In my experience, backpack diaper bags are a must-have for new parents. They are stylish and cute, yet also convenient and easy to use as a hands-free option. No more trying to lug around a regular diaper bag with a car seat or small child plus juggle your purse, keys, or whatever else you may be carrying. You and your arms can enjoy a trip around the zoo or museum without being weighed down by an uncomfortable and bulky bag swinging off your shoulder.
The right backback diaper bag for you will depend on your specific needs. If you’re looking for the best value for your money, I recommend the Hap Tim Diaper Bag Backpack. It has everything you need in a diaper bag and more, it looks great, and it comes at a great price.
If budget is no issue and you want a well-known brand you can trust , go with the JuJuBe B.F.F Multi-Functional Convertible Diaper Backpack. It doubles as a messenger bag, and the higher price is offset by its lifetime guarantee.
Continue reading to find out more about these bags, and to see a variety of choices for different needs.
Table of Contents
- What Should I Look for in a Backpack Diaper Bag?
- Here’s How We’ve Determined the Best Backpack Diaper Bag
- Our Top Picks for the Best Backpack Diaper Bag of 2024
- #1: Hap Tim Diaper Bag Backpack (Best Value)
- #2: JuJuBe B.F.F Multi-Functional Convertible Diaper Backpack (Best Overall)
- #3: Vogshow Waterproof Diaper Bag (Most Innovative)
- #4: Fisher-Price Morgan Quilted Diaper Backpack (Best Low Cost)
- #5: Eddie Bauer® Sport Traveler Diaper Backpack in Grey (Best for Dads)
- #6: Skip Hop Diaper Bag Backpack (Best for Luxury)
- #7: Petunia Pickle Bottom Boxy Backpack (Most Modern Look)
- Backpack Diaper Bags vs Regular Diaper Bags
- Verdict: Your Best Backpack Diaper Bag
They didn’t have diaper bag backpacks when my first two were born, but they were (and still are) all the rage when my youngest was born. And now that my babies are having babies, they’ve also opted for the backpack diaper bags. According to my son-in-law, he’d just as soon as carry the diaper bag contents in a plastic trash bag rather than having to be seen with a regular diaper bag. (He can be a bit dramatic at times.) So, guess what he got at their baby shower over the weekend? You guessed it – a backpack diaper bag. He was more excited about that bag than any other single thing they received.
What Should I Look for in a Backpack Diaper Bag?
Believe it or not, choosing a backpack diaper bag isn’t as easy as going to the local department store or shopping online and picking the first cute one you see. There are certain criteria you’ll want to consider. Below are just a few things to keep in mind when shopping for the best backpack diaper bag.
Criteria #1: Is it going to be comfortable?
Keep in mind that you’re likely to use your backpack diaper bag for several years, so you’ll want to make sure it’s comfortable when you wear it. Have your partner try it on as well, since it’s likely you both will be using it from time to time.
Criteria #2: What types of shoulder straps are on the backpack?
Look for the wide, padded straps for your backpack. They’re easier on your shoulders and will adjust to your body. Some products have convertible straps so that you can either use it as a backpack or as a crossbody bag. Another thing to look for is stroller straps so that you can attach it to your stroller.
Criteria #3: Does it have adequate pockets and storage?
Your bag should be large enough to fit everything you’ll need in it, but not so large that you end up taking along unnecessary or too many things. It should be big enough to fit an adequate amount of diapers, diaper wipes, and maybe a change of clothes or two, and a small blanket, if needed.
Another great feature to be on the lookout for is pockets. Exterior pockets make for easy access to pacifiers and bottles or toys. Many have pockets on the inside for mommy or daddy essentials plus the little things you need, like diaper rash cream or a small bottle of powder. Insulated pockets will keep help keep bottles fresh. Some also have side pockets designated for wipes.
Here’s How We’ve Determined the Best Backpack Diaper Bag
I’ve taken into consideration the features per price point of each bag and its reviews. I chose bags from Amazon as well as other online retailers such as Buy Buy Baby and Target. I’ve also considered my own experiences with diaper bag backpacks and those of my friends and family.
Our Top Picks for the Best Backpack Diaper Bag of 2024
#1: Hap Tim Diaper Bag Backpack (Best Value)
The Hap Tim Diaper Bag Backpack is our top pick because it is everything you need in a diaper bag. The fact that it happens to have straps and is actually a backpack diaper bag makes it a perfect choice for new parents. You’ll see why in a second.
