14 travel tote

The 24 Best Travel Tote Bags for Your Next Big Trip

Whether it's your only bag or a carry-on supplement, a travel tote will take your packing game to the next level.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

T&C Tried and True

Medium metro tote deluxe.

Separate Compartment for Organization

Lo & sons catalina deluxe tote.

Luxurious Essential

Cuyana easy travel tote.

Whatever your travel needs for the season ahead, odds are that a good tote can make your packing life more organized, and less stressful—honestly, what more could you hope for? With that in mind, we've scoured the internet for the more durable, functional travel totes for every type of traveler, from the serial overpacker to the organization fiend. Here, our favorite finds for all of your journeys.

Perpetually trying to find space in your carry-on for one last thing? Meet what one T&C editor calls, "the personal item of every overpacker's dream." Featuring five exterior pockets, plus six on the interior and an detachably pouch, it will keep all of your travel essentials organized while it's sturdy-yet-lightweight construction makes it easy to tuck in "just in case" items to your hearts desire without overwhelming your arms.

The cushy, reinforced straps are easy on the shoulders, but it also has a detachable crossbody strap and a built-in sleeve to slip over the handle of your luggage if you don't feel like toting. It also comes in four sizes (we're fond of the medium for it's ability to hold oodles of stuff while still slipping neatly beneath the seat in front of you on a plane) and a seasonally-refreshed roster of more than a dozen shades, making it as stylish as it is functional.

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Tote

For the "a place for everything and everything in its place" traveler, this tote has you covered with a zippered bottom pocket that's perfect for separating out toiletries or dirty shoes from the rest of your haul (an interior panel also allows you to open the bottom compartment fully, if you're craving a deeper bag.)

Available in recycled poly or sturdy canvas, at 15" x 14" x 7", it qualifies as a personal item for most airlines and has a handy luggage sleeve to pair with your suitcase. For those looking for larger options, it comes in four additional sizes as well.

Cuyana bags are a favorite of T&C editors and royals alike ( Meghan Markle is a big fan ) for their timelessly stylish silhouettes, buttery soft leather, and effortless functionality. This, their latest launch, is made specifically with travel in mind.

Crafted with lightweight, durable pebbled leather (currently available in four colorways) it offers ample interior space (a 37L volume, to be precise) plus two large pockets, a phone slip, and a key clip, as well as snaps for Cuyana devotees who want to mix in their System Flap Bag or System Zipper Pouch .

lululemon Packable Tote Bag

If you're more of a "shop when you get there" traveler, this bag brings the souvenir space without taking up lots of room in your primary bag. Water-repellant and roomy (it holds 32L by volume) it features rugged shoulder straps, plus an extra strap that lets it slip over the handle of roller luggage, and can fold into its own exterior pouch when not in use to make a tidy, handheld bundle.

Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote

Some things are classic for a reason. Case in point: this timeless Longchamp tote; just ask T&C 's associate shopping editor, Sophie Dweck, who's been carrying hers for over a decade . Made from sleek, easy-to-clean nylon that comes in a cornucopia of colors, it features a simple, spacious interior and strong leather straps that ensure it can stand up to anything your travels throw at it, and look good doing it.

ETRONIK Travel Duffel Bag with USB Charging Port

Looking for a tote that's as useful in your day-to-day as it is when you're far away? This multi-use tote has racked up thousands of five-star reviews on Amazon for its versatility. A separate, vented shoe compartment makes it as friendly to gym sessions as beach trips, while its multiple pockets keep essentials organized. It also includes a luggage strap and a USB charging port so you can plug in your tech without rummaging through your bag for your battery pack, and comes in two sizes and almost 30 shades so it will match your travel style.

One reviewer writes: "I must say, it exceeded my expectations in every way! This bag is the perfect blend of style and functionality, making it a must-have for any woman on the go."

The ReNew Transit Weekender

Type-A packers, take note: this 100% recycled polyester is all about options. Its four colorways can be worn crossbody, carried in hand, or over the shoulder, and include a zippered exterior pocket, a luggage sleeve, two water bottle holders, and a padded laptop sleeve—all with Everlane's signature modern minimalist vibe.

Bluboon Travel Tote Bag

Available in 20 colorways and textures, this canvas tote features a luggage sleeve that also doubles as a tech pouch so your gadgets will always be at the ready. The sturdy construction and bargain price tag have made it a hit with reviewers, who site its roomy 16.5" x 9" x 14" size and comfort.

One reviewer writes: "I am so happy with this purchase! Reasonable price, large main compartment, and a few zip compartments to organize smaller items. Bag fits perfectly under airline seat, even when stuffed FULL. It stayed in place when I had it on top of my roller bag, and I noticed the shape of it kept it from making everything tip forward (which happened with my previous bag)."

Madewell The Shopper Tote

For a travel bag that you can use as a purse all trip, this simple Madewell leather tote brings a perfect mix of style and space (12.75" x 12.75" x 7.5".) It even comes with an interior strap that allows you to change the shape, and doubles as a keyring.

Boat and Tote

True L.L. Bean lovers know that the brand's classic Boat and Tote bag is hard to beat—after all, it's been one of their signature styles since 1944. Crafted from rugged cotton canvas, it's tested to hold up to 500 pounds, so no matter how much you manage to overpack, this bag is guaranteed to take it on. And with four sizes and two interior lengths to choose from, as well as a dozen colors, there's a perfect one for all your needs.

Caraa Studio Tote

Whether you prefer a classic tote style or a backpack, this Italian leather bag gives you the best of both worlds. Along with the usual amenities (a slew of pockets, adjustable straps) it also has a collapsible waterproof shoe pocket for those days your travel plans call for a quick change.

More: The 18 Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks for Easy, Breezy Packing

Béis The Convertible Weekend Bag

This tote brings two-for-one power with a removable bottom compartment that can be used as is, or as a separate packing cube. Easy to clean polyester and polyurethane make it a cinch to keep looking like new, with a built-in luggage sleeve and removable laptop sleeve give it plenty of function for that rush through TSA.

Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Packable Nylon Tote

Some people pack an extra suitcase when traveling abroad. We propose this packable Tumi tote instead. It folds out to an impressive 8" x 14" x 8 size when fully opened and weighs less than a pound, so you can shop to your heart's content while getting those passport stamps.

More: The 13 Best Luggage Brands for Every Type of Traveler

Carhartt Legacy Tote East/West

Built to work hard, this water-repelling polyester Carhartt bag is tough enough to handle all of your travel adventures. It includes two exterior pockets as well as an interior divider and pockets, so it's and functional on the inside as it is on the outside.

One reviewer writes: "Even better than expected! I used it as my personal item for a trip to Mexico…placed my purse, tablet, magazines, etc inside…lots of pockets! Hides dirt, wipes off easily, very well made."

Revive Nylon Large Tote

Available in five-shades, this nylon tote (made with fabric crafted from 27 recycled water bottles with recycled leather trim) has jumbo exterior slip pockets (plus three interior pockets and a keyring) and a built-in padded laptop sleeve to match its roomy interior with organization.

One reviewer writes: "Great color, roomy, lots of pockets to keep things organized and easy to locate. Perfect for work and travel. Very happy with it."

Dagne Dover Jemi Tote

Want a travel tote that makes a style statement? Bring your puffer coat style to your bag with this versatile, vegan tote made from recycled plastic water bottles. At less than a pound and half (it holds 16.2 L volume), it's super lightweight, and has two sets of comfy handles—one for hand-held use and one for shoulder use—plus a luggage sleeve, so it's great no matter your travel style.

Naghedi Jet Setter Small Tote

Fully lined, basket-woven neoprene brings beautiful texture to this travel tote, making it ideal for those situations when you have to go straight from the plane to an event. It also has a zip closure and zippered interior pocket to ensure that your stuff stays in place even on the wildest travel days.

Scout Travel Bag Large

You want all of the weight in your travel bag to be from your must-haves, not from the bag itself. This colorful version from Scout (it comes in half a dozen colors and patterns) is a featherlight 1 pound, yet can hold up to 65 pounds of your gear, and can fold flat when not in use. It also comes with a zipper pocket and reinforced bottom so everything you pack stays comfortable where you want it.

Barbour Medium Travel Explorer Leather Tote Bag

The biggest name in waxed cotton jackets brings their British heritage sensibility to travel with this luxe 100% leather tote. Measuring 17.72'' x 14.96'', it comes with sturdy top handles and an adjustable shoulder strap for comfortable carrying.

More: The 13 Best Luxury Luggage for Traveling in Style

WONHOX Large Travel Tote Bag

This waterproof travel tote features a luggage sleeve, three interior pockets, including a special compartment to separate wet and dry items (looking at you, still-damp swimsuit) and four external pockets, as well as a zip-open expansion on the bottom so your bag can be as big, or small, as you need.

One reviewer writes : "Schlepped this bag all over Europe and it holds a surprising amount of stuff! The little expander area on the bottom really helped me squeeze in a few extra souvenirs. The trolley sleeve is a MUST from now on. It hooks on to your roller suitcase so easily and is sturdy! I was throwing my baggage up on the train, in and out of taxis and through many airports easy peasy."

Lauren Hubbard is a freelance writer and Town & Country contributor who covers beauty, shopping, entertainment, travel, home decor, wine, and cocktails.

@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;-webkit-transform:scale(-1, 1);-moz-transform:scale(-1, 1);-ms-transform:scale(-1, 1);transform:scale(-1, 1);background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-1jdielu:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}} Travel @media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-128xfoy:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}}

What's New in the Hamptons This Summer?

Best Room At... Castelfalfi

The Best Room at... Shangri-La Paris

A Snob's Guide to the Jersey Shore

The 10 Best Garment Bags for Travel

Score a Four-Pack of Apple Airtags for 20% Off

What's It Like To Sail On The Ultraluxury Grandeur

The Travel Beauty Case That Belongs in Your Bag

30 Bridgerton Filming Locations to Visit

The Best Room At... The Fifth Avenue Hotel

7 Ways Myrtle Beach Is an Arts & Culture Hub

CONFIDENCE, COMMUNITY, AND JOY

• Skincare Ingredients A-Z
• Skin Concerns
• Hair Removal
• Moisturizers
• Tools and Techniques
• Hair Concerns
• Hair Styling
• Fashion Trends
• What to Wear
• Accessories
• Clothing and Apparel
• Celebrities
• Product and Brand News
• Trends and Innovation
• Amazon Picks
• Gift Guides
• Product Reviews
• Mental Health and Mood
• The Byrdie Team
• Editorial Guidelines
• Editorial Policy
• Terms of Use and Policies
• Privacy Policy

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

The 10 Best Travel Totes to Feel Fancy Every Time You Commute

Pack your bags.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• What To Look For
• Frequently Asked Questions

Why Trust Byrdie

Byrdie / Brian Kopinski

While other types of bags, like suitcases and backpacks , have their place in your travel line-up, totes tend to have the ideal size, weight, and roominess for shorter trips or easy access en route.

“A travel tote is the ultimate accessory for any getaway,” says Marissa Galante Frank , Bloomingdale’s fashion director for accessories and beauty. “From the airport to the beach , you will find yourself using this tote more than you anticipated, which is why investing in a good one is key.”

It can be a challenge to find the right tote that can hold everything you need without becoming too heavy or cumbersome. So we surveyed 40 of our editors to find out which totes they swear by for commuting, vacationing, and everything in between. We asked them to rate each tote on size, organization, durability, and comfort, and after receiving their responses, we compiled this list of the best travel tote bags.

Best Overall

Quince revive nylon large tote.

Fabric: Recycled nylon, recycled leather | Sizes: 13" H x 17" W x 5" D | Colors: 5

To put it simply, we love this tote. We’ve taken it on work trips, vacations, beach days, errand runs, and it always makes packing a breeze. The spacious interior has multiple compartments and a 15-inch laptop sleeve . Having two open pockets on the outside also makes our life easier by giving us a place to quickly tuck away our phone. Despite all that it’s able to carry, the bag distributes weight evenly and doesn’t get super heavy. We find the $90 price point a good middle ground for a travel tote, and all the details, like the leather trims, magnetic closures, and five stylish colorways make it worth the price. Not to mention that the water-resistant nylon is made from recycled water bottles and the leather is recycled as well. In fact, we can’t think of anything we would change.

Best Budget

Baggu duck bag.

Fabric: Cotton | Sizes: 15.5" × 11.5" × 4.75" | Colors: 11

Who says you have to spend a ton of money for a high quality tote bag? Baggu’s Duck Bag checks off all the features we are looking for while coming in at less than $40. The bag is large enough to fit our 15-inch laptop and can still hold other essentials like a full size water bottle, books, and snacks. A zipped interior pocket keeps our valuables secured and handy. Made from recycled cotton canvas , the tote is extremely durable and easy to clean . Even after spilling an entire burrito inside—epic fail, we know—we were able to throw it into the wash and get it back to looking clean without compromising the fabric or quality. In addition to the top handle, the bag comes with an adjustable crossbody strap that’s actually long enough to accommodate plus-sizes. Add in the fun patterns, and this bag is a winner all around.

Best Carry-On

Béis east to west tote.

Fabric: Recycled polyester, recycled faux leather | Sizes: W 17.13" x H 14.17" x D 9.06" | Colors: Black, Beige

In an age where airline fees keep on climbing, you can only afford to bring the most functional travel bags. This one from Beis is so efficient, we've used it as a carry-on. No inch is wasted, and inside you'll find a padded laptop sleeve (fits 13-inch or 15-inch), one large zippered pocket, two cellphone pockets, two water bottle pockets, and two pen pockets. We can't count all the times we scrambled to find a pen during a trip, and this bag finally gives it a place.

The outside is strategically designed as well. This is one of the few totes that has both a short and long handle in addition to a removable shoulder strap . And we love how the key leash is inside the outside zipped pocket—so often they are inside the main compartment, leaving us still digging around for the keys. The luggage sleeve allows us to zip through the airport and the zipped top ensures that even if our luggage tips over, nothing will fall out. Made from recycled polyester with a recycled faux leather trim , this tote is sustainable and durable.

Best Zippered

Longchamp tote bag.

Material: Leather, Recycled polyamide canvas with inside coating | Dimensions: 12.2" L x 11.8" H x 7.5" W | Colors: 7

Longchamp’s Pliage Tote Bag is iconic for good reason. Similar to the L.L. Bean Boat and Tote, it’s the type of unstructured bag where you can throw a ton of stuff inside while the top zipper keeps everything secure, and the nylon and leather exterior looks stylish. Not to mention leather and nylon are durable and easy to keep clean.

We love to take this bag on international trips, since it’s roomy enough to hold packing cubes and easily fits under an airplane seat, or we can fold it down into a suitcase when not in use. It’s light and sleek enough to use as a purse while sightseeing, and we appreciate the extra security of the top zipper. There’s two flap pockets on the inside that can store your keys, passport, or wallet, so you aren’t digging around the bag to find them. The luxe designs and materials mean you'll be using this tote for years to come.

Best Weekender

Mz wallace large metro tote deluxe.

Bloomingdale's

Material: Nylon | Dimensions: 14.5" L ×11" W × 14.5" H | Colors: 9

Finding the right tote for a weekend getaway can be tricky, since you need something that can hold everything from clothes to cosmetics to electronics. Cue the MZ Wallace Metro Tote. Dubbed the Mary Poppins bag, this tote strikes the right balance of endless space and organization. We get six pockets on the inside and five pockets on the outside with ample room in the middle to hold bulky items like a laptop and clothes. All the pockets are zipped , so we don’t have to worry about things falling out as we throw this into our car. Plus, the bag comes with three detachable pouches that we love to use for our beauty products and chargers. Despite how much we pack into this bag, the quilted nylon remains incredibly lightweight . And for trips that involve flights, we can just stick this bag on top of our suitcase thanks to the nifty luggage sleeve .

Yet we use this bag for way more than just weekend trips . It’s sleek and stylish enough to take into the office, and the extra-wide straps leave our shoulders-pain free during our commute. Plus, there’s a detachable crossbody strap . If you've seen this bag all over your Insta feed and in IRL, now you know why.

Best for Work

Caraa studio large leather tote.

Material: Leather, waterproof nylon | Dimensions: 13" x 18" x 7.5" | Colors: Black

Several editors swear by the Caraa Studio Tote as their work bag , and here’s why: there’s a pocket for any scenario imaginable. Besides the standard laptop pocket—which can hold a 17-inch device —there’s eight pockets for all our essentials as well as a water bottle holder so we stay hydrated yet spill-free. Even if we were to spill inside the bag, it wouldn't be the end of the world, as the interior is made from waterproof, antimicrobial nylon .

When we're rushing to take the subway, every second counts, so we appreciate all the small conveniences like a key leash , an exterior phone pocket , and a covered shoe compartment to store our flats or sneakers. And whenever we get tired of wearing the bag over our shoulder, we use the detachable straps to convert it into a chic backpack instead. Not only is the Italian leather gorgeous, but the pebbled texture makes it more durable and resistant to scratches and scuffs. Yes this tote is more expensive, but it's made our morning commute less stressful, which is priceless.

Best Canvas

L.l.bean boat and tote bag.

Fabric: Cotton | Sizes: 15" H x 17" W x 7½" D (Large) | Colors: 13

While sometimes we want a bag with all the bells and whistles, other times we want a simple tote bag that can lug anything and be stuffed into any corner. Hello, the L.L. Bean Boat and Tote Bag. Made from heavyweight canvas with a reinforced flat bottom and no pockets, this bag can be stuffed to the brim and then folded up when not in use. It’s our go-to bag for weekend trips, beach days, grocery shopping, etc. and it always holds everything we need—the brand has tested it to hold up to 500 pounds . Though we personally love the convenience of being able to reach in and grab anything from the open top , if you prefer extra security, it also comes in a zipped version. The white canvas and colorful straps will never go out of style, and you can choose from 13 different colors and add a monogram for only $8 . The bag ranges from small to extra large , and if you want to easily wear it over your shoulder, we recommend ordering the long straps. It honestly may be the best $40 you’ll ever spend.

Best Leather

Bandolier tote bag.

If you prefer the look of a leather tote , we adore this one from Bandolier. Crafted from pebbled leather , it's more durable than smooth leather designs that can scuff easily. Besides the scrumptious material, the tote is the ideal size for trips and going to the office. We usually end up throwing our sunglasses somewhere in our tote, but this bag actually has a special compartment for them, in addition to a key leash, 15-inch laptop sleeve, and additional zip pockets. After filing the bag with all our items, it doesn’t weigh us down or become bulky. Though it doesn’t zip close, it does have a magnetic closure for extra security.

Best for Outdoors

Carhartt legacy east/west tote.

Material: Polyester | Dimensions: 16.5" x 13.5" x 7" | Colors: Black, Carhartt Brown

Outdoor trips require bags that are highly durable and versatile, such as this bag from Carhartt, which is made from water-repellent polyester . We love how we can keep our personal items organized for a road trip or camping getaway, without needing to worry about the bag staying dry or the fabric getting wrecked. The spacious tote also features plenty of pockets on both the inside and outside, including a zip-closure main compartment and long divider pocket , and it’s available in two neutral colors. After getting this tote in 2018, it’s still going strong.

Best Designer

Marc jacobs the medium tote bag.

Neiman Marcus

Fabric:  Cotton Canvas | Sizes: 13" L x 6" D x 11" H | Colors: 6

If your style is more of using a tote as your catch-all, this bag is definitely for you. “While this bag doesn't have as many compartments or the pass through sleeve for suitcases, I've found it's a great travel option," says fashion stylist Ashlyn Greer . "My laptop fits securely inside, and it sits easily on top of my suitcase for rolling through the airport." Greer also loves how you can take this bag from airport to meeting due to its stylish nature. In addition to a top handle, it also has a removable crossbody strap when we want to go hands free. Made from cotton canvas , the bag is meant to fade and relax over time, for a lived-in look.

What to Look for in a Travel Tote

• Material: Material is without a doubt a key player in your decision when getting a travel bag. For a super long-lasting option, we recommend keeping an eye out for full-grain leather or pebbled leather since it’s more durable and won’t show scuffs or scratches easily. If leather is not your vibe, we recommend a fabric that will be either stain-resistant or easy to clean, like nylon or polyester. A cotton canvas tote, can also be a great option, as it often can be hand or machine washed.
• Organization: The way you organize your bag is personal—and you should find the bag that works to your advantage. The obvious answer is if you like a lot of organization, choose the bag with more pockets. For long distance travel, we recommend looking for a bag with interior pockets and zippered exterior pockets. If you’re more of a catch-all bag kind of person, we recommend looking for a flat-canvas bottom and a structured silhouette to help you stay organized even with less pockets.
• Color: “I often opt for versatile shades like black, brown, or neutrals that seamlessly complement my travel wardrobe,” says Deseri Kelley , founder of a luxury handbag brand. But if you like your accessories to make more of a statement, we recommend sticking with deep hues of statement colors such as deep reds, greens, oranges, etc. You’ll still get a pop of color without dirt showing up easily.

"The perfect size should comfortably fit everything I require for my particular journey without becoming overly burdensome to carry,” says Kelley. If you plan on carrying your laptop in your tote, always double check the tote’s dimensions to see if it’s large enough.

One of the biggest mistakes you can make with your tote—or any bag for that matter—is to hang it in storage. The constant strain on the straps will gradually weaken them, leading them to break eventually. Instead, you should store your bags on a flat surface and consider stuffing them with tissue paper to help retain their shape.

Byrdie writer Rachel Simon has covered shopping and style extensively for publications including Glamour , InStyle , Brides , and more. She teaches writing with Gotham Writers Workshop and Redbud Writers Project.

Freelance fashion writer and full-time copywriter, Dagmara Cintron covers not only fashion, but local Los Angeles stories, rising Latina women stories, and more across other platforms. Having lived between LA and New York City for the last 4 years, she personally shopped around and tested countless travel bags and totes.

Emily Cieslak is an associate commerce editor, covering beauty and fashion. She personally uses the Caraa Studio Tote for commuting to work. Together, the writers interviewed these style experts for this article:

• Deseri Kelley is the founder of luxury handbag brand, DESERI— here she aims to make luxury handbags more accessible to people with a black woman-owned brand, at a reasonable price point. 
• Ashlyn Greer is a professional stylist and founder of Fashivly, a virtual personal styling service. 
• Marissa Galante Frank is Bloomingdale’s Fashion Director for Accessories and Beauty.

Related Stories

• The 18 Best Clip-On Earrings for Easy Accessorizing
• The 17 Best Amazon Sunglasses Deliver on Style and Fast Shipping
• The 12 Best Leather Tote Bags for Every Occasion
• The Best Pearl Necklace Brands to Shop for a Chic, On-Trend Jewelry Statement
• The 17 Best Crossbody Bags That Make Busy Days Easier
• 7 Handbag Colors That Go With Everything In Your Wardrobe
• I'm a Shopping Editor, and These Are the 13 Best Purse Brands I'm Loving Right Now
• 13 Molten Jewelry Pieces That Add a Maximalist Touch to Any Outfit
• The 24 Best Work Bags That Will Make You Look Chic and Professional
• The 10 Best Gucci Bags You’ll Never Regret Buying—From Dionysus to Diana
• The Only 3 Sales I’m Shopping This Weekend: 70% Off Kate Spade and Under-$25 Skincare
• The 11 Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens of 2024
• The 17 Best Designer Jeans Worth the Investment
• These 16 Best Dress Pants for Curvy Figures Deliver Comfort and Style
• I’m a Beauty Editor—These Are the 9 Best L’Oréal Mascaras I’ve Used After Testing Nearly Every One
• Hailey Bieber Wore the Perfect Little Black Bag, and I Found 7 Lookalikes From $17

Pack Hacker is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

18 Travel Totes for Any Trip | Best Travel Tote Bag

The ever-reliable tote bag’s simple design is great for hauling lots of gear, so let’s check out which one is the right fit for you.

The travel tote bag formula is very simple. It’s a large bag with two long handles, usually carried on one shoulder. This no-nonsense design makes it a very popular option for those just looking to haul a lot of gear around without having to deal with different compartments, lack of space, and fancy buckles and straps. Of course, this simplicity and lack of extra features can be a weakness. Fortunately, lots of brands have taken the concept of a travel tote and have spun off different and interesting designs. The question now is, which one is right for your needs?

