Whether you are hitting the high street or going on an adventure, rucksack changing bags are ideal when you're on the go with your little one. The best feature of a rucksack changing bag are the hands-free convenience – we all know the importance of having both hands free when you have a toddler by your side.
You may be wondering if you can just use a normal rucksack as a changing bag. The benefits of using a rucksack changing bag over a normal one are vast. These changing bags have been specifically designed to cater for all of the many things your baby may need whilst you are out of the home. Many of the changing bags will have more compartments than regular ones as well as multiple pockets.
The best rucksack changing bags at a glance:
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Best rucksack changing bag for mobility: Skip Hop Forma Backpack - Buy on Amazon
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Best rucksack changing bag for design: Neo and Nessa changing backpack - Buy on Neo and Nessa
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Best rucksack changing bag for water resistance: Comfy Degree baby changing bag - Buy on Zugati
Another big advantage of these bags is the number of pockets – meaning you can have a particular place for your assortment of baby products.
Once you start using a backpack as a changing bag, you won't want to change to any other style. And once you go beyond needing a changing bag (we cannot WAIT for that day), you can stick with a rucksack handbag – we've also chosen our favourites of these too. We've searched for the best rucksack changing bags on the market today:
Best rucksack changing bags
Best rucksack changing bag for mobility
AmazonAwarded Gold at the Mother&Baby Awards 2022
With the Skip Hop Forma Backpack, function meets fashion. All your baby's essentials will fit perfectly in this gorgeous quilted bag, and you can easily bottle-feed on the go thanks to the two insulated side pockets. The spacious interior has room to tote everything from snacks to spare outfits, and the extra-wide opening makes it easy to find essentials in a pinch. The front compartment includes 2 multi-purpose packing cubes and allows for extra storage. The changing pad pocket performs double duty, acting as a laptop holder when travelling.
Mum tester Rachel said: "Lots of space for all essential baby bits and pieces. Really easy access to main compartment, making it easy to get at things when you need them quickly. Storage cubes are an additional bonus and help keep everything neat and tidy. The pocket at the front is ideal for phone and keys so they don't get lost amongst the baby stuff! An insulated pocket for bottles/snacks is all it's missing."
Read our full Skip Hop Forma Backpack Review
Pros
- The Baby diaper bag keeps all baby essentials organized, featuring multiple interior and exterior pockets and packing cubes.
- Spacious enough, 16"x8"x14", to hold everything for baby Plus some for you.
- Included with the diaper bag are two packaging cubes; one insulated cube perfect for bottles and beverages and a multipurpose mesh cube for clothing or snacks.
Cons
- The inside of the bag only has two pockets in the main compartment.
Best rucksack changing bag for size
Shortlisted for the Mother&Baby Awards 2022
Featuring Peter Rabbit on an easily wipe-down PU fabric, off-set against pastel splashes of colour on a cool grey background, this changing backpack measures 37cm x 28cm and is perfectly sized to fit everything a baby and mum might need while enjoying a day out together, just like Peter and Mrs Rabbit.
Mum tester Michelle said: "I opened and used this as soon as it arrived, it's such a wonderful bag, with many pockets which make it easier to store everything you need when taking the baby out. It's a really good size too, which makes it easier as quite often you either get one too small or on the opposite scale way too big, especially once filled. The size of this is absolutely ideal."
Read our full Peter Rabbit Changing Backpack Review
Pros
- It has loads of little cubbies within the bag and holds loads.
- Lightweight and easy to adjust the straps.
Cons
- Zipper is not strong.
Best rucksack changing bag for sustainability
AmazonWinner of the 2020 Mother&Baby Awards Silver Best Baby Changing Bag Award
This is not just super useful but eco-friendly and sustainable too. It's made from 89 per cent recycled polyester, which is made from recycled plastic bottles, with plenty of compartments inside to make things organised. You'll feel well-equipped and prepared for every time you leave the house.
Mum tester Gladys said: "I absolutely loved this bag. From the moment it arrived I knew we were a good match. It is the perfect mixture of stylish, sturdy, practicality and quality. What I love most is the way the main compartment opens right up giving a really clear view of what you have. Everything has a home. Love Love Love it! Even my husband wanted to nab it for himself."
Read our full LÄSSIG Green Label Goldie Diaper Backpack, Bouclé Review
Pros
- Large main compartment and additional outer + inner compartments
- Water-repellent changing mat and zip pouch
Cons
- Hand wash only
Best rucksack changing bag for design
www.neoandnessa.com
Neo & Nessa changing bags stand out from the crowd and are made to grow with you as a parent. The detachable clutch means it can be used as a changing bag, travel bag, or for work, you always have a handbag with you ready to grab your essentials. With a range of stylish designs available, we love the Rhian khaki and rose gold leopard print.
