit easier, but this is just a
feature I’ve seen on other bags that I’ve thought was handy."

Pros

  • You can wear it as a backpack or messenger bag 
  • Sustainably made from recycled plastic bottles
  • Handy wipe-sized pocket at front
  • Made from water-resistant material
  • Includes straps to attach to your pram
  • Easy-to-use wide opening 

Cons

  • Only two designs that won’t appeal to all 
  • Hard to access items near the bottom of the bag
Dimensions:37 x 32 x 14cm
Pockets:Seven, including insulated bottle pockets
Material:Recycled plastic bottles
Changing mat included:Yes
  • Water-resistant outer material and lining
  • Modern look that is perfect for everyday
  • Made from recycled plastic bottles
  • Wide opening with secure double-zipped closure  
  • Machine washable padded changing mat

Best baby changing bags for pockets

15% off

Expert rating:
4.5
best-baby-changing-bags-Allis-plus
Price: £16.99 (was £19.99)

 
The Allis City Plus changing bag looks smaller than most changing bags we test, but it’s hiding a lot of pockets - 16 in total - and includes a changing section which folds out so everything is right there ready for nappy changes. It’s not a large enough area to combine the changing mat into one ‘station’, however it is handy that all those wipes, nappies, bum cream, and other gear is all in the one space; one mum tester said: “It is clear that the bag has been built with a mothers’ needs in mind as I am able to stay much better organised with this as opposed any other normal bag.” It’s definitely spacious despite looking more compact. We like the small pocket for dummies and the wet pocket for dirty wipes or nappies. 

There’s flexibility in how you can wear the bag; as a cross-body bag, shoulder bag, tote bag or backpack. Plus, it comes with clips to attach it to your stroller; however, one mum tester commented: “If I could change one thing about this bag, it would be to shorten the width. I have found it doesn't fit the average pushchair” - so make sure you check the measurements before purchasing if you’re likely to attach it to your pram frequently.  

This changing bag comes with a thermo-insulated holder to keep bottles warm or cool for up to four hours. The material is wipe-clean, which went down well with mum testers; “I love how the bag is waterproof, which is helpful if you get caught in the rain, and it is wipe-clean so that if it gets dirty, you can clean it easily with a baby wipe.” 

This is one of the cheaper bags we’ve tested, and certainly gives you a lot of pockets for your cash.

We tested this changing bag as part of the Mother&Baby Awards 2018, when it won Silver for Best Changing Bag. 

Read our full Allis City Plus Changing Bag review.

Pros

  • Multiple ways of wearing 
  • Features 16 pockets 
  • Great dummy pocket and section for wet items 
  • Made from wipe-clean material 
  • Buggy clips included

Cons

  • Width makes it unsuitable for some pushchairs 
  • Some mums think it’s too big if you have just one child
Dimensions: 40 x 26 x 16cm
Pockets:16 pockets
Material: Polyester
Changing mat included:Yes
  • Designed by parents, for parents
  • Contains all of the essential storage pockets you need for when you are on your travels. These include a teether holder, two insulated bottle holders as well as two external bottle holders, a large internal central compartment, and additional external pockets 
  • The baby travel bag also includes a collapsible baby changing station, which is fully waterproof and is designed to be used with the changing mat included 
  • Designed so you can wear it in numerous ways. First of all, it can be used as a backpack or across the body thanks to its unique removable shoulder strap

Best stylish baby changing bags

Storksak St James Luxe Scuba Changing Bag©MOTHER&BABY

This Storksak changing bag is one of the most fashionable changing bags we’ve tested, and we like how flexible the design is; you can wear this as a shoulder bag, backpack, or cross-body messenger bag. Our Commercial Content Writer, Laura Healy, was impressed with the style of this bag saying, "I love how versatile it is and how it can be worn in different ways, which is great when I want to wear it as a messenger bag, and then my husband prefers it as a backpack. It is really easy to transition between styles. However, it is quite wide when worn as a backpack and does feel quite bulky on your back."

