Once you have a baby, you will soon find that space has a tendency of running out. Your room is filled up, your car is full of toys and car seats, and even your purse can barely close.
But baby companies have got your back. This is why diaper bags were created, to give you one area of life where space isn’t an issue, and making sure your child has all the necessities is a breeze.
Here are 15 of the top diaper bags we have found:
- Skip Hop Chelsea Downtown Chic Diaper Satchel (Our Rating A-)
- KF Baby Bohemian Diaper Bag Value Set (Our Rating B+)
- Kate Spade New York Diaper Bag (Our Rating B+)
- Skip Hop Duo Signature Carry All Travel Diaper Bag Tote (Our Rating A-)
- Diaper Bag by Hip Cub (Our Rating B+)
- Carter’s ZIP Fashion Diaper Bag (Our Rating A-)
- Diaper Bag for Boys and Girls with Matching Baby Changing Pad by Danha (Our Rating A-)
- SoHo Collection, Grand Central Station 7 piece Diaper Bag set (Our Rating B+)
- JJ Cole Hexagon Satchel (Our Rating B+)
- Gadikat Diaper Bag (Our Rating A-)
- Graco Gotham Smart Organizer System (Our Rating B+)
- HaloVa Diaper Bag Multi-Function Waterproof Travel Backpack (Our Rating B+)
- Ju-Ju-Be Legacy Collection B.F.F. Convertible Diaper Bag (Our Rating A-)
- Skip Hop Forma Travel Carry All Diaper Backpack (Our Rating B+)
- Chic Mommy Baby Diaper Bag and Backpack (Our Rating B+)
*All product links in this article will take you to the latest prices on Amazon.com, scroll down for our in-depth reviews below.
Diaper Bag Essentials
Finding the perfect diaper bag all depends on what it is you are planning on putting inside the bag. Baby Center gives a very thorough list of what you should make room for.
When it comes to changing, here is what your baby will need packed:
- 1 diaper per hour, at least
- Wipes for bottoms and hands in all messy situations
- Diaper rash cream
- Hand sanitizer, for after the change
- Plastic bags for the dirty diapers (or other messes)
For feeding, here is what needs to be packed:
- Bottles of either formula or pumped milk (unless you are exclusively breastfeeding), or a sippy cup for older babies
- Snacks for older babies
- Nursing cover and breast pads if you are breastfeeding
Some extras to bring along:
- Pacifier, if used
- Sun protection, whether a hat or sunscreen.
- Toys to keep your baby entertained
- First aid kit
Necessities for general Cleaning:
- Extra clothes for the baby
- Tissues
- Nail clippers for your baby
You will also most likely find yourself wanting to use the diaper bag as your purse as well, so you’ll need to figure in space for all of your usual purse supplies, plus any extras you may find yourself needing due to having a baby along, such as extra tops to keep yourself clean in the case of spit ups.
Features of Diaper Bags
What makes diaper bags different than just your purse is not just the increase in space, but also the many different features diaper bags have to offer built specifically for carrying baby supplies.
Many diaper bags come with a coordinating, portable changer. These are really helpful to turn any surface into a changing surface. Not to mention, these can also be used on public restroom changers to add an extra layer of cleanliness. If your diaper bag doesn’t come with a changing pad, they can be purchased separately and added to any bag.
Another essential to a diaper bag would be having a insulated pocket for bottles or food items that need to be kept at a certain temperature. Even if you are exclusively breastfeeding now, having that pocket for later on or in the situation when pumped milk will be used, it is good to have the pocket to keep the milk at a regulated temperature for the safety of your child.
Along with the idea of carrying bottles, you will definitely want to make sure you have a waterproof bag, or in the very least a waterproof pocket option. This will help keep spills inside the bag to stay inside, or water that is outside the bag to stay outside and not ruin your supplies inside.
If a bag has individually waterproof pockets as well, this would be even better as it will help contain those spills that occur inside your diaper bag. If this is not an option, zip lock bags can go a long way in keeping all your supplies clean and dry.
Pockets, pockets, and more pockets! This is a huge help to all moms. Especially when it comes to a new child. Last thing you want to be doing while your baby is screaming, is digging inside an endless cavernous purse for that tiny pacifier.
