The 10 best diaper bags: ultimate buying guide 2020

If you’re in a hurry, these are our best picks:

✅ Best diaper bag overall
✅ Best diaper bag for dads
✅ Best diaper bag for flying
✅ Best diaper bag with USB port

Babies come with a lot of baggage and I’m not talking about the metaphorical here.

My mom friends tell me that they carry these in their diaper bag:

• at least 4 diapers
• wipes
• hand sanitizer
• baby cream
• sunscreen & sunhat
• 2 bottles
• change(s) of clothing
• change mat
• books/toys
• plastic bags

Sounds like a lot, right? Also, this list grows with your baby…

Indulge me if you will, imagine being stuck in a public toilet with a screaming infant.

How great would it be if you didn’t have to rummage through your loaded holdall? To lay her down on a comfortable mat and protect her from pesky germs.

You see, a regular backpack just doesn’t do the trick. 

Instead, you’ll need a sturdy diaper bag with strategically placed pockets.

‘But which one? It’s only a bag, right? Wrong!

That’s what I thought, and boy did I regret it. I ended up hating the bag I bought.

Finding the perfect one requires lots of tiresome scrolling – and who has the time or patience for that when expecting a baby or trying to keep the one you have alive!

Here’s the thing…..

I’d like to help you avoid my mistake. I spent my life rummaging through all the dried-up packets of wipes, pads, nappies, and the sticky stuff at the bottom. Then I lost my changing mat.

So, to help you, I am about to reveal the best diaper bags for you to buy. 

I will show you how you don’t need to spend a lot of money to buy a diaper bag that suits your lifestyle.

Also, I’m sharing my must-have features to help you make up your mind.

So, the next time you’re stuck in a sticky situation, you can change your crying baby in a jiffy without breaking a sweat. You’ve got this.

This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using this link. Please see my disclosure page for more details.

Roundup: 10 best diaper bags

1: Bag Nation diaper bag backpack with stroller straps,
changing pad & sundry bag

Bumps:

Other features

• Size: 17 x 14 x 7.5 inches.
• Insulated pocket to keep bottles warm /cold, although you can definitely fit more bottles in the rest of the bag.
• The bag comes with a changing mat.
• Stroller friendly: includes sturdy stroller straps for easy attachment.
• Budget: not too dear, but worth it.
• Washability: wash on delicate.
• Lifetime warranty
• Style: black goes with everything, and it doesn’t look like a backpack.
• DAF: (Dad Appeal Factor): Yes, you can’t go wrong with a black backpack.

2: TETHYS diaper bag backpack [multifunction waterproof travel back pack] 

Bumps:

Other features

3. Diaper bag travel backpack – Pipibear large baby nappy bag organizer waterproof

Bumps:

Other features

4: Designer diaper bag, by Maman with matching changing pad

Bumps:

Other features

• There are 2 side pockets for bottles.
• Stroller-friendly: yes, it has sturdy buckles for easy attachment to any stroller.
• Yes, it comes with a changing mat (a basic one, unlike the one that Maman sells separately).
• Washability: exterior is water-resistant and made of wipe-clean fabric
• bottom of the bag is made easy to clean of leather.
• Style: this is a very stylish designer diaper bag.
• Style: this bag comes in different colors: black, blue, green, or caramel beige.
• The bag doesn’t look like a diaper bag, so great for working mums.
• DAF: (Dad Appeal Factor): dad might prefer the next entry instead.

5: Maman diaper bag backpack with stroller straps

Bumps:

Other features

• Size: 16.9 x 12.9 x 3.5 inches.
• 2 side insulated pockets to keep your bottles warm/cold.
• Lightweight bag-great for traveling.
• Stroller friendly: it has strong and sturdy stroller buckles to attach to any stroller
• Washability: the exterior is water-resistant and wipe clean.
• The bottom of the bag is made of easy to clean leather.
• Style: very stylish-doesn’t even look like a diaper bag
• It comes in 5 different colors: Blue (as featured), green, two grey tones and black.
• DAF: as this bag comes in different colors, you can pick the one your partner is most happy with.
• The bag can be monogrammed.

6. SoHo Collection, Grand Central Station 7 pieces diaper bag set

Bumps:

Other features

• Size: 18.4 x 13.3 x 2.2 inches.
• You can carry the bag in three ways:
• 1. As a hand-carried tote.
• 2. As a shoulder bag.
• 3. Hung on your stroller while on the go.
• Washability: machine washable (on delicate and hung out to dry).
• The outside material is waterproof.
• It’s wipe clean-just use a baby wipe.
• Style: it is certainly a stylish bag, and it comes in 2 different prints.
• It doesn’t look too much like a diaper bag, and purse comes in handy.
• DAF: while certainly a very stylish bag, dads might be put off by the print.

