large diaper bag advice!

ateach · February 2014

I am a self-proclaimed over packer! I like to have everything conveniently at hand in my diaper bag. Currently, I have the Ju Ju Be BFF. I love all the carrying options and generally all my things fit in it, but I am not organized enough to love it. I end up stuffing everything down in the main compartment while on the go with my 13 month old. I also have a Vera Bradley Mom's Day Out, which I use for quick trips just in and out of places. I like that that bag can be messenger style and it is so light weight. I end up over stuffing it as well and can't zip it or carry extra things in my hands. I am a mess.

I have been on a search for the perfect diaper bag. I am hoping there is a magic option out there, so I am looking for advice. I am not willing to spend more than $300, and really that is only for the ultimate diaper bag. I'd rather keep it around $100.

Here is what I am looking for:

1) BIG (bigger than the BFF)

2) Multiple carry options (at least 2: shoulder/messenger/backpack)

3) LARGE easy to access divided sections of the bag (lot of little pockets don't get used by me)

4) If possible, light weight- the BFF is so heavy even when empty!

The Skip Hop Grand Central seems perfect for me in every way but it doesn't have a messenger or backpack option. UGH! I am also considering the Skip Hop Chelsea, but the pockets aren't laid out as conveniently as the Grand Central.

Any awesome bags out there?

On a side note- any advice for keeping a diaper bag neat?

THANKS!

Seakernal · February 2014

I have the Timi & Leslie Charlie bag and I love it. I used it for my son and will use it for both kids when my little girl arrives. I've never had an issue with it being too small to hold everything I need, and I like that it has a few large pockets to help keep things organized. You can carry it as a shoulder bag or cross body. Good luck!

https://www.shoptimiandleslie.com/Charlie-black.aspx#.Uu718vaJ8z0

AKB090609 · February 2014

Check out this one, it may help with your organization issues: https://www.amazon.com/Skip-Hop-Forma-Diaper-Peacock/dp/B00H4E9WLS/ref=sr_1_24?ie=UTF8&qid=1391396991&sr=8-24&keywords=skip+hop+diaper+bag

Or this one from vb: https://www.verabradley.com/product/Category/Mom-and-Baby/Convertible-Baby-Bag/1001980/defaultColorVariantId/184208/c/638/sc/643/p/1001980.uts?fromSearch=1

AKB090609 · February 2014

As far as keeping things neat use the pockets for other items I use large ziplock bags, they kept like things together and prevent spills. They were also nice to have for emergencies.

FmrAFBrat · February 2014

I have an OiOi Carry All bag that is perfect for 2 kids. It comes with an extra strap so it can be carried like either a messenger bag with the extra strap or on your shoulder like a purse without it. It's very lightweight compared to my Timi & Leslie...but I'd guess if would depend on if you chose a leather material or another fabric.

OiOi also has messenger bags & backpacks...some styles are pricey but last. I've had the carry all for over 2 years.

PinkLillyLover · February 2014

I have a Marc Jabobs diaper bag. I like it the looks more like a big purse than a diaper bag.

https://shop.nordstrom.com/s/marc-by-marc-jacobs-preppy-nylon-eliz-a-baby-diaper-bag/3396934?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=Black&resultback=7100&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-searchresults-_-1_18_D

ebp913 · February 2014

Have you watched any packing videos? I didn't love my BFF at first but watching some and taking pointers for what worked for me was very helpful. I have 1 JJB Quick with diapers and wipes, a stacking snack container and then other non essentials in other pockets.

dragossoul84 · February 2014

I just bought the Petunia Pickle Bottom Weekender their Spring line just launched and you get a free gift with purchase and free shipping

ateach · February 2014

Thanks for all your thoughts! I checked all these out and came up with a list of contenders. I posted a new thread with them.

And yes ebp, I watched some videos and I probably could make the JuJuBe work, but I feel like it is just not a good match for me. I often want to easily toss things in and out of the bag and the zipper just doesn't work for that. I can't seem to get it organized to my liking.

headgear03 · February 2014

look into sugarbooger bags they are amazing. The bags really help to keep any bag you use oreganized. I have the ppb weekender which i love but you want something a bit more versitile.

whoberry · February 2014

PinkLillyLover said:

I have a Marc Jabobs diaper bag. I like it the looks more like a big purse than a diaper bag.

https://shop.nordstrom.com/s/marc-by-marc-jacobs-preppy-nylon-eliz-a-baby-diaper-bag/3396934?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=Black&resultback=7100&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-searchresults-_-1_18_D

@pinklillylover How do you like your bag? What color did you get? I ordered one the other day but sent it back because I didn't like the color. I was going to exchange it for another color but then I saw something else I liked, but it's more casual. I was afraid I would not like the lack of interior pockets.

whoberry · February 2014

Have you looked at the classic diaper bag at Pottery Barn Kids?

I checked it out in person the other day it was HUGE. Has 3 large divided sections and two exterior pockets on the ends. It zipped closed and was really light weight, but only has 2 carry options- shoulder strap or short straps.

LadyMacaron · February 2014

I just bought the chelsea and I love it! I am a FTM, so I brought two of my Mama friends to help and they gave it two thumbs up for organization. It's big, it's pretty, it's easy to clean, and there are lots of pockets.

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large diaper bag advice!

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IF, 5 losses, 1 son, 1 on the way.

IF, 5 losses, 1 son, 1 on the way.

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