It’s All In The Bag: The Budget Edition

I’ve been putting off getting a new diaper bag for much too long. You see, I recently ventured out to a restaurant for dinner with my kids and another family when disaster struck. The kids meals were taking way too long to arrive and there was lots of horrendous behavior ensuing. My designer diaper bag, which was resting innocently on an empty seat, was knocked to the ground and the delicious bottle of pinot tucked safely inside exploded (red wine was treat for surviving meal). Never mind that I was carrying around wine with size 5 diapers or that the digital camera was inside, the bag which I splurged on was a goner. Since that day I’ve been carting around an old LL Bean bag circa 1995. So now that some time has passed and I’ve recovered from the dining experience, I am ready to find a new bag. This time around I’m on a budget and realize that practical is a must. Here’s what I’ve found so far.

1. British Invasion! London’s famous designer, Anya Hindmarch is desinging for Target. She’s the original “I’m Not A Plastic Bag” gal. This PVC plastic bag, with inside and outside pockets, would make a great diaper bag during the day and easily transition for those nights out with the girls. $49.99 is recession proof.

2. Hippie Chic. Another find from the Mossimo line at Target.com. The distressed gray is a hot color this season. Outside pockets are great for bottles and sippy cups. At $29.99 even my husband would approve.

3. Print Envy. If you like bold prints, Toss Designs is your place to find a bag. Totally practical and spacious with multiple pockets, a matching changing pad and the wipe clean material is great for easy clean-up. Love the geometric prints and retro colors like the Medallion, Palermo and Montauk Chevron best. $148 isn’t bad for indestructible (take that red wine!).

Hey, PN readers send us your creative finds for diaper bags. It doesn’t have to be an official diaper bag, just a roomy and resilient bag that’s stylish and easy on the wallet. My husband keeps trying to tell me that in this economy, “If you can’t eat it, you can’t buy it!” Well, one little bag won’t hurt….