Collaborative post by another author. 

The pushchair that matches your lifestyle

Pushchairs are often the biggest single investment we make for a baby and it’s easy to get caught up in fancy features instead of thinking about everyday life.

A fully loaded travel system might look impressive in the store, but if it’s hard to fold with one hand, doesn’t fit in your car boot with your shopping or it struggles on the paths you actually use, it quickly becomes more hassle than help. I have known many parents over the years who have replaced their expensive pushchairs with smarter strollers after a few months because they were just too big a faff. 

Parents love their strollers most when they choose them based on their own lifestyle. If you live in a city centre flat you probably need something lightweight and compact you can get upstairs and store easily. If you live in more rural suburbs you might prefer more underseat storage and good suspension for walks along uneven tracks and parks. Some families looking to save money in the long run might opt for a travel system, which allows them to purchase a bassinet, stroller and compatible car seat all-in-one. These are great for newborns and popular with first time parents. Don't feel you need to spend a fortune on them though, as you probably wont use any of it again after the first year.

The nappy bag that actually works

Nappy bags are now stylish designs that you are happy to be seen with, rather than big bulk designs. They could be a normal bag or backpack, but well designed nappy bags will have extra features that make things easier eg bags with connectors to hang on your pushchair are really helpful. Many modern designs will have insulated sections to keep bottles or food cool. They also often come with matching changing mats and a whole variety of pockets and compartments which mean you can find what you are looking for quickly (as long as you remember which pocket it's in). 

My best tip is to make sure you repack the bag when you get home from a trip out. You might be tired or needing to feed your child, but make sure to restock all the non-perishabale essentials asap like a clean change of clothes, nappies, wipes, changing pad, muslin and basic first aid supplies. You can always add snacks and anything needed for that days specific trip before you go out, but in an emergency it means you will always have the essentials (and you wont discover you forgot to take out that dirty vest from the poonami the other day when it's too late to rescue).  

This ready-to-go system stops you being exhausted from the packing process before you even get out the door and reduces the likelihood of forgetting something critical.

Feeding on the go

Whether you are breastfeeding, formula feeding or both you will probably feel the need to plan trips out around when they are likely to want milk (and a nap). You'll soon get the hang of this though and choosing a few products that help feeding on the go will make life easier. 

If you are breastfeeding you'll have the essential equipment with you, but make sure you wear clothes that allow easy access. You might feel more comfortable if you have a feeding cover on hand (these normally go round your neck and have a structure at the top that allows you to see your baby easily, but keeps them private). I found these were brilliant when my baby got a bit older and would stop mid feed to have a look around at any interesting noise. A muslin is also handy to have in your bag, it can provide cover, shade or just be used to clean up any regurgitation. 

If you are choosing to formula feed instead there are lots of gadgets to make the process easier. Insulated bottle carriers, pre-measured formula dispensers and compact sterilising equipment can make outings feel far less restrictive. 

For older babies who are transitioning to solids, portable high chairs that clip onto restaurant tables, roll up bibs and collapsible feeding sets that fit inside the nappy bag mean you can give them a snack anyway, even if the cafe isn't fully set up for little ones. The investment in these small items pays back in the freedom they provide to eat wherever the day takes your family.

Layers and accessories

The weather can change as fast as a baby’s mood, and outings tend to go more smoothly when you’re ready for it. A lightweight rain cover for the pram, an adjustable sun shade, a muslin wrap that doubles as a blanket or feeding cover, and a spare outfit suited to the temperature can make a big difference.

None of these takes up much space, but they stop small issues from ending a trip early. It really comes down to being prepared without overpacking. I always look for handy items that are multi-purpose. When you’ve got those basics covered, you’re less likely to feel caught off guard by sudden changes. That bit of preparation makes it easier to head out with confidence, instead of second-guessing whether it’s worth leaving the house at all.

Small wins build parenting confidence

Every successful trip out will build your confidence and make then next one feel easier. If it didn't go so well? Learn from it what you can, but just recognise some days are a bit harder and it's usually a one off.  The right gear doesn't give you confidence on it's own, but it can help you feel more prepared to handle whatever might happen. When we feel confident we are more likely to go out, explore and socialise. Developing the confidence to go out is good for the wellbeing of both you and your baby, so take it one outing at a time and keep trying until you are the mum everyone looks at and thinks "wow, she is so confident, I wish I was like her".