Has anyone tried the North Face Pandora or Isabella as a diaper bag?

[mama4jc]

I've been searching high and low for a backpack that would serve as a diaper bag with multiple inside compartments and small in enough not to overwhelm by 5'2" frame. I also did not want it to look like a diaper bag so I can use it after baby. I've come across the North Face Pandora and the Isabella - does anyone have either of these and have any comments? Thanks a bunch!

[turtlejd]

I used the Isabella as a diaper bag for a few months and now I use it as my work bag (I'm an elementary school teacher and I bike to work). It worked great as a diaper bag, I just wanted something that looked less like I was still in college. The bag is extremely comfortable and I think it would work well with your height. The bag was designed for a woman so the straps are at a nice comfy width. The main compartment of the bag has two slip pockets on the back that run the width of the bag. I think they're for folders or something. One's right on top of the other and I would put a cloth changing pad in the back slip pocket and diapers and wipes next to each other in the slip pocket in front of that one. Above the slip pockets is a zippered mesh pouch that can hold small things. My favorite part of the bag is that there's a mesh part on the front of the main comparment that closes with a clip. It's perfect for holding extra clothes or a small blanket. I wish my LE diaper backpack had that. :)

The smaller comparment has an organizer for pens, key fob and little slip pockets for small things. I would put my things in that section. On the front there's a little pocket for a cell phone or tiny toys and such. It's pretty small, but still useful.

On the side there are two mesh pockets for sippies and such.

I think it works great as a diaper bag. Let me know if you have any other questions. And it definitely has a life after diapers. Mine became my work bag also because my old backpack from college had it's last run. HTH!


Also, just wanted to add that there's a post about the pandora from awhile back, here's the link: http://www.windsorpeak.com/dc/dcboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=63&topic_id=15834&mesg_id=15834&listing_type=search

Good luck!

Joyce

[mama4jc]

Thanks, Joyce! Would you happen to have any pics of your Isabelle's inside? If not, that's ok, too. Thanks, again. :)

[turtlejd]

I can try to take some pictures later. :)

[turtlejd]

Here are some pictures:

Here's the main interior pocket. I have a Huggies box of wipes, changing pad, Kleenex and size 3 diaper for size. The diapers and wipes case are sticking out a little bit so you can see them. There's also room to put things like a baby carrier or cooler or whatever you feel like in the open space.

http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h12/turtlejd/89b120d9.jpg

The smaller front pocket:

http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h12/turtlejd/22c372f6.jpg

The very small pocket on the front of the bag with a pack of Kleenex for size:

http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h12/turtlejd/c149f68c.jpg

Here's a picture of the front of the bag:

http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h12/turtlejd/9721ed9e.jpg

HTH!

Joyce

[mama4jc]

Yay, thanks so much! I really appreciate it! :)