One of my biggest stressors being an Exclusive Pumping Mom was having to take multiple bags everywhere. When I was working full time, I had my pump bag, work bag, purse, and lunch box and now that I’m a stay at home mom, I found myself with my pump bag, purse, diaper bag, and snack box for the days that we’re going to be out during meal times. There was a point in time where I just stopped leaving the house completely because it was such a production to get out of the house.
A lot of this was because I am a First Time Mom and I hadn’t found our “groove” yet but juggling that many bags and making sure I had somewhere safe and clean to not only store my pumps but my breast milk was a big deal. Enter: The Norah Backpack from Sarah Wells Bags.
Thanks to Sarah Wells Bags for sponsoring this post. All opinions are my own.
I’ve been using the Norah for about a month now and I’m honestly bummed I didn’t find this sooner! I have truly put this bag to the TEST and have found all sorts of ways to get everything I need for myself AND the baby out the door for adventures. It’s seen parks, playgrounds, the aquarium, thrift stores, church…it goes everywhere!
Biggest feature I love? There are two insulated compartments on either side that are perfect for pumps, parts, snacks, bottles, etc. One compartment is larger than the other to accommodate all portable pump sizes which is a huge plus! Since I use smaller pumps like the Baby Buddha and the Pumpables Genie Advance (use code THATMILLENNIALMOM for 10% off on both sites!) I’ve been finding other ways to utilize the larger compartment!
Within each compartment are two elastic pockets that are perfect for collection cups, bottles, flanges, hand held pumps, tubing, snacks, you name it! The flexibility of these compartments is a really big deal if you are pumping + working mom or a stay at home mom who is “never home”. Lately, I’ve been putting an ice pack in the larger compartment and packing a bottle for my son as well as snacks and treats for the both of us to munch on. It’s been SO nice not juggling multiple bags and worrying about his milk bottles getting warm.
Admittedly, I am “hard” on things. I move at 100mph and paired with the spatial awareness issues I’ve battled my whole life because of ADHD, things have to be durable and easy to clean. So far, I’m very pleased with the quality of the fabric both inside and out. A quick wipe down makes cleaning up exploding fruit pouches or spilled milk a breeze. Wanna know how I know? Both have happened!
Inside the main compartment, you’ll find a padded sleeve that can hold laptops up to 17 inches (slim) or 15 inches (standard). I’ve been storing, diapers, wipes, and a few other items here. If I’m not bringing pumps/meals with, you can simply push the side compartments in and snap them into place to store more inside the bag. Another really important feature is the “doctor style” bag opening! That top of the bag is “framed” and stays open. Since I’m usually out and about solo, this is the perfect creature comfort if you need to do things once handed – which is basically all the time. Another big plus – my Ceres Chill (use code THATMILLENNIALMOM FOR 15% off) fits in the big compartment! Huge deal if you are pumping on the go or at work.
To help keep things really organzied in the main compartment, I utilize my PackSWell Organizers. These come in a 3 nesting pack and are made of neoprene and are machine washable. That’s a big deal for parents! I recently had an exploding pouch in my large PackSWell (and by exploding, I mean I didn’t put the cap back on) and everything washed right out.
The front zipper compartment, although slim, is wide and holds more than you think. I have an organizer with Boogie wipes, sanitizing wipes, teething drops, and a few other first aid items stored in here. This is also a great spot to store your wallet, keys, and diaper back Chapstick (because you’re a Millennial and have more than one Chapstick, I just know it).
Last but not least, let’s talk straps. I didn’t really realize that I would need more than one option for straps depending on what I am out doing. The tote straps at the top of the bag make it easy to pick up (one handed) and slide onto your shoulder. Having the option to also wear the bag as a backpack is great if you are carrying baby. You have the option to tuck the tote straps into the pockets at the top. Both top pockets are great for smaller ancillary items when needed!
This bag has been an integral part of me getting out of the house and not feeling flustered or overwhelmed! This is a bag I can confidently say has been put through the ringer. It’s already gotten a wipe down because I have an almost one year old who loves to grab everything and I’ve had to throw my PackSWells into the wash and they came out looking brand new. This bag is absolutely worth the investment and all of the color options make it easy to find the right style and fit for you!
Check out my Instagram to see the Norah in action!