In case you were unaware, having the proper equipment is key to being an efficient traveler, so this is where the travel totes can be useful.
Although many of us prefer to bring a backpack on our travels, I believe this product (the tote) offers comparable or even better features due to its durability, spacious interior, and easy access to your belongings.
However, finding the perfect one can be challenging. So, before you embark on your next adventure, allow me to share with you a selection of high-quality tote bags, together with detailed information, so that you can find the perfect one for any trip.
Quick Takeaways
- With its sturdy construction and roomy storage space, the Madewell zip-top medium transport tote is the go-to bag for all your essentials.
- For days when you want to look trendy without spending a fortune, reach for the BAGGU duck bag canvas tote; it’s inexpensive, stylish, and incredibly practical.
- The Longchamp le pliage tote bag is the ideal choice if you need a classic vibe with the bonus of being foldable.
The Best Travel Tote Bags: Reviews & Tests
If you’re looking for a high-quality and stylish tote for your next vacation or any other occasion, the products below are the top choices available.
1. Madewell Zip-Top Medium Transport Tote
I must say, this bag has quickly become one of my go-to choices because it is lightweight, functional, attractive, durable, and spacious, and it is made of semi-vegetable-tanned leather that maintains its quality even after years of wear and tear.
Madewell Zip-Top Medium Transport Tote features a spacious front pocket and an inner pocket with a zipper, providing ample space for your smaller items.
It can easily accommodate snacks, books, and toiletries without appearing bulky. Additionally, the zip closure on top ensures that your belongings remain secure during transit.
Even though I only use it for day trips, it can easily be paired with a suitcase for longer excursions. I typically refrain from using it during rainy weather to prevent any damage to the leather.
| What I Liked | What I Didn’t Like |
|---|---|
| Very durable | Limited colors |
| Easy-to-clean material | |
| Spacious capacity |
2. BAGGU Duck Bag Canvas Tote
For the last eight years, I have relied on this fantastic product as one of my primary travel bags, whether for shorter weekend excursions or longer vacations.
Considering its large (tall) size, it holds a lot but stays close to your body, making it great for navigating crowds. It’s also surprisingly affordable. You can fit a 15-inch MacBook inside, along with your workout gear, and there’s a zippered pocket on the inside for safekeeping your valuables.
This bag is available in a plethora of chic colors and patterns, too, including bold chartreuse gingham and understated dark khaki for those who prefer a more understated look. Plus, it’s machine washable and crafted from eco-friendly materials (recycled cotton, to be exact), so you can wash it whenever you like.
You can easily go from the office to brunch on the weekends thanks to the sleek design and it is perfect for female travelers. You have the option to wear it crossbody for added convenience or grab it by the top handle, depending on your preference.
| What I Liked | What I Didn’t Like |
|---|---|
| Stylish and elegant design | Not ideal for male travelers |
| Affordable | |
| Very spacious | |
| Lots of colors |
3. Longchamp Le Pliage Tote
I am here to proclaim my undying love for this product as an adaptable, reasonably priced travel bag.
This Longchamp Le Pliage Tote is an excellent pick if you’re shopping for a high-end travel bag. It has been in the fashion industry for decades for good reasons: it is both fashionable and functional, accommodating all of your essentials for a trip.
Also, this product is perfect for any travel, from weekend getaways to long-term adventures, thanks to its lightweight, water-resistant, and easy-to-clean material.
In addition to a large main compartment that can accommodate a laptop, clothes, and toiletries, there is a smaller interior pocket that can help you keep your valuables organized and secure.
And yes, you can also fold it up and store it in your suitcase until you’re ready to use it.
| What I Liked | What I Didn’t Like |
|---|---|
| Durable | A little bit smaller |
| Easy to clean | |
| Foldable | |
| Lightweight | |
| Top zip closure |
4. BAGGU Reusable Shopping Bag
I can’t stress enough how often I receive compliments on this bag whenever I travel with it.
BAGGU Ripstop Nylon Tote is perfect for transporting items that you may not want to keep in your purse, such as fresh produce, sandy beach gear, or dirty running shoes.
It is machine washable, lightweight, and can even be folded up into an accompanying carrying pouch, making it incredibly convenient to bring along in your car or suitcase.
This tote is known for its exceptional durability. It is constructed from durable cotton canvas, designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. Likewise, its reinforced handles and bottom provide added strength, making it convenient for carrying heavy loads.
With its long-lasting quality, you can rely on this item for years to come.
Additionally, the BAGGU Ripstop Nylon Tote is fully lined on the inside, ensuring that spills or messes won’t be a concern. You can personalize it with your name or initials, guaranteeing that it will always be easily identifiable as yours.
| What I Liked | What I Didn’t Like |
|---|---|
| Versatile | The straps slide down your shoulder |
| Simple design | |
| Lightweight |
5. Jeelow Small Canvas Tote
Jeelow Small Canvas Tote is a great option if you want a bag that is more sophisticated than your average tote, made of real materials, and will last for decades with the right care.
The ideal travel companion for any trip, thanks to its roomy interior, multiple uses, and snug fit under your seat. While the main compartment is spacious enough to accommodate your laptop, books, and clothing, among other travel necessities, you can keep your phone, passport, and other small items organized with the six exterior pockets and the interior zip pocket.
Whenever it’s not in use, you can fold this tote up and store it in its pouch thanks to its detachable crossbody strap. Plus, the Jeelow Small Canvas Tote’s water-resistant nylon construction and featherweight design make it perfect for any journey.
