What are the best non diaper bags for new moms?
Getting ready for baby is so exciting. You’re setting up a nursery, buying new little clothes, and dreaming about the days once your little one has arrived. One thing you don’t want to forget is the diaper bag.
Maybe you’ve had your eye on a diaper bag for a while or someone already gifted you one. Maybe the options that you’ve found just aren’t that appealing. Maybe they’re too big or aren’t stylish enough or won’t function with your lifestyle. Maybe you need something that dad is willing to carry. If you’re looking for a non-traditional diaper bag, here are the best diaper bag alternatives out there. There’s something for everyone, so I bet you’ll find something you love.
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Are diaper bags worth it?
With everything you need for a new baby (and it’s a lot), a diaper bag makes the most sense as a place to keep it all together. It’s a great idea to have it stocked, so it’s always ready to go for your next outing. With that being said, it’s completely up to you what you want to carry around. If you’re a minimalist, you’ll only want the essentials and a smaller bag would be your best bet. It’s your baby and you’re the one hauling around all the items for the next few years, so find a bag that fits your style and personality, and ignore what everyone says you “must have.”
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Do you need a big diaper bag?
You need a diaper bag that suits you. If you’re carrying a lot of items, have more than one kiddo, or are planning to use the diaper bag as an overnight bag, you’re going to need something larger. If you’re looking for something you can use when you run to the store, maybe something purse-size would be a better option. If you’re nursing, you probably won’t need space for bottles. And if you’re already carrying a small purse, you might be able to get away with just a changing pad. Look at all your options before making a decision. And don’t forget about dad. Pick something that he won’t mind carrying as well.
Related: 21 Diaper Bag Essentials for Newborns to Make Life Easy
What can I use instead of a diaper bag?
There are many options to use as a diaper bag alternative if you’re more interested in a non-traditional diaper bag. Consider a backpack, a clutch, a portable changing pad, a tote, or a duffle bag. If you already have an item that will work, use it. However, there are many chic and stylish options out there, and it never hurts to take a look.
Diaper Bag Alternatives: Backpacks
I love a good backpack to use as a diaper bag alternative. It allows me to throw the bag over my shoulder and not worry about it sliding around while I’m carrying my kiddo (and a million other things). My go-to is the Fastfinder Backpack below. But be sure to find one that’s right for you. There is the Large Backpack, which has room for everything and will easily hook onto your stroller. There is the Laptop Backpack, which has room for your laptop or tablet and battery chargers.
Try the Leather Mini Backpack, which is the perfect on-the-go diaper backpack. Or the Changing Station Backpack, which not only has a changing pad but is also enclosed, so your kiddo doesn’t sneak away. Or the Military Backpack, which dad is sure to love.
Diaper Bag Alternatives: Clutches
If you’re looking for a smaller diaper bag alternative, consider the clutch. While most clutches are only large enough to hold a few diapers and wipes, the Fashion Clutch and the Stroller Clutch also have enough room for a small bottle. Clutches are nice to use if you’re just going out for a short trip and don’t need to drag a large diaper bag along. The Crossbody Clutch and the Sensible Clutch will also hold your cash, credit cards, phone, keys, and makeup.
The Leather Clutch and the Diaper Pouch Clutch are also great to keep in a large diaper bag, so you don’t have to take the entire diaper bag to the changing room.

Diaper Bag Alternatives: Portable Changing Pads
Portable Changing Pads are also a nice diaper bag alternative if you’re only worried about diaper changes. Perfect for that breastfeeding momma, who doesn’t need to carry bottles. The Skip Hop Changing Pad comes in 5 different color options. Gimars Changing Pad has you completely covered with enough room for diapers, wipes, cream, bibs, and toys. The Lil Fox Changing Pad works well as an add-on to your diaper bag, as it holds diapers and wipes, so it’s the only thing you need when heading to the changing room.
The Alatino Changing Pad comes with a detachable changing pad in 2 color options. The Yeahome Changing Pad is waterproof and extra cushioned for baby’s comfort. The Rebebel Changing Pad has convertible straps for your shoulder or the stroller.
Diaper Bag Alternatives: Totes
While a tote seems more like a more traditional type of diaper bag, the totes I’ve rounded up here don’t necessarily look like a traditional diaper bag and each has its own unique appeal. The 5 Piece Tote (which comes with a pacifier pouch!) and the Stroller Tote offer the most storage. I love the Mini Tote because of its size and the Chic Tote because it’s so classy. The Camo Tote is a great option for dads. And the Convertible Tote is very sleek while still holding everything you need for the baby. And if you’re going to choose a feminine option, definitely get dad his own diaper bag alternative.
Diaper Bag Alternatives: Duffle Bags
Last, we have diaper duffle bags. I consider these to be maximum storage for all things baby. And while they might be too much for a quick trip to the store, they are perfect for overnight trips or vacations, packing for more than one kiddo, or can be used for travel as your little one grows.
For dads, go with the Tactical Duffle Bag. For maximum storage, use the Deluxe Duffle Bag, which comes in two colors. For a great grow with your baby option, consider the Travel Duffle Bag. If you want a diaper bag alternative the kids can use later, check out the Traditional Duffle Bag, as it comes in many designs. For the best diaper bag that is not a diaper bag, get the Foldable Diaper Bag. If you’re looking for something you can use after the diaper bag days are over, get the Weekender Duffle Bag.
Conclusion
There you have it: the 30 best diaper bag alternatives for new moms. Backpacks, clutches, portable changing pads, totes, and duffle bags make some of the best non diaper bags. Which non-traditional diaper bag is your favorite? Let us know in the comments.
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- Everything You Need for Your Baby’s Nursery

30 Best Diaper Bag Alternatives
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