best luxury travel tote with zipper

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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.

Best Eco-Friendly Travel Tote Bag

Dagne dover daily tote.

Best Small Travel Tote Bag

Monos metro tote.

Best Travel Tote Bag That Can Double as Luggage

Solgaard voyager weekender.

Best Budget Travel Tote Bag

Open story signature weekender bag.

Best Luxury Travel Tote Bag

Rimowa never still vertical tote.

Best Designer Travel Tote Bag

Bottega veneta medium andiamo.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.”

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.

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. 

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

Pack your bags.

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.

• What To Look For

Why Trust Byrdie

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.

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

FASHION , Handbags , Travel Accessories

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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?

Baggallini Avenue Tote

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!

Tumi Voyageur Everyday Nylon Tote

Tumi Voyageur Everyday Nylon Tote Bag

The Tumi Everyday  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 !

Longchamp Tote Bag

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 Adel 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 Day Tote

Lo & Sons Deluxe Personal Carry On Totes

One of the best totes for travel as voted by readers is the Catalina Day 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 personal carryon item, a sightseeing bag, or even a beach tote by removing the bottom compartment to have more room to put essentials. Though it doesn’t have a trolley sleeve, it instead has two outside pockets. 

If you wanted something with a trolley sleeve, you might want to go for the Catalina Deluxe Tote which is a little bigger 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.

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

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

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The 25 Best Designer Tote Bags You’ll Never Stop Carrying

They’re worth the investment

The best designer tote bags shouldn’t be reserved for special occasions. Luxury designs are so special because they’re the most elevated versions of totes we can carry all the time—instead of hiding them away in a dust bag.

“Worth the investment” can mean different things in different wardrobes. Most experts I spoke to agreed the best designer totes combine function and style—and aren’t necessarily the bags you’ve seen all over TikTok. Rachel Glicksberg , manager of women’s fashion and new initiatives at the RealReal, says “classic” bags always outperform trendier styles. “Always consider something classic that you will use day, night, and while traveling,” agrees Tiffany Hsu , fashion director at Mytheresa. If you’re new to luxury accessories, she says, “a durable, leather option would be a great first designer tote.”

Selecting your personal best designer tote from the hundreds of Chanels, Bottegas, and Pradas out there comes down to your lifestyle. If you’re searching for a laptop bag , seek out a spacious silhouette by Tory Burch or Cuyana, with separate compartments for your office essentials. If you’re elevating your everyday handbag, smaller totes by Gucci or Saint Laurent might be more suitable. And if you want something that’s more about personal style than pure function? Consider the unique shapes and textures from upstarts like DeMellier and W 78 St, as well as classics by Hermès and Chanel.

Whether you’re more of a minimalist seeking a structured leather tote or an It bag collector hunting for the best designer bags , the most worthwhile option is the one you’ll actually use. Ahead, I’ve gathered the 25 best designer totes I’ve tested and researched with expert assistance—all of which are worth carrying for years.

The Best Designer Tote Bags for 2024

Best Work Tote Bag

Demellier the new york bag.

Best Mini Tote Bag

Gucci diana mini tote bag.

Best Adjustable Tote Bag

W 78 st the jolie bag.

Best Bucket Tote Bag

Aesther ekme green lune tote.

Best Wide Tote Bag

Polène numero douze bag.

Best Top-Handle Designer Tote Bag

Ferragamo tote bag.

Best Packable Designer Tote Bag

Longchamp le pliage original l tote bag.

Best Quiet Luxury Tote Bag

Hunting season textured-leather tote.

Best Statement Tote Bag

Chanel 22 large backpack.

Best Straw Designer Tote Bag

Nili lotan lucille straw tote.

Acquiring DeMellier’s New York bag is almost like joining a very stylish secret society—one made up of editors, designers, publicists, and other creatives who carry the exact same tote. It’s structured and spacious, like any worthwhile tote bag, with a rounded handle that comfortably sits over the shoulder. The croc embossed suede gives off an “I mean business” energy I always want to exude when I’ve got a lot going on at work.

Colors: Black croc, off-white, black, tan suede, olive

Materials: Leather, cotton, hardware

What teeny-tiny totes lack in storage, they make up for in panache. Gucci’s Diana tote (named for the late Princess of Wales) expertly contrasts whimsical shades of leather with a polished bamboo handle and a removable crossbody strap. Carry this when you’re spending an entire day out and need only your essentials—or sling it over a larger neutral tote for contrast.

Colors: Pink, white, green, beige

Materials: Leather, bamboo

Forget what you thought you knew about functional tote bags. W 78 St’s Jolie proves designs that work hard can look effortlessly cool. Inside the spacious, angular compartment—crafted from dyed calf hair and leather—you’ll find that the leather straps can adjust to three different drop lengths for your preferred way to carry.

Colors: Burgundy

Materials: Leather, calf hair

I’ve always wanted the curve of a moon bag with the dimensions of a market bag. And Danish designer Aesther Ekme delivered with this sleek, single-strap tote. While it has the volume to carry an iPad, sunglasses, and a hefty designer wallet, nothing about its smooth leather or evergreen shade feels heavy or overly utilitarian.

Colors: Green

Materials: Leather

Once you join the Polène bag fandom, you don’t look back. Let this tote bag be your starter, complete with a zippered pouch, equestrian contrasting stitching, and a wide silhouette that can fold inward for a more rounded look (versatility!).

Colors: Cognac, black, oyster, beige canvas, and more

Ferragamo’s new twist on the leather tote was first presented on its menswear runway—but it’s a fit for anyone and everyone. You’ll find enough space for a weekend’s worth of clothing or your daily commute inside its artfully constructed, star-shaped compartment. While I personally gravitate toward Ferragamo’s trademark red, there are several other shades to try, from neutral classics to seasonal color trends.

Colors: Red, yellow, midnight blue, black, terracotta, camel

Materials: Calfskin

Some shoppers are discovering Longchamp’s fold-up canvas totes for the first time this year. Others have a sizable collection folded up in their closets (it’s me, hi). It doesn’t matter how long you’ve been in the know, as long as you recognize why they’re an enduring classic. Each Le Pliage tote offers seemingly bottomless storage potential without losing its polished look. And when you want to try out another bag, this one easily folds into a small square for storage. I’ve used mine as everything from an airline carry-on to a tote for dance classes.

Colors: Black, paper, navy, cobalt, grenadine, and more

Materials: Leather, recycled canvas

Hunting Season’s understated bags are my top recommendation when my group chat is looking for quiet luxury bag brands. The dark brown shade, topstitching details, and belt-inspired strap are timeless, but not basic. (And yes, it can fit a small laptop.)

Colors: Dark brown, tan

From the moment Chanel unveiled its tote/backpack hybrid, Bazaar editors sensed it would be an all-time favorite. Having carried it for months now, those who have it are enamored with its balance of utility and elegance—and those who don’t own one yet have it at the top of their wish lists. (Hint, hint.)

While this bag can chicly store a laptop and smaller necessities on its own, Enamorado says it’s best styled with a second bag. “I love doubling mine up with a smaller crossbody bag for easier access to the essential phone and wallet, and to be able to transition to after work events,” he says.

Color: Black

Materials: Leather, hardware

Straw tote bags never feel old or outdated. Nili Lotan’s handwoven take has a sturdy base to stand up on its own, plus a zippered internal pocket for separating cash and keys from sandy beach essentials. The clean, minimal design can also work as a summer-centric work tote.

Colors: Black/straw

Materials: Palm leaves, leather

Prada Large Symbole Embroidered Fabric Handbag

If I had my way, I’d devote at least half my closet to Prada totes. Narrowing down the shelves of nylon purses and heritage styles like the Cleo bag to just one pick, this top-handle tote is it. The pattern cleverly plays with Prada’s triangle logo, plus it’s easy to carry and has all the space any true everyday bag needs.

Colors: Beige/black

Materials: Canvas

Cuyana Classic Easy Tote

On work days, this Cuyana tote comfortably fits my corporate-issued laptop, a water bottle, a book for the train, and a packed lunch (when I remember it). I’m most drawn to how clean and simple it is—I can carry it with pretty much anything.

Colors: Stone, dark olive, black, caramel, and more

What reviewers are saying: “My new favorite tote. It is beautifully made, plenty of room for all essentials but best of all, light weight. Love!”

The Row Margaux 17 Tote

Mytheresa’s Hsu calls this style from the Row “an amazing option” if your designer tote search starts with suede. “Soft, big bags are definitely a trend that consumers are always interested in,” she explains. “We have seen these softer totes in luxurious suede materials and neutral colorways recently increase in popularity.” All versions include a detachable shoulder strap and an interior card slot.

Colors: Black

Materials: Suede

Hereu Calella Bicolor Organic Cotton Tote Bag

Hereu’s bags are so striking, a Bazaar editor stopped a woman carrying one at New York Fashion Week to ask where she’d found it. It’s all thanks to that leather trim and geometric shape. The details inside live up to the street-style first impression. Within, you’ll find a spacious interior with a leashed zip pouch for extra organization.

Colors: Black/beige

Materials: Canvas, leather

Loewe Puzzle Fold Tote

Loewe reimagined its Puzzle top handle handbag as a larger tote with instantly shoppable results. The triangular sections aren’t just for show—they allow the bag to fold in on itself for effortless storage (or a Fashion Week party trick). Choose between four two-tone variations or two classic neutrals .

Colors: White/beige, warm desert/black, vivid orange/burgundy, pearl gray/dark gray, brown, black

Bottega Veneta Andiamo Medium Intrecciato Leather Tote

Bottega Veneta’s intrecciato leather weave is just as recognizable as a logo, yet elegantly reserved. There’s an interpretation for every mood and wardrobe, but I’m partial to the Andiamo line, with its exaggerated proportions and knotted hardware details. (Jacob Elordi, king of the designer handbag, is also a fan.) On days when you have less to carry, the mini East-West version has your name written all over it.

Colors: Gray, yellow, black Materials: Leather, hardware

Mansur Gavriel Everyday Soft Tote

This understated leather tote bag is a must when storage is your top priority. It’s one of the roomiest bags on my list, fitting a 16-inch laptop with plenty of space to spare. Inside, you’ll also find a coordinating leather pouch that can double as a wallet or compartment for your keys, AirPods, or other small essentials.

Colors: Camel, sand, pine, black/flamma

What reviewers are saying: “It is large and spacious but has a great shapes that holds up well and doesn’t look massive even on a small person. Color and leather quality are lovely, very characteristic of MG bags.”

Brandon Blackwood Bamboo B Tote

Embellished, but not over-the-top: Brandon Blackwood’s signature boxy tote is a lesson in balance. The double handles add a ladylike quality, whether you carry it with a jeans-and-tee outfit or a slinky black-tie gown . There’s also a removable strap for easy crossbody carrying.

Colors: Black/silver, black/gold

Shinola The Runwell Shoulder Bag

There are people who are satisfied with a single, do-it-all tote bag, and there are people who need a tote for every season and situation. Anyone who self-identifies with the second camp needs a shearling après-ski bag (even if they haven’t realized it yet).

Colors: Black, white

Materials: Leather, shearling

What reviewers are saying: “Fantastic bag!”

Telfar Medium Shopping Bag

Telfar bag drops are, like the weather and the whims of the Fashion Week calendar, unpredictable. But if you can participate in the label’s rare “bag security” sales or find the color of your choosing on a site like Rebag, you walk away with a sturdy, spacious tote that possesses an inherent cool factor.

Colors: Brown, blue, green, pink, red, and more

Materials: Faux leather

Halie LeSavage is the fashion commerce editor at Harper's BAZAAR . Her style reporting covers everything from reviewing the best designer products to profiling emerging brands and designers. Previously, she was the founding retail writer at Morning Brew and a fashion associate at Glamour .

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16 best tote bags for travel: luxurious, sustainable, and versatile picks our editors love

By Kristi Kellogg , Paris Wilson and Lauren Burvill

Totes are one of the most essential travel items you can own — the best tote bags are endlessly versatile and tend to have room for everything you could need while in transit. For some travellers, a sturdy leather tote is a no-brainer essential for taking on a long flight : It's bigger than most bags, so you can more easily fit a laptop, water bottle, and all other plane accessories inside. For others, an easy-to-fold cotton option might be the item you break out mid-trip for a visit to the beach or marketplace. Parents will also attest a travel tote is a must when flying with a baby – the multitude of pockets ensures a toy or snack can be grabbed quickly to avoid any mid-flight meltdowns.

Whatever your style, a tote bag you love is a must-have piece of carry-on luggage , and we're here to help you find the right one. Below, we've pulled together the best tote bags to travel with — from value buys to investment bags you'll get compliments on for years to come.

