Last Updated on January 30, 2025 by Ariana Svenson
When you’re looking to travel as a mom with a toddler or baby, finding the right bag is more than only looking for the cutest purse or somewhere to store your lip gloss. Those things are important, sure, but for the busy mom on the go, there are definitely more than a few items to store in your perfect bag!
The best bags for moms with toddlers have lots of room, ideally with pockets inside and easy access to diapers, toys, water bottles and baby bottles, and who knows what else! However, there are so many bags out there that it can feel a bit overwhelming. This article is here to help you narrow down to the best bag for toddler moms – that suits you.
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My personal experience
It’s a pretty exciting moment when you suddenly transition from having a baby to a toddler in the house! Though that excitement sometimes turns to horror, depending on how quickly those little legs really start to move.
With toddler-dom comes a whole new learning curve regarding what you need to carry around on a daily basis for the little person. Bottles will have been replaced by snacks, and copious nappies and wipes might need to be replaced by a few changes of clothes because you know, they seem to get messy all the time.
Toys and activities become increasingly important as your little one is really on the go and it’s becoming harder to keep their attention for more than a few seconds. In short – having the right bag is vitally important – plus knowing where things are in a jiffy is vitally important.
As the mom of a toddler you might be getting more sleep than when they were a baby. However, you will be more exhausted than ever as you are constantly on the go, keeping up with their wide eyed curiosity for the world – and their determined exploration of the world.
Therefore, keeping things practical and easy to carry is going to be just as important as when you had a baby!
Best Bags for Moms with Toddlers Comparison Table
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| Brand | Wear As | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| BabbleRoo | Backpack | Change pad, detachable pacifier case, 2 main compartments with 5 insulated pockets. | Click Here |
| Mama Bear | Tote Bag | adjustable shoulder strap, padded laptop compartment, spacious lined main compartments, 2 bottle sections, | Click Here |
| Chelsea & Cole | Cross-body Bag | 6 pockets in 2 separate compartments, can be used as a packing cube within your diaper bag. | Click Here |
| Mashi | Backpack | 18 pockets, spacious main area, waterproof | Click Here |
| Skip Hop | Backpack | Designer, 2 insulated side pockets, cushioned shoulder straps, cushioned changing pad | Click Here |
| Itzy Ritzy | Backpack | Faux leather, vegan leather changing pad, 8 compartments | Click Here |
| Skip Hop | Cross-body Shoulder Bag | XL size, cushioned changing mat | Click Here |
| ManCro | Backpack | Anti-theft, insulated pockets, large capacity | Click Here |
| MomCozy | Stroller Bag Diaper Bag | 2 temperature controlled areas, multi-functional partitions, versatile | Click Here |
| Columbia | Backpack | Durable, lightweight and spacious, Therma-Flect technology for bottle storage, 8 pockets | Click Here |
| Michael Kors | Tote | Designer looks, durable saffiano leather, generous size | Click Here |
| Travelon | Cross-body Bag | Secure, waterproof, lots of storage space | Click Here |
| Bebe | Wheel Along Bag | Perfect for air travel, lots of space | Click Here |
| Miss Fong | Stroller Bag Backpack | Vegan leather, stylish, 11 pockets, small size | Click Here |
Types of Bag for Toddler Moms
There are lots of different baby bags for moms, from regular diaper bags to designer vegan leather purses and everything in between. The four main types of bags for mums with babies are:
Shoulder Bags
These are bags with a shoulder strap to hold it in place. A shoulder bag is often quite long and can also sometimes be worn as a cross body bag for extra security.
These are often larger bags with easy access on the go as they are hands-free and always by your side. They’re great bags for moms with toddlers, but be careful of too much weight on one shoulder! Especially when a little hand is pulling on the other hand all the time!
Backpacks
They come in all variations, from a backpack purse to a large backpack with many different compartments.
Backpacks come with a shoulder strap for each side and are carried behind you. Many also come with stroller straps that make them great travel bags. They are probably among the best carry-on bag for travelling with toddlers. They give you both hands free!
Tote Bags
A tote bag can be the best handbag for moms on the go and a perfect purse for day-to-day needs.
They’re often made of canvas or faux leather and either has a loose shoulder strap or a handle to hold or loop over your elbow. They’re also a great purse to carry on looped over the stroller handles thanks to their convenient size, allowing hands-free movement.
Diaper Bags
Diaper bags come in many different styles. Unlike other bags, they are specifically designed mom bags for moms with toddlers.
