10 Best Backpacks for Moms with toddlers, that will make your everyday and travelling a breeze
Last Updated on 09/10/2023 by Clotilde Passalacqua
Over the last 5 years in the market that offers products for parents there has been an incredible shift from bags to backpacks. It could now be overwhelming when you start to look for the best backpacks for moms with toddlers as the offer has multiplied and you need to identify the right model for your needs.
Backpacks when you have children are very practical as they leave your hands free, but also because with toddlers you still tend to carry a lot of things. Often you go out or travel without a stroller and shoulder or cross-body bags become uncomfortable after a while and can cause back pain. This is nothing new, but the novelty is that now the backpacks are super organised and structured, offering pockets and sleeves for every need. Backpacks for Moms in particular have recently overtaken diaper bags in popularity.
Backpacks have expanded their look moving from an accessory with an exclusive sporting connotation to become fashion companions even for Moms looking for something more elegant and trendy, but functional!
Likewise in the analysis made to identify the best bags for Moms, here too, you will find the most functional backpack models that can be used for years, not only when you have children.
After analysing the individual models you will find a summary of the 6 key points to keep in mind when choosing the model to best suit you.
This post may contain affiliate links. I may receive a commission for purchases made through the links on this page, at no cost to you.
BEST BACKPACKS FOR MOMS WITH TODDLERS: COMPARISON TABLE
There is an important consideration to make before starting. As we said, on the market there are many models available, some very similar to each other at different prices.
What often determines the price difference is the manufacturer and the material with which they are made. Just remember that choosing the cheapest option is not always the best solution, as these bags are going to go under a lot of involuntary abuse. Having said that, there are some really good value for money products on this list that even at a low cost will last for a long time.
Certainly backpacks, much more than bags, can easily lose their shape when overfilled and carried on the shoulder. Pockets and sleeves help to have an adequate distribution of objects helping to maintain the original shape. The best backpacks for Mom have the right design and materials to help keeping the right shape even on the shoulder.
scroll right to see all models
| MODEL | RUVALINO BEST BACKPACK OVERALL | KAOME BEST VALUE FOR MONEY BACKPACK | OLIVIA AND GRAY MOST STYLISH BACKPACK | ALLCAMP EASIEST BACKPACK TO ORGANISE | TWELVELITTLE PEEK-A-BOO BEST TRAVEL BACKPACK | SKIP HOP FORM BEST EVERYDAY BACKPACK | TWELVELITTLE COURAGE BEST BACKPACK FOR TWINS | COLUMBIA BEST SPORTY BACKPACK | HSD BEST UNISEX BACKPACK | MISS FONG BEST CONVERTIBLE BACKPACK |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MODEL |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| N. OF POCKETS | 16 POCKETS 4 external 12 internal (2 insulated) | 15 POCKETS 4 external 11 internal (2 insulated) | 9 POCKETS 4 external 5 internal (2 insulated) | 14 POCKETS 4 external 9 internal (3 insulated) | 13 POCKETS 4 external (2 insulated) 4 internal + 2 bottle strap | 8 POCKETS 4 external (2 insulated) 4 internal +2 packing cubes | 12 POCKETS 6 external (2 insulated) 6 internal | 14 POCKETS 5 external 9 internal (1 insulated) | 4 POCKETS 1 external 3 internal | 6 POCKETS 2 external 4 internal |
| HOOKS FOR STROLLER | INTEGRATED BUCKLES | YES | YES | NO, USE SHOULDER STRAP | NOT INCLUDED BUT EYELET INTEGRATED | INTEGRATED BUCKLES | NO | INTEGRATED BUCKLES | INTEGRATED BUCKLES | YES |
| CHECK THE PRICE | CHECK THE PRICE | CHECK THE PRICE | CHECK THE PRICE | CHECK THE PRICE | CHECK THE PRICE | CHECK THE PRICE | CHECK THE PRICE | CHECK THE PRICE | CHECK THE PRICE | CHECK THE PRICE |
1. Best backpack for moms overall: RUVALINO TRAVEL BACKPACK
RUVALINO MULTIFUNCTION TRAVEL BACKPACK
Why to choose it. This model is one of the most appreciated backpacks by parents and there is certainly good reason. It is roomy and functional with a timeless design that will allow you to use it in countless situations.
Main features. An extremely useful feature is the 16 pockets distributed in the four areas available, main backpack area, changing area, feeding area, and valuables area. The main part has an extra wide opening and is very roomy. There are 6 pockets to organise bulkier things including a sleeve for your laptop.