Antler's tote is light on features – there's no internal pockets here, and it doesn't zip up at the top – but what it lacks in pockets, it makes up for in size. This is one of the roomiest totes in our round up, and the canvas material means it folds up small, ready to pack in your suitcase to house all your travel essentials. Beach towels? Chuck ‘em in. Spare outfit? Absolutely. It’ll even fit an 18" laptop, should you need. The modest price tag is a sweetener, too.

Dickies' unisex quilted tote is a favourite of our editors, being the go-to for our social media manager, Lucy Bruton, who rates its sturdiness (thanks to the tough nylon material) and handy inner pocket. It has a relaxed, oversized fit that's roomy enough for all the day's gear, and an outer bottle pocket claws back extra space and keeps your water close to hand.

There's lots to like about this Beis tote: it's made from recycled plastic, comes in four shades that match the brand's luggage range, and it can be worn two different ways thanks to the removable crossbody strap. Inside, there's plenty of dedicated space for all your essentials: a laptop sleeve, mobile phone pocket, key leash and a water bottle holder. All that, and it looks effortlessly chic, too, in keeping with Beis's signature minimal styling we know and love. This is one of the roomiest totes the brand offers, so it's a good choice for travellers – comfortably fitting a spare change of clothes or your in-flight essentials.

For everything you want in a tote, this smart Bellroy style hits all the marks. The streamlined bag is light to carry, while there's plenty of packing space and pockets to keep everything neat and organised. The main compartment can be fully zipped up and contains a laptop sleeve, two pockets for bottles and umbrellas, as well as smaller mesh pockets for valuables. The external pocket features a place for a phone, two pens, a passport and other travel essentials. The water-resistant, woven material folds up easily too, making this space saver a travel essential.

It’s easy to see why this travel tote bag is a best seller and often sold out. Firstly the size – the large tote has room for 22 litres, plenty of space for packing a whole weekend’s worth of items. When testing it, I managed to comfortably fit four different packing cubes of clothes inside, as well as a wash bag. Then there are the organisation options – a dedicated laptop sleeve, a drink bottle holder, a pocket for a phone and wallet, as well as a zip-up pocket ideal for storing a passport. There are two external pockets, one that’s hidden and secured with a magnet, as well as a sleeve to slip over a luggage handle, so it can easily sit safely on top of a suitcase. The bag is made from a light machine-washable cotton canvas and comes in natural, navy and black, as well as a small size option.

Editor's review: “I've travelled with this tote a couple of times, using it as my underseat bag on easyJet flights. As a mum of a two-year-old it's perfect for storing all of the things you need easy access to – there's plenty of room and dedicated pockets for toys, snacks, a tablet, and a water bottle. It's also large enough that it can fit a travel potty. When I'm travelling by myself, I can fit multiple outfits and a pair of shoes in very easily by using packing cubes. I have the natural colour and really love how stylish it looks too, and am surprised the light colour has remained stain-free despite throwing it about during my travels,” Lauren Burvill, commerce editor.

The Book Tote is a Dior classic, and the only bag fashion editors travel with . First imagined by Marc Bohan in the 1960s, it was part of the late creative director’s mid-century defining aesthetic that also saw the creation of the now synonymous Oblique monogram. Our Fashion Editor Charlotte Davey recently travelled with the cult bag to see if it lived up to the hype and found that it was incredibly versatile, sturdy and an ideal size for travel.

Editor's review: "For the airport, it sits neatly atop a  suitcase , its handles perfect for being looped around a  carry-on  handgrip, and it can be neatly packed with all your airport essentials. It was also really handy for  travelling with a child . All those extra bits and pieces (bottles, snacks, toys, books, etc) can be thrown in before boarding without repacking nappy bags or ensuring you have everything ready for take off. There’s just one central compartment, so you can instantly see (and find) everything. It fits seamlessly underneath a seat – everything you need in flight is right there at the reach of a baby-laden arm," Charlotte Davey, fashion editor

Some of the best tote bags serve as a solid backup when you don't want to use your everyday purse or backpack. This minimalist leather and nylon tote from Longchamp comes in several neutral colours. Since it's water-resistant, it's a great bag to bring along if you suspect inclement weather. But the best part about this bag? You can fold it up into a tiny square and snap it closed, making it an easy choice to toss into your checked luggage.

Renowned French brand Delsey made this tote with travellers who love to shop in mind. It can easily be folded up in your suitcase or carry-on, so won’t have to limit the number of souvenirs you bring back. Made from recycled water bottles and vegan leather, this bag will come with you on holidays for years to come.

This capacious cotton canvas tote bag folds up with ease, which is essential when you're packing it up for a trip. The interior has three storage compartments, and a full zipper to secure all your odds and ends. It's plenty big enough for a laptop, so you can also use it as a work tote if you like. Shop the bag in black, beige, seafoam green, blue shadow, and more.

This is truly a case of “I didn’t find the bag, the bag found me.” It first showed up on my Pinterest feed ages ago, and I adored it every time it appeared. I finally caved, justifying my need to upgrade my work bag from a faded, coffee-stained canvas tote to something chicer. This tote is quite large, but it moulds perfectly into my side as I commute to and from the office. The fun checkered pattern matches everything I wear, and I receive compliments on the daily. I especially love the matching zip pouch that comes with every bag — it’s easily removable, and I’ve been using it as a place for all of my essentials that I can easily throw into other bags. The only problem with the tote is that it doesn’t have any closures, so you have to be mindful of spillage. Mercedes Bleth, global associate director, social

There are a lot of MZ Wallace fans in the Traveller office — we can't get enough of the brand's quilted bags. One of our favourites is the Metro tote, which is arguably the chicest bag you'll find in a lightweight nylon. It's nice and roomy, meaning you can fit all your essentials including a laptop inside, plus it has a smart zipper along the top so your belongings won't fall out in the overhead bin or backseat. For the most type-A among us, there are six interior pockets, plus a phone pocket and key ring strap to stay organised. Best of all, the bag — which is offered in over a dozen colours and prints, like magnet grey and peony pearl — can fold up into a little pouch when you don't need it.

Looking for an investment tote to splurge on? As far as designer tote bags go, we highly recommend this leather tote from Gucci. The subdued shades of the brand's signature hues create a statement piece that will last season after season. It’s got a roomy interior lined with suede-like microfiber, a duo of leather handles, and comes with a matching pouch for storing smaller items.

There is little hesitation when choosing this Christian Louboutin tote bag. Its 12" x 19" dimensions mean you don’t have to sacrifice any of your essentials. The bottom of the bag is made of rubber so you can have some peace of mind when you inevitably need to place it on the floor, in the back of the car, or underneath the seat in front of you on a plane. And with a small wristlet attached, you can keep necessities close if you choose to throw the tote in an overhead bin.

A more subdued version of the classic Louis Vuitton monogram, the OnThe Go tote adds a chic, sleek spin to any travel outfit. The Twin Toron top handles and two shoulder straps offer extra versatility and comfort.

Say hello to your new business trip tote. This elegant bag is made of leather with a fully lined interior. There are two open compartments and one zip compartment. And if you're looking for both function and form, know that the contrasting luggage tag is an eye-catching addition. Shop the tote in black, tan, grey heron, calendula, shell pink, and brilliant red. (And, if you prefer a more petite bag, the Perry tote comes in a smaller version, as well.)

With the option of being carried as a backpack or tote, the Borealis tote is a go-to for outdoor adventures. The interior houses a laptop sleeve while the exterior offers two deep water bottle pockets; store drinks, umbrellas, or even a small tripod in there. The durable, water-repellent finish seals the deal for this tote.

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Fly High With These Travel Tote Bags For Women

Travelling away. Toting around.

by Emma Treagus Updated on November 7, 2023

At Luxe Digital, we independently research, review, and recommend products we love and that we think you will love, too. Learn more about how we curate the best products for you .

No matter where you’re going, there is no denying that your travel companion can weigh heavily on your journey. 

Pick the wrong travel companion and you’ll be left with mental baggage rather than a suitcase full of beautiful memories. 

And because we know we all want the latest, our wanderlust wisdom is simple: pick the right luggage. 

Easier dreamt than found—especially when bearing your destination and distinct vacation specifications in mind. 

Take it from a frequent flyer myself; totes (paired with my favorite designer luggage ) are one of the best travel bags out there to carry your world around .

Stylish and stress-reducing, the best travel tote bags are designed for sailing through airport security and breezing through boarding. From luggage sleeves to zipped pockets and padded straps, our favorite totes are the tote-al (sorry I had to) package when it comes to travel. They are spacious when packing, convenient to transport, and double up as a fashionable everyday carry when you arrive at your destination. 

Lucky for you, we’ve unpacked a tried-and-tested list of travel companions worthy of hanging with. Because if you are like us, you know there’s no room on the itinerary for bad companionship.

Ready to set up your OOO auto-reply? We tote-ally are.

Why you can trust Luxe Digital? As travel enthusiasts and frequent flyers ourselves, we know a thing or two about luxury travel (Hint, hint: journey through our sister site Luxa Terra for luxury travel inspiration). All year long, we rigorously test and review elevated essentials, and go the extra mile to unearth gateway-ready gears that go the distance and brands that we believe will go places.

See how we test products and learn more about our HAPPY philosophy (read: Honorable Craftsmanship, Aesthetic Design, Positive Impact—on People and the Planet, Purpose and Function, and Yielding Value) for buying luxuries. You can also read our travel tote buying guide to learn more about our methodology to pick the best ones.

The 11 best travel totes for women

Kaai helix travel edition: overall best travel tote for women.

Our rating:

• Organized interior
• Zip closure for peace of mind
• Reinforced handles for extra durability
• Metal feet to protect the bottom of the bag
• We would appreciate a luggage sleeve on the larger version of the tote

Our verdict:

Unbelievably organized, durable and stylish, the KAAI Helix is the ultimate travel tote for women. We love that the Travel Edition of the Helix comes with a hidden luggage sleeve for longer hauls.

Handcrafted in Italy from premium leather, KAAI bags are a masterclass in modern minimalism. Featuring clean lines and plenty of pockets, the midi-sized Helix tote is the perfect travel companion. The laptop sleeve is able to hold a 13” (there is a larger version that can hold a 15.6” laptop). And the outer phone pocket makes all the difference when you receive a call mid-boarding (yep, no more distressed scrabbling and sideward stares.)

We also love that the travel tote has five metal feet at the bottom. And whilst this may seem like an insignificant detail to some, when your bag stands still on a moving train and hops off scuff-free, it’s a detail we’re now looking for in all of our bags. 

For more on this fashionably functional tote , see our full KAAI Helix review . 

Rimowa Never Still: Best luxury travel tote bag

• Canvas and full-grain leather silhouette is extremely durable
• Double handle system allows you to choose whether to carry it as a tote or shoulder bag
• Luggage sleeve makes it easy to roll through the airport handsfree
• High price tags

If you’re looking for the creme de la creme of luxury travel totes, you don’t get much better than Rimowa’s Never Still tote. Yes, it’s more expensive than most, but if you travel a lot, we think the timeless, durable silhouette is worth it.

Unpacked in our Rimowa Never Still review , we are massive fans of the brand’s illustrious line, with the Never Still tote featured as one of our most recommended purchases. Why we love it? Made from durable materials such as canvas and premium leather, the black, sleek silhouette is equally timeless, making it a true investment into a life in motion. 

As one of our best tote bags for travel, the roomy main compartment is beautifully organized with a laptop sleeve big enough for a 15” laptop and a convenient removable zippered sleeve. And we also love that the double handle system means that you can carry it as a tote or crossbody. Or our most preferred method—slipping this luxurious travel tote onto your luggage using the handy (or handless) luggage sleeve. 

Bellroy Tokyo Tote: Best value women’s travel tote

• Made from water-resistant, recycled fabric
• Zip closure for added security
• Padded straps make it comfortable on the shoulders
• It also comes in a bigger size for the not-so-light packers
• The straps are too short to convert to a crossbody
• No luggage sleeve means you have to carry it around the airport

If you aren’t a frequent traveler and just want something that gets the job done without costing the earth, this Bellroy Tokyo tote is excellent value. Plus, it also makes an excellent everyday tote so you’re guaranteed to get ample use out of it.

If you’re familiar with our best tote bags for women , you’ll know our affiliation with Bellroy and the Tokyo Tote in particular. And while it remains one of the best utility totes for everyday use—from college strolls to office commutes to beach days—it also deserves to be mentioned as one of the best travel tote bags out there. 

With plenty of padded pockets, including one big enough for a 13” laptop, one perfectly suited to a water bottle and even one big enough for a change of shoes (a travel essential), this compartmentalized tote is the ultimate travel companion. The only thing missing is a luggage sleeve, but the padded shoulder straps and lightweight materials make this travel tote incredibly comfortable to carry. And for only $119, that’s a price we’re willing to pay for seamless airport trips. 

