As a mom, I know the bag or purse that I choose to carry with me needs to be functional. After all, a majority of the items I store in it belong to my children. There are several features I look for in my list of best mom bags, but the most important thing is that I actually have to want to lug my bag around from place to place instead of dreading it.
In this guide, we will talk about several styles and which purse would be best for which kind of mom. Hopefully, it will reduce the anxiety and stress of trying to figure out which one you should buy. Or if you’re a dad reading this, what would be best for the mother of your kids.
Carry on reading or jump straight to our number #1 pick on Amazon here.
Table of Contents
What Should I Look for in a Mom Bag or Purse?
When you are shopping for a brand new mom bag, you are probably wondering where to start. Obviously, you want it to have all of the features you are looking for and to be within your budget. Below I have compiled a list of all the most important features that moms like to see in their purses.
Pockets
Plenty of pockets for organizing is always the number one thing that moms look for when they want to buy a new purse. This way you can easily keep your things separated from your child’s, making it much easier to locate what you’re looking for.
Comfort
This is something that you will be lugging around with you whenever you leave the house. Comfortable shoulder straps are extremely important to prevent pain or even injury if the bag is heavy.
Style
There are several styles and types, which you can find in more depth below in the next section. Also, there are plenty of options that are a real purse and not a diaper bag. This may come down to personal preference or the amount of storage space that you are looking to gain.
Types of Bags
Crossbody Bag
Crossbody bags are usually on the smaller side but have plenty of pockets to hold all sorts of essentials. The best part is that it has a comfortable shoulder strap that goes across your body so you don’t have to use your hands to hold it in place.
Tote Bag
These types of bags come in various materials with the most common being canvas or some sort of lightweight fabric. Depending on the style, you may not have as many pockets, but they can be pretty large, so they are great for carrying an extra change of clothes for your toddler.
Diaper Bag
This obviously isn’t a purse, but it is very handy after having a baby. Most diaper bags can hold everything you will need for your little one and you if you go on an outing. I find that I didn’t carry a purse for at least 6 months after giving birth, because my baby needed more things on the go than I did!
Messenger Bag
Similar to a cross-body bag, a messenger bag is usually slightly larger and can be worn cross-body or just over your shoulder. This depends on the style, size of the shoulder strap, and of course, your personal preference. The nice thing is that this type of bag typically has very large pockets.
Backpack
Some moms prefer a backpack because of the comfort and because it also keeps their hands free.
Bucket Bag
This type of mom bag looks the most like a tote bag but also a real purse. Many of these can be found in leather or faux leather, and sometimes even nylon fabric. Many bucket bags do not have organizational pockets, and sometimes you’re even lucky to get a single zipper pocket. However, many moms like this style when they have less to carry around.
Size
Depending on what you typically carry with you when you leave are going to decide the size bag you will choose. I have included varying sizes to help you find the best one for you and your kids.
Here’s How I’ve Determined the Best Bags and Purses for Moms
Every mom is different, so I wanted to be sure that I covered all of the available styles and the best ones on the market of those styles. I have owned many different types of mom bags, so I have personal experience of what works with certain situations. This should help you pinpoint the right mom bag for you based on the features they have. However, I still did do some research, so I could make sure that each of these purses for moms was of great quality that would last. After all, you can expect to share your purse with your kids for the foreseeable future.
Our Top Picks for the Bags and Purses for Moms in 2024
#1: SoHo Grand Central Station Diaper Bag (Best Value)
Dimensions: 17.6 x 13.6 x 2.2 inches
Weight: 2 lbs
When I first saw this diaper bag set, I loved its style. I enjoy bags and purses that are functional but also cute. Even though this one is technically a diaper bag, it can still work as just a purse. There are several reasons why I chose this set as the number one pick for a mom’s purse. Keep reading to find out why this one stands out.
It Has Multiple Pieces
This is something you won’t see with any of the other purses on this list. Not only do you have the large tote bag, but there are several other smaller pieces included as well. The most mentionable is a smaller personal purse with a shoulder strap, an insulated bottle bag, and an organizational bag. Each of these is great for separating smaller items, so it is easier to find what you are looking for. The personal purse is perfect for holding your wallet, phone, and even lip balm. The best part is that each of the additional bags can be used on its own.
It Has a 12-Month Warranty
I have not come across any other bag, let alone a diaper bag, with a warranty. Obviously, that detail makes this diaper bag set stand out. SoHo is dedicated to making sure that you are satisfied with their products and will do whatever they to give you a bag that is perfect for your lifestyle.
Pros
- Also includes a changing pad for your baby or toddler
- The main bag has many compartments for organization
- Has a flat bottom, so it also sits upright
- Made of waterproof and stain-resistant fabric
- Machine washable
Cons
- Doesn’t have a long shoulder strap, so it requires some holding
- It may not be right for someone who is looking for simplicity
The straps on this bag may be a deal-breaker for some, but keep in mind that it does come with stroller straps, so you can attach it and make it truly hands-free. This diaper bag is perfect for all ages and lifestyles, and its durable quality mixed with the affordable price is exactly why this one takes the cake. Take it on a trip, to the grocery store, or even soccer practice. I promise it will not disappoint!