The front part opens completely, there you can separate everything you need for changing. In an even more external position, another complete opening gives access to the space for the two insulated bottle pockets and meshed pockets.
The other pockets are distributed all around, including a practical one on the back for your phone and one on the side for wipes (the idea is excellent even if it doesn’t work very well with all wipes)
The shoulder straps are padded and comfortable, and there are also two practical handles if you want to occasionally carry it as a bag. Two D-rings on the back also make it easy to attach to the stroller.
What makes it different. This backpack has a classic style that is not too sporty and is perfectly suited for moms on the go, but also for dads. In some markets it is available in different colours for all preferences. If you often travel with low cost airlines you will be able to use this bag even on those with the most restrictive policies. It is just a little over the maximum size to be an approved Ryanair cabin bag to bring on board free of charge, but as it has a soft structure you shouldn’t have any problem.
Overall one of the best backpacks for moms with toddlers.
Dimension: 11.8 x 7.8 x 16.5 inches / 30 x 20 x 42 cm (0.8kg / 1.7lbs)
PROS
- Many pockets
- Changing mat included
- Great size for travel
- Laptop dedicated space
- Waterproof and lightweight (0.8kg / 1.7lbs)
CONS
- No stroller hooks included
- The top opening could be wider
2. CHEAPEST BACKPACK FROM MOMS: KAOME DIAPER BACKPACK
Why to choose it. This backpack is perfect for mothers at any stage, from babies to older children and also when returning to work.
Main features. Kaome adopts one of the most common and popular structures at the moment. It has a wide base and a great wide opening that allows an excellent view inside.
Made of soft waterproof material it has 15 pockets, including 2 insulated pockets and one wet&dry pocket in the zip on the back.
It is a fairly large model and might be difficult to rummage all the way when full, but on the back there is an ingenious zip that offers convenient access right at the bottom. On the back there is also a practical luggage strap to anchor it to the trolley when travelling.
In addition to the shoulder straps there are also handles for occasional carrying and a luggage fixing strap. It comes equipped with a changing mat, pram hooks, and a water bottle pouch!
What makes it different. A super cute backpack at a really good price!
Dimension: 11.8 x 9 x 15.7 inches / 30 x 23 x 40 cm (1.1kg / 2.4lbs)
PROS
- Many pockets
- Wide opening at the top
- Extra opening on the back
- Changing mat, stroller hooks, and bottle pouch included
- Solid structure that does not deform
- Waterproof fabric
CONS
- Difficult to find any!
If you like a vibrant pattern and you also want to personalise your back pack you can look at this option from Etsy. Another great quality bag with the same type of structure as the Kaome backpack.
3. MOST STYLISH MOM BACKPACK: OLIVIA AND GRAY PERSONALSED BACKPACK
Why to choose it. This is the best backpack for moms with toddlers that are looking for a classy and minimal look.
Main features. This backpack, made of vegan leather, has a clean line and is perfectly functional. The zip opening is very wide and allows convenient access to the contents, and then there is a flap to cover it which makes the backpack much more elegant.
There are 9 pockets to organize everything you need. Two insulated pockets inside for bottles and two side pockets outside plus a zipped pocket on the back to keep your phone safe. Comes equipped with changing mat and pram hooks. On the surface it looks like an ordinary backpack, but it hides what is needed for perfect organisation.
What makes it different. This backpack is handmade, which guarantees a high attention to detail. It is available in black, tan, and gray, and can also be customised with three embossed golden initials.
Dimension: 11.8 x 7.1 x 16.9 inches / 30 x 18 x 43 cm
PROS
- Many pockets
- Wide opening
- Changing mat, stroller hooks included
- Possibility to personalize
CONS
- Difficult to find any!
4. Easiest backpack to organise: ALLCAMP DIAPER BACKPACK
Why to choose it. The ALLCAMP backpack has a very particular line, really functional, that closely resembles the famous Jujube B.F.F. bag, but for less than a third of the price.
Main features. What makes this backpack stand out is the opening to access the main compartment. There is a zip on the front that allows you to open the backpack completely by turning on three sides. This way you easily access all the pockets available and organize and find everything easily. The front pocket is big enough to allow you to keep the most used stuff on hand. It comes with an extra removable shoulder strap to convert to a crossbody bag.
The backpack is only available in two quite flamboyant patterns that may not appeal to everyone. The quality is good, although some details leave something to be desired such as the faux leather handles that seem to be easily damaged, making the bag less attractive.
