Baby Changing Bags
This must be one of the best things to choose when your expecting your baby to arrive! The changing bag nowadays comes in many shapes and sizes but most importantly there isn't any good reason why you won't find one which fits your lifestyle and you will love to carry. There are bags which will easily convert from a designer evening bag or laptop bag to changing bag. Even for the metro man in your life we have a selection of Dad's bags so there is no excuse for not taking turns!
Baby changing bags these days come in plenty of cool, contemporary styles that are specially designed for your convenience. Most include an insulated bottle holder, an easy-access changing pad compartment, and probably even the changing pad itself not to mention little hooks to secure dummies and smaller items. Some even include an exterior opening for nappy wipes so that you can access them without opening your bag. All of these features help make it possible to maneuver around the bag with one hand, even while you're holding a sleeping child.
If you really want to express your style, you might consider a bag that wasn't specifically designed to be a changing bag. Really, you can turn any bag into a diaper bag if it has a roomy interior compartment and good pockets especially if you add in changing-bag accessories, such as an insulated bottle holder.
General guidance
To share, or not to share? If you're going for personal style, you and your partner might want to have separate changing bags. But the upside to sharing is that you only have to stock it once, and you never have to wonder who has the dummy or baby wipes. If you do decide to share, you'll want to find a nice, neutral bag that everyone can agree on, which means avoiding that pattern you think is "so cute" and letting your husband have veto power over bubblegum pink.
Comfort is key. Pick a changing bag that will be comfortable for you even when you're loaded up like a pack mule. The two things to look for are cushioning and adjustability, especially if you're going to be sharing with someone who's a different height. Make sure the bag will fit over your shoulder if you want to stay hands-free and you will want to stay hands-free. Straps should have proper cushioning so they don't dig into your shoulders.
One great bag, or lots of bags to choose from? Some people like to have one good, basic changing bag, while others consider them an accessory and want to have several to choose from, just like their handbags.
Easy clean-up.
If you want a diaper bag that will stick with you through thick and thin, in sickness and in health, through juice spills and spit-ups, then you'll want one that's easy to clean. Messes happen. Avoid bags that can't get wet or dirty, and look for bags that are either washable or wipe clean easily.
Seasonal considerations.
One of the drawbacks of those great bags that just wipe clean is that many are made from plastic or pleather. While they're exceptionally easy to maintain, you might want to take climate into consideration, because they're made of materials that stay chilly in the winter and can be uncomfortably hot to carry in the summer.
Personality.
Babies can be just as different from each other as adults: some make a ton of messes, others don't seem to. Don't overbuy before you get to know your child's personality. After you have a little experience under your belt, you'll know what kind of bag works best.
Parents of twins.
Whether you're a minimalist or like to be prepared, having multiples means some of your supplies must multiply, too, so plan on a bigger bag. If you have a double-wide stroller, you can even get a double-wide bag made to fit the handlebars.
Special needs children.
Parents of babies with special needs often find they have more to carry along; if this applies to you, plan on buying a bigger bag.