If you have chosen and are fortunate enough to be able to breastfeed, you’re giving your baby an optimal start in life. And even if you need to be absent every now and then, you can still provide your baby with breast milk by using breast pumps.
But while it’s great when you’re still at home on maternity leave, what do you do when you have to leave your safe haven and venture back out into the world?
How do you make sure you’re still pumping enough milk for your little one while out of the house and on the move?
The answer: breast pump bags.
Do You Really Need A Breast Pump Bag?
Okay, I can already hear some of you asking, “I already have a diaper bag, so why do I need yet another bag?” followed up by, “Why can’t I just store my breast pump gear in the diaper bag?”
Perhaps you’re also wondering why you can’t just use any ordinary carry bag.
Well, I hear your point. You already have to remember to pack and lug around a lot of baby stuff as a new mom.
The last thing you want is more stuff. Let alone more expenses.
The thing is, a breast pump bag is specially designed for the task.
It has the right compartments for your pump and accessories (clean and used parts), nifty side pockets for personal items, and thermal pockets to keep your expressed milk cold and hygienically protected.
If you wanted to use a standard handbag, tote or diaper bag instead, chances are you’d need to have more than just one.
These bags really are true lifesavers for busy moms (trust me, a simple Amazon review search will prove just how many pumping moms swear by them!)
They’re great in that you get to keep your mobility and your freedom, while still making it easy to pump and store breast milk.
Also, these bags often resemble fashion bags, allowing you to conveniently and discreetly carry your gear on the go.
With modern design options like carry bags, totes, or even backpacks, it’s much more unnoticeable than lugging around the case that the breast pump came in.
This is a great advantage when you return to work if you don’t want everyone to know that you are taking the breast pump along with you every day.
Your co-workers and friends will be none the wiser!
And BONUS: many of these stylish bag options allow you to reuse them as a fashion accessory once you’re no longer breastfeeding.
Before we dive into it, here’s a quick list of my top breast pump bag picks for all of you moms in a hurry:
Image | Title | Price | Prime | Buy |
---|---|---|---|---|
Top | Sarah Wells Lizzy Breast Pump Bag (Le Floral) | Prime | Buy Now | |
Top | Bananafish Electric Breast Pump Backpack | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
Top | mommore Breast Pump Bag | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
Lunies Breast Pump Bag | PrimeEligible | Buy Now |
How To Choose The Best Breast Pump Bag For You
With all the well-known benefits of breast milk, it is natural that you want to have baby on the breast for as long as you possibly can.
But luckily it’s not necessary nowadays, thanks to the introduction of breast pumps and nifty breast pump bags to the market.
That means regardless of whether it’s time for you to get back to work or even if you just want to enjoy a few hours for yourself without baby, you can be reassured that your little one is not going to miss out on that liquid gold.
Before you go ahead and buy the first bag you see on the shelf, though, you’ll want to make sure to get one that will suit you and your individual needs as a breast pumping mom.
After all, they come in all sorts of colors, sizes, and price ranges.
Some cater to your basic needs with no extras, while others are très chic and topped with all the bells and whistles.
You will want to choose a model that is large enough to fit your manual pump or electric pump (whichever one you have opted to use), several bottles, and any other accessories you may need, such as baby changing pads or wet wipes.
A separate, insulated compartment in the bag for breast milk storage is also a great help, especially if you don’t have access to a refrigerator at work or are going out for a prolonged period.
I’ve gathered all the information you need to find a quality breast pump bag, so if you’re a new mom and don’t know what to look out for, read on!
Bag Style
The most popular option is the breast pump carry bag or handbag, which usually looks like a normal oversized bag (so there’s no need to sacrifice style!)
They tend to have a wide range of compartments for everything you may need and often have optional shoulder straps.
The only thing for which they are not good is a whole day of walking and carrying, as they may begin to feel heavy or bulky after a while.
If you are going to be on the move with your breast milk pump bag, consider one of the backpack models.
They may not be as modern as handbags, but they are very practical and convenient to carry.
Then you have the smaller breast pump tote bag options, which are only large enough for the essentials, your pump, and a few bottles.
They are not extremely practical, but they are ideal for people who don’t need to carry much or who want the most compact option possible.
