Most parents worry about taking their baby out for the first time. And though looking after your little one will be your top priority, a breath of fresh air can be very helpful for mum and baby. Some parents will wait a few weeks to go for a walk with their tiny tot, and others will be popping their baby in the pram after two days. It’s entirely up to you.
When Is It Safe to Take My Newborn out for the First Time?
There’s no definitive rule when you can take your baby out for their first trip. A healthy baby could be ready for a walk outside when they’re only one day old.
Some mums will enjoy staying tucked up on the sofa with their little one for a week, and others will want to head straight out into the world. What’s most important is to decide on a time that’s right for you and your infant.
We’ve put together a handy guide designed to help you out when you’re ready for the first journey with your baby. Whether you’re popping to the corner shop for milk, heading to the local park or visiting granny’s house down the road, our top tips can support you when you’re ready for a big day out with your little one.
8 Tips for the First Day out with Your Baby
1) Pack your baby changing bag
The first tip on our list is to get your baby bag ready. Nappy changing bags are the key to a successful day out for mums, dads and their new arrival. Keeping everything handy in your diaper bag will be a lifesaver on your first day out.
Even if you’re only nipping out to the supermarket, you can never predict when an explosive toilet emergency might happen! Parents need to pack the essentials with them on every trip out, and not just the first one.
The baby basics are in the name – nappy bags need nappies. For the first journey with your baby, you’ll likely not be out for too long, but it’s a good idea to bring spare diapers just in case. You also need to bring the rest of the various nappy paraphernalia in your diaper bag. Think baby wipes, nappy rash cream and disposable diaper bags. Some of the best baby changing bags come with their own travel changing mat, but if they don’t include this feature, you’ll need to pack one of those too.
A nappy bag will be your best friend on you and your baby’s first day out. If you have time the night before, pack your changing bag with the baby necessities while your little one’s sleeping. Then, you’ll be ready for everything and fully prepared when taking your newborn out for the first time.
2) Leave after feeding time
New parents should give their baby either breast milk or formula, depending on how they prefer to feed their little one. Solid food’s off limits for babies at this stage.
It’s no surprise that new mums have concerns about feeding their newborn outside the home. It can be difficult finding suitable facilities or a safe space to breastfeed when you’re out and about. It’s advised to feed your baby just before your first journey outside together, to avoid the added stress of finding a convenient and nearby spot.
Of course, if you want to be extra prepared, you can bring your baby’s food with you if you think they’ll get hungry on their first day out. The best baby changing bags usually have designated pockets to snugly carry a bottle, and some compartments are specially insulated for this very purpose.
3) Be ready, whatever the weather
Unpredictable weather means you could take your baby out for the first time in the blazing sunshine, then get soaked in a sudden downpour only ten minutes into the trip. That’s why the best changing bags should be big enough to carry a few extra outfits for your tiny tot, just in case the weather changes.
In cold weather, wrap up your little one in long sleeves, pants and socks. They’ll also need a hat and mittens. You should pack extra layers in your nappy bag, like insulated legwarmers or blankets that you can pop on or take away depending on your baby’s temperature.
When it’s summer time, dress your baby in light cotton clothes, and bring a sunhat in your diaper bag. Stay in the shade, and don’t forget to grab the sunscreen.
4) Cover up your baby
When taking your infant out for the first time, it’s natural for new mums and dads to feel concerned about exposing their baby. You can help to protect your baby with a breathable cover that neatly fits over your pram.
It’s important to keep air circulating and avoid overheating your baby. If your buggy doesn’t already come with a cover, make sure to only use a light cloth to shield your baby. You can leave a thin blanket in your baby changing bag for extra protection, or try an umbrella that can also be used to cover up little ones without restricting air flow.
5) Avoid crowded areas
Newborn babies can be very susceptible to germs, so it’s recommended that new parents don’t take their first trip out to busy areas. Everyone who passes you and your pram will no doubt want to say hello to your baby, but this will likely increase their exposure to unwanted infections.
Coughs and colds might not harm an adult too much, but they can be very dangerous for babies. Keep away from overcrowded places on your first expedition with your little one. To make sure anyone who might want to hold your baby is clean and has washed their hands, always carry hand sanitiser in your baby bag to keep your infant safe on their first day out.
6) Don’t run before you can walk!
When that seemingly perfect mum from baby yoga takes their tiny treasure out for hours along the high street, it doesn’t mean you need to. Take your time and only go on the first adventure with your baby when you’re completely ready.
Instead of a long trip out, why not try a ten-minute walk along your street? It’ll give you an idea of how your baby reacts to the outside world. Then you can steadily increase the length of time on each journey. If you’re planning on going further than the end of the road, just remember to bring your all-important diaper bag.
7) Consult your doctor
If you’re ever in any doubt about taking your baby out for the first time, ask your doctor, midwife or paediatrician. They’ll be able to give you professional advice about spending time outside with your little one.
You probably won’t need to see them in person – a quick call will do – but your doctor can let you know if there are any issues with taking your baby outside early on.
8) Enjoy yourself
Always remember that first-time experiences with your new arrival should be enjoyed! Try not to worry too much about what to pack in your baby bag, or overthink that pile of laundry mounting up, or fret about your mother-in-law paying a visit. Take your baby out when you want to, and have a great time on your first journey into the great outdoors!
Be ready for the first time outside with your baby and pack everything you need with the BabaBing! range of changing bags.
We have a fantastic selection of nappy bags in neutral colours and stylish designs, so you can feel comfortable when you take your little one on a trip. Our choice of diaper bags also come with lots of different pockets and extra features, so you can easily carry the essentials on your first parent and baby expedition.
Shop the BabaBing! range of baby changing bags today and choose the right style for your family's first big day out.