Customer Reviews

Columbia Baby Backpack With Ripstop Trim

5 star:		(45)
4 star:		(12)
3 star:		(10)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

I recently purchased this bag in order to have a hands-free carrying option. The built-in insulated bottle compartment nicely fits 2 bottles with an ice-pack. So I don't need to carry a separate bottle bag in the main compartment (however, this bag has adequate space to hold a 4-bottle bag inside, with room for other stuff too). Adequate space in the main compartment, stands up on its own so the bottles don't tip over and leak. This bag has served me well, and I would definitely recommend it if you're looking for a backpack.

I got this Columbia Baby Backpack because a backpack would be easier to carry around Disneyland than my shoulder diaper bag. It is comfortable to wear when I have both arms through the straps, but I find it is uncomfortable with just one arm through a strap. It has a small plastic handle at the top for lifting and carrying the bag, which I find very useful. The backpack has a big, flat base and easily sits upright. As with all Columbia products I've owned, this backpack is made of durable material that has not yet stained or scuffed. The shoulder straps each have small strips of canvas with snaps to attach the backpack to a stroller. They are difficult to use and I have never been able to get the left one around my stroller bar and snap it into place. I've succeeded with the right one and it hung from the stroller just fine, but the effort it takes me to hold the backpack up and snap the strap in place is too much to be worth it. This is especially true because I have a light stroller and the backpack has to come off each time before I remove my child or the whole stroller will tip over. The shoulder straps and the back of the bag which rests against my back are covered with some sort of mesh material. This may be to allow my skin to breathe, but I find that my lower back sweats and my shirt is wet after carrying the bag for a couple of hours in 65 to 75 degree weather.

The backpack has a large main pocket with zippers that come from each side of the base (like most backpacks) so that it can be opened just a bit at the top or all the way. This main compartment has three pockets along its sides. They have elastic at the top to help keep items in it. The pocket at the back is tall and I usually put five size 6 diapers, a wipes case and three jars of baby food in it. The two side pockets are only a few inches tall and not very useful to me. I find it difficult to reach down along the side around the things I have in the main pocket to get to the things I have in these small pockets. When I do use them, I put a bib, burp cloth and feeding spoons in one pocket and a Clif Bar in the other. My complaint with the main pocket is the same as with all diaper bags - it's just too big to keep anything organized. I usually have a change of clothes, a hat, a camera and some snacks in there and if I want something at the bottom, I end up messing up everything I packed to get to it. When I was looking at backpacks, I saw a Catrini one which had its main compartment separated into three sections. I thought this was great, but overall that backpack was too big and heavy for day trips. If my Columbia backpack were separated into two sections, one for clothes and one for smaller loose items, that would be ideal. There is also a vertical zipper on one side of the main pocket to allow quick access to what is inside. I find this useful when I want to take one arm out of the strap, swing the bag to my side and slip an empty bottle or my sunglasses in there. One side of the backpack has an insulated pocket for milk. I can fit two 9-ounce Avent bottles in there with a small package of blue ice, but the milk does not stay cold for long. I am better off putting one bottle and two blue ices in that pocket and putting the other bottle with blue ice in the main pocket. There is another pocket of the same size on the opposite side of the bag. It has a couple of netted pockets and a small plastic pocket inside. This small pocket has a picture of a pacifier next to it so I think that's what it was intended for, but it fits my cell phone perfectly. The larger netted pockets are perfect for sunscreen, antibacterial lotion, tissues and other small items. There is also a clip inside which I think is meant for keys, but I prefer to keep my wallet and keys in my pockets where they are more difficult for someone to steal. There is also a small sleeve-type pocket on the front of the backpack. It's not useful for much. I put a Disneyland park map in it. I would prefer it to be bigger and have a zipper.

Lastly, the bag comes with some diaper changing accessories which I don't use because the Disneyland bathrooms have all I need. There is a mat with a couple of pockets on it, perhaps to put wipes, and it has an additional bag with a plastic zipper, which would probably be useful for dirty diapers. The mat has a snap closure and a loop to hook it to something. If I used this bag for my regular daily activities, I'm sure these changing accessories would be quite useful.

Approximate Dimensions : Height 15" Width top 9", base 13" Depth 9" taken at the deepest point. I love this bag, it has everything! I especially like the additional straps to allow me to attach the bag to my pushchair, which is a great feature to have when I am shopping as I can get to things quickly. The bag has two zips to access the main compartment, the main zip opens all the way round, making packing a breeze! It appears the zipper would accomodate a lock should it ever be required. My previous rucksack had a drawstring top which meant everything got scrunched up and it was a pain to keep undoing. The smaller zip at the front means I can access baby's things on the go, without the risk of anything falling out. The diaper changing mat is a great size and has its own elasticated pocket in the main compartment which would easily house wipes, creams and diapers. Although Columbia have attached two plasic sleeves to the changing mat with this in mind. There is also a separate plastic sleeve for dirty duds. There are two additional pockets inside the main bag for toys or personal belongings. The insulated compartment on the right hand side, would easily hold two bottles and a light lunch for an older child, another reason for my purchase. The compartment on the left, has a keyring, two deep mesh pockets and a plastic/wipeable pocket for a dummy/soother. The bag stands up on its own, which means drinks won't tip up and leak out. The smaller pocket located on the front could hold a small toy or book. This bag is perfect for baby things aswell as a few essentials for older siblings. Well done Columbia and thank you for producing a high quality, functional bag at a great price. My husband gave it a thumbs up too!