Our tester said: "I think this is a brilliant changing bag, both in terms of design and functionality, I love the khaki leopard print. The additional bottle bag, changing mat and clothing bag were great but I'd have preferred to have a choice of print. Having a detachable handbag was a game-changer and I think the versatility of this bag is hard to beat, they've really considered the design to make it ideal for family time, travel and mums. It may be on the pricier side, but I think for the quality and the length of time that you'd be able to use this (ie well beyond the baby/toddler stage) then it's worth the spend."
Read our full Neo & Nessa changing backpack Review
Pros
- Great capacity and storage solutions
- Love the detachable handbag
- Range of modern and stylish designs
Cons
- Only one design available for changing mat etc
Best rucksack changing bag for compartment
AmazonThis stylish backpack from Lekebaby is made from high-grade polyester fabric with a waterproof treatment. Inside lining is water-resistant and easily wipe-clean too, perfect for mums on the go. We all know there is nothing worse than reaching into a bag which is soaked in spilt milk.
This bag holds a whopping 23 litres and has 19 pockets, including one side tissue pocket, two quick-reach insulated milk bottle pockets on the front and waterproof pocket for wet clothes or diapers.
Review: "Just got this bag today. At first, I was sceptical about the size but now I have filled it up and have loads of room to spare. Managed to fit 5 nappies 4 changes of clothes 5 bibs, a bag of toys a bag of medicine, nappy bags, a spoon, a pen, a cup, and a comforter all on the inside with room to spare!!! Once the zip is done up it's not too bulky. The zip can be a tiny bit difficult to close but just need to get used to it. Haven't taken it out yet."
Pros
- Handsfree: If you are travelling or need your hands free or your back hurts, this is your bag.
- S-shape shoulder straps for comfortable walking.
- Convenient: The baby changing rucksack can be wide-open, making it very easy to fill or take out your stuff. Nappies and clothes can be taken out from the lower back without digging from the top of the bag.
Cons
- Hand wash only
Best rucksack changing bag for water resistance
www.zugati.co.uk
ComfyDegree Baby Changing Bag is made with high-quality and water-resistant fabric, plus it's really spacious. It's available in two other colourways and is really lightweight (until you fill it with all your stuff, that is!).
Review: "Love this baby bag. Good quality with a USB charging port and several compartments. Changing mat included. Can heat up milk in the front pocket. So happy with this."
Pros
- High quality and multi-purpose!
- Stoller straps to secure nappy bag in your strollers.
- USB charging design to keep the milk bottle warm or to charge your phone.
- Laptop padded pocket.
- A milk heating bottle warmer, it has two thickened pockets with aluminum insulation layer for keeping milk warm about 2-4 hours. With secured and fireproof Insulation heating chip. (Keep Temperature Up to 40°C-50°C).
Cons
- Hand wash only
Best rucksack changing bag for a newborn
bababingbababing.com
We love this chic grey changing rucksack that has all the features a changing bag requires. The stylish grey mani backpack can be used as a conventional rucksack or as a tote-style bag using robust carry handles. The rucksack can also be easily attached to the pushchair with the use of the free pushchair clips provided, making it even easier for long day trips.
Review: "Bag looks very smart and fits lots. All packed for the arrival of baby!"
Pros
- An affordable yet practical changing backpack that has all the features a changing bag requires.
- The stylish mani backpack can be used as a conventional backpack or as a tote style bag using the strong carry handles.
Cons
- Only three colours to choose from.
Best rucksack changing bag for multiple pockets
AmazonWe love the stylish design of this Pipi Bear Changing Bag rucksack. With 16 pockets, there is plenty of room for all your little one's essentials, and the wet/dry pocket is great for nappy changes.
Review: "Love it! I love the colour, looks waterproof, loads of good pockets. It fits everything I need for the baby for the hospital, can't wait to use it! Even my husband loves it."
Pros
- Large capacity with 10.6"x8.2"x16.5"(23.8L)
- Smart organizer system helps to keep baby essential items orderly and organized because the baby diaper bag has over 13 multifunctional pockets to load all items, thus, you can easily find out the things you need.
- Casual baby diaper backpack with extra wide opening for quick access.
- Sturdy D-ring, key clip, wet and dry compartments, hidden anti-theft pocket and one of the side pockets with opening design.
- Zippered opening on the back allows you to pick up what's on the bottom of the bag without having to turn everything out.
Cons
- Quite pricey.
Best rucksack changing bag for baby's bottles
Homened Rucksack Changing Bag is multi-functional and comes with big specific compartments. There are three insulated pockets in the first compartment plus another insulated pocket inside the main compartment – plenty of room for baby's bottles and water.
Review: "Excellent baby bag, loads of room and lots and pockets, there is a waterproof pocket on the inside of wet clothes and comes with a separate insulated bottle pouch, even has a pocket for a power bank and USB lead that has a socket on the outside of the bag to plug into. feels really well made and should easily accommodate the stuff needed for my toddler and newborn in one bag. Well worth the money."