It Has Thick And Wide Padded Shoulder Straps
The thick, sponge padded mesh back with wide padded straps will distribute the weight of your backpack evenly on your shoulders and back. It also helps to protect your back . . . which you’ll be thankful for after carrying your baby around all day.
Stroller Straps Are Included
It comes with two stroller straps so you can conveniently hang your diaper bag from your stroller or shopping cart.
It Has 18 Pockets
If you’re anything like me at all, you like to stay organized. This is even more important when your crying baby is just wanting his or her pacifier and you’re frantically digging through your bag to find it. With the Hap Tim Diaper Bag Backpack, you won’t have to worry about not being able to find anything because this bag has 18, yes, 18, pockets . . . the most of any bags on this list. Keep everything together in this bag. There’s even a side pocket for easy access to tissues or baby wipes.
There Are Insulated Pockets
Among the 18 pockets is a large insulated pocket that’ll hold up to three bottles, helping keep them at the right temperature when you’re on the go.
It’s Water-Resistant
The water-resistant feature ensures the contents in your bag will stay dry even in the rain.
It Wipes Clean
The front food compartment is also made with a waterproof liner. Combined with the polyester fabric, this bag is easy to just spot or wipe clean.
It Comes In Style
Choose the ideal style color for your family with a choice of four colors and designs. Choose from color options of blue/pink, dark gray, green/black, or gray. You and your partner will be excited to be seen out in public with this bag.
Many parents say this is a great backpack diaper bag. It’s spacious and practical with a great design.
#2: JuJuBe B.F.F Multi-Functional Convertible Diaper Backpack (Best Overall)
If you’re looking for the perfect baby shower present or even a birthday present for an expecting mom or dad, and money is no object, you should consider checking out the JuJuBe B.F.F. Multi-Functional Convertible Diaper Backpack. Every single person at the party will be jealous and the parents-to-be will be ecstatic. That’s because this thing is the Rolls Royce of diaper bags. The extras of this bag are crazy insane. This is definitely one of the best backpack diaper bags of 2020.
It Has Adjustable Straps With Memory Foam
This diaper bag has adjustable straps with a removable memory foam shoulder pad. The straps can be used as either a messenger or tote bag.
It Has Detachable Backpack Straps
If you don’t want to use the bag as a messenger bag or tote bag, no problem. It comes with detachable backpack straps meaning you can choose how you want to carry your diaper bag.
There Are Pockets For Organization
Organize your pockets including diaper cream, baby powder, blankets, extra onesies, and anything else in one of the four gusseted pockets or the three zippered pockets inside the main compartment. Carry two bottles in the insulated pockets by Thinsulate by 3M. There’s even a pocket with a key fob, a glasses pocket, and a quick reach cell phone pocket.
It’s Machine Washable
Not only has the fabric been Agion-treated on the interior to resist bacteria, mold, and mildew, but the Teflon treated exterior resists stains. That’s not all. This bag is machine washable. Seriously. All you have to do is stick it in the washing machine and you’re done. It doesn’t get much easier than that, right?
There’s A Crumb Drain
This bag features a crumb drain to keep the inside of the bag clean. No other bag on this list has this feature. If you’ve ever reached in for a pacifier and came back out with a handful of graham cracker crumbs, you know what an awesome score this is.
It Has Luggage Feet
You won’t have to worry about the bottom of your bag getting filthy because it has luggage feet.
It Includes A Memory Foam Changing Pad
Change your baby in comfort with the included memory foam changing pad.
It Comes in Different Styles
Like the Hap Tim Diaper Bag Backpack, this one also comes in different styles. Choose from Queen of the Nile, The First Lady, The Duchess, or The Cleopatra.
There’s A Lifetime Limited Warranty
This bag even comes with a lifetime limited warranty against manufactured defects. Just keep in mind that this warranty only applies if you purchased your bag from an authorized JuJuBe seller.
Moms and Dads alike reviewed this bag. They all agree that while it’s on the more expensive side, especially for a diaper bag, that it’s worth every penny. It’s a quality diaper bag and the features make it that much better. Definitely a must-have.
#3: Vogshow Waterproof Diaper Bag (Most Innovative)
This hands-free bag is on the list for one of the best diaper bags for innovation and style. Coming in black, blue, gray, or pink, this bag is cutting edge.
It Comes With Innovative Styles
The Vogshow Waterproof Diaper Bag is on the leading edge of innovation with these diaper bag backpacks. You can use it not only as a backpack or handbag but with the included single strap, you can transform it into a shoulder bag or a crossbody bag. These options also make it easy to hang on the stroller, luggage, or shopping cart for added convenience.