I recieved this diaper bag at my baby shower and I LOVE it! It is the perfect sixe (not too big, like the cutesy themed ones) and very stylish... A couple of features I didn't know about were the straps have pull out snap staps to attach the bag to your stroller. Also the changing pad has 2 attached waterproof bags for diapers, wipes, and "dirty duds". There is also an extra "dirty duds" bag. The main copartment can be accessed through two zippers, one that opens the bag really wide to get at anything and the other just to grab something quick. There are 2 side pockets one is insulated and fits two bottles, the others has a couple of pockets for anything, a clip for you keys, and even a little pouch specifically for a pacifier. I think this is a really good buy and I'm glad I got it! A friend og mine is ordering one for herself!

I bought this backpack for my 2 year old. After going through three other diaper bags this one is hands down the winner. It's attractive, extereemely durable and well made(made by Columbia)and is comforatable to wear. The extra little straps on each shoulder are great for attaching to the stroller. I have another diaper bag which is around the same size but the rectangle shape is bulky and doesn't fit on or in the stroller well. The features which are most helpfull to me are:

*The large main compartment gives ample space for extra clothes and room to bring along toys.I always ran out of space with other diaper bags and had everything squished in there.

*The outer side openings, one insulated for food or beverage are well placed and handy.

*The shape of the shoulder straps keeps the back-pack from sliding off your shoulder when using only one strap.

*Great price compared to other high end diaper back packs

I am a backpack person in general, and when I was looking for a baby bag, I knew I wanted a backpack. After some browsing in stores and online, I picked this bag because it has the most compact design, and yet has real-world dimensions. I am extremely satisfied with this bag.

What I love about it:

1. It's a backpack. I have some shoulder bags that I got as gifts, and they're piled up in my closet. Every time I would bend down towards my baby, the shoulder bag would slide off. Very annoying. But since this is a backpack, I would simply put it on my back, and have both hands free to do whatever it is I had to do, without trying to keep the bag from sliding.

2. It's big enough to hold about 5-7 diapers, a normal size (as opposed to travel size) pack of wipes, spare clothes and shoes, a lunch box, some disposable pads and a changing pad.

3. There is an insulated pocket for bottles. I can put 2 8-oz bottles in there and a pack of ice, or one 8-oz bottle and two packs of ice, or two 4-oz bottles and 2 packs of ice. If I need more, I take a separate cooler.

4. It has another zip-up pocket for stuff with a little mesh pocket inside.

5. It has two entrances to the main compartment. One is the main zipper that goes all the way around the backpack. Another is a side zipper on the side that has the regular pocket. I strategically place a diaper or two and wipes next to the side zipper so that I could easly access it without taking the backpack off my shoulder.

6. There is a small pocket at the front to hold some trivial things. Not deep enough to put my keys or cell phone, but good enough to keep an extra pair of socks or a pacifier easy accessible.

7. There are two snap hooks next to the top handle that are used to attach the backpack to the stroller bar. I've never used this feature because I find it difficult to push my stroller with the backpack in front of me. It's a nice feature if it works for you.

8. The fabric if very durable. I have not tried cleaning it yet, though, so I cannot comment on how easily it cleans.

9. This backpack does not scream "DIAPERS", which is a big plus for me.

10. In addition to being a great functional backpack, it's good looking as well. The colors are nice and neutral, and are good enough for dad to carry as well.

11. The shoulder straps are wide and padded, and the back is padded and thick.

Overall, I would highly recommend this backpack to anyone who's looking for a highly functional and comfortable diaper bag.

I absolutely loved this bag when I first saw it. I could tell it would be functional, sturdy and cool enough for my husband to not mind carrying it around! One of the things that I really liked about this bag were the stroller straps (you can snap the two straps on the stroller handle so the bag hangs, leaving the basket under the stroller available for other items). This was one of the main factors in my choosing this bag over a few others I liked. Unfortunately, I had one of the snaps on the strap break (coming completely off the strap on one side), making it impossible to use the stroller straps. It's not like we carry bricks or anything, just standard diaper bag stuff--diapers, a change of clothes, a blanket, nothing heavy...I thought maybe it was just a fluke and returned the bag for another one. The new one broke today in exactly the same way. I think this was the first or second time we have strapped it to the stroller (it's not like we've had it for 2 years and it just wore out). I am very disappointed because I really do like this bag. If you don't plan to use the stroller straps, it is a great bag and I would highly recommend it. If you do plan to use the straps and you still want to get this bag, I would encourage you to keep your receipt and the tags just in case you need to return it.