Dimensions: 13.8 x 10.6 x 5.1 inches
Weight: 2.3 lbs
What else can I say about this tote bag besides that is just so pretty! Moms deserve nice things too, and this would be the perfect gift for you to splurge and treat that special mom in your life for Mother’s Day. It’s also functional, so if you’re a mom or know one that likes gifts that are also useful then this would be a great choice. Read on to see what my favorite features of this bag are.
It’s Made of Genuine Leather
If you are fine with a bag that isn’t vegan, then you will not be disappointed with the feel and quality of this bag. Just like the Wise Owl cross-body bag on this list, this is made with genuine high-quality leather. You would probably choose this one if you prefer the tote bag style and the extra room since it’s larger than the Wise Owl.
It Comes in Multiple Colors
Some of the other bags on this list do not give you color options, like the SoHo handbag set I mentioned earlier. If you like choices, then this may be a better fit. There are 6 colors to pick from, and you can choose the one that best suits your style.
It Has a Large Capacity
What smaller totes and cross-body bags lack is space. They are considerably smaller, and sometimes you can fit a tablet in there but never a laptop like you can with this bag. It has a separate compartment for your personal computer, so you can take it with you on the go if you need to or want to. Then there’s still plenty of space for your wallet, phone, keys, and snacks for the kids. I highly recommend it for toddler moms because it is a great size for their essentials.
Pros
- The handles are soft and comfortable
- The straps are adjustable
- Many of the pockets have zippers
- It looks like a purse rather than a diaper bag
Cons
- It’s not as easy to keep clean, and you need to take care of the leather
- It is a tote so it wouldn’t be hands free
Some moms like items that are easy to clean and take care of. This is a great choice for a mom with older toddlers because I wouldn’t store baby bottles in this purse. Since it is made of cow leather, it requires some maintenance to keep it looking clean and new. If you are looking for something simpler, you can choose our #1 pick, the SoHo bag set. Otherwise, if you want to splurge and get a really nice leather bag to use as your mom’s bag, I would say go for this one if you have the budget.
#3: Wise Owl Real Leather Crossbody Handbag (Best Cross Body)
Dimensions: 10.4 x 10 x 0.8 inches
Weight: 12.8 oz
I personally love cross-body bags. They are lightweight, small, and perfect for quick trips out for my kids. I don’t always enjoy carrying a bulky bag, and when I need to haul around fewer items, I go for my cross-body bag, which is similar to this one. Mine is quite old, and I can’t find the brand anymore, but I would buy this one in a heartbeat when it is time to treat myself to a new one. Let’s talk about the best details of this crossbody bag.
The Strap is Fully Adjustable
The strap of this crossbody bag is very versatile. You can adjust it to wear it across your body or as a simple shoulder bag. Having this option is nice because sometimes I like to carry my bag in different ways. Many of the mom bags on this list do not give you the option to wear them in multiple ways, so that’s one of the reasons that this handbag stood out to me.
It Can Carry a Lot of Things
Even though this cross-body bag is much smaller compared to most of the bags on this list, it still holds a decent capacity. It is most ideal for small things, so I wouldn’t recommend this if you are planning to use your bag to hold big baby items. It’s perfect for small snacks, wipes, and things that are more suited for a young child or even a toddler.
Pros
- It’s soft and comfortable but strong and durable
- Zippers are smooth and glide easily
- Comes in multiple colors
- Has a no-hassle, money-back guarantee
Cons
- The leather needs extra care, making it more work to keep it clean
- It’s very small
Just like with the Kattee tote bag, it needs to be taken care of since it is made of genuine cow leather. If that doesn’t bother you, I highly recommend this as a smaller bag that you can take on small family outings with your kids and keep everything they need in this mom bag. It is large enough to accommodate a tablet, so you can fit more items in it than you think. Compared to any of the cross-body bags that I have seen, this one had the best reviews and is definitely one I would purchase for myself or even ask for as a Mother’s Day gift.
#4: Nodykka Women Tote Bag (Best Low Cost)
Dimensions: 14 x 12 x 0.8 inches
Weight: 12.8 oz
I have this bag, and I love it. The price tag had me skeptical because it is so inexpensive, but the overwhelmingly positive feedback convinced me to buy this bag. It is the perfect size for holding everything I need when leaving the house, as well as all of my kids’ essentials. Keep reading to see the biggest reasons why I included this as the best budget-friendly handbag.
It’s Perfect For Vegans
If you are vegan or prefer vegan accessories, this faux leather mom purse will be perfect for you. It is the only faux leather bag that I have included on this list because out of all of the others I have used or seen, this one was the best. It’s durable and also comfortable to carry around.
It Has So Much Room
I don’t think I have ever owned a purse that has such a large capacity without feeling bulky. I can fit everything I need, and all the essentials I need for my kids when I take them out of the house. I can even slip a diaper and some wipes in there and still have additional space. The only drawback is that there are no separate compartments or zipper pockets. There is one tiny slip pocket that can be used for lip balm or something similar in size, but that’s it.