Away Travel: Best packable travel tote for women

• The foldable, lightweight, compact silhouette is easy to pack and takes up no space
• Made from water-resistant nylon, keeping your contents dry
• The trolley sleeve slips over your luggage for seamless airport trips
• The design is more functional than fashionable
• No laptop sleeve

It may not be the most fashionable travel totes on the market, but it has to be one of the most functional. Lightweight, foldable and compact, it fits effortlessly into a suitcase. The luggage sleeve makes it equally easy to roll through the airport. And the water-resistant silhouette makes it a must-have for coastal getaways and pool resorts.

Okay, so this tote isn’t turning the heads of stylists and it-girls, but we simply cannot get enough of how functional this packable carryall is. In fact, after one trip, we’re sure that we’ll never be able to travel without it again. Initially, we were attracted to how small it was once folded. And whilst we were unsure of how much we would use it on the coast, it was compact and lightweight enough to pack in anyway. 

When it came to utility on the trip, we were completely wrong. We used it most days—from laundry to groceries to wet beach towels. The large, nylon silhouette is incredibly durable and water resistant with one or two pockets, so it really does tick all the boxes. If you’re like us and usually return from vacation with more than you brought, look no further than this high-performing tote . Oh, and make the most of that lifesaving (read: back-saving) luggage sleeve. 

Lululemon City Adventurer: Best expandable travel tote bag

• Spacious compartments with an expanded volume of 27L
• Water-resistant fabric
• Trolley sleeve
• Nylon silhouette is less structured than other fabrics

If you’re looking for a travel tote that is large enough to double up as a gym bag or weekender, you won’t be disappointed by the size of this spacious tote by Lululemon.

This is the bag you buy when you want one tote to fulfill multiple functions. The spacious compartment is big enough for a couple of outfits, towels and shoes—perfect for the gym or weekend getaways. And just when you think you’ve run out of room (annoying), you haven’t (phew!). The bag has an expandable capacity of up to 27L and can transform into a more compact size when not required. 

But besides its everyday utility, Lululemon’s City Adventurer is also one of the best travel totes for the airplane. The roomy interior is small enough to fit into the overhead compartment and the luggage sleeve makes it effortless to wheel through the airport. Our only complaint is that the nylon silhouette is less structured than other fabrics, so when it isn’t full, it tends to look a little floppy. 

Horizn Studios Shibuya: Best convertible women’s travel tote

• Convertible straps convert from tote to backpack for convenient carrying
• Made from durable, lightweight, water-repellent, recycled materials
• Padded laptop sleeve
• Luggage sleeve
• You may be looking for something more stylish

If high-performance gear gets you going, you won’t be able to stop speaking (or using) this travel totepack by Horizn Studios. Featuring adjustable straps, a water-repellent exterior, plenty of slips and a luggage sleeve, we can’t fault it.

Mentioned as one of our best backpacks for women , the Tokyo Totepack is as dynamic as the city it’s named after. We love to carry it as a tote when hopping on and off trains, and carry it as a backpack whilst exploring new cities—hands-free. Whatever your preferred method, this hybrid bag is one of the best for travel. 

Made from recycled PET and other sustainable materials, the versatile silhouette is as lightweight and durable as it is environmentally aware. The plethora of pockets keep the essentials organized for a smooth-sailing, scrabble-free journey. This Horizn Studios travel tote even has a padded sleeve big enough for a 13” laptop for those whose trip is more bleisure (business leisure) than leisure. 

Cuyana: Best overnight women’s travel tote

• Spacious interior for all the overnight essentials
• Internal zip pockets for effortless organization
• Protective feet on the bottom
• Recycled plastic option available for vegans
• May be too bulky for everyday use

Cuyana is our queen of elevated essentials and this one is extremely difficult to fault. Featuring zipped pockets, protective feet, a luggage sleeve and plenty of space, this travel tote is a guru in effortless overnight getaways.

In order to bring you the most objective review possible, we tried to look for faults in this overnight bag, but Cuyana made it almost impossible. As an overnight bag, this illustrious leather tote has thought over everything. From a spacious, compartmentalized interior to protective feet and a luggage sleeve, we really felt the difference sailing through the airport with this tote in tow. 

As one of the most sustainable luxury brands, Cuyana even has a recycled plastic option available for vegans and its leather option is responsibly sourced and LWG certified. If we had to find a downfall to this powerhouse travel tote , it would be that it’s slightly heavy for everyday use, but a lightweight packable tote or backpack solves that problem easily. 

Beis The Weekender: Best weekender travel tote bag

• Bottom compartment to keep your shoes separate
• Back zipper pocket transforms into trolley sleeve
• Metal feet to protect the bottom
• Removable shoulder strap for easy carrying
• Doesn’t come in a smaller size

This compartmentalized, spacious tote makes for the perfect weekender bag. However, if you’re looking for something smaller to accompany your check-in luggage, you may prefer something more compact.

This is our go-to travel bag for those short weekend getaways that don’t require check in luggage. As one of our best carry-on totes, the structured silhouette is perfectly sized for overhead compartments, while still large enough to fit the essentials (including a hairdryer if that’s one of yours.)

But it’s not just the bag’s roomy interior that makes it a weekender win, it’s also the tote’s effortless organization and durable exterior. Featuring a padded laptop sleeve, key fob and external zipped pockets, everything is always in place. And while we never really love unpacking, we love that when we arrive at our destination, our shoes are safely zipped up—far away from our silks and chiffons. This weekender tote really is the only bag you need for a quick getaway (although an additional belt bag never hurts.)

Calpak Luka: Best laptop tote for women

• Ultra-light with padded shoulder straps for easy carrying
• Padded laptop sleeve big enough for a 15” laptop
• Expandable bottom for added volume
• Once expanded, the laptop sleeve becomes slightly lopsided
• Interior pockets don’t have closures

It’s not a business bag, but if you need to take your 15-inch laptop on holiday, you won’t have to worry every time you put down your bag, the ultra-padded silhouette provides ample protection.

Looking for an ultra-organized laptop tote bag for your next trip? This one by Calpak is the total package. With a total of nine pockets, there’s a specific spot for every device, document and travel snack. Made from polyester, the lightweight exterior is water resistant (no need to worry about unexpected rain showers) and comfortable to carry with a removable shoulder strap. And while functionality is the bag’s priority, we also love how the leather accents add a touch of sophistication. 

But the real hero here is this Calpak travel tote’s ability to expand when necessary. We so appreciate that the medium sized bag isn’t too bulky to carry around from day to day, but when you need to pack in that extra pair of shoes or a change of clothes, the added expandable bottom compartment is ready and waiting to take the load off. 

Senreve Cadence: Best bleisure travel tote for women

• Made from scratch, stain and water resistant leather
• Magnetic closure is easy to open and close
• Made in Italy from premium materials
• Sophisticated, timeless style
• Fits a 15” laptop
• Senreve is a premium label and therefore less affordable than other quality bags

The Senreve Cadence tote is no doubt an investment, but we think it’s a smart one if you’re constantly jet setting off for business, leisure—or a little bit of both.

Mixing business and pleasure (we call it bleisure)? You need a travel tote that does the same. It should be stylish enough to accentuate your city break outfits. But at the same time, it needs to fit your laptop, organize the essentials and quite simply, get the job done. Sure, it’s a tall order, but the Senreve Cadence fits the bill. 

As one of our favorite brands for bags, Senreve is a masterclass in multifunctionality—tying together the professional side and sartorial side of the modern business woman. This is evident in the Cadence tote. Made in Italy from A-grade leather, the sophisticated silhouette is timelessly suited to a lifetime of versatile wear (we plan to keep ours forever). Plus, it is also scratch, stain and water resistant, making it one of the most durable bags we own. 

Big enough to fit a 15” laptop and featuring beautifully buckled luggage straps, the Cadence tote slips onto your luggage while rolling through the airport. And when you aren’t on the move, it doubles up as your everyday designer work bag —so basically, it’s much more than just a travel tote. 

Dagne Dover Dash: Best grocery travel tote bag

• Ultra light for a barely there feel
• Made fully from recycled materials
• Foldable when not in use
• Only one internal pocket suitable for smaller essentials

This travel tote truly is an elevated essential. Yep, you can probably find a grocery bag for under a dollar, but it’ll never be as durable, stylish and suitable to carry all things (other than just food.)

For us, this bag wasn’t love at first sight, but it’s kind of addictive once you start using it. So much so, that now we’ve added multiple colorways to our arsenal and barely go anywhere without one, especially while traveling. 

And while we prefer a more structured (like a backpack) at the airport, we love having a tote on holiday (especially when hitting the beach or heading to a market.) The Dagne Dover Dash is incredibly lightweight and compact to pack. It’s a lot more durable than other grocery totes (we tested it with a 600-page book and watermelon and it held up well.) And we appreciate the internal pocket for all those elusive smaller essentials like keys, cards and your phone. Just be warned that it’s almost impossible to settle on just one color, so you might as well add more than one from the get go. 

Anine Bing Rio: Best beach travel tote for women

• Timeless, sophisticated and incredibly stylish
• Woven seagrass fabric is light and breathable
• Spacious interior to fit all the essentials and more
• Woven seagrass fabric needs to be left to dry if exposed to excessive moisture or liquid

As major advocates of internal pockets and compartmentalization, we would only forgo this for an absolute showstopper, which this is. So we say go for it. Just add a zippered pouch to organize smaller essentials.

Usually, we’re all for prioritizing function, highlighting features such as pockets, zips and luggage sleeves. But for this Anine Bing Rio beach tote , the fashion-forward aesthetic is the real hero and should not be overlooked. 

Don’t get us wrong, it holds up well as a beach bag , with ample space for books, towels and a change of clothes. However, it’s the tote’s timeless yet on-trend style that has us summer lovin’ this season. So much so that we’re prepared to overlook the lack of pockets and luggage sleeve. With an oversized logo and minimalist hues, this is one of the most stylish women’s travel totes. And one that we’re proud to carry around the airport, to the beach and around the rooftop bar. 

Buying guide: How to find the right travel tote

While there are a couple of general requirements that make up a quality travel tote, the best travel tote for you will depend on exactly what your trip requires. To get a handle (pun intended) on what you’re looking for exactly, here are a few things to consider:

Type of travel

Are you traveling for work? If so, it’s imperative that your travel tote has a secure place to hold a laptop, looks professional and is highly organized. 

Traveling for leisure? You may want to prioritize space for books and other relaxation essentials, as well as style. 

Traveling for bleisure (a mix of business and pleasure)? Make sure your tote hits that elusive sweet spot between function and fashion—always a requirement with us, but even more so if you have client meetings in between your poolside cocktails. 

Destination

It goes without saying that your destination plays a big role in the type of travel tote you need. This can be tricky if you’re planning on buying a tote for multiple vacations. Think of the places you usually go. Are you more of a city-break kind of traveler? Beach babe? Or adventure enthusiast? This will help determine which features to prioritize: durability, water resistance, comfort, style, or a combination of everything. 

Travel totes come in a huge range of sizes. And while you don’t want one that you have to squeeze everything into, you also don’t want to carry around a bulky bag all day. To pick the right size, think about the length of your stay and how often you intend to use the bag. Is it an overnight or weekender tote? Or do you plan to use it daily while at your destination? 

Like all things, the material you choose for your bag is all about balancing function and fashion. While some materials such as a durable canvas, lightweight cotton and water resistant nylon are more functional, other materials like Italian leather are more sophisticated and stylish. Also think about colors, patterns and logos—are you going for a timeless aesthetic or trendy aesthetic? 

Things we specifically looked for in the best travel totes

These are the general requirements that make up the best travel totes for women. Of course, not every bag has all of them but we tried to find travel totes that highlighted organization and comfort. 

Organization

Used specifically for travel, a travel tote needs to be organized. Therefore, we looked for elements like zipped closures, compartments, removable sleeves and plenty of pockets. 

Comfortable to carry

The best travel totes are also effortless to tote around. To ensure that this is the case, most of the tote bags on our list include straps that are padded and adjustable, as well as luggage sleeves that hook onto your favorite carry-on . 

Frequently asked questions about the best travel totes for women

Depending on the brand and product features, tote bags can make excellent travel bags. When looking for the best travel tote bags, we look for quality brands that are organized and comfortable to carry. For all our top recommendations, see our full list of best travel totes for women .

KAAI and Senreve are some of our favorite brands for high-quality tote bags. Not only are they incredibly stylish and versatile, but they also feature plenty of pockets, metal feet for extra protection, zipped closures and reinforced handles, making them both functional and fashionable.

