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News.com.au
an hour ago
- Lifestyle
- News.com.au
13 best nappy bags for every mum to buy in Australia in 2025
Love them or hate them, nappy bags are a must for any parent with a baby in tow. These products are hand-picked by our team to help make shopping easier. We may receive payments from third parties for sharing this content and when you purchase through links in this article. Product prices and offer details are not assured, and should be confirmed independently with the retailer. Learn more A nappy bag is an essential item for new parents but choosing the right one can be surprisingly tricky. Before I was pregnant, I'd never even heard of a nappy bag. But it quickly became clear that it was going to be one of my most important baby purchases. After all, this is the one bag that needs to hold everything for every baby scenario, every time you leave the house. That's a lot to ask of a single bag. And since you'll be carrying it everywhere for many months to come, you want something that not only fits your lifestyle but also your wardrobe. To make the decision a little easier – whether you're a 'bigger is better' or 'sleek and chic' kind of person – we've rounded up our favourite nappy bags to suit every kind of parent and budget. OUR TOP PICKS BEST OVERALL NAPPY BAGS OiOi Signature Vegan Leather Nappy Backpack, $219.95 at Myer Why we love it: Super stylish bag made of premium faux leather What to consider: Expensive price tag but worth it Dimensions: 38cm x 31cm x 15cm | Material: Premium faux leather | Colours: Tan, Olive, Stone Blue What You Need To Know This gorgeous faux leather nappy bag backpack is easy to throw on your back when you're heading out with your little one. It has plenty of handy space with eight pockets all up, three elasticised and one zipper pocket on the inside, plus two front pockets and two insulated bottle pockets on the outside. It features a large zip-around opening for easy access, includes a microfibre change mat and two stroller straps. There is room for a 15' MacBook in the main compartment – and best of all, there are three stylish colours to choose from. 'Absolutely amazing nappy bag,' wrote a happy parent. 'There's so much room for the essentials plus the extras I need.' Another one wrote, 'Bought this for my daughter. She absolutely loves it. So many compartments for everything. Plenty of room in the main compartment. Looks very stylish. Comfortable to have on her back. Gorgeous and so practical.' Why we love it: Cool scandi style that goes perfectly with the Bugaboo pram What to consider: Your friends will be envious What You Need To Know I had the opportunity to trial this stylish nappy bag from Bugaboo, and I have to say I was impressed. Its backpack style is slim and sleek – yet roomy and practical with internal sections, a side pocket for water bottle and an external zippered pocket for keys, wallet and phone. It sits upright, making it easy to access contents and best of all, the front opens out with a detachable change mat. Made of recycled materials, it comes in a range of five chic tones. I was lucky enough to get my hands on Bugaboo's new and subtle desert taupe colour. The perfect nappy bag – and also back-to-work bag as not only is it completely aesthetic, but also the ideal size and shape for my laptop, lunch and pilates outfit! Why we love it: Easy access external pockets What to consider: Not as big as others Dimensions: 22.86cm x 8.26cm x 19.05cm Materials: Polyester | Care: Machine washable What You Need To Know If you're juggling both work and parenthood, this bag could have your back in more ways than one. Not only does it tick the baby bag essentials (including 10 pockets and a cushioned changing pad), its capacity can fit up to a 15-inch laptop, meaning you won't have to constantly switch between bags depending on what you're doing each day. Also, its unisex design means dads won't be put off by the thought of a 'handbag', which can only be a good thing for everyone involved. 'Love this bag!' wrote a five-star reviewer. 