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15 Best Diaper Bags for New Parents

A practical guide to choosing the best diaper bag for your family.
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By Lynsey Eidell, Contributing Writer
Updated January 4, 2024
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You’ve nabbed the car seat, stroller and carrier—basically all the gear you’ll need for life on the go with baby. But there’s one more thing you won’t want to leave the house without: a diaper bag. The best diaper bags hold all the stuff baby (and Mom or Dad) will need while out and about: diapers, wipes, spare clothes, bottles, snacks and more. Phew! Given the amount of stuff you’ll need to transport your little one from A to B, it’s worth investing in a lightweight diaper bag with designated compartments to keep everything organized.

Aside from practical features, it’s important to pick a bag that suits your personal style and aesthetic. After all, you’ll carry it with you pretty much everywhere for the foreseeable future. (I still reach for mine at times—and my kids are out of diapers!) The good news? Diaper bags come in all shapes and sizes, from roomy totes to sleek messenger bags and sporty backpacks. Plus, with three kids of my own—including two who were born 11 months apart—I have plenty of experience and expertise on what makes a quality diaper bag. Check out our top tips on what to look for in a diaper bag and browse a few editor-approved options below.

How We Chose the Best Diaper Bags

Diaper bags come in all shapes, sizes, styles and materials—something I knew from my own experience with having three boys under 3. The options can be overwhelming, so how did we narrow down the many diaper bags on the market and decide which ones to include in this roundup?

  • We browsed options from an array of leading baby brands and trusted online retailers, considering factors such as the diaper bag’s size, number of pockets, materials (with an emphasis on those that are easy to clean), price, and features (such as changing pads, bottle compartments, stroller hooks and more)—all to find you a high-quality product that gets you the most bang for your buck.

  • To get a better idea of how these diaper bags worked for real families, we read user reviews and didn’t consider any with less than an average four-star rating.

  • Since many of us are parents ourselves, we relied on firsthand experience with diaper bags we’ve used personally. Thoughts from The Bump editors on which diaper bags have served us best with our own children—and the features that made them extra helpful—are included below.

Editorial integrity is at the heart of everything we publish. Read about how The Bump develops and reviews all articles, including product reviews.

Best Diaper Bags for Every Need

Overall best diaper bag

Dagne Dover Indi Diaper Backpack
Image: Dagne Dover
What We Love
  • Laptop sleeve
  • Changing mat included
  • Easy-to-clean material
Things To Consider
  • High price point

Sling Dagne Dover’s beloved Indi backpack diaper bag over your shoulder for easy on-the-go organization. This lightweight diaper bag is made from a stretchy (and easy-to-clean) neoprene material, so you can stuff it to the brim. Need even more space? Simply unclip the side buckles for a little extra room. Inside the bag, there’s a roomy interior compartment with an insulated bottle holder, laptop sleeve and mesh pockets to hold diapers, snacks, clothes and more. Not a fan of black? Not to worry, this diaper bag comes in six stunning colors and three different sizes. Oh, and did we forget to mention that this diaper bag comes complete with a changing mat, stroller clips and a travel sleeve? Trust us, this is one of the best diaper bags we’ve seen.

Dimensions: 12.3" (L) x 7" (W) x 13.8" (H) | Weight: 4 lbs. | Materials: Neoprene

“I’m a big fan of diaper backpacks when you’re really on the move, as they keep your hands free. The Dagne Dover backpack looks chic, but man can it hold a ton of stuff. Pro tip: When you really need to pack it full, release the side snaps to free up the corners of the bag. With the streamlined design and multiple colorways, it’s also a great gender-neutral diaper bag—both my husband and I were happy to wear it,” - Ashlee Neuman, mom of two and content director at The Bump

Buy Now

Best travel diaper bag

7AM Soho Carryall Diaper Bag
Image: Amazon
Buying Options
Amazon|$85
What We Love
  • Machine washable
  • Convertible style
  • Five stretchy inside pockets
Things To Consider
  • Could tip an empty stroller
  • Changing pad is small

