Handbags as baby changing bags..

[LDNmummy]

not sure if this is the right place to post this but as it is about my style, is it OK or do I really need an actual changing bag?

I would much rather have a large handbag that suits my style and is all purpose than a changing bag, but am happy to use a dedicated change bag if it really does make a difference.

I have looked at the choices and even though there are some great combo's like the Lin and Leo one's, they just aren't 'me'.

I was thinking I could hit the shops today and find a large leather Hobo or Tote bag and buy some Pacapod, pod's and Skip Hop separates to put in it.

I use a huge DKNY bag as handbag and changing bag. All the changing bits go in zip loc bags and I try and keep to the minimum (breastfeeding)

I'm also breastfeeding but need as bigger bag now as about to start weaning.

The bag I have now is quite small.

Could I be nosy and ask for a link to see the type of bag you are using Ophelia? Might give me some inspiration and an idea on size needed.

2 children, no pram/buggy so needed to comfortable with sling throughout the day, booth bfed BLW and out every day and used lot champs pliage (good shoulder drop and wipe able or a bill Amberg leather rucksack.

Also used a couple of my j &m Davidson bags as they are capacious

There's no need for an actual changing bag - I bought a fold up changing mat (think it was from Jojo Maman Bebe) and put that into whatever bag I was taking out. Just work out what you need to take with you and go from there. Some of it will depend on your baby - mine were quite sicky, so my bag for popping out for a morning would be

• 2 or 3 nappies plus wipes and nappy sacks
• spare bodysuit and sleepsuit or outfit
• couple of muslins
• rattle or toy when a bit older

if using bottles, then add bottle plus flask of hot water (is that the way it's done now, been a while for me?) plus powder in container

I just used this sort of thing for DD2 in my usual very capacious handbag (which is a Bulaggi bag, but I can't now find one online).

I had a large washbag with all the changing stuff in it and threw that into whatever bag I was using. I have a penchant for large handbags anyway. Nothing expensive, just a big shoulder bag.

I've got something similar to Bramshott which just gets hoicked into whichever bag I'm using. I add a vest, clean trousers and snacks/water. Today is my Patrick Cox messenger bag, yesterday was a small rucksack, DH has another messenger bag if he's carrying it. I've never had a changing bag.

The best money I ever spent was on a beautiful large slouchy leather handbag. I'll use it long after the youngest is out of nappies. Changing bags tend to look like, well, changing bags.

Bramshott I will definitely be investing in one of those change matt's!

I wear a lot of vintage clothing and am thinking of investing in a leather messenger bag like the Longchamp Pliage. It seems to go with almost anything!

I've got quite a few, anything with pockets on the front/side work for me, leather or canvas I don't mind. If one of the pockets can hold a tommee tippee sippy cup upright then that's good. If there is another pocket for snotty tissues (nice) and apple cores then even better.

I've never owned a proper changing bag tbh, I hate them.

Thanks for all the tips ladies!

I'm off to find my bag now