Backpack Small vs Drawstring Bag: Which for Toddlers?
By Trixie - infinite imagination | Published: 2026-10-19
Category: Comparisons
Compare the Trixie Backpack small and Drawstring bag for toddlers. Learn which suits daycare, outings, or swim class based on size, closure, and comfort.
Quick answer
For most toddlers, the Backpack small is the better everyday choice because its padded straps and chest strap keep it securely on small shoulders. Choose the Drawstring bag when you need a light, water-repellent option for swim class or quick trips.
Why the small backpack suits everyday toddler use
Toddlers are active, and a bag that slips off can cause frustration. The Backpack small has padded, adjustable shoulder straps plus a chest strap that prevents them from falling off. That makes it a dependable choice for daycare, park outings, or carrying a spare outfit and snacks.
Its two compartments—a main one and a front pocket—help organize small items. The big zipper pullers are easy for little fingers to grip, which encourages independence when opening and closing the bag.
When the drawstring bag makes more sense
The Drawstring bag is lighter and simpler. Its water-repellent coating makes it a practical swim bag, and the two drawstrings are easy for toddlers to pull open and close. Inside, a name tag helps avoid mix-ups, and a small pocket keeps money or a membership card safe.
However, it lacks padded straps and a chest strap, so it may slide off during active play. That is fine for short trips or when an adult is helping, but less ideal for a toddler walking long distances.
Trade-offs to weigh
- Comfort and fit: The small backpack wins for comfort and fit. Its padded straps and chest strap keep it secure on wiggly toddlers. The drawstring bag has no padding or chest strap, so it may slip off.
- Ease of use: The drawstring bag is easier for a toddler to open and close with the two drawstrings. The backpack's zippers are also toddler-friendly with big pullers, but zipping takes more fine motor skill. If your toddler struggles with zippers, the drawstring bag offers a simpler closure.
- Water resistance: The drawstring bag has a water-repellent coating, making it suitable for swim class. The backpack does not have this feature, so it is less ideal for wet items. For swim days, choose the drawstring bag to keep contents dry.
- Organization: The backpack offers two compartments (main and front pocket) for better organization. The drawstring bag has one main space plus a small inside pocket for small items. If you need to separate a snack from a change of clothes, the backpack is more organized.
Product facts at a glance
- Backpack small - Mr. Fox: The Backpack small has padded, adjustable shoulder straps with a chest strap, plus a main compartment and a front pocket with big zipper pullers. The chest strap keeps the bag in place on active toddlers, and the easy zippers let little ones open it themselves.
Backpack small - Mr. Fox - Drawstring bag - Mr. Dino: The Drawstring bag has a water-repellent coating, two drawstrings, a name tag, and a small inside pocket. It is a great swim or gym bag, and the name tag and pocket help keep belongings identified and organized.
Drawstring bag - Mr. Dino
Which bag fits your toddler?
Best for
- Toddlers who need a secure, comfortable bag for daily daycare or park trips
- Parents who want easy zippers and multiple compartments for organization
Not for
- Wet activities like swimming—choose the drawstring bag for its water-repellent coating
- Toddlers who prefer a simple, lightweight bag without straps—consider the drawstring bag