'Does not look very big, but it is quite spacious with lots of pockets/sections. Could definitely fit everything you could possibly need for a baby while on the go.' Another said, 'Awesome nappy bag, very roomy great pockets, very happy with it.' Why we love it: It turns any bag into a functional nappy bag What to consider: Your tote needs to be the right size for the insert to fit Dimensions: 37cm x 25cm x 16cm | Materials: Durable cotton canvas | Colour: Black, Sand What You Need To Know We're big fans of this clever idea from The Nappy Society: take your favourite designer tote and turn it into a functional nappy bag with their Original Baby Bag Insert. Made from lightweight, waterproof canvas, the insert offers seven pockets of varying size, including insulated bottle pockets. It comes in three different colours and at an extra cost, you can throw in a baby change mat, wet wipe pouch or stroller clips. Why we love it: Affordable price What to consider: Some customers found it smaller than expected Dimensions: 40.64cm x 15.24cm x 30.48cm | Material: Oxford cloth | Colour: Pink/Grey, Black, Dark Blue, Grey, Green, Peach, Multi-coloured What You Need To Know At a time when there seems to be so much to buy, this budget-friendly nappy bag is a welcome addition to the nursery. This backpack style bag offers 16 pockets, including a double zipper closure compartment, a waterproof pocket and three insulated pockets, so you can be well and truly organised. It also includes stroller straps, a changing mat and a zippered case to hold your baby's dummy. And while the price is low, the bag is made from strong tear and water resistant fabric, and is available in a range of chic colours. 'The Shitieshou diaper bag is an ideal combination of organisation, style, and convenience,' wrote a five-star reviewer on Amazon Australia. 'Whether for a short trip or a full day out, it allows us to carry everything our baby needs without sacrificing practicality.' BEST BACKPACK NAPPY BAG Why we love it: Spacious unisex nappy bag that's completely waterproof What to consider: Some customers found the underside of shoulder straps scratchy Dimensions: 17.78cm x 33.02cm x 43.18cm | Materials: Nylon | Colours: Green, Dark Grey, Grey, Khaki, Khaki/Black, Mint Green/Black What You Need To Know This unisex backpack-style nappy bag has thick padded straps that are comfy to carry, while evenly distributing weight over your shoulders and back. It offers heaps of usable space with two compartments, 18 pockets inside and out, and a back bottom zip opening. It stands wide open making for easy access and comes with two pram clips to hang over pram when you're on the go. Plus it's strong, durable and waterproof (and available in a range of chic tones) so up for whatever adventure you embark on. 'I debated a lot before getting the bag and it has exceeded expectations!' wrote a happy five-star reviewer. 'It's simply astounding the number of things I've managed to fit in for our weekend away trip. And everything is easy to access so no need to dig around for ages.' What we love it: Can be worn as either shoulder bag or backpack What to consider: Only available in black Dimensions: 35 cm x 37 cm x 16 cm | Material: Faux leather | Care: Wipe clean with damp cloth, dry naturally What You Need To Know Combining style and functionality, this London-designed nappy bag offers seven pockets for easy organisation as well as a multiway strap that converts from shoulder bag to backpack. Made from premium water resistant faux leather, it features a hidden zip pocket at back for phone, side pocket for bottles and wipes and an integrated stroller attachment so you can be hands (and hassle) free. Why we love it: Chic designer nappy bag What to consider: It comes with an expensive price tag Dimensions: 37cm x 25cm x 13cm | Material: 100 per cent polyamide | Colour: Pink, Taupe, Black What You Need To Know This super chic nappy bag from Armani will certainly stand out at the park, shopping centre or wherever you need to do a nappy change. The perfect way to stay stylish as well as super prepared for anything. It offers a decent internal compartment with separate pockets and a choice of gorgeous tones, one for every outfit! MIMCO Mulholland Baby Bag, $379.95 at THE ICONIC Why we love it: Generous with both space and style What to consider: May not fit your baby budget Dimensions: 57cm x 42.5cm x 17cm | Materials: 100 per cent recycled polyester | Colour: Black What You Need To Know MIMCO has turned a practical baby purchase into a must-have fashion accessory with this stylish baby change bag, featuring an adjustable and removable crossbody strap and easy to access top zip closure. It offers both internal and external pockets, a wet pouch, zippered pocket for valuables and an insulated lined bottle pocket. Made from recycled polyester and lined with cotton twill, it offers exceptional quality and enough space to accommodate most smartphones, laptop cases and tablets. Why we love it: A stunning leather bag What to consider: Wipe clean only Dimensions: 37cm x 33cm x 15cm | Material: Leather | Colour: Black, Grey Marl, Tan What You Need To Know Made from quality leather, this versatile