What to take when out and about with baby?

Taking baby for a walk is a great way to get some fresh air while staying close to them. It's also a chance for them to discover the world. As this lovely moment shouldn't turn into a source of stress, here are a few tips to make sure you don't forget anything.

At what age can baby go out?

There isn't really a set age for baby's first outing, as long as they leave the maternity ward in good health. So you can take baby out for walks from the very first weeks! What joy!

Before rushing outside with your baby, choose a suitable way to get around. Pushchair, pram, baby sling… There’s no shortage of choice. Choose according to your baby’s age and comfort, but also according to your own preferences. If you’d rather have your hands free and stroll along the cobbles, go for the baby sling. Choose the pushchair if it’s more practical and comfortable for you.

Be prepared for bad weather

You need to know what weather to expect once you step outside. promener bébé To do this, quickly check the forecast and dress your baby accordingly. In winter, your baby will be well wrapped up if they wear one more layer of clothing than you, plus a little hat. You can opt for a footmuff to keep them nice and warm, or a snowsuit. In summer, get a parasol, which will also protect you from the rain. Sun cream is a must when taking your baby out, to shield them from UV rays in spring, autumn and summer. 100% cotton bodysuits are best, to avoid irritating your baby’s skin and to stop them sweating in the heat.

Plan the meal or snack

baby bottle

If the walk is quite long, baby will probably get hungry. That’s why a bottle, a dose of formula milk and some mineral water are essential for mums who don’t breastfeed. Add 2-3 bibs, some wipes and a muslin square to your changing bag, to wipe baby and protect yourself from any spit-up. A small water bottle for yourself will also come in handy.

When baby is a little older, you’ll take biscuits, fruit purées and a bottle of water. You can also add a first-aid kit with plasters and antiseptic to your changing bag.

Be ready for little accidents

Even if you change baby before leaving, you may need to do a nappy change out and about with baby in the middle of your walk. Don't panic! You just need to plan ahead before taking baby out. If you have a pushchair, you can recline it for the moment in question. You can use a waterproof changing mat; there are foldable ones for parents on the go. Otherwise, a towel under baby's bottom will do the job. If you don't have a pushchair, a changing mat is essential for hygiene reasons. Do it on a bench if you're walking in the park, or in nearby toilets if there are any. Don't forget the accessories that are part of your changing routine: a few clean nappies, cotton pads, liniment and bin bags for dirty nappies. Take the care products you use every day with you, such as saline solution, for example.

Make the most of this relaxing time

out and about with baby You don't have to go on long 3h walks every day to enjoy them. A newborn tires quickly, after all. So it's best for baby's first walks to last between 15 and 20 minutes, in quiet places. Little by little, depending on your little one's health and mood, you can make your walks longer and vary your routes. To make them even more enjoyable, don't forget baby's favourite things: their comforter, their favourite toy, their pacifiers or a special rattle.

Above all, enjoy these walks as a two, a three or more!

Dylan
Proud dad of three little ones and founder of Premiers Moments. Together with the whole team, I share our parenting tips here to support you, from pregnancy through your child's first years.