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When you have a baby, travel can feel impossible. However, you shouldn't avoid a vacation just because you have a little one in tow. As long as you're equipped with the right travel essentials, your trip can go from unmanageable to a breeze.
While extra diapers are likely one of the first items on your list, you’ll also want to throw in a portable changing pad. After all, our tiny humans have a knack for needing a change at less-than-convenient times. To help you prepare for clean, safe diaper changes on the go, our gear experts have tested and reviewed the the best portable changing pads for travel.
1. Skip Hop Diaper Bag Clutch and Changing Pad
The Skip Hop Diaper Clutch and changing pad is a best seller at GoodBuy Gear and our best overall pick for a portable diaper changing pad thanks to its high-quality sleek, compact design. This crossbody bag features handy pockets to store all of your essential baby items. Throw it over your shoulder and your hands are free to lug all of your other baby gear.
Keep in mind that the inside of this clutch is slightly smaller than traditional diaper bags so it may not be the best option for an extended vacation. However, it’s great to keep in the car or to take on quick trips.
Best for: Quick trips or travel where you have limited space (airplanes, car rides, etc.)
Key Features:
- Easy to carry, works as a crossbody bag
- Laminated, wipeable fabric to resist spills and dirt
- Easily wipes clean
- Slim design with multiple pockets
2. Munchkin Changing Station
You may have a well-stocked diaper bag, but it can also help to have an organized trunk full of essential baby gear for those unforeseen circumstances. The Munchkin Changing Station is a trunk organization system equipped with seven compartments, a complete diaper changing pad, a wipe case and disposable diaper bags for easy clean ups so you can be prepared for accidents and blowouts no matter where you are.
Because of its size, the Munchkin Changing Station may not be the best to take on an airplane or public transportation, but it’s a great choice for quick car rides and family road trips.
Best for: Car rides and road trips.
Key Features:
- Seven compartments with mesh pockets for easy organization
- Includes diaper changing pad, wipes case and disposable diaper bags
- Collapsible design for easy storage
- Made with durable, easy-to-clean material
Shop the Munchkin Changing Station
3. Babie Box Portable Changing Pad
- Retail Price: N/A
- Amazon Price: N/A
- Avg. GoodBuy Gear Price: $12
If you’re looking for a stylish travel changing pad and a great value, the Babie Box Portable Changing Pad is for you. This travel changing mat includes an extra-long cushioned pad and built-in pillow to keep baby's head comfy no matter where you are. It also includes a stroller and crossbody strap so you can easily take it with you on long or short trips.
If you want to minimize the amount of luggage you bring on your trip, you may not want to pack this plus your diaper bag. But if you’re looking for a portable option you can keep in the car or grab on the go, you will love this waterproof changing pad.
Best for: A cute, budget-friendly portable changing pad solution.
Key Features:
- Stroller and crossbody strap for versatile use
- Waterproof, easy-to-clean surface
- Thick memory foam pillow
- Extra-long cushioned foam pad
- Velcro pockets for diapers and wipes
Shop the Babie Box Portable Changing Pad
4. Bambino Mio Portable Changing Pad
Our tiny humans are adorable but they don’t exactly travel light. Between diapers, extra clothes, bottles and toys, a portable changing pad can feel like just another thing to pack and carry. That’s why we love the Bambino Mio Portable Changing Pad. It’s lightweight and easy to pack in any diaper bag for at-home or on-the-go diaper changes.
If you’re shopping for a tote or a place to store diapers and wipes, consider another option. But if you are searching for a basic, reliable baby diaper changing pad you can stow in your diaper bag, this may be exactly what you need.
Best for: A lightweight solution for at-home or on-the-go changing.
Key Features:
- Lightweight and easy to pack in any diaper bag
- Foldable with hook-and-loop fastening
- Compact to fit inside a diaper or travel bag
- Soft quilted surface to provide a comfortable, on-the-go changing solution
- Absorbent padding to catch accidents
- Machine washable
Shop the Bambino Portable Changing Mat
5. Summer Infant Portable Changing Pad
This travel changing mat includes padding for extra comfort so you never have to worry about changing your little one on a changing table or hard surface. It can fold up into a compact bundle to easily fit in a diaper bag pocket, which makes it one of the best portable changing mats. It’s also easy to clean thanks to the waterproof material.
However, if you’re looking for a travel changing pad that can also fit some essentials like diapers and wipes, this may not be your best bet. But if you need a changing pad you can pack in your diaper bag, this is a great option.
Best for: If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, this is the best diaper changing pad. It’s great for new parents who need a portable changing pad to keep in the car or toss in a diaper bag.
Key Features:
- Fully padded for comfortable on-the-go changes
- Folds up to fit in a diaper bag
- Waterproof
- Easy to wipe clean
Shop the Summer Infant Portable Changing Pad
Finding the Best Portable Changing Pad for You
When it comes to babies, parents know to always expect the unexpected. And when you’re away from home, it’s even more important to make sure you have all the essential baby items in tow. A travel changing pad is a must for any parent and baby registry.
Whether you’re looking for a compact diaper bag with a changing pad, a trunk organizer and changing station or a lightweight, portable option, there’s something for every parent and baby on this list.
If you’re on the hunt for more affordable travel essentials, shop our travel gear selection. From open box travel strollers to gently used playards, we’re here to help you find the best baby gear for yourself and your little ones.