Size
To determine the size of the bag you will need, first consider what you want to carry.
Breast pumps can be quite bulky with the pump parts.
Then you have to take into account all the necessary extras, such as bottles and/or storage bags and breast pads.
In addition, there are those nice-to-have items, like snacks and a book, for example.
And all the regular things you need, like your wallet and keys. If you add all this, it is clear that a fairly large pump bag is needed.
Although you can get some more compact options just for basic pumping, most should be large enough to fit all the equipment you will need and more.
Material
Bags like this have to be sturdy and easy to clean, so most are made of strong synthetic materials, such as anti-tear nylon.
Although, you may find some models made of cotton canvas.
Whichever material you choose, I recommend that it be waterproof or at least water-resistant so that spills are easy to contain.
It’s also important to consider the durability of the bag. Some models have weak seams or poor quality zippers and ultimately do not last long.
Versatility
It may feel like the breastfeeding stage lasts forever, but, in reality, you’ll probably only need your breast pump bag for one or two years.
Decent bags also don’t come cheap, so you may end up paying a significant amount for little use.
Because of this, I advise that you buy a bag that is versatile, so you can use it in other ways too (for example, as a beach bag, swimming bag, or even for everyday use).
Color
These bags come in a wide range of colors and designs, so you will surely find something that matches your taste.
Black is always a classic option and goes with anything, but if you prefer something more daring, you can find bags in bright colors, nautical stripes, and several other patterns.
Compartments
A breast pump bag with many compartments is practical and convenient.
You will need a large compartment to place the pump itself and compartments for full and empty bottles.
Some models have handy thermally-insulated pockets to help keep milk cold.
And get this – you can also even find options with laptop compartments: great news if your breast pump bag is becoming a work bag.
Many pumping mothers also like models with multi-zipper pockets on the outside for easy access to personal items such as your phone and wallet.
Straps
Bags that come with standard handles sometimes feature optional long shoulder straps to carry your bag more easily on one shoulder or across the body.
Some even have a pair of back straps so they can easily convert to a breast pump backpack (a nice variation if you’re looking to go hands-free).
Extra Accessories
You will find some breast pump bags that include additional pumping accessories, such as changing pads, wet bags, cooler bags, and bottles.
You may or may not find these accessories helpful, so think about whether you really need them before letting these “upgrades” influence you.
Price
Economic: Basic bags for pumping breast milk averages from around $20 to $45.
In this price range, you’re unlikely to find the most durable bags, and they may not have some useful basic features, such as insulated cooler pockets.
But they will do well for occasional use.
Mid-market: Expect to pay $45 to $90 for a mid-range bag, which are generally sturdy and have all the basic features you would like, such as convenient storage and side pockets, and comfortable carrying straps.
However, they may not be exceptionally elegant.
High-end: The best of the best bags are priced around the $90 to €160 mark. These bags combine style and functionality.
They are strong, feature-rich, and look good too.
TOP 10 CHOICES
1. Sarah Wells Claire Breast Pump Bag
- For Pumping Mamas, Designed by a Pumping Mama: All Sarah Wells Breast Pump Bags are designed and prototyped by Sarah herself with input from the pumping community
- Purposeful Design for Breast Pumps: Sarah knows pumping moms need fast, efficient and easy. These bags are not a generic tote bag, but rather, have specialized, innovative compartments to fit most portable pumps on the market (such as Medela, Spectra S1 and S2, Ardo, Ameda, Freemie, and many other breast pumps)!
- Express Yourself: Every pumping mama has a unique style. The Lizzy bag comes in multiple fun yet classic prints, and Sarah Wells Bags also offers other solid and printed pumping bags for whatever will suit your taste best
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Designed by a pumping mom, this Sarah Wells bag is easy, efficient, and far from generic.
This innovative tote is made of lightweight yet durable material that makes for super easy cleaning, and sports a whopping 10 organizational pockets.
It fits most portable pumps and its two side pockets are thermally lined.
And the bonus impressive feature? The Sarah Wells Claire tote fits an up-to-15″-screen laptop too!