7. Filberry backpack diaper bag set – Large & Small Backpacks zip together

Bumps:

Other features

• Size: large backpack 17″(h) x 13″(w) x 10″(d) inches.
• Size: small backpack: 13″(h) x 9.5″(w) x 4″(d) inches.
• This bag is 3 sizes in one:
• – one big backpack
• – one smaller backpack
• – zipped together they form an even bigger backpack (handy if you have twins or toddlers)
• Includes an insulated bottle pocket for 2 bottles.
• It comes with a changing pad.
• Stroller friendly; it has strong and sturdy stroller straps for a secure attachment.
• Style: stylish backpack in a neutral grey color, that doesn’t look like a diaper bag-great for other uses.
• DAF: I don’t think this bag will give him much to complain about

8. Diaper Bag for girls and boys – large capacity baby bag by 7Senses

Bumps:

Other features

• Size: 17 x 13 x 7 inches.
• 1 secure zipper closure main compartment.
• 2 side external pockets – perfect for bottles or toys.
• Comes with a changing pad.
• Bag can be worn over the shoulder by the shoulder straps, but also by the 2 handles
• Stroller friendly: yes, comes with matching stroller straps.
• Washability: bag and changing pad can be put in the washing machine (but not in the dryer).
• It’s easy to wipe clean.
• Style: stylish bag, that doesn’t scream diaper bag! It comes in navy & grey.
• DAF: nice neutral looking bag, though he might prefer a bag pack

9.  Skip Hop Diaper Bag backpack forma, multi-function baby travel bag

Bumps:

Other features

• Size: 16″x8″x14″ .
• Two insulated side pockets for bottles.
• Comes with a changing pad measuring 7.75″in x 12″in (washable)
• Shoulder straps on the Skip Hop Forma Diaper Bag Backpack extend from 15.50” – 30.00”.
• Stroller friendly: yes, it comes with stroller straps.
• Washability: the material is water-resistant, and can be machine washed on delicate.
• Style: more of a practical than a stylish look, but it makes a great neutral addition to any outfit you’ll be wearing. It comes in 3 versions: black, grey and black floral.
• DAF: you can’t go wrong with a black backpack-well, not in my house anyway.

10. Diaper Backpack by Bliss Bag for baby girls, boys, twins, moms & dads

Bumps:

Other features

• Size: 11.5 x 6.7 x 16.2 inches.
• 2 long side pockets.
• It comes with a comfy change mat.
• Stroller friendly: comes with stroller straps.
• Budget: good quality for a mid-price bag.
• Washability: It’s not recommended to put the bag into the washing machine, wipe clean only.
• The outer material is water-resistant and durable.
• Style: a great, neutral stylish bag that comes in black also.
• DAF: this should appeal to dads. Did I mention it comes in black?

✅ Best diaper bag for dads

My husband never wanted to use my diaper bag, because God forbid, someone might find it too feminine for him (it had light blue stripes.) Instead, he took an everyday shopping bag, but of course, never packed enough nappies.

I can’t count how many times he came home early from an outing with a wailing and hungry baby. Guess who forgot to pack two bottles instead of just one?

Iniuniu large unisex multifunction travel diaper bag backpack

Bumps:

Our winner is a great lightweight option. If you like being organized, this is the bag for you with plenty of pockets & a safe pocket for all your valuables. Handy for traveling on a plane too, as it includes a laptop pocket.

Other Features

• Size: 11.8L x 7.8W x 16.5H inches.
• Secure backside pocket for your valuables.
• 2 Dual zipper main compartments
• 10 elasticized interior pockets (incl. a padded laptop pocket);
• 2 elastic side pockets (will keep your bottles secure).
• Stroller friendly: includes stroller straps.
• Washability: wipe clean.
• Style: a stylish bag that comes in 3 grey tones.

✅ Best diaper bag for flying

We went on a flight once, made memorable because of the epic changing episode in the small toilet cubicle of the plane. Trust my baby to have a mini-explosion in her nappy, just when I couldn’t find the wipes in my messy bag. Upon leaving the toilet, ten pairs of eyes bored into me. Turned out, she hadn’t just disturbed me with her screeching.

So let me give you some advice. ALWAYS make sure you change your baby before going onto the plane, changing baby in an airport toilet without being organized is a nightmare.

Ruvalino diaper bag backpack

Bumps:

Other features

• Size: 11.8 x 7.8 x 16.5 inches.
• 1 x Zipper secured main pocket.
• backside pocket
• 2 x Insulated bottle pocket (to keep your bottles warm or cold)
• 2 x Elasticized side pocket (for baby tissues or bottle).
• 10 x Interior compartments (includes a padded laptop pocket).
• The bag comes with a changing mat.
• Budget-friendly.
• Style: smart looking backpack which comes in 6 colors, including a leaf print version
• DAF: (Dad Appeal Factor): Yes, this bag doesn’t even look like a diaper bag.