The internal compartment is spacious, and there are seven smaller compartments, too; one dad tester said, “I love how many pockets there are as I can keep everything separate and clean, keeping my valuables safe and separate from nappies and food.” There are two further adjustable side panels for even more capacity; this is definitely one of the roomier changing bags that we’ve tested. 

The bag is made from scuba material, setting it apart from other bags; this makes it protective against spillages, as well as being water resistant; one mum said: “I love this bag!! The scuba is such an amazing material and seems really hard-wearing.”

Laura Healy commented, "This is a great bag, with lots of room and the additional accessories of the changing mat and insulated compartment are brilliant. The changing mat feels larger and more padded than other travel changing mats but doesn't take up all the room. I also love the resilience of the fabric, which will withstand bad weather and spills of all kinds. While it is a practical nappy bag, with lots of space for spare clothes, nappies, snacks, bottles, wipes and my personal accessories such as phone, purse and keys, it looks very stylish and doesn't immediately scream nappy bag so could also be used on days out with older toddlers or children as well."

Pros

  • One of the roomiest changing bags you can buy 
  • Machine-washable material
  • Durable scuba material 
  • Wipe-clean and water-resistant
  • Comes with matching insulated bag for food and drink
  • Detachable stroller clips

Cons

  • Quite bulky and wide when worn as a backpack
  • One of the highest-priced changing bags 
Dimensions:  37 x 34 x 17cm 
Pockets: Seven pockets
Material: Durable scuba material
Changing mat included: No
  • Durable scuba material
  • Water-resistant outer & wipe clean lining
  • Convertible; backpack/shoulder bag/cross-body 
  • Seven pockets: nappies, wipes, storage & iPad
  • Metal feet
  • Adjustable side panels to increase capacity
  • Padded back 
  • Grab handle

Best baby changing bags for multiple storage

Save £50

KeriKit Changing Bag©MOTHER&BABY
Price: £145 (was £195)

kerikit.com

This KeriKit Amber changing backpack has multiple pockets and compartments, meaning there’s a safe space for everything you need to take out with you on a day trip with baby. Once baby is older, you can continue to use this as a laptop bag - it fits a 14-inch laptop neatly. It’s really designed to be a flexible backpack that happens to work well as a changing bag; one reviewer said: “No longer do I have to dig or unpack to find that spare nappy - it also makes it so much easier to restock, ready for a trip out of the house.” Our Senior Writer, Samantha Ball, said, "The bag is absolutely beautiful, it doesn’t feel like a baby bag at all which my husband loved. There’s plenty of internal storage space, and it comes with a matching baby changing mat that’s easy to clean too."

This is another eco-friendly option, as it is made from recycled nylon, and it’s very lightweight to carry. However, this doesn't impact the quality, as Samantha, says, "The bag sits nicely on your back and doesn’t feel heavy even when it’s full, and it also comes with clips to hook onto the pram too, which compared to others I’ve used are really easy to do and actually stay on. The material of the bag feels luxurious, and it’s super easy to clean, which along with practicality is one of the most important things in a baby bag. "

Although this is one of the pricier changing bags we’re featuring, the longevity and flexibility of this bag make it worth the investment. Samantha comments, "It feels hard wearing, and I could see this lasting beyond the baby years and used as a day bag too."

To add to its practicality, the material is easy to wipe down and keep clean; one tester said: “The material is easy to wipe down, and the side pockets are waterproof, which is ideal for bottles - if there are any spills, I know they won't ruin my baby's emergency outfits.” 

If you’re bottle feeding, then you’ll be impressed with the capacity to hold six bottles in the integrated bottle holders. There are also separate pockets for your valuables, such as keys and phones.

