Best Diaper Backpacks: The Diaper Bag Alternative (2020 Guide)
Do you ever feel like you don’t have enough hands? I do!
I can’t think of anything more frustrating than trying to get out the door with my toddler and gigantic diaper bag on my arm.
One day, after barely being able to squeeze out the door, I decided it was time for me to get a diaper backpack.
I needed something that I could wear rather than carry.
And luckily, I was able to find something stylish, functional, and large enough (but still comfortable to wear) that would carry all my baby essentials and various baby stuff.
Life has never been easier and I’m so glad I made the change. So will you!
Why You Need A Diaper Bag
A diaper bag is ultra-important for every mom because it carries virtually everything you need to be successful (and safe) with a baby on the go.
Unfortunately, your purse won’t cut it, so an additional, larger bag is needed.
You’ll need a space and place for things like wipes, diapers, a burp cloth, bottles, an extra outfit, a wet bag, and feeding items.
Plus, don’t leave out toys, a pacifier, creams and gels, a changing pad, water and snack, bibs, a nursing cover, and even hand sanitizers.
Many parents also toss in a first aid kit, and have a spot reserved for their own stuff, like a wallet, phone, and keys.
In other words: you have a lot of stuff you need to lug around!
Why You Should Consider A Diaper Backpack
A diaper bag is great to have, but some moms actually think that a backpack diaper bag is even better.
Why?
Above all, a backpack diaper bag helps balance your body out. Think about it.
You have a thirty pound child on one side (or a big and bulky infant seat carrier), and a humongous, equally heavy bag on your fragile wrist on your other side.
You probably look like quite the circus performer maneuvering around with both!
A backpack diaper bag will help you take the load off your side and will help improve your balance. It also helps decrease neck or shoulder problems, tension on your muscles, and it leaves your joints and tendons pain-free.
How to Choose the Best Diaper Bag
Still prefer a diaper bag instead of a diaper backpack? No worries! Then be sure to check out our guide to choosing the best diaper bag!
Really, it's a great way to remain safe because I know a lot of moms who have toppled over while making their exit, who have strained their backs and arms with the bag, and who have also lost their balance when going up and down steps with it in hand along with their child.
Most diaper packs tend to be much smaller than a diaper bag.
I don’t know about you, but I really don’t need all of that room in that bag. A backpack gives me plenty of space and it has just as many compartments as my diaper bag.
And the main selling point for me is that I also have one whole arm and hand free!
It doesn’t sound very exciting, but it makes a world of difference. I no longer struggle to carry in a bag or two from the grocery store with my baby and bag in tow.
I don’t have to make multiple trips, and I always have a hand ready to unlock my door and unload my stuff.
6 Things To Look For In A Backpack Diaper Bag
If you’re considering making the switch from diaper bag to backpack diaper bag, here are some key characteristics to consider:
#1. It's strong. And by strong, I mean it can handle everything from diapers, to a change of clothes, to wipes, and even a few bottles (I’ve even tossed a canister for formula in mine).
You don’t want something that will stretch and sag over time due to weight restrictions. Look for a good, strong bag so it works effectively for you.
#2. Adjustable straps. Sometimes you will be wearing your backpack with a winter coat, other times with nothing.
You want to make sure it fits you comfortably and snug so you don’t have to worry about pushing it back into place, and also has stroller straps so you can hang it over your stroller if need be.
#3. It's roomy. Obviously you don’t want to look like a nomad when wearing one, but you do want something large enough to carry all of your essentials.
A great rule of thumb?
Pick something that reminds you of the backpack you used to carry in elementary school. That was big enough to carry your lunch bag, books, and binders, so it’s sure to be big enough to carry your baby items.
#4. It has compartments. One thing I do love about a diaper bag is that it is filled with compartments. It allowed me to stick my hand in the bag and pull out whatever I needed without looking because I had my organizational system on lock down.
Packs also come with compartments, so make sure you get enough and set up a similar system. Also, it’s always an added bonus when it has a bottle holder compartment, so you don’t need to bring any kind of additional small bags to store your bottles in.
#5. It wipes clean. Much like a diaper bag, you want to make sure your pack is able to be cleaned with ease. Without fail, you will always get some kind of fluid on it, whether it is bodily or a bottle that leaks. Always go for something easy to clean.
