Let’s start with the magic words: “Machine Washable.” I could drop the mic right there, and some of you would already be sold. (I know I was.) This is my first experience with a Ju-Ju-Be diaper bag, and I am beyond impressed.
While a backpack diaper bag might not be suitable for every occasion (your cousin’s wedding, for example), it works seamlessly for the more casual everyday adventures (playground, library, zoo, botanical gardens, etc.). Our family loves to get outside and go exploring, but with a baby, a toddler and all their stuff, this is no simple feat. Sometimes I feel as if a diaper bag is like a whole other person to haul in and out of the car. The Ju-Ju-Be Be Right Back Diaper Backpack is the perfect solution for any parent or caregiver, who like us, has more than their two arms can handle.
Ju-Ju-Be makes its bags in a variety of prints sure to fit any style. I decided on “The Queen of the Jungle” because the leopard pattern felt like the perfect pop of print to contrast all my activ wear. Right out of the box, the pattern of the bag energetically jumps out at you, almost screaming “take me somewhere fun!”
The fabric is thick nylon and covered in Teflon™ fabric protector—bye-bye stains from sticky little fingers! The gold metal hardware is really good-looking against the leopard. The zippers are thick and long, which makes all the pockets really easy to open (just ask my toddler, who got into her snack bag before dinner).
The bag features almost too many pockets to count! I now feel like one of those gorgeous mom bloggers who has all their stuff perfectly organized without even trying. Ju-Ju-Be has thought of everything when it comes to organization, and this bag is designed as a workhorse.
There is a lined cellphone pocket, two exterior Thinsulate™ by 3M™ insulated bottle/drink pockets, a top easy-grab pocket, changing pad pocket (memory foam coordinated changing pad included), an exterior flat pocket (perfect for tickets and maps), a pocket with a keyring and sunglasses case, plus the main storage compartment which basically looks like a posh suitcase. The interior of the bag features light-colored linings (so you can actually find things) and is treated with Agion® to protect the liner by inhibiting the growth of odor-causing bacteria, mold and mildew.
Packing the Be Right Back up for two kids was easy, and I still have plenty of room leftover for all the “cool” rocks, sticks and “fancy” stickers from grocery stores we inevitably “need” to bring home with us. I love that they included a memory foam changing pad that matches the print of the bag. The changing pad has its own designated pocket, so it’s easy to grab and go when needed or to pass along for someone else to do the changing duties.
Once on, the shoulder straps of the bag are quick to adjust, ergonomically curved and also padded for comfort. The bag feels reasonably lightweight and maneuvers well on and off. There is a thick grab top handle, but I only wish they had included an additional (or transitional) strap to attach and also carry the bag messenger style. The backpack reminds me a bit of being back in high school, but the functionality of it far outweighs any teenage feelings that creep in. I am actually able to wear my infant in a baby carrier and have the diaper bag on with both hands free to wrangle my toddler.
This bag would also work well for any student or traveler, who is not lugging children around. The main compartment of the backpack opens flat like a suitcase. There are additional interior pockets and one side of the main compartment is a full-zippered mesh panel that can help keep clothing (or other items) separate and organized. I will definitely take this as my carry-on bag the next time I fly.
The only hiccup I have had with the bag thus far has been turning, forgetting I am wearing a backpack, and knocking into something (or someone). Other than that, this bag is phenomenal, and I can’t get enough.
Price: $155
To buy: shop.ju-ju-be.com
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