best light travel tote

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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.

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

Pack your bags.

In This Article

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

Why Trust Byrdie

Byrdie / Brian Kopinski

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

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

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

Best Overall

Quince revive nylon large tote.

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

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

Best Budget

Baggu duck bag.

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

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

Best Carry-On

Béis east to west tote.

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

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

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

Best Zippered

Longchamp tote bag.

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

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

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

Best Weekender

Mz wallace large metro tote deluxe.

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.

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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The 24 Best Travel Tote Bags for Your Next Big Trip

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

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

It's no secret that we're Team Carry-on here at T&C , and while we lover a good rolling suitcase , there's something to be said for the classic travel tote to take your packing job from good to great. With overhead space eternally getting tighter on airplanes, the ability to tuck a bag comfortably under the seat in front of you can instantly lower your blood pressure on those stressful travel days—or, simply use them as a way to maximize your "personal item" space by tucking your handbag inside a tote to pack a few extra must-haves . For shorter trips, a tote can offer plenty of space for a long-weekend's worth of outfits, no luggage dragging necessary, and they're far less obtrusive if you're say, leaving for the airport from the office or grabbing a bite at a restaurant before you head to your train. And, of course, a packable tote is your best friend if you get halfway through a trip only to realize your suitcase isn't going zip around all of your shopping finds.

T&C Tried and True

Medium metro tote deluxe.

Separate Compartment for Organization

Lo & sons catalina deluxe tote.

Luxurious Essential

Cuyana easy travel tote.

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

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

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

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Tote

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

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

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

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

lululemon Packable Tote Bag

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

Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote

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

ETRONIK Travel Duffel Bag with USB Charging Port

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

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

The ReNew Transit Weekender

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

Bluboon Travel Tote Bag

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

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

Madewell The Shopper Tote

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

Boat and Tote

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

Caraa Studio Tote

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

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

Béis The Convertible Weekend Bag

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

Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Packable Nylon Tote

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

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

Carhartt Legacy Tote East/West

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

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

Revive Nylon Large Tote

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

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

Dagne Dover Jemi Tote

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

Naghedi Jet Setter Small Tote

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

Scout Travel Bag Large

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

Barbour Medium Travel Explorer Leather Tote Bag

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

More: The 13 Best Luxury Luggage for Traveling in Style

WONHOX Large Travel Tote Bag

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

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

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

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Editor Approved Carry-Ons for International Trips

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

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

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

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

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

🤔 What is a tote Bag?

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

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

13. Dilan Medium Tote By Calvin Klein

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

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

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

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

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

Last update on 2024-08-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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

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

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

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

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

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

Last update on 2024-08-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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

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

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

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

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

• This ultra lightweight, compact carry on tote is…
• This bag has polyester fabric with stain…
• This carry on has a rear strap that allows secure…
• Case Dimensions: 11 in x 18 in x 8 in, Overall…

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

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

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

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

• Easy to haul and easy to clean, the Camino…
• Big mouth opening – always keeps your gear…
• THICKSKIN SHELL – puncture and abrasion resistant
• HITCHPOINT GRID – Easily attach pretty much…

Also Read : Best Amazon Fanny Packs For Travel

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

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

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

• [Material]: Top Layer Cowhide Leather with durable…
• [Dimensions]: (L)9.1″ x (W)5.3″ x (H)12.1″…
• [Pocket Structure]: Inner structure is the…
• [Feature]: Two shoulder straps design, one of them…

Also Read : Best Crossbody Bags For Travel

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

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

• Top zip access to main compartment with integrated…
• Dual webbing strap over-the-shoulder tote bag…
• Front panel shove-it pocket for stashing small…
• Stretch power mesh shoulder strap sleeve for…

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

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

• 【Premium Material】: S-ZONE Weekender Bag is…
• 【Large Capacity Travel Bag】: Women’s travel…
• 【Metal Studs Design & Shoe Compartment】: 5…
• 【Carry on Bags for Airplanes】: Back side…

Also Read : Best Travel Scarves For Men And Women

Introducing the perfect companion for your active lifestyle – the Travel Bag with Separate Shoe Compartment.

This stylish and multifunctional tote bag is designed to meet all your needs, whether you’re heading to the gym, embarking on a weekend getaway, or participating in outdoor sports.

Available in a chic pale pink color, this bag combines fashion with functionality, ensuring you travel with ease and style.

