Petunia Pickle Bottom City Carryall

One thing became clear to me when I became a mom … you end up holding a lot of stuff. All this stuff has to come with you everywhere you go on top of holding a precious baby. Talk about important cargo! I tend to be an over-planner, too, making the thought of carrying a diaper bag, regular purse and baby pretty unbearable. Thankfully, I was given the opportunity to review the Petunia Pickle Bottom City Carryall Diaper Bag, combining two bags into one and eliminating much of my packing problem.

First, as I hinted at above, this carrier can be used as both a diaper bag and an everyday tote. This is because Petunia Pickle Bottom creates lovely, quality designs you will want to sport around town, even with your little in tow. I love combining everything into one bag, and I thoroughly enjoyed the getting organized process when changing over to this carrier.

While I was exploring the inner contents, I noticed it comes with a cross-body shoulder strap to be used as an alternative to the handle straps. This is so helpful for me, as I mentioned I am an over-packer! I will bring the world with me for outings, and the world can get pretty heavy after a while. The shoulder strap simply hooks onto the sides of the bag and really makes a difference if you are toting heavier items such as a laptop along with all things baby—it’s nice just having the option!

I thought my next favorite thing would be the many pockets (pockets, pockets and more pockets), but then I unzipped the front and found a zip-out changing station! It literally unzips and unfolds into a portable, hygienic place to take care of baby’s business. This is so great because a fear of mine is to be without the proper changing supplies in a less-than ideal bathroom facility. I cringe whenever I put my daughter on a changing table without a barrier, so this is a foolproof way to always be ready. Should you rather not put your bag on whatever surface being used to change a diaper, the changing pad is also removable. It’s connected via Velcro, making it a cinch to reattach when finished.

For anyone reading who likes to know what’s going on with the pockets, there are four on the outside (two on the back and one on each side) and five on the inside. The two side pockets are specified for bottles, although anything can go inside them. There are two on the inside for bottles, too! I don’t think the pockets are the largest, but there are enough of them it’s usually easy to find a place for all your belongings. Once I add in diapers, a change of clothes, wipes, bottle(s), a few toys and a container of puffs, I can still pack my makeup bag, a hairbrush, wallet, hand lotion and my keys. It’s tight, but it’s all there!

The City Carryall is made of glazed coated canvas exterior with a water-resistant lining. It’s an easy-to-clean material that has never given me an issue. So far, I’ve just spot-cleaned here and there. It has held up well, given the colors, too. My bag is the new Kaleidoscope print, but this bag literally comes in so many colors, prints and designs. I can’t even name them all, but there are plenty of options to choose from.

Lastly, this bag zips close. I have bags that zip and bags that don’t, and the older my kid gets, the more I steer clear of the open carriers just asking for her attention. I like zipping it shut and knowing it’s less likely for little hands to find their way in and for my things to escape.

I would recommend this bag to any first-time mom looking for a well-made, well-rounded diaper bag. The look and the design are easy to use, yet more functional than a traditional bag. I know they make some pretty innovative carriers, but this one is classic and effortless, which is exactly what I need. Given the materials, I think the Petunia Pickle Bottom Carryall is worth the price. It will arrive to your doorstep ready to help make your life as a parent more manageable, and hopefully it will inspire you to get more organized like me, too!

Price: $169
Where to buy: www.petunia.com