14 best bags for moms with toddlers to travel in style without compromise in functionality
Is your baby now a toddler and you want to regain some of your former style? Here you will find the best bags for moms with toddlers, not only functional, but also to match your style and your needs.
After the first twelve months, babies reach the stage of life in which they are called toddlers (up to about four years of age). In this phase the quantity of items that you will have to bring with you will decrease and the classic diaper bag can be replaced by a mom handbag, functional and capacious but at the same time stylish and on trend.
If you travel often you will find it very practical to not have to carry a second bag as the best bags for moms are versatile enough to be used as everyday bags or to go out to dinner.
In this article you will find a detailed analysis of the best bags for moms with toddlers, from tote bags to cross body bags, and up to considering the possibility of using designer bags when out and about with a small child. If, on the other hand, you are looking for style but prefer the convenience of a backpack, then read this article where you will find the best backpacks for moms.
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BEST BAGS FOR MOMS WITH TODDLERS: COMPARISON TABLE
This list starts with moms bags that are specifically designed as diaper bags, extremely organised, but with a look like any other everyday bag. Then it moves on to other bags whose quality and design make them a perfect alternative.
scroll right to see all models
| MODEL | MOMINSIDE TOTE BAG | BUGABOO STORKSAK LEATHER BAG | SKIP HOP TOTE CURVE | HERSCHEL BABY STRAND SPROUT | SKIP HOP GREENWICH | SKIP HOP CHELSEA DOWNTOWN | TWELVELITTLE PEEK-A-BOO CROSSBODY | TWELVELITTLE DIAPER CLUTCHY | FOSSIL MAYA HOBO | CARHARTT EAST/WEST | MICHAEL KORS JET SET TRAVEL SHOULDER BAG | MOLODO WOMENS HANDBAG | ISWEE LEATHER HANDBAG | SOFT ITALIAN REAL LEATHER SHOPPER |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MODEL |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| N. OF POCKETS | 13 POCKETS 6 external 7 internal (4 insulated) | 9 POCKETS 3 external 6 internal (1 insulated) | 8 POCKETS 8 internal (2 accessible also from outside) | No pockets inside, bag divided in 3 spaces 3 sleeves outside | 13 POCKETS 4 external 9 internal (2 insulated) | 12 POCKETS 8 external 4 internal (2 insulated) | 4 internal compartments | 3 internal areas and 1 pouch | 4 POCKETS 1 external 3 internal | 6 POCKETS 2 external 4 internal | 6 POCKETS 2 external 4 internal | 4 POCKETS 3 external 1 internal pouch | 1 external pocket 4 internal compartments | NO |
| HOOKS FOR STROLLER | NO | NO | YES | YES | YES | YES | NO | YES | NO | NO | NO | NO | NO | NO |
| WAYS TO WEAR IT | 3 WAYS - Shoulder - Cross-body - Backpack | 2 WAYS - Shoulder - Cross-body | 2 WAYS - Shoulder - Cross-body | 2 WAYS - Shoulder - Cross-body | 3 WAYS - Shoulder - Cross-body - Backpack | 2 WAYS - Shoulder - Cross-body | 1 WAY - Cross-body | 1 WAY - Cross-body | 2 WAYS - Shoulder - Cross-body | 1 WAY - Shoulder | 1 WAY - Shoulder | 1 WAY - Shoulder | 2 WAYS - Shoulder - Cross-body | 1 WAY - Shoulder |
| 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 | CHECK THE PRICE | CHECK THE PRICE | CHECK THE PRICE | CHECK THE PRICE |
1. Best bags for moms with toddlers overall: MOMINSIDE
Why to choose it. Mominside tote bag is one of the best tote bag for moms, because it is roomy, versatile, and available at a great price.
Main features. A tote bag of generous proportions, but which can be easily organized thanks to the 13 storage pockets (6 external and 7 internal) which include 4 insulated pockets to maintain the ideal drinks/snacks temperature for longer. Extremely versatile, it also offers a padded and dedicated space for a 13 ” laptop. A zip on top closes the large opening that makes access to diapers and changes very easy and comes equipped with its own waterproof changing pad.