These can be crossbody bags, backpacks, tote bags, or shoulder bags. Also, a nappy bag is unique amongst other mom bags in its many compartments designed specifically for baby gear, like a changing mat.
Best Bags for Moms Resource Guides
We all know that being a mom can exhausting. So, if you are a busy mom like I am, check out these other posts. If you are truly interested in finding the best bag for moms here are our other guides.
Best Bags for Moms | Finding the Right Mom Bag for your Busy Life
Best Backpacks for Moms | The Most Comfortable Way to Carry the Load
14 Best Bags for Moms with Toddlers
I’ve scoured the internet to find just what the best bags for moms with toddlers might be. Everyone has different needs, whether travelling for a day or a few weeks, by car or in the air, with a toddler or a newborn. This is why I’ve chosen fourteen of the best travel bags for moms with toddlers for you to choose from.
Best Overall: BabbleRoo Nappy Changing Backpack
This stylish backpack is my pick for the best bag for travelling with toddlers. It’s a diaper bag and a mom backpack that does it all. Since it’s hands-free, it’s a great backpack for hiking with your little ones. Also, a good choice for the best bag for air travel with toddlers since it keeps everything in one place.
As well as coming in eight colours to choose from, this bag has lots of room, buggy clips, insulated pockets. It has two main compartments so you can carry everything you need for both you and the little one. There’s even a detachable pacifier case, and a changing pad included. It’s very easy to keep this bag clean with just a wipe!
Pros:
- Versatile – can be used as a backpack, a hand carry bag, or attached with stroller straps
- Waterproof
- Lots of space and insulated pockets
Cons:
- It can become a little heavy when all pockets are used
Shop for BableRoo here on Amazon
Mama Bear Tote Bag – Best Tote Bag
These tote bags come in three styles depending on your needs – Lexie (small), Tessa (medium), and LouLou (large). They’re some of the best totes for moms and the best tote bags for travel! They’re stylish, far from your typical “mom purse”. They are some of the best bags for moms looking to travel a little lighter. Not only that, they’re made by a small business!
The LouLou style comes with a padded laptop compartment, two side pockets for bottles. It also has a large zippered main compartment, a front pocket and several other compartments, and an adjustable shoulder strap. This makes it a great tote bag for regular travel. Even the Lexie has great storage, with a lined spacious main compartment and a large zipper pocket on the front.
Pros:
- Sturdy for regular trips back and forth
- Lots of space for essentials
- Comfortable to carry
Cons:
- No insulated pouch
Look here for current prices and to shop
Best Crossbody Bag
This is among the best crossbody bags around! The bag looks like the opposite of a mom purse with its sleek studded design and vegan leather outer shell. It’s a cross-body bag that looks like it was made for a night on the town, but inside is a stellar nappy bag! For us, it’s the best purse around in a cross-body style from all the available purses for moms with toddlers.
The bag contains a “mom” section and a “baby” section so that you can carry all essentials for both of you! It has six pockets and comes with its own easy-wipe changing mat that conveniently fits in the bag. It’s definitely the best crossbody bag for moms on the go, whether for a long journey or a trip to the store.
Pros:
- Stylish vegan leather design
- Space for both mom and baby to carry their things
- Small and easy to carry
Cons:
- No room for most bottles
Check here to shop the Double Take Cross Body Bag
Mashi Diaper Bag – Best Diaper Bag
Available in nine colours and at an amazing price! This mom backpack is a diaper bag with a difference. As well as a spacious main area, this backpack contains eighteen pockets, including several side pockets for bottles and more. This bag also comes with something specifically for mom and dad: a USB charging port!
This bag is definitely amongst the best travel bags for families and one of the best day-to-day backpacks for moms with toddlers. The insulated exterior pockets of this diaper bag are designed to neatly fit bottles or a small sippy cup. The interior has space for everyday needs.
Pros:
- Great storage space for all of your toddler’s needs, even for multiple kids
- Good size for easy carrying.
- Waterproof
Cons:
- Doesn’t come with a changing mat.
Click here to shop the Mashi Diaper Bag
Skip Hop Diaper Bag – Best Toddler Mom Bag with Insulated Bottle Pockets
This bag combines being one of the best designer purses for moms with toddlers and being amongst the best mom backpacks out there! This is one of the best bags for moms with toddlers, especially thanks to its two insulated side pockets that will keep bottles warm or cool as needed.
It’s a lightweight and spacious bag with good solid cushioned shoulder straps, stroller straps, and two packing cubes to make organization easier than ever before. A cushioned changing pad is included with the bag, and that compartment can be used as a safe place to carry a laptop.
