Most parents carry their diaper bag every single day for two or three years. A backpack keeps both hands free, which matters when you are holding a baby, folding a stroller or opening a car door. Not every backpack works as well as it looks in the photo, though. These are the seven features we check before adding a bag to our Diaper Bags collection.
1. Enough pockets, in the right places
A single large compartment turns into a pile within a week. Look for separate spaces for diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, bottles and your own things. Thirteen pockets sounds like a lot, but it is a common number in well-organized bags because each item gets its own place. The Sunveno Wide-Open Diaper Backpack and the Modern Quilted Diaper Bag Backpack both have 13.
2. Insulated bottle pockets
Insulated pockets keep milk, formula and snacks at a steadier temperature during a day out. Check how many there are and whether they fit the bottles you use. Three insulated pockets is a good benchmark for a full day.
3. A wide opening
A bag that opens wide, like a doctor's bag, lets you see everything at once. You can find the pacifier with one hand instead of digging to the bottom. This is the main reason parents choose a wide-open backpack over a regular one.
4. Stroller straps or hooks
Straps or D-rings that attach the bag to the stroller handle save your back on long walks. Hang only what the stroller is designed to carry, because a heavy bag can tip a light stroller. For extra hanging space, see our stroller accessories.
5. A changing pad that travels with the bag
Public changing tables are not always clean. A padded, wipeable changing pad that lives inside the bag means you are always ready. Some bags include one, like the Luxurious Velvet Diaper Backpack. If yours does not, a separate foldable changing pad fits in most backpacks.
6. Water-resistant, easy-clean fabric
Spills will happen. Oxford cloth and coated polyester wipe clean and resist light rain. Check the care label: some quilted bags are machine washable, which makes a big difference after a leaking bottle.
7. Comfort and style you will still like in a year
Padded, adjustable shoulder straps matter more than any extra pocket. Choose a design you are happy to carry on its own as a backpack, because you will use it long after the diaper years. A neutral quilted or velvet finish goes with almost anything.
Backpack, tote or weekender?
- Backpack: best for daily use and keeping both hands free.
- Tote: easier to open on a table; the Sunveno Canvas Tote Diaper Bag converts between shoulder and hand carry.
- Weekender: for overnight trips; the Sunveno 3-in-1 Weekender Diaper Travel Tote holds 34 liters, and the Mom Travel Duffle Diaper Bag holds 48 liters and slides over a suitcase handle.
Quick checklist
- At least 10 pockets, with separate wet and dry spaces
- 2 or 3 insulated bottle pockets
- Wide main opening
- Stroller straps or D-rings
- Changing pad included or room for one
- Water-resistant, wipe-clean fabric
- Padded, adjustable straps
Frequently asked questions
What is the best diaper bag backpack for everyday use?
One with 10 or more pockets, insulated bottle pockets, a wide opening and stroller straps. A built-in or included changing pad saves you carrying a separate one.
What is the best diaper bag for travel?
For flights and road trips, a larger weekender or duffle with a luggage strap is easier than a backpack, because it rides on top of your suitcase. Keep a small pouch inside for quick changes.
How big should a diaper bag be?
For a day out, around 20 to 25 liters is enough for diapers, wipes, two bottles, a change of clothes and your own things. Choose 30 liters or more for overnight trips.
Can I use a diaper bag backpack as a regular backpack?
Yes. A neutral design with a laptop or tablet pocket works as an everyday backpack once you no longer need diapers.
Related guides
Compare backpacks, totes and travel bags in our Diaper Bags collection. Every order ships free within the contiguous United States.