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Leaving the house with a new baby can feel intimidating. It seems like they have so many needs all the time — diapers, bottles, pacifiers, diapers, lovies, more diapers, clean clothes. How can you be expected to manage all those needs and get through the grocery store?

Enter the perfect diaper bag. Finding the right combination of size, style, organization, budget, and usefulness can be a challenge. There are so many bags on the market, how can you know which one is right for you?

We’ve got you covered.

We’re also busy parents, who appreciate the appeal of the right bag. Some of these are bags we’ve used. For those we haven’t personally used, we consulted reviews. We also talked to other parents, from those with newborns to those with preschoolers, parents to single babies and multiple kids, and parents with a variety of style and budget needs.

Price guide

  • $ = under $50
  • $$ = $50-$100
  • $$$ = over $100

Best backpack diaper bags

Backpacks have the advantage of leaving your hands free for baby wrangling, stroller pushing, snack feeding, and all the other things that will keep you busy on the go.

Itzy Ritzy Boss Diaper Bag Backpack

Price: $$$

We’re just going to start by saying this: 17 pockets. If you’re super into organization, you can bet there’s a pocket for everything in this bag.

In addition to the storage, this bag is a stylish option, thanks to vegan leather accents and gorgeous color options. The front section fully unzips for easy access to all your gear.

And for anyone who’s had to put their bag on a dirty bathroom floor – the base features rubber feet you can easily clean with a sanitizing wipe.

Pros

  • includes stroller straps and changing pad
  • variety of color options
  • lots of storage and organization

Cons

  • some small pockets
  • no pouch for wipes
  • heavier on its own than many other bags

Ruvalino Multifunction Travel Backpack

Price: $

Tons of pockets, an included changing pad, and a simple, stylish design make this backpack appealing to many. Parents are big fans of the one-handed accessibility of many of the pockets as well as the design of the pockets and sections that allow for easy organization.

Many online reviewers appreciated the good customer service provided by the company, and the lower price compared to some similar options.

Pros

  • side pockets big enough for your water bottle
  • wipes pocket on one side
  • two large main sections — can even hold your laptop

Cons

  • doesn’t include stroller straps
  • some small pockets
  • zipper issues for some reviewers

Best convertible diaper bags

These bags combine the great benefits of backpack-style bags with the benefit of being able to quickly convert to crossbody bags to hand carry bags or to hang from the stroller.

JuJuBe B.F.F. Diaper Bag

Price: $$$

With a variety of gorgeous patterns, this one almost looks too nice to use as a diaper bag, but built in crumb drains and the fact that you can machine wash this bag means you totally can. The detachable straps allow you to shift from backpack to crossbody without the added bulk of extra straps in the way.

The bag comes with an included changing mat, but there are additional accessories — that you can find in matching fabrics — available for purchase if a coordinated set is your thing.

Pros

  • pattern options
  • washability and durability
  • storage and organization

Cons

  • price
  • small side pockets
  • must purchase stroller straps separately

Milkmaid Goods Brooklyn Backpack

Price: $$$

This vegan leather option comes with a coordinating changing pad and a matching wristlet. This simple design doesn’t have as many pockets or pouches as some others, but it’s not lacking when it comes to simple style. The large outside pockets allow for easy access and can fit a water bottle. The patterned lining is a nice surprise.

Pros

  • comes with useful add-ons like a messenger strap and wristlet
  • wipes clean
  • classic style

Cons

  • no insulated pockets
  • heavier on its own than some other packs
  • stroller straps sold separately

Best tote diaper bags

If you’re the throw-it-over-your-shoulder-and-go type, these totes will fit the bill. They allow for easy access to all the supplies you have on hand.

Happ Paige Carryall

Price: $$$

If you’ve always envied Mary Poppins’ bottomless satchel, this is the bag for you. The wide opening allows for easy access to the six interior pockets, including two bottle pockets.