Pros

  • Flexibility as a regular backpack as well as a changing bag 
  • Plenty of room for bottles 
  • Lots of extras included, such as a dummy holder and D-rings
  • Made from recycled materials 
  • Fits a 14-inch laptop 
  • Made from wipe-clean material 

Cons

  • Wipe clean but not washable
  • One of the priciest changing bags 
Size:L34 cm x W20 cm x H35 cm
  • Fits laptops up to 13"
  • Elasticated Pockets for Nappies, Wipes, Charging Cables, Toiletries
  • 2 Insulated Bottle Holders
  • Perfectly Placed Internal Side Pockets
  • Roomy Interior
  • Super Light

Best messenger style changing bag

Cosatto Changing bagLaura Healy

Cosatto is great for fun designs and we love that you can co-ordinate your changing bag with your pram. This changing bag is not just about style though, it is extremely practical too. Mother and Baby's Commercial Content Writer, Laura Healy, says, "it is a great, spacious bag with large interior pockets to hold wipes and nappies, with even enough space for a change of clothes. However, it doesn't feel bulky and sits neatly across your body, or is flat enough to lay under your pram."

It includes a handy changing mat for when you are out and about as well as an insulated bottle holder. We Aldo love the co-ordinated patterned lining, and the zip pockets for parents' own personal items as well as a key holder. Our writer, Laura Healy, adds, " it feels like a very durable fabric which also wipes clean easily both inside and out." Although, she notes, "the bird designed which is embroidered in the corner is beautiful but delicate with threads likely to come loose, or fray with lots of use, which won't impact the use but it won't look as pretty."

With an adjustable shoulder strap, a magnetic closure and exterior pockets for quick access to things like your phone, this is a really well designed bag for mums on the go.

Pros

  • Design can co-ordinate with your pram
  • Large interior pockets to organise baby items

Cons

  • Embroidered bird might quickly look worn
Inner pockets: 2
Exterior pockets: 2
Accessories: Bottle holder and changing mat
  • Adjustable shoulder strap
  • Co-ordinated patterned lining
  • Bottle holder and changing mat included
  • Large interior pockets
  • Magnetic closure

Best backpack changing bag

Thule changing backpackLaura Healy
Price: £129.95
Alternative retailers
Target$129.99View offer
Saks Fifth Avenue$129.95View offer

It might not be the most exciting bag to look at, but it is extremely practical with various compartments and pockets to hold everything you need for a day out with your little one. We love how the fabric feels extremely thick and durable and yet the back pack is extremely lightweight. It includes a well padded changing mat, as well as a drawstring bag and a separate smaller zip bag to store baby's essentials. Our Commercial Content Writer, Laura Healy, says, "this bag is very deceptive. It looks compact but once opened it really does hold a lot and it is great for organising your things. I love the separate velcro compartment at the bottom for baby's spare clothes, or nappies."

It also features a spacious front pocket which is kept closed with a magnetic clasp, ideal for things you need to keep to hand like your phone, purse or a toddler's snacks. With adjustable straps it is suitable for all sizes and it is comfortable to wear too. The black fabric is practical and will not easily mark, or show stains if you have a spillage, plus it is wipe clean. That said, Laura Healy, added, " while the bag is cleverly designed to store and organise everything you need, and it is suitable to fit everyone, the straps are quite thing and would benefit from a little padding, especially when the bag is full and heavy."

Overall, this is a robust and well designed bag, ideal for a day out. Plus it will match well with any Thule pram too.

Pros

  • Robust, durable fabric
  • Lots of storage compartments

Cons

  • Thin straps could be more padded
Dimensions: 8.89 x 34.01 x 45.01 cm
Weight: 1.09 kg
Accessories: Changing mat, drawstring bag and zipped bag
  • Durable, robust fabric
  • Lots of storage compartments
  • Accessories including changing mat
  • Lightweight

Best compact changing bag

Ickle Bubba Cross body changing bagLaura Healy

This might seem small, and it certainly won't hold all you need for a day out, but it is surprisingly spacious. Our Commercial Content Writer, Laura Healy, says, "this is a comfortable bag to wear, with a soft fabric strap, which you can wear across your body. Plus, while it is compact, it has different sections for all the essentials like nappies, wipes, purse, phone and keys. You could even fit in snacks for older siblings."