nappy bag converts from handbag to shoulder bag to backpack and offers plenty of internal space with adjustable side pockets to increase capacity if needed. There are two outer zip pockets, insulated bottle compartment and detachable stroller clips to make life even easier. The style of a fashion accessory with all the functionality of an essential nappy bag. Why we love it: Super compact bag that transforms into an instant change mat What to consider: Minimal room for extras Dimensions: 30cm x 20cm | Material: Polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer | Care: Simply wipe clean What You Need To Know This pint-sized nappy bag is ideal for nappy changes on the go. You can strap it to your pram, toss it in a bag or carry it on your wrist. It rolls out to become a comfy change mat with one large internal zip pocket, one internal mesh pocket that holds three to four nappies and two internal bands to hold items you need in a hurry such as wipes. Plus, on the outside are two zipper pockets for essentials such as keys, phone and wallet. A great option for travelling with your baby when space is more limited and one that comes at a budget price. Anko Stroller Organiser, $19 at Target Why we love it: Great value for money What to consider: Minimal space Dimensions: 26cm x 26cm x 8.5cm | Material: Polyester | Colour: Black What You Need To Know If you don't want to lug around a huge nappy bag, you could always go for a stroller organiser. This handy bag attaches to your pram handle and offers enough space to keep your bottles, spare nappy, wipes and other essentials close at hand and readily accessible. It features multiple compartments, an internal zipper compartment and two external pockets. A pint-size option at a budget-friendly price. Why we love it: Sleek compact stroller bag that allows you to be hands free What to consider: Ideal for short outings and day trips Dimensions: 44cm x 14cm x 25cm; 10L capacity | Material: 100% recycled polyester | Colour: Sand, Black | Care: Clean with a damp cloth using mild soap What You Need To Know This stylish nappy bag provides a spacious main compartment with four inner pockets and one outer zip pocket. It has a shoulder strap for comfy carrying, but best of all, it comes with pram hooks that attach it easily to stroller or carrycot handle. The perfect nappy bag option that keeps essentials right where you need them without the hassle of hand luggage. WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A NAPPY BAG We took the following factors into consideration when selecting the nappy bags for this list: Size: Nappy bags all vary in size, but remember the more storage space you want, the bigger (and sometimes bulkier) the bag. Materials: Nappy bags come in a range of materials but you want to make sure your choice is built to last. Materials such as leather, faux leather and premium polyester are good options. Pram: Do you want your nappy bag to attach to your pram? Care: Nappy bags go through a lot even in a single day so you need one that is easy to clean and maintain. Lifestyle: Consider how you will use your nappy bag. Is it for travelling or simply day-to-day life and short outings? This will affect the type and size you need to purchase. Budget: Nappy bags can vary from $20 through to about $500, it just depends on what you're after. If you want something practical that does the job, you don't need to spend more than about $50. However if you're looking for a designer option or something made of 100 per cent leather, then the price will definitely go up. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS WHAT IS THE POINT OF A NAPPY BAG? While a nappy bag is most definitely to carry spare nappies when you're out and about, this is only the tip of the iceberg, so to speak. The nappy bag is what parents used to carry around all baby essentials. As well as the all-important nappies, this might include wipes, baby bottles, snacks, spare clothes, change mat, sun hat, baby sun cream, toys, not to mention phone, wallet, keys and laptop. The nappy bag keeps everything together in one place so that wherever you are, you're well equipped to deal with any baby situation that comes along. DO I REALLY NEED ONE? While you probably do need a bag for baby essentials, it doesn't have to specifically be a nappy bag. Any bag will do and often much cheaper. However, in saying that, nappy bags are designed to make life easier for parents with easily accessible space, multiple pockets both inside and out for easy organisation, insulated spaces for bottles/food and designated wet pouches in case of accidents. A good nappy bag is extremely useful, plus, it's a bag you carry around for a long time, so you want something you like and suits your lifestyle.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Potty Training Mistakes to Avoid: What Actually Helps Kids Succeed
