Kecci Shanghai or Oi Oi tote -- long trip!

[laggs]

In preparation for my upcoming 24-hour flight, I am treating myself to a diaper bag. I live in Australia and choices are limited. I'm down to either the Kecci or this Oi Oi tote, which is a bit less bulky than their messengers (I am petite). http://www.baby-express.com.au/shop/detail.php?id=3466&cat=39 I like the Oi Oi a bit better, b/c it's got a better mat, bottle insulator, etc. but it's A$149 while the Shanghai retails for $89. But I'd rather spend the extra $ if I'm going to regret buying the other one.

Can anybody offer any loves or hates or random thoughts about either bag that will help me decide?

I'll need it to fit my daughter's stuff during the long flight, and then I'll be using it around NYC, taking it on planes when I'm loaded down w/ suitcases and toddler, etc. TIA for any input!

[bubbaray]

OK, I don't have either bag, but honestly for your trip I would only consider a backpack.

Then, you can purchase a nice tote (probably at a more reasonable price) when you get to NYC.

I got a dayhiker pack from my local outdoor's store and it works great for trips when I need my hands free. This is the one I have, but I'm sure you could find a similar one at any outdoors store: http://www.mec.ca/Products/product_detail.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=676033&PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=785537&bmUID=1118870532459

You can just add a changing pad of your choice, or use Huggies disposable change pads (do you have those?) or even incontinence bed pads as a dispoable change pad. Much easier to use disposables than trying to clean a messy change pad on a plane!

Another option would be a Land's End backpack diaper bag, but I'm not sure if they ship to you. http://www.landsend.com/cd/fp/prod/0,,1_2_1943_47583_120488_98935_5:view=-1,00.html?CM_MERCH=PAGE_47581&sid=0197107648088125960

Other people really like the Baby Sherpa too. http://www.ebags.com/baby_sherpa/baby_sherpa_diaper_backpack/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=17222 Not my personal favorite, but others like it.

HTH


Melissa


Maya Papaya!
http://lilypie.com/baby2/040411/3/4/1/-8/.png[/img][/url]

[laggs]

Thanks, Melissa.

I actually have a backpack (the Baby Bjorn), and while it's convenient, it's just not big enough to hold the stuff I'll need to take with me on the plane. Also, if I put any of my own valuables in it to minimize the amount of bags hanging off me at the airport, I'm afraid they will be too vulnerable on my back where I can't see them.

The other backpacks you posted about look better than what I've got (sigh!), but unfortunately, it's difficult and very expensive to get stuff sent to Australia from most US-based websites, so I have to stick with the locally available options.

I suppose a "pro" of the Kecci Shanghai is that it converts into a backpack. Hmmmmmm.

Very good point about choices and prices being better in NY. I've already done a ridiculous amount of online shopping for DD's summer wardrobe to be picked up once I get there!

[bubbaray]

I wasn't meaning to suggest that you necessarily order one of the bags I suggested, but perhaps look for one like them? I would find a local outdoor's store (where they sell hiking, camping equipment).

The first pack I suggested has a couple of hidden compartments. You could also look into pack locks (so you can lock the zipper pulls together).

I would look for a bigger pack with better organization than the BB pack.

The Kecci straps are just thin fabric, not padded or ergonomically designed. Personally, if it were me taking DD on the flight to Australia, I would want the most comfortable, well organized pack that could fit a week's worth of diapers, LOL! Also, a nice bag might get damaged on the plane (shoving it in the overhead bins, under the seat, etc.).

In your situation, I would definitely choose function over form. You can pick up a couple of "pretty" bags when you get to NYC.



Melissa


Maya Papaya!
http://lilypie.com/baby2/040411/3/4/1/-8/.png[/img][/url]

[laggs]

>You can pick up a couple of "pretty" bags when you get
>to NYC.

You are a woman after my own heart! I have a feeling my husband will be somewhat less understanding about why I may need a fleet of diaper bags, but sometimes men are a bit less savvy about these things!

[jstrychasz]

We went to Italy using a tote-style diaper AND I own the Kecci backpack - based on experience, I'd say neither is ideal for long travel. The one good thing about the tote (a Lands End model) was that it had lots of compartments so things were easily accessible on the trip. This is essential (nothing like a screaming baby/kid as you furiously hunt for something at 3am!). The downside is that, with so many other bags/kid, etc., a tote is a pain to keep slung on your shoulder. The Kecci is very nice (I got it after the trip) and the backpack feature is a plus. However, it's not divided into compartments (just has pockets) and things get really jumbled inside. NOt a problem for everyday, but it would be on a long trip. In short, if you can find a bag that's divided into multiple compartments and is a backpack (or second-best, messenger-style), you'll be a lot more comfortable. Perhaps a sporting/outdoors store would have something . . . and, happy travels!

[laggs]

Thanks! I'll continue my search....