As a parent, you know that taking care of a baby requires a lot of planning and preparation. One of the most important items in your arsenal is the baby bag. However, as the seasons change, so do your baby’s needs. It’s important to update your baby bag accordingly to ensure your little one is comfortable, safe and healthy no matter what the weather.
Here are some tips to help you prepare your baby bag for seasonal changes:
Year Round Baby Bag Essentials
Feeding Accessories
If you are breastfeeding, make sure to include breastfeeding accessories in your baby bag, such as breast pads and a nursing cover. You may also want to include a bottle of water to help keep you hydrated.
If you’re a mother who’s bottle feeding, it’s helpful to have a feeding kit in your baby bag with all the necessary feeding accessories. Some items to consider include bottles, teats, formula, and a bottle warmer. When selecting bottles, choose ones that are lightweight and easy to carry, as well as ones with secure caps to prevent leaks. If using powdered formula, it’s often easier to have it pre-measured and packed in airtight containers to keep it fresh and prevent spills.
If you’re going to be out and about for a while, a bottle warmer can be a handy accessory to warm up formula quickly and conveniently, ideal for with ready to feed bottles!
Nappy Supplies
Of course, one of the most important items in your baby bag are your nappy supplies. Make sure to include plenty of nappies, wipes and nappy rash cream, and a foldable changing mat can be a lifesaver! You may also want to include plastic bags for dirty nappies and wipes, as well as always having a spare change of clothes in case of accidents!
Medical Supplies
It is always worthwhile keeping a small (baby friendly!) first aid kit nearby, as well as any necessary medications and emergency contact information. You may also want to include a thermometer to check your baby’s temperature
Winter Baby Bag Essentials
Warm Outer Layers
As the temperature drops, it’s important to keep your baby warm and dry. Pack warm clothing like hats, mittens, scarves and jackets. It’s important to protect your baby from the cold, so make sure to pack a hat that covers their ears, as well as a jacket with a hood.
You may also want to include an extra throw blanket to keep your baby warm during walks in the pram
Spring and Autumn Baby Bag Essentials
Layer up and down
The big winter coats and snowsuits might start being a bit uncomfortable in the ‘in between’ weather. Instead, opt for lots of layers you can take on and off. A lightweight waterproof jacket can also be a lifesaver if you end up out and about in a shower!
Prep for the sun
Springtime and autumn can still have those bright sunny days and their sensitive skin means it is always worthwhile being prepared - spf if they’re over 6 months, a sun hat and fan can all be helpful to protect them if the sunshine gets hotter than expected.
Allergy Season
The UK is known for its allergy season, which typically runs from March to September, and yes, babies can get hayfever too! Watch for itchy eyes and sneezing
Babies over the age of 6 months may be able to take some antihistamines (always chat to a pharmacist to find the right options), but you can also pack a barrier cream to pop on their nostrils to help block the pollen if they’re struggling.
Summer Baby Bag Essentials
All about Protection
During the summer months, it’s important to protect your baby from the sun. Babies under 6 months aren’t recommended to use SPF, so until then, keep them in the shade - muslins are a great way to cover up on the go. Make sure to pack a sun hat, sunglasses and a high SPF sunscreen in your baby bag and you can also consider adding bug spray to keep pesky insects at bay.
Keep it Cool
Look for lightweight, breathable clothing like cotton that will help keep your little one cool in the heat. Also, consider including a small fan or misting bottle to help keep your baby cool and comfortable and avoid heading out in the peak of the day
Bonus Tip: Stock Up on Seasonal Clothing in Multiple Sizes!
Having multiple sizes of seasonal clothing is important in case your baby grows unexpectedly. When preparing for winter, make sure to stock up on multiple sets of socks, long-sleeved onesies, leggings, tights and sweaters in the size of the season. For summer, don’t forget shorts and light tank tops. It’s also helpful to have hats and mittens or gloves with each season’s clothing to help keep your baby comfortable.
In conclusion, preparing your baby bag for seasonal changes in the UK is essential for keeping your baby comfortable. With the right items in your baby bag, you’ll be able to tackle any weather or allergy season with ease, and keep your baby happy no matter what the weather!