Instead, find a diaper bag with enough pockets so that everything can be accessed at a moment’s notice, whether it’s a diaper for a sudden blow out, or a band aid for a bleeding hand.
There are small differences in how the bag itself is made that can be more beneficial as well. For example, zippers can help keep items safety inside a purse, versus just a snap that leaves gaps.
In addition, Velcro can catch on clothing a lot easier than other closures. Another handy edition to have on any bag is feet. Feet help the bag stand on its own, so that you can easily dig through the bag while it is on a flat surface, or keep the bag upright to avoid spills.
Additionally, the feet can help keep the bag itself from touching less than clean surfaces that could soil the fabric.
Types of Diaper Bags
Diaper bags are more diverse than many other areas of baby products. One reason why they are so diverse is because they don’t have to fit a certain safety standard or test.
They are built purely for your convenience, which means the options are endless depending on what each company thinks is most convenient.
Even though diaper bags are very diverse, they can still be categorized. One way of doing this is by how they are carried, as this is one of the biggest deciding factors outside of the bag’s actual size for how parents choose their diaper bags.
Here are the main categories of diaper bags, and what these styles are specifically used for.
Shoulder BagsÂ
Shoulder bags are the large, over-the-shoulder type diaper bags that many moms use. This may be your first instinct to migrate towards if you are already used to wearing over-the-shoulder purses. As a result, these diaper bags can look most like a normal purse if that is the look you are trying to achieve.
While these bags are great when it comes to style, and can be easily pushed to the side as not to get in the way of carrying your child, they do have some disadvantages.
First off, if you are baby carrying in a wrap, having a strap come across your chest may not be the best idea. But on the other hand, if you just leave the bag on your shoulder, you may find yourself having to readjust it often to keep it from slipping off.
Another disadvantage is the weight. As you may already be aware from carrying around a shoulder purse, or if you were that college kid who carried their books in a messenger bag, over the shoulder bags put a lot more strain on your shoulder than some other styles.
If you are just taking a quick excursion with your little one, this may not be an issue. But if you have to pack a decent amount of baby supplies, your shoulder may be aching by the end of the trip.
One of the main attractive features of a shoulder bag is its convenience. This is why so many purses are made in this style, because of how accessible everything is. You just need to reach to one side to have access to all your supplies.
Totes
Totes are diaper bags that are meant to be carried by hand by two small handles. If the handles are long enough, which in most instances they are, they can even be slung on your shoulder.
This is again a top choice due to its close resemblance to purses. Companies tend to make more fashionable tote diaper bags than any of the other styles of diaper bags, so it would be a lot easier to keep up appearances with a tote bag than any other bag.
Totes are very versatile in their use, as you don’t have to worry if you child is on your back or front or stroller, you’ll still have a hand or shoulder available for the tote.
But on the down side, as with the shoulder bag, weight is a big issue. You will not need to pack much before starting to feel the strain. In addition, the bag is one of the most awkward to deal with.
If you have it in your hand, that is one less hand to be helping with your child. If you have it on your shoulder, than you’ll need to be concerned about adjusting it to keep it from slipping off.
Backpacks
Backpacks are the best option when it comes to freeing up your hands. This is perhaps the biggest selling point of a backpack as they are not the most fashionable of choices nor are they readily accessible in a moment’s notice. But they can definitely carry more without you feeling the weight as much, as the backpack distributes it evenly across both shoulders.
Backpacks can only be used if you are front carrying a child in a wrap, or pushing your child in a stroller. Most baby carriers will have thicker straps that will make the double shoulder straps of a carrier and backpack very uncomfortable.
Wraps on the other hand are thin enough that a backpack can still be comfortably worn in most cases.
Convertible
The convertible diaper bags are by far the most convenient. You can have the best of all worlds all wrapped up in one handy bag.
Convertible bags will have the straps for being either a shoulder bag, a tote, or a backpack. Some convertible bags will even have extra straps for hanging on a stroller. This way, you can switch up the bag depending on the specific occasion’s needs.
If you are just grabbing a few essentials, throw it into the tote for easy access. If you are planning a long day trip, pack up that backpack without a worry for your shoulders. The only downside is they tend to be bulkier and not as fashionable as the totes or shoulder bags.
Stroller Hangers
Stroller hangers are a very controversial style. Half of the mom blogs out there will caution against stroller hangers due to the risk of tipping your stroller with excess weight.
