Backpack size when you have children

[StayIt]

I'm looking at splashing out on a new backpack for me (Roka Camden) but I have a toddler. Normally I would go for a small bag as I don't carry much but I appreciate this might not be the case now (baby was born just before the first lockdown so I have no experience of what I need on a day out). So should I go small or medium. The size difference is relatively big imo. Will I regret not going bigger after carrying drinks, snacks etc. I have a car and I keep spare clothes, nappies etc in a baby box in the boot.

I carry a large eastpack one as need large sports bottle of water/squash, medium size for children, packed lunch, spare clothes, layers/ coat in winter go into backpack when not in lockdown!

Bigger for sure. I like bags with lots of pockets so that I can store keys etc and not have to rummage around for them

Depends how long you want it for and what you want to put in it. I had a very small bag while my children were in the pram/stroller because all their stuff was in a big changing bag in the basket underneath. I had spare stuff in the car as well, but I wasn’t going to leave the zoo or whatever and trudge back to the car every time I needed to change a nappy or they fell in puddle and needed new leggings. So my bag for them had a few nappies, wipes, nappy bags, fold up mat, drink bottle, snacks, a spare basic outfit, often their coat/sunhat if they weren’t wearing it, the odd toy, half chewed rice cakes, the craft they made a week ago at toddler group I’d forgotten about, various packets of tissues, clothes pegs, random baby socks.... Then I had a second child and the bag expanded further!

Now they’re primary age I have a regular size walking daypack on a day out, and often my husband has one too, mostly for all the packed lunches. I have a smaller bag for day to day life. But I’m a bit of a prepper - there are apparently people who go out for the day with a baby with a spare nappy in their pocket and that’s it. I’m just not that kind of person!

I've just looked at that bag - looks nice. I would think even the medium might be a little bit small for a day out with a toddler if that's the only bag you're taking. I use a North Face 28 litre backpack if I'm not taking the pushchair (I normally shove everything in the basket) and that's about right for nappies, spare clothes, lunch etc.

All depends on what you want to take.

I've always taken the bare minimum out with my three (big age gaps so I've only ever had one baby/small child at a time!)

I've got a small bag that I just Chuck a few nappies in, pack of wipes, spare baby grow and a bottle/pouch of food and spoon.

I have a 10l leatherette one from monsoon.

it's big enough for a spare t-shirt and snack and mini first aid kit.
my dc are older now but from about school age they have carried their own stuff.