• ❥[High Quality and Durability]: Travel bag made…
• ❥[With Wet/Dry and Shoe Compartment]: Overnight…
• ❥[Stylish and Multifunctional Design]: Duffel…
• ❥[Large Capacity Storage Space]: Organizer bag…

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

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

• Lightweight nylon with leather trim, “Comes folded…
• Top zip closure with outer snap tab, 1 Interior…
• Lightweight nylon with leather trim…
• 11″W x 9 ¾”H x 5 ½”D. (Interior capacity:…

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

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

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

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

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

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

• MID CAPACITY carryall utility tote bag for women,…
• HIGH QUALITY WATER-RESISTANT Washed Nylon exterior…
• POCKETS. Five (5) mesh interior pockets help keep…
• TROLLEY SLEEVE and slip pocket. On the outside is…

Also Read : Awesome Face Masks For Travel

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

• Two webbing straps
• Main compartment with inner zip pocket
• Waterproof material
• Large main compartment

Also Read : Best Leggings For Travel

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

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

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

• EXTERNAL FEATURES: Zip entry to center…
• INTERNAL FEATURES: Tablet pocket, 3 media pockets,…
• MATERIAL: Nylon
• DIMENSIONS: Dimensions in inches: 11″ x 17″ x 7″;…

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

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

• Machine washable microfiber – made from sleek &…
• Everyday use – vera bradley tote bags are perfect…
• Pack in style – with printed polyester lining & 6…
• Essentials at your fingertips – the exterior…

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

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

• High quality faux leather
• Interior tablet slot, 2 interior slip pockets, 1…
• Enhanced interior function & organization

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Classy & Professional Laptop Women Bag: Made of…
• Perfect Size Laptop Tote Bag:Spacious in design…
• Roomy Compartment Computer Bag for Women:Laptop…
• Stylish & Widely-Used Tote Handbag:Designed…

Below are some basic benefits for tote bags.

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

🙋🏻‍♀️ FAQs About Best Lightweight Travel Tote Bags

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Rahul Siddharth

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

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15 Best Travel Tote Bags for Your Next Getaway

Perfect for all your in-flight essentials and more.

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

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

As frequent flyers, we’ve tested and gone through a fair share of travel backpacks , weekender bags , and designer luggage to find the ultimate travel companions worth lugging through any airport, train station, or bus terminal. There’s no question that designer totes are one of the most must-have bags out there, but those that offer ample space, organizational features, and special compartments for functionality can truly enhance your travels in ways you’d never imagine. “The perfect travel tote is functional, easy to carry, and versatile,” says Maud Barrionuevo, head of buying and marketplace for 24S.com . “You can wear it to catch a flight, as well as throughout your trip, and it is essentially the fashion piece to rely on in all circumstances for chic yet effortless style.”

Best Overall Tote

Dagne dover landon neoprene carryall bag.

Best Sustainable Tote

Cuyana recycled weekender.

Best Colorful Tote

Beis travel the weekender in black.

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

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

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

Colors: Scout Tan, Domino Black

Material: Neoprene, mesh, recycled REPREVE®

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

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

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

Colors: Cappuccino, Black

Material: Recycled plastic

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

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

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

Colors: 9 options

Material: Poly canvas, vegan leather, nylon

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

MZ Wallace Deluxe Large Metro Tote

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

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

Colors: Black

Material: Nylon

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

Saint Laurent Women's Rive Gauche Canvas Tote

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

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

Colors: Ivory

Material: Cotton, jute, polyester, leather, brass

Marni x Carhartt Floral Print Tote Bag

Two of our favorite brands had a baby!

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

Color: Forest Green/Stone White, Black/Sun

Material: Cotton

Paravel Weekender

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

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

Material: EcoCraft canvas, recycled vegan leather

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

Baggallini Carryall Expandable Packable Tote

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

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

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

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

Madewell The Essential Overnight Bag in Leather

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

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

Colors: English Saddle, True Black

Material: Leather

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

Modern Picnic The Tote

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

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

Colors: Black, Black Croc, Cream, Cream Croc

Material: Vegan leather

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

Marc Jacobs The Medium Mesh Tote Bag

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

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

Colors: Blackout, Candy Pink

Material: Mesh, nylon, neoprene, leather

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

Naghedi St. Barths Large Woven Tote

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

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

Colors: 7 options

Material: Terylene

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

Calpak Luka Duffel

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

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

Colors: 20 options

Material: Polyester

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

M. Gemi The Laura Convertible Backpack

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

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

Colors: Warm Gray, Tan, Navy, Black

Material: Italian leather

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

Baggu Travel Cloud Bag

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

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

Colors: Nasturium, Extra Pink, Bay Laurel, Black

Material: Recycled nylon

Meet the Expert

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

Why Trust ELLE

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

Amanda Le is a contributing writer at Hearst Magazines , where she covers fashion, beauty, lifestyle, and entertainment. In her free time, you can find her thrifting her next outfit, traveling to new cities, crushing a boxing class, or eating her way through NYC!

