The Away Featherlight Diaper Backpack meets
the Skip Hop Forma Diaper Bag Backpack
The lightest full-size diaper bag that actually travels well. We tested it head-to-head against the Skip Hop Forma Diaper Bag Backpack ($68) across 5 key dimensions.
Away Featherlight Diaper Backpack
“The lightest full-size diaper bag that actually travels well”
Skip Hop Forma Diaper Bag Backpack
“Everything you need at half the price, including packing cubes”
Head-to-Head Breakdown
Strengths & Weaknesses
Away Featherlight Diaper Backpack
- Lightest full-size diaper bag at 1.5 lbs with 23L capacity (Jessica Braun)
- Machine-washable, comes out looking 'as good as new' after travel grime (Jessica Braun)
- Trolley sleeve and laptop pocket make it genuinely travel-ready (Jessica Braun)
- Removable diaper caddy sits at top of bag for grab-and-go access (Jessica Braun)
- Only available in two colors: black and brown (Jessica Braun)
- No smaller version for quick errands when you don't need full capacity (Jessica Braun)
- Not sold on Amazon; must buy direct from Away at $178
Skip Hop Forma Diaper Bag Backpack
- Includes mesh packing cube, insulated packing cube, and changing pad at the $68 price point (The Stroller Mom)
- Lightest bag tested at 1.4 lbs with padded, adjustable straps (The Stroller Mom)
- 11-pocket design prevents the 'black hole' effect common in large bags (The Stroller Mom)
- Available everywhere: Amazon, Target, Carter's, Walmart with strong return policies
- Polyester material stains over time and doesn't feel premium (The Stroller Mom)
- No trolley sleeve for travel luggage (The Stroller Mom)
- Material quality gives a 'not super high-end' first impression (The Stroller Mom)
The Verdict
Our Bottom Line
Jessica Braun tested every mainstream diaper bag she could find, and the Away Featherlight kept winning on the dimensions that matter most: weight, cleanability, and travel readiness. At 1.5 pounds, it's the lightest full-size bag in the comparison set, yet it holds 23 liters. That combination sounds impossible until you pick it up.
Away Featherlight Diaper Backpack
Jessica Braun tested every mainstream diaper bag she could find, and the Away Featherlight kept winning on the dimensions that matter most: weight, cleanability, and travel readiness. At 1.5 pounds, it's the lightest full-size bag in the comparison set, yet it holds 23 liters. That combination sounds impossible until you pick it up.
- You travel by plane more than twice a year and need a trolley sleeve
- You want the absolute lightest full-size bag (1.5 lbs, 23L)
- Machine washability is non-negotiable after spills and blowouts
- You're packing for two or more kids and need maximum capacity without bulk
- You prefer buying direct from a premium brand and don't mind skipping Amazon
Skip Hop Forma Diaper Bag Backpack
The Stroller Mom (Emily) tested budget bags with the same rigor she applies to $200+ options, and the Skip Hop Forma kept punching above its $68 price tag. Open the box and you get two packing cubes (one mesh, one insulated), a cushioned changing pad, and built-in stroller straps. Competitors at twice the price charge extra for accessories the Forma includes.
- You want packing cubes, changing pad, and stroller straps included at $68
- You buy baby gear at Target or Amazon and want easy returns
- Daily errands are your primary use case, not air travel
- You're a first-time parent building a registry on a budget
- You'd rather spend the $110 difference on diapers and formula