Top Tips for Shopping with a Newborn

Kirsten Metcalf
2026-03-26T11:30:47-04:00

Going shopping with a newborn is a major milestone. Leaving the comfortable little nest you’ve made in your home and venturing out into the world with your little one is a huge deal and one that can at times feel overwhelming. But don’t stress it, mama. Take a look at our top tips for shopping with a newborn and get ready to run those errands!

1. Choose the Right Time

One of the main keys to your shopping success with a newborn lies in when you decide to schedule your outing. A newborn’s schedule can be tricky and often vary from day to day, but when possible, try to plan your errands and trips to the grocery store around their naps. A happy, rested baby will definitely make for a more enjoyable shopping trip. Consider which times might work best for your little one and make a tentative plan for when you’ll take off for your errands.

2. Bring Someone With You

At least for the first few times going out with your newborn, having someone accompany you could be a huge help and a major game changer. They could push the baby stroller while you fill your cart with your groceries, or vice versa. Consider whether or not it would be a good idea for your baby to go when both you and your partner could go to the store together so that you can tag team the chore. You might also consider asking a friend or family member to accompany you on the first few trips if they’re able- it really makes a world of difference!

3. Have the Right Kind of Stroller

If you’re planning to bring your stroller with you to the grocery store, you’ll want to make sure you have the right kind of stroller to get the job done. Something that is compact and that easily folds and unfolds is a must when going out and about with your baby. You might also consider a reversible stroller, which allows you to easily transition the direction your baby is facing. That way, if they start to fuss or need something from you, it’s easy to turn them around to face you so that you can give them the attention they need.

4. Pack the Diaper Bag Well

Take the time to properly pack your diaper bag with everything you might need for an outing with your newborn. From diapers and wipes to an extra outfit in case of a blowout, you will definitely want to be prepared for whatever might come your way. Remember that while it’s important to pack everything your little one might need, don’t forget about yourself, either! Be sure to pack an extra shirt and some snacks to keep you going. Be sure to either keep your diaper bag on your back or in the storage compartment underneath your stroller, but refrain from wrapping the straps around the handlebar of the stroller. This might throw off the weight distribution.

5. Be Prepared to Feed Your Newborn

As mentioned earlier, newborns can be unpredictable at times. Even if you feed your little one right before leaving for your errands, you may find they need an extra feeding while you’re out. Be sure to bring everything you need to get them fed and keep them happy. If you’re nursing, bring a nursing cover and nursing pads. If you’re bottle feeding, bring a clean bottle and formula or a small cooler with some breast milk. As you settle in to feed, be sure to flip the lock on your stroller so that it stays firmly in place. You’ve got this, mama!

6. Bring Comfort Items

By now, you may have found some items that easily bring comfort to your little one. Maybe it’s a pacifier. Maybe it’s an ultra-soft lovey that they’ve become attached to. Maybe it’s a small rattle or wooden toy that they can easily grasp in their hand. Whatever it is, it’s a good idea to bring it along with you on your outing in case your newborn begins to fuss. This is a big deal! An environment full of new sounds, smells and sights can be overwhelming. Giving them a small comfort item could be just the trick to tide them over.

7. Park Intentionally

When possible, park as close to the store entrance as possible, as well as near a cart corral. Between pulling out the diaper bag, folding and unfolding the stroller, and getting your baby situated in their car seat, those minutes of transition can sometimes feel overwhelming. A spot close to the entrance ensures less walking time, and being near a cart corral makes it much easier for you to return your cart and get back to the task at hand without a hitch.

8. Bring a Grocery List

Baby or no baby, bringing a grocery list is a surefire way to maintain laser focus while at the grocery store. When you have a little one in tow, keeping your trip as short and to the point as possible is key to making it a success and keeping your baby happy. Before you leave the house, make a meal plan and double check what you have in your fridge and pantry so that you know what you need to get at the store. Write it down or save it as a note on your phone- this will ensure a successful trip! You’ll also want to try and go to a store that you’re already familiar with. Knowing the layout will definitely lend a hand in efficiency.

9. Reward Yourself

Once you’re back home, all the groceries are unpacked and put away, and your little one is tucked in for their nap, take some time and reward yourself! Going out with a newborn is not for the faint of heart, and you deserve a little pat on the back. Whether it’s a little treat or an episode or two of the show you’re currently binging, taking some time to relax is the perfect reward. You did it!