Whether you choose to carry a backpack or tote bag ultimately depends on the occasion or destination. While backpacks are heroed for their unparalleled practicality, tote bags are usually considered to be more stylish and versatile. Therefore, if you’re planning a hike or adventure vacation, we would recommend a backpack. But if you’re planning a stylish city break or relaxed coastal getaway, a tote is usually preferable. Of course, you could also opt for a hybrid totepack, like the one by Bellroy .

A travel tote is simply a tote bag that is designed for travel. A good travel tote usually includes things like a luggage sleeve, plenty of pockets for effortless organization, padded handles for added comfort. If you ask us, a travel tote with a zipper is preferable for long journeys where you tend to leave your bag unattended for extended periods. 

About the author

Emma Treagus

Women’s fashion & travel editor.

A former fashion assistant and budding entrepreneur who calls the world her home, Emma writes many of Luxe Digital’s women’s style and travel stories, drawing on her passion and experience for slow fashion alongside an appreciation for current trends. When she’s not getting her way with words, you’ll find her exploring a new city (at quite a walking pace)—locating the nearest sushi restaurant or devouring a book on the beach.

Learn more about Emma Treagus

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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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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By Kristi Kellogg and Paris Wilson

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Totes are one of the most essential travel items you can own—the best tote bags are endlessly versatile and tend to have room for everything you could need while in transit. For some travelers, a sturdy leather tote is a no-brainer personal item for flights: It's bigger than most purses, so you can more easily fit a laptop, water bottle, and all other plane accessories inside. For others, an easy-to-fold cotton option might be the item you break out mid-trip for a visit to the beach or farmers market.

Whatever your style, a tote bag you love is a must-have piece of luggage , and we're here to help you find the right one. Below, we've pulled together the best tote bags to travel with—from value buys to investment bags you'll get compliments on for years to come—starting with the ones Condé Nast Traveler editors and contributors are carrying these days.

• Editor favorites

Splurge-worthy totes

• Business trip–friendly bags

Packable totes

Everyday totes.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Editors' picks

It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that I’ve used this bag every single day since I bought it. I love the quilted design but the real selling point for me was the size; not only can I carry my daily essentials, but I’ve actually used this as a weekender . I enjoy that it looks cool and slouchy when there’s not a lot in it, but even when I over fill it—which I do, regularly—the quilted strap doesn’t dig into my shoulder or slip off constantly. It also has numerous handy compartments; an inside large pocket, an inside zippered pocket, and two more zippered pockets on the outside that are cleverly hidden. To me, this bag is perfect. — Abigail Malbon , global audience development manager

Baggu’s Nylon shoulder bag is more durable than its canvas tote bags but equally as stylish. It’s slightly slouchy, slightly structured, and comes in the signature Baggu colors and patterns. The adjustable quilted shoulder strap allows for a crossbody fit , a must-have for me when I’m commuting into the office or walking longer distances (nobody needs their laptop sliding off their shoulder onto the sidewalk). The zip closure and interior pockets are handy for organizing miscellaneous goodies and preventing spillage. Plus, the lightweight material can easily be flattened to fit into my suitcase. I find myself continuously reaching for this multipurpose tote on my way to the gym, office, farmers market, and airport. — Hannah Towey , associate editor

Sentimentality may cloud my vision, for the tote in my possession belongs to my late grandmother. And when I tell you I was complimented frequently for it while in Italy, I mean I felt I needed to use the bag to beat back admirers waxing: “Wow, is Vera Bradley back?”; “Is it reversible?!”; “The textiles are so beautiful.” I often caught myself fantasizing about dumping it upside down to perform a “What’s in my bag” for nobody in particular—so capacious is the tote that I was needlessly carrying multiple novels within and rarely remembered to leave my toiletry kit on the hotel bathroom counter where it belonged. Handy pockets ringing the interior are just icing, and would have kept my passport safely inside had I ever been moved to act on the aforementioned dumping. — Charlie Hobbs , associate editor

I have always traveled with some type of packable tote bag. I need it for snack runs at local markets; for souvenir shopping without all the wasteful plastic and paper bags; and especially if I run out of room to get all my souvenirs home in my carry-on . This Junes bag is my favorite, because even though it’s slightly bigger than a nylon packable shopper bag, I love being able to see what’s inside—plus, the two bottle pockets are great for carrying water around, or just separating out important items like my phone or keys to the Airbnb . I love the bright colors they come in, and the brand values (namely, the bags are made of recycled plastic, in partnership with an all-women sewing co-op in Ciudad Juarez , Mexico). — Megan Spurrell , senior editor

My gym is 10 blocks from my apartment, so I try to make the trek count. On my way back, I like to stop by the grocery store and pet supply shop, or grab a bouquet of flowers from the deli. This huge, floppy tote fits all my workout stuff with lots of room to spare for incidentals, and I love the bright color and cute goat print. — Alexandra Sanidad , research director

I love a tote—the size, the shape, the casual ease, the practicality—but the canvas variety that I seem to amass gets dirty so quickly. And, let’s be honest, the logos most sport aren’t always the look I’m going for. I recently splurged on this woven leather tote bag. It was pricey—in the range of what I’d pay for a handbag—but I love that it’s handcrafted (no two are alike) by leather artisans. It’s gorgeous and I plan to use it as an everyday bag. Because of the quality of the leather, it will patina beautifully and get better with age. Plus, it comes with a little St. Christopher medal; he’s the patron saint of travelers, which of course felt like a sign that it was the tote for me. — Rebecca Misner , senior features editor

I’ve gotten so many compliments on this bag since I started using it on my commute to work last fall. I have the eggplant color, which is a beautiful purple-brownish hue; the leather material is truly buttery soft. It’s smaller than my other work bag (a medium-sized Telfar), but still fits all my essentials—a laptop and charger, planner, Kindle Paperwhite, small toiletry bag , sunglasses , wallet, phone, etc.—and I’ve been appreciating the more streamlined look. I like that there is a key leash and interior compartments (both slip sleeves and a zippered compartment) to keep my belongings organized. The tote doesn’t zip closed, but there is a magnetic button closure that keeps items inside secure. My only slight critique: I wouldn’t mind the straps being a tad thicker, especially when the bag is really full. — Madison Flager, senior commerce editor

This bag is all about the pockets. No tote has ever kept me quite as organized as this one from MZ Wallace, a brand known for its signature quilted bags. It offers six interior pockets, five exterior pockets, and a detachable pouch, giving me a dedicated space for all of my essentials plus a whole lot more. I’m always impressed at how much this thing fits; an umbrella , my 13-inch laptop, a full change of clothes, and my lunch. The Medium Metro tote features ultra-soft shoulder straps, making it a go-to for commutes to the office and as a spacious personal item on flights. My favorite thing about this bag is how lightweight it feels even when full—it never digs into my shoulders or hurts my arms. More features that make this roomy tote a smart choice for travelers: a luggage sleeve, protective feet, and a detachable and adjustable crossbody strap. It looks so sleek in black, but it’s also available in over a dozen colors, including red, bright yellow, moss, blue, and white. — Meaghan Kenny , associate commerce editor

Madewell's classic leather tote bag is one of the brand's bestsellers—and it's easy to see why. The thin but sturdy body is made of leather with a lightly waxed finish, so the bag can both fold beneath the seat in front of you and stand up on its own. It has top handles as well as an adjustable shoulder strap. This tote doesn't have a zip closure along the top, but there is an inner pocket perfect for storing valuables (and the large outer pocket is perfect for items you want to take in and out often, like sunglasses). The bag comes in several sizes, but I love how the medium easily converts from a work bag (most laptops can fit inside) to a casual purse you can use every day. —M.S.

This is by far the most functional tote bag I’ve ever used. Whether I’m commuting to the office, heading on a day trip, or going to the airport, I never worry about fitting everything I need (and more). The Transform tote keeps my 15" laptop secure in its own compartment, fits my large reusable water bottle in a side pocket, has protective feet at the bottom so my bag doesn’t touch the ground, and has multiple other pockets for keeping small essentials like my sunglasses, wallet, and earbuds organized. The feature that really sets this tote bag apart from others I’ve used in the past? It can be easily adjusted and worn four different ways depending on what’s on your travel itinerary: It can be worn as a shoulder bag using its handles, as a classic tote bag using the longer adjustable strap, or as a backpack; plus, it fits right on top of your luggage, thanks to the trolley sleeve. — M.K.

Read a full review here .

This is my go-to statement tote. Vince Camuto’s bags have special, unique patterns that make them the ultimate statement piece. I usually gravitate toward this one on weekends when I know I’ll be moving around the city and can’t pinpoint one specific atmosphere. The open design allows me to fit my laptop, a change of shoes, a small toiletry bag, and my wallet with ease. Even better, with a flat bottom, I never have to worry about my belongings toppling out, no matter if my bag is filled to the brim or light as a feather. — Paris Wilson , commerce producer

I use this Baggu tote all the time—it's often smushed into my purse or fanny pack when running errands in New York City, and gets tossed into my suitcase on nearly every vacation. It folds up into roughly the size of a deck of cards, but when unfolded, holds a ton; you could put a new stack of books in there or a small load of groceries from a local farmers market. It's great for a day at the beach too, since the material dries quickly and won't be ruined by a wet bathing suit and towel. —M.F.

Lux & Nyx is a small, woman-owned business that makes a range of stylish and functional bags (backpacks, crossbody, clutches), but it’s the Origami Tote that’s the clear winner for travelers. It comes in three different sizes, and the large (15"L x 11.5”H x 6.5”W) is the perfect personal item companion for frequent fliers. The bag is roomy, and the interior construction makes organization easy. The padded laptop sleeve fits my 13-inch computer as well as my 11-inch iPad and even a paperback book. On the opposite side of the bag, two interior pockets are great for smaller items like keys, a portable charger, or a wallet—things you don’t want getting lost in the deep main compartment. There’s another small interior side pocket for your water bottle, too. Both sides of the exterior have a crossed, origami design (hence the name!), and the bottom of one pocket can be unzipped to convert into a trolley sleeve. The bag only comes in one color, black, but there is an option to select silver or gold hardware. — Patrice J. Williams , contributor

Cuyana's ethos centers on owning fewer, more high quality things, and this pebbled leather bag is the perfect example of the only tote you'll ever need. A go-to of associate commerce editor Meaghan Kenny's , it's made of beautiful Italian leather with a microsuede interior, and comes in a handful of neutrals that'll go with everything. It's soft and malleable when you need it to be and fits plenty of essentials. And though the bag comes with just one interior pocket, the brand sells an organization insert that has four pockets, and will ensure you can always find what you need, right when you need it. (Prefer a zipper? You're in luck .)

The Book Tote is a Dior classic that's been revamped several times over the years. This iteration of the embossed tote with the macro-cannage motif gives it an almost quilted appearance. In true Dior fashion, the bag has a bit of bling with two gold-finish metal “Dior” charms on one of the handles. The bag comes with a detachable strap so it can be worn as a crossbody or shoulder bag.

If you’re looking for a statement tote, look no further. The eye-catching design has a likeness to origami and comes in a range of crisp pastels. It features adjustable handles that can be shortened or lengthened and one main compartment is closed by a zipper.

The Prada triangle is recognizable and so chic as it's laid out as an embroidered pattern onto the large tote. The bag comes in four contrasting colors that offer an elevated look to the more minimalistic design. It's made from the brand's iconic Saffiano leather and has a removable leather keychain on the exterior.

Woven from natural palm leaf with a spacious silhouette, this straw tote has vegan leather trim, hand-stitched detailing, and slim braided top handles. The colorful Watermill straw tote brings an elevated, playful look to any beach day with more than enough space for a book, towel , and water bottle.

There is little hesitation when choosing this Christian Louboutin tote bag. Its 12" x 19" dimensions mean you don’t have to sacrifice any of your essentials. The bottom of the bag is made of rubber so you can have some peace of mind when you inevitably need to place it on the floor, in the back of the car, or underneath the seat in front of you on a plane. And with a small wristlet attached, you can keep necessities close if you choose to throw the tote in an overhead bin or trunk.

A more subdued version of the classic Louis Vuitton monogram, the OnThe Go tote adds a chic, sleek spin to any travel outfit. The Twin Toron top handles and two shoulder straps offer extra versatility and comfort.

Business trip–friendly totes

This is the first tote bag the popular luggage brand, SteamLine, has released. Though new to the tote game, SteamLine has crafted an incredibly roomy carry-all with a structured silhouette made from plant-based canvas and metal-free leather. If you're mixing a bit of business with pleasure, it’s an ideal choice for family travel; it’s spacious, deep, and can store Kindles, gaming systems, coloring books, and diapers inside. The detachable pouch alone can easily fit up to six passports.

