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The Best Diaper Bag Totes for Moms

As a third time parent, you know what baby gear is actually essentials. You’ve also probably learned that you need far less “stuff” with you when you’re on the go. Choosing the perfect diaper bag probably seemed so important with your first, and I’m not sure who tricked us into thinking that a bag with a million pockets was the answer. A tote is usually a big bag that is open with roomy interiors. Switching to a tote bag with a few diapers, wipes, rash cream, and a backup outfit in a zipper pouch was the perfect choice as a mom of three. It felt so much simpler, but I was also in a very different mindset with my third baby. I’m also going to share my trick for having instantly warm bottles on-the-go. So today, I want to share the best diaper bags that aren’t actually diaper bags.

The Best Diaper Bag Totes for Moms and What’s In My Tote

When you become a parent for the first time, you might find yourself over-preparing to head out the door with way too much stuff for your new baby. You might think you need a baby bag with an adjustable shoulder strap, lots of pockets, a changing pad for diaper changes, and all the baby essentials. But it turns out that baby’s needs are actually quite simple, and a traditional diaper bag isn’t a must-have. Now if you want a diaper bag, you should get one. Although I’ve only ever seen one stylish diaper bag that I actually like, and it no longer exists.

By the time you have your third baby, you’re no longer a new parent. You realize that even the most stylish diaper bags aren’t actually cute, and that you don’t actually need one. Baby’s needs are actually quite simple. If you’re looking for the best diaper bag, I’m here to suggest that you buy a tote that you love. Fill it with pouches made of easy-to-clean materials. Transferring stuff in pouches is also a lot easier than unloading a bunch of pockets.

Why I Ditched the Diaper Bag for a Tote-Style Diaper Bags

By the time I had my third baby, I realized what baby’s essentials actually are. After trying out a regular backpack and even a messenger bag, I found that I really prefer a tote. Tote bags are great for everyday use, and dare I say that you might feel more like yourself carrying a tote that you love as opposed to a diaper bag? And no, you do not need a diaper bag tote with plenty of pockets. Bottle pockets? Adjustable straps? Who needs them!

Just opt for a tote bag with a few well-organized pouches in the main compartment for easy access. I do like an interior zipper pocket for all the little things I don’t want to get lost at the bottom of my tote. If your tote doesn’t have a zipper pouch, this is a great option for personal items. I like to keep my wallet, keys, cell phone, and other small items together. I also prefer an open tote over a zip-top closure and like something with shoulder straps as opposed to a crossbody.

You also don’t need a backpack diaper bag. When you have less stuff, a shoulder bag will do. You’ll be comfortable carrying it, because it’s not packed with every baby item you might need (but actually won’t). You just need a functional tote with large capacity that looks good and feels comfortable to carry. I keep a travel stroller in our car since it takes up less space and does the trick. Add a few stroller straps to attach your tote to the stroller handlebars.

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The Best Mom Bags

When my son was an infant, I really simplified my diaper bag system. I learned that a tote is not only a functional bag, but that it’s truly the perfect bag for parents. You don’t need dedicated compartments for every little item in your bag, and I’d argue all those pockets and compartments can make searching for what you need even harder. A big, open tote has ample space for all your stuff.

There are a few things to consider. Look at the the interior linings of the bags you’re interested in, and find something that can handle spills. Only packing the actual essentials really helps. I eventually shifted to leaving a bag with diapers, wipes, and a foldable changing pad in the car. I realized that I no longer needed a bottle warmer. Gone are the days are bringing a diaper bag into the grocery store. I could bring a thermos water bottle full of warm water to mix with his formula. Grab a few bottles, some pre-measured formula, and you’re good to go. There’s not much else baby needs. These stylish bags may even have you feeling more like yourself when you’re running around with your kids. From vegan leather to canvas totes, these are my favorite mom bags.

Cuyana

Leather Tote

This tote is the perfect size for moms, and features two strap lengths, so it can be carried different ways.

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Naghedi

Vegan Tote

I have two of these bags and love them! They are lightweight and unstructured, so they're easy to carry. I love the great price, too.

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Alex Mill

Tote

This canvas bag can be customized with your initials or baby's initials, and comes in a few colors, too.

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LL Bean

Boat and Tote

This bag is a must-have for everyone. It's made of a nice canvas material and can be monogrammed. Each of my kids have the XL version, and we have medium and large versions, too. It has a few interior pockets that will help keep you organized, and is great for travel or everyday and has a timeless look that works with everything. It's great for travel days, too.

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Il Bisonte

Large Canvas Shopper Tote Bag

This beautiful bag would be a perfect mom bag. It's big, stylish, and you'd actually feel good carrying it.

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Goyard

Tote

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Chloe

Tote

This tote has sturdy yet chic contrast top handles and snaps on each side that allow you to switch up the shape and size for those days when you need a little extra room. It's one I'd use for longer days out or during the newborn stage as I had a little more to carry with bottles and formula.

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What I Keep in my Large Diaper Bag Tote

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Bottle essentials: As a third time mom, I packed 2 baby bottles, warm water in a thermos, and a small container of formula. We eventually switched over to sippy cups, and eventually, water bottles. As long as the cup has a cap or is leakproof, it can be tossed right in your tote.

Changing mat: I have this one and this one which takes up even less space.

Diapers: Keep 2 or 3 diapers and diaper wipes in a pouch in your tote, but I also throw a few extra diapers and wipes in the car just in case.

Extra outfit: I usually just brought one change of clothes, and now that my son is 2 years old, don’t usually bring an outfit if we’re only going out for a few hours. Dangerous, I know.

One or two small toys: All three of my kids loved this light-up toy and this sensory toy. And I always had them attached to these straps so he doesn’t lose them.

For the big kids: If we’re going to dinner, I have a small pouch with gel pens and other activities to keep them busy. These items take up minimal space, are virtually weightless, and my kids love them.

Band-aids: We actually do need them all the time. I love this mini band-aid kit and keep a small disinfecting spray inside.

The Best Pouches for Keeping A Diaper Bag Tote Organized

A wipeable or washable zipper pouch will help you keep your tote organized. I usually store diapers and wipes in one pouch, and any other essentials in another. These pouches all have a water-resistant exterior and interior, and can handle messy spills,. They’ll keep your things organized, too. Choosing something made of waterproof material will keep the bag clean over time, so it’s not a must, but is my personal preference. Durable materials last longer, so choose wisely. These come in different colors and patterns, so choose two different prints, or have them monogrammed.