It Features 13 Compartments
The pockets for this diaper bag are everything a parent could ask for. There are pockets including three insulated bottle holders in the front with a large insulated pocket on the inside, two side pockets for tissues or snacks, a wet/dry separation pocket for wet clothes or wipes, a 14-inch laptop compartment, plus four other storage compartments and a key chain holder to use as you wish.
There’s A Secret Pocket
As if all of the pockets and compartments aren’t enough, there’s a bonus pocket on the back of the diaper bag. This is the only bag on this list with this feature. The anti-theft pocket is a great place to keep your personals. It’s also a way to gain access to the inside of the bag without having to go in from the top.
The Top Features Two Magnetic Snaps
The main compartment of this bag features two magnetic strips on a metal frame instead of zippered pockets like most of the products on this list, giving you easy access when you’re in a rush.
It’s Water-Resistant
Like the Hap Tim Diaper Bag Backpack, the Vogshow Waterproof Diaper Bag is also water-resistant and made of high-quality and lightweight materials.
You Can Wipe It Clean
Again just like the Hap Tim Diaper Bag Backpack, you can easily spot or wipe clean.
Consumers say this is the best bag ever. It has enough pockets for everything you’ll need for an outing with your little one. It’s even big enough to handle things for two toddlers, which can actually be quite a bit.
#4: Fisher-Price Morgan Quilted Diaper Backpack (Best Low Cost)
This is the best baby bag on our list for under $40. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t made with just as much quality or has any fewer extras than the other products on this list. Definitely don’t discount this one just because of its low price tag. In fact, embrace it, because this is a really good bag.
There Are Adjustable Shoulder Straps
This bag has adjustable straps, making it a great backpack bag to share with your partner.
It Features Tablet and Cell Phone Pockets
Don’t worry about leaving home without your trusted tablet or cell phone. The main compartment of the bag has built-in pockets specifically designed for both of these.
It Has Insulated Bottle Pockets
It has insulated pockets including the SUPER COOLER pocket that will keep up to three bottles fresh and ready for the next use.
It Comes With A Folded Changing Pad
A Chevron print folded changing pad is included so you want to have to worry about finding a sanitary place to change your baby’s diaper.
You Can Choose From Four Colors
You even have color options: Classic Navy, Black, Burgandy, or Olive.
It Easily Wipes Clean
Like the Hap Tim Diaper Bag Backpack and the Vogshow Waterproof Diaper Bag, this one is also easy to wipe clean or spot clean
So many parents recommend this backpack diaper bag. They love the colors and size of the bag and the ability to hang it on a stroller proves it’s great for travel.
#5: Eddie Bauer® Sport Traveler Diaper Backpack in Grey (Best for Dads)
This backpack diaper bag made the list specifically for the dads in our lives. Remember when I was telling you my son-in-law’s wish came true when he got one at the baby shower? Well, this is the one . . . and he loves it. According to him, even though they now have two baby girls, this bag doesn’t look girly. Apparently a huge selling point. Who knew?
It Comes With Adjustable Shoulder Straps And Stroller Loops
The padded straps are adjustable for added comfort for your man (or you). And you can literally take it just about anywhere convenient using the stroller loops.
It Has Eight Pockets
Comparable to the JuJuBe B.F.F. Multi-Functional Convertible Diaper Backpack, the Eddie Bauer® Sport Traveler Diaper Backpack in Grey also has eight pockets and compartments. Like most other items on this list, it not only has pockets including the two exterior insulated pockets, but it also has two interior insulated pockets in the main compartment as well.
The Bag Includes Changing Pad
Similar to the other ones on this list, it also comes with a changing pad.
It Wipes Clean
This bag is also easy to clean . . . just wipe it down and go.
It Features A One-year Limited Warranty
Similar to the JuJuBe B.F.F. Multi-Functional Convertible Backpack, the Eddie Bauer® Sport Traveler Diaper Backpack in Grey comes with a warranty. This one just happens to be a one-year limited manufacturer’s warranty.
Parents say these diaper bag backpacks are great for on the go and the gender-neutral look is perfect for moms and dads alike.
#6: Skip Hop Diaper Bag Backpack (Best for Luxury)
Comparable to the JuJuBe B.F.F. Multi-Functional Convertible Backpack, the Skip Hop Diaper Bag Backpack is pure luxury and one of the best diaper bags of its kind. It’s known for its high-quality brand of baby items. Any parent-to-be will be beside herself (or himself) when getting this as a birthday or baby shower present.