For a diaper bag that can keep up with your travels — or just life on the go — look no further than the 7AM Soho Carryall diaper bag. It has room for everything you need for you and baby (and then some), and keeps everything tidy and easy to locate thanks to five roomy interior pockets. The storage doesn’t stop there, though: This travel diaper bag also has a zippered wallet compartment to keep your essentials easy to find and secure, a key leash (no more hunting and digging for keys at the bottom of the bag—praise!) and three additional pockets on the exterior. Not only can this diaper bag hold all of your stuff, but the 7AM Soho oversized handles and crossbody strap make it easy to transport and carry around. Whether you’re traveling or not, this is a diaper bag you’ll be reaching for again and again.

Dimensions: 18.5" (L) x 7.5" (W) x 11" (H) | Weight: N/A | Materials: Polyester

“7AM Enfant’s Soho Carryall is the ideal bag for trips with a baby or toddler—whether it’s overnight to Grandma’s house, a weekend away or your very first trip from the hospital. (Bonus: Its sporty-yet-elegant style means it doubles as an adult bag too!) It features five expandable, spacious inside pockets for diapers, socks, teethers and everything else baby needs; two exterior side pockets for bottles and a front pocket for your phone (or even more diapers). Inside, it also has a zippered wallet pocket for those small, easy-to-lose items, as well as an attachment for your keys. But by far the best feature for us? How lightweight it is—no bulky hardware. That makes it so much easier to carry through airports, train stations and to your hotel room—while balancing baby on the other shoulder, of course. Just pick it up and go!” – Natalie Gontcharova, mom of one and senior editor of lifecycle at The Bump

Buy Now

Best lightweight diaper bag

Skip Hop Forma Backpack Diaper Bag
Image: Amazon
What We Love
  • Easy-access cell phone pocket
  • Padded shoulder straps
  • Comes in five colors
Things To Consider
  • Changing pad is narrow

A diaper bag backpack allows you to keep your hands free (the ultimate parenting win), and the Skip Hop Forma Backpack Diaper Bag has the added benefit of being super lightweight, making it extremely comfortable to carry. But it’s also easy to pack, thanks to an extra-wide, dual zip opening and included packing cubes to help keep all of your little one’s essentials organized. It also features an insulated cube and two insulated bottle pockets to keep your baby’s snacks and bottles at the perfect temperature, and a padded changing mat to help your child stay comfy during diaper changes on the go. Happy baby, happy parents!

Dimensions: 16" (L) x 8" (W) x 14" (H) | Weight: 1.4 lbs | Materials: Polyester

“We used a Skip Hop bag throughout my daughter's diaper years, and it was a lifesaver. Durable, easy to organize and sized right for both me and my wife—which is a blessing when one partner is notably taller than the other!” – Daniel Carroll, dad of one and associate director of e-commerce content at The Bump

Buy Now

Best diaper bag for twins

TWELVElittle Companion Carry Love Quilted Diaper Bag
Image: Nordstrom
Buying Options
Nordstrom|$119
What We Love
  • Lightweight
  • Two bottle pockets
  • Changing pad and stroller clips included
Things To Consider
  • Pricey

If you’re a parent to twins, comfort is key—but space is a close second. And TWELVElittle’s designer diaper bags are practical, spacious and stylish. It’s lightweight, but the roomy interior makes it big enough to carry around everyday essentials for two babies. It has 10 pockets in total, including two exterior bottle pockets. The soft, padded material is flexible and water-resistant—when it’s time to clean the grime off, simply toss the bag in the washing machine. Oh, and this diaper bag comes complete with a changing mat and stroller straps.