Pros:
- Convienent organization
- Attractive style
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Shorter straps make it harder for taller parents to carry
Click here to purchase the Skip Hop Diaper Bag
Itzy Ritzy Mini Diaper Bag – Best Faux Leather Toddler Mom Bag
Available in eight fun colours and styles, this attractive faux leather backpack is the best backpack for moms with toddlers who don’t want to sacrifice style. It has an easy grab handle and rubber feet for convenience, as well as a vegan leather changing pad for extra comfort for baby and easy cleaning for mom!
The bag contains eight total compartments, four inner and four outer, and can be carried by the handle or worn as a backpack. The rubber feet keep the bag protected when it is set down. There’s even a little pocket at the front to store your phone, keys, and more.
Pros:
- Stylish and attractive
- Comfortable and durable
- Good space for storage
Cons:
- Smaller pockets than other options
Shop the Itzy Ritzy Mini Diaper Bag here
Skip Hop XL Duo – Best Shoulder Bag
Though a little pricier than some of the other bags on the list, this is among the best bags for moms with toddlers who need a little extra room to pack. It’s in a convenient messenger bag style, designed for weekend trips and beach days. It has room for baby essentials, mom’s essentials, and more! The front “parent pocket” has a convenient slot for your cell phone.
The straps are adjustable, and the bag can be worn over the shoulder or cross-body. It has a cushioned changing mat and stroller straps and a large two-way inner compartment and zip closers. The XL Duo even has a luggage sleeve to make it easy to carry along with other luggage.
Pros:
- Extra roomy
- Comfortable
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Pricey
Click here to check the price on the Skip Hop XL Duo
Mancro Baby Bag – Best Bag for Flying
This best diaper backpack is great for storing everything you need for your little one, including bottles or their sippy cup, diapers, a changing mat, toys, and games to keep them amused! Its large capacity, anti-theft technology, and insulated pockets make it a fantastic bag for setting off on a flight.
Remember, flying can be hard on a toddler (not to mention the jet lag afterwards!), so having everything on hand makes this the best backpack for flying with toddlers. It comes with a convenient changing pad and several pockets to cover everything that you and your toddler might need.
Pros:
- Very large capacity while still being compact for travel
- Two temperature-controlled areas for multiple bottles
- Durable
Cons:
- Plain and not available in more decorative styles
MomCozy Universal Baby Stroller Organizer – Best Mom Bag with Stroller Clips
This stroller bag comes in six designs and is made of attractive Oxford fabric. This stroller bag is fantastic for moving around with your baby or toddler! It has been made with a stroller fit in mind. Meaning it will fit comfortably over your buggy or pram handles and make things readily available when needed.
The best travel bags for moms with toddlers, and this is no exception with its two temp-controlled areas and multi-functional partitions for easy organization. There’s even a mesh pocket at the front for your cellphone as well as a small zipper pocket excellent for keeping cash, cards, or small items. There are individual cup holders, too.
Pros:
- It fits over any stroller
- Great for organization
- Versatile
Cons:
- Smaller than some other options
Check here for current prices on the MomCozy
Colombia Summit Rush Backpack – Best Travel Bag for Moms with Toddlers
This bag was designed with versatility and travel in mind. Its plain design makes it ideal for moms and dads, and it contains the space and pockets you need to store all of your toddler’s essentials on any sort of trip. The patented Therma-Flect technology in the bottle storage pocket will keep your bottles exactly the temperature they need to be!
The bag has been treated to prevent bacterial growth and has ultra-safe leakproof technology. The Summit Rush comes with a changing mat and 8 total pockets for storing everything you and your toddler will need on your journey. It’s also extremely sturdy and great for adventures!
Pros:
- Designed for travel durability
- Lightweight and spacious
- Easy access
Cons:
- The lack of smaller pockets can hinder the organization
Click here to shop the Columbia Summit Rush backpack
Michael Kors Gilly Large Tote – Best Designer Mom Bag
If your taste sways more towards the best designer totes for moms, then why not invest in a bag that should see you through many years? A Michael Kors tote is the ideal choice for fashion-conscious toddler moms. Made from saffiano leather, this is a practical, hard-wearing pick that your kids might even borrow by the time they become a teen…
Saffiano leather is a great choice here because the textured finish is very easy to wipe clean. It’s also tough and durable, and will continue to look good for a long time to come. This Michael Kors bag for moms comes in a range of colours, too, from neutrals like black or cream to brights such as carmine or subtle shades like pale blue. Monogrammed options are also available.