Other people encourage stroller hangers as the best hands free method. Perhaps it is wisest to take the middle road. You can use a stroller hanger, but do so with caution. Know the weight your stroller can handle and know the weight of your bag.
If your stroller has a bottom carrier basket, that would be a safer option to take over hanging a diaper bag over the handle bars of your stroller.
Other Styles
While those five styles are the main types of diaper bags, a few other styles do exist that aren’t as popular due to being very specific in their use. There are clutch diaper bags. These are tiny diaper bags just to be held in your hand. They can perhaps fit one or two diapers and not much else.
There aren’t too many occasions that this would be convenient, unless you want to make a quick run to the bathroom with your baby without having to lug the entire diaper bag with you, having a clutch inside handy for a quick grab and go may be an option for you.
Another style that some find convenient is a fanny pack diaper bag. This method keeps your supplies handy while keeping you completely hands free. This type of bag can only fit the bare necessities and would only be used in very specific circumstances where not much is needed.
Best Diaper Bags
Here are 15 popular diaper bags available and their reviews:
Skip Hop Chelsea Downtown Chic Diaper Satchel
The Skip Hop Chelsea Downtown Chic Diaper Satchel is the fashionista’s choice. This bag has more style than your average diaper bag, with its sleek black design. Skip Hop’s slogan is “Must haves, made better.â€
While the main advertising look of this bag is an over the shoulder satchel, it can also be converted to fit other needs. The main strap can be adjusted to fit any carrying need and size.
When a shoulder strap is not desired, this bag has carry handles that can be used instead. This purse even has the option to be converted to a stroller hanger.
This purse boasts of having plenty of pockets for all your needs. In total, the bag has 12 pockets. 8 of the pockets are on the outside, while 4 are interior pockets.
The entire purse’s dimensions come out to 17 inches long by 6.5 inches wide by 12 inches high. The purse is made from faux leather. The bag on its own does not weigh much at all, and is a great lightweight option while still being decently durable for the material.
Cons: This bag is going to be the bag of choice for those who would like fashion above practicality. This bag has many great features, but is missing some of the essentials such as size and waterproofing. But if you are more interested in a great-looking bag that will go along with any outfit, than this is a good choice. It is a very roomy shoulder bag which comes in three vivid color options, a black based bohemian pattern, a blue based pattern, or a red based pattern. This flexible satchel has multiple carrying methods. First, there is a long adjustable strap to go over the shoulder, or over your whole body, depending on whichever fits your needs more. This strap can easily be clicked on and off whether you need it or not. The other method is two tote handles. These are extra long and can be hand carried, or slung over your shoulder for convenience. A third method is stroller hangers. There are two small, clip based strap hooks that can be added to either side to hang this bag on a stroller. This is a larger tote bag. It’s dimensions are 14.5 inches long by 5.5 inches wide by 11.8 inches high. It comes with an insulated bottle holder. The bag is a canvas material, with a nylon interior. There are about four pockets on the outside for easy access. The inside has one more pocket as well as the roomy main compartment. The tote easily closes with a zipper closing. The side pockets close with Velcro. Cons: This is a great bag for those who value space and color. The bright color options are a very attractive trait over some of the single colored bags and backpacks out there. In addition, it will be hard to find another bag with as much room as this one has. It costs to look good, and this bag is up there in price, being the second most expensive option on this list. And yet mothers still seem to love Kate Spade diaper bags, because they find their worth outweighs the cost. Kate Spade offers an array of designs and colors to fit every mother’s taste. It also offers three carrying methods. You can either use the two handles for a tote option, or use the removable shoulder strap for a more convenient over the shoulder option. There are also attachable stroller straps if you opted for hanging it on your stroller. In total, the bag is about 18 inches long by 12 inches high by 5.5 inches wide. The entire bag is water resistant, made from a nylon, vinyl trim, and a polyester lined interior. The bag comes with a coordinating changing pad. There are quite a few pockets for organization available. The interior has one zip pocket and two open pockets as well as a diaper pouch. The top zips easily shut for a secure close. Each end of the bag has open pockets available for easy access storage. There is even an insulated pocket for bottles or food.  Cons: This is a more high end diaper bag for those who want style and practicality. This bag is great quality with all you could need in a diaper bag. You get the added benefit of the great name of Kate Spade. This diaper bag comes in either blue or black stripes. It is a convertible tote that has an adjustable shoulder strap, as well as removable stroller straps. The bag also comes with a matching stripped changing pad. The bag is made from a faux leather on the outside and a polyester on the inside. This purse boasts of being very roomy. It has a full six pockets. These six pockets include two side pockets, two external pockets, and two internal compartments. The main compartment than is easily closed with a zipper. The two side pockets are sized to fit bottles. The two external pockets are waterproof for storing anything that may be wet.  