Its material gives the bag a unique, quilted look – and keeps the unpacked weight under 2 pounds. There are a variety of matching accessories available for purchase. Hidden pockets make a great place to stash your phone or keys while you’re on the go.

Pros

  • lightweight
  • comes with detachable stroller strap
  • unique style

Cons

  • changing pad sold separately
  • doesn’t attach to stroller
  • pricey

The Honest Company Everything Tote

Price: $$$

Just because you have a newborn doesn’t mean you have to go pretty and pastel.

This black, vegan leather option leaves out all the chemicals for naturally stylish bag that doesn’t look like a diaper bag — except for all the pockets (seven on the outside along with two insulated pockets inside). Additionally, there is a zippered pocket that is lined to store wet items — how useful is that? Interior stroller straps can be used or stowed away, as needed.

Pros

  • includes shoulder strap and changing pad with pocket
  • stylish design
  • stain and water resistant

Cons

  • material makes it heavier
  • not sized for multiple kids
  • zipper issues for some reviewers

Best diaper bags for the essentials

Whether you want something to toss in your purse for a quick Target run or a smaller bag that you can carry during an afternoon hike, these pint-sized options still pack functional punch.

Skip Hop Pronto Signature Changing Station

Price: $

This clutch folds up with its own wipe-off changing mat and room for a few diapers, wipes, and your essentials. You can easily toss it into the stroller basket for out for a jog around the neighborhood with your baby, or you can just grab this when you’re heading for a quick errand and don’t want to lug all the things.

Heck, it’s a great size for packing up and leaving in the car for that inopportune moment when you finally get on the road for the day and realize that you’ve forgotten diapers. Or wipes. Or matching shoes.

Okay, it won’t actually help with the last one, but hey, we’ve all been there.

Pros

  • compact
  • super functional

Cons

  • need a larger bag for regular use
  • somewhat large to keep in a purse

Munchkin Designer Diaper Changer

Price: $

If you’ve ever had to try to navigate your stroller into a public restroom you’ll be grateful for a diaper clutch that allows you to skip that part of the fun.

This super-compact clutch is just right for tossing into a purse or larger diaper bag. You can easily grab it, leaving someone else to watch the stroller and all the gear, while you make quick work of a diaper change with the included mat and wipes container.

Pros

  • low price
  • size makes it easy to keep on hand

Cons

  • small changing mat
  • have to restock often

Best diaper bags for multiple kids

Whether you’re jumping right into the multiple kids ring with new twins or triplets or you are adding a second baby while your first still needs diapers, snacks, and other toddler gear, these bags have enough space to manage it all.

Skip Hop Duo Double Signature

Price: $$

Designed specifically to attach easily to a side-by-side double stroller, this tote makes the most of the available space, with 16 pockets to keep you organized. You can use the included strap to throw it over your shoulder messenger style while you’re setting up the stroller, and the zip-closed main compartment will keep everything contained. This one came up again and again from twin parents.

Pros

  • holds everything
  • sturdy material
  • designed for stroller use

Cons

  • can be heavy when packed full
  • not an easy fit on all strollers
  • no insulated pockets

Petunia Pickle Bottom Boxy Backpack

Price: $$$

The included zip-out changing pad means that everything stays close at hand when diaper changing on the go. This large, backpack-style option can also be used with the included cross-body strap or stroller straps.

The deep interior holds a ton — one of the reasons this works great for multiple kids at once. It can also work for multiple parents — one online reviewer shared that it was comfortable to wear for both her and her much taller spouse.

Shop for the Petunia Pickle Bottom Boxy Backpack online.

Pros

  • variety of patterns and materials
  • plenty of storage space
  • easily adjustable

Cons

  • no outside parent pocket for phone or keys
  • pricey
  • some fabrics don’t hold up as well, per reviewers

Best diaper bags that don’t look like diaper bags

Once upon a time your diaper bag options were limited to nursery-style cartoon prints and pastel options emblazoned with formula or diaper brand names. Now you can shop a whole range of stylish bags that nobody would guess are outfitted for all your baby needs.