What makes it different. Designed as a tote bag to carry on the shoulder, it can be quickly transformed into a backpack with padded straps (hidden in the back-pocket) or even as a cross body bag with an extra shoulder strap supplied. But it doesn’t stop there, this is also the best travel bag for moms as you can unzip a pocket on the back and easily attach it to a trolley when running through the airport. The exterior in PU leather and the interior in 100% waterproof nylon make it easy to clean. Definitely one the best bags for moms with toddlers
PROS
- Many pockets
- Great to travel
- Many ways to wear it
- Multipurpose
CONS
- A little heavy
- No stroller hooks
2. Best bags for quality: BUGABOO STORKSAK
Why choose it. This is not a cheap purse, but one that will accompany you through several pregnancies and different stages of life if you wish. Genuine leather will age gracefully as only leather bags can. Available in black only, perfect to match any outfit.
Main features. The modern look could be deceiving, it does not present itself in a way that suggests it is one of the best bags for moms with toddler. However inside there are 6 pockets of different sizes to have everything at hand. There are also three external pockets, one of which is thermo insulated and one with a magnetic button, very practical for cell phones.
The zip opening is wide and allows easy access to the contents and the ability to use it to carry your laptop too. It includes a padded changing mat with two pockets to always have everything at hand.
The straps are long and make it very practical to use as a shoulder bag, but there is also a removable shoulder strap to wear it cross body.
What makes it different. Timeless clean design that does not compromise functionality.
PROS
- Many pockets
- Really good quality
CONS
- No stroller hooks
- Price
3. Best bags for price: SKIP HOP TOTE CURVE
Why choose it. Best mom purse for the price without compromising on functionality. It is made of vegan leather and polyester which makes it easy to clean. It has a wide opening with dual zip perfect for those who tend to overpack.
Main features. The wide opening on the front is really handy, as often with deep bags is difficult to see what’s at the bottom when they are full, with this bag you get a really great overview of what you packed. There are 8 pockets inside including one with a zip for smaller accessories, and two spaces for bottles. Comes complete with detachable shoulder strap for those who prefer to alternate with carrying it also as a cross body bag. The bag is equipped with practical hooks to attach it to the stroller and includes a changing mat.
What makes it different. Classy, ​​sleek look completely different to a typical nappy bag. There are two pockets for bottles that can be accessed from the inside, and also from the outside without having to open the bag completely, but unfortunately they are not insulated.
PROS
- Hooks for pram
- Easy accessible water bottle pocket
- Wide front opening
CONS
- No insulated bottle space
- Some people may prefer more pockets
4. Great multipurpose bag: HERSCHEL BABY STRAND SPROUT
Why to choose it. Are you looking for a slightly sportier look? Do you want to combine the quality of Herschel backpacks in an easy-to-organise bag? This bag with a simple and clean line perfectly combines quality, style and functionality.
Main features. The Hershel baby strand is a truly spacious, versatile, and perfect mom purse to use on various occasions. Inside the space is divided, but it does not offer many pocket storage or insulated pockets, you can however fit a 17” laptop. The handles are reinforced to carry it comfortably on one shoulder, but a practical detachable shoulder strap is also available for use as a messenger bag. On the sides there are practical hook buckles to fix it to your stroller. The changing mat supplied with the bag is large, easy to clean, and with two practical pockets to have cream and wipes at hand when needed.
What makes it different. It is available in various colours to suit every preference, can be a great option to suit both Mom and Dad!
PROS
- Buckles for pram
- Space inside big enough for a 17” laptop
CONS
- No insulated bottle space
- Some people may prefer more pockets
5. Most elegant bag: SKIP HOP GREENWICH
Why choose it. Beautiful bag in vegan leather, super versatile, perfect if you want to carry it in different ways depending on the situation; over the shoulder, as a backpack, or attached to the stroller.
Main features. Large internal space divided by 9 elastic pockets that closes with a zip, but it also has an elegant flap with magnetic closure to give a more sophisticated look. Outside there are 2 other insulated pockets for bottles and a back slip pocket. Under the flap there is also a practical zipped pocket for telephone and various accessories. The cross body strap can be adjusted in length and is the same one used to transform the bag into a backpack when you want more freedom of movement. However perhaps you should buy this bag if you plan to use it as a backpack only occasionally, the idea is great but the straps need a bit of practice to use it on your back.
What makes it different. Most of the bags that can be also used as backpack usually have proportions that are not ideal in one of the two options, in the case of the Skip Hop Greenwich the look will be perfect however you decide to wear it. One of the most versatile bags for moms.