Pros
- The handles are great for use as shoulder straps
- Has a magnetic closure that’s easy to open and close
- Comes in multiple colors
- Reinforced stitching where the straps attach to the bag
Cons
- Not the best choice for organizing
- It doesn’t have a zipper
Obviously, the biggest flaw of this shoulder bag is that it does not have a single zipper pocket. Unfortunately, that can sometimes be a drawback of such a low price tag. This can sometimes make it difficult to carry too many different things because it is not as easy to find what you need fast. Most of the time, that is needed when toddlers are involved. However, I still really love this tote bag and I use it frequently, even when I leave the house without the rest of the family.
#5: Ruvalino Multifunction Travel Backpack (Best Backpack)
Dimensions: 16.5 x 11.8 x 7.9 inches
Weight: 2 lbs
I have found that backpacks are the perfect purses for moms who have a baby in tow. These are going to keep your hands free and distribute the weight better, so it’s easier on your back and shoulders. This particular backpack is one of the best options for diaper bags because of its design, comfort, and capacity. Read on to see what the top reasons are for choosing this over all of the other handbags.
The Top Handles Are Strong
The handles on this backpack are durable and a great size for carrying and holding this backpack when you take it off your back. This makes it easy for you to move it around and search through it when you or your baby needs something from it. In my opinion, this bag would be perfect for a parent who always has their hands full, or who has a little one who needs extra essentials like diapers, bottles, etc.
It Comes With a Changing Pad
The only other mom bag on this list that comes with a changing pad is the number one pick, the SoHo diaper bag set. All of the other options don’t come with one, which is why either of these two options would be best for sharing with a baby. Your choice will come down to preference in style, but both of them get the job done well.
Pros
- Comes in multiple color options
- Has 6 main compartment zipper pockets
- Has a “mommy” pocket for easy access to your phone, wallet, credit cards, etc.
- Has two insulated bottle pockets
- Has a padded laptop pocket
- Made of waterproof fabric
Cons
- It doesn’t feel much like a traditional purse
- It’s not very easy to clean
If you choose this over all of the other handbags, you will not be disappointed, if you like the backpack style. It’s durable and easy to carry and has plenty of zipper pockets to hold all of the things that you need for yourself and your baby, or even if you have multiple young toddlers. Overall, it’s a solid choice that is still fairly budget-friendly.
Runner-Ups
The handbags below just missed the cut for the top 5, but are still good choices if you prefer their styles to the others that are mentioned.
#6: Realer Hobo Bag Bucket Purse (Best Bucket Bag)
Dimensions: 16.9 x 14.6 x 2.8 inches
Weight: 2 lbs
This bucket bag is a great choice if you like having multiple straps so you can carry it in different ways.
Pros
- Made of anti-scratch vegan leather
- Comes in many different color options
- Has a zipper pocket and a couple of slip pockets
Cons
- It is large enough to accommodate a laptop but doesn’t have as much space as some of the other purses
- Some of the colors advertised aren’t exact
#7: Fabuxry Cross Body Messenger Bag (Best Messenger Bag)
Dimensions: 11 x 8.3 x 4.3 inches
Weight: 1 lb
I have found that messenger bags aren’t as popular as others. Still, I wanted to include this one just to be sure that there is truly something for every mom.
Pros
- Comes in multiple colors and patterns
- Made of lightweight nylon fabric
- Has an adjustable shoulder strap
- Has many outside pockets with zippers for easy access
Cons
- You probably wouldn’t use this after your kids have grown
- It doesn’t look like a traditional purse
Verdict: Your Best Bags and Purses for Moms
Here is the takeaway of the best purses for moms.
If you want the best value for your money, pick the SoHo Grand Central Station Diaper Bag. Multiple pieces give you so much versatility.
For the best premium, pick the Kattee Vintage Genuine Leather Tote Shoulder Bag. Made of genuine leather, this tote will make moms feel spoiled.
If you are looking for the best cross-body bag, pick the Wise Owl Real Leather Crossbody Handbag. It is also made of real leather and is the best cross-body bag on this list.
If you want to spend under $15, pick the Nodykka Women Tote Bag. It provides you with so much space even though it lacks pockets.
For the best backpack, pick the Ruvalino Multifunction Travel Backpack. It’s comfortable, durable, functional, and also cute.
Runners Up
If you are looking for the best bucket bag, pick the Realer Hobo Bag Bucket Purse.
If you want the best messenger bag, pick the Fabuxry Cross Body Messenger Bag.
Each one of these handbags would be a great option for a Mother’s Day gift. Your purchases will be based on style, size, and budget. If you are looking for a purse for yourself, you will not be disappointed with any of these because I only included the ones with the highest quality. After all, no one wants a product that isn’t going to last through typical mom-life duties. I hope you find the right handbag for yourself or that special mom in your life, with a price tag that is within your budget.