The Ultimate Minimalist Diaper Bag: A Peek Inside My July Mini Tote
Let's talk bags. If you know me, you know I’m a "wallet on a wristlet chain" kind of gal. Keys hooked on, phone in my other hand – that’s my usual MO. I’ve just never truly loved purses, and don't even get me started on those giant tote bags like the Neverfull that feel determined to slip off my shoulder every two seconds!
But then, you have a baby. And suddenly, the amount of "stuff" you need to carry multiplies infinitely. It’s a real challenge for us purse-averse, minimalist-at-heart moms! If you're anything like me and looking for a streamlined way to carry the essentials for an afternoon running around town with your little one (hi, Addy!), then this post is for you.
Just so you know, I'm sharing some personal favorites! Some links are affiliate/referral, meaning if you buy through them, I might get a small commission or we both benefit – at no extra cost to you.
The Quest for the (Not-A-Purse) Perfect Mini Tote
My first requirement was clear: a mini tote that could actually fit my stuff and baby’s essentials, without feeling like I was lugging around a suitcase. Friends recommended the cute Trader Joe's mini tote bags, but honestly, I detest the parking lots at Trader Joe's and therefore don't often shop there (anyone else?!). I tried other leather bags, hoping for that chic, compact feel, but nothing quite hit the mark – either the handles weren't sturdy, they were too small for the real essentials, or just too big to carry comfortably.
Then, I stumbled upon the July Everyday Mini Tote. And my mini tote era officially began.
The July Everyday Mini Tote Perfection: (Link to July Everyday Mini Tote) This bag is IT. First off, the handles are incredibly sturdy (thank you, signature July webbing!) and comfortable to carry. It has a beautiful, structured silhouette so it doesn’t flop over, and the body is made from a cotton twill with a matte-finish TPU coating, making it super durable and wonderfully waterproof – essential for inevitable spills or unexpected spring showers. But my favorite feature for my stuff? The front pocket closes securely with a magnet, and it's the perfect spot for my personal items, including my iPhone Max.
My Personal Essentials (Neatly Tucked in the July Tote's Front Pocket)
Even with a baby, a girl needs her comforts! In that handy front pocket, you’ll find:
Hand Cream: Currently obsessed with the Byredo Mojave Ghost Hand Cream. It’s a little bit of luxury that makes me feel put together. (Link to Byredo Mojave Ghost Hand Cream)
Lip Care: Always a chapstick and a lip oil – hydration is key!
Card Holder: My slim card holder fits perfectly, keeping things minimal.
Inside the "Actual Diaper Bag" (My Stoney Clover Pouch)
Within the July tote, I use a Stoney Clover pouch as my dedicated "diaper bag." It adds a fun pop of customization (you can choose patches to make it uniquely yours!), and honestly, it has the smoothest zipper around. I absolutely HATE when zippers get stuck or feel stiff, especially when you’re trying to do a quick diaper change.
Here’s what comfortably fits inside for an afternoon out with Addy:
Diapers: Usually 3 is plenty for a few hours.
Gathre Leather Changing Mat (Micro size): (Link to Gathre Micro Mat) As I mentioned in a previous post, these leather changing mats are a total game-changer. You can simply wipe them clean after any mess, unlike cloth ones that need to be thrown in the wash constantly. So practical!
Water Wipes On-the-Go: These have the sleekest and most space-saving carrier I’ve found for travel wipes. I’ve searched high and low for good refillable wipe carriers and haven't been pleased with any of them – they’re often bulky or dry out quickly. When I run out of wipes in the original Water Wipes travel pack, I simply refill that slim container with more wipes from a larger pack. Works like a charm!
My Mini Tote Hack: Making it Work Without a Crossbody
Because I’m not really vibing with crossbody straps at the moment (they often feel like they're cutting into me or just get in the way), I found a little hack for the July tote. It comes with two rings meant to clip on a crossbody strap. I’ve repurposed these to hold my keys and Addy’s pacifier holder when she isn't using it. It keeps them super accessible and out of the main compartment.
So there you have it – my minimalist approach to a diaper bag, perfectly contained in a mini tote that I actually enjoy carrying! It proves that even if you’re not a "purse person," you can still manage all that baby stuff efficiently and with a bit of style.
What are your minimalist diaper bag hacks or favorite compact bags? Share your wisdom in the comments below!
