My top three busy mum backpack to shoulder bags

I've just about got past the initial stage of needing to take the world with me when I'm out with the kids.  I'm still lugging an iPad mini around with me for David to stay calm when we are out, juice and snacks etc. But I've got bored of always looking like I'd just walked out of changing room and want to look... dare.. I say it.. nice every now and again.

A while ago my mum wanted to buy something for 'me' as we walked around the bags at one of the big department stores. I was realistic, these bags don't leave much room for walking about with the kids.   I have three kids and two of them have autism and ADHD.  This means I need both hands free to hold their hands or rescue them from their misadventures. It's been a while since I had that 'ooooh' bag feeling.  Jane gets it and my goodness she's just four years old!

I was searching for a shoulder bag and backpack in one.  It's feels good to have a nice bag for a change, and these still mean I can take care of the kids when I'm out.  There aren't loads but there are some, and here's my top three.

1. Nanette Lepore Arabella (below)

Gorgeous backpack, still available in grey or black.  It's slightly smaller than some but as it's configured horizontally instead of vertically it can be easier to get things in and out.  It converts easily from and makes a good backpack, shoulder bag and cross body bag too.  I can go out with this bag and know I can be hands free when I need to and then easily have a handbag when I want too.  At roughly £30 I think it's an absolute bargain.

2. Claudia Canova Duffle 2-in-1 Bag (click link for image)

This is a bigger bag that really suits the shoulder better but is still easily changeable to backpack when you want to be hands free.  It's a pull fastening without a flap which I'd be aware of when it's on my back in busy places.  It's also worth noting that it's not lined so I'd avoid carrying anything likely to spill. It also comes in classic colours black, grey and tan.   RRP £50, but some are currently £25 in TK Maxx as I write.

3. Dune Dudley (above)

My favourite and first handbag/backpack from my mum after a visit to TK Maxx and I loved.  It came in coral, royal blue and this pale blue and I wished I bought more than one.   It converts from backpack to shoulder bag using the clasps and rings.  It can be cross body but it's a bit bulky for it to be honest.  I can fit in a 'generic' spare set of clothes, three fruit shoot bottles, three mini snack bags, my purse, the iPad and sometimes one of the kids coats.  I use it a lot. There aren't many still around but you can find the odd one.  Dune also do the Donanza which is slightly smaller but very cute and about £70.  A bigger alternative is their tote backpack that comes in a fab red. I haven't got either of these yet but I loved the big handle on the Donanza which makes the conversion from rucksack to handheld bag easy and sheer size of the tote.

How about you - what do you need out of your bags?

I found these all at TK Maxx - but this is not a sponsored post.  

I'm just pleased to write about them, hoping it helps other mums like me feel happy and hands-free!