Day out with kids: what to put in the bag

A good day-out bag saves the afternoon. It doesn’t need to be big. It needs the few things that fix the most common problems: hunger, mess, weather and boredom. Here’s a list for children of any age.

Make this a list for your family.
Zipi builds it around the trip, the weather and who’s going, and keeps it for next time.

Build yours in Zipi

Check these first

The things people forget most. Everything else can be bought, borrowed or worked around.

Water and snacks
Wipes and a spare outfit
Any medicine your child needs
Phone and power bank
Sun or rain cover

0 of 23 ticked

Food and drink

Water bottles, filled
Snacks that don’t squash or melt
A packed lunch or a plan for lunch
A small bag for rubbish

Mess and mishaps

Wipes and tissues
Hand sanitiser
A full change of clothes for each young child
A bag for wet or dirty clothes
Plasters and a small first aid kit
Nappies and a changing mat, if used

Keeping busy

A small toy, a book or a sticker pad
A phone or tablet with a charged battery
A power bank and cable
A ball or frisbee for the park

Practical

Tickets or booking on your phone
A little cash and a card
A pushchair or carrier for little legs
Your phone number on a wristband or in a child’s pocket

You can usually buy these there: Snacks, Drinks, Sun cream. Leave room in the case.

Tips

Keep a day bag permanently packed with the basics (wipes, plasters, a spare outfit) and top up the snacks and water.
Check the weather and the venue’s rules on food and bags before you leave.
Agree a meeting point with older children in case you get separated.
Leave the car seat or buggy with a clear label in case you pack them away.

Common questions

What should I put in a day bag for kids?

Water, snacks, wipes, a spare outfit, plasters, sun or rain cover, something to do and a charged phone with a power bank.

How many spare outfits for a day out?

One full outfit for each young child, plus a bag for wet clothes. Babies and toddlers may need two.

What snacks travel well?

Fruit, cheese sticks, crackers, oat bars and rice cakes are easy. Avoid anything that melts or crumbles all over the bag.

One list per person, one link for whoever helps.
Send the children’s list to a partner, nanny or grandparent. They tick things off on their phone.

Try Zipi free

More packing lists

This is general guidance. Check your airline, destination and your child’s own needs before you travel. Privacy · Terms