Dimensions: 13.8" (L) x 4.8" (W) x 13.3" (H) | Weight: 2 lbs. | Materials: Polyester, nylon

Buy Now

Best tote diaper bag

Caraa Baby Tote
Image: Caraa
What We Love
  • Vegan
  • Three different carry modes
  • Machine washable and waterproof
Things To Consider
  • Pricey
  • Changing pad sold separately

Who knew a diaper bag could look this chic? This vegan friendly tote from Caraa boasts a sleek coated cotton exterior for a look that’s as chic as it is environmentally-friendly. But this isn’t a diaper bag that just looks good; it doesn't skimp on practical features either. It has bountiful pockets (inside and out), a removable diaper caddy and a waterproof interior and exterior. Plus, this versatile option can also be carried three different ways: By the grab handles, as a crossbody tote, or attached to a stroller with the included clips.

Dimensions: 15" (L) x 6.5" (W) x 12.5" (H) | Weight: 3.5 lbs | Materials: Waterproof coated cotton

Buy Now

Best small diaper bag

Petunia Pickle Bottom Criss-Cross Sling
Image: Petunia Pickle Bottom
What We Love
  • Wipe-clean material
  • Insulated front pocket
  • Minimalist design
Things To Consider
  • No changing pad

Like to travel light? Check out this minimalist diaper bag by Petunia Pickle Bottom. The crossbody bag may be small, but it has space for all baby’s essentials. Inside, you’ll find a spacious compartment with a water-resistant lining. At the front, there’s an insulated zip-pocket for snacks or small bottles. And a slip pocket at the back is the perfect place to store your phone, cards and keys.

Dimensions: 7.9" (L) x 3.9" (W) x 11" (H) | Weight: 13 oz. | Materials: Leatherette, polyurethane

Buy Now

Best large diaper bag

JuJuBe B.F.F.
Image: JuJuBe
What We Love
  • Machine-washable
  • Convertible style
  • Two insulated bottle pockets
  • Changing pad included
Things To Consider
  • On the heavier side
  • Pricey

This stylish JuJuBe B.F.F. diaper bag comes in 12 super-cute machine-washable styles (from stripes to polka dots, so there’s something for every aesthetic. But as cute as this option is, it’s the functionality that makes it one of the best diaper bags out there. It has two exterior Thinsulate-lined bottle holders, plus a front “mommy” pocket with a key fob and a microfiber glasses pocket. Inside the large interior compartment, there are four slip pockets and three zippered pockets to keep all your baby gear organized. The removable straps allow you to quickly convert it from a backpack to a tote or messenger bag. Bonus: This large diaper bag comes with a memory foam changing pad.

Dimensions: 14" (L) x 6.5" (W) x 12" (H) | Weight: 2.8 lbs. | Materials: Polyester

Buy Now

Best unisex diaper bag

STATE Lorimer Diaper Bag
Image: STATE
Buying Options
STATE|$210
What We Love
  • Gender-neutral design
  • Fits a 15" laptop
  • Changing pad included
Things To Consider
  • High price point

Designed for parents by parents, this diaper bag is lightweight and utilitarian. And you’d never guess this sleek backpack was a diaper bag, making it the perfect pick for low-key moms and dads. Inside, you’ll find an insulated bottle pocket plus mesh inserts for diapers and wipes. There’s also a slip pocket for your phone and space at the side for a water bottle. It’s designed to suit a busy lifestyle with built-in stroller straps, a luggage sleeve and a padded laptop compartment. Bonus: Get 10 percent off all purchases plus free shipping with the code THEBUMP10.

Dimensions: 13" (L) x 5.9" (W) x 16.5" (H) | Weight: 3 lbs. | Materials: Nylon, recycled polyester

Buy Now

Best messenger-style diaper bag

E.C. Knoxx Madison Diaper Bag
Image: Nordstrom
What We Love
  • Convertible style
  • Changing mat included
Things To Consider
  • Bottle pocket isn’t insulated

Sick of rooting through a jam-packed bag to find what you need buried at the bottom? Consider this stylish messenger style by E.C Knoxx. Open it up to get a bird’s-eye view of all your items, and unzip the compartment at the back to reveal a fold-out changing station. There's also a magnetized exterior flap that lifts for easy access to wipes. And if you have your hands full, you can attach it to a stroller or adjust the straps and wear it as a backpack.

