(From Nannies Who Actually Leave the House Daily)

One thing about career nannies?
They leave the house.

Library story time. The park. Grocery pickup. Music class. Long stroller walks. Backyard picnics. They are not sitting inside all day unless there is a very good reason.

And leaving the house with a baby does not have to feel overwhelming. It just takes a solid system.

Here is exactly what nannies pack, why they pack it, and what they skip.

The Everyday Essentials (This Bag Lives by the Door)

This is the non-negotiable list.

Diapers
One for every 2 hours you’ll be gone… plus one extra. Always one extra.

Wipes
Travel pack or a small refillable pouch.

Changing pad
Public changing tables are… unpredictable.

Extra outfit
Full change. Onesie, pants, socks. Blowouts do not care about your plans.

Burp cloth
Even if baby “never spits up.”

Plastic or wet bag
For soiled clothes. Trust us.

Pacifier (if baby takes one)
And yes, bring a backup.

Feeding Must-Haves

What nannies pack depends on baby’s age.

For Bottles

Pre-measured formula in a dispenser or pre-made bottles in a cooler
Bottle(s)
Small cooler bag with ice pack

For Breastfed Babies

Bottles of expressed milk
Cooler bag
Bib

For Starting Solids

Bib
Spoon
Small container of food
Silicone placemat (game changer at parks and libraries)
Sippy cup

There is no need to pack the entire kitchen. Just what is needed for that outing window.

The Comfort & Backup Plan Items

Experienced nannies always think ahead.

Light blanket
For stroller shade, sitting on grass, or surprise temperature drops.

Weather layer
Extra cardigan, hat, or sunhat depending on season.

Baby sunscreen (6+ months)
And always apply before you leave.

Mini first aid basics
Band-aid and wipes. Nannies are prepared.

The Development Extras (Because We’re Out for a Reason)

Nannies do not just leave the house to leave it. Outings are intentional.

Sometimes bring:

A small board book
One easy stroller toy
Bubbles for park days
Snack container for older babies

But here is the key:
Nannies shouldn’t overpack entertainment. The world is the entertainment.

Leaves. Other kids. Dogs. Wind. Sounds. Movement. That is the enrichment.

What We Do NOT Pack

Ten toys
Backup backup outfits
Full nursery supplies
Everything “just in case”

Overpacking slows you down and makes outings stressful. A confident nanny keeps it streamlined.

The Real Secret: We Prep Beforehand

The smooth outings you see on Instagram?
They happen because the nanny would prepare.

Diaper bag restocked the day before
Bottles prepped
Weather checked
Car stocked
Stroller ready

You do not want to scramble as you walk out the door.

Why Nannies Leave the House Daily

Because babies thrive on:

Fresh air
Sensory experiences
New environments
Routine

And honestly? So do nannies.

A change of scenery prevents burnout, supports development, and builds social confidence early on.

Leaving the house with a baby is not chaotic when you are prepared. It becomes second nature.

And once you get the rhythm?
It is one of the best parts of the job.

What We Pack for Outings With Babies