We’ve teamed up with REI to bring you this roundup because it’s a great place to start your search for new gear. From bags and travel accessories to clothing for your next trip, they can help you get ready for any adventure. You get even more perks when you become an REI Co-op member , including free shipping, a generous return policy, and rewards worth an average of 10% back annually. Members can also shop the Re/Supply Store for access to returned gear that’s been thoroughly inspected and to trade in used items for other members to enjoy.

So, without further ado, let’s jump into the world of travel tote bags!

• Cotopaxi Taal Convertible Tote (Del Dia)
• REI Co-op Stuff Travel Pack (20L)
• Osprey Arcane Tote Pack
• Fjallraven Kanken Totepack
• The North Face Borealis Tote
• Patagonia Black Hole Gear Tote 61L
• YETI Camino 35 Carryall Tote Bag
• Herschel Supply Co. Strand Duffle
• Aer Go Tote 2
• Peak Design Packable Tote
• BAGGU Standard Baggu Tote
• Bellroy Market Tote
• Mission Workshop The Drift Tote
• Nanobag Reusable Shopping Bag
• RUX Waterproof Bag
• Bellroy Tokyo Wonder Tote 12L
• Aer City Tote
• Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack

Best for: Sustainable Travelers

A travel tote bag is probably the most utilitarian kind of bag out there, but that doesn’t mean it can’t look fun. Cotopaxi’s Taal Convertible Tote features a colorful design courtesy of recycled fabric and we like that they let the employees choose which ones to use per bag. Don’t mistake its environmental friendliness for lack of quality, either. Its zippers are from YKK, while the adjusters are from Woojin; both are well-regarded for their quality hardware. Bonus points: those adjusters from Woojin are colored as well to match the tote’s general vibe.

The basic tote formula still applies. You get a spacious main compartment and a front pocket, and you get a few nice extras. The former has a divider in the middle, a large water bottle pocket, and a small zippered pocket at the back. An underrated feature is its bright interior. We think this is the best travel tote bag if you carry a lot of dark-colored tech gear; it’s easy to see inside, thanks to the colorful fabric. We also welcome the backpack mode option, though we don’t always find it the most comfortable due to the Taal’s Tote’s thin composition and lack of padding.

• It’s made with unused materials from manufacturers that would otherwise be discarded
• We can fit larger bottles in the travel water bottle pocket
• The lack of structure makes it awkward to carry in backpack mode
• There’s no padding on the straps or back panel for added comfort

Since totes have the luxury of a simple design at their core, they make for great compressible bags you can have in reserve. Case in point: REI Co-op’s Stuff Travel Tote. Its key feature is the ability to compress from a 20-liter travel tote bag and down to a smartphone-sized pouch. To put that into perspective, that’s smaller than the 32-ounce Nalgene bottle we like to travel with. Even in its uncompressed form, tight dimensions are a key focus, as REI keenly points out that its linear dimensions comply with airport requirements (though that’s subject to change depending on the regulations).

As you can imagine, it doesn’t have a ton of luxuries to keep the design simple. Inside the main compartment is the lone zippered pocket where the whole Stuff Travel Tote packs into, which we like to use as a quick-stash pocket for small gear. However, we find it hard to see your gear inside the dark interior. Plus, the relatively thin fabric wrinkles when you compress the bag.

• It packs down to be smaller than your Nalgene water bottle
• This bag is made with bluesign®-approved materials
• It looks a bit wrinkly when you unpack it
• This carries more like a backpack

The Arcane Tote Pack from Osprey is technically a travel tote, but it wouldn't be out of place in a backpack roundup, either. This one's for those looking for the grab-and-go convenience of travel tote handles on a backpack. The handles themselves are relatively short, so our testers with bigger builds find them a bit tight. Fortunately, the backpack straps are well-padded in case you get tired of tote-style carrying.

Unlike open-top or zipped-up tote bags, the Arcane Tote Pack uses a rolltop closure and a zipper for its main compartment. It's not exactly fast access, but it is quite secure, which is great if that's a trade-off you're willing to make. We find it easy to find what we need inside thanks to the organization, including a padded laptop sleeve (with a false bottom) that can fit a 15-inch device, an additional sleeve for a smaller device, a key clip, plus smaller pen and mesh pockets.

• This rolltop bag includes amply padded shoulder straps if you’d rather carry it as a backpack
• It’s a travel tote that has simple yet effective organization that’s easy to use
• It’s inconvenient to access the key clip since it’s in the main compartment
• There are no water bottle pockets

Fans of Fjallraven will be delighted to know that we have found the best travel tote for you. The Kanken Totepack features the brand’s signature G-1000 fabric that’s coated with Greenland Wax for water resistance. The downside? Well, we find that the fabric attracts pet hair quite effectively, and the boxy styling and large logo can be polarizing, depending on who you ask. Apart from the long travel tote bag handles, there are also the usual Kanken grab handles. Plus, you can convert one-half of the tote handles to a pair of shoulder straps, though they are relatively thin.

The interior is rather barren, lacking any dividers or pockets for organizing gear, save for a 13-inch laptop sleeve at the back. To make up for it, there is a water bottle pocket on the outside and a front pocket with a bit of independent volume. On the plus side, this leaves most of the 14-liter capacity unobstructed and, therefore, maximized. The biggest con here is the dark interior (at least, of the black colorway), which we find makes sorting through gear quite tricky under poor lighting.

• It brings the Kanken style we like to a travel tote that can also be carried as a backpack
• The materials are durable and weather-resistant
• The material attracts lint and pet hair
• Its harness system makes this the best travel tote bag for smaller users

Best for: Relaxed Travelers

The North Face’s Borealis Tote is just as versatile as the other Borealis bags. Much more than a plain travel tote, we like the inclusion of a 13-inch laptop sleeve, an internal mesh pouch, and a pocket at the front for quick-grab items. It’s also fairly robust, with 300-denier and 600-denier recycled polyester options, plus 210-denier ripstop nylon if you choose to go for a solid-color design. There’s also a non-PFC durable water-repellent coating to keep water from soaking.

Oh, and have we mentioned that it could be used as a backpack as well? Yep, the tote handles, as thin-looking as they may seem, can be converted to a pair of shoulder straps, and they’re surprisingly comfortable, too. That said, the conversion isn’t perfect, as the back handle can catch against the back. Plus, you’ll want to learn from our mistakes and be careful to avoid grabbing the handle with the main compartment open because that can cause the whole bag to tilt and spill your gear.

• The external water bottle pockets and external bungees allow us to carry extra gear
• While the straps are minimal, they’re surprisingly comfortable to carry
• It can upend if you grab the rear handle on its own
• Seeing inside the front quick-access pocket is difficult

Even though Patagonia hasn’t stretched the limits of physics (yet), their Black Hole Gear Tote makes it seem like they’re close. With a rated capacity of 61 liters, you’ll have the freedom to fit just about anything that doesn’t require a forklift—including those bulky beach towels after they’ve picked up sand. Although its capacity is impressive, take note that it’s relatively bare bones, too. It has an open-top design secured only by two straps. The outside is lined with two daisy-chained loops, and there’s also a small front pocket for your everyday carry items. Other than that, you get very few frills and more features that matter.

The main compartment is a big empty space, unobstructed by dividers or small pockets. We like to use pouches or packing cubes to organize your gear, but you can also toss everything in willy-nilly if you don't feel like it. We really find the two compression straps at the top handy for locking gear into place when we pack it to the max. Regardless of how much you decide to carry, the Black Hole Gear Tote is tough as nails despite its simple design. The thick handles are bartack-stitched to the recycled polyester ripstop body. We also dig the glossy finish the TPU-film laminate provides, as well as the weather resistance it gives.

• The huge capacity will allow you to bring a ton or to use it for beach towels at the lake
• TPU-film laminate on the recycled polyester ripstop makes this bag extremely durable and weather-resistant
• Webbing handles could dig into your shoulders if you pack the 61L full of heavy gear
• You can also get it in a 25L capacity if you like the style but find the size just too much to fit on the plane or your car trunk

If you’re looking for the best travel tote for rugged adventures, then consider YETI’s Camino 35 Carryall Tote Bag. From its ThickSkin Shell, which you can easily clean by hosing it down with water, to its molded EVA bottom, it’s a tote that can take the rough and tumble of outdoor adventures. Because of its sturdy construction, the Camino also stands well on its own, making packing just that tiny bit easier. Other goodies include daisy-chained loops at the front, two zippered pockets in the main compartment, and collapsible dividers to keep gear organized. They work really great with various types of YETI bottles, so if you’re as big of a fan as we are, you’ll like this feature.

And we think you’ll want to use nicely insulated bottles like those because the only let-down about the 35-liter Camino is that it’s not a cooler bag. Despite its shared aesthetic with other YETI bags like the Hopper Flip 18 and Hopper M30, there is no insulation, nor is there a zippered closure for the main compartment. There’s only a single strap to hold the opening together, and it's secured by a simple G-hook. Still, it’s a tote that’s spacious and well-appointed with features with toughness as its headlining feature.

• Its waterproof and puncture-resistant ThickSkin™ Shell is very resilient against abrasions in outdoor use
• Loops on the front are great places to clip extra gear, like a Bluetooth speaker or a damp travel towel
• Although it’s a YETI, it’s not a cooler
• While it has waterproof construction on the bottom and sides, allowing us to set it in the damp bottom of the boat, the top is open to the elements if it starts to rain

Herschel Supply Co.'s Strand Duffle may not strictly be a tote, but it has the hallmarks of one. We're particularly digging the padded handles on this tote/duffle hybrid. These are cushy enough that they remind us more of backpack shoulder straps than the minimalist strips other basic totes tout. Unfortunately, this isn't one of those sets of tote handles that magically convert to backpack straps, but at least we still get to enjoy them. However, it’s worth noting that they’re a little stiff at first and take some time to break in.

At 28.5 liters, space isn't an issue, especially when you unfasten the sides for expansion, but organization and interior visibility can still be tricky. Even though there are slip pockets on the outside for quick-grab items and travel water bottles, we wish there were at least one zippered pocket in the main compartment for small valuables you don't want in an open exterior pocket. That said, our Ivy Green colorway has a red and white pinstripe pattern, so visibility is pretty solid. We can’t vouch for other liner colors, though.

• It has nicely padded carry handles more reminiscent of a backpack than a travel tote bag
• If you prefer this style for one-bag travel, this is the best travel tote bag for weekend getaways
• There are no pockets on the inside for small gear
• Some of our testers would like to have the option of adding a longer crossbody strap, but there’s nowhere to clip one

Despite being touted as a packable tote, Aer's Go Tote 2 doesn't feel all that compact. It folds flat or can be rolled to roughly the size of two t-shirts; quite the footprint when you're trying to be space-efficient with your travel bag. That said, it's a feature-packed tote, as expected of a bag from Aer. The most notable of these features is the magnetic buckle of the front pocket. We find it fast and easy to use when you're trying to stuff museum brochures and maps while you're exploring a new city.

You get not one but two water bottle pockets on the Go Tote 2's sides. Mind you, we find that filling both of these takes away space from the main compartment. At the back, there's a small zippered pocket for valuables you'd want to keep close to you, such as your passport and wallet. The main compartment is guarded by a zippered closure that, unfortunately, has gaps on either end of the track that can still let rain and dirt inside. In terms of organization, there’s a laptop sleeve that can fit a 16-inch MacBook Pro, but we wish it had some padding to protect your device. The size is impressive, but we'd suggest using a dedicated laptop sleeve if you're putting a device that large inside.

• The front pocket closes with a magnetic buckle you can open one-handed
• A snapped loop helps hold the handles together on this travel tote bag
• It has a large footprint for a packable tote
• There’s no padding on the laptop sleeve, so you’ll want extra protection

The Peak Design Packable Tote has two things going for it. Firstly, it's a lightweight and compressible travel tote bag that you can stash away in your travel bag. Who wants to carry a 40-liter backpack to the beach just to bring a few towels and sandwiches? No one! We find that a tote like this will fill that role perfectly. Its lack of structure or liner does make it a bit too minimal for heavier duties, but for clothes, beach towels, and toiletries, it'll get the job done. But what if it snags on a seashell or—if you're really unlucky—a beach umbrella? Well, that's where its second headlining feature comes in.

Three words (and a hyphen): self-healing nylon. Although it won't survive getting torn to shreds, the fabric is able to heal small abrasions. Think of scratches from setting the travel tote on rough pavement or getting stepped on by careless beachgoers. It's worth noting that the handles are quite thin, and comfort is noticeably affected despite having light padding.

• Self-healing nylon takes care of light damage to the material
• This is the best travel tote if you’re looking for something compressible that works well as a secondary bag
• There’s no structure or liner material
• It has minimal organization, so pouches and cubes are handy to have

The Standard Baggu Tote is about as barebones as it gets, and that's not necessarily a bad thing. Its super lightweight and thin construction makes it super easy to slip between packing cubes or even in tight security pockets, so we can have it handy when we need it. Compressibility like this comes courtesy of its plain ripstop nylon construction, though that means you'll have to handle this quite gently. Ripstop nylon will stop small rips from deteriorating, but even those minor ones can happen easily.

However, our biggest gripe about the Standard Baggu Tote is the way it carries. Unlike typical totes, which sit perpendicular to your torso, this one sits parallel. This means you have to sling it over your shoulder or carry it like a shopping bag—which makes sense given their similar designs. That said, this raw simplicity is sometimes all you need. It's a reusable shopping bag you can easily take with you on trips.

• It’s a market tote that’s lightweight and folds down small in case you need it
• There are tons of fun colorways and prints to choose from
• It’s awkward to carry over your shoulder
• There’s no structure, so it can’t stand on its own

Best for: Professional Travelers

Even though we like travel totes for how spacious and uncomplicated they are, sometimes there are amenities worth having. For totes that are designed for grocery runs, we're specifically looking for some organization, although not so much that it ruins the truckbed-like openness we like. That's what the Bellroy Market Tote feels like. It's lightweight, has three wine bottle-sized pockets, and is easy to clean in case the juice from our produce leaks inside. One subtle design choice we dig is the gusseted floor, which allows the tote to stand fairly well, provided it's sufficiently packed.

The pocket layout is a bit one-sided, however. With that in mind, packing strategically should be considered to avoid weight imbalance. The Market Tote's relatively thin handles don't have much in the way of cushioning (read: no padding), so you wouldn't want to put too much stress on them more than what's necessary.

• It’s a travel tote with internal organization to keep items protected
• The inside is easy to clean
• The pockets are designed for specific items, so you need to pack smart
• While it can pack up, it doesn’t include a carry case

Mission Workshop's take on a travel tote design is a bit more techy and urbanized. Don't think that's limited to its gray and black styling, though. There's a front pocket that's laden with smaller organization for everyday items ranging from battery banks to snacks. Plus, there's independent access to the laptop compartment, which, by the way, can fit a 16-inch laptop, is padded, and has a false bottom for added protection.

Apart from fitting a laptop in that compartment, you can still get a ton of gear in the main compartment. The 28-liter capacity is spacious enough for organizers and clothing, and we have an easy time packing them in because of the Drift Tote's structured body. Mind you, a fully packed out Drift Tote can get quite hefty, and, unfortunately, the thin shoulder strap lacks the padding for comfortable extended carrying.

• It’s spacious enough to double as a daily driver and weekend bag
• Laptop compartment is floating, well-padded, and is accessed separately from the main compartment
• The shoulder strap lacks padding for comfort during extended carry
• Its rugged materials won’t suit all styles

Best for: Frugal Travelers

When traveling the world, you never know when you may need another bag. That’s why we like the Nanobag Reusable Shopping Bag. It comes in four styles: two standard grocery-style bags, one crossbody, and one drawstring bag. So pick the one that speaks to you, depending on if you’re heading to the market, the beach, or exploring the city. They all pack up into a package that fits in the palm of your hand, so it’s easy to find space for one in your travel backpack, and the ultralight materials include a waterproof coating, which is more than you can say for a grocery bag.

These are packable bags, so they are a bit wrinkly, and they sacrifice shoulder padding for size. That can make carrying heavier items uncomfortable, though, for the most part, they feel fine. We like that the stuff sack is attached since those are so easy to lose on the road. Overall, these bags are great travel companions for those who like to travel lightly and want to prepare for different situations in an unfamiliar city.

• It has surprisingly good water-resistance
• Each of the four styles fit into the palm of your hand when packed
• The lack of padding can be uncomfortable
• While it’s nice that the stuff sack is attached, it can occasionally get in the way

When we’re heading out for a day on the boat, there are always things we want to bring along. Snacks, primarily, but also extra sunscreen, a hat, towel, and maybe an extra layer if the wind picks up while we’re on the water; you get the idea. While you could toss all that in a standard travel tote bag, you’ll want something more water-resistant in case the pilot steers your vessel right into the wake of the yacht in front of you or the skies open up on a previously cloudless day. That’s why we like to bring the RUX Waterproof Bag along, whether we’re hitting the lake on a pontoon or exploring a local river in a kayak. The 840-denier nylon fabric is coated with TPU, making it extra water-resistant, and all of the seams are RF-welded to close any gaps. Plus, you can seal the top’s rolltop design.

We like that it’s so tall because it means we can bring along more gear without taking up precious floor space. Despite its thin appearance, the shoulder strap is surprisingly comfortable, although your mileage may vary as to how long you find that to be true. On the other hand, the tote handles are best carried by hand, as they feel too tight to sling over your shoulder.

If you need more space, you can pair it with the RUX 70L to create some waterproof organization in that big bag, and if you’re looking for something in a similar size with more flexibility, you may want to check out the RUX Bag 25L .

• The rolltop stows away easily when you don’t need it
• It’s nice being able to bring such a high-capacity bag along during water activities
• Its bulky size makes the rolltop difficult to use
• The included handles are very thin

The Bellroy Tokyo Wonder Tote 12L takes the concept of a tote—a simple, open bag with large handles—and adds a lot of features you want in a daily carry, like a laptop sleeve, a bottle pocket, pen slots, and a key leash. But even with all of that segmentation, there’s minimal clutter to get in the way of your gear, and the fairly rigid structure of the tote makes it easy to pack.

There’s a gusseted front zipper pocket that’s split in two for everyday carry essentials like pens, a phone, wallet, and keys, plus there’s an external document sleeve that closes with a snap on a loop so you can grab what you need quickly, or have a space to slide your travel journal. The main compartment is where you’ll find space for your 14-inch laptop (or 16-inch if you go with the larger size tote), a zippered mesh pocket for tech accessories or other travel essentials, and a bottle pocket. We find it great to carry to and from the office and use on the plane since it zips up to keep your gear from rolling a few rows back during takeoff.

• The rubber liners on the tote handles give them good grip so they don’t slip off your shoulder
• It offers a good amount of organization for a tote
• The internal bottle pocket is rather shallow, so you may not be able to zip it up with a taller bottle inside
• The 12L capacity feels small when fully loaded, so it’s more of a daily carry bag than a gear hauler

Aer is pretty much made for city life, so it’s no surprise that we love the Aer City Tote for exploring a new metropolis and hitting a store or market, as well as for commuting to and from the office in style. The 1680D CORDURA® ballistic nylon on this travel tote bag gives it a sleek structure that makes it easy to pack as it sits upright. It has long enough handles to carry comfortably over your shoulder and a keeper to hold them together, which we really like since there’s nothing more annoying than having one handle continually slip off your shoulder.

The front panel features a large pocket that opens with a vertical zipper in the center. That can make it awkward to pack, but it’s good for larger, flat items like a travel journal, a book, or an extra layer. There’s a smaller quick-grab pocket on the back for your phone, plus a luggage pass-through to make it easier to carry through the airport with your rolling carry on luggage . Even though it’s a tote, the inside has padded sleeves for both a 16-inch laptop and a tablet so that you can be productive throughout the day. There’s also a zipper pocket that’s the right size for a phone, wallet, keys, and other such travel essentials, and two large slip pockets where we like to slip over-the-ear noise-canceling headphones, wall chargers, and battery banks. However, you may want to opt for another bag when it rains since there are gaps at either end of the zipper tracks where moisture can get inside your bag.

• It’s structured to stand on its own next to your chair
• A built-in keeper holding the straps together is attached so you can’t accidentally lose it
• Gear can fall out of gaps at the end of the zipped top
• The front vertical pocket is awkward to use without spilling your gear

Sometimes, you want a bag; sometimes, you don’t. Sometimes, you want a tote; sometimes, you want a backpack. Patagonia has created a packable tote pack for the wishy-washy among us, and for those travelers who like to be ready for everything. It’s small enough to toss in the bottom of your travel backpack when you’re unsure if you’ll need an extra bag or not, and the ripstop nylon material is super lightweight, so it won’t drag you down.

• You can pack it away in a compression pocket when you don’t need it
• Sometimes you feel like a tote, sometimes you don’t, so it’s nice to have backpack straps, too
• It looks a little wrinkly when unpacked
• There’s minimal padding on the harness system since it’s a packable bag

In conclusion, you can haul a lot of gear with a tote, and it’s just a matter of the extra features you want on top of that. Whether it’s additional organization, compressibility, or super sturdy construction, there’s bound to be a flavor of tote to suit your needs. Did any of the totes above pique your interest? Let us know, and be sure to check out even more totes at REI .

March 7, 2023

Author: Jude Miguel De Leon

Miguel loves road trips and actively takes the scenic route to make things interesting. When he's not behind the wheel with a trunk full of gear, you'll find him tinkering with a computer; a hobby he picked up while watching tech reviews starting at age 12. You'll never see him consider a product without being armed with plenty of product research & testing first.

Best Travel Tote Bag to Carry Everything You Need on the Plane

FASHION , Handbags , Travel Accessories

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

We’ve all had bags that were too small to fit our in-flight essentials. Don’t fret—the perfect accessory for you is out there! From large travel tote bags, to totes with multiple compartments, you can use one of these versatile, spacious bags on the plane or while sightseeing!

Best Travel Totes

Table of contents.

If you find a bag that works for you, it’s sometimes like finding the Holy Grail! You don’t want to be weighed down while sightseeing or running from meeting to meeting, yet you need to carry all of your stuff. The lightweight travel totes of today allow you to meet all your packing and carrying needs while remaining somewhat unencumbered. 

When traveling on a budget airline, lighter fabrics are ideal. They keep the weight from your bag to a minimum, allowing you to maximize the allowance towards your actual belongings. The leather in modern bags is also smoother and less stiff than you may remember it to be. So how are you supposed to choose? 

Our readers have weighed in with the best tote bags for travel they’ve found, which are not only practical, but stylish enough for the (airport) runway!

What Is the Best Carry-On Tote Bag?

Shop Baggallini Avenue Tote: Amazon | Zappos | Target

Baggalini Avenue Travel Tote Bag With Pockets

One of our favorite carry on totes for travel, this classic from Baggallini fits a 13″ laptop and has trolley sleeve to slide over your rolling suitcase. Made from a water-resistant canvas, this sleek bag is a must-have among readers who use theirs for business travel. It’s also excellent for a trip abroad as it comes with secure zippered compartments and RFID blocking technology.

One avid user says, “ As a flight attendant, I need a tote that I can also use as a purse/ bag-on-the-go. This bag is hands down the best purchase I’ve gotten for my traveling life and career. It’s made with very nice quality material, the pockets are great and organize everything I have, and it’s the perfect size to strut around the airport.”

Read this post to find out our favorite cute backpacks for travel!

Shop Tumi Just In Case Tote: Amazon | Nordstrom | Tumi

Tumi Voyageur Just In Case Nylon Tote Bag

The Tumi Just In Case  strikes the right balance between the best travel carry on tote and purse you’ve ever owned. Designed with travelers in mind, this lightweight design folds down small, but opens wide enough to hold a laptop, purse, a jacket and a bottle of water. One reader says it’s also “pretty light, also has a long strap for crossbody wear.”

Find out what our readers have to say about their Tumi Bags in our review !