Dimensions: 16" (L) x 6.5" (W) x 11.5" (H) | Weight: 4 lbs. | Materials: Nylon

Buy Now

Best diaper bag for working parents

Mina Baie Emmy Tote
Image: Mina Baie
Buying Options
Mina Baie|$189
What We Love
  • Has three different carry modes and straps
  • Nine interior pockets and three exterior pockets
  • Comes in six different colors
Things To Consider
  • High price point
  • Stroller hooks and changing pad are sold separately

Need a diaper bag that can pull double duty as a work-appropriate tote? Enter this stunning tote bag from Mina Baie, which has such a stylish design (thanks to the vegan leather material and slouchy yet structured silhouette) that your coworkers’ heads will turn. For days in the office, this bag has room for everything from your laptop (up to 16 inches) to all of your pumping parts and work essentials—which will all be kept organized thanks to nine interior pockets. And for those days when you’re in full blown mom-mode, you’ll be sure to appreciate the water-resistant lining, two exterior bottle pockets, and removable backpack straps. Did we mention it has three different convenient carry modes to boot? Though my children are now out of diapers, this is the bag I would choose if investing in one today.

Dimensions: 15" (L) x 7" (W) x 12.5" (H) | Weight: 1.9 lbs. | Materials: Microfiber vegan leather

Buy Now

Best diaper bag fanny pack

Kibou Vegan Leather Bag
Image: Kibou
What We Love
  • Minimalist design
  • Made from recycled vegan leather
  • Changing pad included
Things To Consider
  • Not suitable for the newborn stage

Next up on our list of the best diaper bags: the Kibou diaper fanny pack. (Yes, that’s right, a fanny pack!) Created by two Brooklyn-based moms, the Kibou is a minimal diaper bag that fits everything you need for a day out with baby—nothing more, nothing less. It’s light enough to be worn around your waist, but is still chock-full of cool features. Inside you’ll find a built-in waterproof pocket for wet wipes or soiled clothes, a slot for credit cards and cash and a large pocket that’ll store baby essentials like diapers, snacks and bibs. It’s made from wipeable vegan leather and comes in five fabulous colors. The best part? This small diaper bag has a detachable changing pad that unfolds from the back flap. Wow!

Dimensions: 11" (L) x 4" (W) x 6" (H) | Weight: N/A | Materials: Vegan leather, nylon

“Fanny packs, belt bags—whatever you call them—they’re having a major moment. Function meets fashion with the Kibou diaper bag—it’s sleek, it’s chic and it’s practical to boot. I’d wear mine on long walk where I didn’t feel like schlepping a big bag or for quick errands that didn’t warrant having #allthethings. Curating the mommy must-haves can be a challenge, but it’s a welcome relief to not carry everything and the kitchen sink.” - Lauren Barth, mom of three and associate director of lifecycle content at The Bump

Buy Now

Best convertible diaper bag

TWELVElittle Peek-a-Boo Vegan Leather Convertible Hobo Backpack
Image: Amazon
What We Love
  • Included stroller clips, changing pad and wipes pouch
  • Gold accent
  • Vegan Leather
Things To Consider
  • On the heavier side

Is it a hobo bag? Is it a backpack? Is it a crossbody bag? This diaper bag from TWELVElittle is actually all three, thanks to its nifty convertible design. That means whether you’re headed out for brunch with friends or adventures and errands with your little ones, there’s no need to grab a separate bag or purse. Not only can it be carried three different ways on your body, it can also be hung from a stroller or luggage handle for hands-free transport. We also love the front pouch wipe compartment, two insulated bottle compartments, included machine-washable changing pad and water-resistant inner lining.