Pros
- High Quality Fabric: Made of high quality Oxford 600D fabric, comfortable anti-water material, easy to clean. Do not worry about spilling milk or water on the bag
- Easily adjustable straps and soft lining provide a soft usage experience even with a heavy load. Easy to put on and take off.
Cons
- Hand wash only.
Best rucksack changing bag for essenstials
www.thenappylady.co.uk
**In 2020 this bag won an award at the Mother&Baby Awards.
**
This bag from Bambino Mio fits all the essentials you'll need for your baby or toddler, with a unique, waterproof 'messy' pocket and a unisex style for all the family. This bag comes with free pram clips making travelling even easier.
Our mum tester Hayley said: "This bag makes life easier as a mum for many different reasons. Firstly the number of pockets on the bag itself it's brilliant. There is literally a place for everything you could possibly need. I think pockets make life easier so everything you need isn't just shoved into one place which can make it very difficult to find. I love the way there are different options to carry the bag. I find using it as a backpack was easiest."
Pros
- Bambino Mio's change bag for reusable nappy users is compatible with cloth nappies & perfect to fit all your essentials from birth to toddler, hospital to school and more.
- Spacious main compartment with an open-wide mouth and organisation made easy with multiple smart external and internal pockets for all your essentials.
Cons
- Does not include a changing mat.
Best rucksack changing bag for durability
www.zalando.co.uk
This Lassig Green Label Tyve backpack was shortlisted in the 2020 Best Baby Changing Bag Award, and for good reason, as it's extremely practical and would make a great backpack once you're past the changing bag phase.
Mum tester Israa said: "This is a funky-looking backpack. It's an unusual design but practical and durable. I love that it's an environmentally friendly company that has thought about what materials they use, and the bag is recyclable. The bag itself is super soft and squashable. It's lightweight, tear-resistant, water-repellent and durable. You can wipe it clean with ease.
"The bag comes with an insulated bottle bag, 2 holders to attach to the pram, and a zippable purse that would be great for creams and potions. It can be worn as a backpack, as a shoulder bag, or by holding the handle at the front. Sadly there is no padding on the shoulder straps or back straps, but at least you don't have to faff around to switch from one to the other. You can also clip it to your pram (a great feature). There's also a water-repellent changing mat."
Read our full LÄSSIG Green Label Tyve Diaper Backpack Review
Pros
- The Green Label Tyve backpack impresses with its puristic look and functionality.
- The changing backpack has a matte surface with paper-touch look. The innovative material combines several impressive properties.
Cons
- Made from polyester.
Best rucksack changingf bag for hassle-free
AmazonShortlisted in the 2020 Mother & Baby Awards Best Baby Changing Bag Award
Our mum tester Sarah said: "The Babymoov Le Sancy changing bag makes life easier as a mum because it has multiple compartments which allows you to organise the baby bits. There is an easy-to-access compartment on the front with a changing mat and three inner pockets for changing supplies within this front pocket and furthermore an easy-to-access insulated pocket on the back.
"These two easy-to-access pockets make it quick and easy to find probably the two most frequently used groups of items required for baby quickly and hassle-free. I also especially liked the fact that this changing bag was designed as a backpack which allowed me to be hands-free, and that the backpack straps had stroller clips. The back was padded which made it comfortable to wear."
Read our full Babymoov Le Sancy Backpack Review
Pros
- Plenty of storage compartments in the changing pocket to store wipes, nappies, etc.
- There is a large insulated compartment at the base of the bag as well as an elasticated side pocket.
- This changing bag has a capacity of 26 to 36 litres.
- It is suitable for all occasions.
- Fasten the large zip fastening, roll up the top of the bag when not in use!
Cons
- The straps are limited on how tight they can go.
Remember, lots of new mums experience bad post-partum back pain, as their abdominal muscles are weakened after giving birth - to their bundle of joy. What you don't want to do is make it worse by taking trips around with an uncomfortable heavy bag. Make sure you’re not carrying too much in your changing bag.
A backpack changing bag is, without a doubt, useful for reducing the weight on your shoulders and back. With two straps, the weight of your baby's essentials is distributed evenly. This can help lessen the impact on your body.
Finding the right rucksack changing back that best suits you is very important, When deciding on the best product, bear in mind that you need to think about what it can offer you. Choosing practicality over colour or style sounds kind of unreal, but you’ll definitely need a bag that gives you that peace of mind when going out with your little one.
How we test and choose recommended products
Our product recommendations are based on a combination of real-world testing from our burgeoning army of mum testers and the extensive knowledge of our experienced editorial team and product specialists. Where we can, we also consult experts who specialise in that field to ensure you get the right advice along with the right product, and we listen to what you say as well.
Our thriving mum community on our Facebook group #mumtribe consistently provides great insights into which products mums like best and why, helping us highlight the products that will meet your needs.
For essential products, our annual Mother&Baby Awards shortlist the top products tested. Full reviews from our mum testers can be found on our product pages. The winners and runners-up for each category will also appear in our top picks article for that product, along with other products that were rated highly by our team.