This page may contain affiliate links, which means that we may earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.
Here you can find the best diaper bag for travel so you can make the most of your trip!
The right diaper bag can make a world of a difference when you’re traveling with a baby or toddler. Traveling with a young child is hard enough! Make sure to set yourself up for success by getting a great diaper bag for your trip.
A good travel diaper bag should be comfortable, easy to organize, and sturdy. You also want it to be big enough to carry all of your baby or toddler travel essentials without feeling overly bulky.
In the course of our travels we’ve had diaper bags that we’ve loved and diapers bags that haven’t quite made the cut. And we’ve come to recognize some of the features that make a diaper bag ideal for travel.
It’s a huge pain to be on a trip and realize that it’s impossible to find anything in your diaper bag or that the straps dig into your shoulders. Or worse yet, to have your diaper bag break on you (this happened to me twice while traveling before I vowed to invest in better quality diaper bags)!
We’ve taken all of these factors into consideration in this article where we’ve reviewed some of the best diaper bags for travel! Read on to find the best option for your trip.
For more helpful travel items, see our list of baby travel essentials or our ultimate list of toddler travel essentials!
Best overall: BabbleRoo Diaper Bag Backpack
Best Stylish Diaper Bag for Travel: Freshly Picked Classic Diaper Bag
Best Budget Option: KiddyCare Diaper Bag Backpack
Best Tote Diaper Bag for Travel: Dikaslon Diaper Bag Tote
Best diaper bags for travel
There are a lot of diaper bag options for travel out there and it can be hard to know which one will work best. We’ve compiled this lists based off of our own personal experience and suggestions from other traveling parents. The list has a variety of options, from backpacks (my personal favorite), to messenger bags and totes, so you’re bound to find a bag that’s a great fit for your personal style!
KiddyCare Diaper Bag Backpack
The KiddyCare Diaper Bag Backpack is a popular travel diaper bag option because it’s budget-friendly but still provides some of the best features of a travel diaper bag. Although not overly large, this diaper bag is spacious enough to hold all of your baby and toddler travel essentials.
With 15 pockets, it’s easy to find a place for everything you might need for your baby or toddler. An insulated pocket allow you to keep milk cool (although it doesn’t fit larger bottles) and a side pocket with a slit provides easy access to wipes for diaper changes. There’s also a flap in the back that can be opened at the the bottom of the bag so you can easily access items stored there.
The bag comes with stroller clips and padded straps to turn the backpack into a cross-body bag for a different method of carry.
Product description:
- Size: 10.6”L x 8.3”W x 16.5”H
- Weight: 1.61 lbs
Pros
- Moderate price
- Many pockets
- Flap for access to bottom of pack
- Stroller clips
Possible drawbacks
- Bottle compartment can’t fit 8-9oz bottles
- No changing mat included
Skip Hop Greenwich Simply Chic Backpack
The Skip Hop Greenwich Diaper Bag Backpack offers a stylish and comfortable option for travel. Made of vegan leather, the bag is durable and easy to wipe clean. This is a large bag which can easily fit your baby or toddler travel essentials.
This diaper bag has nine pockets for storing baby items, including a large zippered main compartment and side pockets for bottles. It comes with a padded, wipe-clean changing mat in its own pocket. The compartment for the changing mat can also serve as a pocket for tablets and computers under 15 inches.
Straps can be adjusted up to 37 inches to fit most wearers. There’s also a top handle and stroller clips included with the bag.
Product description
- Size: 13”L x 9.25”W x 18.25”H
- Weight: 2.7 lbs
Pros
- Comes with changing mat
- Wipe-clean material
- Includes stroller clips
- Laptop pocket
Possible drawbacks
- Zipper can be hard to open
- No insulated pockets
Ruvalino Diaper Bag Backpack
The Ruvalino Diaper Bag Backpack is extremely popular with parents for it’s functional design and affordability. This bag is lightweight, comfortable to wear, and provides plenty of organization.
With two large compartments and sixteen pockets, there’s plenty of space for all of your diaper bag items. Some of the many pockets include a hidden parent pocket to store your personal items, insulated bottle pockets, and a large padded pocket for storing a laptop.
The bag comes with a mat for easy diaper changes on the go and padded, adjustable shoulder straps to provide a comfortable fit for any wearer.
Product description
- Size: 11.8″L x 7.9″W x 16.5″H
- Weight: 1.78 lbs
Pros
- Comes with changing mat
- Insulated pockets
- Padded laptop pocket
- Moderate price
- Wet wipes pocket
Possible drawbacks
- No stroller straps
Fawn Design Original Diaper Bag
Fawn Design bags are the trendy diaper bags that have been all the rage in recent years. Not only are they cute and convenient for everyday use, they also make a great option for a travel diaper bag as well.