How to know when your child is ready, what you need, and why letting go of pressure matters Potty training comes with plenty of opinions and plenty of pressure. It can feel like everyone has a strong take on when to start, how long it should take, or whether you need to do it over a single weekend. But every child is different. And when it comes to potty learning, a little flexibility (and a lot of patience) can go a long way. If you're getting ready to start, or you've hit a few bumps along the way, here are some of the most common potty training mistakes and what can actually help instead. 1. Starting during a major life change. One of the biggest mistakes? Trying to potty train during a time of transition. That includes vacations, new siblings, starting daycare, moving houses, or even having visitors stay over. Just like with sleep or feeding routines, kids do best with consistency. If their world is already shifting, adding potty training into the mix can feel overwhelming. It's also important to check in with yourself. If you're juggling stress or just don't have the mental space for a new routine, it's okay to wait. You need to be ready too. 2. Forcing it before they're ready. If your child is resistant or just not showing signs of readiness, it's usually best to pause. Potty training works best when it's a team effort, not a power struggle. Readiness signs to look for include: Showing interest in the toilet or watching others use it. Hiding to squatting to poop Waking up dry after naps or staying dry for longer periods Being able to pull pants up and down on their own Wanting to wear underwear or showing discomfort in wet diapers Want to hear more about signs of readiness? More tips from our experience? Watch this PedsDocTalk YouTube video on potty training do's and don'ts from a pediatrician. 3. Skipping the prep. Going into potty training without supplies or a plan can make everything more stressful. A little prep work can make a big difference. Here are some helpful tools to have on hand: A potty seat and/or small toilet: Offering both gives your child some autonomy and choice. Step stool: Helpful for handwashing or dumping the contents into the toilet. Underwear, of course!: Let your child help pick them out to get excited. Potty books: Choose ones that feature your child's favorite characters or topics. Chucks pads or towels: Accidents happen—these can protect couches or car seats. Cleaning supplies: Expect messes. Towels and a waterproof mattress cover may help. Support: Whether it's a partner, a friend, or just a little self-pep talk, support makes a difference. For more on knowing when you're both ready, what you'll need, and how to get prepared so you can be set up for success, download this free No-Pressure Potty Training PedsDocTalk Guide. 4. Being inconsistent. Even if a few days go great, kids can still hit what's often called a 'honeymoon phase,' where they regress or resist. This is completely normal. Instead of switching back to diapers or shifting strategies too soon, try to stay consistent. Keep the process calm and predictable. Offer gentle reminders like: 'Tell me when you need the potty.' 'Let's try to keep our underwear dry.' 'You did it! That's great, listening to your body.' Keep your language encouraging and matter-of-fact. And if accidents happen (which they will), respond with patience. 5. Putting potty training on pause every time you leave the house. Many families avoid leaving the house during potty training, but staying home indefinitely isn't necessary or helpful. While the first couple of days at home are ideal, it's okay to start taking short outings soon after. Bring a change of clothes, a portable potty seat if needed, and keep up the routine as best you can. Avoid going back to diapers 'just in case,' it sends mixed signals and can set things back. You don't need to hit pause on your life. Instead, treat potty training as something that travels with you. Final thoughts Potty learning is just that, a learning process. There will be steps forward and backward. What matters most isn't doing it perfectly or quickly. It's approaching the experience with patience, flexibility, and realistic expectations. Looking for more support and a step-by-step framework? Explore the PedsDocTalk No-Pressure Potty Training Course built to help you ditch the pressure and build a plan that actually works for your family.
