Best Backpacks for Moms – A Comfortable Way to Carry the Load

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Last Updated on January 30, 2025 by Ariana Svenson

So you’re looking for the best backpacks for moms or the best mom backpack?  Then you are probably thinking along the same lines as me – mommy backpack + kids = hands free!  Whether you are traveling or at home, with toddlers or older kids, there’s no doubt that using a backpack makes it so much easier to carry the kids’ stuff around – leaving both your hands free to hold little hands while crossing roads, or to push the pram or stroller.

So let’s explore which are the best backpacks for moms!

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So What Exactly is a ‘Mom Backpack’?

I know, right?  It’s as if moms are a breed unto their own, that aren’t as smitten by gorgeous handbags as the rest of womankind.  Or are immune to looking stylish when going out and about!  But in a way, this can be spot-on.

When you become a mom, you slowly but surely begin to bypass beauty and style, seeking out solid, hands free practicality instead.  Instead of how beautiful your new bag is to look at, you may well rave about the handy pockets, useful drink holders and more.

In short, you’re looking for a hands-free backpack that will carry all the things you and the kids need, but one that doesn’t look like a diaper bag.  Instead, it will be carried over your shoulders!

A note on the latest backpacks is in order here.  Backpacks have undergone something of a revolution in recent times, and one result is that they are more stylish to behold than ever before.  The typical backpack for moms has also become increasingly functional – as well as more attractive.  Useful features included with some products include lots of pockets of varying sizes to ensure you can carry everything around with ease.

Certain backpacks also now come with convertible straps.  This means you can carry your bag as a purse with short handles, a tote bag, or of course as a backpack.

Best Backpacks for Moms Comparison Table

Name/Brand	Wear As	Key Features	Price
Freshly Picked	Purse, Crossbody, Backpack	9 colors, 10 pockets, stylish looks	Click Here
Miss Fong	Purse, Tote, Backpack	8 colors, 16 pockets, leather effect	Click Here
Pincnel	Purse, Tote, Backpack	12 colors, good value, stand-out design	Click Here
Himawari	Purse, Backpack	37 colors, USB charging, great value	Click Here
Park Baby Co	Stroller Bag, Backpack	Unisex, lots of pockets, universal style	Click Here
Herschel	Backpack, Grab Bag	Traveler & tech friendly, 23L, lots of options	Click Here
BabyRoo	Stroller Bag, Backpack, Grab Bag	8 colors, Key & pacifier holders, tech sleeve	Click Here
Hodar Floral	Stroller Bag, Backpack, Grab bag	USB port, wet & dry areas, 33L	Click Here
Hap Tim	Stroller Bag, Backpack, Grab Bag	Double decker, 18 pockets, waterproof	Click Here
Itzy Ritzy Mini	Backpack, Grab Bag	Vegan leather, cool designs, compact	Click Here
PaperClip Willow	Messenger Bag, Backpack, Stroller Bag	Stylish, integral changing station, eco-friendly	Click Here
Mominside Mini	Stroller Bag, Backpack, Grab Bag	Compact, 11 pockets, wipe-clean vegan leather	Click Here
Cubs & Bubs	Stroller Bag, Backpack, Grab Bag	Great price, unisex look, changing mat included	Click Here

 

What to Look for in Mom Backpacks

There are various features to consider when seeking the best backpack purse for moms.  These include the material, capacity, pockets, longevity, straps and any included accessories

Capacity

One of the first things to consider when looking for a mom backpack purse is how much you need to carry.  Some bags listed here can hold over 30 liters, while others are more compact.

Think about what you need to take with you – which can depend on how long you’re out or away for.  If you carry a laptop, for example, then you will need a bigger bag!  The same applies if you often take the kids on picnics, need to carry a breast pump, or want a travel bag for a week away.

Pockets

The best backpacks for mums are often those with plenty of compartments and pockets.  The number in each bag varies widely, so think about what you need those areas for.

If you’re dealing with pregnancy as well as a small child, for instance, do you want to keep snacks or drinks for two or more of you cool during summer?  Do you need a tablet or laptop sleeve?  What about a secure zipped compartment, or outer pockets for easy access?