✅ Best diaper bag with USB port

What I would have given to have one of these when I had my baby. One time really springs to mind.

You see, I had organized for an important client to call me during nap time. As the sun had just come out, I took my daughter and my diaper bag to the park. If only I had remembered to charge my phone the night before.

Needless to say, the phone call was a lot shorter than I would have liked.

HLMBB diaper bag backpack

Bumps:

Other features

• Size:10.6 x7.0 x 16.5 inches.
• 2 waterproof compartments for wet/soiled items or diapers.
• 1 x Zipper secured main pocket
• 1 x Diaper organizer pockets
• 2 x Insulated bottle pocket (to keep your bottles at the right temperature)
• 2 x Elasticized side pockets
• Secure pocket for your valuables
• Stroller friendly: yes, comes with stroller straps
• Washability: wipe clean
• Waterproof material
• DAF: (Dad Appeal Factor): Yes, you can’t go wrong with a black backpack.

What to consider when you buy a diaper bag

As you can see from our line up of the 10 best diaper bags, it’s hard to find the perfect bag, as diaper bags come in so many different styles and sizes. Thanks to my diaper bag-journey I can tell you what to look out for when searching for the perfect diaper bag for your lifestyle

What’s your budget?
It’s easy to get carried away looking at all the lovely designer options out there, but if you don’t have a large budget- find out what your maximum price is and stick to it. There are some great, durable bags out there with a small price tag.

What is the purpose of your bag:
Do you need it for:
– daily use-trips to the park, playdates, etc
– flights (check to see if it fits overhead lockers)
– for work (make sure your bag fits your laptop and the bag is waterproof for protection)

Who will be using it?
If you and your partner will be using it, you will need to pick a style that suits both of you. Let him check out our 5 best diaper bags for dads.

How will you carry it?
Would you prefer a handsfree backpack, or would a shoulder bag, or even a crossbody bag suit you better?

Is your bag secure?
How does the bag close? Also, dual zips mean that opening the bag with one hand is possible-making it easier to get to stuff when you’re holding a screaming baby.

How big does your bag need to be?
Always check the size; if you have a toddler in tow or twins, you will need a bigger bag.

Do you use a stroller much?
Check if the bag comes with secure stroller straps; some bags only come with stroller hooks, and they can be awkward

How easy is it to clean the bag?
Take this into consideration! Trust me, a nappy bag can get dirty very quickly, especially when you throw a toddler who likes rice cakes in the mix. Some bags are wipe-clean only, others can be washed in the machine. Check this before buying!

Can the bag handle rain?
Some bags are waterproof, other merely water-resistant. This makes a huge difference when you’re caught in really bad weather. Trust me, when your toddler drags you out to the park nearly every day, this is something you need to consider!

My must-have features in a diaper bag

Let me share with you my personal checklist.
The best bag has/is:

• a secure (ideal zippered) pocket for valuables
• a comfy changing pad
• dual zips for opening with one hand
• lightweight: the bag itself shouldn’t feel too heavy before you load it up
• able to stand up on its own
• washable in the machine
• made from waterproof material
• a laptop pocket
• a separate pocket for wet items (saves you on bringing plastic bags)
• at least 2 insulated bottle pockets
• back support & comfortable straps that don’t dig into your shoulders

FAQ: most asked questions about diaper bags

• Can diaper bags be washed?
  That all depends on the bag. Some are machine wash, handwash or just wipe clean. Please check the label before you put it in the machine!
  
• What is a good bag to bring to Disney World or Disney on Ice?
  Our best diaper backpack for dads would be the one I would recommend, as it has a pocket for valuables, is handy for traveling, and has 2 insulated pockets for bottles.
  
• Diaper backpack vs a normal backpack: what is the difference?
  While you could be forgiven for thinking they are nearly the same, a normal backpack is usually much harder to clean, doesn’t have the same amount of pockets, no waterproof internal lining, no insulated pockets for bottles, and doesn’t come with a changing mat.
  
• Can I have my bag monogrammed?
  Not every bag can be monogrammed, but this Maman bag can.
  
• What is the best bag for twins or a toddler as well as a baby?
  We would recommend our number 7 in our round-up of best diaper bags
  
  6. What are diaper bag essentials for a small baby?
• At least 1 diaper for every hour you’re planning to be away, and a few extra
• wipes
• hand sanitizer
• baby cream for nappy rash
• sunscreen & sunhat
• bottle(s) of formula if you’re not breastfeeding
• change(s) of clothing
• change mat
• books/toys
• plastic bags for soiled nappies and soiled clothing
  7. What should I carry in my diaper bag when bringing out a baby and his toddler brother?
  All of the above, plus diapers in a larger size, a change of clothing for your toddler, and snacks.

Final words

I hope you found the perfect bag for your lifestyle. If not, why not check out our best diaper bags for flying, or our best-reviewed diaper bags for dads.