Cons: If you’d like the style without the price tag, this is a great option. There will be some compromises made on waterproofing and insulated pockets that this bag is lacking in, but it makes up for it with its very desirable space. This bag is made to carry all you may need for an entire day or longer. It is not just a bag for your child, but a bag for you, with extra features for carrying a parent’s belongings as well. The bag can be carried in three different ways. There is the adjustable over the shoulder strap that has the added comfort of a shoulder pad. There are also two handles for a tote style carrying option. And then there are the removable stroller straps for when you’d like to hang the bag on your stroller. The bag is 33 inches long by 11 inches wide by 35 inches high. It boasts of a total of 10 pockets. Two of these pockets are elastic, mesh pockets for bottles. For the parents, there is even a pocket for technology such as laptops or iPads. One of the pockets have a D-ring that can easily be used to attach anything from your child’s pacifier to toys. The bag comes with a changing pad. Cons: This bag is for parents who would like the space and organization of plenty of pockets. There are more fashionable options available than this bag, but if practicality is the top of your list, than this bag might just fit your bill. This tote offers two carrying methods. You can either carry it as a tote, or use the concealable stroller straps to hang it on your stroller. It also has eight pockets for organizing your belongings. There are multiple interior and exterior mesh pockets for storing bottles or anything else you need kept securely upright. The main compartment closes with a zipper. One of the unique features of this bag is its side zipping changing pad. The side of this bag will zip down, allowing you to easily unfold the attached changing pad. This changing pad can easily be removed by Velcro if desired. The entire purse is 100% polyester. It measures about 15.8 inches by 4.5 inches by 12 inches. The bag is a good, medium sized diaper bag. While it is not the largest, it is definitely large enough to hold the basics.  Cons: If you are looking for style without compromising your budget, this bag is a great option to consider. It is not the most convenient bag when it comes to carrying options or insulated pockets. But it does have some very great marketable features such as its classy look and handy changing pad that still make it a very desirable option. A removable shoulder strap can be added if a messenger style is more desired. There is even an option to change the bag into a stroller hanger. This bag has 10 pockets. Four pockets are along the outside, and six line the inside. The main compartment is then closed with a zipper. The inside pockets have elastic tops to help keep your bottles and other items upright and avoid spills. The bag is made out of a canvas material. There is a matching, stylish changing pad that comes with the bag.  Cons: This is another affordable option that still has a little more style than regular diaper bags, for those who like canvas style totes. There is plenty of room for the basics, as well as enough pocket storage to keep it all organized. The seven pieces of this diaper bag set all come in the same beautiful pattern. First, there is the main tote bag for carrying around all you may need for your baby. In addition, you have a smaller purse with a handle for the quick grab and go moments where you may just need the basics. There are then two accessory bags for better organization and storage of smaller items. There is also a changing pad included. Lastly there is an insulated bottle bag that can be thrown in the bag, or any bag you’d like to convert into a diaper bag. The last two pieces of the 7 piece set are the two stroller hanger attachments. All the attachments and extra bags fit neatly inside the main tote bag. The bag itself has two long tote handles on either side for easily carrying in your hand or hanging on your shoulder. The bag itself is made from 100% polyester. The bag has four external pockets and six internal pockets. Two of the external pockets are on the front of the bag and close easily and securely with a zip. The other two external pockets are on either end of the bag. The six internal pockets line the inside with elastic tops to help keep your items secure and upright. Cons: This bag has all a diaper bag should at a great value. There are not that many diaper bag sets that can boast as many additions as this set does. The main compromise being made in this bag is the quality. If you are looking for a long term bag, perhaps another bag might be better. But if you like the value, this is a great choice. This bag is first and foremost a tote, with an attachable, padded shoulder strap if desired. There are also two detachable grips included, which are used to attach the bag to your stroller. This bag has a total of eleven pockets for the ultimate organization. Seven of these pockets are exterior pockets. There are two side pockets perfect for bottles. There are then two smaller zipper pockets for those quick necessities you need easy access too. The last two exterior pockets are large side pockets. The four interior pockets line the sides with elastic tops to keep your supplies and bottles upright. The bag does include a changing pad.  