This sleek, sophisticated tote bag has plenty of room, with a deep, wide interior and side gussets that give you even more interior space. The bottom of the bag is outfitted with metal feet, allowing the bag to stand on its own and keep the fine leather surface protected. Want to customize it? Leatherology will monogram the bag, if you like. Seen here in camel, the classic tote is also available in versatile neutrals including dawn, navy blue, and black onyx.

Say hello to your new business trip tote. This elegant bag is made of leather with a fully lined interior. There are two open compartments and one zip compartment. And if you're looking for both function and form, know that the contrasting luggage tag is an eye-catching addition. Shop the tote in black, tan, gray heron, calendula, shell pink, and brilliant red. (And, if you prefer a more petite bag, the Perry tote comes in a smaller version , as well.)

For straightforward, luxurious leather pieces—all of which you can customize with monogramming and a hearty selection of color options— Leatherology is the place to go. Though the brand makes several larger totes (including zippered options), the vertical bag is a standout. The full-grain leather tote is incredibly versatile so you can use it from day to night. Plus, it's perfect for those who want something more compact: It'll fit your laptop, but maybe not your reusable water bottle, umbrella, and stack of in-flight reading materials .

This gorgeous tote is made of pebbled Italian leather—the kind you just want to run your hand over again and again. It’s got several compartments and pockets, snaps closed, and has lateral ties for additional security. It comes in five core colors, plus rotating seasonal hues. In addition to choosing your color, you can also choose between two sizes so you get the bag that best suits your needs. As for the name, the tote is called the “system” tote because it's made to pair with Cuyana's add-on accessories, including interior flap bags, additional inserts, and a laptop sleeve. These add-on components can be used interchangeably with other Cuyana bags, including satchels, crossbody bags, and more.

Renowned French brand Delsey made this tote with travelers who love to shop in mind. It can easily be folded up in your suitcase or carry-on, so won’t have to limit the number of souvenirs you bring back. Made from recycled water bottles and vegan leather, this bag will come with you on vacation for years to come.

A packable tote is a must-have when traveling, but landing one as cute as this leather tote is hard to find. The large triangular bag is made from durable faux leather and has a soft velvet interior. It can easily be folded and stored in a carry-on or backpack and won’t take up noticeable space. The slouchy bag is the perfect minimalist design that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. The tote comes with a slim pouch that holds smaller necessities like a passport, lip balm or sunglasses.

The Catalina Deluxe tote can be many things: a gym bag, diaper bag, or beach bag to name a few. Highlights of this popular tote include a separate shoe compartment, trolley sleeve, and long adjustable straps.

Just when I think I’ve run out of room, I haven’t. The expandable bottom of this Calpak laptop tote adds an extra four inches, allowing me to add last-minute essentials or souvenirs mid-trip. Like all products in the brand’s Luka collection, it’s made of a lightweight, ultra-soft, puffy exterior that makes carrying its handle easy. The material is also easy to clean—simply wipe away dirt or spills without a worry. Inside, there’s a padded 15" laptop sleeve, multiple side pockets, and a zippered section to keep smaller items organized. Another feature I love: There’s a zippered pocket on the outside that keeps my phone or passport secure, while still being easy to access. It’s a great tote for commuters and thanks to its luggage trolley sleeve, an ideal carry-on bag for travelers. —M.K.

Finally, everything has a place. With this Bellroy tote, you can avoid the dreaded rummaging around moments by utilizing all six pockets and the laptop sleeve found inside. The water-resistant, woven material folds up easily too, making this space saver a travel essential.

Most people who grew up on the East Coast know the Boat and Tote—it's an L.L. Bean classic that's been around for decades. (Some have even described it as more of a household object than a bag, noting how much of a mainstay its become, and not just with the boat-loving crowd it was initially geared toward.) And what's not to like? These totes are spacious, the design is classic, and they start at $25, maxing out at $40, depending on which size you go for. The open-top option is great for day trips when you might have beach towels poking out the top, but the zip-top version will hold up best on longer hauls (or if you're traveling with kids who might be prone to tipping the whole thing over). This tote comes in a natural canvas color, with the option to monogram and customize the color on the straps.

With the option of being carried as a backpack or tote, the Borealis tote is a go-to for outdoor adventures. The interior houses a laptop sleeve while the exterior offers two deep water bottle pockets; store drinks, umbrellas, or even a small tripod in there. The durable, water-repellent finish seals the deal for this tote.

Some of the best tote bags serve as a solid backup when you don't want to use your everyday purse or backpack . This minimalist leather and nylon tote from Longchamp comes in several neutral colors. Since it's water-resistant, it's a great bag to bring along if you suspect inclement weather. But the best part about this bag? You can fold it up into a tiny square and snap it closed, making it an easy choice to toss into your checked luggage.

This extra-large tote is big enough to house all your daily essentials and then some. The handmade bag features a cotton lining, one zipped pocket, and one wall pocket, which makes it easy to organize your belongings within. The bag, which is handmade in Bangladesh, is Fair Trade-Certified, too.

The Augustnoa tote makes a difference in your life and for the earth; Each bag has been upcycled from 12 cotton shirts to craft the canvas exterior, plus six plastic bottles for the expansive lining. It features two adjustable shoulder straps, a slim laptop pocket, interior water bottle holders, a luggage sleeve for seamless suitcase attachment, and a convenient key leash.

Modern Picnic is known for its chic lunch bags that look like handbags. The Tote is made from vegan leather that is incredibly easy to spot clean. It features a removable insulated pouch that keeps your food cool and separated from the rest of your essentials.

With a 15-liter capacity, the Executive Work tote is large enough to fit all of your office essentials. Inside you’ll find a laptop compartment and a water bottle pocket while the exterior has a zippered pocket and double drop-in pockets on the back.

The classic canvas tote can be carried in hand or over the shoulder with its 40-inch adjustable straps. It has taped seams in the interior to help combat spills and everyday wear and tear.

Peak Design recently revamped its Everyday Tote, but kept the clean aesthetics. Its thoughtful functionality protects, organizes, and offers quick access to your everyday essentials. Made from an 100 percent recycled weatherproof shell, unexpected showers won’t automatically ruin your commute. Another perk: You’re able to customize the storage inside with stretchy internal FlexFold dividers.

Rag & Bone creates timeless pieces that are built to last, and this Logan leather tote is no exception. Made from imported pebbled leather, the bag is incredibly soft and spacious, with a height of 15 inches and a width of 22 inches. Although roomy, the size doesn’t limit its versatility—the bag is equipped with two sets of handles so it can be carried both over the shoulder or on your forearm.

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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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

These 22 Designer Tote Bags Do It All With Style to Spare

The results are in: You deserve to treat yourself.

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

An avid tote user herself (she’s a mother of three), Geffen confirms that a designer tote is a great investment option for anyone looking to start—or expand—a high-end collection. As for what to look for in a tote, durability is definitely key. “Both designer and non-designer bags should always be judged by the quality–from fabrics and construction to the stitching and zippers, buckles, etc.,” she says. “Our tote bags are constantly in motion, so it’s important that the one you’re using can endure your day-to-day comings and goings.”

You should also take lifestyle and occasion into consideration. Are you more into canvas totes or leather ones? “Compartments and zipper pockets are also qualities I’m always looking for, though may be less important to others. Depending on the setting, shoppers may also want to consider fabrics and strap styles...While the trend cycle shifts quickly, nothing is more fashionable than owning your own unique sense of style. So, choosing a handbag that’s true to you is by far the most important factor when looking for your next bag!”

I took Geffen’s expertise, fellow ELLE editor recommendations , size, style, and features into account to bring you a list of the 22 best designer tote bags to shop now.

Loewe Small Squeeze Bag

The gold chain isn’t just for aesthetics—it adjusts to make the strap however long as you’d like. And the ultra squishy handle is like a built-in stress ball.

Colors: 6 options

Material: Lambskin

Dimensions: Height: 9.4 inches; width: 11.4 inches; depth: 4.1 inches

Bottega Veneta Small Andiamo

ELLE readers love this Bottega Veneta Andiamo . Any bag that has been spotted on the likes of Michelle Yeoh, RM of BTS, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, and Jacob Elordi is an automatic thumbs up from me.

Colors: 7 options

Dimensions: Height: 7.9 inches; width: 9.8 inches; depth: 3.9 inches

Telfar Shopping Bag - Medium Silver

“I like to consider the medium Telfar Shopping Tote my ludicrously capacious bag,” says beauty commerce editor Nerisha Penrose. “The beauty (and versatility) of Telfar’s popular Shopping Tote is that it can be whatever the hell you want it to be...It houses all 12 of my nude lip glosses, my Macbook, a Tupperware packed with a home-cooked meal, and a collection of ketchup packets (who loves dry fries, anyway?).”

Colors: 40 options

Material: Polyurethane, polyester

Dimensions: Height: 11.25 inches; width: 15 inches; depth: 5 inches

Little Liffner Sprout Tote Mini Dark Brown Suede

This next recommendation comes from ELLE’s own digital deputy editor Claire Stern. “This perfectly sized carryall by one of my favorite Scandi brands, Little Liffner, has fast become my new go-to. It’s sleek and minimalist enough for after-work commitments and perfectly practical for daytime.”

Material: Cow suede, cotton

Dimensions: Height: 7.8 inches; width: 7 inches; depth: 7 inches

Tory Burch Lee Radziwill Double Bag

What’s better than one iconic Tory Burch bag? A doubled version.

Colors: Pine Bark

Material: Leather, suede, cotton

Dimensions: Height: 11.8 inches; width: 12.4 inches; depth: 6.1 inches

Cult Gaia Odette Tote

Like the love child of your favorite tote and your favorite vase. There’s certainly something to be said about self-supporting bags.

Colors: Mushroom or Black

Material: Cow leather, Polyurethane

Dimensions: Height: 23.5 inches; width: 16.3 inches; depth: 7.4 inches

Reformation Oversized Vittoria Tote

Get ready to see big bows—a lot of them. I predict they’ll be popping up on designer clothes and accessories everywhere next season.

Colors: Boss Suede, Black Leather, Ecru Suede, or Light Denim

Material: Calf leather (varies by style)

Dimension s: Height: 29 inches; width: 17 inches; depth: 6 inches

Shopbop Archive Celine Mini Luggage

Old Celines will never go out of style. I borrowed one to use during fashion month and was amazed at how spacious and practical it was. Would recommend.

Colors: Neutral

Material: Cowhide leather

Dimensions: Height: 13 inches; width: 12.25 inches; depth: 6.75 inches

Jacquemus Le Regalo Bag

This otherwise standard black tote is spiced up a bit by the oversized gold buckle on the strap.

Colors: Black

Material: Leather, faux suede

Dimensions: Height: 13 inches; width: 11.75 inches; depth: 5.25 inches

A.L.C. Shiloh Bag

Doesn’t this A.L.C. bag look pillowy soft?

Colors: Burnt Umber

Material: Faux leather

Dimensions: Height: 15.75 inches; width: 15.75 inches; depth: 4.75 inches

Alaïa Leather-Trimmed Mesh Tote Bag

What? I’ve got nothing to hide. Flaunt your belongings in a sexy mesh bag.

Material: Mesh, patent leather

Dimensions: Height: 21.5 inches; width: 14 inches

Khaite The Sara Tote

Slouchy bags, embellishments, and metallics are three trends that I saw a ton of this fashion month.

Material: Calf leather, silver plated brass (varies by style)

Dimensions: Height: 20 inches; width: 20.5 inches; depth: 13 inches

Acne Studios Pink Logo Shoulder Tote

It’s always nice when totes have multiple handles or adjustable straps. Rock this one on your shoulder, the crook of your elbow, or in your hand.

Colors: Salmon Pink

Material: Faux leather, twill

Dimensions: Height: 13 inches; width: 18 inches; depth: 6.25 inches

Prada Medium Nappa Leather Tote Bag With Topstitching

Quilted bags are having a moment, and I can’t stop thinking about this Prada rendition, which comes in various sizes.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: Height: 10.6 inches; width: 12.2 inches; depth: 5.1 inches

Louis Vuitton Neverfull Monogram

Geffen cites the Neverfull as one of the most popular designer tote styles at Vivrelle. With a name like Neverfull, it’s no surprise.

Colors: Brown Monogram

Dimensions: Height: 11.4 inches; width: 12.6 inches; depth: 6.7 inches

Dior Medium Book Tote

This is yet another customer favorite. Whether you actually fill it with books is up to you, but it is in the name....

Colors: Ecru and Pink Toile de Jouy Embroidery

Dimensions: Height: 11 inches; width: 14 inches; depth: 6.5 inches

Saint Laurent Leather Shopping Tote Bag

Both Geffen and Stern love this bag from Saint Laurent. “It may not be great for my back, but this tote bag holds my MacBook Air perfectly and has a pouch for miscellaneous belongings (keys, phone, AirPods),” Stern says.

