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I’ve always wanted to be a minimalist. Have I done it? Nope. I’ve moved to a bigger house three times in three years and almost made it. Every time I move, I sell or donate a lot of stuff and the amount of stuff in my house is significantly reduced. Then I had kids and that not only doubled my stuff again, but it inspired me to find the best diaper fanny pack that could hold all my mommy essentials while keeping my hands free.
After having kids, my minimalist dreams seemed out of reach. Every aspect of my life was filled with stuff. My previously organized kitchen cabinets were now filled with 10 different types of bottles, the play area constantly looked like a rainbow had exploded, and my diaper bag was somehow 15 pounds heavier.
Let’s talk a little more about my diaper bag. While the rest of my home won’t be a minimalist haven anytime soon, I feel like my diaper bag situation could use an update. In the early days of motherhood, leaving the house was simply not an option. If you’re going to be away, you need to pack as if you were going to be gone for a week. You know, just in case.
But now my baby is past the newborn stage. While I still need to be fully prepared, my overflowing diaper bag is a bit overkill. I decided to streamline my bag and see if I could get by with a minimal number of bags. Instead of packing a large diaper bag (a classic from Freshly Picked that I absolutely love!), I went with the modern mom’s go-to: a fanny pack.
I’m not the first to think of a fanny pack as a possible alternative to a diaper bag. Some of the most popular diaper bag brands, like Dagne Dover, Storq, and Calpak, have entered the fanny pack market. Keep reading to find out why I love using fanny packs for diapers and to check out some of our favorites.
Using a diaper fanny pack allows me to travel light, keep my hands free, and keep everything I need close at hand. I love my diaper backpack, but every time I need to get something, I have to struggle. For short trips, a fanny pack is great because it fits a few essentials. It really puts my mind at ease.
These stylish and compact fanny packs are perfect for short trips like hiking or running errands. For trips that require driving, I keep essentials (toys, extra clothes, etc.) in the trunk. Once out of the car, I just need to grab the fanny pack. It’s also great for taking baby on a plane – it’s the perfect size to take into the airplane bathroom for a diaper change.
But to be clear, I’m not throwing away my diaper bag anytime soon. Sometimes you’ll still need a bag full of stuff when you leave the house. However, I’ve slowly realized that there’s no need to lug it around with me every time I go out. In many cases, a practical fanny pack will do the trick. While my home may be far from the minimalist paradise of my dreams, my diaper bag is pretty close.
When it comes to diaper belt bags, Kibou is the one that immediately comes to mind. Designed to accompany you on all your adventures, this leather changing bag features a built-in changing pad (plus a removable changing pad), water- and stain-resistant lining, and even special compartments for credit cards and cash. Click here to read our full review.
If you are looking for an inexpensive diaper belt bag, this 2-in-1 shoulder bag is the perfect choice. Not only does it allow you to store your essentials, but it also makes you look more fashionable. It also comes with a cute changing table that retains its original color and shape even after washing.
Calpak is an editor’s favorite brand, and we couldn’t help but add this best-selling fanny pack to the list. It’s lightweight and portable, has multiple pockets for easy storage, and can be a stylish everyday accessory!
Made from heavy-duty, machine-washable nylon, this large fanny pack can be worn around the waist as a fanny pack or across the chest. The bag also features a magnetic pocket that holds a changing pad.
This waist bag is a Dagne Dover bestseller, and rightfully so. It features a front zipped pocket and multiple interior compartments for all your quick travel essentials.
This bag is an updated version of the lululemon Everywhere fanny pack. It’s roomy enough and features internal and external pockets, so you’ll never have to worry about running out of space.
If you’re like many moms who love Fawn Design’s diaper bags, this one is a must-have. The bag is made from premium vegan leather and features a main zippered compartment that can easily hold everything from your purse to diapers and wipes.
It’s amazing how much you can fit into this little bag (it even has a cup holder!) It can be hung on your stroller or used as a waist bag or shoulder bag.
What makes this Lululemon fanny pack so popular is its incredible practicality. It’s a great alternative to a diaper bag, and it also has three mesh pockets inside to hold all your essentials.
Freshly Picked calls it a small but mighty “must-have bag for moms,” and we agree! It has a wide zipper, interior card slots, and plenty of room for diapers and wipes.
Replace your diaper bag with the BÉIS waist bag! It comes with a convertible strap so you can wear it over your shoulder, around your waist, or even attach it to your stroller. Plus, it comes in a variety of cute colors.
This waist bag has enough space for a diaper bag and daily essentials. Its minimalist design also suits your fashion preferences.
If you like the sporty style, the Patagonia Waist Pack is definitely for you. It’s durable, lightweight (only 3.5 ounces!), and waterproof. Plus, it’s easy to pack and folds into its own front pocket, making it perfect for slipping into a larger diaper bag.
If you were going to get a fanny pack, this is it. The MZ Wallace Crossbody Bag is perfect for carrying your essentials and looking stylish – whether you have a kid with you or not. It also comes with three strap options, meaning you can basically use it for three purposes (great idea for girls!).
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Amanda is a writer who specializes in health, wellness, and motherhood. She recently published a book, Pregnancy Tips, where she shares tips on how to navigate the ups and downs of pregnancy. She currently works at Babylist and lives in Maryland with her husband, three children, Millie, Ezra, and Sloan, and their dog, Ollie.
As an editorial assistant at Everymom Business, Gianna assists Everymom editors with creating new and writing existing articles, promoting and writing new content, and researching products for shopping lists. Writing is her passion, and she enjoys sharing her expertise in fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. Before joining Everymom, Gianna interned at Bump Club and Beyond and The Pretty Palm Leaf Event Company, where she found her passion in editorial content creation.