#6. It's affordable. You don’t have to pay an arm and a leg for a great diaper bag backpack. Shop around to not only get something that you love, but is a bargain buy!
Why Can't I Just Use A Regular Backpack?
Technically, you could, but it would make more sense to invest in a diaper pack.
These bags are loaded with pockets and and a main compartment, as well as insulated layers, and they tend to be a bit larger and wider as well.
Best Diaper Backpacks
The Skip Hop Forma (click here to check the price on Amazon) is my go-to diaper backpack, and I love this pack for so many reasons.
First, I love that it is gender neutral, so if you want to save it to use for multiple children down the line, you’re all set.
Its design is simple yet sleek, so you will look oh-so-stylish sporting it, and it will never go out of style. It will also never clash with anything you are wearing (if that matters to you!)
As far as price, I think it’s totally priced moderately, and you definitely get what you pay for in terms of high-quality.
This pack is easy to clean because it is made out of Polyester, making it a durable diaper pack over time.
It also has adequate storage so you can toss in clothing, snacks, wipes, you name it. I personally like its front storage section because you keep put your own belongings in it as well, so you aren’t’ rooting around for your keys or cell phone.
The pack even has a main compartment to hold a tablet or laptop, as well as a soft and portable changing pad.
All pockets are elasticized, so they will stretch to fit items of various sizes. One of the storage compartment cubes is also insulated, so you can toss in your bottles or juice cups and go!
This is a great diaper bag backpack because it will grow with your baby, toddler, or even twins, allowing you to have it from birth to toddler years.
I know a few moms who have really gotten their money’s worth out of this bag because they eventually sent it with their child to pre-school to use as a backpack.
Overall, I highly recommend this pack!
A totally cute and trendy pack, the Ju-Ju-Be Right Pack is priced on the higher end for a pack (click here to check the price on Amazon), but is still less expensive than a designer diaper bag backpack, which on average cost $200-$300 or more depending on the brand.
Like all the other bags, you will be hands free, and in style! The bag is designed with your utmost comfort in mind because it has ergonomically curved and padded shoulder straps.
It's also a pretty lightweight diaper backpack but large enough to become your go to bag. Toss in your baby stuff, and your personal stuff.
It is treated with Teflon on the outside, making is a breeze to clean. And, on the inside, I love how it has an antimicrobial protected lining, so if stuff gets wet or sticky, all items and the bag itself is protected and simple to mop up.
The pack has four main pockets, and five smaller zippered pockets. There is even one for mom, so fill it with your essentials.
This Ju-Ju-Be pack comes with a memory foam changing mat (how chic), so you don’t have to worry about changing your baby or toddler in your car or other public venues.
And, unlike some of the other diaper bag backpacks, the brand offers a 90 day warranty, protecting the bag in case there are any manufacturing defects.
It really is an awesome backpack to use as a diaper bag that many moms remark its design is so comfortable, they don’t even feel like they are wearing anything!
The Bag Nation Diaper Pack (click here to check the price on Amazon) is another popular diaper backpack around a lot of the moms I know.
It too has a simple and streamlined design, and is a basic black color.
It is easy to clean and will ensure that you can go hands free whenever you need to!
I love it because you can strap it onto your stroller when and if your back needs a break. It is the perfect size to carry anything you need, but it’s not overly large or bulky.
Like the other bags, it is made out of polyester, so you don’t have to worry about cleaning it. It also has non-fray stitching, which is important, because it means the bag is strong, durable, and well-constructed.
Its zippers are also heavy duty, so this is a bag moms and dads can carry for many years.
This diaper bag backpack has 12 pockets, so you are sure to have a space for everything, including your own essential items. Moms won’t need to every carry an additional purse.
Also, like the other bags, it comes with a changing pad and a sundry bag, which is nice to toss soiled clothing in if your baby or toddler has an accident.
Plus, if for any reason you are not happy with your purchase, the company stands behind their product and will give you a 100% satisfaction guarantee!
#4. Hap Tim Diaper Bag Backpack
Hap Tim Diaper Bag Backpack (click here to check the price on Amazon) is ideal for everyone in the family to use.
