I'm not usually carrying all that much, weight wise. Just a nappy or 2, wet bag and change mat plus my purse, phone and keys. Maybe a toy and a bib as well. If I'm out for a long trip away from the car and back up supplies it's usually with DH who can carry the backpack separately. Might have a search around to see if there's any nice tie shoulder bags so they can be untied and threaded through the shoulder strap.