Diaper Backpack Recs?

vtkgirl77

I think that I want to purchase a diaper backpack or a regular backpack that can be used for the kids. To date, I have been using the LLBean messenger style diaper bag. It's worked okay but now with 2 kids, I'll be carrying even more stuff around. Lately I've been putting DD's stuff in a cheap old backpack and I've found that it's much easier to be totally hands-free and to have everything on my back rather than lugging around a big bag on my hip. Plus, a backpack is easier to throw on the stroller handles.

So, any good recommendations? Bonus points if I can get it off Amazon (see my earlier post) or at Buy Buy Baby (since I have a gift card there).

kafunder

I just carry an old North Face backpack. It's not stylish but it makes me feel outdoorsy. It has tons of pockets and doesn't scream diaper bag (the two babies in the stroller do that for me!), so DH will carry it (although he has his own Oakley backpack that he carries).

Hey Jellisy

To be perfectly honest, I just use a regular backpack and bring a small cooler if I need it for a full day out.  I just couldn't be bothered having something else around.  More often than not, I just stuff the nursing cloth and a small changing pack in my purse if I am running out for errands.  We also keep diapers and wipes in both cars in case of emergency.  I keep a small Elmo backpack with DDs emergency toys in the car as well (crayons, coloring book, a stuffed animal a car and a sweatshirt).     

JKM416

I'm a sucker for JuJuBe bags, and they have several that are convertible between regular bags and backpacks (and maybe a few straight-up backpacks).  I love the compartmentalization and organization they have and how the insulated portions really keep things cold.  They're pricey but can be found for cheaper on ebay, Amazon, and on the JuJuBe "for sale" board on its website.

slukd79

My H uses the Short Haul Sherpa Diaper Backpack (I have a girly diaper bag for myself. Not sure why we got 2.):

https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Sherpa-Shorthaul-Black/dp/B0006DR1MQ

We like it and use it to transport "stuff" to and from daycare. It has nice compartments and includes a diaper changing pad. The only thing that might not work for you is the size. I easily fill it up with just one baby's items on the first day of the week to daycare: carton of milk, 4 pack of yogurt, straw cup, sippy cup, lovey, blanket... I think that's all!

vtkgirl77

Thanks ladies. I'll check out those recommendations. I may also go to Buy Buy Baby and look at what they have in stock. Sometimes it's nice to see the sizes and compartments in person.

bh2720

Kendra, I bought this one for Ken for his first father's day. (we call it the "Dad Bag" :-) )

https://www.amazon.com/Columbia-Baby-Backpack-Ripstop-Trim/dp/B0006B2Q9G 

I'm not really into diaper bags, so I don't know what features most people like, but this one has worked well for us. It comes with a good changing pad and there's a special pocket for it. And it has a separate insulated side compartment for bottles.

ETA: What the what??!! I just noticed the price in that Amazon link...and no, I did NOT pay $140 for that diaper bag. Whoa.

It's $50 at Babies R Us:

https://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3199292 

tracy042206

JKM416:

I'm a sucker for JuJuBe bags, and they have several that are convertible between regular bags and backpacks (and maybe a few straight-up backpacks).  I love the compartmentalization and organization they have and how the insulated portions really keep things cold.  They're pricey but can be found for cheaper on ebay, Amazon, and on the JuJuBe "for sale" board on its website.

 

I have one of these because I got it at a consignment sale for $15.  I gotta say I have more room in my regular backpack though.  I use the JuJuBe one to keep packed and ready at all times and the regular backpack I use when we go places like the zoo or the aquarium.

JKM416

tracy042206:

I have one of these because I got it at a consignment sale for $15.  I gotta say I have more room in my regular backpack though.  I use the JuJuBe one to keep packed and ready at all times and the regular backpack I use when we go places like the zoo or the aquarium.

Good to know - I don't have a backpack or convertible one because I can't stand wearing anything on my back.  I only speak from experience with the regular bags and how much I can cram into them and how they've lasted well over almost 4 years.  Maybe the backback styles aren't as user-friendly as the others.

kafunder

JKM416:

tracy042206:

I have one of these because I got it at a consignment sale for $15.  I gotta say I have more room in my regular backpack though.  I use the JuJuBe one to keep packed and ready at all times and the regular backpack I use when we go places like the zoo or the aquarium.

Good to know - I don't have a backpack or convertible one because I can't stand wearing anything on my back.  I only speak from experience with the regular bags and how much I can cram into them and how they've lasted well over almost 4 years.  Maybe the backback styles aren't as user-friendly as the others.

I think the JuJuBe backpacks aren't quite as spacious as the regular bags. I knew I wanted a backpack when I was pregnant since I'd need my hands free for two babies, and I looked at the JuJuBe backpacks, and they just didn't see big enough for one baby's stuff, let alone two babies/kids.

MrsKLS

We have this one https://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3199292

Columbia Trekster - $50. Had it for several years and it's still in good shape. Holds stuff I need for 2 kids. Has an insulated zipper area that can hold 2 bottles or bottle and some food. You'd be amazed to see how much I can get into this bag. Plus it can attach to your stroller or a cart.

geojody

while it's not a backpack, we use this https://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3199291 it's a Columbia messenger bag.  It has sooo many compartments and pockets, inside and out, it's bananas.  Plus it has clips on the inside to you can put it on your stroller like the Skip hops. Plus my hubby is OK with carrying this across his chest.  It was  little hard to find, but they had it at Babies R us in Woodbridge.  They were the ones that had the best selection.  I'm sure they must have this stuff elsewhere.  The Buy Buy Baby in Rockville is CRAZY huge, so you can test drive pretty much every diaperbag known to man.

pixieprincss

We have and love the Columbia Trekster. It is not at BBB. BBB only has uber expensive backpacks in the store. It is on Amazon, though. I got mine lightly used off eBay for a steal.

Heather6907

Another vote for the Columbia Trekster.  I use it for 2 under 2 and its been great.  I love the changing pad, insulated pockets, other pockets and its a good size without being too big.  I thought I got it for less than $50 though.  Maybe BBB with a coupon?