What is a diaper bag but a bag marketed to parents (and usually mothers)? New fathers have a lot of things to contend with. Girly diaper bags shouldn’t have to be one of them. Get yourself something you would be proud to be seen toting around the playground.
While you are contemplating that, consider a backpack instead of the cross body satchel. Backpack diaper bags are better for your back and come in a huge range of styles. Also, when your kid outgrows the need for diapers you have a perfectly serviceable backpack. That diaper bag with the cartoon characters on it is destined for goodwill or a landfill.
Backpack Diaper Bag
What makes a good backpack diaper bag? The same things in a standard cross body satchel diaper bag. Certainly enough capacity for diapers, snacks, and toys. So size is important. It needs to be easy to carry while wrangling your child. Side pockets, zippers, and compartments for sure! Organization and easy access without having to open up the bag is imperative. Easy to clean would be a good idea too…
Lastly I would advocate for long lasting. There is little reason to buy a cheap disposable bag you will destroy in 5 or less years. You get some savings in the short term but every time you touch it you know its cheap.
The Backpacks
L.L. Bean Waxed Cotton Continental Rucksack
The Waxed Cotton Continental Rucksack is a good choice. It’s got three exterior pockets for easy access to the things you need in a hurry. The main compartment is roomy and has mesh dividers and a security pocket for organization.
Its got rugged good looks with reinforced leather components and brass hardware. The waxed canvas should shed everything but the most intense downpour and should age wonderfully. This rucksack’s padded back and shoulders should keep you comfy on long outings.
Custom Hide Original Backpack
I am all for paying for quality and word on the style forums is that Custom Hide knows what they are doing. Their Original Large Leather Backpack is made in Arizona and should last a lifetime. Three external pockets are accessible without opening the main flap. An additional zippered pocket in the main compartment lets you secure things.
Leather is a bit heavier but it is easy to clean, ages really well, and looks sharp. If the price is a bit much for you Copper River has you covered with their Dublin Leather Backpack.
Domke F2 Backpack
The Domke F-2 Backpack
It has two external pockets for quick access. It’s main compartment is split into an upper level and a lower level giving you a lot of separation. The inside is full of sub pockets and zippered mesh pouches. Its made of a robust cotton canvas and has padded shoulder straps and back.
Not Down With The Backpacks
Filson 72-hour Tin Briefcase
Some of you are just not able to do the back pack thing and that is ok. My favorite manly diaper bag is the Filson 72 Hour Briefcase
The main compartment is protected by a rain flap as well as a beefy zipper. The main compartment is divided into partitions and has two internal pockets.
The tin cloth that this is made of is tough as nails and the bridal leather straps should last a really long time. Tho smaller than the backpack option this offers a lot of benefits.
Summary
All of these backpack diaper bag are good options. Remember you aren’t just buying a diaper bag you are buying a very versatile bag that should serve you well for years. Also if possible I think you should go find these bags and handle them. Make sure they are going to work for your unique needs. Or if you cant find them locally order them from a place with a good return policy.
Backpack diaper bags don’t look like diaper bags and that is reason enough for me.