The bag is made from vegan leather that is both stylish and easy to clean. The top opens in a half-circle, which provides a large opening to store and access items in the bag. There are a total of twelve pockets (six on the inside and six on the outside) for organizing your diaper bag essentials.
If you purchase the diaper bag bundle (available on Amazon), you can get the original diaper bag plus a changing mat, bottle holder, and pacifier case.
This multi-purpose bag can be worn as either a backpack or as a messenger bag, depending on how you prefer to carry it. There’s also a sturdy handle on top for a quick-grab option.
Product description:
- Size: 13.5”L x 7”W x 13”H
- Weight: 4 lbs
Pros
- Can be worn as a backpack or messenger bag
- Large top opening
- Wipe-clean material
Possible drawbacks
- Heavy
- High cost
Freshly Picked Women’s Convertible Classic Diaper Bag
The Freshly Picked Classic Diaper Bag is both stylish and practical, making it a great option for a travel diaper bag. The vegan leather material is attractive and easy to clean.
The top can be zipped shut, but also has a flap with a magnetic closure so you can easily close and open it without zipping. It can be worn as a backpack, purse, or crossbody bag, providing many carrying options.
Ten pockets provide plenty of places to store items for both child and parent. The bag has an electronics sleeve and can fit a laptop or tablet and an insulated pocket for bottles. Also included with the diaper bag is a nylon changing pad.
Product description:
- Size: 13″L x 7″W x 15″H
- Weight: 2.3 lbs
Pros
- Comes with changing pad
- Can be used as backpack or crossbody bag
- Wipe-clean material
- Insulated pocket
Possible cons
- High cost
Jujube BFF Diaper Bag Backpack
The Jujube BFF Diaper Bag is another great option for a travel backpack. The wide design prevents items from getting lost in the bottom of the bag and makes it easy to find what you’re looking for.
The bag has seven inside storage pockets as well as a zippered parent pocket and two insulated pockets on the outside. The parent pocket has a key strap and a soft pouch for glasses, as well as smaller pockets for a wallet and other small items.
The bag also comes with a memory foam changing mat in the back sleeve. Unlike many of the diaper mats that come with diaper bags, this one actually has quite a bit of padding, providing a comfortable surface for your baby wherever you are.
One of the nice features of this bag is that it is machine washable, making it a breeze to clean!
An adjustable, detachable strap can easily transform the bag into a messenger bag or tote. The straps are padded and adjustable for a comfortable fit.
We’ve taken this diaper bag with us on many trips and it has held up well over the years. It isn’t as large as some of the other diaper bag options, so it can be hard to fit all you need if you’re traveling with multiple children, but it is comfortable and easy to organize.
Product description
- Size: 14”L x 6.5″W x 12”H
- Weight: 2.8 lbs
Pros
- Machine washable
- Memory foam changing mat included
- Wide design easy for finding items
- Can be a backpack or messenger bag
- Insulated pockets
Possible cons
- High cost
- Smallish size
Miss Fong Diaper Bag Backpack
For a more budget-friendly bag that still looks sleek and fashionable, you might want to consider the Miss Fong Diaper Bag Backpack. The exterior is made of PU leather, while the interior is a waterproof nylon.
With 16 pockets, 8 inside and 8 on the exterior (2 of which are insulated), it’s easy to organize your diaper bag. The wide opening also makes it easy to locate items within the bag.
This bag can be worn as a backpack or messenger bag and comes with straps to attach it to a stroller. There’s also a waterproof changing pad included.
Product description:
- Size: 12.5”L x 6”W x 12”H
- Weight: 2.2 lbs
Pros
- Moderate price
- Waterproof changing pad included
- Stroller straps
- Insulated pockets
- Wipe-clean material
- Can be worn as a backpack or messenger bag
- Many pockets
BabbleRoo Diaper Bag Backpack
The BabbleRoo Diaper Bag Backpack is another more moderately priced back with a lot of helpful features. This bag provides lots of storage, with two main pockets, five insulated pockets, and many smaller pockets for organizing all your diaper bag needs.
A detachable pacifier pocket, stroller clips, and changing mat are included with the bag. There’s also a padded pocket for the changing pad which can also be used to store tablets and laptops up to 15.6 inches.
Adjustable, padded shoulder straps and a padded back panel provide extra comfort for the wearer.
Product description:
- Size: 12″L x 8″W x 16.5″H
- Weight: 2 lbs
Pros
- Insulated pockets
- Stroller clips
- Includes washable changing mat
- Detachable pacifier pocket
- Padded pocket for computer
Itzy Ritzy Boss Diaper Bag Backpack
The Itzy Ritzy Diaper Bag is a stylish bag with a the useful features you’d want in a diaper bag. Made with vegan leather, this diaper bag has ten interior and seven exterior pockets for seventeen total pockets. This includes a parent pocket, two insulated bottle pockets, and a pocket lined with felt for valuables.
