There is one simple way to make sure you look like a superman or woman with minimal effort – a well-packed nappy bag.

It’s Murphy’s law that if you ever leave home without nappies (even if you think you can duck to the shops and back in just five minutes…) bub will summon a ‘number three’. And if you think you can take your toddler to the park without a spare change of clothes, the little darling will be sure to find the muddiest puddle and fall over in it.

Such is the life of a parent.

But what is it that constitutes a nappy bag that is prepared to tackle all situations? It’s actually easier than you think to keep one on hand. The key is to re-stock what you use in any given outing, so you don’t find yourself short next time.

With so many gorgeous designer nappy bags out there, most of them boasting plenty of storage space and a stack of style, there is no shortage of options to choose from.

So, let’s look at the make-up of a perfectly packed nappy bag

NAPPIES

First things first, you need to make sure the rear end is covered - it is one of the most unpredictable components of any child, so you need to make sure you have at least three nappies in your nappy bag. If your child is one who likes to half-do their business and finish the rest in a clean nappy – double that amount! If bub has a sensitive tush or has been having issues with nappy rash, be sure to include some cream or ointment as needed. A handy tip: Look for sample-sized pots to save even more space in your nappy bag. You can transfer dollops from your larger pot at home.

WIPES

These are crucial to assisting with the number one nappy bag element. You can buy smaller packs of baby wipes that will fit nicely into any nappy bag without taking up too much space. Or you can look for nappy bag designs that include a built-in wipes case, so it is easy to locate in those messy emergencies. You can use these wipes to clean their hands once the nappy change is done, or you can chuck a small bottle of hand sanitizer in there as well.

 

DUMMIES OR BLANKIES

If your baby uses a comforter of any kind, make sure you have a couple of options in the nappy bag. That way, if one gets lost, a replacement is on hand.

 

CHANGE MAT

So many nappy bags come with padded changing mats that you can just wipe down and reuse over and over again. We prefer this to the wasteful disposable options.

 

SUN PROTECTION

Sun safety is huge and it is essential to have a sun hat and special sunscreen to protect bub from harsh rays. There are plenty of sunscreen options for sensitive skin, or you could go for a natural zinc-based option.

BAGS FOR WET ITEMS

Small light plastic (which can be recycled at a supermarket) scented or biodegradable bags can be a god-send for storing soiled nappies if you are not near a bin to dispose of them or are using cloth nappies and need to bring them home to wash them. Alternatively, you can make good use of the ‘wet bags’ that come with a number of nappy bag designs, which are perfect for storing wet items and even better, are reusable.

 

TISSUES

Kind of self-explanatory. Look for the small pocket-sized packs you can buy in lots of six and you can replenish them as needed.

DRINKS

No matter whether your bub is drinking bottles of formula or breastmilk, make sure you pack plenty of supplies when you go out and about. Pack according to your baby’s feeding schedule and it never hurts to have enough for an extra feed in case you get caught up somewhere along the way. If you have an older child, include a bottle of water. These can all stay super-cool with the variety of insulated bottle holders that come with a number of snazzy nappy bag designs.

 

FIRST AID KIT

The clippers could easily be absorbed into a first-aid kit. While it doesn’t have to be too comprehensive, some baby essentials include plasters, kids pain reliver, antiseptic ointment, numbing cream (for mozzie bites), bandages and small scissors.

SNACKS

There is nothing worse than a ‘hangry’ toddler. Stave off the grumpies with nutritious snacks. This could be baby food and a spoon (don’t forget the spoon!) or containers of finger foods. Throw in a couple of bibs for good measure if bub is a notoriously messy eater.

 

ACTIVITES

For older babies and toddlers, the art of distraction can work wonders to prevent tantrums or boredom. Throw in a pack of crayons and a coloring in book, or even something as simple as a car, train, doll or rattle to keep them entertained.

MUSLIN WRAP

Muslin wraps are the best inventions ever. They can be used as newborn wraps, nursing covers if you prefer to use them, makeshift bibs, multi-purpose shades for the pram or car window, a changing pad if you’ve left the one that comes with your nappy bag at home, and a burp cloth. Make sure you have one or two in your nappy bag.

CLOTHES

As we mentioned earlier, Murphy is always keeping an eye on what you do – don’t let him catch you out! Always pack extra clothes as you never know when they will come in handy. A handy tip is to also think about yourself too. While you might not like to carry a spare pair of clothes in the nappy bag for yourself, don’t underestimate the power of keeping at least a spare shirt in the pram or the car. It could save you from spending 75% of your day with baby vomit on your shirt.

WHAT ABOUT YOU?

There are also essentials that parents need to remember for the nappy bag, if you don’t have a special grown-up bag of your own.

They include: Your wallet, the car keys, your mobile phone (which can double as a camera to capture those precious moments while you are on your latest adventure with bub), sunnies, a bottle of water and for the nursing mummies – breast pads.

With so many pockets and compartments in many nappy bag designs, you can easily dedicate a section to your things and leave the rest free to fill with all those baby essentials.