If all you have is a spare towel or surf poncho, then that will provide a makeshift changing pad, but the products in this list will do the job far better. Made from 100% low-density polyethylene, these buckets are useful for so many things and available in a range of colors. While a changing mat may not be the most exciting baby purchase, the best changing mats can help dealing with nappy changes more enjoyable for everyone. Just open it up, stand on it, discard your clothes onto it, and pull the drawstring to seal it all in.

Made from long-lasting recycled rubber, these mats are about as durable as they come and provide some of the best grip and drainage of any kind of flooring. While it is collapsible and easily portable, it is not as compact as other options, but that is the trade-off you make for having a sturdier changing mat.

And as long as you don’t need it to turn into a bag, this might be the wetsuit changing mat for you. The foam inside is thick and supportive, and the raised wedge sides discourage your baby from rolling as well as helping to contain any nappy changing accidents too. Annoyingly, it can only be hand washed rather than flung in a washing machine, which adds extra faff to proceedings. Mini Changing Mat - small but perfectly padded, this changing mat can be used when out and about but also handy to keep as a spare at the grandparents house.

It’s 100% waterproof so won’t soak up water from the changing room floor, and the top is anti-stick, so it’s easy to shake sand off if you're at the beach. Unfortunately, it is quite compact, especially if you want to take lots of other things out with you and your baby.

This basic change mat probably isn’t quite as comfy as the Shnuggle Squishy Changing Mat or as snazzy as the Mama Shack Anti-Roll Changing Mat.

They are generally made from wipe-down fabrics which are quick and easy to clean and some have built-in storage too, providing a small amount of space for your essentials such as nappies and wipes. You can rest assured that our baby mats are made with nursery grade, non-toxic (phthalate free) fabric, are wipe clean and waterproof! A wetsuit changing mat's a nifty piece of tri kit that you don't realise you're missing until you can't live without it! Made from super soft 100 per cent cotton with a cosy, quilted design, this portable nappy changing mat makes nappy changes almost relaxing for your baby, providing a comfortable place to lie whilst you get them clean and dry. VERDICT: If you are surfing in a hot climate, then the last thing you want is a hot black surface that will burn your feet off.With ample built-in storage, it makes a convenient alternative to your changing bag, with a concealed mesh pocket wipe dispenser and a spacious zipped compartment for housing your nappies, cream and spare clothing. They are cheap and last a long time which makes them ideal for surfers who are notoriously hard on their gear. The benefit of having a fully waterproof surf changing mat is that it can either be used to wash your feet in a shallow bath of water or can be used to transport wet clothes. The annoying thing about getting in and out of your wetsuit is getting sand in there that will rub when in use.

VERDICT: If you were going to use some kind of basin to wash your feet or even shower back at the car, then this rubber matting can be bought in large sizes and cut down to fit inside the basin for drainage. I would say that my baby doesn’t fit on it properly now she is over a year, so it’s a shame it doesn’t grow with your baby. It is an advantageous water accessory that enhances any water experience and takes out the aggravation of a sandy wetsuit.The naturally sanitising fabric can not only help stow away bacteria, but it’s also quick and easy to wipe down after use. It can be rinsed off and dries easily, but the reason it is our favorite is that it gets sand out from between your toes and off your feet, as well as looking the coolest. The other benefit of changing at your car is that you can get straight into your hooded surf poncho to warm up and have a tea/coffee.