Material

The backpack purses listed here come with an assortment of finishes, ranging from canvas-style fabric to vegan leather.  The latter is probably the easiest to keep clean, but can be more rigid than a canvas backpack.

The bags designed specifically for parents tend to have a wipe-clean finish both inside and out.

Accessories

Some baby, child and toddler bags for mums come with additional extras.  Quite a few come with a matching changing mat, and one even has a detachable dummy or pacifier pouch.  One is decorated with a pompom – not exactly a practical touch, but it does help to make the bag look pretty and not quite so mom-like!

Longevity

No one wants a bag that falls apart after a month!  This is why I’ve picked out only those bags with great reviews.  Something else I’ve avoided is picking bags with obviously kiddie type logos, as that gives the game away completely.

By choosing a bag that looks as little like a diaper backpack as possible, you can get wear out of it for years to come.  Even if the kids are teenagers.

Straps

There’s a few things to think about when you’re looking at the straps on a mom backpack. Firstly, the shoulder straps. Are they padded, and adjustable? Both of these will contribute to your comfort and are particularly important when you might use the bag for prolonged periods of time.

Also, what other straps or handles does the bag have? What there is might mean you can carry the bag over your shoulder, or use the stroller straps supplied to go hands-free. Maybe you can carry it cross-body style too.

We know looking for the best backpacks for moms, or even just a great mom bag can be challenging.  Check out our other resources as well.

 

Best Bags for Moms with Toddlers

The Best Beach Bag for Moms

Best Bags for Moms | Finding the Right Mom Bag for Your Busy Life

13 of the Best Backpacks for Moms

 

Freshly Picked Mom Bag Backpack

Best Leather Mom Backpack

While it’s sold as a backpack diaper bag, this Freshly Picked backpack looks nothing like the usual nappy bag.  With a leather-look finish and available in 9 colors, it looks stylish and can be worn as a purse, cross body bag or backpack.  Both the lining and the outer can be wiped clean quickly and it comes with gold toned easy glide zip fastenings.

There are 10 pockets in total, including a main compartment for bigger items and a sleeve for storing a device like a tablet safely. A portable changing pad comes with it and there are even metal feet on the bottom to keep it off a dirty floor.

Based in Utah, Freshly Picked was established by a mom who wanted to supply the kind of child-friendly products she could never find.  This is a great pick or one of the best backs for moms.

Pros:

• 9 colors
• 10 pockets
• 3 ways to wear

Cons:

• Not the cheapest option

Click here to view this Freshly Picked backpack

Miss Fong Leather Look Backpack

Best Mom Handbag

If you want a more affordable option than the Freshly Picked product, I think this one offers great value for money.  It looks stylish and comes in a choice of 8 colors, all of which would complement just about any outfit.  This one has backpack straps, an adjustable shoulder strap and a grab handle on the top.

It also has an insulated bottle pocket for keeping drinks warm or cool.  In total there are 16 pockets inside and out, so it’s easy to find a place for everything.  It’s simple to wipe the interior and exterior clean thanks to the repellent finish of the mock leather and waterproof nylon finishes.

Pros:

• 8 colors
• 16 pockets
• 3 ways to wear

Cons:

• Lesser known brand

Click here to view this Miss Fong Backpack on Amazon

Click here to view this Miss Fong Backpack on eBay

Pincnel Anti-Theft Backpack

Best Anti-Theft Mom Bag

This option from Pincnel also has a leather look finish, but the design is rather different from the 2 products detailed above.  It comes in a dozen color options.  The bag has been designed to combat theft, and has plenty of space for devices, books, snacks, toys and so on.

This is definitely a contender as the best mom backpack for those on a budget. There are three ways to carry it – via the backpack straps, grab handles or the long, adjustable shoulder strap.  It even comes complete with a cute matching pom pom!  We think this is one of the best backpacks for moms.

Pros:

• 12 colors
• 3 ways to wear
• Stand-out styling

Cons:

• Not a mom-specific design

Click here to view this Pincnel Backpack on Amazon

Click here to view this Pincnel Backpack on eBay

 

Himawari Laptop Backpack

Best Laptop Mom Bag

Another great option for those seeking something that doesn’t resemble a typical mom bag at all – and this one has an integral laptop sleeve.  The main compartment is easy to access via the long zipper and there’s a range of front, side and inner pockets.  Moms are spoiled for choice with this one that comes in over 30 color options.

