Until recently, the term “diaper bag” would connote a single design in the minds of new moms and dads: the classic, large polyester tote that hangs off of one shoulder. This design dominated for years; however, in 2022 more parents are finding that it’s easier to wear the bag on both shoulders, on their backs, or on their hips in order to keep their hands free.

While the tote is still out in full force, popular diaper bags in 2022 are veering away from this traditional design and taking on different forms like backpacks, belt bags and crossovers to fit the tastes of modern parents.

The most popular diaper bags this year vary in size and material in order to cater to a variety of parents with different lifestyles and needs. But what ties them all together are the key attributes today’s parents seek: they want versatility, functionality and style in their diaper bag.

Can I convert a bag I already have into a diaper bag?

Some women convert their cutest tote bags, purses and backpacks into diaper bags. It is totally possible to do; however, bags that were not made to function as diaper bags will lack certain features. For instance, you won’t find waterproof lining, or at least one waterproof pocket for wipes, soiled diapers or wet clothes. Also, insulated pockets for bottles, or a detachable changing mat won’t be there either.

Oftentimes when a mama tries to convert her purse into a diaper bag, it’s because she doesn’t like the way diaper bags look. We get it – aesthetics are important! Fortunately, today’s popular diaper bags offer plenty of fashionable choices.

What has made diaper bags popular this year?

The most popular diaper bags right now cater to several different types of parents, all of whom want something that looks good while being fully functional.

The minimalist shoppers want something small and stylish that can still fit the essentials that baby needs (bottle, diaper, wipes, mat, keys, money, phone, first aid, hand sanitizer). This is for quick trips out of the house or carrying onto the plane and keeping it nearby. In this category you’ll find belt bags (aka fanny packs), and mini-backpacks are trending right now.

Alternatively, for longer trips that require a larger bag or for families with multiple children in diapers, the most popular diaper bags have started moving away from the traditional tote and toward the more functional backpacks. In previous years, most of the diaper bag backpacks had more masculine/hiking/off-to-school vibes. Today, the most popular diaper bags in this genre have a more elegant design and some use leather-like material for a more slick look that can be dressed up or down.

Where To Buy A Popular Diaper Bag

Luckily, in 2022 there are multiple companies that can provide exactly what you’re looking for when it comes to your desired style and features in a diaper bag. We’ve compiled a list of the top three places to grab some of the most popular diaper bags this year.

#1 - Kibou

If you’re looking for a minimalist diaper bag, there’s no better place for you to shop than Kibou. These diaper bags have been more popular than ever before in 2022 and were made deliberately minimal, so they are just big enough to fit what you need and forces you to leave out this rest. This makes it much easier to find a paci in a hurry, keep both hands free to push swings or hold on to a little one, or quickly manage an unexpected blowout at the playground.

Each Kibou comes with a detachable changing pad in a back pocket that can be used for other things after baby grows out of diapers. It also features a waterproof pocket for wipes, a ring for keys or pacifier, and the front pocket has slots for credit cards and identification. The inside pocket is just big enough to fit a couple of diapers, a bottle, snack, plus your stuff i.e. phone, hand sanitizer, sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses and a small first aid kit (also available at Kibou).

What’s more, Kibou is designed as a fashionable belt bag (fanny packs are hugely popular this year) that can also be worn as a crossover. The 1.5” belt and buckle are also ergonomic/weight bearing. At $98, the vegan leather bags come in 6 colors. At $89, the canvas bags come in 2 colors. Both bags have a stain-resistant nylon lining, and all materials on the bag are compliant with the highest safety standards (California Prop 65). Both vegan leather and canvas styles are suitable for moms AND dads. The shop also has plenty of small essentials that will easily fit in your diaper bag.These very popular diaper bags are available from multiple retailers but can easily be purchased directly online.

#2 Skip Hop

There are a variety of diaper bag backpacks at Skip Hop that you can peruse. However, the Skip Hop Mainframe Wide Open Diaper Backpack is the most popular choice with parents this year in part because, as its name suggests, the main compartment opens very wide making it easier to find things. This is a bigger bag that can fit diapers, extra outfits, blankets and booties along with everything else. It also has a changing pad included as well as stroller straps making it easier to carry along.

The Mainframe Wide Open bag comes in four different colors for $75. It has a total of 7 pockets, adjustable backpack straps as well as top handles. The fabric is made of polyester.

#3 Freshly Picked

For a larger backpack diaper bag that is made with a sleek design, Freshly Picked’s Class Diaper Bag is a great choice. Like the Skip Hop backpack, this popular diaper bag has enough space for essentials + extras for longer trips or perhaps if you have multiple little ones in diapers. It also has a detachable changing pad and is made with a vegan leather exterior and stain resistant nylon interior lining.

At $199, this beautifully styled backpack diaper bag has 10 pockets and a magnetic front flap for easy close. It can be worn as a backpack, cross-body or purse.

Which popular diaper bag is best for you?

Depending on your lifestyle and personal style, the most popular bags in 2022 offer stylish and functional options for both moms and dads. When your needs require more stuff with you, you’ll need a bigger bag. In those cases, we suggest you opt for an option that makes it easier to dig through your stuff.

For small diaper bag fans, be sure to browse our shop to see how a Kibou can serve you. Designed to keep your hands free and make your trips out of the house less stressful (or keep your essentials close by you when traveling), our popular diaper bag has been a hit for new moms across the country. Baby Shower Bundles are also available, including some of our most popular accessories for both mom and baby.