Also included with the diaper bag are stroller clips and a changing mat. Rubber on the bottom of the bag allows you to easily wipe the bottom clean after setting it down.
With a spacious interior, lots of pockets for organizing, and a stylish design, this backpack makes a perfect travel diaper bag.
Product description
- Size: 10.5″L x 7″W x 18″H
- Weight: 2.5 lbs
Pros
- Changing mat included
- Insulated bottle pockets
- Rubber bottom for easy cleaning
- Stroller clips
Possible drawbacks
- High price tag
Dikaslon Diaper Bag Tote
If you prefer a tote style bag, the Dikaslon Diaper Bag Tote is a great option. This tote is spacious, accessible, and affordable.
Thirteen pockets provide places to store all of your baby or toddler gear and in the front is a parent pocket with a key loop to keep personal items. On each side is a large pocket secured with a magnetic enclosure. The main pocket opens wide with a two-way zipper closure to allow you to easily find items inside.
The bag comes with a changing mat and a detachable pacifier case. Also included is an adjustable shoulder strap to transform the bag into a messenger or crossbody bag. And on the back is a sleeve that can be used to secure your diaper bag to the handle of your luggage for easy, hands free travel.
You’ll find that this bag has plenty of space for your diaper bag essentials without feeling too bulky. The main drawback is that it does not have the option to wear it as a backpack. However if you prefer a tote or messenger bag, this is a great bag at a great price.
Product description
- Size: 17″L x 8″W x 12″H
- Weight: 2.3 lbs
Pros
- Includes changing mat
- Includes detachable pacifier pocket
- Luggage strap to secure to suitcase
- 3 insulated pouches
- Moderate price
- Can be used as messenger bag as well
Possible drawbacks
- No backpack option
Ruvalino Diaper Bag Tote
Another option for a diaper bag tote is the Ruvalino Diaper Bag Tote. This roomy bag features 15 pockets, including three insulated bottle holders and two parent pockets in the front with a key loop.
Included with the bag is a changing mat, stroller straps, and an adjustable shoulder strap to convert the tote to a messenger bag. The bag also has a sleeve on the bag which can be slid over a luggage handle to hold the bag in place while going through the airport.
The spacious interior and many pockets make this bag perfect for carrying all of your travel necessities and a neutral color palate make it easy to transfer between parents!
Product description
- Size: 16″L x 7.5″W x 11.8″H
- Weight: 2.4 lbs
Pros
- Changing pad included
- Can be worn as a messenger bag
- Insulated pockets
- Back sleeve to attach to luggage
- Includes stroller straps
Possible drawbacks
- No backpack option
Common Questions
What is a travel diaper bag?
A travel diaper bag is merely a bag that is used to carry your baby and toddler essentials while traveling. It doesn’t necessarily have to be a specifically designated diaper bag to get the job done, though often diaper bag specific bags have useful features that come in handy when traveling with kids.
For example, diaper bags often come with changing mats, insulated pockets for bottles, stroller straps, etc. And one of the most helpful features of a diaper bag is that they are typically designed with lots of pockets for storing small items and a top that opens wide so that you can easily find what you’re looking for.
We’ve traveled with a just regular backpack before and while it does work, it’s often not as convenient as a diaper bag when traveling with little kids. Diaper bags can make a trip run more smoothly by keeping diapers, wipes, and other necessities easily accessible.
What should I pack in my diaper bag when traveling?
When you’re traveling with little kids, there are some essentials that you’ll want to keep on hand in your diaper bag. The items that you’ll need will depend on that age of your child, as you’ll need different things when traveling with a baby vs a toddler. The list below should give you an idea of essential items you to consider packing in your diaper bag.
Diapers/wipes. Always bring more diapers than you think you’ll need. I typically pack 3 or 4 diapers when we’re out and about while traveling, just to make sure I’m never caught without. Travel can change a child’s bodily habits, so they might use more diapers than you would expect. Also make sure you have plenty of wipes. We love these compact wipes containers for travel.
Changing pad. A padded changing mat allows you to change your child on a soft, sanitary surface wherever you are. I’ve had many times where I’ve had to change my child on the floor or a counter when no changing station is available and I’m always glad to have a changing pad with me. Some diaper bags come with a mat, but if not consider purchasing one to keep in your bag.
Portable potty. If you have a newly potty trained child, a portable potty can be a very helpful thing to keep in your diaper bag. These seats can be placed on a toilet seat to create a sturdy, smaller seat for your child, allowing them to feel safer and more comfortable on a full-sized toilet. They also fold up compactly to fit in your diaper bag. See our list of the best travel potties for some ideas.
Snacks. Always keep some great snacks in your diaper bag to ward off the hangries while traveling. A hungry child is a grumpy child. Snacks also work perfectly as a distraction if your child is starting to meltdown and an activity to keep them entertained.
