LEO-approved diaper bags you might actually consider wearing once “little baby’s all grown up.”
HERSCHEL NOVA SPROUT BACKPACK
A simple design from this always-reliable brand. Comes with great features for toting your dad gear including a foldable, easy-wipe changing mat, side-access with zippers, a hook-and-loop fastened changing mat storage divider, front storage pockets (always good for easy access to pacifiers, bottles, burp cloths), a bottle pocket, and mesh sleeve.
EDDIE BAUER LEGEND FLAP TOP DIAPER BAG
If you happen to be on the lookout for a diaper bag that looks like it could double as a camping bag, here you go. In classic Eddie Bauer fashion, it has no less than seven spacious storage pockets, including baby bottle pockets. You can access compartments through a large top flap opening and easy-open, zip-side pockets. Also has loops to hook onto any stroller, comes with a diaper changing pad, and wipes storage dispenser.
BURBERRY WATSON DIAPER BACKPACK
Style-conscious dads need look no further than this Burberry number in black with the brand’s trademark plaid in the lining. Features include adjustable shoulder straps and a looped top handle; drawstring top with flap buckle cover; a black changing mat; two interior slip pockets and two side drawstring pockets on the outside; and is made up of ECONYL® nylon with a leather trim. It can be carried by the top handle or as a backpack.
WSEL SMALL SLING BAG
This one’s for the minimalistic, on-the-go dad. The Kobe bag features water resistant and stain repellant material that can withstand it all. With a charging port, tablet pocket, and glasses holder, it’s just as much your bag as your baby’s bag. A single, padded shoulder strap with a sleek zipper compartment and several zipper compartments on the outside for all the small stuff you don’t want to forget.
UPPABABY CHANGING BACKPACK
This minimalist design means you can sneak it into your work meeting, while subtle features like internal and external pockets, waterproof changing pad, and foldable bottle bag will organize everything you’ll need for baby. Made of premium fabrics with leather detailing. Can be worn as a backpack, and if you happen to have an UPPAbaby stroller (and there’s a decent chance you do), it also hangs perfectly on any of their strollers. Also comes in black for an even more low-key option.
SANDQVIST ROGER 18L TWO WAY TOTEPACK
This Scandinavian design is from one of Stockholm’s favorite brands. If you’re in the market for a bag you’ll actually be able to use again once baby grows up, this is your guy. It’s not originally intended as a diaper bag, but its water-resistant, extra-tough, Cordura EcoMade fabric can take a beating (never a bad thing when it comes to anything baby-related). Its multiple pockets, including zippered pockets and internal & external slip pockets, will hold all your dad essentials. And we love how it converts easily from tote bag to backpack for whatever your daily haul with baby requires.
SKIP HOP BAXTER DIAPER BACKPACK
For more of a Mr. Dad approach, this is a serious diaper bag. It comes with a multitude of pockets so you can get all OCD about it. If you’re new to this, you’ll soon get to know this brand, as they make every practical kid toy and gadget a parent could ask for. True to form, this diaper bag leaves no practical stone unturned. Ergonomic comfort. Innovative main compartment that opens at back to help distribute the weight of heavier items. A dedicated front changing station (a feature you’ll be thankful for) with zip-closure. Adjustable padded straps with the option of a top handle. Built-in stroller straps. Machine washable cushioned changing pad. Easy to clean fabric. And even fits up to a 1-inch laptop. The only thing it can’t do is change your baby’s diaper for you.
BAGGU LARGE SPORT BACKPACK
If you’re a do-it-yourself, on-the-go guy, or you just hate the idea of lugging a heavy diaper bag around—this is your bag. A fly, hardworking, super lightweight backpack that packs down into its own zip pocket, making it ideal for travel. The comfortable straps are padded and adjustable. It includes an interior pocket for a 15” laptop that could also double as a pocket for a diaper changing pad. Waterproof, machine washable, and made of partially recycled materials. The price makes it a no-brainer even as a travel-only, second to your main diaper bag.
BAGGU GO-POUCH
We recommend picking up a set of the brand’s machine washable, waterproof, packable zip-set to help organize all of baby’s gear within the backpack.
EAGLE CREEK PACK-IT SET
Alternatively, for a little more structure, we love this set of water-resistant, lightweight pouches to organize any diaper or travel bag. The sheer factor goes a long way when trying to find what you need mid-shit.
FOR WHEN YOU ARE ON THE GO
We recommend keeping the big guy in the car and throwing these smaller packs in the stroller for quick outings with baby.
TOPO DESIGNS MINI QUICK PACK
If you’re sticking your baby in the basket of your bicycle, this one’s for you. Plus we love its ‘80s dad vibes.
STORK DIAPER BAG SET
Has a magnetic closure designed to work one-handed—if you’re a new dad, you’ll soon appreciate the practicality of this. Also includes a neoprene bottle doozie with attachment for strollers or to hang onto a bigger diaper bag.
HERSCHEL SPROUT CHANGE MAT
Toss this in the bottom of your stroller and go. Fits just what you need for quick runs: a few diapers, diaper mat, and diaper rash cream.
JUJUBE HELIX BAG
A small messenger bag designed to stash everything you need for a quick day out with baby, including two insulated bottle pockets to keep bottles at perfect temp—hot or cold. But honestly, the “crumb drain” feature has to be the best feature we’ve ever heard of in a kid-related item.
EXTRA GEAR
SKIP HOP PACIFIER POCKET
In today’s edition of things you never knew you needed.
YETI DAYTRIP LUNCH BAG
Great for packing baby purees or small bottles. Or a sandwich. Dads get hungry too.
SKIP HOP GRAB & GO DOUBLE BOTTLE BAG
This insulated bag keeps up to two bottles warm or cold and includes a freezer pack. Also works for sippy cups and snacks. Keeps things chilled for hours. And it’s phthalate-free (magic words in baby gear speak).