The D-Bag Dilemma

I am consistently dissatisfied with my choice in diaper bags.  After two kids and three diaper bags, I still haven’t found one that works for me.  I think I first started off with a large Eddie Bauer bag.  It was just way too big and burdensome, but I liked that it was a neutral color and didn’t scream “diaper bag!!”    My girl friend Francie gave me one that was handmade by a friend of hers and this one I ended up using for most of Liam’s babyhood years.  It was stylish, washable, and medium sized.  I ended up throwing it away after it pretty much was worn down.  It was also an over the shoulder bag which doesn’t work with two kids – one on the hip, one running circles around me.  But this bag was my favorite out of the three.

I currently have a SkipHop bag.  I like that it has a variety of small zipper pockets for my personal items.  And it is large enough for the needs of two kids.  But it has handles like a hand bag so it doesn’t feel good over the shoulder and what mom is going to carry a diaper bag in her hand?  I usually just end up leaving it in my trunk and throwing a few spare diapers in my own purse and some wipes.  It is rare that I am ever too far away from my car or the house.

But this weekend we are going to Philadelphia to visit our 10 year old daughter, Gabbie.  This will be the sisters first time meeting! So cute!  Anywho, these are the times I want a diaper bag that works for me.  Philadelphia is a walking city and not to mention a well packed diaper bag is key for any flight.

My girlfriend Amanda, who has been a nanny for years, prefers backpacks.  I like this idea, but I want something that has a bit more visual appeal so I can use it as a purse as well.  I’ve heard great things about Petunia Pickle bags and like the satchel model that converts to a back pack.  http://www.petunia.com/bags/sashay-satchel

But these are so pricey!!! And I’m not sure I want to hop on this trend wagon since I feel like every OC mom has one of these.  But I need a bag that works for me!  And I suppose I’m willing to spend over a hundred dollars if I’m satisfied.  And Joe and I are planning on having another baby.  (I know, we’re nuts, right?)  So, if I do spend money on a bag, and I like it – it will be put to good use.

Any diaper bag suggestions out there?