2. Bananafish Breast Pump Backpack
- Holds MOST major Brand Breast Pumps
- Holds all of oyur Pump Accessories in a fashionalbe back pack
- Easy and Comfortable to carry with adjustable back straps and top handle
- Front zippered pocket of the bag opens to reveal a wide pocket sized to fit all standard breast pumps
- Dimensions(H x W x D): 12.5 inches x 13.5 inches x 7 inches
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
As far as backpacks go, it’s no wonder this one’s made the Amazon’s Choice list.
It’s ideal for travel and work, and fits most major breast pump and cooler brands and models, including, but not limited to, Spectra, Ameda, Freemie, and Medela breast pumps (for example, Medela Pump In Style, hospital-grade Symphony, and Freestyle).
The whole of the inside is insulated like a cooler and its many pockets comfortably holds your breast pump, extra parts, expressed milk, accessories, wipes, and personal items (and I’ll bet probably more!)
If your electric pump is battery powered, you can also comfortably wear this breast pump backpack around the house hands-free while pumping.
3. Lunies Breast Pump Bag Backpack
- Double-layer Design, Wet and Dry Separation: This breast pump bag consists of two layers. The upper layer stores breast pump and pump parts such as pump flanges,wipes and cords.The lower layer adds leak-proof insulation materials for storing baby bottles, ice packs, lunches, salads, etc.You dont have to take many bags,as our carrying pump bag take the place of lunch bag and pump bag.
- Leak-proof Material: The lower layer is made of high-quality leak-proof and heat-insulating material, which will not leak and can be used directly as insulated cooler bag to store breastmilk and keep it cool until getting home (work with ice pack) without worrying about leaks.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
If you’re looking for an ultra-elegant solution for active mothers, Lunies’ breast pump bag backpack offers space for everything you’ll ever need as a working mom.
Specially designed for convenience and discreteness – two things that on-the-go moms need! – this breast pump bag takes the hassle out of having to safely store your breast milk while you carry on with your daily activities.
What makes the Lunies’ bag really special is the double-layer design that separates the breast pump compartment on the upper half while the lower half is reserved for keeping the pumped milk cool.
It’s quite the stylish little backpack too that fits with many outfits easily, not to mention the added quality of life features like waist support and leak-proof construction.
4. Momcozy Breast Pump Bag
- 15.7L LARGE CAPACITY& SMART: Momcozy pumping bag has 12 pockets organize and carry all baby care essentials tidily, offers enough capacity to hold the hygienically change diapers, store wet clothes, breast pump, tablet, etc.
- SPECIAL OPENING DESIGNED FOR BREAST PUMP: The 2 opening on the side of Momcozy pump bag are specially designed for breast pump like Spectra S1, S2, Philips AVENT, Lansinoh, Evenflo and so on.
- 3 INSULATED BOTTLE POCKETS & LAPTOP COMPARTMENT: Momcozy breast pump bag keep liquids at desirable temperature with 3 insulated pockets, and a pocket specially designed for notebook which can hold laptops or notebook up to 13.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
A bag that is capable of holding more than enough for a mom’s needs.
From the base two slots that were designed specifically to house a variety of the most common breast pumps on the market (Spectra s1 and s2, Philips avent, Medela Lansinoh etc.)
It also contains three insulated pockets for your milk bottles in case of any accidental spills occurring as well as a laptop pocket to carry your laptop in (up to 13″).
You can always use it to carry a few extra diapers just in case.
Aside from those there are 12 other pockets which make the bag quite spacious and with two shoulder straps that can lock into one you can easily carry it around and open it when you need to!
Not only that, but the bag doesn’t sacrifice looks for all of its functionality. The entire bag is covered in a waterproof material that’s prone to prolonged wear and use and zippers that won’t break off easily.
5. GOGOSO’s Breast Pump Bag
- The breast pump bag can use as backpack, handbag It is very elegant and suitable for many occasion like shopping,working, a little traveling etc,its no only a breast pump bag it also can use as a lunch bag,litler travel bags.
- As a mini cute breast bag, it can fits most major MANUAL or SMALL SIZE electric breast pump.
- The Pump Bag Weight: 1.32 lb. Dimension:9.84*9.44*6.69 inch. 1 Large main compartment, lots separate storage pockets include insulated pockets , keep all your baby and elementary childs items organized, everything has its place. High quality polyester and strong zippers means youll have a backpack that lasts for years.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
A slightly smaller bag than the usual ones, but quite compact and useful if you want to keep your hands free or the weight on your shoulders evenly distributed.
