A diaper bag seems like a pretty straightforward purchase, right? It’s a big bag that holds a bunch of stuff that you will need for an outing with your baby. Simple enough.
Until you realize that you’ll be carrying around a lot of stuff. Stuff that needs to be organized for easy access and can weigh quite a bit, so much so that whatever is carrying it needs comfortable straps, etc.
Therefore, a good diaper bag requires more planning than you may have thought. But, hey, that’s why we’re here; to offer you some buying tips and review a few of our favorites.
What to look for in a great diaper bag
Organization
While it might be tempting to simply buy a large tote bag and call it a day, we do caution against this. As products designed with Mom and Baby in mind, the best diaper bags will have compartments for you to store the necessities for fast and easy access. Things like diapers, wipes, rash cream, toys, and snacks will all have a place, and you’ll be able to reach into your bag and retrieve whatever you need instantly. Your baby will keep you plenty busy, so even saving a few seconds here and there is a perk.
Look for bags with lots of pockets, so many that you think you’ll never use all of them. We guarantee you will find something to put in every single one! Carrying around a purse and a diaper bag can be a lot, so things like keys, cell phone, makeup, etc. will end up in those pockets, too.
Related: Tips on How to Pack a Diaper Bag
Insulated pockets
If you are going to be out and about for the day, you might want to look for a diaper bag that has a few insulated pockets. That way, you can safely carry around your breast milk or formula without having to worry about bringing cooling or warming packs.
Editor’s note
Freshly expressed breast milk can be stored at room temperature for 6 hours or in an insulated cooler with ice packs for 1 day. 1Breast milk storage: Do’s and don’ts
mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/breast-milk-storage/art-20046350
Prepared infant formula must be used within 2 hours if at room temperature. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. If your baby has started to drink the formula it must be used in an hour.2Infant Formula Preparation and Storage
mcdc.gov/nutrition/InfantandToddlerNutrition/formula-feeding/infant-formula-preparation-and-storage.html
Comfort
With all the necessities and extras you will be carrying around, it’s essential to choose a comfortable bag. Whether your preference is a tote style, messenger-bag or backpack style, you want something that won’t make you cringe at the thought of taking a long walk with it.
Related: The Best Diaper Backpacks to Buy in 2021
Velcro kills dreams
Okay, that may sound a little over the top. But picture this; you have an infant sleeping soundly in the stroller as you go about your errands. Suddenly, you realize that you’re a bit parched and need to retrieve a water bottle stashed in your diaper bag. You pull open that velcro-sealed compartment, and suddenly that dreaming baby is wide awake, demanding your attention. Oops, that drink of water will have to wait…
Aside from the noise, Velcro also sticks to a lot of fabrics and eventually wears out. Our advice? Go with a zipper.
Stroller straps
If you are traveling with your little one in a stroller, look for a bag with a secure strap to tether it securely. Just remember that a heavy bag can weigh the stroller down, causing it to tip over backward.
Cleanability
An obvious red flag lies in the name, “diaper bag”. You will be cleaning your diaper bag occasionally, so make sure you pay attention to how easy the fabric is to clean, both inside and outside. A bag that is machine washable automatically earns some serious “brownie points” in our eyes.
With those tips in mind, let’s move on to some of our picks for the best diaper bag.
The best backpack style diaper bags
Hands-free isn’t just for cellphones when it comes to buying things for your baby. Here are some of our favorite diaper bag picks you can wear on your back.
Top pick
Our opinion
This bag comes with two front packing cubes for extra storage in an already roomy bag. It not only looks fashionable but is water resistant and hangs on the stroller for extra convenience.
The side pockets are insulated, keeping baby’s bottle fresh, while the elasticized pockets can easily accommodate all essentials, plus your own personal travel items.
Not machine washable, but fabric is easy enough to spot clean as needed.
Size: 16″ x 8″ x 14″
Changing bag included?: Yes
Our second choice
Our opinion
This bag comes with two front packing cubes for extra storage in an already roomy bag. It not only looks fashionable but is water resistant and hangs on the stroller for extra convenience.
The side pockets are insulated, keeping baby’s bottle fresh, while the elasticized pockets can easily accommodate all essentials, plus your own personal travel items.
Not machine washable, but fabric is easy enough to spot clean as needed.
Size: 16″ x 5″ x 12″
Changing pad included?: Yes
The best tote style diaper bags
If you prefer a bag you can sling over your shoulder, we’ve got you covered. Here are some of our favorites.
Our third choice
Our opinion
This diaper bag could easily be mistaken for a stylish purse. It’s pocket heaven for mothers on the go and includes an insulated bottle pocket. Matching grips are included with this bag, so you can easily attach it to your stroller for extra convenience. A removable, padded strap allows you to quickly convert this diaper bag into messenger-bag style, and the fabric is easily spot cleaned.
Size: 18″ x 7″ x 12″
Changing pad included?: Yes
Our fourth choice
Our opinion
Available in multiple styles, choose a design that suits you when you buy this product. And rest assured, this bag isn’t just a pretty face. A total of 11 pockets gives you plenty of room to store everything you need. You will even be able to safely carry bottles or other drinks as the side pockets are insulated. You can wear it multiple ways, or strap it to your stroller if you prefer the hands-off approach to purses.
Size: 17″ x 6″ x 12″
Changing pad included?: Yes
Affordable (and awesome!) diaper bags
We can certainly understand not wanting to spend a huge amount on a diaper bag, or even just wanting an affordable backup bag. Here are some products that give you plenty of bag for your buck.
Our fifth choice
Our opinion
This bag is a steal at under $20. Exterior includes 3 front zip pockets large enough hold your on-the-go necessities and 1 special-design back. It can be carried three ways; either as a tote, a messenger bag, shoulder bag, or attached to a stroller with included clips.
With changing pad, 1 detachable shoulder strap and 2 detachable stroller Velcro attach straps.
Size: 7.9″ x 6″ x 13.5″
Changing pad included?: Yes
Our sixth choice
Our opinion
Another product that comes in at $10, this bag has tons of space and is lightweight. Made from water-resistant microfiber, you can carry this bag in tote style.
Size: 13 x 5.1 x 12.6 inches
Changing pad included?: No
Wrapping up
While there are many diaper bags on the market, these are the ones that caught our eye. Hopefully, we have taken some of the stress out of finding a great product. After all, who wants to be poring over hundreds of options when they could be spending a beautiful day at the park with their baby?
The world is full of things and places for you and your baby to explore. With these diaper bags, you don’t have to worry about packing light. Enjoy your adventures and remember, even what seems like a simple, everyday errand to you will hold new sights and sounds for your child.