What makes it different. The backpack design is one of the most practical and truly allows for super organisation. The price is super competitive, but remember that quality is also in proportion to the price.
Dimension: 14.5 x 8.5 x 13 inches / 36.5 x 21.5 x 33 cm (1.07kg / 2.3lbs)
PROS
- Really wide opening
- Changing mat, included
- Convertible to cross-body bag
CONS
- No discreet colours available
- No hooks for stroller (it can be attached using the shoulder straps, but not super practical)
5. Best travel backpack for moms: TWELVELITTLE Peek-A-Boo Backpack
Why to choose it. A stylish backpack, functional and well made, that is also really practical when you travel as you can anchor it to the suitcase.
Main features. The Peek-A-Boo backpack is part of a line that has a distinctive solution to always have wipes on hand. The front pocket is designed to accommodate baby wipes and always have them easily accessible. It comes with a special baby wipes pouch to insert them and then fit them in the backpack pocket. This has a double functionality as with a small magnet you can move the internal divider and use it as a normal pocket.
In the main compartment there are 4 pockets (1 zipped) plus 2 elastics to keep bottles in place and hooks for keys and dummies! On the sides there are two other pockets for extra water bottles, also one zipped pocket on the front and one on the back that can be completely opened to fix the backpack on a trolley when travelling (this size would fit most low cost airlines as a free cabin bag). The shoulder straps are padded for added comfort but aesthetically they could be a bit more attractive.
Ring on the back to fix it to the pram hook and changing mat included.
What makes it different. The bags and backpacks of this brand are designed by a mum who is a handbag fashion designer who has decided to combine quality and functional products for mothers with the trends of the moment.
Dimension: 5.6 x 12.5 x 14.7 inches / 14 x31.5 x 37.5 cm (0.85kg / 1.8lbs)
PROS
- Lightweight and water-resistant
- Changing mat, included
- Perfect for travel
- Many clever pockets
- Best wipes solution
CONS
- No hooks for stroller included
- Great price in the US, but more expensive in other markets
6. Best everyday mom backpack purse: SKIP HOP FORMA
Why to choose it. The SKIP HOP Forma is a trendy and well made backpack, perfect to use when you have children, but also great afterwards.
Main features. Another backpack where the design has integrated a comfortable and wide opening that allows you to access the interior, organise everything, and have excellent visibility. The backpack has an excellent structure and is easily kept open.
With 11 pockets it can be organised from snacks to a complete change. It comes equipped with 2 small packing cubes that are placed in the front pocket, one perfect for keeping a spare change or small accessories, the other is insulated to also store snacks and bottles. A large internal pocket is the space dedicated to the changing mat or for a 15” laptop. On the front a zipped pocket hides dedicated space for a mobile phone and on the sides there are insulated bottle pockets. The quilted fabric is waterproof and the shoulder straps are padded and comfortable. Integrated into the shoulder straps are the pram buckles, less comfortable than the classic pram hooks but aesthetically pleasant.
What makes it different. Access to the backpack is super practical and makes searching for contents super easy, excellent also to take to work or for outdoor activities.
Dimension: 8 x 16 x 14 inches / 20 x 40 x 35 cm (0.65kg / 1.4lbs)
PROS
- Lightweight and water-resistant
- Laptop dedicated space
- Changing mat, included
- Wide opening
- Comfortable shoulder straps
CONS
- No hooks for stroller (it can be attached using the shoulder buckles, but not super practical)
To be honest SKIP HOP produce some of the best backpacks for moms and when I went to check them out it was really difficult to pick the top one! If you prefer a more stylish mom backpack you can also check out the SKIP HOP Greenwich. It is in vegan leather and despite access to the main compartment being less wide it is still really practical.
7. Best backpack for moms with twins: TWELVELITTLE COURAGE BACKPACK
Why to choose it. The Courage backpack is perfect for sporty mothers or those who prefer to facilitate an easy swap with dad. It is also suitable for moms of twins due to its excellent capacity.
Main features. This is the largest backpack that the Twelvelittle brand produces. The quality and finishing are of a high standard as well as the attention to detail for organisation.
There are 12 pockets between inside and out including a dedicated separate space for a laptop up to 15”. Two thermal pockets on the sides for the bottles and a convenient passage for the phone cable to charge it while leaving the power bank inside. Like the Peek-A-Boo model, the pocket on the back opens to fix it on a trolley when travelling.