Meg (she/her) is the associate fashion commerce editor at ELLE.com , where she specializes in shopping stories spanning the fashion, home, and lifestyle categories. Over the past three years, she has devoted countless hours to researching brands, testing hundreds (maybe even thousands!) of products, and deep-diving into market and consumer trends. Her favorite job responsibilities consist of co-writing the monthly series Same Same But Different and curating the fashion market for ELLE Escapes . Meg graduated magna cum laude from the Missouri School of Journalism with an emphasis on magazine editing. In 2020, one of her feature stories in the service article category was recognized by the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication. The year prior, the Society of Professional Journalists named voxmagazine.com “Best Affiliated Magazine” in its Mark of Excellence Awards, when she was on staff. Meg’s stories have appeared on Cosmopolitan, Town & Country, Harper’s Bazaar , and Good Housekeeping , among many other outlets. Her personal passions include travel, buffalo sauce, and gardening. You can find her in New York, where she lives, or on Instagram , where she also lives. She will never stop hoping for a One Direction reunion tour. 

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The Best Travel Tote Bags Stylishly Hold It All

Picks from Bottega Veneta, Rimowa, Cuyana, and more

Plane, train, or automobile—however you’re planning to head out of town for the weekend, you’ll need the best travel tote with you, to house the essentials. Having used a tote as a carry-on to load up my headphones and neck pillow, and another as my only bag for a long weekend away, I can vouch for the versatility tote bags can provide when you’re on the go. Look in my closet and you’ll find a handful of options, ranging from a luxury Celine carryall to a practical Cuyana bag.

Best Top-Zip Leather Travel Tote Bag

Cuyana classic easy zipper tote.

Best Black Travel Tote Bag

Caraa nimbus medium.

Best Natural-Fiber Travel Tote

Hunting season the tote in woven natural fiber.

“A tote bag is your closest travel companion,” says Danielle Corona, founder and creative director of Hunting Season . “The most important features are size and capacity, [that it’s] comfortable to carry—and of course, it has to look good.” Corona—who is traveling to France and Turkey this summer—says that when she’s on the go, she always has a laptop, books, sunglasses, and makeup in her travel bag, along with all of her mom essentials. “Because I have kids, it has to be a ‘Mary Poppins’ tote, that I can stuff with snacks, colored pencils, sketch books, wipes …” A durable travel tote is designed to do it all.

With a range of sizes, strap lengths, and materials, the list ahead offers a comprehensive set of options for weekend trips, longer getaways (with a designer suitcase , of course), and anything in between. With summer getaways on the horizon, you’ll be ready to travel in style, without having to worry that your bag will slide under the seat in front of you.

The long, lean profile of this leather travel tote easily slips under a seat without a fight, and it has a top zipper to secure belongings. Plus, it comes in a range of colors and varying silhouettes to suit all preferences.

Dimensions: 12.3" x 21.6" x 5.1"

Colors: Terra-cotta, black, caramel, dark olive, and more

What reviewers are saying: “I’ve been using the original classic zipper tote for years for travel, and decided to give the new tote a try. I like the new straps, which are easier on the shoulder when I’ve got heavy items to carry, and I love the color (Biscuit). I like having the zipper for keeping my belongings in place when passing through airport security machines and for stowing under the seat in front of me on the airplane.”

I fell in love with Caraa’s durable-yet-sleek recycled nylon bags while trying out stylish diaper bags , and ever since, I’ve been a devotee. I love the rounded silhouette of this spacious but not overly large tote. It feels unique, is super luxe-looking, and offers tons of function, from its lightweight padded design to the 10-plus compartments and multiple straps.

Dimensions: 12.5" x 15.75" x 7"

Colors: Black

What reviewers are saying: “Excellent travel bag. I took it on a recent trip and it was perfect. Love the mesh pockets, the passport pocket and lab top pocket. Just a perfect travel companion!”

“Woven by hand and accented with one-of-a-kind tagua seeds, the tote is a master class in modern travel style,” says Corona. The fiber material is lightweight yet durable, great for days when you’re packing relatively light and need a bag that can make it through work and travel with you.

Dimensions: 19.6" x 11.8" x 7"

Colors: Stripe, brown, natural

Paravel Weekender

Timeless elegance meets modern durability and function in Paravel’s consciously crafted canvas carryall. (Note the protective feet.) It’s monogrammable too—so you’ll never mix it up with another traveler’s bag.