It also includes an insulated bottle holder and changing mat, although once these are in the bag they do take up quite a bit of space. It does have four pockets so you can organise your stuff easily and it would be perfect for every day on the school run, a play date or coffee date, or even a night out (with baby!). Laura Healy commented, "I love that the bag looks so stylish and isn't obviously a changing bag. The leatherette is so soft to touch too."

Pros

  • Soft leatherette material
  • Four different pockets

Cons

  • Too small to hold all your essentials for a day out
Material: Leatherette
Number of pockets: 4
Accessories: Changing mat and bottle holder
  • Stylish changing bag
  • Soft material
  • Includes changing mat and bottle holder
  • Adjustable strap

Best waterproof changing bag

Nuby Changing bagLaura Healy

In a lovely shade of soft grey, we love how many pockets this changing bag has so you can really organise all your essentials. Plus it is waterproof and wipe clean. Our Commercial Content Writer, Laura Healy, says, "this bag comes with a great padded changing mat and really does provide lots of space to carry all you need when out and about. I love all the pockets and compartments to help make everything easily accessible."

The backpack also has adjustable straps and extendable bottle holders on the side, which we think is really handy. Featuring a large central zipped compartment, 5 zip pockets, 4 inner pockets and 1 pocket at the back to store the wipe-clean change mat, this will really be appreciated on those family days out. However, some reviewers felt like the zips could be stronger because they feel a bit flimsy. Laura Healy says, "this bag feels durable, but the fabric is thinner than others. However, it is comfortable to wear and a great size."

Pros

  • Various storage pockets for organising your essentials
  • Waterproof and wipe clean

Cons

  • Zips feel flimsy
Material: 100% polyester
Number of pockets: 10
Dimensions: 38 x 30 x 12cm
  • Lots of storage pockets
  • Waterproof and wipe clean
  • Includes changing mat
  • Extendable bottle holders

Best large changing bag

Dooky changing bagLaura Healy

With 15L capacity, this bag is perfect for carrying everything you need and we know, with babies, that can be a lot! It feels luxurious too with a grey mélange fabric that makes it look stylish. It also has 7 pockets with 4 on the outside and 3 inside, so it is easy to stay organised.

Our Commercial Content Writer, Laura Healy, says, "this is a really spacious bag, but it doesn't feel bulky to wear. In fact, the fabric feels very lightweight. With a wide fish mouth opening, it is easy to access your stuff and all the pockets really do make organisation much easier." We also love that this bag is vegan and contains no animal products.

It includes a changing mat and has a zip at the back to help you access anything at the bottom of the bag. The changing mat does feel very thin though, so won't provide much comfort and some of the metal finishings feel a bit weak. However, we do like the silver zips which nicely contrast the grey material.

Pros

  • large capacity for all your essentials
  • Zip at back providing easy access to the bottom of the bag

Cons

  • Changing mat included feels a bit thin
Dimensions: 30 x 12 x 45 cm
Material: 100% Polyester
Number of pockets: 7
Capacity 15L
  • Stylish design
  • Includes changing mat
  • 15 capacity
  • 7 pockets

Best Tote Changing bag

My Babiie Changing BagCarly Duffy

You can use this bag as a tote bag, or attach a shoulder strap and wear it across your body which we think is very useful. Plus, we love the soft blush colour too. It does come in other colours so you can co-ordinate with your other baby accessories. However, it is not just stylish but comfortable as well. Our mum tester, Carly, says, "Comfort is well and truly key with these kind of things, and I can confidently say that through the arm strap and the two handles, this is both comfortable and lightweight."

With lots of useful pockets this is both practical and stylish, Carly says, "it comes with so many compartments that not a single thing will be forgotten – it even comes with a compartment for a hot drink, so if you’re formula feeding you can bring along a hot flask, or if you’re breast feeding – get that coffee on the go!"