There are 2 practical handles, but no dedicated stroller hooks, you will need to use the shoulder straps
What makes it different. The only backpack on the list that can be machine washed with a gentle cold cycle, to make it look new even after the roughest adventure! This is a super versatile backpack. Perfect when you have toddlers, newborn babies and even twins, but also for going to work or travelling.
Dimension: 14 x 6.7 x 17 inches / 35.5 x 17 x 43 cm (1.1kg / 2.4lbs)
PROS
- Water-resistant
- Changing mat, included
- Wide opening
- Machine washable
- Laptop dedicated (separate) space
- Comfortable shoulder straps
- Separate, padded 15”laptop space
CONS
- Price, it is the most expansive in this list. Although this is a backpack you can use for years
- No clever option to hook it to the stroller
RELATED: The only baby travel essentials packing list you need
8. Best sporty backpack for moms: COLUMBIA CARSON
Why to choose it. Moms who choose the Columbia backpack are looking for a sporty, practical, and compact look. Suitable for more minimalist mothers who tend to carry fewer things or that have an older toddler who need less changes during the day.
Main features. The backpack is divided into two compartments with a total of 10 pockets. In the main compartment there are also insulated bottle pockets and a small zipped pocket. In the back there is a padded space for a laptop and / or the supplied changing mat.
Four other pockets are located on the outside. There are also 2 buckles to attach it to the stroller, aesthetically beautiful but frankly much less practical than stroller hooks.
As we said, the backpack is on the smaller size and arouses different opinions. Some parents find it perfect both in style and organization, others find it too small. As usual, it depends on expectations, the more traditional shape makes it less practical than other models if you have the habit of carrying many things with you, but it is perfect for the essentials.
What makes it different. Being a Columbia backpack, the line is trendy and sporty, no one would imagine that it is a diaper bag. It uses some of the most modern and patented materials from the safety standard, bacteria growth and radiant barrier to keep food and drinks cool.
Dimension: 12 x 7 x 17 inches / 30 x 18 x 43 cm (1.06kg / 2.3lbs)
PROS
- Changing mat included
- Comfortable shoulder straps
- Light and sleek design
- Separate, padded 15” laptop space
- Ultra Safe wipe clean floor
CONS
- No hooks for stroller (it can be attached using the shoulder buckles, but not super practical)
10. Best unisex backpack: HSD DIAPER BACKPACK
Why to choose it. This is one of the best backpacks for moms with toddlers who love adventures. Hiking, walking, camping, or any other outdoor activity and are looking for a backpack that they can easily exchange with dad and continue to use when the children have grown up.
Main features. The backpack has a traditional line, and is quite roomy. However, access to the main compartment is what distinguishes it. The front has a zip that turns on three sides and allows you to open it like a suitcase. On top of that, another zipped area opens completely to organise small stuff.
Both inside and outside there are several pockets, with strap, zip, or open sleeve. The two side zipped pockets are thermal insulated big enough for bottles and snacks to keep warm/cold. There is also a practical pocket for wipes on the top.
Like any serious backpack of this type there is a chest and a waist strap. The back is padded for comfort and there is the possibility of inserting a hydration bladder in the dedicated insulated space.
Definitely a backpack to use for years!
What makes it different. It has a masculine style (it is sold as a dad diaper bag, but I think it is perfect for active moms too) , a model that does not forget all the characteristics that a serious backpack must have in terms of capacity, organization, and comfort.
Dimension: 12 x 7 x 18 inches / 30 x 18 x 46 cm (1.5kg / 3.3lbs)
PROS
- Changing mat, included
- Comfortable shoulder straps
- Wipe pocket
- Backpack for life
CONS
- Some moms may find it too masculine
- Quite big
10. Best convertible backpack: DIAPER BACKPACK BY MISS FONG
Why to choose it. A faux leather backpack, with an elegant and functional look on a budget. Perfect for moms that like the possibility to also use it as a shoulder bag.
Main features. The backpack is large enough (for small women it may be a little too big) and super roomy. 16 pockets help organize everything you need, including 4 insulated pockets.
The opening from the top is wide, although for a backpack of this size it may still not allow a complete overview when completely full. It was born as a backpack but you can attach the two supplied handles to carry it as a shoulder bag as well. The same handles can be used to attach the bag to the stroller. However, this way the backpack can hang too low, better to use the eyelets with pram hooks.