Shop Longchamp Tote Bag: Nordstrom | Bloomingdale’s | Longchamp

Longchamp Le Pliage Large Shoulder Tote Bag  

Classic in style, with a Longchamp is a brand known for quality and design. The Le Pliage tote is made from water-resistant nylon with an embossed leather trim. This best-seller is versatile enough for school, the office or traveling the world. It comes in a range of chic shades and folds flat for storage.

Read our Longchamp purse review and find out why female travelers love this brand!

Scarleton Reversible Tote

Scarleton Stylish Reversible Tote Handbag

This adorable, fashionable tote from Scarleton is reversible (in two colors), allowing you to adopt different looks or moods depending on what you have planned on a travel day. It’s also roomy enough to fit your essentials.

Made of vegan leather, it comes with a cute coin bag, and has lovely gold hardware detailing that makes it chic, yet classic. Choose from nine different shades to fit your personal style!

Read this post to find out what we think the best business backpack is for your next adventure!

Reisenthel Shopper Tote

Reisenthel Travel Tote With Zipper

The Reisenthel ’s unique lateral zipper increases the volume of this convertible tote. Combined with a spacious main compartment and zippered inner pocket for security, you have plenty of room to carry your stuff – with room to spare! It’s also made with quality, durable fabric and collapses down for easy storage when not in use. It comes in a range of stylish colors and patterns too!

One reader swears by the brand saying, “I have had MANY items by this brand—all are 10 years old or older—and they hold up great and are top quality.”

You’ll want to look your best when you travel! Read my travel tips to Pack Light Stylishly !

BOSTANTEN Tote Bags Travel

BOSTANTEN Large Leather Travel Totes

While nylon is very practical for travel, leather offers a chic addition to any outfit. Business travelers might like this style by BOSTANTEN . It fits up to a 15” laptop and has a zippered enclosure. Plus, it’s available in various colors.

One reader says, “It’s great for all my stuff, but looks like a nice purse. I’ve only used it on one trip so far, but it feels like it will last for many years to come!”

Another reader agrees saying, “I just got home from my first trip with this bag—it’s amazing quality for the price! I’m willing to take out with me to a nice dinner as I would a purse. If you’re looking for the ideal ‘professional’ personal item, check this out!” 

Tip: the above tote includes a crossbody strap for optimal versatility!

You can save space by packing one of the best beach bags and totes !

Fjallraven Totepack No.1

Fjallraven Womens Travel Tote 

This Fjallraven is the closest you may get to bag perfection. Made from polyester and cotton, it has three compartments for essentials of all sizes. Stash your everyday gear in the main compartment, important items in the security  pocket, and quick-access things up front. It only weighs 1.2lbs, which makes it great for travel. Plus it comes in 14 gorgeous colours, so you can choose a shade as bright as your personality!

One reader calls it her favorite carry-all. “I highly recommend the Fjällräven this bag, which can be carried over the shoulder or as a  backpack.”

Our readers chose the best travel bags with trolley sleeve . Take a look at their top recommendations!

Bric Sportina

Bric Sportina Large Travel Tote Bag With Zipper

The Bric Sportina ’s handcrafted satin nylon is waterproof, and you can adjust its shoulder straps for crossbody carrying. This lightweight tote bag for travel is easy-to-clean and won’t fade in the sun, which makes it perfect for carrying all vacation long or as an everyday work accessory. It also comes in three timeless colors, black, navy and olive green.

Durable and secure, with a handy external pocket, our readers have nothing but high praise for it. One reader says she loves hers and calls it “very cute. It holds a ton!” We also love the handle slide feature on the back side, which allows you to secure the tote on top of your rolling carry on!

Read this post to see the affordable bags similar to longchamp le pliage tote!

Michael Kors Travel Tote Bags with Zipper

Michael Kors Large Carry On Tote 

What’s large enough for all your things, yet doesn’t weigh you down? It’s not a joke—it’s the cute Jet Set by travel tote designer Michael Kors. While it is a tote, it is small enough to use a purse, and with its classic silhouette, smooth saffiano leather, and buckled shoulder straps, readers can’t sing its praises high enough. 

This versatile number has a buckled shoulder strap, so it can be worn crossbody and has a zippered top for added security whilst enjoying the hustle and bustle of a new city.

Not sure what the best travel day bag for your next trip is? Check out this post !

Sherpani Camden

Sherpani Camden Travel Tote Backpack

This Sherpani tote can be used as a shoulder bag or backpack. It is made from durable recycled fabrics and is available in 4 colours. Readers love it for its trolley sleeve, and it’s versatility. One says she uses it almost daily and travels with it often for work.

Another agrees saying, “It works perfectly to hold my water bottle, umbrella, my Surface Pro, phones, sunglasses, wallet, book, scarf and snacks. I even have a second pair of shoes in there, too!”

Find out what our readers have to say about their Sherpani bags in this review !

Madewell Travel Tote Bags with Pockets

Madewell Black Travel Tote

This is one bag that goes with everything! Clean and modern in supple black or tan leather, this roomy accessory with comfortable over-the-shoulder straps by Madewell gets high marks from readers for whom style and quality are big concerns. 

It’s not too overwhelming, yet there’s more than enough room for all your essentials. It has an inside pocket to help you stay organized, plus an outer slip-in pocket for quick access!

These are the best day pack for travel !

MZ Wallace Lightweight Tote Bags for Travel

MZ Wallace Totes Travel Bag

This pretty blue and black diamond-quilted nylon bag has supple, yet durable construction making every day use a breeze. Readers love its cool vibe, and say it’s lightweight, stores easily, and holds all your stuff in three roomy zip pouches. For a day trip with the kids, a work event, or a stroll while window shopping, you’ll walk with confidence, elegance and keen organizational skills.

Find out the best fanny pack for travel!

Kate Spade New York All Day Large Tote

Kate Spade Black Travel Tote Bag

Pebbled leather and slim over-the-shoulder straps make this Kate Spade accessory a sophisticated designer favorite of TFG readers. This wear-with-anything, perfect travel tote is ideal for a laptop, which adds to its popularity. One reader loves hers saying, “It makes a great work bag.”

Looking for cute laptop bags for travel? Check out this post !

Tory Burch Ella Tote Bag

Tory Burch Luxury Travel Tote

Tory Burch makes some of the best designer travel totes on the market and one reader who scored this beauty and was completely taken in by its logo motif, symbolizing the dual offerings of form and function. She said, “I’m traveling to Europe in September. It will hold everything I need, and I am a very happy girl!”

Here are the best luggage for business travel that will keep you organized and streamlined!

Mali + Lili Ray Estie Recycled Vegan Leather Tote

Mali + Lili Recycled Vegan Leather Tote

Readers call this “unicorn of bags” and rate it as the best carry on tote for international travel. The Mali + Lili Estie Recycled Vegan Leather Tote combines your carry all needs into one sleek package. At $60, it’s cheap, but it’s vegan-friendly leather makes it well worth the money. 

We love the sustainable tote style with a well-organized interior and a detachable coin pouch. For even more versatility, it comes with r emovable zip pouch, padded compartment fits most 15″ laptops and structured silhouette with flat base and protective metal feet.

One reader said, “I was reluctant to get it at first, but I’m glad that I did. It’s the nicest one that I’ve ever seen. They market it as a workout bag, but it’s so multifunctional that it’ll make a great travel bag too.”

These are the top convertible purses according to our readers!

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Tote

Lo & Sons Deluxe Personal Carry On Totes

One of the best totes for travel as voted by readers is the Catalina Deluxe Tote by Lo & Sons. This puppy is built for trips anywhere, having a bottom compartment for shoes and tons of organizational pockets. This can be used as a sightseeing bag, or even a beach tote by removing the bottom compartment to have more room to put essentials. 

This comes with a trolley sleeve and can slide over your suitcase. Note, that the deluxe size can’t be categorized as a personal item, but does fit in overhead compartments. They’re also offered in a Deluxe Small  and a  Deluxe Large  which make awesome carry ons and weekender bags!

And this company believes in sustainability, as the bag’s material is recycled poly. Choose from several colors to suit your style!

Find out why our readers love their Lo & Sons bags in this review !

L.L. Bean Everyday Lightweight Tote

L.L. Bean Everyday Tote Bag

L.L. Bean’s Everyday tote is a must-have for souvenir shopping, hauling gear to the beach, carrying groceries to your Airbnb, or storing essentials for a long flight. This ultra-versatile bag has a top zipper to ensure none of your belongings fall out or no one reaches inside, and the fabric is highly resilient but also super lightweight. As a bonus, it has a cute look and comes in a lot of pretty colors!

One reader who uses this tote as her personal item offers another amazing perk: it folds up small and makes an awesome spare bag that’ll come in handy throughout your travels!

Best Travel Tote Carry On Comparison Chart

[wpsm_comparison_table id=”209″ class=”center-table-align”]

What do you think are the best carryon tote bag ? Share and comment below!

For more Ideas on travel handbags, please read:

• How to Choose a Travel Purse
• Why Cross Body Purses are the Best Travel Shoulder Bags for Women
• Worried about pickpockets, these are the top Anti-Theft Bags 
• How to Keep Your Passport Safe While Traveling

LIKE THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!

We hope you liked this post on the best women’s travel totes. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

The Sherpani tote packs are seriously amazing!!

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The 10 Best Travel Totes, According to Our Editors

Carry your essentials in style.

Our editors handpick the products that we feature. We may earn commission from the links on this page.

What to look for

It's true that preferences vary—which is exactly why we have 10 different travel totes across different sizes, styles, and price points that have been hand-selected by our editors. Here are the core elements our editors considered when testing:

• Size: The size of your tote bag is dependent on where and why you are traveling. While a quick trip may require a smaller option, international travel may mean you need a roomier interior with lots of storage options.
• Materials: Ideally, your travel tote should be resilient enough to carry and protect all your essentials. Sturdy canvas, sleek nylon, and durable polyester knits are always good options that you can find in a range of styles and price points.
• Colors: We can always stand behind a neutral bag in the world of black, navy, brown, or tan. But if you're partial to bright colors or patterns, we have you covered there, too.
• Travel features: Trolley sleeves and top zippers help tote bags go the extra mile when traveling.

How we chose

To determine our top picks, our fashion, lifestyle, and commerce editors spent days upon months upon years searching and testing tote bags in search of our favorites through airplanes, trains, and automobiles. The results are authentic recommendations based on our lived experiences as industry experts. Of course, specific criteria from size, material, and travel features like laptop and trolley sleeves were kept top of mind throughout our selection process.

From Amazon gems to chic woven options, our editors' picks for the 10 best travel tote bags cover a range of styles and price points.

Bagsmart Women's Tote Bag with Zipper

Bagsmart's affordable gem delivers without breaking the bank. It's extremely lightweight to the point that it almost feels like it's filled with down—which makes expanding a breeze. From boxing gloves to a change of shoes, we were impressed by how much we were able to fit inside when testing. A spacious interior with a padded laptop section and top zipper keep all of your belongings secure.

Dimensions: 16'' x 6''x 13'' | Materials: Polyester and nylon | Colors: Beige, black, pink, grayish brown, dark pink, purple, navy blue, light blue, and pale orange | Trolley Sleeve : No | Top Zipper: Yes

August Noa Everyday Canvas Tote

August Noa's everyday canvas tote is so beloved that Oprah Daily fashion editor Sara Klausing sees editors carrying it at nearly every event she goes to. "From the double handle options to the roomy interior, it's ideal for anything from a daily commute to international travel," says Klausing. Interior compartments and an exclusive, padded laptop section keep your essential organized and protected.

Dimensions: 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" | Materials: Recycled c otton canvas | Colors: Natural and black | Trolley Sleeve : Yes | Top Zipper: Yes

Beis North to South Tote Bag

Oprah Daily associate editor Shelby Copeland rocks her Beis tote, a tried-and-trusted brand for seasoned travelers, on the daily to help keep up with her busy schedule. Plenty of exterior and interior pockets help keep her organized, while long, thick straps help support the shoulders. Plus, there's a removable crossbody strap in case you want to switch up the silhouette.

Dimensions: 13.39" x 15.16" x 4.72" | Materials: Recycled polyester | Colors: Beige and black | Trolley Sleeve : Yes | Top Zipper: Yes

Brouk & Co Capri Everyday Stripe Tote

“You get a lot of bang for your buck with this cotton canvas tote," Oprah said of this Brouk & Co beauty when highlighting it in this year's Favorite Things List . "Smart-looking, with vegan leather accents. Doesn’t it look like a more expensive bag? It’s just right for the person in your life who needs to schlep a lot of stuff." It's just the right balance of structured and easily carried thanks to a defined silhouette and thick, wide straps.

Dimensions: 18" x 14" x 6" | Materials: Canvas, nylon, and vegan leather | Colors: Brown stripe and blue stripe | Trolley Sleeve : No | Top Zipper: No

Paravel Large Cabana Tote

Oprah Daily market director Rae Ann Herman is often seen toting her Paravel. Whether you choose from the small, medium, or large size, the spacious interior offers plenty of room for a travel sweater and other essentials. Paravel's structured style is ideal for seamlessly stacking on top of luggage or on the seat next to you.

Dimensions: 23.75" x 14.5" x 7.5" | Other Sizes: Small and medium | Materials: Recycled canvas and vegan leather | Colors: Shandy beige/tan, Paloma beige/red/blue, marlin gray/blue, and domino black/white | Trolley Sleeve : No | Top Zipper: No

MZ Wallace Medium Metro Tote Deluxe

MZ Wallace came up more than a few times when discussing travel totes in the Oprah Daily office. The brand's signature exterior is made from a lightweight padding that's filled with material from recycled water bottles. The end result is a travel bag that expands and reshapes easily for different travel functions. “It's lightweight and scrunches enough to put under the seat in front of you or in an overhead bin," says Glassman.

Dimensions: 11.6" x 12.7" x 9.4" | Materials: Recycled nylon | Colors: Cornflower blue, black, magnet gray, navy blue, acid yellow, green plaid, cherry, denim blue, dahlia, ocher dark yellow, walnut, moss green, pebble white, raisin, and summer shale print | Trolley Sleeve : No | Top Zipper: Yes

Rothy's Lightweight Mega Tote

Oprah Daily E-commerce and SEO manager Aaron Radford-Wattley is constantly testing and reviewing product us, and swears by Rothy's mega tote for travel days as well as everyday wear. "It feels secure but has easy access to things you need quickly, like your passport," says Radford-Wattley."Day to day, when I want to just throw in everything, I can fit it in the crook of my arm or over my shoulder. It feels durable, and it's machine-washable, so you don't have to worry about it getting dirty."

Dimensions: 13.6" x 19.7" x 7.4" | Materials: Recycled knit | Colors: Cornflower blue, black, magnet gray, navy blue, acid yellow, green plaid, cherry, denim blue, dahlia, ocher dark yellow, walnut, moss green, pebble white, raisin, and summer shale print | Trolley Sleeve : No | Top Zipper: No

Fabletics Everyday Tote

Oprah Daily assistant editor Jane Burnett says this Fabletics style has become her favorite travel tote. "It's lightweight and has zillions of storage spaces (nine, to be exact). The top zipper closure also helps keep my belongings super secure while on the go." Sporty finishes like carabiner zippers and a satiny fabric finish give this tote a modern feel.

Dimensions: 19.2" x 6.3" x 14" | Materials: Nylon | Colors: Cornflower blue, black, magnet gray, navy blue, acid yellow, green plaid, cherry, denim blue, dahlia, ocher dark yellow, walnut, moss green, pebble white, raisin, and summer shale print | Trolley Sleeve : No | Top Zipper: Yes

L.L. Bean Boat and Tote

Oprah Daily creative director Adam Glassman calls this L.L. Bean classic the best travel tote . "They're so lightweight," says Glassman. "You can carry one with you or throw it in your luggage if you're traveling." The beauty of the heavy-duty blank canvas is that you can customize it to your heart's desire. Choose from different sizes, a top zip option, and even personalization.

Dimensions: 12" x 13" x 6" | Materials: Heavy-duty cotton canvas | Colors: Navy, olive, black, khaki, dark green, graphite, mauve, natural, red, regatta blue, slate, and vintage rose | Trolley Sleeve : No | Top Zipper: Optional

Naghedi Cashmere St. Barths Medium Tote

How chic is this carryall? Oprah Daily beauty director Kate Sandoval Box has sported this Naghedi tote for commuting and traveling for years. You'll get extra style points for the gorgeous color and timeless woven design, but the real win is how much you can actually fit in the spacious interior.

Dimensions: 17" x 9" x 5" | Materials: Recycled nylon | Colors: Cashmere, black, and ecru | Trolley Sleeve : No | Top Zipper: Yes

Sara Klausing covers all things fashion and style for Oprah Daily . Follow her on Instagram .

Easy Summer Outfits Start with These Linen Pants

26 Travel Outfit Essentials for Your Summer Trips

The 20 Best Waterproof Phone Pouches

Our Editors Break Down the Best Laptop Bags

16 Pajama Sets That Are the Epitome of Cozy

The Best Backpacks for Your Summer Travels

Upgrade Your Sandals to Podiatrist-Approved Styles

15 Best Beach Hats for Sunny Days Ahead

Classic Button-Down Shirts for Women

16 Pairs of Sunnies That Look Great on Round Faces

60 Best Gifts for Men Who Have Everything

15 Best Travel Tote Bags for Your Next Getaway

Perfect for all your in-flight essentials and more.

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Now that the holiday rush is over and we’ve ushered in a new year, it’s time to set our sights on the next thing to look forward to, like a vacation, perhaps. Indeed, as we settle into some of the most admittedly bleak months of the year, we find travel to be especially inspiring. Whether you’re taking flight, making plans, or just daydreaming, there are so many ways to brighten up these winter days. Go ahead and pack your best travel tote bag, the sheer idea of a getaway is guaranteed to make you smile.

Best Overall Tote

Dagne dover landon neoprene carryall bag.

Best Sustainable Tote

Cuyana recycled weekender.

Best Colorful Tote

Beis travel the weekender in black.

Read on to see the most versatile, quality picks—with price and style in mind—that’ll carry you through your travel itineraries for years to come.

Capacity matters when it comes to the duration of a trip, so it’s a good thing this one comes in five different sizes to choose from From local wandering to international trips, you’ll be holding onto this baby for years.

Dimensions: Length: 1 6.5 inches; height: 11 inches; depth: 9 inches

Colors: Scout Tan, Domino Black

Material: Neoprene, mesh, recycled REPREVE®

Customer review: “We have transitioned all of our travel bags over to Dagne Dover....the number of compartments cannot be matched by any other competitor.”

Whether it’s the impressive quality of the regenerated plastic, the roomy interior, or the fact that it’s completely machine-washable, Cuyana’s weekender can do no wrong in my eyes.

Dimensions: Length: 22.5 inches; height: 14.5 inches; depth: 7 inches

Colors: Cappuccino, Black

Material: Recycled plastic

Customer review: “Can easily be carried on the street, but holds a surprising amount when packing. I rolled clothes, stuffed it, stillHeld laptop and iPad. Btw, it can def be stuffed under the seat if you have a separate carry on in the bins.”

Spice up your collection with a pop of color. One of BEIS’ best-selling products, this beauty features one of my favorite compartments a tote can offer: a separate space for your shoes.

Dimensions: Length: 19 inches; height: 15.7 inches; depth: 9.8 inches

Colors: 9 options

Material: Poly canvas, vegan leather, nylon

Customer review: “This design is fabulous. The size is perfect for a 3-4 day trip and it saves me from having to make a large suitcase. I love this bag.”

MZ Wallace Deluxe Large Metro Tote

MZ Wallace is always a reliable choice and totally editor-approved . Get ready for your life to get a whole lot more organized; not only does this Metro Tote have countless pockets, but includes three zip-top pouches.

Dimensions: Length: 15 inches; height: 16 inches; depth: 10 inches

Colors: Black

Material: Nylon

Customer review: “It has all the great pockets and pouches you need to organize your carry-on necessities and it has the trolley sleeve....you can fit your daily purse inside the tote so you have something smaller upon arrival. The polished look is simple and classic, and I know I look like an effortless, style-mavin as I glide through travel days. Grab one, you won't be sorry!”

Saint Laurent Women's Rive Gauche Canvas Tote

Perfect for the fashion lover on vacation, this canvas is a timeless investment, and you know it.

Dimensions: Length: 19 inches; height: 14.25 inches; depth: 6.25 inches

Colors: Ivory

Material: Cotton, jute, polyester, leather, brass

Marni x Carhartt Floral Print Tote Bag

Two of our favorite brands had a baby!

Dimensions: Length: 15.35 inches; height: 18.11 inches; depth: 6.69 inches

Color: Forest Green/Stone White, Black/Sun

Material: Cotton

Paravel Weekender

Get out of town in style with this leather-trimmed weekender. It’s sized to hold all of your essentials for a short trip, customizable with hand-painting or embroidery, and spill-proof, so you can worry a little less during transit.

Dimensions: Length: 15 inches; height: 15 inches; depth 8 inches

Material: EcoCraft canvas, recycled vegan leather

Customer review: “This is the BEST weekender I have ever owned. It will hold clothes for more than a mere weekend (including an extra pair of shoes!) and still fit beneath the seat on an airline....The handle is sturdy and attached well....This is a beautiful bag and worth every penny.”

Baggallini Carryall Expandable Packable Tote

If you often come home from an excursion with more than you brought, look no further. Small and light enough to pack in another piece of luggage, throw this functional, 13-ounce bag in your suitcase for those “need-more-space” emergencies.

Dimensions: Length: 22 inches; height: 12.5-18.5 inches; depth: 9.5 inches

Colors: Midnight Blossom, Black, French Navy, Sterling Shimmer

Customer review: “Just bought this bag for a trip to Toronto. Very roomy and the top zip and side bag made everything I needed on the plane very accessible. I would recommend this bag to anyone who asked about it.”

Madewell The Essential Overnight Bag in Leather

Madewell never ceases to amaze with its quality. The space and divided compartments within this vegetable-tanned leather tote are ideal for your next overnight adventure. Or, tuck the removable adjustable strap in, and it doubles as a gym bag.

Dimensions: Length: 13.375 inches; height: 18 inches; depth: 22.75 3/4 inches

Colors: English Saddle, True Black

Material: Leather

Customer review: “I’ve been living Monday through Friday switching off nights between my boyfriend's house and my house. I was getting sick of schlepping two or three totes of stuff between houses and leaving them in my car while working instead of schlepping them up to the office. This bag has made the entire process easier—it is absolutely gorgeous leather that I feel comfortable bringing into work, and it holds my suit, heels, toiletries, laptop, wallet, and phone with room to spare.”

Modern Picnic The Tote

From the picnic to the plane, this spacious tote bag is great for holding all your daily essentials. (You know how we love our leather tote bags .) Thanks to the removable insulated pouch, your laptop and lunch can peacefully co-exist while you’re bopping around town.

Dimensions: Length: 13 inches; height: 16 inches; depth: 10 inches

Colors: Black, Black Croc, Cream, Cream Croc

Material: Vegan leather

Customer review: “The Tote surpasses all other work bags I've owned with its exceptional functionality and capacity.”

Marc Jacobs The Medium Mesh Tote Bag

Ideal for practically anything—from the beach to in-office days—this mesh bag just signals that you’re a cool girl.

Dimensions: Length: 13 inches; height: 10.5 inches; 6 inches

Colors: Blackout, Candy Pink

Material: Mesh, nylon, neoprene, leather

Customer review: “OBSESSED! It’s an awesome, eye-catching, easy to wear and ‘sparks joy’ kind of bag.”

Naghedi St. Barths Large Woven Tote

This luxury hand-woven option will fit just about anything. It’s the chicest thing TSA will see, and you need it stat.

Dimensions: Lenght: 23 inches; height: 12 inches; depth: 8.5 inches

Colors: 7 options

Material: Terylene

Customer review: “Nice and sturdy, big tote, and bag itself is lightweight.”

Calpak Luka Duffel

Available in 20 colors, the lightweight Luka Duffel is the perfect size for all sorts of trips. It’s water-resistant, offers a separate shoe compartment, and boasts endless amounts of pockets for all your organizing needs. And if you can’t get enough, add the matching toiletry bag to your collection.