With a waterproof eco-friendly canvas finish, it’s a practical backpack too.  There are twin grab handles which are great when on the go. This is also the ideal pick for those who carry electronic devices, as there’s a USB charging port for powering up via your own battery pack.

Pros:

• 37 colors
• Great value
• USB charging enabled

Cons:

• Less pockets than others
• Only 2 ways to wear

Click here to view this Himawari Backpack

 

Parker Baby Co Backpack

Best Unisex Mom Bag

This all-purpose product is certainly one of the contenders as the best backpack for moms.  The ‘birch bag’ comes in gray or cream and gray, and is made for busy parents.  With a unisex look, dads shouldn’t mind using it, either!

There are insulated pockets for bottles, plus a selection of other compartments including a built-in laptop sleeve.  Designed as a diaper backpack, this comes with must-haves like stroller straps and a larger than average travel changing pad.

Developed in the US, this product from the Parker Baby Co is a great all-rounder for busy parents on the move.  We consider the Parker Baby Co one of the best backpacks for moms anywhere.

Pros:

• Unisex style
• Multiple compartments
• Looks nothing like a diaper bag

Cons:

• Limited colors

Click here to view this Parker Baby Backpack on Amazon

Click here to view this Parker Baby Backpack on eBay

 

Herschel Settlement Backpack

Best Regular Backpacks for Mom

If the best mom travel backpack for you is one that’s designed for travelers rather than parents, then it’s worth taking a look at this Herschel bag.  Whatever your style there’s a color or pattern to suit you, from rainbow tie-dye or tropical hibiscus or neon pink and black or denim blue.

This mom bag is tech friendly, with a fleece-lined laptop sleeve, and has a 23 liter capacity for carrying everything from large looks and a laptop to snack supplies and spare clothing.  It’s also one that dads should be content to use.

If you want a spacious travel style bag that will last until the kids are tweens or even teens, this could be the one.

Pros:

• Numerous designs
• 23 liter capacity
• Made to last

Cons:

• No parent-specific features

Click here to view the Herschel Settlement Backpack

Check out the Herschel Baby Settlement Sprout backpack in my mom travel backpacks guide

Best Backpack for Moms with Toddlers

BabbleRoo Backpack

Best Toddler Mom Backpack

These diaper bags come in 7 plain shades plus a cool blue camo design.  Although they are made for moms and dads, again no one would ever know that you’re carrying a nappy bag around.

There are lots of features that make this one of our picks in the category of best backpacks for moms with toddlers.  It has stroller as well as backpack straps, and even has a detachable pacifier or dummy holder.

The compartments are great and include insulated pockets plus ones for wipes and portable devices.  It also comes with a changing mat.

Pros:

• 8 colors
• Stroller straps
• Key loop & pacifier holder

Cons:

• Budget looks

Click here to view this BabbleRoo Backpack

Floral Diaper Bag Backpack

Best Tech Mom Backpack

With a classic floral print fabric, this is another great value contender as the best backpack for moms of toddlers.  It has a 33 liter capacity and 16 compartments of various shapes and sizes.  Impressive features of this one include the USB port, wet and dry areas and stroller straps.  It also has 2 large grab handles to the top as well as backpack straps.

A laptop compartment, insulated pockets and breathable back make this a practical and comfortable choice for any parent.  As long as they like florals, that is!

Pros:

• Wet & dry areas
• 33 liter capacity
• USB port

Cons:

• Only 1 color

Click here to view this floral diaper bag backpack

Paperclip Willow Diaper Backpack

Best Integrated Changing Station

The Paperclip Willow is among the best mommy backpacks when it comes to style.  It also features a built-in changing station, which folds out in a flash.  This is great for on-the-go moms – or dads – who appreciate function as well as form.  It even has integral side walls for privacy and to stop your baby from rolling out so easily.

This one can also be worn as a messenger bag if you like, making it more versatile.  You also have somewhere to store soiled diapers or clothing as there’s a dedicated wet compartment.  There’s also handy zippered and open side pockets for those things you need to grab quickly.

All Paperclip bags are sustainable, too, which we love.  They’re made from eco-friendly materials including vegan leather and recycled plastic.  If you want the best mommy backpack to see you through several children, then think about buying this one.

