How to Change a Diaper While Snowshoeing

No matter how short of a hike you do, at some point you will have to change a diaper on the trail. During warmer months and shoulder seasons, this is usually a simple and quick task. However, during the winter months, it can be a bit more challenging, especially if you’re snowshoeing or hiking in snowy conditions.

So how do you quickly and comfortably change a diaper if there’s snow on the ground? Below I’ll share what you should pack to make it as comfortable as possible for your little one. No one enjoys having an exposed bottom in the cold. Being efficient and prepared is key to changing a diaper quickly.

How to change a diaper while snowshoeing

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Table of Contents

Create a Hiking Diaper Changing Kit

You definitely don’t want to get stuck on trail without diapers if your baby poops or has a blowout. Creating a diaper changing kit makes it easier to quickly change a diaper and feel prepared on a hike. The items in my diaper changing kit come with me on every hike year-round. I simply check the supply before leaving. It’s always together and ready for last minute adventures. Below is a list of items I pack in my diaper changing kit:

Diapers

Wipes

Travel wipe container or small package of wipes

Wet/dry bag

Compostable disposable bags for dirty diapers

Hand sanitizer

Lightweight changing pad

I use the large wet/dry bag to store all the items, which in turn makes sure the contents are also dry no matter the elements I encounter.

Packing Down Snow

Chances are if you’re hiking in the snow that there will be a significant amount on the ground. You may be able to find a warming hut or area with minimal snow to change a diaper, but sometimes that’s not the case. If you are out where there are inches to feet of snow, start by walking around an area multiple times to pack down the snow well. Make sure it’s a large enough area for you to sit and lay out all the gear you need in as well as your baby. Once you have a compact area of snow you can more easily change a diaper.

Using a Seat Pad

In the winter months, having a seat pad you can lay under them will help keep baby warmer during a change. You can even pack an ultralight foam backpacking pad to provide extra insulation since they are larger. Having a pad for yourself is also helpful to keep your legs warm and dry.

Tips on How to Quickly Change a Diaper While Snowshoeing

When you go to change them, limit how much skin is exposed by removing as little clothing as possible. Try to keep their upper layers on as much as possible. Lower their pants only as far as is needed. Keeping as many layers on them as you can will help prevent them from getting any colder than they need to be during the diaper change.

I’m sure this seems like a no-brainer, but change them as quickly as possible so they aren’t exposed to the cold elements for long.

If others are with you, they can help hand you items as you need it to help things move smoothly and as quickly as possible. If no one is with you, prepare ahead of time by pulling out supplies so they are ready to go. Dress baby quickly before bagging the dirty diaper.

Some people will put their babies in a diaper one size up so it can hold more in an attempt to not need to do any diapers on trail, but this can also run a risk of diaper leaks from too large of a diaper. I personally have never opted to try this and probably wouldn’t risk the leak since unless it’s poop, I don’t need to change my baby on trail often.

You can learn more about winter hiking in my guide “How to Be Safe Winter Hiking With a Baby.” Not only is it important to be prepared with the right gear, it’s also important o be knowledgeable on what to look out for.