Dimensions: Length: 12 inches; height: 16 inches; depth: 7 inches

Colors: 20 options

Material: Polyester

Customer review: “My favorite part is fitting my 13.6-inch MacBook Air in the front pocket! I also fit sneakers in the shoe compartment with a full center with clothes and gifts from Christmas travel. The luggage strap is perfect for the airport. Love it!”

M. Gemi The Laura Convertible Backpack

If you’re anything like me, you love having options. Give your arms a rest with this two-in-one convertible backpack.

Dimensions: Length: 40 cm; height: 36 cm; depth: 10 cm

Colors: Warm Gray, Tan, Navy, Black

Material: Italian leather

Customer review: “It is my favorite casual weekend bag that enables me to carry a laptop if needed to get some work done downtown. I live in a city and it’s great for city living and travel.”

Baggu Travel Cloud Bag

There’s so much to love about Baggu, including this perfect travel bag that is light and affordable.

Dimensions: Length: 17 inches; height: 25 inches; depth: 9.75 inches

Colors: Nasturium, Extra Pink, Bay Laurel, Black

Material: Recycled nylon

Meet the Expert

• Maud Barrionuevo is head of buying and marketplace for 24S, an LVMH e-commerce platform that carries collaborations with labels like Coperni, Max Mara, and Dion Lee. As a buyer, Barrionuevo is an expert in consumer trends and customer satisfaction.

Why Trust ELLE

Every product featured on ELLE.com is independently researched, tested, or editor-approved. We only recommend products that we stand behind, and the merchandise featured on our site is always driven by editorial and product testing standards, not by affiliate deals or advertising relationships. Any content created in partnership with advertisers is marked as such.

Heads Up: Your Next Favorite Swimsuit Is on Amazon

8 Clothing Rental Services to Try Now

Love It or Hate It, Jelly Sandals Are Back

Yes, You Can Actually Wear Boots in the Summer

16 Ways to Master Coastal Grandmother Dressing

Here Are Our Beauty Editors’ Current Favorite Skin

The Launch: Fashion News to Know This June

Shop ELLE Editors’ Favorite Amazon Sandals

Need a New Carry-On? Try One from Amazon

Tons of DeMellier Handbags Are on Sale Right Now

These Celebrity-Approved Shoes Are Finally on Sale

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

12 Travel Totes That Do the Most

Jamie Ditaranto

Jamie Ditaranto is a traveler in a love triangle with writing and photography. Follow the drama on Twitter @jamieditaranto and Instagram @jamieditaranto .

Ditaranto joined SmarterTravel in 2015. She loves ecotourism, cities with history, and discovering local hangouts. Though she likes all the continents equally, she holds a special place in her heart for rainy little islands.

Her work has also appeared online at USA Today, Huffington Post, Business Insider, and other publications. You can check out her photography on her website .

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "My instant camera comes in handy for giving instant gifts to new friends."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "Befriending penguins in Antarctica."

Travel Motto : "You have to get the hard places out of the way first."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "On short flights, the window. For long flights, the aisle."

Email Jamie at [email protected] .

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

A good tote bag is one of the most versatile tools in a traveler’s packing arsenal. Travel totes can hold all your stuff, fit pretty much anywhere, and come in all shapes and sizes to suit your style. Plus, if you need to push the envelope on how big your personal item can be, there’s no better bag to rock than a travel tote bag. Here are some of my favorite tote bags for travel that will totally come in handy on your next trip.

Away Everywhere Bag

The Everywhere Bag from Away is the perfect carry-all for your flight, with a modern silhouette and thoughtful features that keep what you need at hand. This bag is designed to slide over the handle of any suitcase (or slide onto your shoulder) and is made with pebbled leather or durable nylon that can stand up to anything—and look good doing it.

MZ Wallace Metro Quatro Tote

Puffy bags like the Metro Quatro Tote are not just for show; they blend function and fashion by offering your items a little extra protection. This travel tote is the best choice for the traveler who isn’t checking a bag and needs to stuff a few more pieces of clothing in their personal item.  

How to Choose the Perfect Suitcase

Osprey Arcane Tote Pack

Osprey’s Arcane Tote delivers dual functionality, with both comfortable tote straps and padded, comfortable tuck-away backpack straps for two ways to carry. The top-zip main compartment can be made even more secure with a roll-and-fold closure, and interior organizational pockets (including a padded laptop sleeve, document sleeve, and key-stash pocket) keeps belongings in place. Made from recycled bottles, the tote comes in a range of great colors.

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Weekender Bag

If you’re packing as much as possible into your personal item, the Catalina Deluxe Weekender Bag from Lo & Sons will have your back on everything from weekend trips to week-long vacations. Lightweight and super functional, it has a place for your laptop, shoes, and more with plenty of color options to choose from.

Eddie Bauer Bygone Recycled Backpack Tote

For another choice when shopping for a convertible travel tote bag, the Eddie Bauer Bygone Recycled Backpack Tote has function (organizational pockets and storable shoulder straps to convert from a tote to a backpack) and style (sleek design and leather handle grips) all in one. It is also made from super durable recycled nylon and features a zippered exterior pocket.

12 Best Places to Buy Luggage for Every Kind of Traveler

Longchamp Le Pliage Tote

Nylon is an incredibly useful material for travel bags, but unless it’s designed thoughtfully, it doesn’t always look great. Longchamp’s Le Pliage Tote is a great example of how to do nylon right. It’s water-resistant and folds flat without wrinkling, so you can rock the signature style of a Longchamp.

CALPAK Luka Expandable Laptop Tote

Add a pop of color to your travel attire with the Luka Laptop Tote , available in eighteen colors. The dedicated sleeve and soft exterior gives your laptop extra protection, while the organizational pockets—including a discreet exterior zipper pocket for valuables—will keep the rest of your gear organized. The bottom expands up to four inches to adapt to the needs of any trip.

Jemma Birdie 43 Tote

  A modern travel tote for the fashionista, the Birdie 43 Tote from Jemma is a beautiful vegan handbag that fits your 13″ laptop, shower essentials, change of clothes, plus anything from boxing gloves to your dance shoes—and maybe even both.  The bottom shoe compartment (holds two pairs of shoes) has a mesh strip for ventilation to ensure your clothes and smelly shoes will be able to air out properly. Also included are a cosmetics case and laundry bag, and there’s a zipper pocket on the back that becomes a trolley sleeve.

Tumi Sidney Business Tote

Traveling on business? You’ll need a business travel tote you can take straight from the plane into your big meeting. The Sidney Business Tote makes a strong impression with a clean and straight design. Plus, the exterior sleeve lets you easily attach it to the handle of your wheeled luggage.  

How to Travel With Just a Carry-On

Vera Bradley Vera Tote

Express your personality with the spacious Vera Tote . Available in multiple colors and patterns, this large tote bag is great for travelers who tend to overpack their personal item. Plus, its padded exterior will offer your belongings a little extra protection from bumps and drops.

The Garnet Convertible Tote Bag

For an elegant and expensive-feeling tote, the Garnet Bag is a great option. While technically a shoulder bag, you will not be left wanting for space with its flat-bottom design and internal organizer pockets. The bag also features a magnetic snap closure, giving you the peace of mind that all your valuables are staying put while still allowing easy access.  

S Zone Vintage Leather Tote

If you’re just looking for a straightforward tote bag, the Vintage Leather Tote from S-Zone is a simple and functional option. It has two compartments big enough to hold your devices and other items, is made of sturdy leather, and has lots of pockets for keeping organized.

Why You Should Always Bring a Large Ziploc Bag on a Flight

Dagne Dover Signature Tote

An elegant travel tote available in four basic and two seasonal colors, the Dagne Dover Signature Tote is a functional work bag that can hold a 13-inch laptop and all of your day-to-day accessories at the same time. It’s designed for long days, which means it will be the perfect companion for train ride or as a personal item on a plane.

Jamie Ditaranto is a writer and photographer always looking for her next adventure. Follow her on Instagram @jamieditaranto .

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

You Might Also Like:

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

10-Night Mediterranean Cruise From Barcelona to...

Norwegian Cruise Line

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Shop and Save with Country Inns...

Patricia Magaña

Trending on SmarterTravel

Is a tote bag good for Travelling? 🛍️ 15 Best Lightweight Travel Tote Bags Perfect For Getaway

Is a tote bag good for Travelling? Yes, tote bags are excellent for traveling due to their versatility and convenience.

A lightweight travel tote bags are essential to someone who travels frequently. It’s the workhorse of the travel bag collection, and it’s the ideal carry-all for all of your essentials. You can easily carry a lot of items in one single bag ( wallet , passport, phone, headphones , tablet, book, scarf , jacket , toiletry bag, water bottle , snacks — don’t forget the snacks! and even a travel pillow ). 

One of the most useful items in a traveler’s arsenal is a decent tote bag. Travel totes can carry a lot of things, fit almost anywhere, and come in a variety of shapes and sizes to match your personal style.

Plus, if you need to push the boundaries of how large your personal item can be, a travel tote bag is the way to go. Here are some of my favorite travel totes that will come in handy on your next trip.

🤔 What is a tote Bag?

🧐 things to consider before buying the best lightweight travel tote bags [buying guide], 1. lightweight underseat carry-on travel tote bag by travelpro, 2. all-purpose utility, boat and beach tote bag by yeti , 3. leather designer handbags tote purses shoulder bucket bags by bostanten, 4. arcane tote backpack by osprey, 5. women canvas weekender bag by s-zone, 6. water resistant, expandable laptop bag by amber & ash everyday, 7. longchamp le pliage large tote, 8. getaway weekender bag by ban. do, 9. nylon travel tote cross-body carry-on bag with shoulder strap by lily & drew, 10. rains city waterproof tote, 11. voyageur sheryl business laptop tote by tumi .

• 12. Women's Denim Vera Tote Bag By Vera Bradley

13. Dilan Medium Tote By Calvin Klein

14. vintage genuine leather tote bag by s-zone , 15. computer tote bag  by nubily, ✅ benefits of lightweight tote bags, q. what is the best size for a tote bag, q. why are tote bags so popular, q. can tote bags be carry-on luggage, q. what bag should i use when travelling, q. how much weight should a tote bag hold, q. can lightweight tote bags withstand heavy items, 😇 conclusion, 🗨️ which lightweight travel tote bag is your favorite let us know in the comments..

A tote bag is a very handy accessory. It’s a simple item with a tonne of utility. A tote bag is most simply described as a medium-sized bag with two parallel handles. The top of tote bags is often open, and they are larger than most other handbags.

Tote bags come in a variety of colors and patterns and can be made from a variety of different fabrics. They are frequently made of woven fabrics like jute or lightweight materials like cotton and canvas. However, stronger materials like leather can also be used to make tote bags.

If you are in a hurry we have found a waterproof canvas tote bag for you.

• Large capacity: The 14″ x 5.1″ x 13″ spacious…
• Stylish design: Well-pressed outlook with…
• Waterproof: We applied with water repellent oxford…
• Optional color for different needs: business…

Last update on 2024-06-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

There are a few things to remember before adding a tote bag to your cart while looking for the ideal monogram tote.

Keep reading to learn about the top characteristics that will help you find the right tote for you, and you’ll never be on the search again.

• Use : First and foremost! Think of how you’ll use your tote bag. What will you do with your tote, where will you take it, and when will you use it? Make a list of all the different ways you can use your bag: as an exercise bag, an overnight tote, or a beach bag in the summer. Consider certain possibilities when searching for the right tote for whatever you want to use it for.
• Size : The size of the tote bag you would need is the next factor to consider. Think about the uses you’ve in mind for your bag: will a medium-sized bag work, or will you need anything larger to carry everything? How many things will you need to bring in the bag when you think about how you’ll use it? If you’re using it as a beach bag, for example, make a list of everything you’ll be carrying down to the beach to figure out what size is right for you!
• Closure : The bag’s closure is next on the list of things to think about. Is the bag you’re thinking of an open-top, zippered top, or something else? Consider the closure that would be best for you after reviewing your bag’s requirements. Do you want to use your tote as an exe r cise bag or for school? If you want to keep your things secure, make sure the tote has a zippered top.
• Material : You must remember the bag’s quality as a priority. Check to see if the material is easy to clean and suitable for the requirement. Are you looking for a beach bag? Check to see if it can handle the sand and water. Are you looking for a durable grocery bag? Consider the material’s sturdiness and if it will be able to handle the weight you’ll be carrying.
• Price : Last but not least price of the tote bag should justify the quality they are offering. Before purchasing it check-in online and offline as well. You will get a good discount if will purchase it online but if you don’t have enough time so can purchase it from the nearest market as well.

• The Trend Era of Puffer Bag is Approaching: “A…
• Compact Size: Size: 19.3” x 6.3’x 13.8”,…
• Ultra Lightweight Material : Weighs only 0.99…
• Multi-pocket: The women tote bag feasures many…

• Please pay specially attention to the size of the…
• BUG Laptop Tote Work Bag for Women? — Grab…
• Lightweight but Roomie? — Use this as an all in…
• Premium Quality & 100% Satisfaction Guarantee? –…

• Splash Proof Polyester material. High…
• Multi-purpose, Large handbags can store travel…
• With a variety of different colors and patterns,…
• Features fantastic smooth hand feeling. Wrinkle…

Last update on 2024-06-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

📝 List of 15 Best Lightweight Travel Totes That Are Ideal For Various Activities

Are you on the lookout for a new handbag? Then you have a number of choices. A sling bag, a purse, a messenger bag, a wristlet, or even a satchel are all options.

But, among all of the options, there’s one that we can’t overlook: the tote bag.

With a modern silhouette and thoughtful features that hold what you need close at hand, the Travelpro Bag is the ideal carry-all for your Carry-On. 

This bag is built to fit over the handle of any suitcase (or onto your shoulder) and is made of water-resistant nylon that can withstand any situation while looking stylish. It is one of the large tote bags with a zipper.

The Camino Carryall Tote Bag from YETI will take you from the beach to the boat to the airport while keeping your belongings dry and secure.

Since it can be washed clean (and dirt or sand won’t stick), this 100% waterproof tote is ideal for travel or adventure days.

It’s the right size for a flight personal item, but it’s big enough to hold anything you need (and more).

The EVA-shaped bottom of this tote bag is our favorite feature because it holds the Camino upright even when empty (so crucial for packing). It is the best travel tote for airplanes.

Also Read : Best Amazon Fanny Packs For Travel

High-quality soft gold hardware and top-layer cowhide leather. For added stability, a metal magnetic buckle is included. The removable pouch is lined with a strong cloth. It enhances the handbag and emphasizes feminine beauty.

Two shoulder belts, one of which is leather and the other of which is woven with a colour pattern; you can change the strap style according to your preferences!

The long strap can be used as a single shoulder strap, and the two straps are approximately 10.23 inches long. Also, it is one of the best designer tote bags for travel .

Also Read : Best Crossbody Bags For Travel

The Arcane Tote from Osprey has two carrying options: padded, comfortable tote straps and padded, comfortable tuck-away backpack straps.

The internal organizational pockets (including a padded laptop sleeve, document sleeve, and key-stash pocket) hold belongings in place, and the top-zip main compartment can be made even safer with a roll-and-fold closure.

The carry-on Duffel Tote Weekender Bag from S-ZONE will have your back on everything from weekend trips to week-long vacations if you’re packing as much as possible into your personal piece.

It’s lightweight and super versatile, with lots of colour choices to choose from. It has a place for your laptop, shoes, and more.

Also Read : Best Travel Scarves For Men And Women

With a detachable crossbody strap and thoughtful organizing features to secure your assets, this modern, functional style can be used as a shoulder bag or an over-the- shoulder tote . 

To keep your belongings dry, the top folds over and is sealed with a magnetic clasp. It can also be extended to maximize carrying capacity.

For added protection and convenience while travelling, the bottom of the large slip pocket on the back can be unzipped to enable the tote to fit comfortably over luggage handles.

Nylon is a fantastic material for  travel bags , but it doesn’t always look great unless it’s made well. The  Le Pliage Tote  from Longchamp is a brilliant example of how to do nylon correctly.

It is waterproof and folds flat without wrinkling, allowing you to flaunt the Longchamp signature look.

Also Read : Best Lightweight Warm Jackets For Travel (For Women And Men)

If you’re going away for the weekend or longer, this  weekend bag  will make your trip as simple as possible.

It has a detachable mesh pouch inside (that you can fold the entire bag into for quick storage) and a sleeve on the back for a  luggage  handle, making it the perfect carry-on.

Medium capacity tote bag for women , travel, family, beach, gym, or any other occasion. Often serves as a  weekender bag , a home health nursing bag, a teacher bag, a pool swim bag, a gym bag, and so on. Use the integrated handles or the included reversible shoulder strap to carry it.

There are five mesh interior pockets to help you stay organized. Your wallet, cash, keys, or cards are secure in one interior zippered pocket. It is a tote bag with pockets and zippers that will help you in many ways.

Towels,  jackets , sweaters , nurses’ supplies, fitness gear, and other items should be packed in the main compartment. Universal design can be applied to almost any situation.

Also Read : Awesome Face Masks For Travel

The Waterproof Tote from Rains is a classic tote bag with a classic look. This trendy tote will keep you organized on the go and in any weather with several compartments, including a padded pocket for your phone.

Also Read : Best Leggings For Travel

Are you traveling? You’ll need a business travel tote  that you can bring from the plane to your important meeting .

Tumi’s nylon business tote is a waterproof and stain-resistant bag with a clean and straight design that makes a good impression.

Additionally, the external sleeve makes it easy to clip to the handle of your  wheeled luggage . These tote bags with compartments are for multiple uses.

12. Women’s Denim Vera Tote Bag By Vera Bradley

With the spacious Iconic Vera Tote , you can show off your personality. This big tote bag , which comes in a variety of colours and designs, is ideal for travellers who tend to overpack their personal items. Additionally, the padded surface can provide additional protection from bumps and drops.

The Dilan medium tote is a great choice for an elegant and expensive-feeling tote. It has a simplistic design, but it has built-in features with five pockets and plenty of space for miscellaneous items.

The bag also has a magnetic snap closure, which ensures that all of your valuables are kept safe while also allowing for easy access.

The Vintage leather tote from S-Zone is a simple and practical choice if you’re just looking for a simple tote bag.

It has two compartments large enough to carry your devices and other objects, is made of durable leather, and has plenty of pockets to help you stay organized.

Also Read : Best Amazon Fanny Packs  For Travel That Is Perfect To Carry Items For Easy Access

Made of premium water-repellent, scratch-resistant PU leather with a polyester cover. The bag is protected from damage by the metal feet foundation.

The straight lines and solid colours make this big business tote bag a classic item. NUBILY laptop bag is perfectly poised and beautiful style everywhere you go.

This fashionable and lightweight leather tote was designed with multi-functionality in mind.

It can be used as a laptop computer bag, school shoulder bag, business work bag, or Computer shoulder bag, and is ideal for work, business trips, meetings, college school, shopping, and everyday use.

Below are some basic benefits for tote bags.

• Convenience : Lightweight tote bags offer the convenience of portability without sacrificing functionality. Whether you’re exploring a new city or embarking on a weekend getaway, these bags provide effortless mobility.
• Durability : Despite their featherweight construction, the best lightweight tote bags boast exceptional durability. Crafted from high-quality materials, they withstand the rigors of travel while maintaining their sleek appearance.
• Versatility : From serving as carry-on luggage to doubling as a beach bag, lightweight tote bags excel in versatility. Their adaptable design allows them to seamlessly transition between various settings, making them an indispensable travel essential.

🙋🏻‍♀️ FAQs About Best Lightweight Travel Tote Bags

There are a lot of questions that come to mind while buying tote bags for travel some of the commonly asked questions are answered below.

A. The best size for a tote bag depends on individual preferences and needs, but a mid-sized tote with ample storage is often ideal.

A. Tote bags are popular due to their versatility, eco-friendliness, and stylish designs, making them a favorite choice for various occasions.

A. Many tote bags are suitable for carry-on luggage, but it’s essential to check airline restrictions.

A. When traveling, opt for a lightweight tote bag with ample storage and organizational features.

A. The weight a tote bag can hold varies, but it’s generally recommended to avoid overloading it for comfort and durability.

A. While lightweight tote bags are designed to be lightweight, they are still capable of carrying moderately heavy items such as clothing, electronics, and travel essentials. However, it’s essential to avoid overloading the bag to prevent strain on the handles and seams.

To sum it up, choosing the best lightweight travel tote bag is all about blending practicality, style, and durability. By thinking about things like material, size, organization, and the reputation of the brand, you can discover the ideal companion for your adventures. Whether you’re off exploring new places or just tackling your daily to-dos, a lightweight tote bag brings unbeatable convenience and usefulness. So, why not elevate your travel game with a tote bag that ticks all the boxes—quality, versatility, and effortless style?

Also, don’t forget to book your personalized holiday package with  Fiery Trippers . Let us make your vacation a romantic as well as a dreamy getaway.

How do I know if the luggage is lightweight? 🧳 11 Best Lightweight Luggage For Travel: Ultimate Guide

Can I find stylish yet comfortable airplane pants? 👖 11 Best Airplane Pants for Travel: Comfort and Style for Your Journey

Can I carry a water bottle on an airplane? 11 best water bottles for travel to bring with you on your next vacation

Rahul Siddharth

He is a dedicated travel writer with a wealth of 10 Years + experience that enriches his narratives. He holds a degree in Hospitality and Hotel Administration from IHM Dehradun, which he couples with hands-on expertise in the field. Drawing from his diverse experiences, Rahul's writings offer readers a captivating glimpse into the world of travel. Embark on a journey of exploration and inspiration with Rahul as your guide. Read More

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The Best Tote Bags of 2024

Ah, the tote bag — the multitasker that can do it all. Finding the best tote bag to transport books and laptops one day and schlep groceries and climbing gear the next can be arduous. To help you sort through the proverbial tote haystack, we tested some of the top tote bags of 2024. 

Before selecting a tote, you should consider several factors, such as size, composition, durability, and adjustability, to name a few. Think about how you plan to use the tote. Do you plan to use it for your carry-on when traveling? Or for picking up a few items from the farmers market? Maybe you need a tote to transition from the office commute to the beach or a major league game.

The versatility of any tote goes up a notch, especially when you don’t have to worry about the weather. Will your tote hold up to stains and downpours? 

Through her time in the field using these tote bags, our lead tester, Taneika Duhaney, answers these questions and more. As a mother to human and dog children, she’s no stranger to adventures that require a lot of stuff. And she’s very familiar with the search for the perfect bag to carry it all. Taneika took these tote bags to Europe, Africa, and several states along the eastern seaboard for business, outdoor recreation, and sporting events. 

We tested everything from accessibility, organization, durability, and usability. Scroll through our list to find the perfect tote bag to protect your belongings while looking good, whether on your way to the office, a weekend getaway, or a picnic. 

To learn more about each tote’s unique features, check out our buyer’s guide , comparison chart , and FAQ .

• Best Overall Tote Bag: North Face Base Camp Voyager Tote
• Best Budget Tote Bag: REI Co-op Packaway 45 Tote
• Best Tote Bag for Commuting: Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack
• Best Outdoor Tote Bag: YETI Camino Carryall 35 Tote

North Face Base Camp Voyager Tote

• Weight 1 lb., 1.6 oz.
• Volume 27 L
• Outside dimensions 15″ x 14.3″ x 5.9″
• Materials Recycled polyester, recycled ballistic nylon

• Padded interior laptop compartment with Velcro strap ensures security
• Easy access zippered exterior pockets with internal padding to protect valuables
• Large mesh interior pocket to hold smaller items while still being visible
• Exterior fabric and zippers are durable and water-resistant
• Two exterior bottle holders with elasticized borders to secure contents
• Zippers not water-resistant
• Limited color scape

If you’re looking for a tote bag that can do a little bit of everything, consider the Base Camp Voyager Tote ($89) from The North Face.

The simple yet effective construction of recycled polyester and ballistic nylon makes this tote bag a great choice for working professionals, students, and weekend travelers.

The generous main compartment houses a padded laptop enclosure outfitted with a Velcro strap to securely keep a laptop, book, or other valuables in place.

After several months of testing, we found that this tote bag was best suited for carrying school or office supplies such as texts, smaller binders, and laptop computers that measure 16 inches or smaller. Though a larger laptop may fit in the compartment, the non-elasticized nylon strap may not extend to secure the computer in place.