That’s right, both mom and dad (and even grandparents) can carry this bag around due to its unisex design, great neutral color, and simple design.
It’s composed of a soft fabric that is also very attractive, allowing for function and fashion. It is waterproof so you can wear it outdoors in a variety of weather without worrying about its demise, and it wipes clean when there are baby related spills involved.
The bag has sleek, faux leather adornments, and perfectly padded arm straps for added comfort (which can also be adjusted to accommodate a variety of body types).
A diaper changing pad comes with the bag and fits comfortably inside for on the go changing. The bag is the perfect size to carry all of a baby’s necessities, but yours as well, eliminating the need for moms to tote around a purse.
A large front pocket allows for easy access to wipes, pacifiers, and toys, while a gathered side pocket is perfect for bottles and other drinks.
Inside, there is a main compartment as well as multiple, spacious compartments, allowing you to have plenty of diapers, burp cloths, and even a change of clothes to provide you with all the comforts of your nursery when you’re not at home.
#5. Mancro Diaper Bag
Mancro Diaper Bag (click here to check the price on Amazon) takes diaper bags to a whole new level.
This diaper bag backpack resembles a book bag, so dads won’t feel embarrassed when toting around their baby’s accessories. It has a basic, black color and ultra-simple but highly sleek and functional design.
There are a number of pockets and a main compartment, allowing for ample storage of items of all sizes. The bag can be carried by a handle or slung over your shoulder by using its padded, adjustable strap feature.
It also comes with a removable diaper pad to keep your baby safe and comfortable for changes on the go. Parents can toss in their keys and other items and can leave their additional bags at home.
Zippered, interior pockets can effectively hold money and other valuables for parents, but also contain wet or soiled items, keeping them separate from other objects.
Its insulated bottle pocket holds up to two baby bottles and keeps them at the appropriate temperature as needed.
The bag is the perfect size for toting around everything you need, but won’t take up too much space in the car or on the stroller, and is ultra-comfortable to wear.
#6. HapTim
Hap Tim’s diaper bag (click here to check the price on Amazon) is multifunctional and very stylish.
Its uni-sex design and color make it the ideal baby bag for your whole family to use. Composed of nylon, the bag is durable and easy to clean.
It has non-fraying stitching, strong zippers, and a special coating that will make the bag last your baby’s entire diaper and toddler career!
Designed with a backpack style, it’s easy to wear and is comfortable; thanks to its padded and adjustable straps. When you wear a backpack, you can go hands free and remain much more comfortable pushing your stroller, carrying your baby, or even feeding them.
With 13 spacious pockets, you have endless organization options, allowing you to access and stow away supplies with ease. It even has insulated drink pockets which will keep your baby’s drinks and baby food at the right temperature for hours (so no need to bring a cooler along).
A changing mat comes with the bag and fits perfectly in a zippered side pocket for easy access.
Whether you wear it or attach it to your stroller hook, you can be sure to have all your baby’s items in one, organized place.
#7. Sleeping Lamb
Sleeping Lamb’s baby bag (click here to check the price on Amazon) is just what you need to stay organized, active, and go totally hands free.
The bag is soft, yet thick, and it’s durable. Its fabric is water resistant, so your items inside will remain dry, and the bag itself will wipe completely clean as needed.
This diaper bag backpack comes with a changing pad for diapering safely on the go, and a pair of stroller straps when you need to give your back or arms a rest!
If you're in need of large space (and a lot of it), this bag is great because it has a whopping 16 pockets, 4 insulated bottle holders (which is ideal for multiple children), and even a special pocket to put wet items!
Parents also love how there is a specific pocket included for a pacifier and a lap top. Its cushioned shoulder straps and breathable mesh panel makes the bag easy to wear, especially for hours on end if vacationing or enjoying a family outing outdoors.
Exterior pockets allow for easy access to essential items like keys, phones, wipes, and diapers.
The Sleeping Lamb is the perfect bag for moms who need to have it all when leaving home!
Wrapping Up
So, are you ready to make the switch from diaper bag to diaper back backpack?
Doing so changed my life, and saved my poor arms!
A backpack diaper bag just makes sense, and I love that dads get into wearing them too.
A great investment, just be sure to register for one if you are expecting, or shop for one and keeping my key characteristics and recommendations in mind.
