Your first outing with a newborn can take more preparation than an entire day out used to. You might be wondering what to pack, where to feed and what happens if your baby cries before you reach the end of the street.
Start with a small, flexible plan. You are learning how to leave home together, and a short outing gives you a chance to work out what helps.
Choose one easy destination
A nearby bench, a familiar café or a short walk with someone you trust can be a useful first step. Choose somewhere you can leave easily, with a place to sit and a toilet nearby. Save the trip with several errands for another day.
Your recovery matters in the plan too. Consider how far you need to walk, whether there are stairs and who can carry the bag. If you or your baby have specific health needs, ask your midwife, nurse or doctor for individual advice about outings.
Pack for the outing you are taking
For a short trip, a useful starting list is nappies, wipes, a change mat, spare baby clothes, a bag for wet clothes, the feeding supplies you use and a cloth for spills. Add your phone, keys, water and something for you to eat. A spare top for you can be helpful.
Keep the items you reach for most in an easy-to-open pocket. If someone comes with you, show them where things are so they can help without asking you to find everything.
Leave room for feeding and changes
You can offer a feed before leaving if that suits your baby, but you do not have to find a perfect gap between feeds. Identify somewhere you would feel comfortable stopping. Your baby may need to feed or be changed sooner than expected, and the outing can simply pause.
Check the conditions
Look at the weather and choose a comfortable time of day. Keep your baby out of direct sun, use the pram as instructed and keep air flowing around them. Red Nose advises against draping a cloth or muslin over a pram because it can trap heat and restrict airflow.
Give yourself an easy way home
Decide in advance that turning back is allowed. If you make it to the café and leave after ten minutes, you have still learned something about getting out together. There is no minimum distance that makes an outing count.
When you want somewhere familiar to return each week, explore our local Mothers’ Groups. Feeding, changing and comforting your baby are welcome parts of being there. Find your nearest group and check upcoming trial opportunities on our website.
Find your local Mothers’ Group and upcoming trial information