BABY CHANGING BAGS - TOP  PICKS

by WhichNappy.co.uk

Baby (or nappy) changing bags are probably the best example where what matters most is the look and not the contents. We have picked 5 best buys - stylish, convenient and affordable.

SKIP HOP VIA MESSENGER. This mid-size bag will certainly appeal to those who like keeping the contents of the bad in perfect order - 18 pockets provide endless opportunities for organizing baby and personal things. A word of caution, if you tend to pack a half of the house every time you go out, this bag might not be big enough. However, it will carry all the baby necessities and, since carrying a purse and a nappy bag is not an option for most mums, will hold the keys, wallet, make-up, etc. The design is sleek and doesn't scream "nappy changing bag", and some may use it even when the nappy changing is no longer a part of the daily routine. One of the most interesting and useful features are the patent pending Shuttle Clips, which enable an easy and neat transformation from a shoulder bag to a stroller bag.  It comes in four different colours: black, lime, platinum and red. Priced at £69 with the changing mat included it is a good value considering the high quality and durability.

PACAPOD SEQUOIA. Unless you possess the superpowers and are able to see through things, you will never guess, this bag might be full of nappies, wipes and milk bottles. This must be one of the most stylish and discreet baby changing bags. True to its name the bag itself actually holds 2 'pods', which makes it a 3-in-1 organising system. One pod is big enough to be filled with a favourite toy, an apple and a hair clip but small enough to be carried as a backpack by the child, while the other pod contains a changing mat and bottle warmer. Wipe clean inner and outer is a practical feature which doesn't give it a cheap plastic look. The bag as well as the two pods easily clip onto the pram handle. If you carry the bag around, there are two options: a detachable over the shoulder strap or a leather covered clutch handle. It has a few pockets to store keys, mobile phone and the like. What makes finding things really easy is the way it unzips; the whole side of the bag opens, and the contents are on display like in a suitcase - no more blind searching the bottom of the bag for those keys! It is a little pricey at £130, but remember you get a 3-in-1 all inclusive package, great design and functionality. And don't be surprised if you get complimented on this stylish handbag - very few will realize its a nappy bag.

BABABING TotallyTOTE. When the top priority is how many bottles a bag can take, BABABING TotallyTOTE maternity bag is a great choice. There are three colours to choose from: City Black, Chocolate Brown and Redhot. It won't be taken for anything other than a practical and roomy tote yet it delivers clean and uncluttered design. The design was developed around the baby's and mum's needs: large compartment for the bottles, dummy hangers, puschair clips and a pocket for a mascara and lip liner. The reflective strip built into the bag will ensure better visibility in the dark, and consequently greater safety near the road. The carrying straps and shoulder strap are complemented by a pushchair clip, and lightweight materials help reduce the burden on mums' shoulders. The material is also waterproof, which is always useful in climate like British. To crown it all, the £28 price tag is hard to beat, and so is the quality. If its slightly utilitarian design is not a concern, look no further, this bag will be a great addition to your baby gear arsenal.

STORKSAK EMILY NYLON. "As seen on Angelina Jolie". Many mums will buy this bag just for that - celebrity credentials. But behind the celeb appeal it is actually a very trendy and functional bag - well chosen, Angelina! It will look great in formal or casual setting and is roomy enough to hold all of your baby and personal stuff. The insulated side zip pockets will keep the bottles warm or cool (for up to four hours!) and provide easy access to the bottles without opening the main middle section and exposing all the contents. Inside there are plenty of compartments, one of which is perfectly sized for a mobile phone. The two outer zip pockets with tassled zip pulls and contrasting hardware and stitching (these contribute to the overall relaxed chic look) are convenient for things that require frequent and easy access: keys, sunglasses, wipes, etc. The bag is supplied with a padded changing mat and a small pouch. You will find the pouch very useful for cosmetics and other smaller items, and the adjustable shoulder strap will free your hands up. The satin material is not the most stain resistant type, so you might want to take a bit more care with the liquids. The price is a pleasant surprise - £89. It is far from cheap but still affordable, and the choice of 4 colours will help you accentuate your style: from classic black and bohemian chocolate or mocha to hip pewter metallic.

SUMMER CITY TOTE. If, when the star dust settles behind Brad and Angelina, you find yourself thinking "what's the fuss about", and if you only budgeted £20 for a changing bag, this Summer City Tote will probably be your bag. It actually kind of draws on the same idea as Storksak Emily Nylon by offering two side pockets for quick access to the bottles or other essentials. Similar to its more expensive counterpart this tote comes with a changing mat and a pouch (clear vinyl in this case). Side-to-side zip opens access to a large middle section with three mesh pockets, elasticised bottle holders and a zip pocket for smaller items. Adjustable padded shoulder strap and handles are both comfortable and practical. The understated 'neutral' look makes this bag a great gift for an expectant mother. Having said that, the design is relatively unisex, so dads won't have a problem with it when on nappy duty. It is lightweight and durable material should last long. When the toddlers get out of nappies, this bag will pack a great picnic for a day out in the park. Its recommended retail price is £24.99, but if you hurry, it is offered by Amazon for only £19.95. Affordability + practicality = always a winning formula.

Read more about:

· Travelling with newborn - tips & advice

· Nappy types - choose the right one for your baby

· Buy a baby changing bag online - click here