I registered for this item b/c I knew I wanted a backpack style diaper bag. I wouldn't recommend this bag but would recommend getting a backpack style because it makes it so much easier to carry your baby plus everything else you need-you don't have to deal with straps that fall off your shoulders or the ones you would put across you that will just bring a lot attention to your chest!

Anyway, the problems that I have with this bag are...

1. The side compartment that is lined to keep bottles cold is way too small. I use Advent bottles and you can barely fit 2 and you can barely fit one if you want to put an icepack in too.

2. The shape of the bag and the way the large compartment opens makes is difficult to get to things at the bottom of the bag and keep it organized.

3. The other side pocket is also small and b/c the shape of the bag make it difficult to keep things organized and easy to find.

4. Basically-the shape of the bag-though it may look cool-makes the bag, in my opinion, not very user friendly. I am constantly trying to keep it organized, it tips over easily and it's just not big enough.

I know most of the reviews say they love the bag and I relied heavily on Amazon reviews of items when I registered.

I will say the bag is very comfortable and well put together but for me it can be frustrating to use. Hope this helps!!

After 3 months of using the cheapo free diaper bag from the hospital, my husband and I agreed on this diaper bag. I like it for the use, and he likes it because he carry a diaper bag and still feel manly.

Great features:

-Insulated compartment for baby bottles or your water bottle.

-On the opposite side, a compartment for your personal things, (including a key hook thingy so you dont lose your keys, and two netted pockets).

-There is a tiny pocket for a pacifier, no need to worry about it getting lost or dirty.

-Side and top entry into the bag. You can swing it around while its on your shoulder and access it from the side, no need to put it down and dig thru the top.

-Two pockets on the inside for whatever, (I use one for diapers, one for other personal things like an extra shirt).

-Separate pocket inside the main compartment for the changing pad, so it never touches the stuff inside the bag.

-Changing pad folds so the part that touches the nasty counter in the store never touches the part that touches your baby.

-Two zippered (not metal zippers, more like ziploc type zippers) compartments that fold out on the changing pad for wipes and diapers (if you use them, it makes that pocket rather bulky though).

-Small pocket on front (I use it for my cell phone).

-Bag holds it shape, even if empty, so you can see inside without having to hold open droopy fabric.

-Padded shoulder straps and back - VERY comfy.

Not so great features (only two):

-Its too small for a full day trip when you need toys, snacks, blankets, jacket and change of clothes.

-Because of its shape, with the rounded top, the top access is a little funky. It unzips at the seam where the top meets the back, and so usually I have to unzip it all the way if I want to see inside, or to reach in for a diaper. That combined with the bulky changing pad compartment (with wipes and diapers) is frustrating.

To be honest, after a month, I hated this bag. So I went on a search for a new one. After 2 months I've realized how cool this one really is. To solve the size issue, I got a larger bag for full day trips (or I take a second bag for just toys). This one is great for everything else, from Saturday morning errands to an afternoon at grandma's.

I tend to be extremely picky about the bags I carry, so I purchased this bag to "test out" and this is what I found.

The side bottle compartment does hold two bottles, however shorter bottles like Avent make the pocket bulge quite a bit and it is difficult to close the zipper. This compartment works quite well for two taller bottles.

The other side compartment is perfect for a wallet and keys, medicines, spoons or anything else that is small enough that you wouldn't want it to get lost in the large main compartment. However, I found that the two mesh pockets in this pocket are a little too deep for my medicine bottles and travel size sunblock. The pacifier pocket is in a good location, however, as with most pacifier pockets, it tends to flatten my daughters paci and when it is hot, the paci softens and reshapes to the flattened position.

The large main compartment has three pockets, one shallow pocket on each side and one very deep pocket against the back. I found the shallow pockets usefull for extra onesies or snack cups and the large pocket fits a changing pad, diapers and a travel wipes case very nicely. However, when the back pocket is full and so are the two zippered side compartments, the back becomes difficult to zip up, like trying to zip a very full suitcase.

The rest of the main compartment is very spacious, some of that space is lost when all pockets are full, but there still remains a good sized cavity that makes it easier to get your hand inside and find what you need.

The small pocket on the front does not have any type of closure but I did find it usefull to hold a small board book or other toy to grab quickly to entertain my daughter.

The stroller straps on the back of the bag have snaps, which in my opinion makes them very difficult to use. I would prefer velcro which would be much faster to attach and easier if you were forced to attach the bag one-handed.

Overall, I believe this bag is very well constructed of quality materials. The bag is comfortable to wear and holds everything I need for my daughter. However, I did end up returning this bag for one that fit my personal needs a bit better. Since I would not wear this bag as a backpack very often, I needed a more compact bag that would fit in the basket of my stroller easier. I also found that when I had fully packed this bag, I still had a large empty space in the main compartment, which I felt was a waste. I prefer a slightly smaller bag that is more compact.

Aside from my personal needs (and extreme pickiness) this is an excellent diaper bag.