Dimensions: Height: 16 inches; width: 13 inches; depth: 5 inches

Rabanne Pixel Studded Mesh Tote Bag

Swap your tired old work bag for this party-ready option from Rabanne that looks straight out of Studio 54 (or the Renaissance tour).

Color: Silver

Material: Mesh aluminum, leather

Dimensions: Height: 39 inches; width: 34 inches; depth: 2 inches

The Row Graham Tote Bag

From the front, this might look like your average tote. But from the side, it’s got room in spades. If you’re looking for a wearable storage unit, this is the one for you.

Colors: Black, Mushroom, or Burgundy

Dimensions: Height: 15 inches; width: 21 inches; depth: 9 inches

Chloe Marcie Stud Patch Suede & Leather Tote Bag

This is 2023’s high fashion version of a Mary Poppins bag.

Colors: Brown

Dimensions: Height: 14.6 inches; width: 22 inches; depth: 5.9 inches

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22 Best Designer Tote Bags That Are Stylish & Functional

By Paula Lee

A beautiful designer handbag effortlessly pulls together any outfit, and the best designer tote bags do exactly that, plus add functionality to comfortably hold your essentials. “Crafted with precision and using high-quality materials, designer handbags exceed that of nondesigner alternatives,” says Danielle Gumina , content editor at Fashionphile , who recommends investing in one. Plus, if your bag is cared for properly, the premium materials and craftsmanship means you'll own it for years to come. We curated the best designer tote bag picks to shop, including gorgeous quiet-luxury pieces that will stand the test of time, elevated leather shopper totes, fun canvas and raffia options for the impending warm weather, and a few other luxe and covetable styles to add to your wish list.

The best designer tote bags, at a glance:

• Best Leather Tote Bag: Loewe Puzzle Fold Medium Tote , $1,900
• Best Canvas Tote Bag: Marc Jacobs Medium Tote Canvas Bag , $195
• Best Suede Tote Bag: Khaite Lotus Mini Suede Tote , $1,980
• Best Straw Tote Bag: Prada Raffia Tote Bag , $2,050
• Best Work Tote Bag: Tory Burch Perry Triple Compartment Tote , $398
• Best Packable Travel Tote Bag: Longchamp Le Pliage Tote , $155
• Best Mini Tote Bag: Balenciaga Mini Duty-Free Canvas Tote , $1,190
• Best Top-Handle Tote Bag: Bottega Veneta Medium Andiamo Intrecciato Top-Handle Tote , $5,100

Why shop for a designer tote bag?

“Unlike other fast-fashion items that lose their worth quickly, designer handbags often maintain or even increase in value,” Gumina says, name-checking brands such Hermès, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Saint Laurent as the most popular on Fashionphile's resale site. Whether you sell it down the road or pass it on to future generations, it automatically becomes a cherished heirloom.

How to shop for a designer tote

As you’re considering your new bag purchase, keep your personal style and needs in mind. You want to find something you can always turn to and won’t get sick of after one season. Classic designs won’t go out of style, of course, but take an audit of your wardrobe first. Most important, think of how, when, and where you’ll use your tote. Do you typically carry a lot of stuff or do you travel light? Is it something spacious that should double as a work laptop bag ? Or do you prefer a smaller everyday bag that you can use on the go? Ultimately, if it’s a style that can serve you from weekday to weekend, it’s worth thinking about splurging for a designer version. And check out our designer wallet picks to pair with your tote.

All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Marc Jacobs Medium Tote Canvas Bag

With the cheeky branding that Marc Jacobs is known for, this utilitarian canvas tote bag is a playful and casual accessory that will lend your look personality. The textured cotton material is intended to age and adapt a lived-in feel the more you wear it, so this is definitely not a bag to be precious with. Functionality is present too: It has a flat zip top, slip pockets, and a useful webbed shoulder strap that can be attached and adjusted when you want to wear it cross-body. Plus, the wide shape and structured flat bottom make it easy to hold your tablet, a water bottle, a makeup pouch, and whatever else you may need.

• Materials: Cotton canvas
• Colors: Available in nine colors
• Size: 13"W x 10"H x 7"D
• Features: Detachable and adjustable shoulder strap; zip top; three inside pockets

Longchamp Le Pliage Tote

Looking for an affordable designer tote? Longchamp’s Le Pliage is an easy answer. It’s equally useful as a work, school, gym, or carry-on bag, thanks to the space (it can fit a laptop), water-resistant finish, and lightweight foldable design (it clocks in at a little over 10 ounces). Store your phone in the inside slip pocket and other valuables in the larger zippered back pocket. The zip top secured with the leather flap also keeps your haul safe, making this a very convenient everyday bag option.

• Materials: Nylon with leather trim
• Colors: Available in seven colors including neutrals and brights
• Size: 12¼"W x 11¾"H x 7½"D
• Features: Water-resistant; zip-top; leather handles; two interior pocket; packable

Prada Raffia Tote Bag

Saks Fifth Avenue

Come summer, everyone will have straw bags swinging from their arms, so snag yours now. The airy raffia tote from Prada is a statement luxe option that will take you from city to coast. Constructed with an open-weave crochet design and finished with the logo, it’s soft and comfortable to wear, and it also fits over the shoulder. Opt for a pop of color to embrace the summery mood or go for tried-and-true black. Tip: Since it’s unlined, organize and protect your essentials with pouches .

• Materials: Raffia-like yarn
• Colors: Available in mint green, pink, black, and white
• Size: 14.1"W x 14.9"H x 1.1"D
• Features: Crochet design; unlined

The Row Idaho Leather Tote

What designer epitomizes quiet luxury more than The Row? The hallmark of the brand founded by Ashley and Mary Kate Olsen is beautifully crafted and logo-free essentials that lean understated and minimalist, but with a design POV. Take this leather top-handle tote. The eye-catching trapezoid shape is unique yet functional. Gusseted sides can be tucked in when you have a lighter load, while the tie closure will keep everything contained. We also think the wide top handles are a chic alternative when you don’t want to wear a tote on your shoulders.

• Materials: Leather
• Colors: Black and dark brown
• Size: 13.75"W x 8"H x 6.5"D
• Features: Wide handles; tie closure; interior zip pocket

By Elizabeth Logan

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By Jake Henry Smith

Loewe Puzzle Fold Medium Tote

Net-A-Porter

As seen on fashion editors and well-dressed celebs like Jennifer Lawrence, the Loewe Puzzle Fold Tote is a sister to the popular Puzzle bag. The origami design not only looks cool and architectural; it actually folds flat into itself, making it a space saver for your closet (or suitcase, if you’d like to use it as a travel purse ). Crafted with smooth leather and lined in suede, it’s versatile, lightweight, and roomy enough for everyday without being too big, for those who prefer something more streamlined.

• Materials: Leather with suede lining
• Colors: Tan, black, and olive green
• Size: 10¼"W x 12½"H x 5½"D
• Features: Foldable; lined

Gucci Ophidia GG Medium Tote

Bringing together the allover double-“G” Gucci logo and signature green and red webbed stripe, this medium-size tote feels simultaneously retro and modern (one could be forgiven for thinking it’s vintage). The sturdy canvas reinforces the structured shape of the tote, while leather trim and double shoulder straps provide polish. Once you have this bag, you’ll find yourself pairing it with everything thanks to its endless versatility.

• Materials: Canvas with leather trim
• Colors: Available in three monogram options, as well as one leather version
• Size: 15"W x 11"H x 5.5"D
• Features: Microsuede lining; magnetic closure; interior zippered and slip pockets

Mansur Gavriel Everyday Soft Leather Tote

Bergdorf Goodman

Made with soft tumbled Italian leather that gives an attractive amount of slouch, this simple tote is built to see you through the day. It’s spacious, with enough room for a 16-inch laptop, a change of shoes, and other must-haves. Stash your cash, keys, phone, and ID in the detachable pouch. Celeb fans include Katie Holmes, Margot Robbie, and Julianne Moore, so you know you’re in stylish company.

• Materials: Italian calfskin leather
• Colors: Black, cream, pink, green
• Size: 21½"W x 11¾"H x 9"D
• Features: Detachable leashed pouch

Bottega Veneta Medium Andiamo Intrecciato Top-Handle Tote

Bottega Veneta is adept at turning out buzzy It bags that gain a cult following. The latest one is the Andiamo, which has captured the attention of Hailey Bieber, Kylie Jenner, and Jacob Elordi. A meticulous example of the Italian brand’s instantly recognizable Intrecciato technique of weaving together leather strips, this midsize bag can be worn multiple ways. With the sliding pull-through strap that’s accented with knot hardware, it can transform from top-handle tote to shoulder satchel to cross-body bag . Inside, there are two main compartments separated by a zippered pocket. This one is an investment, for sure, but one that will pay in stylish dividends.

• Materials: Lambskin leather
• Colors: Available in five colors
• Size: 12"W x 9½"H x 5"D
• Features: Adjustable sliding strap; dual compartments; inside zippered pocket; two slip pockets

Tory Burch Perry Triple Compartment Tote

If you need an elegant work bag that fits your laptop, lunch, and loose extras, this Tory Burch pebbled-leather tote is up for the task. A handy center zipper pocket intended specifically for 13-inch laptops divides the bag into two compartments to keep everything organized and handy. There are also slip pockets for your phone, sunglasses , and other things you want to separate for easy access. Longer shoulder straps mean that it will fit comfortably over coats, knits, or blazers. And we so appreciate the metal feet on the bottom—it not only helps it stand upright; it will protect the material and shape of the handbag.

• Colors: Available in four neutral shades
• Size: 14"W x 11½"H x 4"D
• Features: Laptop compartment; three interior slip pockets; bottom protective metal feet

Saint Laurent Shopping Leather Tote

Those who prefer a shopper-style tote will gravitate to this Saint Laurent number. Clean lines and hardware-free design mean it can easily pair to any outfit or mood. Smooth and supple Italian leather gives a subtle slouch to the east-west silhouette. Inside, there’s a handy zipper pouch and outside, a logo charm boasting “YSL” hangs discreetly from the leather tag.

• Colors: Available in black, beige, and cream
• Size: 14"W x 11"H x 5"D
• Features: Open top with magnetic closure; removable leashed pouch

DeMellier Midi New York Leather Tote Bag

Neiman Marcus

If you’re looking for an accessible luxury price point, the DeMellier bags won’t disappoint. Handcrafted by artisans at family-owned Spanish factories, they’re made to last for many years ahead. And so are the sophisticated designs, such as this top-handle tote. Featuring a gleaming front buckle and trapezoidal shape that’s held together by magnetic snaps, it’s chic enough for day to night. Switch to the longer straps when you want to sling it over your shoulders or as a cross-body.

• Materials: Leather or suede
• Colors: Available in a handful of neutral shades
• Size: 15¾"W x 8¾"H x 6"D
• Features: Magnetic closure; removable and adjustable shoulder strap; interior zip pocket

Chloe Medium Woody Linen Tote

There’s something undeniably fun about a designer twist on a classic, and this one’s all about the oversized logo adorning the grosgrain handles. Constructed with durable linen canvas, this market tote has a nice structure and shape that’s reinforced by the contrasting leather trim. It’s just roomy enough to fit a 13-inch laptop and some other small essentials—and the French-girl aesthetic is perfect for transitioning into the warmer months.

• Materials: Linen canvas with leather trim
• Colors: Available in four colors
• Size: 14"W x 11½" H x 4"D
• Features: Open top; interior wall pocket

Bottega Veneta Arco Intrecciato Leather Tote

The Bottega Veneta house weave gets blown up in this top-handle tote rendered in smooth lambskin leather. While the sleek silhouette comes in a family of sizes, the mini version gets our pick for a true everyday bag that we’d carry by hand or slip on as a more easygoing cross-body. It also comes with a detachable leather pouch to stash necessities. Color options are always gorgeous, whether you go with a timeless neutral or saturated pop of color.

• Colors: Available in seven colors
• Size: 9¾"W x 6¼"H x 3¾"D
• Features: Open top with tie closure; detachable leather pouch; optional shoulder strap

Louis Vuitton Neverfull MM Tote

Fashionphile

The Louis Vuitton Neverfull design is an iconic designer handbag. It sets itself apart from other totes by the sleek design and heritage monogram, which was created in 1896 by the French maison. Think of the patterned canvas in contrasting browns and beiges as a neutral of sorts—it goes with everything. With the generous size, open top, and comfortable leather shoulder straps, this carryall lives up to its name and can definitely hold all your daily essentials (yes, including a small laptop). Plus, there’s a contrast lining (which makes finding things easier) and it comes with a removable zipper pouch, which will not only store your valuables but also double as a little clutch. One of the defining details on this style is the side ties: Let them hang loose or cinch them for a slimmer profile.