PROS
- Hooks for pram
- Easy to access water bottle pockets
CONS
- Could do with more internal pockets
- Backpack straps not super practical
6. Best crossbody bags for moms: SKIP HOP CHELSEA DOWNTOWN
Why choose it. The Skip Hop Chelsea Downtown is a super cute purse. Choose this one if you want an everyday bag that is also perfect when you go out without children. It has been on the market for a while because it is one of the best bags for moms with toddlers.
Main features. This bag can be carried both over the shoulder or as a handbag. Unlike many other bags, changing the way you wear it also changes the aesthetics. When carried over the shoulder, the handles fold elegantly to cover the external pockets.
Made of polyester, it is very resistant to wear, easy to clean, and very light. There are 12 pockets, but only four inside, which for some mothers may not be enough for good organisation. On the outside, two thermal pockets for bottles, two with a magnetic button and two practical zip pockets for personal items. On the back an open sleeve houses a changing mat supplied with the bag
What makes it different. On the bottom there are four feet that protect it when you place it on the ground, very practical when travelling. The side pockets outside are deep and hide well a baby bottle if you have it there. (But too small bottle can be difficult to take out)
PROS
- Hooks for pram
- Great size pocket outside for phone and personal stuff
- Feet on the bottom
CONS
- It could do with more pockets inside
7. Cutest purse for moms: TWELVELITTLE PEEK-A-BOO CROSSBODY
Why choose it. This bag is certainly not for all moms, but if you are more minimalist and looking for a bag to use during short trips, when the risk of not having a complete change with you is not a problem, then you will never be separated.
Main features. In a space of just 10x7x4 in (25x17x10 cm) you will find 4 compartments. Under the front flap you will find a space specially designed for baby wipes, but which can also be used as a regular pocket. There are also two other zipped pockets for valuables and your phone. The faux leather structure makes it easy to keep clean.
What makes it different. The bags of this brand are designed by a mother who is also a handbag fashion designer and wanted to combine the practicality of diaper bags with the look of normal everyday handbags. Yes the best purses for moms can also be really stylish.
PROS
- Classy look
- Multipurpose
CONS
- Not suitable for mothers who want to be sure they have everything for any eventuality
- No insulated bottle space
8. Most clever purse design: TWELVELITTLE DIAPER CLUTCHY
Why choose it. This diaper clutch is perfect not to compromise your evening look, but still have all the essentials with a child in tow. Like the previous bag, this little, super cute clutch is not for everyone, but will amaze you with the incredible potential that lies in such a small object. Choose this bag and everyone will ask you if it is Mary Poppins’ bag.
Main features. The design is really ingenious! To make every available space accessible, the designer has created a double opening that allows you to completely open the bag in half to position everything perfectly. There are two side buttons (to limit the opening) that protect the objects inside from an accidental spill when you just want to reach your phone.
Inside there are three different spaces, a pocket sleeve, two elastic bands to hold the baby wipes in place, and another elastic to hold a small bottle or a sippy cap. If that wasn’t enough, there is also a detachable mesh pouch for small accessories. To be worn as a cross body bag, as a clutch, or attached to the stroller with the special hooks. Nothing is really missing.
What makes it different. This purse is one of a kind and to make it even more functional it is made of water resistant polyester and can be washed in the washing machine! The clever design is what makes it one of best purses for moms with toddlers.
Check out here the even more luxurious version (not available in all markets yet unfortunately), in soft vegan leather.
PROS
- Hooks for pram
- Many ways to wear it
- Multipurpose
- Available in various colours
- Machine washable
CONS
- Not suitable for mothers who want to be sure they have everything for any eventuality
- No insulated bottle space
9. Most eco-friendly moms bag : FOSSIL MAYA HOBO
Why choose it. This bag offers a classic vintage look that easily matches different situations.
Main features. The Fossil Maya Hobo has a clean line that makes the inside space very usable. Inside there is a zip pocket for small personal items and two small sleeves. Another practical pocket closed with a zip can be accessed externally and can be perfect for a bottle.
Practical to carry on the shoulder or crossbody with the removable shoulder strap. The wide and structured base allows you to pack it up without losing its shape. Perfect to use with an internal organiser.
