The first changing bag we bought was a mass produced monstrosity from Amazon. We didn't really know what we wanted other than it needed to fit lots of baby stuff in it. And in that sense it met our expectations. It had multiple sections all with their own pockets and sleeves, and it was up to you what you put in each. But it had no structure. Once you'd packed it to the brim for a day out, it bulged out of shape and was both uncomfortable to carry and didn't look great.
That bag served us for four and a half years, primarily because we don't like spending unnecessarily and also because none of our friends had anything any better that made us jealous of them or ashamed of our own bag.
Then in March this year (2025) when Chris and I were at The Baby Show we met Nathan, the founder of Official Dad Bag. We were both in the New Kids On The Block section of the show, and amazed and delighted to see there was another dad-focused brand.
Nathan channelled his real‑world parenting frustrations into designing this bag. After iterating through five prototypes, he perfected the layout - from pocket depths to strap ergonomics. The result is a stylish, compact bag crafted from water‑resistant materials that can withstand the inevitable spills and rain. It’s built for durability, yet lightweight enough for everyday use.
The first thing you notice is obviously how it looks. It is effortlessly smart, to the extent that it isn't clear it's a changing bag until you open it. It could easily take the place of the Stubble & Co backpack I use for work trips. It's also incredibly comfortable to wear, even when packed to capacity. If you notice the padded adjustable straps it's only because the fit feels so much better than other bags that would pull at your shoulders and hurt your back. The Official Dad Bag stays close to your body, and thus you feel no pain or strain on your neck, shoulders or back.
The storage compartments, which lets be honest matter more than how good it looks, offer organisational perfection. Each pocket has been carefully thought through, even down to their depth, so you have quick and easy access to everything you need. No more rummaging around to find a nappy, a snack or the right toy. There are outer bottle pockets, insulated bottle holders, a handy areas for snacks that is the perfect size for a lunchbox, and individual areas for nappies, wipes and clothes. There's a separate smaller compartment called the man drawer with space for a laptop, book and anything else you might want to take out that isn't for baby.
And then there's the integrated changing mat. Lots of changing bags come with a detached pull-out mat, but the Official Dad Bag integrates its own seamlessly so it simply folds out of the front panel - a game changer for on the go parenting and essential when no changing facilities are available. It's a standout feature that elevates the bag to a parenting lifesaver. (I've also used it as ground sheet when out having an impromptu picnic with my daughter.)
The bag is black with three colour options for the front panel - black, grey and khaki - and it will cost you £90. Is that cheap? Well, this is a premium product, so I think it's very reasonably priced. A quick Google search for 'baby changing bag' brings up a lot more expensive and inferior options.
In conclusion, the Official Dad Bag offers the perfect trifecta: thoughtful organisation, durable build and a stylish design. This is a bag you will want to wear. It's compact yet spacious, rugged yet refined, and it genuinely makes parenting on the go easier. I cannot recommend this bag enough as a truly dad-centric accessory.