Though versatile, this everyday workhorse is only available in a handful of colors. Despite the color limitations, every bag has two external zippered pockets with a padded interior to prevent scratching of cell phone screens or other valuables. The large zippered internal mesh pocket lets you see your supplies. Two waterproof side pockets with a horizontal mesh strip were ideal for water bottles and a compact umbrella.

When traveling, the tote bag’s luggage sleeve attaches seamlessly to every suitcase handle. The tote bag easily fits in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. The main compartment is roomy enough for a handful of groceries on your way home.

The Base Camp Voyager Tote is ideal for students, commuters, and in casual business settings. This tote makes organizing and retrieving essentials a breeze.

REI Co-op Pack-Away 45 Tote

• Weight 1 lb., 12.8 oz.
• Volume 43.2 L
• Outside dimensions 15.75" x 12" x 7.5"
• Materials 300-denier recycled polyester, 1,680-denier recycled nylon

• Budget-friendly
• Large main compartment makes it easy to load
• Hand, over-the-shoulder, and end grab loops make it easy to carry
• Top compression strap secures bulky or heavy items
• Two side pockets fit a standard water bottle
• Moisture and stain-repellent exterior
• Lacks interior pockets for organization
• Thin, sparsely padded bottom

The REI C o-op Pack-Away 45 Tote ($80) is a game changer. Whether you’re packing for a cross-country trek, weekend getaway, or camping trip, it has enough room for everything, plus the kitchen sink.

The main compartment, which stays open easily, is void of pockets. As such, the 45L rating reads like a conservative estimate. The material at the top of the bag, including the drawstring closure, also allows for a few extra liters of storage. This extension allowed us to fit four beach towels, a change of clothes for two adults and one teen, bathing suits, full-size body wash, lotions, and other essentials.

When the bag was not used for transporting essentials, it was the perfect storage for a compact sleeping bag, hammock, camping cookware, and two-person tent. Storing all our camping supplies in the bag made going camping relatively painless, as almost everything we needed was already in one place.

Though the bag is equipped with shoulder straps, we opted to use the end grab loops because of its weight and size. The side straps allow for a two-person carry without placing undue stress on any portion of the bag. After each camping trip, we cleaned and repacked our gear in the Pack-Away tote. Once the compression strap is reattached, everything is neatly secured. Plus, it keeps all gear ready for the next camping trip.

The durable water repellent makes cleaning the inside and outside of the tote a breeze. The tote has been used to carry wet gear after muddy weekend adventures. Once it was washed and dried, no smell remained.

Despite the size, the bag is designed to fit in the footwell of most vehicles. Even after packing the bag to its maximum capacity, we could fit it in the footwell of a minivan and sedan. When not in use, this versatile tote folds flat for storage.

The REI Co-op Pack-Away 45 Tote is best for storing and carrying gear and clothes. It also works well as a catch-all bag that neatly stores things away when needed.

Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack

• Weight 13 oz.
• Outside dimensions 15.5″ x 10.25″ x 8″
• Materials 70-denier recycled ripstop nylon

• Packs into its own pocket
• Padded backpack straps
• Double stretch-mesh water-bottle
• Internal zip pocket with a key lanyard
• Zipper and cinch main compartment closure
• Roomy main compartment
• Unpadded hand straps
• Water bottle holder lacks a securing mechanism
• No structure

Have you ever considered a tote bag that fits in the palm of your hand? We know what you’re probably thinking but stay with us because the Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack ($99) is a sight to behold. 

When we first opened the package, we were skeptical that we received the correct product and couldn’t imagine why this tote was included in this category. After we unfolded it from its own pocket, we quickly understood.   

First — the size. As the name states, the Ultralight Black Hole Tote weighs virtually nothing and easily fits into the palm of your hand when folded. Hidden in plain sight is the litany of features you can’t see: hand and backpack straps, dual mesh 1L water bottle holders, and an easily accessible but protected key lanyard, to name a few. 

Second — the weight. Tipping the scales at only 13 ounces, courtesy of the 70-denier recycled ripstop nylon, this bag performs as the main star or a complementary piece, depending on your needs. 

We repeatedly reached for it to carry items we planned to pick up while out multi-tasking. This tote performed superbly like the unexpected superhero that debuts only when needed. Whether we were picking up a few items at the farmers market or packing post-workout clothing, this small but mighty tote crushed it. 

The tote may appear misshapen since it has no structure, resulting in an unevenly distributed load. The padded straps were comfortable when carrying lighter loads over longer distances; however, the straps, which sometimes get caught in the main compartment zipper, can feel slippery and require frequent adjustments.

Optimizing weight with the 70-denier fabric results in minimal padding, making this tote feel like our least durable option. Though the large compartment allows for easy packing and travel, this may not hold up to the rigors of frequent travel, especially if filled to capacity on a daily basis. When caught in light rain, the bag held up exceptionally well. 

The Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack , available in a range of eye-catching colors, is great for quick hikes and commuters who need to transport the essentials — a 13-inch or smaller laptop, water bottle, keys, glasses, and maybe a small charging cord.

YETI Camino Carryall 35 Tote

• Weight 3 lbs., 8 oz.
• Volume 35 L
• Outside dimensions 18.1″ x 14.9″ x 9.9″
• Materials Nylon

• Rigid sides keep it upright
• Thick, molded bottom stands up to abrasion
• Extra durable handles, can hold up to 50 lbs.
• Secret rambler sleeves house half-gallon jug
• No zipper or magnet closure

If you’re looking for an ultra-sturdy, waterproof, puncture- and abrasion-resistant tote bag to haul all your gear and supplies for your next adventure, the YETI Camino Carryall 35 Tote ($150) should be at the top of your list.

Constructed from YETI’s proprietary Thickskin and molded EVA materials, the Camino Carryall tote is built for anything — literally anything. Weighing only 3 pounds, this heavy-duty tote can carry up to 1,500 pounds of static weight.

Though we couldn’t verify the weight limit during testing, we tested the tote while carrying logs, firewood, camping gear, propane tanks, and wet gear after a day on the lake. Nothing left a mark on the bag despite putting it through the wringer. No matter the task, the bag looked as good as new after a quick rinse and towel dry. 

Though rigid, the tote is exceptionally flexible, making it easy to fit into closets, lockers, and behind car seats. The open-top style makes it easy to pack and access the main compartment.

The interior zip pockets, perfectly sized for cell phones, wallets, keys, and snacks, are complemented by rugged, easy-to-hold tabs. Despite the bag being waterproof, the zipper is not, so remember to remove any moisture-sensitive items before submerging or rinsing the bag.

Whether packing for a picnic or tailgating, the secret rambler sleeves with integrated tabs, perfect for half-gallon-size jugs or bottles of wine, relax against the sides of the tote when not in use. Reinforced, vertical daisy chains allow for four connections on each sleeve.

The tote does not have a zipper for the main compartment, but it does have a small but rugged hook and closure tab to keep year gear inside. When it’s time to take your tote and go, reach for the exceptionally sturdy yet slightly cushioned shoulder straps or the reinforced grab handles if toting a bit more weight.

Though higher priced than all other totes in this category, the YETI Camino Carryall 35 Tote’s versatility and durability make it a worthy investment. It’s the perfect tote for your next beach trip, playdate, or camping excursion.

Cotopaxi Viaje 35L Weekender Tote Bag

• Outside dimensions 21″ x 15″ x 12″
• Materials Recycled polyester

• Separate laundry compartment on the bottom
• Exterior straps for a yoga mat or longboard
• Zippered exterior accessory pockets
• Long and short carrying handles
• Luggage sleeve
• Spacious main compartment

One of Ecuador’s most active volcanoes inspired the llama logoed Cotopaxi. At first glance, a llama may seem like a quiet, awkward animal; however, like still waters that run deep, the adventurous, versatile, and uniquely inspiring mascot adorns the ready-to-go Cotopaxi Viaje 35L Weekender Tote Bag ($130). The Viaje is quite literally prepared to take you on almost any journey every day — and anywhere that you might need a tote bag. 

The first thing we noticed about this tote was the clean lines, eye-catching but muted colorscape, and no shortage of organization. We tested this tote on local grocery runs and international travel. It shined no matter where it was toted. 

This tote weighs only 1 pound, 12.8 ounces, and boasts several features normally found in larger travel totes, such as multiple external zippered pockets, yoga mat straps, side carry handles, a shoulder strap, and a large bottom storage. 

At 37 L, the weekender’s large main compartment is spacious enough for a weekend or week-long trip. We packed the tote for a four-day international trip. The large base meant larger items could be folded neatly with packing cubes placed on top with no fuss. When it was time to close the bag, compartment handles made closing the bag a cinch. Large zippered external pockets are ideal for keeping essentials like passports, keys, wallets, and snacks within reach without opening the main compartment. 

The integrated luggage sleeve provided a secure fit on different roller luggage without resistance. Removing the tote from carrying handles to go through security was also a breeze. The bag fits neatly in the overhead compartments of several airlines without hassle. When overhead compartments were full, the tote easily fit under airline seats. 

When we weren’t traveling, the tote doubled as a day bag for trips to the beach and bazaar. The adjustable side straps neatly supported a small rug, allowing us to remain hands-free. For the return trip, a separate storage compartment on the bottom was ideal for extra shoes or dirty clothes. 

Take the Cotopaxi Viaje 35L Weekender Tote Bag tote on your next weekend getaway or grocery run. It can do it all.

Bagail Clear Bags Tote

• Weight 8 oz.
• Volume 13.5 L
• Outside dimensions 12″ x 12″ x 6″
• Materials Vinyl, nylon

• Lightweight
• Double zippered
• Adjustable shoulder strap
• Stadium-friendly
• Zipper is not water-resistant
• Strap is bare-bones without padding

While most of the totes on this list can serve double duty, Bagail Clear Bags Tote ($9) elevates the stadium tote. Though simple, this tote is exactly what it says it is — a clear tote that most stadiums require for access.

This tote is large enough for your phone, wallet, snacks, water bottle, book, and scarf. We found it to be big enough to carry everything you need without feeling oversized or cumbersome.

This no-frills tote is low on features; however, it fits the maximum dimensions allowed at most stadiums, concerts, and music festivals. Larger and clearer than most see-through bags, getting through security will be the easiest part of your adventure. You can carry the tote using the shoulder straps or the adjustable crossbody nylon strap. With two D-rings on the main bag, you can remove the crossbody strap for a cleaner appearance.

Unlike most bags in this category, which offer a range of organizing features, Bagail’s tote prevents you from digging a black hole. With dual zippers, you can open the bag using either zipper tab. 

The cons of this tote lie in its overall appearance. It appears cheaper and feels flimsy. Though the zipper worked smoothly, the single stitch connecting the zipper made us question its durability with repeated openings. The zippers are not water resistant, and the rubber zipper tabs were a bit of a drawback. 

You may not be a fan of vinyl bags; however, if you need a clear bag for a stadium event at a wallet-friendly price point, the Bagail Clear Bags Tote is an option.

Tote Bag Comparison Chart

How We Tested Tote Bags

Are you tired of purchasing tote bags that don’t stand up to daily wear and tear? Look no further! We tested six different totes as carry-on and checked luggage while traveling cross-country and internationally. We also used them for grocery hauls, commuting, and outdoor adventures.

Our rigorous testing focused on the durability and precision of the stitching and seams, the functionality of closures, comfort and adjustability of handles, and suitability for different occasions and purposes. We stretched every pocket, zipped every zipper, packed every compartment, pulled every cord, and snapped every closure. We scuffed the fabrics, stained the handles, and knotted the drawstrings. In short, we put these totes through the wringer.

Over several months, we carefully recorded our observations and the strengths and weaknesses of each tote. We tested in various weather conditions, including rainy weather, cold bike trips, and dry and hot desert excursions. We took extensive notes of our observations, graphed performance, and compared results in every instance.

Our lead tester, Taneika Duhaney, has over 12 years of experience as a bike commuter, traveler, and gear reviewer. Her expertise will help you make the most informed decision before purchasing your next tote bag. Don’t waste any more time and money on inferior totes. Check out our comprehensive review and invest wisely in a tote bag that will endure all of life’s adventures.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Tote Bags

A tote bag isn’t just a bag. Like your favorite shoe or sweater, the perfect tote can make almost anything right. Sounds far-fetched? Well, not really. Think of the last time you rummaged through your bag, searching for your phone, keys, or wallet. At that very moment, you knew you needed a new bag.

Fear not; this guide can help you narrow down your choices so you can find the tote that keeps everything exactly where you need it, stays out of the way when you don’t, and reflects your current style.

Figuring out which kind of tote is perfect for you can be challenging because we do so many things and need our staple items to keep up. An excellent place to start is by asking yourself how you’ll use the tote. Do you need the tote to carry your laptop to the office one day and then pack gear to build sand castles at the beach the next?

Next, consider how it could enhance your daily routine. Do you need a spacious tote that can double as storage? Or, would you prefer a more organized approach with a laptop sleeve, key lanyard, and multiple pockets for your wallet, glasses, and phone? The choice is yours, and with the right tote, you can be confident in its practicality and style.

Now, it’s time to pick a size. Do you need a large bag to haul groceries, a medium tote for a few essentials, or something smaller that may be a single-purpose tote?

Then, it’s time to consider style. Are you drawn to the sleek structure of a tote, or does the freedom of an unstructured bag, better suit your style? What about color? Remember, the right tote is not just a bag but an extension of your style. If you’re looking for something bigger, to get you through longer adventures, check out our guide to the Best Duffel Bags .

How Will You Use It?

Why settle for just any bag when you could have the perfect tote? We understand how frustrating it can be to find the right fit, so we’ve taken the guesswork out of it for you. Our totes are grouped by use, size, and color, so you can easily find the one that best suits your needs. Don’t settle for less than perfect when carrying your belongings — read on to learn more about what to consider when searching for your ideal tote bag.

Travel Tote

A travel tote is the epitome of convenience for your weekend trips. These spacious tote bags accommodate all your essentials for a weekend trip or short getaway. Crafted from high-quality materials like nylon, polyester, or other durable fabrics, they are built to endure travel demands.

Travel totes, such as the Cotopaxi’s Viaje 35L , boast a design that’s as practical as it is efficient. This tote is a perfect travel companion with a large main compartment, multiple pockets for easy organization, and a zippered bottom compartment for storing shoes, dirty laundry, or extra clothes.    

For those who require more space, the Pack-Away 45 from REI Co-op is a perfect choice. Its robust polyester and nylon construction ensures that you can pack the tote to the brim or use packing cubes to organize your gear to your liking, all while being confident in its durability.

When your tote is full, the extended collar, which offers easier access than a zipper, secures your belongings with a drawstring closure and compression strap. Similar to the Cotopaxi Viaje, the REI Pack-Away provides a plethora of carrying options. You can choose between shoulder straps, a crossbody strap, or reinforced handles, allowing you to carry your tote in a way that perfectly suits your style and comfort.

The Viaje is the perfect carry-on. However, the Pack-Away may be too large to fit under the seat. Check with your airline to confirm the approved carry-on size. And, if you need something even more expansive, check out these other options in our Best Carry-on Luggage Guide.

C ommuter Tote

Commuter tote bags are crafted with the daily grind in mind. They’re often constructed from waterproof or water-resistant materials such as nylon or polyester. This feature ensures that your belongings stay dry and protected, even if you encounter unexpected rain showers during your journey.

One key benefit of commuter tote bags is their practicality. Many of these bags, such as The North Face Base Camp Voyage r , are outfitted with specialized compartments and pockets, ensuring your essentials are neatly arranged and easily accessible.

A notable feature is a padded laptop sleeve that secures your laptop or tablet while on the move — a significant advantage for students and professionals. Moreover, multiple pockets and compartments aid in keeping smaller items organized and within easy reach.

In addition to their functionality, commuter tote bags often prioritize comfort and convenience.

Like Patagonia’s Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack , many commuter totes are designed for comfort and convenience. They feature padded handles, backpack straps, or crossbody straps like the North Face Base Camp Voyager. This allows you to effortlessly carry your belongings, even during long commutes or busy days.

The compact size and streamlined silhouette of most commuter totes make them ideal for navigating crowded buses, trains, or city streets without feeling bulky or cumbersome.

Beach tote bags are essential companions for a fun day in the sun. Unlike their everyday counterparts, these bags meet the unique needs of beachgoers. They offer ample space and durable construction to accommodate everything you need for a relaxing day by the water.

Beach totes are typically larger than standard tote bags, providing plenty of room to pack towels, sunscreen, snacks, drinks, reading materials, and other essentials. This spacious design ensures that you can comfortably carry everything you need for a day of leisure without feeling weighed down or cramped for space.

One of the defining characteristics of beach tote bags is their generous size, like YETI’s Camino Carryall . The 35L tote is water-resistant to protect your belongings from moisture and prevent the bag from becoming soggy or waterlogged. The durable nylon construction makes it simple to shake off sand or rinse any spills or stains.

Another hallmark of beach tote bags is vibrant colors and fun patterns. The Camino Carryall is available in Navy, King Crab Orange, Agave Teal, and other fun colors. Whether you prefer bright and cheerful hues or more subdued tones, there’s a beach tote bag to suit every taste and preference.

Many beach tote bags come with practical features that enhance functionality. The Camino Carryall has two internal pockets to store smaller items like sunscreen, sunglasses, keys, or smartphones. Additional pockets like the YETI’s rambler sleeves let you keep your essentials organized while you soak up the sun.

Fashion Tote

In the world of tote bags, a fashion tote often deviates from the utilitarian focus of traditional tote bags. They tend to emphasize aesthetics and usually serve as trendy accessories.

One example of a fashion tote bag is the Bagail Clear Bags Tote . Unlike traditional tote bags, which usually feature solid colors and classic designs, the Bagail Tote stands out because of its transparent construction. This allows for a modern, minimalist look that’s both chic and practical.

The Bagail Clear Bags Tote is an ideal accessory for attending sporting events, concerts, or other large-scale gatherings where traditional bags may not be authorized because of security regulations. In these situations, the tote’s transparent design allows for easy inspection of its contents while providing a stylish and functional way to carry essential items.

Closure Configuration

When it comes to tote bags, the variety is as diverse as the mechanisms used to secure their contents. Totes designed for utility and functionality often sport a range of zippers, while more laid-back tote bags might feature a drawstring or buckle closure.

When choosing your perfect tote bag, it’s crucial to consider the level of security your belongings require. While closure mechanisms can be enhanced, it’s important to note that retrofitting a zipper onto an open-top tote might be challenging, if not impossible.

Zipper Closures

Tote bags designed for carrying heavy items or valuable belongings are usually equipped with sturdy, practically indestructible zippers. This ensures that your belongings are always secured, no matter how frequently you use the zipper.

Many of the totes we tested feature zipper closures for added security. For instance, The North Face Base Camp Voyage r and Patagonia’s Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack , both commuter-focused totes, have zippers to secure your work or school essentials.

Similarly, the Cotopaxi Viaje 35L Weekender Bag comes with several zippers designed to keep your belongings secure while traveling. Lastly, the Bagail: Clear Stadium Tote features a single zipper that ensures your essentials are secure, whether in a group of 10 or 10,000.

Drawstring Closure

Many casual tote bags have drawstring closures, which allow users to cinch the opening shut with minimal effort. This closure type complements the bag’s relaxed vibe and provides easy access to belongings without sacrificing style.

P atagonia’s Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack and REI Co-op’s Pack-Away 45 are tote bags with different drawstring closures.

Let’s discuss their versatility. The Ultralight Black Hole has a main compartment with a zipper and drawstring closure. This allows you to carry items that extend outside the tote’s main compartment, meaning you can pack more without compromising on space.

On the other hand, the REI Pack-Away 45 has an extended collar that has a drawstring closure, which is further secured by a buckle strap. This design ensures your contents stay put, no matter how much you carry.

Hook Closure

Tote bags designed for outdoor use or on-the-go activities often use hook-and-loop closures. These closures provide a combination of style, functionality, and security, allowing for quick and easy access to the contents of the bag. Hook-and-loop closures are highly versatile and can range from simple designs to more intricate hardware, making them an excellent choice for customization based on the bag’s aesthetic.

The YETI Camino Carryall 35L has simple hook-and-loop closures that keep contents secure when carrying smaller loads. On the other hand, the REI Co-op Pack-Away 45 has a hook-and-loop closure with a compression strap that fully extends across the main compartment to secure contents even when fully packed.

Tote bags come in all sizes. The right size tote will depend on where and how you plan to use it.

A large tote with easy access to the main compartment and limited closure may be the perfect option for a beach trip. At the same time, commuters and students may need more prescribed totes that aren’t too large and have organization compartments and options to keep belongings secure.

Tote size may vary depending on how the bag is carried. Bags with crossbody straps allow users to shift the bag from their shoulders, which may minimize the size of the bag. For totes with backpack straps, much of the bag’s size is on your back and out of the way. 

A tote should be durable enough to protect your essentials. Nylon, polyester, and coated fabrics usually feel substantial without being weighty. These fabrics are often treated to be waterproof, water-resistant, or stain-resistant, enhancing their durability against the elements.

Some totes feature reinforced handles or stitching, especially at critical junctures, like where the handle meets the main compartment, the bottom of the bag, or along seams. Inner linings and padded areas dial up the protection inside and outside the tote.

The weight of a tote bag is an essential factor whether you intend to use the bag for commuting, travel, or shopping. The bag’s composition usually influences the weight and can indicate durability — but not always.

Many lighter bags are made of nylon or polyester. Though durable, bags made of heavier materials may hold up longer over time.

The lightest tote in our top picks, the Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole , weighs less than 1 pound. YETI’s Camino Carryall , on the other hand, weighs over 3 pounds.

It’s important to consider a tote’s weight, especially if you plan to carry any load over a considerable distance or for an extended period of time. Additionally, don’t discount a tote simply because of its weight since some of these bags can carry anything from logs to blankets.

Ideally, a tote should have features that enhance its intended use, like commuter totes with laptop sleeves, weekender totes with a dirty laundry compartment, and adventure totes with burly, reinforced handles or large, unobstructed main compartments. The features make a tote bag more functional, practical, and versatile.

Other features to consider include the ease of cleaning and whether a tote is aesthetically appealing -— minimalist, trendy, or classic.

Waterproofness

A waterproof tote can be ideal, especially in wetter conditions, so you don’t run the risk of ruining your essentials while commuting or traveling. Some totes have waterproof interiors and exteriors, and some manufacturers use proprietary waterproofing materials.

Nylon, polyester, and vinyl are often used to make waterproof bags. Even if the fabric is waterproof, water can still enter the bag if the seams are untreated. Carefully inspect seams to get an idea of how waterproof a bag may be.

Some manufacturers provide waterproof ratings for some tote bags. This rating usually ranges from 0 to 10,000 mm or higher. The higher the number, the more waterproof the material is considered to be. A rating of 0 mm means the material is not waterproof, while a rating of 10,000 mm means the material can withstand a 10,000 mm column of water before it begins to leak.

Remember, no tote bag is completely waterproof, but some are more water-resistant than others.

A good tote bag is a bag that perfectly suits your needs and wants. Before selecting a tote, you should consider several factors: size, durability, organization, versatility, and comfort.

A tote should be spacious enough to carry whatever you need without being bulky or cumbersome. The size of a tote will determine its usage, versatility, and organization capacity. Larger totes may carry clothes on one day and groceries on the next.

Just because a tote bag is spacious doesn’t mean it’s functional, especially if it lacks organization. Some totes have water bottle holders, inner and outer pockets, and laptop sleeves to protect your essentials.

You should also consider what type of material the tote is made from and whether the construction aligns with your needs. Many popular totes are made from nylon, canvas, or leather. If sustainability is important, consider tote bags made from eco-friendly materials like vegan leather.

Finally, the more comfortable the tote, the more likely you will use it. Consider whether you need padded or reinforced straps to distribute the tote’s weight evenly, especially if you plan to carry it for extended periods.

Every tote will encounter dirt, stains, dust, or smells at some point. Occasional cleaning is required to keep bags looking their best. When it’s time to clean your tote, consider the bag’s material, construction, and features.