Snack catcher. To go with your snacks, keep a snack catcher on hand so your child can feed themselves independently without making a mess. This snack catcher is our favorite for travel because it folds down for compact storing when not in use.
Water bottle. It’s important for young children to stay hydrated during travel, so keep a water bottle close by and offer it to your child frequently.
Formula/bottles. For formula fed babies, you’ll need space for formula, bottles, etc.
Nursing cover. If you’re nursing your child, a nursing cover can prevent your child from getting distracted while eating (depending on your child, some babies hate eating under a nursing cover). I also love nursing covers for blocking out light while my child is sleeping in the baby carrier, car seat, or stroller. I’ve found that it helps my children to sleep a lot longer.
Change of clothes. I’ve had many experiences that have taught me to never be caught out and about without a change of clothes for my baby or toddler. Whether it’s an accident, an eating mishap, or a tumble in a mud puddle, it’s best to be prepared with an extra set of clothes to keep your child clean and dry.
Wet bag. Wet bags are useful for keeping dirty diapers if there isn’t a trash can nearby or wet and dirty clothes so that they don’t affect the other items in your diaper bag.
Bib. A waterproof bib is convenient to have on hand for when your child is eating while you’re out. Bibs help to keep your child and their clothes clean, sometimes allowing you to reuse outfits that don’t get too dirty.
Baby/toddler toys and activities. It’s always a good idea to have a couple of engaging toys or activities in your diaper bag that you can pull out when your child needs it. This is helpful in restaurants, museums, trains and buses, etc. and also works well to head off tantrums and meltdowns.
Your personal items. Be sure to choose a diaper bag that has a convenient place to keep your personal items (wallet, phone, chapstick, sunglasses), not just your child’s.
Does a diaper bag count as a carry on?
On most airlines if you’re traveling with a baby or toddler a diaper bag is allowed and does not count as your personal item. Typically one diaper bag is permitted per child.
Double-check the airline before you leave to make sure you know the rules for your specific carrier.
What to look for in a travel diaper bag
Bag type
There are several different styles of diaper bags, including backpacks, crossbody bags, and tote bags.
Although any of these are valid options, in my opinion a diaper bag backpack is typically the best choice for travel. A backpack distributes the weight of the bag more evenly, making it better for your body in the long run. It also tends to be easier to use when chasing a toddler or wearing a baby in a baby carrier.
However, some people like the crossbody style bag to have easier access to items when they need them and to have your bag where you can see it to prevent theft.
If you want the best of both worlds, many diaper bags also include straps to turn a backpack into a messenger bag. It can be convenient to have the option to have either a backpack or crossbody bag, depending on the situation that you find yourself in.
Comfort
Given that you’ll likely spend a lot of time wearing your diaper bag during your trip, it’s important to find one that’s comfortable.
If you’re anything like me, you’ll probably end up packing a lot into your diaper bag, which can get heavy in a hurry. Padded straps and an ergonomic design can go a long way towards making your experience much more enjoyable.
Quality
When you’re getting a diaper bag for travel, you’ll want to make sure that it is sturdy and well made. I’ve had diaper bags break while traveling and trust me, it is not a fun experience. In my opinion, it’s worth it to spend a bit more on a quality diaper bag that’s going to last as opposed to a cheaper bag that could potentially give out during your trip.
Organizational features
An important factor to consider when purchasing a travel diaper bag is the pockets and storage capability of the bag. A bag that has many pockets and storage compartments is easier to organize than a bag with one large interior pocket.
When you’re traveling you want to be able to quickly and easily find the items that you’re looking for without spending a lot of time rummaging around in your bag.
This might mean more storage compartments or a bag that’s wide rather than deep. What’s important is that you know where things are and can easily get to them.
Size
The size of the bag you need will be dependent on the age of your child, how many children you need to pack for, etc. When you’re traveling, a diaper bag that’s a bit too big is typically better than one that is too small, so make sure you’re getting a bag that can adequately fit your essential items. If your bag is too tightly packed it can be challenging to find things and can put strain on your bag.
Consider what you’ll need for your flight (if you’re flying) as well as daytrips and outings. I prefer a bag that can also be used to carry all of my child’s snacks and activities for the plane so that they are easily accessible.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right travel diaper bag can greatly improve your comfort and convenience while traveling.
Trips with young kids can feel very hectic, but it helps to have quick access to the things you need to help things go more smoothly. A great diaper bag can make things that much easier!
A good travel diaper bag is sturdy, comfortable, big enough to fit your diaper bag essentials, and easy to organize. With this list of the best diaper bags for travel, you’re well on your way to finding the best diaper bag for your travel!
Other posts you might be interested in:
The Best Travel Toys for 2 Year Olds!
The Best Portable Toddler Beds for Travel!
How to Get a Toddler to Sleep on the Plane (Tips that work!)