This is because of the adjustable straps on the bag that let you utilize it as a shoulder bag or a backpack.
The one caveat to this is that the GOGOSO’s Bag can only fit medium to small-size breast pumps, but if yours fits the category it’s quite the fashionable item to have.
The one large compartment is made to be level with the ground and is insulated to keep what you carry warm or cold, depending on how you like it at that time.
Heck, you can even use it to pack your lunch, though I’d rather keep the area crumb-free if I could help it.
The bag itself comes in a variety of designs all made from quality material that won’t tear easily or let water in to ruin your mommy gear.
It’s easy to clean too, only a hand wash is necessary with the use of some mild detergent, just make sure to unzip everything when you leave it out to dry!
If that didn’t get you, then their 30-day satisfaction guarantee might where if you aren’t satisfied, you can either exchange the bag for another one or return in entirely
6. Teamoy Breast Pump Bag
- SIDE ZIPPER POCKETS: Laptop Breast Pump Travel Bag side pocket fits for most breast pump (Such as Spectra S1, Spectra S2 and Medela) and the other is for the cooler bag. Zippered design on the side is easy to put in and take out. NOTE: No Breast Pump and Cooler Bag Included.
- PADDED LAPTOP/TABLET SLEEVE: A compartment with the magic tape can fit the laptop up to 14’’, which is great for working moms, professionals, executives and moms on the go!
- LARGE CAPACITY: 2 front magic tape pocket + 1 back zipper pocket + 3 inside elastic pocket and 1 inside pocket can keep all your accessories when working.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
If you’re in the market for a bigger bag that is able to house more breast pump varieties, then look to Teamoy’s Breast Pump Bag.
As with most of the top bags, these have side zippers for easier breast pump storage and access in case you fill the rest of the bag with other baby essentials.
The bag itself is quite spacious topside and opens up wide so you don’t have to endlessly rummage around with no light.
It also comes with a side compartment to house your laptop and keep it still during your days out.
The nylon keeps the bag dry and your items inside secure while remaining stylish and trendy.
The tote bag may look somewhat bulky, but that’s due to all of the extra space it provides.
If you prefer a backpack over a tote, then Teamoy does offer a backpack variant so you can keep your hands free to tend to your baby’s needs!
7. Luxja Breast Pump Bag
- Made of heavy-duty nylon, more durable and scratch-resistant. High quality zippers will effectively extend the service life of this breast pump backpack.
- The front pocket opens to reveal an empty space to fit most standard breast pumps and cooler bag (Such as Spectra S1, Spectra S2 and Medela cooler bag). There are also multiple sizes of pockets to store keys, tissues, phones and the like.
- It also has a padded laptop pocket, which is suitable for working mother. You can put the laptop charger and accessories or regular size lunch box in the top compartment.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Luxja has managed to cover all their bases when it comes to breast pump bag varieties, offering both a tote and a backpack variety with optional cooler bag.
Each variety has a number of pockets of all sizes to store all that you might need when on-the-go as well as the 2 side pockets (or a single, large front pocket if it’s the backpack version) where you’d store your cooler bag and the breast pump in.
Fits most modern breast pumps too!
Featuring a laptop compartment too as well as the wide-open functionality that any respectable bag does so you won’t have to search for items endlessly.
It’s made out of a higher quality nylon than most bags as well, making it more resistant to any potential scuff damage.
The color choices may be a bit restrictive, but they’re all still equally trendy and are compatible with many outfit combos that you might think of.
8. Mommore Breast Pump Bag
- Large Capacity: 26L, Total 12 pockets including 3 insulated pockets, 15 laptop pocket, breast pump pocket, mommy pocket etc.
- Side Opening Design for Breast Pump: The one side pocket open into the main bag are specially designed for breast pump like Spectra S1, S2, Medela, Evenflo and so on. The other side pocket is a separate pocket can keep your pumping parts stay on one side.
