Diaper bags are an essential mom item. There’s no way that you could get around town with your little one without the aid of one of these customized bags. Although each diaper bag is different, they often include a lot of space for you to store all the items you may need throughout the day, lots of different pockets to help you organize, often a dedicated bottle holder and sometimes even a matching changing pad!

What you’ll need in your diaper bag will depend on a few factors such as how long the trip will be, your lifestyle and also the needs of your child. If you’ve never had a child before, you may not be exactly sure what the last two factors will involve, so here are a few questions to help you narrow down what kind of diaper bag would work best for you.

Ask other mums what they find the most useful aspects for a diaper bag

This works best if you ask a few friends, because everyone may have a slightly different idea of what is essential to bring and what could be optional.

How much room do you need?

While you’re taking into consideration what other moms would bring, think about how much space you’ll need.

Comfort

Is the bag easy to carry? What kind of strap would be the most comfortable for you? Do you want a shoulder bag style, a messenger bag style or a backpack?

Durability

Diaper bags go everywhere you and baby go, so you want to make sure that the bag you buy is strong enough to last.

Functionality

Make sure there are enough pockets for you to easily organize your items, this saves time and means you’re less likely to be digging through odds and ends trying to find a baby wipe!

Extra features

Lots of diaper bags include additional pieces such as a bottle holder/insulator or a changing pad. These are great because they are built to fit with the bag already and are already optimized to make sure you retain the most space in your bag.

Gender appropriate

If you have a diaper bag with darling flowers or your child’s favourite cartoon character all over it, dad might not be especially keen to use it. Think about his aesthetic or consider getting a bag just for him.

Diaper bags for all occasions

Not every occasion needs everything and the kitchen sink, but sometimes you do! Often one diaper bag won’t do the trick, so think about your lifestyle and consider purchasing more than one (see above with Gender appropriate) so you’re ready for all situations.

Diaper bags pictured from top to bottom:

• JJ Cole Mode Diaper Bag
• DadGear Professional Messenger Diaper Bag
• Mia Bossi Maria Diaper Bag
• Kalencom Midi Tote Diaper Bag

What’s one of the most important key aspects you look for when you’re shopping for a diaper bag?

Related posts:

1. A Diaper Bag for Dad
2. Double-Duty Diaper Bags
3. Moms and Dads Need Style Too
4. Hugs and Haute Couture
5. Going Green with Bottles & Bags