The Sun
a day ago
- Lifestyle
- The Sun
A £1.50 Primark buy is a lifesaver for the summer holidays – it stops the kids moaning for snacks every 15 minutes
A SAVVY mum has revealed the £1.50 Primark buy that's saving her sanity this summer and parents are rushing to copy the idea. She shared her summer holiday struggle, trying to keep on top of her kid's "moaning" and endless snack requests. 2 The TikTok mum, known as @foodiefunwithus, now preps snack boxes for her kids each morning using the store's mini collapsing crates. Her clever trick seems to have put a pause on the children asking for snacks as they are now allocated a single box and have to responsibly control their portions. The crates cost just £1.50 each in Primark, making them cheaper than Dunelm's £3 version. They also come in pretty pastel shades including mint, cream and light pink. Posting online, the mum wrote: 'Now the summer holidays are here, so are the constant snack requests. 'Six small snacks. Their choice. Their timing. And if they want to eat them all before 10am, that's fine. But once they're gone, they're gone.' And it's not just a hack for cutting down the snack moaning, it's also teaching kids a little independence. 'It stops them nagging at you for more snacks,' she added. 'But it is also teaching them independence and decision-making.' Parents in the comments were obsessed with the idea. How to keep your paddling pool spotless and safe this summer One user wrote: 'I make lunch boxes just like school – it's the best!' Another said: 'This is such a good idea! Low cost too, trying not to overspend this summer." While a third added: 'I did this, it worked really well!' The handy crates have proved such a hit that they're flying off the shelves and at just £1.50 a pop, it's no wonder. It comes as Primark recently announced big changes to its kids' clothing range after months of feedback from parents. The budget retailer revealed it's ditching neck labels across its children's clothing and nightwear lines, after parents said the tags were uncomfortable, particularly for kids with sensory issues. The move will be rolled out across t-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies and pyjamas, with seamless socks also being introduced. So while you're stocking up on pastel crates to keep the snack moaning at bay, you might want to check out the new tag-free clothes too. How to survive six weeks of school summer holidays IF you are struggling with the six week summer holidays, you've come to the right place... BATTLING BOREDOM: Despite hours of activities and playdates, if your kids are already complaining there's nothing to do, parenting expert Liat Hughes Joshi says: 'Don't feel you have to organise every second of the holidays. Kids benefit from boredom and learn to make their own fun. 'Boredom can trigger creative and imaginative play but you need to encourage kids to get used to not being told how to spend their time. 'Ride out the pleas of boredom. Counter it with comments such as, 'What do you think you could do?' and maybe have a list of 'I'm bored' activity ideas on the fridge.' SCREEN OVERLOAD: It's tempting during the holidays to rely on a digital babysitter but don't let them gawp their whole summer away in front of a screen. Liat says: 'It's unfair to expect older kids to power down but it's important to set some ground rules. 'Set family tech rules together. If you're often distracted by your phone, follow the rules too. Maybe tell the kids they aren't allowed any screen time until they've done set chores, some exercise, or a board game. 'Are there times when you'd like to ban screens completely? Perhaps during dinner or when they have friends over to visit. 'Tech is a battleground for parents, but you have to set boundaries. Stand firm and be prepared to be unpopular.' TOO MUCH TOGETHERNESS: You love your kids, but being with them 24/7 can be exhausting. Do not feel guilty if you need a bit of downtime. Liat says: 'If you're juggling work and household tasks as well as occupying the kids, it's normal to start feeling overwhelmed or jaded and in need of some peace. 'If you can't afford or don't want to send your kids to all-day camps, look for free kids' workshops so you can get on with jobs or have a break for a couple of hours. 'Seeking a spell of quiet every now and then doesn't make you a bad parent — in fact it will probably make you more positive and enthusiastic when you are with the kids.' SCHEDULING CONFLICT: Schedules can go out the window during holidays, but late nights and early mornings can mean tired and unhappy children. Dr Tamara Bugembe, paediatrician and founder of says: 'Children get grumpy, test boundaries and become challenging when routines are broken. 'Sticking to some kind of routine during the holidays is a good idea. 'We release hormones at different times of the day and when regular meal times and bed times are broken, it causes dips and peaks in mood. 'Holidays are about having fun but an early night once or twice a week will make everyone happier.' EXCESS ENERGY: Make sure kids get out in the fresh air to tire them out — and make them healthier and happier. Dr Bugembe says: 'Sunshine also tops up vital vitamin D levels which helps improve bone strength and energy levels in children. Our levels run low in winter so let the kids stock up in warmer weather. 'Letting them run around in shorts and a T-shirt is the best way to top up. Make sure they're wearing sun cream, get outside and have fun. 'Encourage them to try healthy habits such as cycling and walking. They'll hopefully get hooked and want to carry them on when the weather gets colder.'