This bag has two side slip pockets and one zippered compartment, and seals securely at the top too to keep the contents safe and dry. Happy owners love the spaciousness, the durability and of course the designer looks of this bag. The price tag is more affordable than you might think, too!
Pros:
- Designer style
- Generous capacity
- Tough, durable saffiano leather
Cons:
- Not the cheapest choice
Click here to shop for the Michael Kors Gilly tote
Women’s Anti-Theft Messenger Bag – Best Safety Bag
The best bags for moms with toddlers must also consider the practicalities of everyday life, which is why this anti-theft mom crossbody bag is a favorite. It comes with a patented 5-Point Anti-Theft security system which will keep everything inside safe from wandering hands. Though thieves are most welcome to our half chewed snacks or teething rusks!
All of the compartments of this messenger bag lock, and the bag is slash-resistant, insulated against RFID electronic theft, and more. All of this, and it still contains enough space for your diapers, wipes, and baby bottles!
Pros:
- Secure for travel
- Waterproof
- Several storage pockets
Cons:
- It may be too small for some toddler items
Bebe Under The Seat Carry On Bag – Best Diaper Bag with Wheels
Sometimes carrying everything through the airport can be a little much, making this one of the best handbags for moms with toddlers. It easily converts into a rolling bag that can be pulled behind you! There’s even room on top to place other bags for your convenience.
It’s a very spacious bag with several compartments that also fit under seats on planes, making it a great bag for travel. It’s also small enough that it can be easily pulled alongside other luggage, making it great when travelling with your toddler and older kids!
Pros:
- Roomy
- Good for air travel
- Convenient to transport
Cons:
- No insulated pockets or changing mat slot
Check here for the current price on the Bebe diaper bag on wheels
Miss Fong Mini Diaper Bag – Best Small Bag
This small backpack is great thanks to its versatility. It can be worn on your back, cross body, as a shoulder bag, or even carried as a handbag! T he stylish vegan leather comes in four colours and is the best purse for saving space on a quick trip.
It has 11 pockets despite its small size. There is one insulated pocket for bottles and a separate zippered inner pocket that can be specifically used for parents to carry their things separate from the toddler. It’s definitely one of the best bags for moms looking to save some space and stay stylish.
Pros:
- Multi-functional and adjustable
- Small enough that it can be worn by adults or kids
- Great size for essentials
Cons:
- Not ideal for longer trips
Click here to shop the Miss Fong Mini Diaper bag
What to Look for in a Toddler Mom Bag
Multiple Pockets
Both external pockets and interior pockets are very important in a good nappy bag. Various pockets can be used to store different things. Exterior pockets are great for quick access to the things you need. An organizer bag must make things easy to find, and an exterior pocket to carry bottles or a zip pocket to protect small items are essential.
Stylish Bag
Travelling with a baby or toddler doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. How many pockets the bag has is one thing, but how it looks is another. There are plenty of options designed with style in mind so that you can carry everything that you and your little one need and look great doing it.
Water Bottle Pocket
The best bags for moms travelling with toddlers have at least one water bottle pocket and usually more. An insulated bottle bag is a must for toddlers still on milk, and a pocket big enough to hold your kids’ sippy cups is important too. After all, not having the sippy cup at hand can quickly be a problem!
Insulation
Insulated pockets to keep baby bottles warm or keep toddler milk cold are an important part of any good mom bag. An insulated bag is essential for travel, keeping the baby’s milk and food at a good temperature and your own water bottles.
Padded Straps
If you’re carrying a bag all day, it needs to be comfortable! Padded straps will help take some of the strain off your shoulders, whatever type of bag you carry. These are especially important for messenger bags and backpacks, which often start to chafe without proper strap protection.
Adjustable Straps
Your bag will likely be used by more than one adult and in more than one situation. Versatility is a must for all baby bags, and adjustable straps are an important part of making that possible. Straps that can be adjusted for the wearer’s height and the bag’s weight are very important.
Size
Carrying baby stuff isn’t easy, and all their stuff takes up quite a bit of room! That’s why it’s very important to find a bag that can fit everything you need. However, you also need to remember to keep it compact enough for easy travel. A huge bag that gets too bulky to carry is just as bad as a small bag that can’t fit anything inside!
5 Best Toddler Bags for Moms Accessories
It doesn’t just stop with the bag! Sometimes, adding a little extra or two can make life so much simpler – or even more pleasant. Here are my top picks for those things you might like to add to purses for moms of toddlers.