- 3 Insulated pocket& Laptop Pocket: 3 insulated pockets can hold breast shields, milk bottle, wipes. And laptop pocket specially designed for tablets or laptop up to 15’’.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Now Mommore’s have graced us with a bag that looks like something a top designer brand would manufacture as a handbag, at least looks wise.
With a sleek black design with sturdy, but non-bulky gold-tinted metal zippers.
But just because it’s stylish doesn’t mean it’s not durable.
It’s woven out of high quality material that doesn’t let water seep in and destroy the valuable baby-care products contained within (or whatever else may be found inside).
It is a massive bag as well with a 26 l capacity that I believe outshines every other bag on this list (almost), with 12 pockets, 3 of which are insulated for any cargo that has the potential hazard of spilling.
Two side pockets, of course, so you can have easy access to your breast pump (which this bag can hold most types of) and the cooler where you keep all your milk in.
And, as with all bags on the list, it doesn’t have to be a breast pump bag exclusively, you can utilize it as a regular one you carry around town or to work/trips, just make sure to clean it before using it for baby stuff. Nice and sterilized if you can.
9. MOMIGO’s breast pump backpack
- DOUBLE LAYERS BOTTLE COOLER,LUNCH BACKPACK -Top layer is designed for some dry objects and fit into most breastpump carry. Bottom layer is storing and transporting up to 6 breast milk storage bottles from any brand with a large ice pack.
- MULTI-FUNCTION - It can use as backpack, It is very elegant and suitable for many occasion like shopping,working, a little traveling etc,its no only a breast pump bag it also can use as a lunch bag,litler travel bags.
- ELEGANT PORTABLE AND PROTECT YOUR BREASTMILK - Take the stylish bag anytime and anywhere.Whether your at work,at the outdoor,or at a travel,you can rest easy knowing you have a place to store wherever you pump.The Cooler bag locks in the cold while keeping your breast milk free of bacteria and full of the key nutrients your baby needs for healthy development .
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
MOMIGO’s did something similar to Mommore as far as a more modern fashion factor was concerned, but they’ve done it in backpack form!
Plus, they didn’t stray away from more hip and colorful designs either.
They offer a medium and large option, but I suggest the large just in case you need some extra space. You’ll never know.
Plus, the larger version lets you fit ice packs into the insulated area while still providing more than enough space for any other items.
Not only that, but you still need to fit your breast pump in as well, and if you’re using a larger model… well, you can see where I’m going with this.
The space in the top half is for the items that want to stay nice and dry, protected by a high-quality waterproof material to retain their quality and not ruin them.
10. Dr. Brown’s Breast Pump Carryall Tote
- Functional, discreet, and classic.Fits a bottle cooler bag, pump accessories.The Dr. Brown’s Breast Pump Carryall is also functional as a diaper bag, baby bag, or gym bag
- Has space to fit most electric breast pumps and a bottle cooler bag
- Has small pockets, including zipper pockets to organize everything youll need for a day away from home
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Last, but not least is Dr. Brown’s own breast pump carryall tote.
Dr. Brown’s is a well known baby brand that makes quality baby products. Their breast pump tote bag is no exception to the rule.
A more incognito and humble style of pump bag that’s on the budget side of things.
But don’t let that fool you as it’s still a quality purchase and will last you through your baby’s baby days and even longer.
The bag is manufactured out of pure polyester and doesn’t get washed like most other bags, rather it’s just wipe cleaned so you can even clean it on the go.
It fits most breast pumps which fit in the two neat side pockets that go all the way through in case you need the extra space.
The bag itself is quite large too and you can fit quite a bit inside of it, but it’s quite well organized with a lot of side pockets of various uses.
And, as an added bonus it has D-rings on the sides in case you wanted to attach a single strap if an over-the-shoulder style bag is something you’re more used to.
The one downside is that it only comes in gray so you don’t really get a chance to personalize, but the gray they offer is a nice, neutral color that goes along with many trendy mommy clothing combos you can think of.
So there you have it, mama!
I trust this helps and that you’re now armed with all the knowledge to make an informed decision on the best bag for you.
Here’s to enjoying every moment you get to nurse and provide your baby with that liquid gold of yours!
After all (as you’ve probably been told a million times before), this precious period together with your little bundle of joy will pass in the blink of an eye!
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