However, do be aware that our mum tester was a bit disappointed with the overall finish, commenting, "unfortunately, there were some design flaws in the bag that arrived for me, from poor stitching on the label to threads coming loose. It’s nothing that makes the bag bad, but it’s not ideal for a £40 changing bag either."

Overall, this is a handy changing bag for mums on the go and Carly loves how easy it is to clean, saying, "the material is easily wipeable, so if there are any leaks at all, it won’t be an issue, which is a benefit for any parent!"

Pros

  • Easy to wipe clean
  • Comfortable to carry as a shoulder or tote bag

Cons

  • Finish is lacking, with loose threads and poor stitching

Choosing the right baby changing bag for you

First of all, you need the best baby changing bag to carry around everything you need for your baby, including nappies, clothes, bottles, wipes, spare clothes, and items for loud events such as baby ear defenders. So, when looking for the right one for you, it's important to consider the following:

• Separate pockets for placing everything in the right place

• More than one way to wear it - do you want to wear it cross-body, over your shoulder, or as a backpack?

• Thermo-insulation to keep bottles warm or cool (or an insulated bottle holder)

• Stroller-friendly with two clips for easy attachment

• Built-in changing mat or additional matching changing mat

• A design that goes with your style

• Wipe-clean fabric

• Dirty nappy compartment

• Detachable mini bags for food storage

• A light-coloured interior or see-through pockets so you can spot everything

• Anti-odour technology

Do I really need a changing bag?

You could technically use any old bag, but a baby changing bag is going to become a must-have for the first few years. Not only will it provide you with all the space you need, but it also makes sure nothing gets forgotten. Instead of panic-packing nappies in your handbag before you leave the house or emergency buying whilst out and about, having a dedicated baby changing bag will ensure you've got it all in one place.

It also helps that baby changing bags are fit for purpose; they're designed to be durable, have all the pockets, and many come with a baby changing mat included. It'll last through the baby years and beyond, and with our pick of bags you'll actually want to carry, you can repurpose them when you no longer need them for baby duty.

What can I use instead of a changing bag?

Whilst a changing bag is a worthwhile investment, there are alternatives if you're looking to save money and re-use what you already have at home.

The best alternative option is a practical backpack that's suitable for parents; they're typically large in size, easy to use and carry, and free up your hands for looking after your bubba. You can find some great backpacks on the market with an array of pockets. However, if yours just has one large compartment, you can split this up using smaller pouches for different items, i.e. clothes, nappies, toiletries, and more. The perfect excuse to get out a label maker, too!

What should you pack in your changing bag?

The NCT recommends that you should pack the following:

• A changing mat if it's not built into your bag, plus alcohol-free and fragrance-free wipes

• Bags for dirty nappies or clothing should there be any nappy leaks

• Barrier cream, if necessary, to protect your baby's skin

• Three to four clean disposable nappies, or liners and covers if you're using cloth nappies. How many you need depends on how long you'll be out for and how old your baby is

• A change of clothes for baby - just in case!

• Portable toys to keep them entertained on the move

• Food for your baby.

What our writer keeps in her baby changing bag:

• A muslin cloth - to act as a mini blanket or changing mat as these are less bulky

• Nappies and changing essentials - wipes, nappy bags and nappy cream

• Snacks in storage bags

• A change of clothes

• Board book with touch and feel pages

• Little toys include - a small bag with wooden biscuits, toy car, fidget toys

• Mini first aid kit with Calpol, plasters, bandages and wipes

If you're breastfeeding, you may need to pack clean breast pads or a breastfeeding shawl. If they're on formula, you may need to pack sterilised bottles and formula powder. If they're a little older, it would be worth having some purees or finger foods to hand.

You might also want to pack a muslin cloth, great for breastfeeding, spillages, comforting, and more.

Samantha Ball is a Product & Lifestyle Writer for Mother&Baby and freelanced for the website for two years before joining the team full-time. She's a mum of two and loves browsing for the best products and cute outfits.

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