Wet Bags
Wet bags can be indispensable! We live near the beach, but that’s not the only reason why I love them. They’re so handy to have when you need to separate items, such as soiled diapers or nappies when there’s no waste disposal facilities. Or clothing that your child has thrown up on!
You can even use these just to keep items separate. This is helpful when it comes to organization and finding stuff. Most packs contain a range of colours and/or sizes, making them even more versatile. As well as easier to find the one you want within the bigger bag.
The 3 best wet bags
- Alvababy 2 piece set | 2 waterproof, zippered bags available at a bargain price
- Babygoal 2/3 piece set | 2 or 3 waterproof, zipped bags in a huge range of colours
- Bumkins 1 wet bag | 1 waterproof bag with zipper in 13 patterns, including Disney
Stroller Hook
It doesn’t cost a lot to buy a stroller hook, yet it can be so useful. Most of those available come as a two-pack, so you can also use them for hanging shopping bags from their buggy, pram or stroller. They are really easy to attach and detach, and very lightweight so they don’t add to your load.
Most fit all types of stroller, and are made to cope with considerable weights. If you ever find you’re carrying bags over your arm on the way home, then you really do need to invest in a pair of these!
The 3 best stroller hooks
- Baby Uma stroller hooks | 2 strong, universal hooks with a 5-kilo capacity
- Clip ‘n’ Go stroller hooks | 2 foam covered, heavy duty carabiner-style hooks
- OXO Tot stroller hooks | 2 lightweight hooks with non-slip grips and adjustable straps
Portable Changing Mat
You might have a changing mat already, especially as some of the best purses for busy moms already come with one. But they don’t always last that long, as I find the coating tends to split after regular use. And even if you do have one already, they’re very handy to keep in the car.
Most are rectangular, but some have ‘wings’ to the sides. They tend to fold down into a neat package, and sometimes come with pockets or other accessories too.
The 3 best changing mats
- Babebay portable mat | Folding, waterproof BPA-free pad with integral pillow in 3 prints
- KeaBabies Swift changing pad | Compact, rectangular mat in 12 colors with wipe-clean, waterproof surface
- Kopi Baby portable pad | ‘Winged’ mat in 3 colours with straps, wipes holder and zipped pocket
Organiser Insert
You may not need one of these if you choose a bag with multiple pockets. But if you opt for something like a regular tote or backpack, this sort of insert can easily convert these into backpacks or handbags for moms with toddlers.
These inserts are just really helpful when you want to stay tidy and organised. As well as every single time you need to find something in a hurry!
The 3 best bag inserts
- Doxo purse organiser | Affordable insert with multiple pockets and zippered compartment
- Lexsion felt bag insert | Insert with removable inner pockets in a range of sizes and colours
- Omistyle organiser insert | Bestselling bag insert available in 5 sizes and 16 colours
Insulated Bottle Coolers
Last but not least – an insulated bottle holder for your mom bag. These can be used to keep drinks cool on the go. They typically come with an ice pack to chill the contents, and/or a foil lining for maximum insulation.
If you’re like us, you’ll find these really useful for beach days at every stage of your children’s lives. They’re good for adults too!
The 3 best bottle sleeves
- Babeyer 4-bottle cooler | Holds 4 bottles with handle, large opening and small pocket
- Bellotte 2 piece pack | 2 BPA-free bottle holders in 3 colours with foil lining and strap
- Itzy Ritzy 3-bottle cooler | In 8 colours, holds 3 tall bottles or can be used as a lunchbox
Best Toddler Bag for Moms FAQs
What is a Good Mom Bag?
The best mom bag will be big enough to hold everything you need to carry. Practical features to look for include a wipe-clean surface, multiple pockets and compartments, waterproofing and a zippered closure. You can choose between diaper bags, backpacks and totes.
What Should I Pack in my Toddler Bag?
Items to include in your toddler mom bag are nappies or diapers, wipes, hand sanitizer, a change of clothes, a rain jacket, a blanket, drinks, snacks and small toys. This way you can keep your kid clean, dry, warm, fed, hydrated and entertained.
The Verdict – Which Bag for Traveling with Toddlers is Right for You
Whether you prefer tote bags, backpacks, or shoulder bags, this guide will help guide you to the best kind of bag for your travel and lifestyle needs! There’s no need to sacrifice style or comfort for convenience, and many practical options exist.
I’ve experienced first-hand how investing in the right products can make or break my travel experience with the little ones. That’s why this guide exists – to help you find the best bag for you and your family and help you on your way to the best vacation ever!
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