Bags constructed from waterproof or water-resistant materials like nylon can be spot-cleaned by hand with water and mild detergent. Sticky or very dirty areas may require lukewarm water, mild detergent, and a soft-bristle toothbrush. If your tote gets stained with grease, many manufacturers recommend using a bit of Dawn dish detergent to lift stains gently.

Care should be exercised when cleaning button panels, straps, and porous materials like leather to prevent discoloration.

Depending on the material, some totes can be washed by hand with cold water and mild detergent. Rub the tote lightly with your hands or a soft brush. Air dry or wipe dry, depending on the material. 

How you plan to use a tote bag should be your primary consideration when deciding what you are willing to invest. Since many tote bags pull double duty, you should then consider the bag’s construction and durability of materials and accessories.

Some economical totes range from $20 to $100, while higher-end totes, made of premium materials, can average $150 to $300. Some fashion-forward totes can exceed $500.

A well-priced tote fits your everyday needs at a price point you deem valuable.

The Best Flip-Flops for Women of 2024

We tested the best flip-flops for women of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include Olukai, Teva, HOKA Chaco, and more!

The Best Hiking Shoes for Women of 2024

We hit the trail and traveled over everything from ice to sand to find the best hiking shoes for women. Whether you’re looking to go on short treks or weekend-long adventures, we’ve got you covered with women’s hiking shoes for every budget.

Taneika Duhaney is a gear tester and contributing writer for Gear Junkie. She has been writing about cycling, health, running, camping, and hiking for over ten years. Before GearJunkie, she was the contributing editor for the Men’s Journal Pursuits cycling channel. Based in Northern Virginia, Taneika spends as much time as possible outdoors with her children and dog, Bolt. Some adventures lead to misadventures while others lead to spectacular overnight biking, hiking or camping trips. She knows that while she and her family have explored a few areas, they have only just begun, and have so much more exploring to do.  

Follow Us On

Subscribe Now

Get adventure news and gear reviews in your inbox!

Join Our GearJunkie Newsletter

Gear Top Stories Deals

Every item on this page was chosen by a Veranda editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

The 9 Best Travel Tote Bags to Take on the Go, According to Experts

They're both stylish and durable.

Jonathan Alder, a Winter Park, Florida-based luxury travel advisor and founder of Jonathan’s Travels , has plenty of practice testing totes. He’s visited all seven continents across 72 countries personally, and has planned more than 30,000 client trips to date (advising them how and what to pack before departure).

“To steer clear of an unorganized inconvenience during a trip, a good travel tote bag must have spacious compartments that are easy to access and repack for built-in organization,” Alder says. “Being able to bring all essentials on the go while keeping everything organized is the ultimate goal. Durability is also important for a bag that can keep up with you!”

Mary Helen Law, a Rome, Georgia-based founder of Law Luxury Travel has six years of experience professionally planning trips in her role as a luxury travel advisor, and echoes those sentiments, noting that “functionality is key.” She adds, “I keep all of my most important items with me at all times: wallet, keys, chargers, laptop, travel toiletries, and medicine.”

This way, you’re prepared if your checked bag doesn’t make it quite as quickly as you do. It’s also wise to pack a change of clothes in a tote or weekender, Law says, just in case. The best luxury tote bags for travel align with the vibe of your trip and your wardrobe. Seek out a sportier option if you’re taking an active vacation. Or if it’s a business trip, a tailored and chic design might be best. For a solo vacation or a mother-daughter trip , a versatile weekender can be ideal.

Regardless of where or why you’re traveling, the best travel totes and weekenders come with ample pockets that allow for easy access to the essentials. Comfortable straps and/or handles, laptop pockets, pass-through bands that attach to luggage handles (AKA a “trolley sleeve”), and secure closures all earn bonus points in our ratings system.

Shop the Best Travel Totes for 2024

Best Large Travel Tote Bag

Béis the east to west tote.

Best All-Weather Travel Tote Bag

July carry all weekender.

Best Commuter Travel Tote Bag

Away the everywhere tote.

Constructed with recycled polyester and a recycled faux leather trim, this travel tote comes in black, beige, maple, and atlas pink colorways. Inside the tote, you’ll find two water bottle pockets to help you stay well-hydrated, as well as a 15-inch padded laptop pocket so your tech tools can come with you anywhere. Outside, you’ll find a handy zipper pocket and a trolley sleeve that easily slides over your roller bag’s handles for convenient carrying.

You’ll likely be charmed by all of the thoughtful details and the clever construction of this water-resistant weekender. While it looks compact and tucks nicely atop your carry-on or checked luggage (via a trolley sleeve), the interior has plenty of space for a 16-inch laptop, dividers and zippered pockets for easy access to all of the essentials, and an internal key hook so you won’t have to dig through the bottom of the bag. Bonus: This, like all July bags, comes with a 100-day return policy so you can test it out to confirm that you love it.

Choose from jet black, salt white, navy blue, or coast blue, then add a monogram for just $35 more. Then your zipper-topped, pocket-packed Away tote is ready to join you as your flight carry-on or commuter bag to and from the office (or to run errands). A snap-secured padded pocket fits up to a 15-inch laptop, and the bag is made with water-resistant nylon and leather trim.

Dagne Dover Daily Tote

Structured, chic, and practically runway-ready, this travel tote proves that Dagne Dover can excel at much more than fanny packs and backpacks. (Those are among their most popular bestsellers .) Mother Nature will approve of this vegan leather tote, too. Open the zipper top and you’ll spy the recycled REPREVE® lining that’s made from six recycled plastic bottles, along with several pockets, a vegan leather key chain, and a small padded laptop pocket.

Monos Metro Tote

Featuring scratch-resistant vegan leather on the outside, a sturdy zipper top, and a soft cotton twill fabric interior, the Metro Tote is available in four timeless hues: carbon black, ivory, saddle tan, and mahogany. The long tote handles can be carried by hand, of course, but they also are spacious enough to slip over your shoulder. Inside, a water bottle pocket, a small laptop sleeve (14 inches), and several small pockets await to help corral your wallet, pens, passport, keys, and other staples.

Solgaard Voyager Weekender

If Alder could only choose one travel tote to be his plus one on all of his global adventures, it would be this Solgaard weekender. Available in Baltic black, Galway green, or Atlantic navy durable Shore-Tex fabric, Alder—who “travels nonstop for work”—has taken this bag on all of his trips for the past year.

“It works as my main piece of luggage for short trips due to the amount of clothing it can fit, and its compact size makes it a perfect carry-on,” Alder tells us. The built-in shelving makes it sneakily spacious, Alder adds, and it has plenty of interior and exterior pockets that are easy to access, including a fleece-lined 16-inch laptop sleeve and two expanding side pockets that are ideal for toting an umbrella and a water bottle.

Open Story Signature Weekender Bag

As for Law, she was shocked by this budget bag. The trolley sleeve initially lured her in, and the price point made her think that she had nothing to lose. “I've had this bag for 2 years, and I use it almost every time I travel (which, as a travel advisor, is frequently),” Law says.

One huge highlight? “So. Many. Pockets,” she says, including a fleece-lined one for jewelry and a padded 15-inch laptop sleeve. The water-resistant nylon exterior makes this ideal to double as a gym bag, Law adds. “This is, by far, the most functional bag I have ever owned.”

Rimowa Never Still Vertical Tote

You can feel like you’re in the Mediterranean every day with this stylish made in Italy bag. Thoughtful details like the bespoke logo-emblazoned metal handle clips and the grooved leather external laptop pocket are the epitome of quiet luxury . For shorter excursions, such as to the office and back or for a flight where you checked a bag, this efficient travel tote could be a stellar travel companion. The spacious leather straps are ideal for sliding over your shoulder or carrying by hand. Choose from black or petal pink.

Bottega Veneta Medium Andiamo

Made in Italy from Intrecciato nappa leather and finished with brass detailing, this luxe bag is a must for the traveler who appreciates the finer things in life. A leather top handle and cross-body strap allow you to carry the bag two ways, and an interior zipper pocket keeps valuables secure while traveling.

Karla Walsh is a Des Moines, Iowa-based freelance writer, editor, freelance writing coach and level one sommelier who balances her love of food and drink with her passion for fitness (or tries to, at least!). She has over 15 years of professional experience covering food, wine, travel, nutrition, health, fitness, psychology, beauty, relationships and beyond. 

The Best Chair-and-a-Half Silhouettes of 2024

The 10 Best Cooling Blankets

20 Luxury Candles to Treat Yourself to Now

The 9 Best Blackout Curtains

The 20 Best Designer Belt Bags

The 16 Best Luxury Fragrances

16 Best Travel Dresses Money Can Buy

9 Best Hotel-Like Bed Sheets

39 Father's Day Gift Ideas Dad Will Actually Love

7 Best Potting Benches

31 Best Father's Day Gifts From Daughters

Best Travel Totes for Every Type of Adventurer

Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we may earn a commission from our partners’ links. This content is created independently from TIME’s editorial staff. Learn more about it.

Going on a trip? If you prefer to carry a lot of items while on the go versus the limited amount you can stuff into a purse or fanny pack, travel totes are the ultimate solution.. They're spacious, versatile, and can fit all your essentials, including your laptop, charger, makeup, and even your beach towel. Plus, they come in a variety of materials, styles, and sizes, so you can find one that matches your taste to a T.

How to choose the best travel tote

When it comes to choosing the best travel tote, there are several factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind when selecting a tote that will meet your needs:

What size is ideal for your travel needs?

Consider the length of your trip and the amount of items you need to bring with you. If you're going on a weekend getaway or short trip, a smaller tote might be sufficient. However, if you're traveling for longer periods, you'll need a tote that is spacious enough to accommodate all your belongings. Keep in mind that airlines have size restrictions for carry-on bags, so make sure to check the measurements before purchasing.

What material will hold up best during travel—and at your destination?

Travel totes come in a range of materials, including canvas, leather, nylon, and more. Depending on your destination and travel activities, you'll need to choose a material that's appropriate for the conditions you'll be facing. For example, if you're traveling to a beach location, you'll need a tote made of a waterproof or water-resistant material. If you're going on a hiking trip, you might want to choose a tote made of a durable material that can withstand rugged conditions.

Is it something that’ll be easy to carry?

A good travel tote should be comfortable to carry, especially if you'll be carrying it for extended periods of time. Look for totes with padded straps, adjustable straps, or other features that will make it easier to carry. If you're traveling to a city destination and will be using public transportation, you'll want a tote that's easy to carry on your shoulder or across your body.

Will it actually keep you organized?

Keeping your belongings organized while traveling can be a challenge. Look for a tote that has compartments or pockets to help you keep your items separated and easy to find. Some totes also come with removable pouches or inserts that make it easy to pack and unpack. If you’re moving around a lot, especially through busy cities, consider a tote that snaps or zippers closed for security, or at least one with a zippered compartment for valuables.

Our top travel tote picks

We've rounded up the best travel totes in different categories, including budget-friendly options, designer totes, and bags made of leather, canvas, and more. We also have recommendations for travel totes specifically designed for moms, work trips, and beach vacations.

Here are our top travel tote picks to help you find the perfect bag that fits your needs and makes your travels easier. With these totes, you won't have to worry about leaving anything behind or sacrificing style for practicality.

Best Budget Travel Tote: Baggu Duck Bag

This budget option is a score considering the generous size and adorable look. The Baggu Duck bag is a tall travel tote that holds a lot but stays close to your body, so it’s great for navigating crowds. It’s big enough to hold gym clothes and a 15-inch Macbook and has an interior zippered pocket for securely stashing things like your phone and keys.

This one comes in so many stylish color and pattern options, including chartreuse gingham if you want to make a statement and dark khaki if you like to keep things neutral. It’s made of sustainable materials too—recycled cotton, to be more precise—and can be popped in the washer for easy cleaning.

• Dimensions : 11 inches (width) x 4 ¾ inches (depth) x 15 ¾ inches (height)
• Material : Recycled Cotton Canvas
• Weight : not listed
• Colors : Multiple colors and patterns

Closure type : Snap

• Price : $38

Why we like it:

• Color and pattern options offer a fun look.
• Generous capacity.
• Easy-to-clean material.
• Fantastic price point.

Best designer travel tote: Longchamp Le Pliage Original

If you're looking for a designer travel tote, the Longchamp Le Pliage Original tote bag is the perfect choice. It's a classic and timeless tote that has been a staple in the fashion world for years. Not only is it stylish, but it's also functional and durable - perfect for all your travel needs.

One of the best things about this tote is its versatility. It's made of lightweight nylon that is water-resistant and easy to clean, making it ideal for any type of travel, whether it's a weekend getaway or a long-term adventure. The leather straps and accents add a touch of elegance and sophistication, elevating any outfit. It has a roomy main compartment that can hold all your essentials, including a laptop, clothing, and toiletries. It also has a smaller pocket on the inside to help you stay organized and keep your valuables safe.

And it’s foldable! Pack it in your luggage until you need it or as an extra bag just in case. This classic tote is our winner for best designer travel tote.

• Dimensions : 12 ¼ inches (width) x 7 ½ inches (depth) x 11 ¾ inches (height)
• Material : Recycled polyamide canvas with inside coating
• Weight : 290 g
• Colors : Multiple colors available
• Closure type : Zipper
• Price : $155
• Classic and timeless design.
• Durability.
• Spacious capacity.

LE PLIAGE ORIGINAL L TOTE BAG

Best leather travel tote: alem utility bag by able.

If you're looking for a leather travel tote that is both stylish and practical, we highly recommend the Alem Utility Bag by ABLE, crafted from high-quality, durable leather. It has a spacious main compartment that can hold all your travel essentials, including a laptop, books, and clothes. It also has an interior zip pocket and two exterior pockets for easy access to your phone, passport, and other items.

What sets this tote apart is its versatility. The Alem Utility Bag comes with adjustable straps that allow you to convert it into a backpack, making it perfect for those who want a bag that can transition from day to night. The leather straps and metal hardware give this tote a modern and chic aesthetic that will elevate any outfit. It is also one of the best work bags for women we’ve seen.

We also love that ABLE is committed to ethical and sustainable practices. The brand employs women who have overcome difficult circumstances, providing them with a fair wage and a safe working environment. So not only will you be getting a beautiful and practical tote, but you'll also be supporting a brand that makes a positive impact.

• Dimensions : 13 ¾ inches (width) x 6 inches (depth) x 13 ⅜ inches (height)
• Material : 100% genuine distressed leather
• Weight : n/a
• Colors : Whiskey
• Price : $268
• High-quality leather.
• Spaciousness.
• Versatility as both a tote and a backpack.
• ABLE's commitment to ethical and sustainable practices.

Alem Utility Bag

Best canvas travel tote: beis weekender tote.

Looking for a canvas travel tote that is both functional and stylish? Look no further than the Béis Weekender Water Repellent Tote Bag. One of the best things about this tote is its durability. It's made of high-quality canvas that is water-repellent, ensuring your belongings stay dry even in inclement weather. The leather accents and gold hardware give this tote a sophisticated and chic look that is perfect for any fashion-forward traveler.

The Béis Weekender Tote is also incredibly spacious. It has a roomy main compartment that can hold all your essentials, including clothes, shoes, and toiletries. The tote also features a front zip pocket and side pockets for easy access to your phone, passport, and other items.

What makes this tote even more impressive is its functionality. The tote comes with a detachable crossbody strap and a luggage sleeve, making it easy to carry and attach to your luggage. The tote also has a bottom shoe compartment, so you can keep your shoes separate from your clothes and other items.

• Dimensions :19 inches (width) x 9.8 inches (depth) x 15.7 inches (height)
• Material : Canvas
• Weight : 3.86 pounds
• Price : $108
• Durable canvas material.
• Spacious compartments.
• Functional design that includes a detachable crossbody strap, luggage sleeve, and bottom shoe compartment.

The Weekender

Best travel tote for moms: l.l. bean hunters tote bag.

Moms on the go need a tote that can keep up with their busy lifestyle, and the L.L. Bean Hunter's Tote Bag is up to the challenge. This tote is durable, versatile, and has plenty of room for all your family's essentials.

One of the best features of this tote is its durability. It's made of heavy-duty cotton canvas that can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use, ensuring it will last for years to come. The reinforced handles and bottom also make it easy to carry heavy loads.

The Hunter's Tote Bag is also incredibly spacious, and comes in three sizes. It has a roomy main compartment that can hold all your family's essentials, including snacks, drinks, toys, and more. It’s completely lined inside so you won’t need to worry about spills or messes. And you can even get it personalized with your family’s name or initials so you’ll always know it’s yours.

Dimensions :

• Medium: 13 inches (width) x 6 inches (depth) x 12 inches (height)
• Large: 17 inches (width) x 7.5 inches (depth) x 15 inches (height)
• Extra-Large: 19 inches (width) x 10 (depth) x 17 inches (height)
• Material : Polyester shell
• Closure type : No closure
• Price : $39.95 to $49.95
• Durable cotton canvas material.
• Three size choices.
• Versatile, compartmentalized design.

Hunter's Tote Bag, Open-Top Maple Brown Large, Nylon/Plastic L.L.Bean

Best organized travel tote: calpak luka duffel.

For travelers who like to stay organized, the CALPAK Luka Duffel is the ultimate travel tote. This duffel is designed with organization in mind. It has multiple pockets and compartments to keep your belongings neat and tidy.

It has a roomy main compartment with a double-zipper closure, and a separate bottom compartment for shoes or dirty clothes. It has nine pockets total! Imagine easy access to your phone, passport, and all your other items.

The Luka Duffel is also incredibly stylish. It's made of durable and lightweight nylon that is both water-resistant and easy to clean. The leather accents and gold hardware give this tote a modern and sophisticated look that will elevate any outfit.

Its functionality is an added bonus—complete with a detachable shoulder strap and a luggage sleeve, making it easy to carry and attach to your luggage. It also has a back sleeve that allows you to slide it over the handle of your suitcase for easy transport.

• Dimensions : 12 inches (height) x 16 inches (length) x 7 inches (width)
• Material : Polyester
• Weight : 1.95 pounds
• Price : $128
• Impressive organization features.
• Stylish design.
• Functional elements like a detachable shoulder strap and luggage sleeve.

CALPAK Luka Duffel in Matte Black

Best carry-on travel tote: mz wallace metro deluxe tote.

When it comes to finding the best carry-on travel tote, the MZ WALLACE Metro Deluxe Tote is the way to go. This tote is spacious, versatile, and fits perfectly under your seat, making it the perfect carry-on for any flight.

It has a roomy main compartment that can hold all your travel essentials, including a laptop, books, and clothes. It also has an interior zip pocket and six exterior pockets for easy access to your phone, passport, and other items.

It comes with a detachable crossbody strap and can be folded up and packed in its own pouch when not in use, making it easy to carry and store. The lightweight and water-resistant nylon material also makes it ideal for any type of travel.

The Metro Deluxe Tote is also incredibly stylish. The quilted design and leather trim give this tote a chic and modern look that will elevate any outfit. Plus, it comes in a variety of colors and patterns to suit any traveler's style.

• Dimensions : 11 inches (width) x 6 ½ inches (depth) x 13 inches (height)

Material : Nylon

• Weight : 2 pounds
• Price : $275
• Versatile design that includes a detachable crossbody strap and foldable pouch.
• Stylish quilted design that makes it a chic choice for any traveler.

MZ Wallace Medium Metro Deluxe Tote in Dawn at Nordstrom

Best luxury travel tote: chloé woody large linen tote.

In the world of luxury travel totes, the Chloé Woody Large Linen Tote stands in a league of its own. With its seamless blend of functionality, durability, and style, this tote bag makes a bold statement that is as much about its wearer as it is about its design.

It's made from high-quality linen, known for its durability and natural resistance to damage. The material also lends a unique aesthetic, making it a standout choice for those who appreciate individuality in their luxury accessories.

This tote is like your best travel buddy—it has room for all your goodies, from your trusty laptop to your favorite makeup essentials. It also has a zipped pocket inside to keep your precious items tucked away safely. Plus, the sturdy leather straps are adjustable and comfortable to carry around, so your shoulders won't hate you during your travels. And it’s made of linen, which means it's lighter than your average tote. So, go ahead and pack it full, it's built for those epic travel days!

A standout aspect of the Chloé Woody Large Linen Tote is its focus on sustainability. The linen used in its creation is an eco-friendly material. Linen requires less water and fewer pesticides to grow than other common fabrics, making this bag a great choice for eco-conscious luxury buyers.

True luxury lies in the details, and this is where Chloé truly excels. From the polished hardware to the branded dust bag that comes with each purchase, every aspect of the Chloé Woody Tote experience speaks to luxury and elegance.

• Dimensions: 17.7 inches (width) x 5.2 inches (depth) x 13 inches (height)
• Material: Linen, Leather trim
• Weight: N/A
• Colors: Black/Blue, White/Brown, White/Blue
• Closure type: Open
• Price: $1,450
• Luxurious materials
• Spacious compartments
• Timeless design that exudes sophistication.

Chloé Large Woody Linen Tote in White - Blue 1 at Nordstrom

Best travel tote for work trips: lo sons seville aire tote.

When it comes to finding the perfect travel tote for work trips, the Lo & Sons Seville Aire Tote is the ultimate choice. This tote is both stylish and practical, with features that are specifically designed for business travelers.

It has a roomy main compartment that can hold all your work essentials, including a laptop, files, and documents. It also has an interior zip pocket and several exterior pockets for easy access to your phone, passport, and other items. It comes in two sizes, 13 inches and 15 inches, so you can find your perfect laptop fit.

It comes with a detachable crossbody strap and a luggage sleeve, making it easy to carry and attach to your luggage. The lightweight and water-resistant nylon material also makes it ideal for any type of travel. And its sleek and modern design can go from airplane to conference room in no time.

• 13-inch tote: 12 ½ inches (height) x 18 ½ inches (width)
• 15-inch tote: 18 ½ inches (height) x 20 inches (width)

Weight : 2.6-2.8 pounds

Colors : Black or Navy

Price : $478 to $498

• Organizational features that are specifically designed for business travelers.
• Functional elements like a detachable crossbody strap and luggage sleeve.
• Stylish design that exudes professionalism.

The Seville Aire Tote - Nylon - Black / Gold / Grey

Best travel tote for the beach: l.l. beach boat and tote.

Beach lovers all over the world would agree that the iconic L.L. Beach Boat and Tote is the ultimate beach tote.

It's made of heavy-duty cotton canvas that can withstand the wear and tear of the beach environment, ensuring it will last for years to come. The reinforced handles and bottom also make it easy to carry heavy loads, like beach towels, chairs, and coolers.

It comes in a variety of sizes and colors, making it easy to find the perfect tote for your needs. You can also add a personalized monogram to make it even more special. Plus, the tote can be easily hosed off and cleaned after a long day at the beach.

• Small: 9½ inches (width) x 5 inches (depth) x 10½ inches (height)
• Large: 17 inches (width) x 7½ (depth) x 15 inches (height)
• Extra Large: 19 inches (width) x 10 inches (depth) x 17 inches (height)

Material : Cotton Canvas

Weight : N/A

Price : $29.95 - $44.95

• Variety of sizes.
• Practical features like reinforced handles.
• Easy-to-clean design that makes it the perfect choice for carrying beach essentials.

Boat and Tote, Open-Top Graphite Long, Canvas/Nylon L.L.Bean

Best large travel tote: aways the large everywhere bag.

When it comes to finding the best large travel tote, AWAY's The Large Everywhere Bag is the way to go. This tote is spacious, versatile, and perfect for carrying all your travel essentials. It’s basically a suitcase in travel tote form, and one of the best weekender bags we’ve seen.

It's large enough to hold all your travel essentials, including clothing, shoes, and toiletries. Plus, it has a trolley sleeve that perfectly secures to any AWAY suitcase, making it easy to attach and transport.

The Large Everywhere Bag is also incredibly functional. It comes with a detachable padded shoulder strap with concealable D rings, as well as top handles that are sized for carrying it on your shoulder comfortably. The full wraparound zip opening provides easy access to its spacious main compartment, making it a great choice for weekend or business travel.

It has a sleek and modern design that is perfect for any traveler. It's made of durable and water-resistant nylon that is both stylish and practical.

