Baby-changing bags – or nappy bags, as they’re sometimes otherwise referred to – are up there with the most important of accessories for any new mum. Alongside a nursing bra, some maternity leggings and a comfy pair of maternity knickers, being armed with one of the best baby-changing bags will make your life as a new parent a whole lot easier – irrespective of the lack of sleep. After all, the days of leaving your house with nothing but your phone, purse, keys, lipstick and a silk face mask are LONG gone.
But, the million dollar question: where can you find baby-changing bags that do their job (read: carry muslin cloths, bibs, milk bottles and other baby essentials) and looking in-keeping with the rest of your trend-led wardrobe?
Here at GLAMOUR, we’re firm believers that becoming a mum shouldn’t mean your personal style is compromised, so we’ve sifted through the bad and the ugly to curate an edit of luxe baby-changing bags – from vegan baby-changing bags and faux leather changing bags to rucksacks and tote bags – that are recommended by GLAMOUR mums, for GLAMOUR mamas. We’ve got designer baby-changing bags (think: picks by Fendi and Moschino) right through to the more affordable choices by Jojo Maman Bebe, Jem + Bea, Pacapod, Skip Hop and Tiba + Marl.
Here’s everything you need to know ahead of your baby girl or baby boy’s arrival – plus the most stylish holdalls on the market.
What is a baby-changing bag?
Changing bags are essentially handbags, holdalls or backpacks that have been designed with need to carry all of your baby’s changing items in mind. They tend to have lots of pockets, attachments and storage compartments, all aimed at making your life a little easier. And some of them are actually quite chic.
Why do I need a baby-changing bag?
When it comes to leaving the house with a newborn, preparation is key. Sure, you may not need a change of clothes, 17 snacks, three clean dummies, five clean nappies, three toys, 37 wet wipes and a couple of bottles in one trip to your favourite local brunch spot… but what if you do?
Your beloved designer handbag just isn’t going to cope with all the baby bits you’re going to need to carry for every eventuality – so it’s worth adding a proper baby-changing bag to your wishlist.
What to look for in a baby-changing bag:
- The main thing to look for in a top-rated nappy bag is something that comes with a baby-changing mat. Most do; there’s not much point in buying one without.
- You should also consider how you’ll carry it. When full, your nappy bag will be heavy, so look for something you can comfortably wear to banish the possibility of a bad back.
- Your baby-changing bag should be spacious enough to hold your entire arsenal of baby products, water-resistant or wipe-clean if possible and complete with multiple pockets. Oh, and the changing bags with the best reviews tend to have a therm-insulated section to keep baby bottles at temperature.
- Lastly, if you think you’ll want to attach your travel bag to your pram, look for one with clips for easy attachment.
What is the best baby-changing bag at a glance?
- Best baby-changing bag overall: Tiba + Marl Raf Holdall Changing Bag, £135, John Lewis
- Best convertible baby-changing bag: Babymel Georgi Eco Convertible Backpack, £69, Jojo Maman Bebe
- Best designer baby-changing bag: KENZO Tonal Monogram Jersey Changing Bag, £222, Selfridges
- Best sustainable baby-changing bag: JEM + BEA SUSTAINABLE Eco Stroller Organiser Changing Bag, £49, John Lewis
- Best compact baby-changing bag: Skip Hop Pronto Striped Changing Station Bag, £32, John Lewis
- Best baby-changing backpack: Skip Hop Forma Backpack, £70, Amazon
- Best quilted baby-changing bag: STORKSAK Poppy Quilt Black Backpack Changing Bag, £110, Jojo Maman Bebe
- Best baby-changing bag on Amazon: WELAVILA Nappy Bag, WAS £35.99 NOW £30.59, Amazon
- Best baby-changing bag for fitting to the handlebars of your pram: BABYZEN YOYO Bag, £74.95, John Lewis
After more maternity clothes? We’ve got baby shower gifts – including gift sets for the little one and early day essentials – maternity jeans, maternity nightwear, maternity overalls, maternity dresses, maternity trousers and breastfeeding tops. We’ve also found maternity wedding dresses and maternity wedding guest dresses to help you navigate wedding season.
For more from Glamour UK Commerce Writer Sophie Cockett, follow her on Instagram @sophiecockettx.