Dimensions: 15" x 15" x 8"

Colors: Tan, black, blue

What reviewers are saying: “This bag looks like the Hermès garden bag. I took it to Sardinia and Sicily and was stopped repeatedly to ask who makes it!”

Calpak Luka Duffel

This bag was my introduction to Calpak, and needless to say, I’m obsessed. It’s so lightweight and spacious, with a secure top zipper, side zip pocket, and sleeve to stay put on my roller bag. I tend to be a heavy packer, especially when attempting only to carry on. I can fit so much in this bag, which fits easily under an airplane seat, even when it’s filled to the brim.

Dimensions: 12" x 16" x 7"

Colors: Chocolate, black, rose, oatmeal, and more

What reviewers are saying: “This bag is more spacious than I imagined it would be. I was shocked how much I could pack in it. I love the shape, structure, color, fabric, luggage sleeve, pockets, and how lightweight it is. It’s truly an amazing piece! My 15 inch MacBook even fits in the outside pocket. It’s a tight fit, but it’s a fit. Worth every penny!”

Prada Re-Edition 1978 Large Re-Nylon and Saffiano Tote

There’s no designer tote bag more durable or beloved than Prada’s Re-Nylon. The black is fail-safe and great for travel, no question. But I can’t help but love the beige as a fresh alternative.

Dimensions: 11.4" x 13.8" x 5.9"

Colors: Black, navy, cork beige

Naghedi St. Barths Large Tote Bag

Flexible and elegant, Naghedi’s woven neoprene tote is a stunning-yet-durable bag for travel and comes with a coordinating pouch for small essentials. Spacious enough for plenty of snacks, a backup layer, and a travel pillow, it’s a year-round winner and can double as a water-resistant beach bag—a true do-it-all wonder.

Dimensions: 22" x 12.5" x 8"

Colors: Olive, black, white, tan, pink, and more

What reviewers are saying: “I purchased this bag one week ago in the Olive large size, and have not put it down since. It is beautiful and gets many compliments. Perfect bag at a great price.”

Dior Large Toujours Bag

Dior’s Toujours bag was a practical standout on the Spring/Summer 2023 runway, making it the ultimate travel companion. The thoughtful details start with the spacious interior compartment and a matching pouch to organize essentials, and end with a leather strap closure to keep items secure, plus adjustable handles for versatile carrying by hand or over the shoulder.

Dimensions: 14.5" x 10.5" x 7.5"

Métier Incognito Cabas Large Suede Tote

Métier is the ultimate for premium suede and leather travel bags. Thoughtfully designed, each bag (like this rich tan version) features multiple interior compartments with a minimal, elevated aesthetic.

Dimensions: 9.4" x 13" x 15.7"

Colors: Brown

Dagne Dover Kal Drawstring Tote

Talk about utility. This drawstring tote bag is not only on-trend with the padded design, but also seriously pocketed, with a perfect spot for every one of your travel essentials. Computer? Check. Wallet and ID? Yep. A water bottle? Oh, yes. (Obviously, staying hydrated in flight is crucial.)

Dimensions: 15" x 4.5" x 16"

Colors: Cream, black, olive, violet, and more

Louis Vuitton Neverfull MM

Louis Vuitton’s Neverfull monogram tote bag is iconic in every sense of the word. I love this new khaki-green iteration—it comes with a removable pouch—as a standout update to the spacious, side-laced silhouette.

Dimensions: 12.2" x 11" x 5.5"

Colors: Khaki, cream, black

Lululemon City Adventurer Tote Bag 27L

Raise your hand if your packing was flawless en route to your destination, but can somehow barely be contained on the way home. Enter the expandable travel tote bag by Lululemon, featuring an extremely useful zippered gusset to adjust the capacity of your carry-on. Genius.

Dimensions: 20.5" x 7.1" x 12.6"

Colors: Trench, black

What reviewers are saying: “I loved this bag so much that I bought one for my cousin, too! I use it as a travel bag, as a diaper bag, and as a tote bag when I am walking around in Rome. It expands the perfect amount to fit more stuff in when I travel home from a destination and it has lots of great pockets for all my AirPods, lip glosses, and ID!”

Bottega Veneta Large Flip Flap

Is this the most functional travel tote out there? Perhaps not. But it’s one of the most gorgeous. Crafted from soft nubuck leather, it’s incredibly spacious inside and completed with a brand-signature Intrecciato leather zippered pocket—perfect for your ID, wallet, and phone. (P.S. There should be even bigger Bottega travel bags available this spring.)