What makes it different. Fossil puts a lot of focus on producing eco product. They claim that more than 90% of the leather for their bags comes from Leather Working group certified tanneries. If you are a lover of leather bags, but want to be sure of its provenance then this is a perfect match for you!
PROS
- Clean lines
- Eco-friendly
CONS
- Needs internal organiser
- No hooks for pram
10. Great unisex bag : CARHARTT EAST/WEST
Why choose it. This bag is large enough to be used even for a weekend away. Tote bags for moms are incredibly handy for the flexibility they offer, they need to be organised but they can be used in the future for anything you need.
Main features. Made of light and water repellent fabric, it has a simple but perfect shape to be organised with what you need most. For everyday needs, inside you will find a large sleeve that can be practical if you have to carry your laptop, plus 3 other small sleeves. The rest of the space is free. You can use a bag organizer or if you decide to use it for a short trip, equip yourself with small packing cubes, also very useful for children’s accessories. A long zip on the top prevents everything from falling out.
What makes it different. We could also define this bag unisex, Dads will be happy to carry it too.
PROS
- Multi-functional
- Great size
- Really light
- Can be folded away
- Available also in black
CONS
- Needs internal organiser
- Not a model to hook on the stroller
11. Best designer purses for moms with toddlers: MICHAEL KORS JET SET TRAVEL SHOULDER BAG
Why choose it. A bag with an iconic design, versatility, and elegance even on the go with a dirty baby in your arms and tousled hair.
Main features. The MK Jet set shoulder bag has a rigid structure that keeps its shape even when empty. Available in various colours and with the classic MK pattern. Medium in size, it offers two external pockets, a zipped pocket and 4 sleeves internally. Obviously, in this case too, the ideal is to add an insert to better organise the content.
Unlike other bags of the same line, this one has a very useful zip closure to avoid ruining the shape in case you tend to fill it too much. Unfortunately, the zip does not completely close the top of the bag, but leaves a few centimetres open at the ends, exposing small objects to the risk of falling from the inside.
What makes it different. Design bag that no one would imagine containing diapers and baby wipes
PROS
- Multi-functional
- Great size
- Really light
- Can be folded away
CONS
- Needs internal organiser
- Not a model to hook on the stroller
- Top zip doesn’t close completely
12. Best value leather bag: MOLODO WOMENS HANDBAG
Why choose it. Lovely bag available in many colours and at a low cost so you can buy more than one for different combinations.
Main features. Medium-sized bag, clean with a sporty look. Spacious enough, but practical only for those mothers who like to organize everything in practical pouches. There are no internal pockets, but it comes equipped with a little pouch coordinated for personal accessories.
What makes it different. The Molodo bag is made of a genuine leather and there are a variety of colours available
PROS
- Multi-functional
- Great size
- Available in 10+ colours
CONS
- No internal pockets
- Top doesn’t close completely
13. Best office to evening bag: ISWEE LEATHER HANDBAG
Why choose it. Perfect arm bag, it seems small, but is roomy and suitable as an everyday or evening bag.
Main features. The wide base keeps the bag structured and easy to organise. Inside there are open compartments and one closed with a zip, plus four sleeves, too small for wipes and nappies, but perfect for cards, lipsticks or cream. The zip on the top ensures that everything stays in place once inside. Practical external zip pockect for the phone or a small card wallet. If desired, there is a strap available to carry it cross body, however it is a more graceful bag worn on the arm.
What makes it different. This bag has hooks on the side to attach the shoulder strap, but they could easily be used to fix the bag to a pram if you buy some pram hooks separately.
PROS
- Top is fully zipped
- Reinforced handles
- Available in 7 colours
CONS
- A little heavy
14. Best multipurpose bag: SOFT ITALIAN REAL LEATHER SHOPPER
Why choose it. This is one of the best tote bags for moms who love to have different purses to choose from even on vacation. It is made of soft leather, so it can easily be placed flat in a suitcase. I always carry one of these bags with me when we travel even simply to pack more things on return than when we left. It is bigger than the approved Ryanair free carry on (or some other low-cost airlines), but as it is soft if you use it to fly you shouldn’t have any problem.
Main features. The structure of the bag is very basic, it is like a canvas shopper, but much more elegant as it is made of leather. There are no internal divisions or pockets, it is not lined and is closed only with two leather straps, you will definitely need an internal organiser or some pouches.
What makes it different. The price is great for a leather bag and is available in 23 different colours.