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Potty Training Mistakes to Avoid: What Actually Helps Kids Succeed
How to know when your child is ready, what you need, and why letting go of pressure matters Potty training comes with plenty of opinions and plenty of pressure. It can feel like everyone has a strong take on when to start, how long it should take, or whether you need to do it over a single weekend. But every child is different. And when it comes to potty learning, a little flexibility (and a lot of patience) can go a long way. If you're getting ready to start, or you've hit a few bumps along the way, here are some of the most common potty training mistakes and what can actually help instead. 1. Starting during a major life change. One of the biggest mistakes? Trying to potty train during a time of transition. That includes vacations, new siblings, starting daycare, moving houses, or even having visitors stay over. Just like with sleep or feeding routines, kids do best with consistency. If their world is already shifting, adding potty training into the mix can feel overwhelming. It's also important to check in with yourself. If you're juggling stress or just don't have the mental space for a new routine, it's okay to wait. You need to be ready too. 2. Forcing it before they're ready. If your child is resistant or just not showing signs of readiness, it's usually best to pause. Potty training works best when it's a team effort, not a power struggle. Readiness signs to look for include: Showing interest in the toilet or watching others use it. Hiding to squatting to poop Waking up dry after naps or staying dry for longer periods Being able to pull pants up and down on their own Wanting to wear underwear or showing discomfort in wet diapers Want to hear more about signs of readiness? More tips from our experience? Watch this PedsDocTalk YouTube video on potty training do's and don'ts from a pediatrician. 3. Skipping the prep. Going into potty training without supplies or a plan can make everything more stressful. A little prep work can make a big difference. Here are some helpful tools to have on hand: A potty seat and/or small toilet: Offering both gives your child some autonomy and choice. Step stool: Helpful for handwashing or dumping the contents into the toilet. Underwear, of course!: Let your child help pick them out to get excited. Potty books: Choose ones that feature your child's favorite characters or topics. Chucks pads or towels: Accidents happen—these can protect couches or car seats. Cleaning supplies: Expect messes. Towels and a waterproof mattress cover may help. Support: Whether it's a partner, a friend, or just a little self-pep talk, support makes a difference. For more on knowing when you're both ready, what you'll need, and how to get prepared so you can be set up for success, download this free No-Pressure Potty Training PedsDocTalk Guide. 4. Being inconsistent. Even if a few days go great, kids can still hit what's often called a 'honeymoon phase,' where they regress or resist. This is completely normal. Instead of switching back to diapers or shifting strategies too soon, try to stay consistent. Keep the process calm and predictable. Offer gentle reminders like: 'Tell me when you need the potty.' 'Let's try to keep our underwear dry.' 'You did it! That's great, listening to your body.' Keep your language encouraging and matter-of-fact. And if accidents happen (which they will), respond with patience. 5. Putting potty training on pause every time you leave the house. Many families avoid leaving the house during potty training, but staying home indefinitely isn't necessary or helpful. While the first couple of days at home are ideal, it's okay to start taking short outings soon after. Bring a change of clothes, a portable potty seat if needed, and keep up the routine as best you can. Avoid going back to diapers 'just in case,' it sends mixed signals and can set things back. You don't need to hit pause on your life. Instead, treat potty training as something that travels with you. Final thoughts Potty learning is just that, a learning process. There will be steps forward and backward. What matters most isn't doing it perfectly or quickly. It's approaching the experience with patience, flexibility, and realistic expectations. Looking for more support and a step-by-step framework? Explore the PedsDocTalk No-Pressure Potty Training Course built to help you ditch the pressure and build a plan that actually works for your family.