Pros:

• Super stylish
• Sustainable materials
• Integral changing station

Cons:

• Relatively expensive

Click here to view the Paperclip Willow changing backpack

Mominside Mini Diaper Backpack

Best Compact Mom Backpack

Not everyone agrees that the best mom backpacks are the biggest ones. The best backpack for a mom who doesn’t have too much to carry might be a mini one, as it’s much less bulky. This Momisnide one fits the bill here, and like some others listed here, it doesn’t look like a mom bag at all.

Cute tassels to the zippers and a choice of smart black or stylish tan tick the fashion boxes. The vegan leather is also really easy to wipe clean, and stroller straps are included so you can clip it straight on. One of the best features of this mom bag is the fact that there’s a place for everything. You get insulated bottle pockets, a theft-proof phone compartment, a tablet sleeve and a key holder.

In all you get 11 pockets with this compact mom backpack, and it has so many other uses too.

Pros:

• Compact design
• 11 compartments
• Wipe-clean vegan leather

Cons:

• Not so much space

Click here to view the Mominside mini backpack

 

 

3 Best Backpack for Mums in Australia

This is the first of the featured products listed specifically for those seeking a mum backpack in Australia.  While all the items can be shipped worldwide, sometimes you want a quick delivery as well as easier returns.

 

Hap Tim Backpack

This Hap Tim backpack can normally be delivered with a few days.  It comes in a choice of 5 colors and designs.  Some of these should appeal to dads as much as mums too.

There are 18 pockets in total and the bag has a 25 litre capacity.  Stroller straps mean it can be carried without you bearing any weight at all, or you can use it as a backpack to stay hands-free.  It also has a double decker design for dividing up different items, which is ideal for picnics.

Pros:

• Double decker compartments
• Tough waterproof fabric
• 18 pockets

Cons:

• Relatively plain

Click here to view this Hap Tim Backpack on Amazon

Click here to view this Hap Tim Backpack on eBay

 

Itzy Ritzy Mini Backpack

If you prefer something more compact, this could be the best backpack for mums in Australia.  This vegan leather one really does look absolutely nothing like a diaper bag, yet it comes with bottle pockets and a changing pad.  There are 4 plain colors, a leopard print or a ‘coffee and cream’ option with tan trim and monochrome herringbone print. A useful addition is the rubber feet which let keep it upright when you put it down.

This hands-free backpack is great when you don’t need to carry quite so much, and no one would ever suspect you were taking a diaper bag along with you!  This is one of the best backpacks for moms.

Pros:

• Cool designs
• Vegan leather
• Compact & lightweight

Cons:

• Limited space

Click here to view this Itzy Ritzy Backpack

Cubs & Bubs Nappy Backpack

This stylish Cubs and Bubs backpack is available for fast delivery in Australia.  It looks good, has great reviews and is well-priced.  What more could you wish for?

A changing mat is also supplied with this Cubs and Bubs backpack for moms.  The black color will go with anything, and is equally suitable for moms or dads when you don’t want to buy a bag each and might switch around.

In addition to the backpack straps, it has a padded grab handle and a pair of stroller straps.  There’s also a great range of side and front outer pockets, and the back panel is breathable to cope with summer heat.  It’s a top-rated all-rounder for Australian parents, available at a low price.

Pros:

• Great price
• Unisex looks
• Changing mat included

Cons:

• No choice of colors

Click here to view this Cubs & Bubs diaper backpack

 

Which Mom Backpack will you Buy?

I hope this guide has helped you pick out the ideal mom backpack to suit your needs.  There is certainly plenty of choice when it comes to style, budget and practicality.  As a mom of 3 who often travels with the kids, I know from years of first-hand experience that having the best backpacks for moms can make life on the go so much simpler!

What are your suggestions?  Tell us what your favorite backpacks for moms are below!

Looking for other recommendations for moms?  Check out some of our other posts below:

Best Bags for Moms | Finding the Right Mom Bag for your Busy Life

Best Swim Baby Wrap | Why you Need a Water Baby Carrier

The Best Women’s Hiking Boots Australia

Like It> Pin It> Best Backpacks for Moms | The Most Comfortable Way to Carry the Load

 

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