Potty training is a big milestone for both toddlers and parents, and like any major learning experience, it doesn’t stop just because you leave the house. Whether you're heading to the park, a café, or embarking on a longer journey, venturing out while your child is still learning can feel a little daunting. The key is preparation. With a few thoughtful steps, you can make potty training on the go a more comfortable and confident experience for everyone involved. Here’s how to get ready and what to keep in mind once you're out and about.

Potty training on the go begins before you leave home. Taking time to plan your outing in advance will ensure you and your little one are ready to handle any toilet-related needs calmly and confidently. Thinking ahead about the environment you’re going into and what your child might encounter is one of the best ways to avoid stressful surprises.

Keep a small, dedicated bag ready to grab whenever you’re heading out. This kit ensures all the essentials are in one place and helps avoid the need to rummage through your main bag in a moment of urgency. Your travel potty kit could include: 

• A full change of clothes (top, bottom, socks, underwear)

• Flushable wipes or a travel pack of wet wipes

• A resealable wet bag to contain any messy items until you get home

• A favourite potty-time book or other comfort object

This simple kit can go a long way in making both you and your child feel prepared. Being equipped helps you stay calm and gives your child confidence in knowing you’ve got their back.

If your child is using potty training flashcards at home, be sure to take them along. Familiar visuals can bring comfort in unfamiliar places. The Potette Potty Training Flashcards, developed by our Potty Training Expert Susan Wallace, are a great option. These cards use Baby Sign to support communication before your child has the words to explain what they need. Stronger communication helps reduce frustration and builds a sense of independence during potty training. 

Consistency is key in potty training, so bringing along a seat that feels familiar helps your little one relax when nature calls away from home. We recommend the Potette® Max 3-in-1 as it works as:

• A standalone potty (with a reusable hard liner)

• A travel potty (using disposable biodegradable liners)

• A toilet training seat (fits most public toilets)

This kind of flexibility is incredibly useful for parents on the go. Whether you're at the park, in the car, or somewhere without immediate access to a toilet, you can quickly unfold the Potette® Max 3-in-1 and use it as a standalone potty. Simply line it with a disposable biodegradable liner and dispose of it hygienically in the nearest bin. If your child prefers to use a regular toilet, the Potette folds flat to become a toilet seat reducer, giving them the comfort of a familiar seat even in public restrooms.

 The added bonus is that if you have two children at different stages of potty training, you don’t need two separate products. The Potette® Max 3-in-1 can easily accommodate both as it functions as both a potty and a toilet training seat. It’s compact enough to fit in a backpack or store under a buggy, making it an ideal choice for travel or days out. Plus, it holds up to three liners within the potty itself, so if you're caught short and only have a second to react, you can pop it open and be ready right away.

Get into the habit of visiting the toilet just before leaving the house and again when you return. This routine builds confidence and reduces the chances of an accident while you’re out.

Wherever you're headed, take a moment to scout out the nearest toilet options. Whether it's a local park, shopping centre, or restaurant, knowing the location of the nearest facilities saves you from rushing around in a panic later.

It can be difficult to remember that going to the toilet in an unfamiliar setting may be unsettling for a child. If your little one is finding this new process challenging, it can be useful to show them beforehand any changes they might face in public. For example, show your child how a hand dryer works or how a public toilet flushes - especially if the toilet has an automatic flush. These are things that can be noisy and a little bit scary for a young child. Showing them beforehand how to use them can make this process a little less intimidating. 

Remember that potty training outside the home is a big deal. If your child uses the potty while you're out, praise them just as you would at home. Let them know they’re doing a great job, even if there are a few extra steps to take in a new setting. Reinforcing their success helps them understand that the process is the same, even when the environment changes.

And don't forget to give yourself credit too. Taking potty training on the road takes patience and planning. Celebrate those wins, however small they may be. 

Accidents are part of learning. If your child has an accident while you’re out, remain calm and reassuring. Never shame or scold. A gentle reminder can go a long way, such as saying, “Wee’s like the potty. Let’s try to get to the potty next time.” This approach keeps your child feeling safe and supported, which is essential for continued progress.

Potty training on the go is a real parenting challenge, but it’s also an opportunity to build your child’s confidence and reinforce good habits in the real world. With the right tools, routines, and mindset, you can help your little one navigate new environments without setbacks. Pack your essentials, keep a cool head, and celebrate every step forward.