Times
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Times
‘We spend £9k a year on petrol driving our daughter around'
When Jo Mitchelhill and her husband, Graham, chose a private school in Canterbury for their daughter Jessica, 11, the cost of getting to school didn't cross their minds. Yet the decision would end up costing them more than £9,000 a Mitchelhills, from Sittingbourne, Kent, picked a school in Canterbury, 22 miles away, committing to seven years of 44-mile commutes, twice a day, five days a week. They also drive their daughter to clubs and competitions, meaning that their 'mum and dad taxi service' could rack up as much as 800 miles a week. It's a story many can relate to. Parents spend an average of 176 hours a year driving their children round, adding up to an astonishing 3,000 miles, according to Motorway, an online car marketplace. • Read more money advice and tips on investing from our experts The government's advisory fuel rates, which it provides for employees using company cars, suggest that the average cost of petrol is between 12p and 22p a mile and diesel between 11p and 17p a mile. So ferrying children to school and back, and to clubs and activities, can make a significant dent in household budgets. We look at the real cost to parents of providing a taxi service for their children. Jo Mitchelhill, 49, a parenting coach, and Graham, 58, a mortgage broker, struggled to find a school close to home which they felt was suitable for their daughter. 'The local schools didn't seem like a good fit — the grammar was too academic, and we wanted her to have equal focus on sport and art. But the comprehensive was enormous and we were worried she'd be lost in a year group of 300.' But with the new school 22 miles away, they quickly realised they had to take on a long daily commute. 'As we're both self-employed, we have flexibility over who does the school run, so we're lucky in that way,' Jo said. The Mitchelhills rack up 440 miles a week on the school run alone. But this isn't the end of the story. 'Jessica also does sport outside school. Netball is just six miles away once a week, but matches, which happen weekly, could be 20 miles away. 'She also plays hockey, which is 12 miles away when it's held at the local club, or 26 miles when it's held at Herne Bay, which happens a couple of times a month.' They go there and back twice, which can add 104 miles to the weekly total. Jessica also does pony club every week, which is a 20-mile round trip, and she sometimes takes part in competitions that can be up to 100 miles away. That could mean a weekly total of more than 800 miles, which would cost about £176, according to the government's figures. So, it's no surprise that the Mitchelhills noticed their petrol bill rocketing. 'When Graham told me our petrol was sometimes costing £250 a week, including our own work mileage, which can vary each week as we're both self-employed, we knew we had to make a change,' Jo said. They have now leased an electric car which has reduced their monthly cost to as little as £30. • Should you help your children to buy a home? Leanne Webster, from Perth and Kinross, also spends a large part of her time — and money — ferrying her four children, Jessica, 15, John, 14, Sophie, 11, and Daniel, 10, around. Webster, 43, who works as a maternal wellness mentor, makes a seven-mile drive to collect her daughter, Jessica, from school about twice a week. 'She has a medical condition and sometimes needs to come home.' Jessica also studies some of her subjects in Perth, about 40 miles away, and needs to be taken there twice a week. But it's the children's social lives that can turn a relatively modest commute into a big bill for Leanne. 'Jessica goes out about two or three times a week. Each time I'll drop her off and collect her from a friend's house; I drive about 15-20 miles,' Webster said. John also meets his friends in Aberfeldy about twice a week, which is another ten miles each way for Leanne. Sophie has an active social life, going on playdates almost every day of the week. Each friend lives 5-10 miles away and Webster usually drives both ways. Clubs also mean more taxi trips for Leanne. John is on the local football team, which trains twice a week, plus weekend matches can be up to 80 miles away. 'John also has Explorer Scouts twice a month, that's 21 miles away. And he goes swimming once a week at the local pool — a 14-mile round trip. 'Sophie also has scouts once a week in Aberfeldy. Daniel's friends are all local, although he, too, goes swimming once a week.' On weeks when John has an away game, Leanne could be covering about 750 miles. And even on quieter weeks, she does about 560 miles. In her diesel car, this could be setting her back about £128 a week and Leanne budgets up to £600 a month to cover fuel. 'I'm a single mum, self-employed and the only adult in the household, so I fit my business and my wants around the children's activities.' Carpooling or sharing lifts can help to cut costs. Using public transport or encouraging children to walk or cycle where possible can also cut bills, but these options aren't always available, or suitable for everyone. If savings cannot easily be made, it's important to remember that these hectic years won't last forever. 'Jessica won't be at her school for more than seven years,' Jo said. 'So while we're having to sacrifice big family holidays and a second car to afford the fees and transport, we see it as a worthwhile investment.'