Cons: JJ Cole has made another practical item with a very stylish twist. This bag is sure to go along with most any outfit without screaming diaper bag. While in some respects it is not as high quality as might be expected, it is still a beautiful bag that will hold up and work for moms who like the options this bag offers. While it may not be every single mother’s dream, it definitely offers more in features and options than many other diaper bags on the market. This diaper bag is first and foremost a backpack. In addition it can be converted to a tote with the included straps. It also has two carry handles. These three options make it very versatile for every mother’s needs. The backpack has seven inner pockets. These pockets include a zip mesh pocket, 5 inner pockets, and 1 laptop pocket. There is even an insulated pocket for bottles. This backpack also has a divider for additional organization inside the huge main compartment. The bag comes with a coordinating changing pad.  Cons: This is a great all-inclusive backpack. While the size may be overwhelming for some, others will find this the perfect bag for all their needs. In addition, it will be hard to beat the great organizational options as well as the other unique features. The bag has padded straps for a comfortable carrying option. When needed, there is a small tote handle to carry the bag short distances. The pockets are very easy to access through zip down coverings. There are two zip down coverings on the front of the backpack that reveal inner pockets with elastic tops. On one side of the backpack is an insulated bottle holder that can hold up to two bottles. The other side has a wipes dispenser that gives the mother an easy access to the wipes. The bag comes with a changing pad.  Cons: This diaper bag can fit in everyone’s budget, plus have all the great features a diaper bag should have. While there aren’t other carrying options available, this is a comfortable backpack option for the practical mom. The backpack comes with padded, adjustable shoulder straps. There are two tote handles on the top for another carrying option. There are five internal pockets, three insulated bottle holders, and a convenient tissue pocket on the side. The back of the backpack has a waterproof pocket for wet clothes. The rest of the backpack is water resistant. The entire backpack is 10.6 inches by 8.3 inches by 16.5 inches. Cons: This backpack is a great, affordable option for those looking for an attractive, yet affordable diaper backpack. What it is lacking in quality, it makes up in the great features and appearance. This backpack is a convertible bag. The main carrying method is as a backpack with two wide, padded shoulder straps. The shoulder straps can be removed and a messenger bag straps can be added instead for use as a messenger bag. In addition, there is a small tote handle on the top for a third carrying option. There are a ton of pockets both inside and outside the backpack. The pockets include two insulated bottle pockets. A third zippered pocket is also on the outside. There are also four internal pockets. Moms will appreciate the mommy pocket on the outside. This pocket includes organization options for all of mom’s belongings such as a fob ring, a sunglasses holder, and a general zip pocket. The backpack comes with a high quality changing pad. Cons: This Ju-Ju-Be convertible backpack is both fashionable and practical. The many convertible options will fit any mom’s needs. In addition, the easy cleaning options make keeping this bag sanitary very easy. There are many great features for any mom who doesn’t need the extra space. The backpack comes with two adjustable padded shoulder straps. This backpack can also be converted into a stroller hanger for a secondary hands-free carrying option. The backpack also comes with a changing pad. The front of the backpack has easy access pockets for all those quick needs. There is an insulated cube for storing bottles in, that can be stored in any of the pockets. The changing pad pocket is large enough to hold a 15 inch laptop if desired. The side pockets are also insulated for bottles. Cons: There are four options to convert this backpack into. First, you can use the shoulder straps as a regular backpack. The second option is one long messenger bag style strap. The third option is two tote bag carrier handles. The fourth and last option is two stroller hanger straps. The backpack itself is a square shape, being 14 inches by 14 inches so that the bag looks good no matter what carrying option you choose. There are four pockets on the outside and five pockets on the inside for ultimate organization. The bag comes with a changing pad. Cons: This is the ultimate convertible backpack. While there are many other convertible backpacks on the market, there are hardly any with this many options as well as many popular reviews. With the fun striped pattern, this backpack is not only versatile, but also fashionable. Diaper bags are as diverse as the moms who use them. This is why each mother has to figure out what is important to her when choosing a diaper bag, whether it’s versatility, space, or fashion, there is a diaper bag for every need. But if you are looking for one bag that best fits everyone’s needs, that would be the  Ju-Ju-Be Legacy Collection B.F.F. Convertible Diaper Bag. The Ju-Ju-Be backpack can be easily converted to nearly any option you need, making it versatile enough for every mom out there. There are also not just one, but two insulated bottle holders which is a necessity for moms who need to keep milk at a good temperature for the safety of their child. This is also one of the easiest bags to clean. While it is not as large as some of the other diaper bags, it is still large enough to hold the necessities for your child. This is what makes the Ju-Ju-Be one of the best options when it comes to a diaper bag for your child.