• Materials: Coated canvas with leather trim and straps
• Colors: In addition to monogram, it’s available in various other signature patterns, as well as colored leather options.
• Size: 12.6"W x 11.4"H x 6.7"D
• Features: Lined; hook closure; interior zipper pocket; removable pouch

Christian Dior Canvas Embroidered Large Dioriviera Toile De

The oft-imitated Dior Book Tote has remained popular since it debuted in 2018 (though it’s based on an archival drawing). Its simple and boxy shape is contrasted with the rich embroidery that resembles the classic logo, toile, or other artisanal motifs. Woven with durable canvas, it’s strong enough to carry a decent load, and the large size is certainly spacious enough for a full day's essentials including a 15-inch laptop. (Side note: It makes for a very fabulous beach tote .)

• Materials: Canvas
• Colors: Available in many prints and colors here
• Size: 16¼"W x 13½"H x 7¼"D
• Features: Open top; spacious interior

Staud Allora Leather Tote Bag

We love this fashion take on the preppy tote. Done in leather with embossed snake trim, it’s sturdy (especially owing to the flat bottom) and lends polish to a timeless design. Shoulder straps are generous, as is the interior, so this can be your one-and-done bag for the day.

• Colors: Two colors
• Size: 17"W x 13"H x 7"D
• Features: Lined; open top with hook closure; internal zipper and slip pockets

Balenciaga Mini Duty Free Canvas Tote

Sometimes you just want your bag to be fun, cute, and not entirely practical. This mini Balenciaga style delivers exactly that. Crisp beige canvas with leather trim is punctuated by the minimalist logo and shiny silver chain handles. Carry it like the shopping bag it was inspired by or attach the convertible strap when you want to go hands-free.

• Colors: Natural/black
• Size: 6½"W x 8"H x 2½"D
• Features: Open top; chain handles; detachable cross-body strap

Altuzarra Large Watermill East/West Straw Tote

A sophisticated twist on the woven straw totes ubiquitous at the beach and farmers market, this structured version is reimagined with cagelike leather details and braided straps. Pair it with a trench coat in the spring, floaty frocks come summer, and you’ll be embracing that effortless ease in no time.

• Materials: Natural straw with leather trim
• Features: Open top with tie closure; unlined; logo leather medallion

Coach Polished Pebble Leather Willow Tote

For quality leather that won’t cost a fortune, turn to Coach. This pebbled-leather tote is the perfect Goldilocks size that’s not too small nor too large. Store your laptop in one of the two main compartments and your valuables in the roomy center zip pocket, which also divides the bag and prevents it from being a black hole. The signature front turn-lock closure finishes the classic look.

• Colors: Available in black and dark stone
• Size: 13½"W x 10¾"H x 5¾"D
• Features: Magnetic snap closure; center zip compartment; protective metal feet

Khaite Lotus Mini Suede Tote

Buttery suede in a soft and slouchy silhouette makes this mini tote very appealing. Scaled down from original larger size , it’s free of any splashy logos or hardware for a discreet version of the designer bag. The design intentionally mimics the movement of a scarf, and it’s unlined, so it’s light and drapes just right.

• Materials: Suede and also available in leather
• Colors: Available in two colors
• Size: 6¼"W x 9½"H x 5"D
• Features: Top handle; open top

Isabel Marant Darwen Stripe Jacquard Tote

Whether you lug it to the beach or on the plane, this lightweight and colorful carryall has you covered. It’s super spacious for anything you might need on a trip, and there are both front and back slip pockets outside for quick access to your phone or passport.

• Materials: Nylon
• Colors: Multicolor
• Size: 16"W x 12½"H x 8"D
• Features: Open top; exterior slip pockets; interior zip pocket

Proenza Schouler White Label Twin Tote

Bloomingdale's

When being two-faced is a good thing: This unique leather tote features black on one side and ivory on the other for a sharp graphic look. The boxy accordion design divides the bag into two separate compartments for easy organization, and there’s a useful zippered wall pocket inside. Contrast stitching also contributes to the cool edgy vibe.

• Colors: Black, white
• Size: 15¾"W x 15"H x 3"D
• Features: Unlined; tie closure; divided compartments; interior zip pocket

Kate Spade Large Bleecker Leather Tote

Workdays can be made a little easier when you have a versatile, goes-with-everything handbag that you don't have to switch out each day. Enter this durable Saffiano leather tote that will stand up to your commute. It has an open top, so you can throw everything inside (including a laptop), while a detachable zip pouch holds your cash and cards when you want to dash out for lunch. A contrast lining lends a delightful touch of color and lets you spot things easily.

• Colors: Available in three colors
• Size: 14"W x 11¾"H x 5½"D
• Features: Open top; detachable zip pouch

By Talia Abbas

By Nykia Spradley

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A Professional Packer Shares the 11 Best Carry-on Bags That Actually Fit a Week's Worth of Clothes — From $30

Never check a bag again.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

There are some travelers who are completely at ease with bringing just two or three outfits on a trip to skip checking a bag . I am not one of them. I like to pack as many options as my carry-on luggage will allow. While this may initially seem to contradict my title as a professional packer — I’m the founder of the Just Packed travel site and corresponding newsletter — the two aren’t necessarily mutually exclusive. Instead, I define an expertly packed carry-on bag as one that contains everything that you may need on your trip (and still has the ability to close).

Before the actual packing process can begin, though, it’s critical to have luggage pieces that offer ample room to ensure its spot in the overhead bin or under the airplane seat in front of you. But, not every travel bag is up for the task. Over my years of research, both on the ground and in the air, these are the 11 roomiest carry-on bags that I've found. They include classic suitcases as well as travel totes, backpacks, and duffels that help you pack a week's worth (and even more) of clothes so you'll have everything that you need for your next trip.

Away Bigger Carry-on

In my line of work, I’m constantly testing different suitcase brands and styles. My 22-inch Away Bigger Carry-on has yet to be topped when it comes to how much it can hold. From the outside, it looks like a basic, albeit sleek , suitcase; there are no bells and whistles. That simplicity, however, is the key to its success. Every inch of the suitcase serves to get the job done (a.k.a. hold as much as possible). By using the interior compression system, I can fit about one week’s worth of clothes without trying too hard — but if I use a few of my tried-and-true packing hacks , I can make it work for a two-week trip.

It's also made with a polycarbonate hardshell, a sturdy material that I always look for when suitcase shopping because of its durability. Trust me, you'll appreciate it when your carry-on gets tossed around during takeoff and landing.

July Carry-on Pro

I might be loyal to my Away suitcase, but the 21-inch July Carry-on Pro recently caught my eye. It has a similar design, but it comes with a few more functional features. The front pocket can fit a 15-inch laptop and an iPad (although I tend to use compartments like this to hold a few items of clothing), and the Y-strap compression system helps keep the contents of the suitcase neatly packed down. I haven’t gotten a test to take mine out for a spin yet, but the luggage brand notes that it can hold six to eight outfits, or between five to seven days’ worth of clothing. 

Amazon Basics 20-inch Hardside Spinner

If you’re looking for a more affordable carry-on suitcase, the highly-rated Amazon Basics 20-inch Hardside Spinner might do the trick. Coming in at under $65 thanks to a limited-time deal, this best-selling carry-on is the perfect choice for anyone who wants a capacious bag but doesn’t travel enough to warrant one with a higher price tag. Several reviewers noted that it’s great for week-long trips with its expansion feature that adds 15 percent more packing space, the interior organizer, and the three smaller zippered pockets. 

MZ Wallace Deluxe Large Metro Tote

Overpackers who are actively trying to avoid bringing checked bags on their travels need the MZ Wallace Deluxe Large Metro Tote in their luggage repertoire. Not only is it, hands down, the most spacious tote that I’ve ever used, but it’s also pliable and filled with different pockets and compartments to keep everything organized in a designated spot. I think of it like a Mary Poppins-style bag. On a recent weekend trip, it served as my only piece of luggage, and I had no issue zipping it up while it held my pajamas, two outfits, a pair of sneakers, my laptop, a small toiletry bag, and a collection of other miscellaneous items (chargers, snacks, a hairbrush, etc). But when you're flying, use this as your personal bag along with your carry-on suitcase so you can get away with bringing more clothes on board. 

When buying a new travel tote to use as a carry-on, I always recommend paying close attention to how the bag is designed (and how it will keep your belongings secure). Does it zip, tie, or latch everything inside? The exact closure method, and how it’s implemented, can significantly affect how much can be carried inside. This one has a zip-top design, so I know that it will keep everything safe from spilling out if I put it in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of me.

L.L. Bean Medium Boat and Tote Zip-Top

The classic L.L. Bean Boat and Tote comes in a variety of sizes and colors, and there’s even the option to choose one with or without a zip-top closure. The extra-large tote is technically the largest, but I personally use the medium-sized zip-top version. Inside, I’ll fit my toiletry bag (which tends to take up too much space in my suitcase), laptop, chargers, a water bottle, and a smaller crossbody bag. I’ve also never had any issues fitting it under the seat in front of me on a plane, and it’s sturdy enough to stay upright during take-off or turbulence. 

Oeihuivt Weekender Bag

The Oeihuivt Weekender Bag is the more affordable twin of the steeper-priced duffel bag that I usually use. According to the brand, the bag can hold between two and four days' worth of essentials inside its six pockets, main compartment, and roomy shoe pouch. If I’m traveling with just a pair of shoes on my feet, I’ll often use the shoe pouch as a hack to store more clothes; it makes the perfect spot for my socks, Dopp kit, a sweatshirt, and a pair of jeans. 

Paravel Foldable Travel Duffel Bag

I always think of my Foldable Travel Duffel Bag from Oprah-loved brand Paravel as my “in case of packing emergencies” bag. On a trip to Jackson Hole last year, I knew that there was a possibility that I’d be leaving with a few more items than I’d arrived with — so I tucked this duffel into my suitcase to use on the journey home. It’s one of those bags that’s deceptively roomy, and it held the hiking boots, sneakers, puffer vest, and several sweaters that had been displaced from my suitcase by my new Wyoming purchases. In addition to being an M.V.P. for bringing back souvenirs, it can also be used as a tote when you're at your destination, and even a beach bag if needed. 

Bjlfs Weekender Carry-on

Some trips require a do-it-all kind of bag, one that can handle whatever you need it to hold. Enter the Bjlfs Weekender Carry-on. Its exact dimensions have it measuring in at around 10.7 inches by 22 inches by 7 inches, which means that it has more than enough room for a three-day weekend trip's wardrobe — and you’ll have no trouble fitting it in most overhead bins or under the seat in front of you should you use it as a personal bag. Interested in seeing how it would perform on a longer trip? According to one reviewer , they paired it with a small carry-on suitcase for an 11-day trip, and it was perfect.

Cuyana Classic Easy Zipper Tote

My vast collection of travel bags waxes and wanes on a regular basis, but there are a few extra-roomy styles that maintain their starting positions on my roster. One of those is my Cuyana Classic Easy Zipper Tote. The leather bag is a staple for work travel, and it holds more than you’d think upon initial glance. If you pair it with a carry-on for your next flight, you'll definitely be able to fit everything that you need for your trip. 

A foolproof way to wisely choose a spacious carry-on bag is to identify its purpose. As one of my allowed carry-on bags, this roomy tote is always reserved for my laptop, which means that it has to be strong and wide enough to hold my heavy, 16-inch MacBook Pro and my other essentials. I’ve gone on several trips where it’s managed to perfectly carry my laptop, a couple of books, an extra layer, a water bottle, and even a Dopp kit or crossbody bag.

Roam Continental Backpack

When I say that the Roam Continental Backpack holds just as much as a duffel bag, I mean it. It first accompanied me on a trip to Venice, and I was immediately blown away by the capacity of each compartment. There’s an exterior laptop compartment, which holds all of my chargers, a front pocket (and is great for snacks and smaller toiletries), and a large main compartment. The latter fit a pair of shoes, the rest of my toiletries, a light jacket, and a small purse. There are also two water bottle holders on the backpack’s sides; I used one for my Yeti and the other for a couple pairs of socks. 

Lo & Sons Large Rowledge Backpack

Lo & Sons

I’ve found that the Lo & Sons Large Rowledge Backpack is slightly less bulky than the above Roam style, but somehow, it’s almost just as spacious. If I’m using it as a secondary carry-on bag, the backpack always has extra room; if I’m bringing it on a short weekend trip, I typically don’t need to bring another bag. By using the rolling folding method, I can fit three to four outfits in the larger compartment, and the front compartment is perfect for a travel-sized toiletry bag and other essential accessories. 