I should also mention that it is very fashionable, so you can get it in a wide range of colors and patterns to complement your outfit.
| What I Liked | What I Didn’t Like |
|---|---|
| Lightweight | It has a weird synthetic smell |
| Spacious compartment | |
| Simple and stylish design | |
| Machine washable |
6. BAGAIL Clear Tote Bag
This BAGAIL Clear Tote Bag is the most famous in the world.
For those occasions when you need a bag that is both transparent and practical, like stadium events or travel, the BAGAIL Clear Tote Bag is a great pick.
I am really satisfied with the quality and usefulness of this bag. First things first, the size. This tote is basically just one big pocket, but it has enough space for a digital camera, a mini laptop, a water bottle, a wallet, keys, a cell phone, a hat, sunglasses, and more—so it’s ideal for vacations when you don’t want to carry around too much.
You can choose between pink, black, or cream color options. It has a sturdy construction, an easy-to-use zipper closure, and removable straps that allow you to wear it as a crossbody or tote.
Also, the straps and the rest of the bag are nylon leather, making it even more comfortable to carry. Not only is it machine washable, but you can personalize it with a monogram to make it truly unique.
| What I Liked | What I Didn’t Like |
|---|---|
| Stylish | No additional compartment |
| Very sturdy | |
| Budget-friendly |
7. Lavie Women’s Purse Handbag
So why be boring when you can be fashionable and dazzling? The attractive and practical Lavie Women’s Betula Tote Bag is the one I’m referring to.
It features a large main compartment with several multi-function spaces inside, where you can keep your clothes, phone, books, hairbrush, wallet, sunglasses, and anything else you can think of.
The main compartment’s two pockets—one with a zipper and one with slip pockets—also provide additional space for organizing your belongings.
This purse has a well-stitched inner lining for convenience and organization, and it is crafted from high-quality, supple materials. I should also mention that it is ideal for daily use due to its sleek and fashionable design.
This Betula Tote Bag will be the cherry on top of your outfit, whether you’re running errands or hitting the town. So, if you add this amazing bag to your wardrobe right now, you will have the most amazing vacation ever.
| What I Liked | What I Didn’t Like |
|---|---|
| Sturdy | Expensive |
| Lightweight | |
| Stylish design |
8. Carhartt Legacy Women’s Tote
Considering the price, I was pleasantly surprised by the product’s quality.
The leather is very soft, and I am in love with the bag’s numerous pockets; they’re perfect for storing my laptop, notebooks, pens, makeup, water bottle, and a plethora of other travel necessities.
It comes in two simple colors and features two exterior pockets: one with a zipper closure for the main compartment and another with a long divider. With the Carhartt Legacy Women’s Tote, you will always have extra space and convenience on your next trip.
| What I Liked | What I Didn’t Like |
|---|---|
| Has several interior pockets | Has a strong scent |
| Zip-top closure | |
| Includes crossbody strap | |
| Spacious |
9. Kattee Vintage Leather Tote Bag
Since I got this tote bag, I have yet to go on a business trip, vacation, or take a plane without it. I love the Kattee Vintage Tote because of its beautiful design, high-quality leather, and roomy size and can be changed into different shapes, which makes it easy for me to carry around.
It has two ends that can be folded in and held together with a magnet and this makes it smaller and easier to use every day. The bag can be carried in different ways thanks to the top handle and shoulder straps.
There is a lot of room inside for your clothes, laptops, notebooks, sweaters, and other things. Mind you, you can also put small items in the pouch that comes with it, which can be taken off and put on.
It doesn’t feel heavy, even though it’s made of thick leather, which is a big plus.
| What I Liked | What I Didn’t Like |
|---|---|
| Lightweight | The smell might irritate you |
| Spacious | |
| Adjustable shoulder straps | |
| Made of high-quality material | |
| Lots of colors |
Essential Tips for Buying a High-quality Travel Tote Bag
In order to buy a good tote bag for your next travel, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Buy it for the specified purpose
It is important to purchase a tote bag that suits your needs, as not all bags are ideal for specific kinds of travel. For trips to rainy or damp locations, it’s best to bring a sturdy tote bag made of water-resistant or resistant materials, such as nylon or polyester.
Even though leather totes are great for the office or long flights, you should probably bring a canvas tote to the beach or camping because it will last much longer and be more durable.
Consider organization and size
For example, if you’re taking a flight, it’s a good idea to check the dimensions, organization, and any useful features, such as belt loops, USB ports, and trolley sleeves. Tote bags are great for carrying large items when going on outdoor adventures like camping or trips to the beach.
Packable or foldable tote bags are great for frequent travelers who need an extra bag to throw in their carry-on or suitcase. However, they may not be the best choice for everyday commuting or flying due to their lack of structure and organization.
Prioritize your comfort
Suppose you plan on carrying your tote bag for extended periods (like when you’re at the airport or out and about); it’s a good idea to find one made of lightweight material with padded straps to alleviate some of the strain.
Be sure to search for totes with modular designs or trolley sleeves to attach the bag to a suitcase if you desire improved portability and versatility. Additionally, some totes include convertible straps that allow you to carry the bag as a crossbody or backpack.
Cleaning
No matter the material of your tote, before washing it, be sure to read the care tag. You should not soak or wipe most tote bags; instead, have them professionally cleaned. (On the other hand, a leather conditioner might work for minor scuffs.)
Totes made of cotton or nylon are typically machine or hand-washable with a mild detergent and require little maintenance.
Final Thoughts
With their roomy interiors and long-lasting construction, the totes I listed above are perfect for any trip—business or pleasure and will keep your belongings organized and in style while you’re on the road.
For all the options out there, my personal favorite is the BAGGU Duck Bag Canvas Tote. It has been with me on countless adventures, keeping all my belongings safe and within easy reach, and it has several pockets for all your organizing needs.