Dimensions: 12.5" (L) x 5.5" (W) x 13.3" (H) | Weight: 3 lbs. | Materials: Vegan leather, polyester

Buy Now

Best leather diaper bag

Storksak St. James Convertible Leather Diaper Backpack
Image: Nordstrom
What We Love
  • Insulated bottle pocket
  • Changing pad included
  • Protective metal feet
Things To Consider
  • Not suitable for vegans
  • High price point

Yes, StorkSak’s leather diaper bags are a bit of a splurge—but think of it as an investment for life with baby and beyond. One of the best diaper bags made from real leather, this beauty is all clean lines and soft leather, but it still has all the practical features you’ll need. It comes complete with insulated bottle holders, plenty of hidden pockets and a changing pad for those inevitable rest stops. This baby diaper bag can be worn three ways: as a backpack, crossbody bag or as a tote. Once your little one has outgrown the diaper bag, you can rock it as a regular backpack or handbag—and no one will be the wiser.

Dimensions: 13" (L) x 6" (W) x 14.5" (H) | Weight: 2.5 lbs. | Materials: Leather

Buy Now

Best sustainable diaper bag

Product of the North Elkin Sustainable Diaper Backpack
Image: Nordstrom
Buying Options
Nordstrom|$99.99
What We Love
  • Made using recycled materials
  • Insulated bottle holder
  • Changing pad included
Things To Consider
  • It’s easy to lose things inside the large interior chamber

A list of the best diaper bags would not be complete without a sustainable option. Introducing the Elkin backpack by Product of the North. The durable, water-resistant canvas material is made from recycled water bottles. But the eco-friendly features don’t stop there, the included changing pad is made from recycled plastic too. In terms of design, the bag has a wide zip-top opening and plenty of pockets to keep parents organized.

Dimensions: 11.5" (L) x 5" (W) x 16.5" (H) | Weight: N/A | Materials: Water-resistant canvas

Buy Now

Best diaper bag insert

ToteSavvy Original
Image: ToteSavvy
What We Love
  • Removable insert can be added to most bags
  • Insulated bottle pocket
  • Changing pad included
Things To Consider
  • Organizer is best suited to large bags

If you’re dead set against buying a diaper bag, invest in an organizer to keep your regular bag organized. This option by Tote Savvy has 11 pockets, including an insulated bottle holder, key clasp and washable changing mat. It comes in a wipeable nylon material or a durable cotton canvas, and is best suited for large totes.

Dimensions: 14" (L) x 4" (W) x 10" (H) | Weight: 13.7 oz. | Materials: Nylon or cotton canvas

“I never used a traditional diaper bag—we typically corralled everything in pouches in the bottom of the stroller. But when I was traveling sans stroller, I swore by the Tote Savvy insert. It has so many pockets, sized just-right for diapers, toys, a change of clothes and even an insulated bottle keeper. The organizer fit perfectly in all my existing totes, and transferred from bag to bag with ease. Best of all, I never had to dig around when I needed something quickly,” - Lauren Kay, mom of two and executive editor at The Bump

Buy Now

Diaper Bags Comparison Chart

Overall best diaper bagBest travel diaper bagBest lightweight diaper bagBest diaper bag for twinsBest tote diaper bagBest small diaper bagBest large diaper bagBest unisex diaper bagBest messenger-style diaper bagBest diaper bag for working parentsBest diaper bag fanny packBest convertible diaper bag
Overall Best
Dagne Dover Indi Diaper Backpack
7AM Soho Carryall Diaper Bag
Skip Hop Forma Backpack Diaper Bag
TWELVElittle Companion Carry Love Quilted Diaper Bag
Caraa Baby Tote
Petunia Pickle Bottom Criss-Cross Sling
JuJuBe B.F.F.
STATE Lorimer Diaper Bag
E.C. Knoxx Madison Diaper Bag
Mina Baie Emmy Tote
Kibou Vegan Leather Bag
TWELVElittle Peek-a-Boo Vegan Leather Convertible Hobo Backpack
Price$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
Dimensions12.3" (L) x 7" (W) x 13.8" (H)18.5" (L) x 7.5" (W) x 11" (H)16" (L) x 8" (W) x 14" (H)13.8" (L) x 4.8" (W) x 13.3" (H)15" (L) x 6.5" (W) x 12.5" (H)7.9" (L) x 3.9" (W) x 11" (H)14" (L) x 6.5" (W) x 12" (H)13" (L) x 5.9" (W) x 16.5" (H)16" (L) x 6.5" (W) x 11.5" (H)15" (L) x 7" (W) x 12.5" (H)11" (L) x 4" (W) x 6" (H)12.5" (L) x 5.5" (W) x 13.3" (H)
Weight4 lbs.N/A1.4 lbs2 lbs.3.5 lbs13 oz.2.8 lbs.3 lbs.4 lbs.1.9 lbs.N/A3 lbs.
Changing pad
Laptop storage
Stroller compatible
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What to Look for in a Diaper Bag

