When it comes to diaper bags, we know you need nothing but the best. Maybe even more than your actual handbag, it’s something you use every single day. A diaper bag needs to be durable, it needs to have enough space to carry everything and a backup, plus it doesn’t hurt if it is stylish and trendy like the Itzy Ritzy Backpack Diaper Bag
If you are expecting your first child or looking to replace your old, worn-out bag, you probably want to know what the best diaper bags are this year.
Diaper bags: what to look for
- Overall size and weight. If the bag starts 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. It’s best to choose a bag that isn’t too difficult to keep clean.
- Cost. There’s a wide range of bags available, so whatever your budget, you’ll be able to find one that suits your needs.
- Included accessories. Some bags come with changing pads, stroller straps, and other accessories. Calculate what it will cost to buy them separately if those aren’t included.
- Closures. Are you going to chase bottles and toys across the parking lot if the bag tips or falls? Is it necessary to use two hands to access the pacifier pouch?
- Features. If you want carrying options or to hang the bag from your stroller, make sure the bag you choose has those options.
- Usage. Are you looking for a bag for your cloth-diaper newborn or your three-under-three? Does the bag need to stand up to the outdoors? Consider your lifestyle and needs.
- Who’s using it? Are you the sole owner of the bag, or do you share it with your father, grandma, or someone else? Is it comfortable for everyone to use it?
Best tote diaper bags
If you’re the throw-it-over-your-shoulder-and-go type, these totes will suit your needs. You can easily access all the supplies you have on hand with them.
Happ Paige Carryall
If you’ve ever envied Mary Poppins’ bottomless satchel, you’ll love this bag. Six interior pockets, including two bottle pockets, can be easily accessed from the wide opening.
The material in the bag gives it a quilted look, and it weighs less than two pounds when unpacked. It is available with a variety of matching accessories. If you’re on the go, hidden pockets are the perfect place to stash your phone or keys.
Pros
- Lightweight
- comes with a detachable stroller strap
- Unique style
Cons
- Changing pad sold separately
- doesn’t attach to the stroller
- pricey
The Honest Company Everything Tote
It doesn’t mean you need to go pretty and pastel just because you have a newborn.
This black, vegan leather option leaves out all the chemicals for a 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 lined to store wet items — how useful is that? Interior stroller straps can be used or stowed away as needed.
Pros
- Includes a shoulder strap and changing pad with pocket
- stylish design
- stain and water-resistant
Cons
- The material makes it heavier
- Not sized for multiple kids
- zipper issues for some reviewers
Best diaper bags for the essentials
Whether you need a bag that can fit in your purse for a quick Target run or a smaller bag that you can carry during an afternoon hike, these small bags are still functional.
Skip Hop Pronto Signature Changing Station
This clutch folds up with its wipe-off changing mat and room for a few diapers, wipes, and your essentials. You can easily put it in the stroller basket for a stroll around the neighborhood with your baby, or grab it for a quick errand and don’t want to lug all the things with you.
It’s a great size for packing up and leaving in the car for the inopportune moment when you realize you’ve forgotten diapers once you finally get on the road for the day. And wipes, too. And matching shoes, too.
Okay, it won’t 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
It’s not fun to maneuver a stroller into a public restroom, so you’ll appreciate a diaper clutch that allows you to skip that step.
You can easily tuck this super-compact clutch into a purse or larger diaper bag. With the included mat and wipes container, you can make quick work of changing diapers, leaving someone else to handle the stroller and all the gear.
Pros
- Low price
- and small size make it easy to keep on hand
Cons
- Small changing mat
- have to restock often