Miss Fong Diaper Bag Backpack

Price: $

This faux leather convertible backpack offers functionality and style. Reviewers loved the light-colored lining and seven inside pockets that mean things don’t get lost inside. There are lots of color options to choose from and each comes with a coordinating changing pad, shoulder strap, and stroller straps. This bag looks like similar, more expensive options with a much friendlier price point.

Pros

  • color options
  • organization
  • carry options

Cons

  • not as much storage as other bags
  • need two hands to access zipper compartments
  • not as sturdy as some options, per some reviewers

Rosie Pope Highbury Hill Diaper Bag Backpack

Price: $$$

This vegan leather backpack comes with a silicone changing pad and a separate insulated bottle cooler. The top handle makes it easy to grab and the straps are adjustable. The drawstring closure on the main compartment and the light-colored lining makes it easy to see and get to your supplies.

Pros

  • great changing pad
  • easy to convert
  • wipes clean

Cons

  • not as much organization inside
  • loose stitching a concern for some reviewers
  • smaller size may not work for everyone

Best diaper bags for dad/grandma/anybody

Many families share child care duties, whether that means separate households or extended family members pitching in for day care drop-offs. If you’re looking for a bag that multiple caregivers can easily share, check out these options.

Ruvalino Large Travel Diaper Tote

Price: $

Despite the generous size, this bag is lightweight – only 2 pounds! You’ll appreciate this feature when you’re packing it up with all the supplies to send your little one off to a sleepover at grandma’s or getting ready for taking your infant on their first flight.

Did we mention that it can hang from the stroller and also has a luggage strap to allow you to easily navigate the airport? The neutral colors and variety of carry options make it easy to share. But one of the best features of this bag has to be the price — this one definitely feels like a deal.

Pros

  • price
  • easy to clean
  • includes plenty of pockets, with zippered and insulated options

Cons

  • might be larger than needed for everyday use
  • not structured enough, according to some reviewers
  • smaller items can get lost inside

Vianetic Smart 5-in-1 Diaper Backpack

Price: $$$

If you want to be sure whoever has baby can always keep in touch, check out this option, which includes a USB charger! There’s also a padded laptop sleeve if you’re on the go and want to get some work done or shop online while baby naps.

The “5-in-1” refers to included features: In addition to the bag itself, you get a pull-out organizer, detachable diaper pad (which folds out from the bag’s cover), stroller straps, and an insulated thermal pack that can hold up to three baby bottles, multiple food containers, or… a bottle of wine!

Reviewers appreciated that the material is water resistant and that the two side bottle pockets are easy to access. One mom even pointed out that this bag allowed her to pack her breast pump for weekend getaways.

Pros

  • lots of storage and pockets
  • price
  • included accessories are useful

Cons

  • the magnetic closure can be tricky, according to some reviewers
  • not fully washable
  • not as much storage as some other options

  • Overall size and weight. If the bag starts out huge and heavy, adding enough gear for a full day with your little one isn’t going to make it any easier to manage.
  • Material. Babies are messy. You want a bag that isn’t too challenging to keep clean.
  • Cost. There’s a wide range available, so you should be able to find a bag that fits your needs no matter what your budget.
  • Included accessories. Some bags include changing pads, stroller straps, and other accessories. If those aren’t included, factor in what it will cost to buy separately.
  • Closures. If the bag tips or falls are you going to be chasing bottles and toys across the parking lot? Do you need two hands to be able to get to the pacifier pouch?
  • Features. If you want carrying options or the ability to hang the bag from your stroller, make sure that those are available for your bag of choice.
  • Usage. Are you looking for a bag for your cloth-diapered newborn or for your three-under-three? Does the bag need to stand up to the outdoors? Consider your lifestyle and needs.
  • Who’s using it? Is it yours and yours alone, or are you sharing the bag with dad, grandma, or another caregiver? Is it comfortable for everyone using it?