• Dimensions : 20.9 inches (length) x 9.4 inches (width) x 11.8 inches (height)
• Material : Nylon and Leather
• Weight : 3.8 pounds
• Price : $245
• Functional elements like a detachable padded shoulder strap and trolley sleeve that perfectly secures to any AWAY suitcase.
• Stylish design that’s versatile enough to go with any outfit.

AWAYs The Large Everywhere Bag

Best laptop travel tote: cuyanas system tote.

For those who travel with a laptop, the CUYANA System Tote is the ultimate choice. While most assume they need to use a laptop backpack, this tote brings a new style to the tech world. It was designed with a 3-in-1 approach in mind, featuring the System Laptop Sleeve and System Flap Bag that can be easily snapped in and taken out, allowing all pieces to work together or stand alone.

The System Tote is also incredibly practical. It has a roomy main compartment that can hold a laptop up to 15 inches, as well as an interior zip pocket and two exterior pockets for easy access to your phone, keys, and other items. The tote is made of high-quality leather that is both durable and stylish. It comes in a variety of colors to suit any style, and the snap-in pieces make it easy to customize the tote to fit your needs.

• 13-inch (fits a 13-inch laptop): 17.25 inches (width) x 5 inches (depth) x 10 inches (height)
• 16-inch (fits a 15 to 16-inch laptop): x 19 inches (width) x (D) 5.5 inches (depth) x 11 inches (height)

Material : Leather

Weight : 1.9 - 2.3 pounds

Price : $278 - 298

• Versatility
• Practical features like a roomy main compartment and interior/exterior pockets.
• Stylish, professional design.

System Tote

Best storage travel tote: samsonite foldaway tote.

If you're looking for a travel tote with ample storage, Samsonite's Foldaway Tote is the best choice. This tote is constructed of sturdy 600 denier nylon poly with PU backing, making it both durable and practical.

It has a large main zippered opening that can easily store all your extra souvenirs acquired during travel. The exterior features two slip pockets and one zip pocket for easy access to your phone, keys, and other items.

It’s also incredibly practical, as it easily folds into an integrated compact pouch with a loop for convenient carrying, making it the ideal solution for daily shopping, excursions, and beach trips. The integrated pouch can also be used as an interior pocket while the bag is in use, adding even more storage options.

The oversized shoulder and carry straps are comfortable and easy to carry, even when the tote is fully loaded. And at only $30, it's the perfect tote for any traveler who wants a practical and stylish bag that can hold all their travel essentials.

• Dimensions : 12 ½ inches (width) × 5.9 inches (depth) x 15.3 inches (length)
• Material : Nylon Poly
• Weight : 0.66 lbs
• Price : $30
• Ample storage capacity
• Practical features like an integrated compact pouch and oversized shoulder and carry straps
• Durable construction.

FOLDAWAY TOTE

What are travel totes.

Travel totes are versatile and spacious bags that are designed to make traveling easier and more comfortable. They are roomy, durable, and versatile, making them an ideal choice for carrying a variety of items, including clothing, toiletries, electronics, and more.

Unlike traditional suitcases or backpacks, travel totes typically have soft sides, making them more flexible and easier to pack in tight spaces like overhead compartments or under seats on planes. They also come in a variety of materials, such as canvas, leather, and nylon, and many styles and colors, so you can find one that fits your personal taste and travel needs.

How we selected the best travel totes

As avid travelers ourselves, we've used travel totes for just about every trip. We understand the importance of finding the perfect tote that meets your needs, so we've done our research to select the best travel totes on the market.

To select our top picks, we first looked at customer reviews and ratings to get an idea of which totes were popular and well-regarded. We also tested them ourselves to evaluate their durability, comfort, and functionality.

We considered factors such as price, material, size, and style to ensure that our top picks would meet the needs of a wide range of travelers. We're confident that our selection will help you find the perfect travel tote that fits your needs and makes your travels more enjoyable.

Frequently asked Questions (FAQs)

Is a tote bag good for traveling.

Yes, a tote bag is an excellent choice for traveling because it is spacious, versatile, and can accommodate a variety of items. Totes are also easy to pack in tight spaces like overhead compartments or under seats on planes, making them a convenient option for travel.

Is it better to carry a backpack or a tote bag?

This depends on your personal preference and travel needs. Backpacks are great for carrying heavier items and are more comfortable to carry for extended periods. Totes are generally more stylish and versatile, and can easily transition from day-to-night. Consider what you'll be carrying and how much walking you'll be doing to determine which option is best for you.

What size tote can you carry-on a plane?

This varies depending on the airline you're traveling with, but most airlines allow carry-on bags that are no larger than 22 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches tall. Some airlines also have weight restrictions, so make sure to check with your airline before traveling.

What is the difference between a tote and a bag?

A tote is a type of bag that has two straps and an open top. Totes are typically spacious and versatile, making them a popular choice for carrying a variety of items. A bag is a general term that refers to any type of container used for carrying items. While a tote is a type of bag, not all bags are totes.

The information presented here is created independently from the TIME editorial staff. To learn more, see our About page.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel Products
• Luggage + Bags
• Backpacks, Totes + Small Bags

These 10 Stylish Tote Bags Are Roomy Enough to Use As Carry-ons — and They Start at Just $19

Amazon, Samsonite, Béis, and Away have genius, lightweight bags that still fit under the plane seat.

Travel + Leisure / Pamela Jew

I’m a full-time traveler, and I’ll let you in on a secret: Tote bags are the best type of carry-on. Last summer, I bought a gold one in Cascais, Portugal, that changed the game, allowing me to carry an array of things like my laptop, change of clothing, and an umbrella in addition to my keys and wallet. On any given day, I still had space left for an impromptu supermarket run or an impulse buy.

Why ditch the bulky carry-on luggage for a tote? For starters, totes are easy to carry — it’s even in the name! Most are pretty lightweight with flat straps that stay put, so they’re comfortable, too. They hold a deceptive amount, and they’re usually pretty wide, so they distribute the weight evenly (your back will thank you). Style-wise, tote bags keep things casual yet cool. Add extras like compartments, expandability, anti-theft features, and waterproofing, and you’ve got the makings of a great piece of luggage that prevents you from overpacking, whether you’re flying for business or pleasure.

So in honor of my trusty tote bag, I’ve rounded up the best options out there right now starting at just $19, from a stylish Béis weekender to a flight-attendant approved, three-in-one Cyureay Convertible Tote Backpack . The standard Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) size for carry-on luggage is 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches, and all 10 of the standout tote bags below obey the size limits yet hold an extraordinary amount of stuff securely. With carry-on totes this cool, your ticket may say “economy,” but your style will broadcast “frequent flier.”

Samsonite Foldaway Packable Tote Sling Bag

You expect a lot from Samsonite, and this tote bag delivers. It’s packed with pockets that can hold small electronics like tablets, e-readers, headphones, and earbuds. The main compartment comfortably holds in-flight essentials like a light sweater, sleep mask, and toiletries, plus any souvenirs you pick up along the way. The nylon-polyester tote has thick, sturdy straps so it’s comfy to carry, but here’s the best part: When not in use, the lightweight tote folds down to fit a compact pouch. Just stick it in your suitcase so it won’t get lost!

“It will hold a weekend’s worth of clothes for when you want to fly but don’t want to pay for a carry-on,” one fan wrote, adding that it “is a good, big size but the material is thin…so it doesn’t seem like a carry-on, though it can hold just as much stuff.”

To buy: amazon.com , $26

Fit + Fresh Metro Tote

This multitasker is business on one side and party on the other. The insulated half of this tote bag is lined with BPA-free PEVA, 5-mm thick interior padding and 300D polyester, so you can stash all your favorite snacks, hot foods, and cold drinks for a long flight ahead and keep them at the optimal temperature for a full day. The other side is spacious enough for a laptop, magazines, compression socks, an extra outfit, and whatever else you need to work or relax in-flight. The lightweight tote has heat-welded seams so it won’t leak, and it wipes clean easily.

“This tote is perfect for anyone who wants to keep a cool drink/sweaty water bottle away from important documents,” wrote one wise reviewer. “There are two completely separate compartments, so you won’t worry about spillage from the insulated side to the non-insulated side. It’s truly a game-changer.”

To buy: amazon.com , $21 (originally $30)

Béis The Mini Weekender

Color me smitten: It’s a tote bag that’s also a weekender! Imagine a tote bag you can use as your personal item, carry-on, and only piece of luggage: This Béis bag is it. In addition to a spacious main compartment, is has the all-important laptop sleeve (easy to access when you’re going through airport security) and a zippered bottom compartment for your shoes or toiletries (or snacks). It also has a passthrough that attaches to your suitcase handle, making it efficient in every way we can think of. Your only problem will be choosing which cool color you like best.

“High quality, very sturdy, and fits loads,” one Béis customer said of their Mini Weekender. “[I] will be using it for years to come.”

To buy: beis.com , $88

Bagsmart Large Tote Bag

This roomy carry-on tote takes packing space to the next level — not only can it store your clothes, work supplies, personal electronics, and other travel essentials, but it also has space for a yoga mat, too. (Anyone who’s ever tried to fly with one knows how impossibly awkward and cumbersome that can be without the right gear.) This large tote bag saves the day with a brilliant fixed buckle made just for the job, so you can attach your mat to the top with no fuss. It also has a side pocket that fits your water bottle and a front pocket for easy access to things like your phone or passport.

“The shoulder straps are comfortable, and the bag is easy to carry....not too heavy when full,” wrote a happy customer.

To buy: amazon.com , $30 (originally $43)

Away F.A.R Tote 45L

This spacious tote by Away was built to be a carry-on. Made of recycled materials with an abrasion- and weather-resistant finish, it will safely store clothing, shoes, electronics, and more and keep them safe and dry in any condition. It also has some stealth storage, including a hidden exterior pocket for easy access to your passport or phone, an interior mesh pocket for smaller valuables like earbuds or jewelry, and an interior webbing loop to keep your keys secure. Thanks to a trolley sleeve, you can easily attach it to your luggage handle and zip to your gate. Choose from five colors, including the popular orange.

“I like to keep my hiking gear separate from other clothing so this bag is ideal for that — hiking shoes, bladder backpack, poles, leggings, shirts, hats, electrolytes and granola bars, first aid kit etc,” wrote a savvy shopper.

To buy: away.com , $98 (originally $140)

Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Tote Bag

Attention, light packers: this is the only tote bag you’ll want to fly with. Thanks to a front pocket with RFID protection, which blocks thieves from remotely scanning your credit cards, passport and other important documents, you’re free to focus on more pressing airport matters like exchanging your money for foreign currency or finding a public charging station for your phone. The tote has other safety features, too, like a front pocket with a locking zipper and a key clip with an LED light.

“I purchased this bag for a recent trip to Brazil and it was great; it held everything I needed and gave me an added sense of security,” wrote one savvy shopper. They added that the “zippers locked, and I could dress the bag up with pretty scarves or leave it plain depending on the situation.” 

To buy: amazon.com , $90

Cyureay Convertible Tote Bag/Backpack

This tote bag is an impressive three bags in one: in addition to a rugged tote, it converts into a backpack and crossbody — how’s that for versatility? It’s made of durable, scratch- and water-resistant nylon with a padded, reinforced shoulder strap for comfort while you wait in never-ending airport lines. Speaking of, this tote also has a built-in USB port for charging up your phone. It’s got you covered on all fronts, with the spaciousness to hold a large laptop as well as many compartments, including an anti-theft pocket in the back.

“As a flight attendant, I need one multipurpose bag, and this is it,” One shopper wrote , adding that they tried at least 19 others. “It has a luggage strap, handles, backpack option, and long handle. I’ve washed it and thrown it around endlessly. It’s a real winner in my book.”

To buy: amazon.com , $30

Baggallini Any Day Tote with RFID Phone Wristlet

Lightweight and water-resistant, this nylon tote has pockets galore, and most of them are hidden inside where valuable things stay safe and out of reach. External zippered pockets keep things like your passport and wallet handy, though. It’s easy to carry and maneuver this bag thanks to an adjustable strap and a sleeve that lets you slide the bag right over your suitcase handles. The cherry on top is the matching anti-theft wristlet, which is armed with RFID technology to prevent your cards and ID from being scanned by would-be thieves.

“This bag was everything and a bag of chips. This helped so much for our travel over to Europe,” wrote a five-star reviewer. “Even the flight attendant stated that she had the same bag and loves it. I am so happy to have this. Plus, the extra security of RFID made it a no-brainer.”

To buy: amazon.com , $80 (originally $118)

Orshawer Carry-On Tote Bag

This lightweight tote bag is just $19 but is more efficient for travel than plenty of tote bags 10 times that price. The waterproof and rip-resistant bag has lots of space for up to five days’ worth of clothes, cosmetics and more, but it’s the compartments that really make this one a winner. Internal pockets are specifically designed to let you separate dry and wet belongings, and a hidden pocket on the bag’s luggage sleeve conceals important items where you least expect it. When you’re not using it, just fold the tote up into its compact case and stow it in your luggage.

“It’s bigger than expected but can easily be reduced to a smaller size. I was shocked at how much it held and still fit under the airplane seat,” wrote a fan.

To buy: amazon.com , $19

Kenneth Cole Reaction Chelsea Quilted Chevron

Getting through airport security with a laptop in your carry-on can be daunting, but this well-designed tote makes it easy. That’s because its laptop compartment opens out, making it a cinch to slip the device in and out without holding up the line, and the compartment even hides spots and sleeves for valuables like your tablet, phone, passport, and even your toothbrush and toothpaste. This bag actually has pockets galore, both zipped and unzipped, including a zippered front pocket for things you need at the ready. A trolley strap in the back just completes the convenience of this beloved bag.

“This bag is classy and great for traveling,” one reviewer wrote, saying they even “like it so much better than the Tumi I was originally shopping for. [It has] great pockets and protection for [my] computer and iPad.” They concluded that it “looks professional and [is] very sturdy.”

To buy: amazon.com , $80

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Shop More T+L-Approved Picks

Related Articles

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE Decor editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

The 16 Best Travel Tote Bags You Need to Have for Your Next Trip

Make your schlep chic.

But which option is the right one for you? To get you started on your globe-trotting journey we’ve tested several of the best travel tote bags out there, as well as scoured the web for products with glowing reviews and top ratings from actual shoppers. Additionally, we determined key features to look for including laptop sleeves, convenient exterior pockets, and a few machine-washable options that make maintenance a breeze.

The Best Travel Tote Bags 2024

Best Overall

July everyday large tote.

Most Durable

Away the everywhere tote.

Best Quiet Luxury

Carl friedrik compact weekender.

To ensure you’re ready for your next getaway , scroll away to see our top tote picks on the market in 2024. Shop on and take off like never before!

We love this bright and spacious tote, courtesy of July. Made completely out of cotton canvas, the durable bag is machine-washable, and there’s a spot for all your on-the-go must-haves. You’ll find a sleeve for your laptop, which holds up to a 16-inch device and even a holder for your water bottle. There’s also a side band for your luggage handles to easily go through.

A July reviewer says: “Highly recommended. Tote fits everything required for travel with plenty of interior pockets. Great way to travel interstate and overseas with NO checked baggage.”

Leave it to the beloved travel brand Away to create a versatile tote that complements any adventure. It comes in four sleek colors and is designed with durable, water-resistant nylon and a chic leather strap. You can personalize it, too, and know that if you bundle your tote purchase with a suitcase, you can snag $50 off.

This elegant Carl Friedrik bag is the epitome of luxury as it consists of premium quality leather and high-end, nickel-silver-finished hardware. It’s just the right size for small necessities, a change of clothes, and a pair of shoes, making it ideal for the gym or quick trips.

A Carl Friedrik reviewer says: “I use it as my daily driver. I keep gym clothes, additional layer and shoes along side my MacBook Pro and e-reader. However, there isn’t a laptop compartment. The bag usually has about 4-6 kg of weight in it and feels sturdy; and is good to wear with smart and a smart casual look.”

Quince Classic Italian Leather Tote

A leather tote for under $100? Now that’s a steal. Quince is known for delivering quality essentials at affordable prices. The bag can carry up to a 13-inch laptop with a separate pocket for your phone. You’ll be able to take it from the airport to sightseeing in no time!

A Quince reviewer says: “I really love this bag. It’s soft, fashionable, looks luxe and is sturdy. The straps are comfortable and there’s plenty of pockets inside. There’s also a keychain strap so I don’t lose keys in the black hole of a bigger purse.”

Arlo Skye The Weekender

Introducing the travel carry-on of your dreams. The Arlo Skye weekender is a lot roomier than it seems as it can fit an array of outfits, a pair of shoes, a water bottle, a laptop, an iPad, and other travel accessories. As an added bonus, it’s water-resistant and boasts a two-year warranty.

An Arlo Skye reviewer says: “Pockets in all the right places. Great for a ‘personal item’ to supplement your carry on roller suitcase.”

Dagne Dover Wade Diaper Tote

Moms can’t get enough of Dagne Dover’s diaper tote. There’s a spot for everything a child (or two) could ever need. Each purchase also includes a mini changing mat and extra storage pouches. It can even clip onto a stroller, and there’s a game-changing zipper opening for wipes, so you no longer have to dig around to find some.

A Dagne Dover reviewer says: “I’m not a fan of bookbag diaper bags because I have to search through them to find what I need. This bag is perfect to find things and I can keep it organized. It has enough room for everything for my 3 and 1 year old. I would highly recommend!”

Baggu Duck Bag

Calling all snack fiends or anyone with kids who are prone to spills, the Duck Bag is the solution you’re looking for. It’s a good-size bag that’s machine-washable.

A Baggu reviewer says: “This is not as flimsy as a regular tote bag. It’s a good quality tote bag... Very spacious and can carry a lot.”

lululemon Daily Multi-Pocket Tote Bag

You can’t go wrong with a Lululemon tote bag. It’s a classic silhouette made for any outing with plenty of exterior pocket storage, so you can have quick access to anything from a passport to a water bottle.

A Lululemon reviewer says: “I purchased this for my new job at a hospital. I tend to carry a lot of stuff and this bag couldn’t be more perfect. Lightweight but sturdy and stylish.”

Longchamp Le Pliage Original Large Tote

On the hunt for something that can hold a lot but won’t take up much space when you’re traveling? Enter: Longchamp’s Le Pliage tote. It weighs less than a pound and can be folded into the size of a paperback book in a flash.

An editor’s review: “I’ve been carrying my laptop around in this tote since college. Since then, it has made it with me to several countries because of its lightweight structure and it doesn’t hurt that it pairs well with any outfit.”

Rimowa Never Still Tote Large Bag

For a timeless buy, go with the Never Still Tote. It can slide right onto a carry-on suitcase, thanks to its unique strap embroidered with Rimowa’s Cologne, Germany, coordinates. You can rest easy knowing that it has a two-year warranty and has been created with top-notch canvas and leather.

An editor's review: “I grabbed this bag in yellow to match my carry-on suitcase and it basically doubles the amount of storage I have when I travel. The spacious tote also has a separate interior pocket for my laptop and then, I use the rest of the space to house my skincare routine, toothbrush, change of clothes, and more during a flight.”

Cuyana Classic Easy Tote

Next up is a buttery, soft tote with space for a laptop as big as 16 inches. The bag is available in a range of colors including new hues like Biscuit, Sage, and Terracotta, and also comes in three different sizes. You can keep it casual for vacation, but most shoppers love dressing it up for the office. To keep all your work stuff organized , grab the useful tote insert starting at $98.

A Cuyana reviewer says: “Absolutely perfect bag for everyday, for work, and for weekends. It holds EVERYTHING!”

Rothy's The Reversible Summer Tote

Rothy’s has a reversible, rope tote made from an eco-friendly hemp blend that couldn’t be a better fit for a day at the beach. It could also work as a night bag when you head back out after the sun goes down. The best part? This tote is machine washable—but just make sure you let it air-dry.

BÉIS The Work Tote

It’s no secret that Béis is leading the charge in luggage innovation, and this work tote is proof. As soon as you open up the bag, you’ll see that there’s a place for everything, and given the headache of traveling, you’ll breathe a sigh of relief when your stuff is organized.

An editor’s review: “When I’m out and about, I’m usually searching for my Airpods, a pen, my water bottle, or my keys. This work tote has cut out the stress of feeling like I’ve misplaced something because there’s a pocket for my water bottle, a leash for my keys, and a removable pouch where I keep all my small must-haves.”

L.L. Bean Boat and Tote, Zip-Top (Medium)

Nothing beats L.L. Bean’s canvas tote. Starting out as a bag to haul ice, over the years it has been tested and the brand has found that it can carry up to 500 pounds. In short, it can handle anything.

An L.L. Bean reviewer says: “I’ve been buying these bags since middle school in the late 70s/early 80s and they’ve always exceeded any other brand’s bags. I’m just glad they finally added a zip top years ago...”

Think Rolyn Sporty Spice Pickleball Bag

Impress your pickleball group with this tote that can carry it all. You can even remove the paddle cover portion and use it as a casual travel or day-to-day bag. Our only advice? Act fast as it looks like there are only a few left in each color.

An editor’s review: “Pickleball paddle covers are everywhere, but it took me a while to find a sturdy bag to house my paddle and other essentials. Think Rolyn’s Sporty Spice is spacious, stylish, and works well as a carry-on and a gym bag.”

Marc Jacobs The Canvas Small Tote Bag

This Marc Jacobs tote is both stylish and on sale for a limited time. It’s available in an endless number of colors, and the zip closure up top ensures that it will keep all your small items you pack in place.

An editor’s review: “My best friend gave this to me as a maid of honor present and I’ve been obsessed ever since. It’s eye-catching, adorable, and thanks to its small size, I’ve become much more intentional with what I bring with me. I highly recommend it to adventurers who are trying to pack lighter.”

Why Trust Us?

For more than three decades, ELLE DECOR has covered style makers, trendsetting interiors, and must-have home furnishings. With a focus on the latest design trends and ideas about how to incorporate them into improving your own space, we’re your go-to resource for elevating and beautifying your home. Our team of editors and interior design pros research and review every new article we publish to ensure you have the most up-to-date, expert-approved information.

Isis Briones is House Beautiful’s Senior Shopping Editor, she’ll find the best items for your home at every price point. She also loves to travel, so don’t be surprised if she hooks you up with some travel deals. Find more of her work published in Complex , Architectural Digest , Teen Vogue , and more.

Accessories

Ridhi on Amazon Has the Best Summer Linens

What to Buy from Serena & Lily's 4th of July Sale

The 10 Best Retro Mini Fridges to Shop Now

Our Favorite Under-$50 Home Decor Finds on Amazon

The Best Bath Towels on Amazon

These Sheets Are Tyler, the Creator–Approved

The Best New Statement Lighting of 2024

Introducing the Summer’s Hottest Outdoor Fabrics

Crate & Barrel Teams Up with Laura Kim

These Best-Selling Satin Pillowcases Are Just $6

20 Best Quilts and Coverlets for Your Bedroom

Best hand luggage 2024: These carry-on suitcases & bags make holiday travel so much easier

Okay, so summer is here and I know you're as ready as I am to head off on holiday!

So you've booked your tickets and marked your calendars and now the next step is to get packing. Whether you're jetting to the coast for a sun-soaked vacation or embarking on a city break with loved ones, it's always good to pack light.

• Best expandable carry-on: Samsonite Upscape Expandable Cabin Case
• Best Amazon carry-on: LEVEL8 Carry-on Suitcase With Front Pocket
• Best affordable soft-side carry-on: IT Luggage World’s Lightest 2 Wheel Cabin Suitcase
• Celebrity favourite carry-on: AWAY The Carry-On Flex
• Hailey Bieber-approved carry-on: Beis The Carry-On Roller

I've travelled everywhere from Glasgow to Thailand this year, and there's one thing every trip has had in common: a great carry on suitcase to bring on the plane as hand luggage. Even for longer trips, I don't like to risk losing what I'll need for the first few days in case of lost luggage – we're already seeing those much-repeated scenes of summer airport chaos and missing cases in the news! 

So, I can advise that, if you're wanting a stress-free holiday, a carry-on suitcase could be the best option. So we've rounded up the best hand luggage for your travels, so you can make the process as easy and as stress-free as possible. 