Bagsmart Hanging Toiletry Bag

This isn't a piece of luggage, but it's an essential item for making everything fit in a carry-on. There are a few things that I’ll sacrifice when packing — like extra pairs of shoes or an additional coat — but my beauty routine is not one of them. I’m a stickler for using my specific skin and hair care products, even while traveling, so I require a toiletry bag that can hold everything. The large Bagsmart Hanging Toiletry Bag can carry all of my skincare, shampoo and conditioner, makeup, and other hygiene products. If it’s packed in my carry-on, I just have to make sure to use my TSA-sized products or transfer my liquids to my trusty Cadence capsules .

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The 11 best convertible backpack totes of 2024, tested and reviewed

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If your closet is filled with bags hiding inside of other bags that rarely ever get used, it might be time to streamline your accessories. Instead of hanging on to multiple different bags for multiple different functions, why not opt for a more versatile pack that works for both commuting and traveling? That's where the backpack/tote hybrid comes in. 

Backpacks that seamlessly transition into totes are a go-to staple if you need a multi-purpose bag that suits an on-the-go lifestyle. By having a few options on how to wear your bag, you can solve a lot of problems, from bulbous backpacks not fitting on crowded trains, to the one-sided shoulder strain of carrying a shoulder bag. A dual-purpose bag also makes for the perfect everyday and travel accessory, meaning your work bag can also moonlight as your new carry-on.

The best part? Some of these backpack and tote bag combos are so smartly designed, you can stow away straps when you're not using them or easily transition between different wears without having to detach or reattach anything. And to make things even easier, we've rounded up some of the best options out there so you're sure to find something that suits you.

For more bag coverage, see our guides on the best tote bags the best backpacks , and the best work bags for women .

Best overall

When it comes to travel-smart bags, there are few that are more cleverly designed than Lo & Son's Edgemont bag . This 15-liter capacity bag is incredibly versatile, coming with a removable insert that can fit a 13-inch laptop with two interior mesh pockets to comfortably house a water bottle or umbrella. Stash pockets on the side allow for discreet-yet-easily accessible spots to keep passports, documents, or your phone, while a handy and detachable key ring makes sure your keys stay on you. The best part? The minimalist bag is made from eco-friendly materials like high-density polyester created from plastic bottles.

When we reviewed the Lo & Sons Edgemont, we were absolutely obsessed with how well it works for travel. Its size fits perfectly under airline seats, while the suitcase sleeve allows you to hook the bag on top of your carry-on so you can wheel it around the airport. The extra comfy straps that transition between a backpack and a tote are also padded with memory foam, so you never feel any discomfort, no matter how stressful travel gets.

For more of our thoughts on Lo & Sons, see our full review of our favorite Lo & Sons bags.

Best budget

If you're in a rush to find a versatile travel bag at a decent price, the CYUREAY Convertible Backpack is an excellent option. Coming in at just under $30, this Amazon favorite comes with a USB charging port stored inside the bag, allowing you to charge your phone on-the-go. The water-resistant fabric means you can bring this pack along with you during unpredictable weather, while the large internal capacity allows you to travel with everything you need, including a laptop as large as 15.6-inches. Shoulder straps are reinforced with padding to ensure comfort when you go into backpack mode. There's even a suitcase strap on the back so you can easily slide your bag onto your carry-on as you breeze through the airport.

Best for work

The perfect work bag needs to be both stylish and functional, especially during longer commutes, and the Aurora by KREYA is just that. If you're on the go, and need to quickly transition your backpack into a tote, just pull on the X-shaped handles to seamlessly transform your backpack straps into a bag handle. Then, when your arm gets tired and it's time to distribute the weight of your bag more evenly, pull down on your straps to carry it as a backpack. 

In addition to its sleek leather design, the Aurora features a main zippered compartment that can comfortably fit a 14-inch laptop. An interior pocket makes the perfect home for your cell phone, or you can store your phone in the exterior pocket to reach it with ease. Metal snaps on the side of the bag help it to expand when you're carrying a bit extra. It even comes with a carefully crafted dust bag for storage so your leather stays clean and supple.

Best for travel

At the top of our list is the Vapor Convertible Tote Backpack because it's sustainably made and functions incredibly well as both a tote bag and a backpack. Padded backpacks straps make for comfortable carrying and stow away easily into an exterior back pocket. Ready to go from tote-mode to backpack-mode again? The tote straps, which are the perfect length for shoulder wear, stow away seamlessly in the same pocket.

Because the pack is made from eco-friendly, hard-wearing materials like recycled nylon fibers, it's bound to last for years, even if you always take advantage of its spacious 18-liter capacity. But with the extensive interior comes a variety of smartly designed compartments to ensure all the gear you pack with you never gets lost. A hidden external zip pocket makes for easy access to items you want to keep concealed, while two tri-cut lined interior slip pockets house valuables like your phone, sunglasses, or Airpods without scratching them. Within the main interior compartment you'll find a padded laptop sleeve that can fit laptops and tablets up to 15 inches long, along with all of your other necessities. The totepack even meets TSA standards for carry-ons, so it makes for the perfect travel bag as well.

Best splurge

Why compromise on style when opting for versatility when you can have both? When we reviewed The Senreve Maestra Bag , we found that this somewhat pricey bag is absolutely worth the price. It is effortlessly sleek and fashion-forward, made with 100% leather in both pebbled and long-grain finishes, featuring a smooth suede interior. With the structured, water-repellent exterior comes plenty of compartments on the interior featuring eight different places to store your valuables including a padded laptop compartment, a hidden back compartment, and several small side pockets. 

The Maestra Bag takes that versatility a step further with four possible ways to style the bag – it can be worn as a tote, crossbody, satchel, or backpack, depending on your mood. While the top features a flap and the Maestra's signature studded belt closure, the bag also has an interior zipper to keep all your belongings safe.

Most stylish

Speaking of sleek, streamlined style, if you're looking to make a statement at the office or during your commute, reach for the Cole Haan Grand Ambition Convertible Backpack. Made with pebbled leather which is known for being more scratch-resistant, this structured bag can be worn as a backpack, crossbody bag, or shoulder bag by adjusting the leather straps. A large front pocket helps you access your items quickly while a zippered back compartment keeps valuables hidden. 

On the interior, you'll find a water-resistant lining featuring a separate, padded laptop sleeve along with a larger main compartment and several smaller pockets to house items like your phone or e-reader. The bag also comes with a dust bag to store it and keep it clean on the days you're not showing it off.

Best on Amazon

Tote Pack is no different. Coming in at under $60, this bag can carry a day's-worth of items whether you're traveling or hiking, thanks to its 13-liter capacity. The main zippered compartment features a dedicated laptop sleeve that can fit a computer up to 16 inches in length, while the exterior features two smaller zippered pockets to store items like your phone. You can feel confident that your pack is also made from sustainable materials, with the pack's outer fabric created from a durable and water-repellant recycled nylon that gives the bag its vintage feel.

Best leather

Italian-made luxury meets effortless versatility with the M. Gemi Laura Convertible Backpack. Made from supple tumbled calf leather, the bag's slouchy silhouette offers a touch of style and is roomy enough to fit a laptop, cosmetics bag, water bottle, and any of your other essentials. Inside you'll find a lightweight, linen lining along with a zippered compartment to keep valuables hidden and two open pockets for easy access.

The best part of this bag, however, is how easily it can transition between a backpack and a tote: simply pull up on the straps when you want to wear it on your shoulder, or pull down on both side straps to convert it into a backpack.

Best for school

There's no need to choose between a backpack or tote for the school year when the Timbuk2 Scholar Convertible Tote Backpack allows you to have both. Designed for the needs of students, this bag features adjustable backpack straps that tuck away into your pack when you want to transition into tote-mode.

The exterior has two zippered pockets, one bigger and one smaller, to fit a variety of necessities you need quick access to. Dual side pockets are perfect for toting around your water bottle, umbrella, or both, while the larger interior compartment comes with an internal slip pocket that can house a 13-inch laptop. With the 900D recycled polyester exterior, you can be sure that this bag is durable enough to last the whole academic year.

For more of our favorite school bag picks, see our guide to the best college backpacks .

If sustainably made accessories are your priority, opt for the Sherpani Soleil AT Bag. The incredibly durable, water-resistant fabric has been made from 40 repurposed plastic bottles, with all the featured detailing made from vegan leather. The bag is also lightweight and features a removable strap that can be adjusted to tote- or crossbody-length, in addition to the bag's two backpack straps.

There are few unique safety features that come with this bag that make it a handy travel essential. A chair-lock loop at the back of the bag allows you to attach your bag to your chair for added security. The main compartment also has a clip lock to prevent valuables from being stolen. For even more security, the bag has been designed with an anti-slash fabric at the bottom and on the main strap, so you can feel confident your belongings will remain concealed.

Best water-repellant

For a weather-resistant pack made for both travel and outdoor activities, we recommend the Kånken Totepack by Fjallraven. Made from a combination of organic cotton, recycled polyester, and hard-wearing Vinylon F fabric, the backpack tote combo is water-resistant, wind-resistant, and quick-drying if you get caught in a sudden downpour. The bag also features webbed straps that convert easily from a tote to a backpack without the need for reattachment. There's even a shorter top handle for quick grab-and-go access.

As far as compartments go, this totepack has a main zippered compartment fitted with an internal laptop sleeve pocket that can fit a computer up to 13 inches in length. On the exterior, you also have a smaller zippered front pocket for easy access to your items, along with two open side pockets for water bottles or umbrellas. The most unique feature, however, is the removable seat pad you can find stored in the main compartment, so you can take a break wherever you are.

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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• Moscow Tours

Our 20 Best Moscow Tours of 2022

Join us on an unforgettable tour to Moscow, the capital of Russia. Imagine visiting Red Square, St. Basil’s the Kremlin and more. Moscow is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and one of Russia’s most historical. All of our tours to Moscow are fully customizable and can be adjusted to fit any budget. Our most popular tours are listed below. Please click on the tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page. You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

Accommodation

PRIVATE TOUR

A Week in Moscow

This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

Group Tour Moscow Break by Intourist

Russia's capital has so much to offer, from the Kremlin and the Metro to the Old Arbat street and the Tretyakov Gallery. Besides these sites, you will also visit a fascinating country estate which today is quite off the beaten path, Gorky Estate, where the Soviet leader Lenin spent the last months of his life.

Kolomenskoye Tour with transport

The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was...

Tours by car

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Armory Tour

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury...

Walking tours

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals, Armory, Diamond Fund Tour

Old Arbat walking tour

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the...

Tour to Sergiev Posad with transport

Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra)...

Tour to Kuskovo with transport

The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history...

Tour to Tsaritsyno with transport

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic...

Moscow Metro and Old Arbat Tour

The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion and vodka tasting)

Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone...

Mikhail Bulgakov Apartment Museum

This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's...

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Diamond Fund Tour

The State Museum of Lev Tolstoy Tour

Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy...

Novodevichy Convent Tour with transport

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure...

City Tour with Visit to St. Basils & Red Sq. with transport

Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will...

City Tour of Moscow

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous...

Moscow Metro walking tour

Kremlin, Red Square and Cathedrals Tour

KGB Tour with transport

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to...

Soviet and Post-Soviet Moscow Tour

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened...

Tretyakov State Gallery Tour

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and...

Jewish Heritage of Moscow Tour

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion only)

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

Tours to Moscow

Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

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2024 Best Hotels in Moscow

Hotels ranked on industry awards, guest reviews and hotel class ratings

Unbiased content created by U.S. News editors

Photo tours of select hotels by local experts

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Discover the best hotel for you:

Near SVO airport

Hotel Metropol Moscow

Radisson Collection Hotel, Moscow

Hotel Baltschug Kempinski Moscow

Lotte Hotel Moscow - The Leading Hotels of the World

Swissotel Krasnye Holmy Moscow

InterContinental Moscow - Tverskaya, an IHG Hotel

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Radisson Blu Olympiyskiy Hotel

StandArt Design Hotel

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Travel Guide

Moscow's opulence and high culture is a sight to be seen. Forget what you learned about Russia in grade school. This lavish capital of a formerly communist nation has fully embraced the luxuries, excesses and decadence of Western capitalism. Like many former Soviet countries, Mother Russia struggles to successfully confront issues of widespread poverty, alcoholism, failing healthcare, and environmental protection. But Moscow has burgeoned into one of the most expensive, exclusive and largest travel destinations in the world. It comes complete with world-class museums, magnificent palaces, $1,000-a-night hotels, "face-control" nightclubs and internationally-renowned restaurants. Don't think you can afford Moscow? Don't be afraid. You can still find affordable deals if you are vigilant. This metropolis has a big and bold character and grandiose setting that's definitely worth getting to know.

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