A diaper bag is just like a regular bag, right? Wrong. Diaper bags are specially designed for new parents, with unique features to help keep baby’s stuff organized when you’re on the move. Here, find a few things to keep in mind while shopping for a baby bag.

  • Pockets. The key to an organized diaper bag? Pockets—and lots of them. Having special compartments for diapers, wet wipes or soiled clothes is a life-saver when you’re changing baby on the move. Moreover, an insulated bottle pocket ensures baby’s milk is kept at the perfect temperature. Other purpose-built pockets that are sure to come in handy are security pockets (for your cards and keys) and a padded sleeve for storing a laptop or tablet.

  • Size. Size is a key consideration when it comes to diaper bags. For newborns or families with more than one child, a large diaper bag that fits plenty of gear is a safe bet. However, if you like to travel light, or your child is potty-trained, a small bag will fit all of the essentials. Before you purchase a bag, pause and think about your particular needs to determine the best size for you.

  • Changing pad. A changing mat gives parents a comfy and hygienic spot to change baby’s diaper. Opt for a diaper bag with a removable mat or a built-in changing station that folds right out of the bag.

  • Stroller straps. Many diaper bags come equipped with straps or clips that can be attached to a stroller’s handlebars, but these straps are not always a given. If you rely on your stroller for most outings, this feature is a must-have.

  • Easy-to-clean material. Parenting can be a messy business, so it’s best to buy a diaper bag that’s easy to keep clean. Go for bags that are machine-washable or made with wipe-clean materials.

Types of Diaper Bags

Diaper bags come in all shapes and sizes. Before we get to our roundup of the best diaper bags, here’s a brief rundown of the different styles on the market:

  • Diaper backpack: A diaper backpack is a great hands-free option for busy parents on the go. Backpack-style diaper bags tend to have plenty of interior and exterior pockets, which is an added plus for parents. Bonus: This is one of the most common styles on the market, so you’ll have plenty of diaper bags to choose from.

  • Messenger diaper bag: A messenger diaper bag (also known as a crossbody bag) has one long strap that can be worn on the shoulder or across the body.

  • Diaper bag tote: Tote bags come equipped with small grab handles as well as a long shoulder strap. Fashion-conscious parents will love diaper bag totes, as they offer lots of room and are almost identical to a regular handbag.

  • Convertible diaper bag: A convertible diaper bag is a hybrid of all three of the styles listed above. They are ultra-practical and can be clipped to a stroller or worn as a backpack, tote or messenger bag. Some convertible diaper bags even come with a built-in luggage sleeve that can be slipped over the handle of a suitcase. Now that’s functional fashion!

About the writer:

Lynsey Eidell has researched and written dozens of product reviews for The Bump, from the best pregnancy belly bands to the best baby bassinets and beyond. She’s also written about entertainment, pop culture, weddings and motherhood for digital publications including PEOPLE, Glamour, Vanity Fair, Teen Vogue, Allure and more. She is a graduate of Villanova University and a native of Fairfield County, Connecticut, where she currently lives with her husband and three young boys, who are 7, 5, and 4—and gave her plenty of experience with diaper bags over the years.

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