What to consider when choosing a carry-on suitcase

As a former military kid and current transatlantic frequent flier, I’ve taken a lot of flights in my lifetime! Here’s what you should look for in a carry on suitcase:

• Size : This is the most important factor, because the most important detail about a carry on is that you’re allowed to carry it on the plane! Check your go-to airline’s size restrictions, but generally they should measure around 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm).
• Hard-shell or soft? Soft-shell suitcases are much lighter and easier to fit in small spaces and in the overhead bins. They don’t, however, protect your belongings as well as a durable hard shell. Hard shell cases also are handy in case you ever have to check your carry on. Whichever you choose, make sure the zipper is sturdy and secure.
• Compartments : Internal compartments will help keep you organised, and a carry-on bag with external pockets for your tablet or laptop will give you easy access, making going through security much smoother.

Step out with the most stylish carry-on luggage from Amazon, John Lewis, ASOS and more.

How I picked the best carry on suitcases

• Tried and tested: If a member of the HELLO! team owns and loves a certain carry on suitcase, you'll find it on this list with our honest opinion.
• Verified ratings and reviews: Where we haven't personally tested out the bag, I've scoured verified opinions from real shoppers to find the most popular and most-loved pieces to shop now.
• Trusted brands and retailers: I've only selected carry on suitcases from HELLO! Shopping Team go-tos and brands and retailers that have a proven track record of success with our readers.
• Style:  There's no sense in ruining your well-planned airport outfit with a dowdy bag, so I've picked the most aesthetically pleasing carry-ons by respected brands, from classics Samsonite and Antler to celebrity faves like Beis and Away.
• Price point:  I'll leave it up to you whether you want to splurge on a luxury bag or save with an Amazon pick! But I've included an option for every budget. 

Best carry on suitcases

Samsonite upscape 4-wheel 55cm expandable cabin case.

The Details

• Size: H55 x W40 x D20/23cm
• Weight: 2.3kg
• Capacity: 39/45L
• Warranty: 5 year guarantee 
• Four spinner wheels
• TSA approved
• Combination lock

Editor's note:

“It’s hard to think of a more popular and reputed brand than Samsonite, and that’s probably why this cabin suitcase is a best seller. It has a sleek design - a Samsonite signature - and shoppers say it’s light and spacious and manoeuvres easily. And there’s a solid warranty if it doesn’t hold up to your standards.”

LEVEL8 Carry on Suitcase

• Size:55 x 37 x 25CM 
• Weight: 5kg
• Capacity: 36 L (42L when expanded)

“If you’re someone who loves a hardshell carry-on, but also wants to easily access your tablet, laptop or other must-haves easily without opening your luggage entirely, I strongly recommend a suitcase with a front pocket, like this top rated Amazon case. It has all the necessary features of a regular carry-on – it’s expandable, has a telescoping handle and spinner wheels – but with the added convenience of a roomy and easily accessible front pocket. A real game changer!”

AWAY The Carry-On Flex

$325 / £265 at Away

• Size: 21.7"(H) x 13.7"(W) x 9"(D)
• Weight: 8.15 lbs
• Capacity: 39.8 L (When expanded: 46.7 L)
• Warranty: Free returns on unused items for the first 100 days
• Durable polycarbonate hard shell
• Leather details, including a black leather luggage tag
• TSA-approved combination lock 
• 360° spinner wheels 
• Underside grab handle
• Interior compression system 
• Hidden laundry bag

"AWAY is one of the most popular luggage brands with the celebrity set, from Kylie Jenner to Margot Robbie. Barbie star Margot’s AWAY Carry-On Flex is my pick because it is built to last, with a durable polycarbonate hard shell that can withstand any journey. Perfect for longer trips, it is sized to fit in the overhead bin of most major airlines, and still lightweight to pop easily onto a train or into a car. It comes in 11 colours, too!"

IT Luggage World’s Lightest 2 Wheel Cabin Suitcase

• Size:55cm(H) x 39.5cm(W) x 19cm (D)
• Weight: 1.58kg
• Capacity: 35L
• Warranty: 10 years
• Two in-line wheels
• Retractable handle
• Two internal pockets + One external pocket

“This affordable It Luggage suitcase has earned rave reviews at Argos, where it has a 4.7-star rating and is recommended by 95% of customers. I can definitely see the appeal - it’s lightweight, inexpensive, made from durable fabric and has a fun, sporty design. It also comes in medium and large sizes if you’d like a matching set! The downside is that it doesn’t have spinner wheels, so you may want to consider another option if that’s a dealbreaker.”

Beis The Carry-On Roller

$285 / £244 at Beis

• Size: W 40cm H 58cm D 25cm
• Weight: 8.36lbs/3.79KG
• Capacity: 49 - 61 L
• Warranty: BÉIS Limited Lifetime Luggage Warranty 

“Like Away, celebrity approved option is by an influencer’s favourite, Shay Mitchell’s Beis. This stylish hand luggage is Hailey Bieber approved! If you’re wanting to travel in style, this suitcase comes in 10 matte colours and three glossy hues, and it has some great details like a cushioned silicone trolley handle. It’s expandable, too, and there’s a lifetime Beis guarantee making it a solid investment. It has definitely earned its thousands of five-star reviews.”

NERE Caype Cabin Suitcase

£99 at Nere

• Size:  55(H) x 37.5(W) x 20(D) cm
• Weight: 3.2 kg
• Capacity: 36/44 Litres
• Warranty: 10-year
• 8 Spinner Wheels
• Built-in TSA combination lock

"I'm a sucker for pretty luggage and I've become quite smitten with NERE - it's a new Australian brand and it's really affordable. But the best thing about the products? The cute colours! The Nere Caype is available in 'blush gloss' and it's the prettiest colour I've ever seen. In the carry-on luggage size of 55cm, the Caype is the perfect travel piece to have by your side for that next flight or car ride. The hard case is made from quality ABS material and it's finished with rose gold accents - chic with a capital C."

- Leanne Bayley , Director of Lifestyle & Commerce

Antler Icon Stripe Cabin with Expander

£175 at John Lewis

• Size:36 x 55 x 23 cm
• Weight: 2.8 kg
• Capacity: Up to 46L when expanded
• Warranty: Lifetime

"I love usingAntler - their best-selling suitcases are known for their style and durability.It's definitely one for a travel enthusiast. I was eager to try out thisbrand's hard-case suitcase on my latest holiday. Having used a cabin suitcasewithout a top handle before, this one was a lifesaver! It not only looks sleekand stylish but also sustained minimal damage during my journey. The wheels areimpressively robust, handling continuous lugging up and down stairs and fittinginto luggage racks with ease. I also loved the comfort grip handle.Additionally, the expandable case comes with a dust bag for safe storage athome."

- Sharnaz Shahid, HELLO! Deputy Online Editor

American Tourister Stratum XLT Expandable Hardside Luggage

• Size: 35.56 x 22.86 x 55.88 cm
• Weight: 6lb
• Spinner wheels
• Interior mesh pocket and cross straps
• Adjustable handle

"I confess I bought this carry on basically for the style - but as it turns out it has been my super-durable go-to for years! It’s very lightweight, although it doesn’t have a lot of swishy extras. But it is so reliable, does the job and is cute and affordable, too."

Best carry-on totes, bags & backpacks

Kipling art m multi-use tote with trolley sleeve.

• Soft - Outer material 100% Recycled Polyester
• Size: 58cm(W) x 32m(H) x 20cm(D)
• Weight: 0.50 kgs
• Capacity: 26 Litre
• Warranty: Repairs under warranty available; Returns within 30 days.
• One zipped main compartment
• One inside pocket (zipped)
• Two front pockets (1 open + 1 zipped)
• Robot monkey
• Shoulder strap
• Trolley sleeve

"This roomy Kipling tote bag has proved to be my best friend for weekend trips away. It's comfy to carry even when at full capacity and has plenty of room for everything. There are also plenty of pockets to keep everything organised. I love that it has a luggage strap so you can slot it over your suitcase handle and that it has expander zips which you can open to make it even more roomy. I have the Freida Kahlo version but it comes in a rainbow of different colours and styles to suit all tastes."

- Katherine Robinson , HELLO! Online Senior Lifestyle Editor

Everlane The ReNew Transit Messenger

$29 / £27 at Everlane

• Dimensions: 16.5" L X 12" H X 6" D
• Capacity: 21L
• Main compartment with a zipper closure
• Adjustable padded shoulders straps, a top handle and luggage pass thru webbing
• Pockets: 1 internal zippered; 1 padded laptop slip pocket; 2 mesh side pockets; 2 slip pockets
• Materials: 100% recycled polyester from recycled plastic bottles

"When I'm checking my suitcase and don't feel like toting my hard-side carry-on through the airport, I use my Everlane messenger bag. It's roomy and is easy to carry - there's a padded shoulder strap and luggage strap in case you want to attach it to your suitcase - and has so many compartments, including room for a laptop and my iPad. Not to mention it's super stylish! It's also the perfect unisex design - my husband uses it, too."

WONHOX Large Travel Backpack

• Size: 43cm x 30cm x 20cm / 16.93 "x 11.8 " x 7.9 "
• Weight: 1kg / 2.2Lb  
• Padded shoulder straps
• Anti-theft zipper pocket
• Laptop and tablet compartments
• Water resistant
• USB charging port
• Luggage attachment strap

“You'll be glad you invested in Amazon's carry-on backpack - it has over 10,000 five-star ratings! Between the laptop compartment, separate shoe compartment and built-in charging port, it might just be the ultimate travelling sidekick.”

The North Face Base Camp Duffel

• Size: 33 cm x 53cm x 33cm
• Volume: 50L
• Weight: 1195g
•  Removable, adjustable, alpine-cut shoulder straps and two padded side handles
• D-zip opening with a weather-resistant, zipped flap
• Main compartment with secure-zip mesh pocket; end-cap mesh sleeve pocket
• Water resistant; Water-resistant ID window

"North Face is famous for its durable gear, and has a wide selection of duffel bags ready to shop. When it comes to the ones that are cabin-approved though, our favourite is the Base Camp Duffel, which can be carried as a bag or worn as a backpack. It's eco-friendly (made from recycled materials), water repellent and comes in more than a dozen colours!"

You may also like

This travel backpack with usb charger is just what i've been looking for - and it has 42k positive reviews, 12 best laptop bags for women wanting a stylish commute in 2024, this viral uniqlo bag is the 'fits everything' work bag you never knew you needed, how to get the most out of your carry-on luggage this summer.

Experts on the team at Dr. Martens have rounded up some fabulous advice about how to get the most of your carry-on luggage this summer. We're taking notes...

• Plan your outfits day by day to save yourself space and get-ready time. I am old school so just lay my clothes out on the bed and try them on with shoes and accessories - although I have friends who take photos to know what they'll look like! According to Dr Martens, that's a great idea. “This way you’ll only take what you need. It might also be useful to think of items that you can wear more than once and in multiple ways."
• Use packing cubes.  I am a huge fan of packing cubes  - I swear by the leak-proof toiletry bag set by Mumi , and Amazon's space-saving compression packing cubes , so I absolutely concur with this advice! "Pack your underwear and socks in one, and tops and trousers in another, to keep things neat and compact...They’re particularly helpful for staying organised on multi-stop trips too, and for keeping your hotel room tidy.”
• Bring two pairs of shoes, wearing your heaviest during travel. I do try to adhere to this advice, wearing trainers or boots on the flight and then bringing an alternate daytime pair. The exception is if I'm expecting to dress up, in which case I'll bring a third pair, an evening shoe.
• Purchase toiletries at your destination. This is one my mother always told me as a key travel tip! For me the exception is hair products, which I can't always find at my destination so I put them into smaller containers. “Toiletries can take up a lot of space, so we’d recommend purchasing the basics once you arrive at your destination. Higher priced toiletries, or personal skin care products, could be decanted into smaller travel sized pots. These will allow you to only take what you need.”
• Utilise your ‘personal item’ allowance as an extension of your carry on: When travelling with just a carry-on, I make sure to bring an additional tote designed to carry my laptop and my tablet, too, plus extra room for other must-haves that I want to keep handy, like medication, snacks and makeup for a pre-landing touch-up. "Before you travel, check your airline's policies on this to see how large a bag you can take. If you have additional clothes that don't fit in your case, try rolling instead of folding them and placing them at the bottom of your personal item bag to save space here too.”

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

Travel Bags

• Softsided Luggage
• Personalization

Keepall Bandoulière 45

Keepall Bandoulière 50

Summer Sale: UP TO 50% OFF Prices as Shown. Ends 7/8. Shop Now

It's time to upgrade your browser

Your current browser is no longer supported on llbean.com. Please upgrade to one of the following for a smoother, safer shopping experience with us:

MICROSOFT EDGE

Bags & Travel

SCHOOL BACKPACKS & LUNCH BOXES

HIKING BACKPACKS

EVERYDAY BAGS & TOTES

LUGGAGE & DUFFLE BAGS

TRAVEL ACCESSORIES

TOILETRY BAGS & ORGANIZERS

• Recommended
• Price: Low to High
• Price: High to Low
• Bestselling
• Customer Rating

Happy 80th, Boat and Tote!

Introduced in 1944 as Bean’s Ice Carrier, there’s still nothing that compares to our iconic tote.

See The Collection

The 14 Best Clear Bags Aren't Just For Concerts

Finally, stadium-compliant bags are chic.

Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

At first, I pegged these see-through bags as a throwback to ’90s raver culture. But in fact, venue security policies have given rise to an actual bag category. Aptly called “stadium bags,” they’re clear to prevent concertgoers from smuggling in weapons or other contraband past guards.

I’m all about accessory compliance, but I want to make it chic. To quote a lyric from Queen B herself: “Partner, let me upgrade you!” The following 14 clear bags can take your concert necessities to center stage.

Shop Our Favorite Clear Bags of 2024

Best Clear Crossbody

Tory burch mini miller clear crossbody bag.

Best Value Crossbody Bag

Hoxis clear zipper cross body bag.

Best Clear Mini Bag

Miu miu plexi vinyl mini crossbody bag.

Everyone who has this mini Tory Burch bag raves about its extremely functional design. The two zippers help you get in and out easily, and the smaller size makes it the go-to for concerts and sporting events. I love it for its fun colorblocking and ’80s preppy look.

This under-$50 crossbody bag has a lot going for it, from its ample but minimal body design to its steady, studded bottom. (Read: You can definitely set this down on the floor.)

This summer proved that pink is the new neutral, something that Miu Miu girls have known all along. This transparent pink, metallic-trimmed top handle gives you a Harajuku lunchbox look, plus a hands-free option with its crossbody chain.

Anya Hindmarch Little Pouch

When you want to carry the least but still want to look cute, Anya Hindmarch’s sunny yellow pouch is the clear winner. The best part? You can also throw it in your daily work bag to organize all the loose bits that get lost at the bottom.

Stoney Clover Lane Clear Curved Crossbody Bag

Why trust Harper’s Bazaar ?

For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion, beauty, and lifestyle resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in fashion by working with the world’s leading authorities in ready-to-wear, footwear, accessories, and more. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of editors and industry experts.

Aemilia Madden is a freelance writer, editor, and consultant with over 10 years of experience in the fashion industry. She’s written for publications including Vogue , Harper’s Bazaar , W , and Fashionista . Previously, she was the senior fashion editor at The Zoe Report . In her time away from the internet, Aemilia is probably out on a hike.

The Edit: Fashion

The Best Fisherman Sandals to Shop This Summer

The 17 Best Minimizer Bras From Lacy to Athletic

25 Sandals That You’ll Live In This Summer

The Most Comfortable Loafers to Slip On

The Best White Swimsuits for a Bridal Beach Moment

25 Cool Sneakers That Earn the Hype

Exactly What to Wear to a Beach Wedding

The 23 Best Supportive Bras for Large Breasts

15 Must-Have Flats to Wear All Day (and All Night)

15 Timeless Chain Bags

The Best Amazon Swimsuits for Vacation Season

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

• A Huge List of Sales: Tata Harper Tints and $50 Cold Picnic

A  lot  of very good sales started this week ahead of the Fourth of July.   A few of our writers put together guides on how to shop some of the best ones, including  Everlane’s summer sale ,  Girlfriend’s rare sitewide sale , and the mind-bogglingly good  sale at Zara . But there are many, many more, which I’ve rounded up in my guide to  the best Fourth of July sales .  And  Amazon officially launched its (very) early Prime Day deals this week. I’ve collected some of the best ones so far ,   and my fellow writers  Dominique Pariso  and  Amelia Jerden  have pulled their favorite  early deals under $50  and  early sleep deals , too. For my end-of-week wrapup, I picked out what I think are some of the best of these early sales below, and added in other excellent discounts I noticed popping up, like some rarely-on-sale Emeco and Kartell furniture. The stuff is still a bit pricey, though, so I also found some not-so-expensive bath linens and  bedding  from Cold Picnic, Piglet in Bed, and West Elm.

Sales in the beauty department were a bit light this week, but Net-a-Porter has some nice luxury beauty from Pat McGrath and Tata Harper at normal-people prices, and all of La Roche-Posay’s  sunscreens  are on sale at both Amazon and Ulta.

As always, make sure to sign up for our  email newsletter  for even more sales coverage — including extra deals each Friday hand-selected by yours truly.

Our favorite sunscreen serum has a thin texture that wears well under makeup without being oily on the skin.

For even more sun protection, this straw bucket hat is quite cute (and half off).

Lots of designer beauty up to 60 percent off at Net-a-Porter, but I’m most swayed by the cache of Pat McGrath makeup on sale.

This comes in three summery shades: berry red (pictured here), mauve, and bright pink.

Our most-recommended  dental floss is 20 percent off with the code COCOSUMMER. (It’s also a favorite of  Danielle Duboise ,  Chris Carrabba  of Dashboard Confessional, and several Strategist staffers.)

The epilator we’ve been raving about for years  (it makes your legs feel like they “have never even grown hair”) is $30 off right now. This version comes with a shaver head, three trimmer caps, and a bikini styler.

Never been a better time to get the bug-bite-suction doodad . It instantly soothes all manner of stings and bites.

And to keep mosquitoes away in the first place, writer  Kat Gillespie recommends the Thermacell in her best bug repellers roundup . It creates a 20-foot protective field — no smoke or flames required — that keeps bugs away for about five hours.

I just bought this $20 version, which covers a smaller zone (about 15 feet).

There’s a buy-more-save-more sale going on at Great Jones right now. Everything is 15 percent off; orders over $100 are 20 percent off; and orders over $200 are 25 percent off. I say grab this two-set of Great Jones’ best-selling nonstick sheet trays , which are bundled with two reusable baking mats for extra-easy cleanup.

In her guide to the best strollers , Strategist senior writer Liza Corsillo crowned the Ergobaby Metro+ Deluxe her favorite less-expensive option for city living. “I am able to quickly carry it up subway stairs with my son sitting in it,” she says.

The “It” pencils of my youth are very on sale, for kids who still take physical notes.

Zara’s summer sale is extremely good, and especially in the kids’ section. Kinda wish these rainbow sandals came in my size.

Corsillo just bought this adorable alphabet cap for her son.

There’s also lots of great kids’ clothing on sale at Hanna Andersson, like this breezy sundress — with pockets!

A very inexpensive rash guard for the kids who simply hate sunscreen.

Classic Hanna Andersson pajamas in a summer-friendly tee-and-shorts combo. There are plenty of patterns, from zoo animals to ice-cream cones.

And for adults: this organic-cotton muslin robe that’s a pretty close look-alike of Parachute’s (much more expensive) Cloud Cotton robe . It comes in four colors.

Girlfriend Collective hasn’t had a sale in a while, so I was delighted to see that full-priced items are 25 percent off and sale items are up to 70 percent off. I love the brand’s bike shorts, especially now that the seasonal shades — the one pictured here is Prism — are only $17. For even more finds, see Gillespie’s favorite picks from the sale .

This swishy dress from Eloquii — which comes in sizes 14 to 32 — is a great casual dress on extra-hot days, but it would also make a nice wedding-guest dress.

Everlane’s (really good) summer sale has a lot of office-appropriate dresses and tops, including this remarkably priced linen shirtdress.

I like that this linen shirt doesn’t button all the way down.

At Madewell, sale items are an extra 30 percent off with the code COOLDOWN — so now’s an excellent time to stock up on the brand’s best-in-class jeans for under $100.

I’m still very into the carpenter-pants-slash-shorts trend, especially at this price.

Our managing editor, Kelsie Schrader , just bought these front-pocket shorts, which she says are a nice length. (She’s five-two.)

Sustainable denim brand Warp + Weft’s Warehouse Sale recently started. Strangely, you can’t tell what the percentage off will be until checkout, but I added a bunch of stuff to my cart and found pretty much all the discounts to be steep. This ivory-and-blue stripy pattern is fun, and it’s also available as a structured vest and a baby-doll dress . (It also has pant sizes 00–14 .)

For best-in-class shapewear , you can’t go wrong with Spanx.

Strategist fashion writer Ambar Pardilla has been testing (and likes!) these pants.

Some shockingly cheap Salomons on sale at Nordstrom Rack.

Missoma makes some of our favorite stud earrings , and right now hundreds of earrings, necklaces, and even a few sunglasses are up to 50 percent off. Strategist senior editor Ailbhe Malone is eyeing these claw charm hoops.

Yes, you can swear scarves in the summer. ( The dress in this picture is on sale, too .)

A very good deal on a handcrafted Goodee tote. It’s nearly 60 percent off at Nordstrom in blue, black , and red .

And here’s a version for stripe savants. (I like this blue-and-red option , too.)

A tote for beach-hopping.

Cuyana is having a rare and rather good sale. This is the non-zippered version of Mya Gelber ’s top work tote pick, on sale in the color Biscuit.

I also like this cute alpaca-shaped keychain.

A promising-looking waterproof phone pouch that’ll be useful for warm-weather adventuring.

Early Amazon Prime Day deals are already live, and so far, the best discounts are on Amazon’s in-house products. Our tech writer, Jordan McMahon , tested Blink’s home-security system and was impressed with its simplicity. “For every component (doorbell, indoor camera, and outdoor camera) that I tested, setup was as easy as logging into the app, scanning a few QR codes, and putting the equipment in place,” he says.

Everything at P.F. Candle Co. is up to 30 percent off through July 3, and orders over $75 get free shipping. According to candle influencer Kudzi Chikumbu , the brand’s Black Fig candle is a very convincing dupe of Figuier from Diptyque .

The only sticks that my incense-averse boyfriend actually likes.

It’s officially lightweight-quilt season. I’m deeply interested in this heritage-y patchwork option from Ralph Lauren.

Cute floral sheets for a kid’s room.

Last week, I wrote about Piglet in Bed’s sale in our newsletter (reminder: sign up!), and plenty of stuff is still on sale. This hand towel makes me think of blackberry ice cream.

Another excellent bathroom deal: this cheerful bath mat from Cold Picnic for just $50.

And something a bit more classic.

I’ve been writing about mid-century-modern furniture and décor since 2017, so trust me when I say this: While 15 percent off isn’t a huge discount, it is about as good as you’ll get for Jasper Morrison–designed stuff.

Also a pretty good deal on Kartell’s iconic modular storage units.

But now I’m smitten with this cheery two-level unit!

Strategist writer Tembe Denton-Hurst attests that despite the steep price tag, this sculptural side table is worth the money. “It holds a ton of crap that can be hidden by simply turning it around, and despite having drinks left on top of it and all manner of liquids and creams spilled on it, it still looks virtually brand-new,” she writes.

Our home-design writer, Lauren Ro , is very into this pattern.

Our kitchen writer Emma Wartzman ’s favorite coasters are 40 percent off (and come in a rainbow of colors).

The Strategist  is designed to surface useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Every product is independently selected by our team of editors, whom you can read about  here . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

• the strategist
• friday sales

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

Deal of the Day

Micro sales, greatest hits, most viewed stories.

• The 18 Very Best Sunscreens for Your Face
• The 16 Very Best Protein Powders
• Irish Self-Tanners Do It Better
• What Kylie Kelce Can’t Live Without

Today’s Top Clicked