What makes it different. Classy, timeless look, great size. Practical features, available in brown or black with gold zip accents
Dimension: 11 x 6 x 17 inches / 28 x 15 x 43 cm (1.6kg / 3.5lbs)
PROS
- Lots of pockets
- 4 insulated pockets
CONS
- A bit heavy
You could also be interested in “The reality of travelling with twins and how to make it possible”!
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN CHOOSING THE BEST BACKPACKS FOR MOMS OF TODDLERS
- Access: One of the most important features to consider when looking for the best backpacks for moms with toddlers is the type of access to the main compartment. Normal backpacks usually have an opening that is too small to be easily organised, but above all to find what you need once they are full. If you have a tendency to over-pack, a backpack that allows you easy visibility of the contents should be your priority.
- Pockets and compartments. The objects for children are usually small, when choosing your backpack pay particular attention to the different possibilities of organisations. When you are out and about you want to avoid having to pull out everything to find what you are looking for.
Sleeved, meshed, zipped, insulated, and elasticated pockets will help you find a place for everything and especially to find it easily.
If you often bring snacks or warm bottles, check that there are enough insulated pockets and that they are large enough. Make sure the pocket for your phone, keys, and purse is practical for you. Backpacks, unlike bags, are more difficult to organise with internal dividers, so it is more important to choose a suitable one for your needs.
- Longevity: The best backpacks for moms are aesthetically very attractive and if you wish you can continue to use them even when your child is older, taking advantage of the ability to organize your things in the various pockets available.
- Value for money: If your budget allows it, do not hesitate to spend at least as much as you would for the purchase of any other backpack. Backpacks for moms with toddlers are subjected to heavy use on a daily basis. The initial expense will be justified over time if the product is of a quality that you can use for several years.
- Easy to clean. The best travel backpack for moms at this stage of life, must be easy to clean because for some time they will be the carriers of food, drinks, and dirty things. Check that the material can be at least wipe cleaned.
- Accessory: there are many accessories that can also make an everyday handbag functional, but one in particular should be considered. If you still use the stroller a lot, consider one of the purses for moms that can be easily attached to the handlebar.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST MODEL FOR YOU?
Choosing a backpack can be more difficult than choosing a bag, unless you already have several models even if for other uses. The most important thing to consider is your lifestyle, this will help you narrow down the list.
If your style is sporty casual, you will have many models to choose from with Ruvalino, Kaome, and ALLCAMP probably the most suitable models.
If you prefer something that you can also use when you go to work, look at Olivia and Gray, SKIP HOP Greenwich, Twelvelittle Peek-A-Boo, or Miss Fong.
Ruvalino and Twelvelittle Courage, on the other hand, are perfect if you want to share the carrying with dad.
Last but not least, if you often go for outdoor adventures, Columbia and HSD will be the most comfortable
My choice? I tend to use a backpack only when I’m wearing a more casual outfit. Kaome and the personalised backpack from Etsy are my favourites
BEST ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR BACKPACK
To recap: as I was mentioning before, backpacks are less easy to organise with dividers inside, but there are other useful accessories you can add to them to make your life as easy as possible.
Insulated bottle pouch
A bottle pouch could be really useful even when you have a proper diaper bag, as often the thermal insulated pockets are not so effective. Most of these pouches work better keeping liquid cold rather than hot, but even if not perfect they definitely help.
Travel wet and dry bag
This is an accessory that is good to have also if you carry a diaper bag. When kids are young you’re probably using it mainly to separate dirty clothes or nappies from the other stuff in your bag. Later on it will be really useful during your beach holidays or a swimming lesson. (that’s exactly what we use it for now)
Bag organising pouches
Especially with deep backpack it can be convenient to divide all those small bits and pieces in different categories and organise them in separate pouches. If you tend to pack lots of stuff this will help you slash the time you spend rummaging in your bag.
The ones on the picture are sold in Amazon and are durable, wipeable and include wet/dry bags. If are looking to gift it to someone you can check these in Etsy that you can also personalise.
Stroller hooks
Most backpacks in this list come with hooks or buckles to attach them to the stroller. If the model you choose doesn’t include them already, then they usually have at least eyelets you can use to attach the backpack to the stroller handlebar if you attach some hooks.
I hope this guide will help you to choose your companion backpack for many years! Let me know in the comments if I forgot any model!
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Clotilde Passalacqua
Clotilde is a resilient, resourceful and adventurous person that navigate the world of travelling with kids. She is a mum of 7 years old twins and she share practical tips, profound insights and genuine personal experience to empowers family to embrace travel with children as an enriching experience rather than a daunting challenge.
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