KF Baby Bohemian Diaper Bag Value Set
The KF Baby Bohemian Diaper Bag Value Set adds plenty of style and color to your outings with your little one. The bag is made by the Kilofly Group.
Kate Spade New York Diaper Bag
The Kate spade New York Diaper Bag just screams style, and whispers diaper bag. This bag has mothers all over the internet going crazy over the fact that they can carry all their child’s essentials without losing the class and fashion they had before. Kate Spade is not only beautiful, it’s also practical.
Diaper Bag by Hip Cub
The diaper bag by hip Cub’s slogan is “Where fashion meets practicality.†This bag gives you a little more style, while still maintaining all your basic needs of a diaper bag. It is a spacious option, with a more affordable price tag than some of the other designer fashion bags.
Skip Hop Duo Signature Carry All Travel Diaper Bag Tote
The Skip Hop Duo Signature Carry All Travel Diaper Bag Tote takes their classic bag that is much loved and trusted, and makes it even larger and better.
Carter’s ZIP Fashion Diaper Bag
Carter’s ZIP fashion diaper bag is another affordable diaper bag that still maintains the style of a purse. This purse offers a unique zip down feature for a quick and easy change when your child needs one.
Diaper Bag for Boys and Girls with Matching Baby Changing Pad by Danha
The Diaper bag for boys and girls with matching baby changing pad by Danha is a great convertible tote bag option. There are two small tote handles on either side.
SoHo Collection, Grand Central Station 7 piece Diaper Bag set
The Grand Central Station 7 piece diaper bag set from the SoHo collection is an incredible deal for one of the most affordable prices in diaper bags. This set is not just the diaper bag and changing pad, but rather 7 separate pieces for the utmost organization.
JJ Cole Hexagon Satchel
The JJ Cole Hexagon Satchel can boast of the well known name of JJ Cole who makes fashionable baby products with a higher quality. There are a striking seven color and pattern options with this bag.
Gadikat Diaper Bag
The Gadikat diaper bag likes to boast that it is every mother’s dream, having all that a diaper should and could have to make the ultimate diaper bag experience.
Graco Gotham Smart Organizer System
The Graco Gotham Smart Organizer System is a very affordable backpack style with impressive organizational options. While this is not the most fashionable looking diaper bag, it is a great practical option.
HaloVa Diaper Bag Multi-Function Waterproof Travel BackpackÂ
The HaloVa Diaper Bag Multi-Function Waterproof Travel Backpack is a top seller in diaper bag backpacks. It comes in a variety of six stunning colors. One of the best parts is its affordable price on top of its many features.
Ju-Ju-Be Legacy Collection B.F.F. Convertible Diaper Bag
The Ju-Ju-Be Legacy Collection B.F.F. Convertible Diaper Bag is one of the more fashionable choices in the category of backpacks. This diaper bag is a more expensive option, but has some great options for those who have the budget for this bag.
Skip Hop Forma Travel Carry All Diaper Backpack
The Skip Hop Forma Travel Carry All Diaper Backpack tries to provide the best hands-free diaper bag. Skip Hop adds a more fashionable look to their diaper bag, making it great for any outfit. There are four different color options for this quilted diaper backpack.
Chic Mommy Baby Diaper Bag and Backpack
The Chic Mommy Baby Diaper Bag and Backpack is a four in one convertible option for the moms who just can’t decide what would work best for their needs. In addition, it comes with an attractive stripped design for a more fashionable look.
The WinnerÂ