It’s Made Of Leather
This luxury bag is made of durable vegan leather.
The Bag Features Nine Organizational Pockets
The zippered pocket to the main compartment features nine pockets for the ultimate organization, including a bottle pocket on one side. It also has a tablet or laptop sleeve so you can post those cute baby pics while you’re out and about with the kids.
There Are Built-In Stroller Straps
The built-in stroller strap makes it the perfect bag for any parent that is constantly on the go.
It Comes With A Machine Washable Changing Pad
This bag also comes with a cushioned changing pad that is machine washable so you’re always covered when it’s time for a diaper change.
Moms love this bag because it’s cute and functional. It’s a good size and not heavy, even when filled with baby gear and everything else you need for an outing with the baby or kids.
#7: Petunia Pickle Bottom Boxy Backpack (Most Modern Look)
Like the JuJuBe B.F.F. Multi-Functional Convertible Diaper Backpack and the Skip Hop Diaper Bag Backpack, this is another brand known for its high-quality baby products. It’s one of the best diaper bags of 2020 for its modern look.
It’s Made Of Leather
Similar to the Skip Hop Diaper Bag Backpack, this backpack is also made of quality leather materials.
It Features A Modern Look
It is designed specifically with the modern mom in mind, complete with stroller straps, magnetic closures for easy access, and two carrying options using it either as a backpack or carrying with the convenient top handle. People won’t even know that you’re carrying things like diaper cream and formula or milk and everything in between in your bag.
It Includes A Built-In Changing Station
Unlike the other bags on this list, this is the only bag with a built-in, zip-out changing area that ensures a clean and sanitary diaper change every time.
There Are Convenient Pockets
This bag has five interior pockets in the main compartment and two exterior bottle compartments.
This bag has rave reviews from moms all over. They say it’s a fantastic, high-quality, roomy bag that looks absolutely amazing.
Backpack Diaper Bags vs Regular Diaper Bags
Parenting comes with a lot of extra necessities. And let’s face it, a diaper bag is one of those necessities. You’re going to need a good diaper bag for quite a few years. At least until your kids are probably two or three years old. I know I still use mine when we are traveling and my daughter is almost six. You want a diaper bag that is going to be comfortable and practical. Choosing the right ones isn’t always a quick and easy decision. There are a few notable differences between the backpack bags and the regular, or tote, diaper bags.
First of all, the backpack ones obviously are a great hands-free option, which is perfect especially when your child is still a newborn. Trying to carry an infant seat plus a diaper bag plus your keys or wallet can quickly turn quite burdensome.
Both types of bags can provide a lot of extra space if used wisely. While a regular diaper bag is better for the organization of the bag, backpack ones have also come a long way in the organization. Both have compartments and sections that make it easy to quickly grab things like a baby diaper or cloth diapers and a changing pad, diaper cream, have bottle pockets, and can carry any other baby gear you deem necessary.
Most of the backpack bags have separate insulated bottle pockets. These insulated bottle pockets keep bottles or snacks warm or cold, depending on what you’re needing. They also have a quick and easy wipes pocket and easy-to-clean changing pads, making diaper changes a cinch.
The backpack ones typically come with stroller straps so you can easily hook it to a stroller, shopping cart, or luggage rack.
Verdict: Your Best Backpack Diaper Bag
In case you missed it, here are our picks of the best backpack diaper bags of 2020.
If you’re looking for the best value for the money, choose the Hap Tim Diaper Bag Backpack.
If you want the best of the best, pick the JuJuBe B.F.F Multi-Functional Convertible Diaper Backpack.
If you’re looking for innovation in a backpack diaper bag, choose the Vogshow Waterproof Diaper Bag.
If you want to keep the cost low, pick the Fisher-Price Morgan Quilted Diaper Backpack.
If you’re looking for a gender-neutral bag, choose the Eddie Bauer® Sport Traveler Diaper Backpack.
If you want luxury, pick the Skip Hop Diaper Bag Backpack.
If you’re looking for a modern look for moms, choose the Petunia Pickle Bottom Boxy Backpack.
If I can give you any advice on your diaper bag shopping journey, it’s this: find something durable, easy to care for, and has the number of pockets you think you’ll need to get the job done. The good news is that most of these can be found on Amazon or another online retailer.
Also, finding something you and your other half won’t mind using is going to be a huge plus. My son-in-law is literally counting down the days until the new baby comes just so he can use his backpack diaper bag. That’s not the only reason he’s counting down the days, but it sure is one of them. He’s pretty excited about the bag.