PROS
- Great size
- Great price
- Available in 20+ colours
CONS
- Need internal organises
- Not a model to hook on the stroller
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN CHOOSING THE BEST BAG FOR MOMS
- Longevity: The best handbags 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. The best purse for moms will last until you get bored of it!
- 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 bag. Bags for mums 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.
- Capacity: If when you go out you usually take half the house with you, then it is useless to delude yourself with mini bags. Focus your research on the most capacious models that offer internal divisions to organize every small accessory
- Easy to clean. Mom purses, 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. Leather bags usually offer excellent resistance to stains and spilling, but excellent solutions can still be adopted with bag organisers (to divide dirty stuff) in the case of more delicate bags.
- Versatile in terms of style: If you often like to change your style, sporty, elegant, trendy, choose a classic bag that can adapt well to your outfits. Some bags quickly turn into backpacks for a quick change of look
- 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
You could also be interested in “The reality of travelling with twins and how to make it possible”!
HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST MODEL FOR YOU?
… Do you feel overwhelmed by the variety of choice? Don’t worry it’s normal, try to see the choice of best bags for moms with toddlers in a different way. Surely in your closet there are several bags that you use according to the commitments of the day, mood and outfit.
The bags in this article have been selected because they are functional when you are out with your kids, but they can also be used as an everyday bag, to go to the office, to the gym, or out to dinner.
Therefore if after analysing your needs you feel that a single model does not cover all situations, do not be discouraged, take two and treat them as normal bags to continue to use for years, until you are fed up with them.
My choice? As soon as I could I moved back to smaller bags (this is a personal preference). Travelling a lot I learned to pack smaller and smaller, when we travel for a few weeks my perfect combination is one of the 2 small TWELVElittle purses and the soft leather shopper, because i can pack it flat and it doesn’t get damaged. When I really can’t bring 2 bags with me then I go with the Chelsea downtown
WHAT ABOUT THE BEST BAGS FOR MOMS WITH TODDLER TWINS?
At this point, from a mother with twins you would expect a section dedicated to bags suitable for two children. Honestly even after a long search I have not found another product that it isn’t already in this list that meets all the requirements of aesthetics, capacity and functionality.
The best option is the Mominside tote bag which is among the most organised ones, and it is big enough to accommodate stuff for two little ones.
The only bag not on this list that I think is excellent for mothers of twins is the Skip Hop duo. It is well organised, roomy and comfortable. To clarify: I didn’t list it here only because it has a super recognisable design as a nappy changing bag and here I focused on multi-functional bags to be used on other occasions and not just as diaper bags.
I personally have used several bags and backpacks since Liam and Santiago were born. The first was the one coordinated to the Joolz Geo. While the stroller was one of the best investments we made, the bag was honestly a waste of money. It was poorly organised, difficult to access and too big to be hooked at the handlebar. From there, I tested various other options, often taking non-structured bags like the last on the list on trips and organising them with pouches.
It must also be said that even before children I was a big fan of bag organisers, which I found perfect for structuring normal bags with snacks, nappies, and various creams. In these cases I usually kept the changing mat separate and already organised with a couple of diapers, wipes, and cream.
RELATED: The only baby travel essentials packing list you need
BEST ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR BAG
Since the list includes many unorganised bags, here you will find some really useful accessories that will help you to not get mad when you are looking for something. As a result you will have everything under control and your bag will last even longer.
Bag organiser insert
A bag organiser insert is one of those objects that once you discover them you will never live without one anymore. When you go around you will always be able to find everything quickly. Today you can use them to organise baby stuff, tomorrow it will be all your stuff.
The one on the left is a more premium product, it is made in felt and comes in 3 sizes to really match the best to your bag. The one on the right hand-side may look more ordinary, but I personally really like that I can squash it easily also in smaller bags.
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 tote bag 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 left 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 handbags that come with a detachable shoulder strap will have eyelets on the side where you fix it. The same eyelets can usually be used to attach the bag to the stroller handlebar if you attach some hooks.
Portable changing mat
You probably already have a changing mat, but what makes this incredibly handy is the little storage space where to keep diaper, cream and wipes all together. If you use a generous bag it is really practical to keep this separate.
We used exactly this one for 3 years. It is super affordable and it stayed almost perfect till we didn’t need it anymore
I hope this guide helps you to choose the right bag for you for many years!
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