Dimensions: 12" x 14.9" x 11"

Colors: Green, brown

July Carryall Tote

I love the ease of a tote that sits comfortably on my shoulder and stays put while I’m dashing through airports. And this one checks so many other boxes, too: from the zippered top to the padded laptop sleeve compartment and hidden passport pocket with a magnetic closure.

Dimensions: 16.5" x 13" x 6.3"

Colors: Black, navy

What reviewers are saying: “This versatile tote has been an absolute game-changer for my daily activities. The design is not only fashionable but also incredibly functional, providing ample space to carry all my essentials effortlessly.”

Rimowa Vertical Tote

Business trippers and light travelers, this upright tote is for you. It features an easy-access external pocket for laptops or other electronics (so key for getting through security), as well as a roomy interior and travel strap for securing it to a roller.

Dimensions: 5.75" x 14.96" x 1.97"

Colors: Black, petal pink

Celine Cabas Drawstring Cuir Triomphe

If you favor elegant leather totes, look no further than this drawstring style by Celine for travel. It’s the type of tote that transitions seamlessly from the workweek (with polished dresses and tailoring) to weekend getaways (with a matching sweatsuit and sneakers).

Dimensions: 17" x 11" x 7"

Colors: Tan

Antler Chelsea Weekender in Woodland Green

This minimal weekender tote bag is spot-on for unfussy travelers. It’s made of water-resistant nylon, with well-considered details like a separate shoe storage compartment, detachable shoulder strap, and a padded pocket to keep a laptop accessible yet well protected.

Dimensions: 20.87" x 12.6" x 9.06"

Colors: Green, navy

What reviewers are saying: “A useful shapes and size bag with handy pockets and slot to fix soundly onto my luggage. I have just used it for the first time and was very pleased.”

Everlane The Luxe Italian Leather Tote

Sometimes, all you need or want is a beautifully crafted leather tote bag without too many bells and whistles. Everlane has you covered with this roomy and sleek leather tote, featuring two over-the-shoulder straps, an interior slip pocket (to cradle your phone, ID, and lip balm), and a leather-covered metal snap button closure.

Dimensions: 20.8" x 15.3" x 7"

Colors: Beech, cognac, black

What reviewers are saying: “Love the size! Fits everything I need be it work or for traveling. The leather quality & workmanship is top notch! Exactly what I was looking for!”

MZ Wallace Large Metro Tote

MZ Wallace is a go-to for well-made tote bags like this quilted nylon style. Perfect for travel, it’s fitted with several interior and exterior pockets, reinforced padded handles, an adjustable crossbody strap, protective feet, a luggage sleeve, and three detachable pouches.

Dimensions: 14.5" × 11" × 14.5"

Colors: Metallic, black

What reviewers are saying: “I own a couple of these bags in different colors and I find them to be the perfect gift for friends and family who are traveling. They are always blown away by the quality, looks, and functionality! The three extra travel bags are a fun surprise too!”

Chanel Large Deauville Tote

If luxury is your game, is there any other option but a Chanel shopper tote bag? Complete with a spacious interior, coordinating pouch, and interior zip pocket, this beautiful blue bag will stand out in any setting, from exotic beaches to snow-capped mountains. Choose your adventure.

Dimensions: 11.7" × 19.5" × 8.6"

Colors: Beige

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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?

Shop Baggallini Avenue Tote: Amazon | Zappos | Target

Baggalini Avenue Travel Tote Bag With Pockets

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

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

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

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

Tumi Voyageur Just In Case Nylon Tote Bag

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

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

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

Longchamp Le Pliage Large Shoulder Tote Bag

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

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

Scarleton Reversible Tote

Scarleton Stylish Reversible Tote Handbag

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

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

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

Reisenthel Shopper Tote

Reisenthel Travel Tote With Zipper

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

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

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

BOSTANTEN Tote Bags Travel

BOSTANTEN Large Leather Travel Totes

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

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

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

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

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!

MZ Wallace Lightweight Tote Bags for Travel

MZ Wallace Totes Travel Bag

This pretty diamond-quilted nylon bag has supple, yet durable construction making every day use a breeze. Readers love its cool vibe, and say it’s lightweight, stores easily, and holds all your stuff in three roomy zip pouches.

For a day trip with the kids, a work event, or a stroll while window shopping, you’ll walk with confidence, elegance and keen organizational skills.

Find out the best fanny pack for travel!

Kate Spade New York All Day Large Tote

Kate Spade Black Travel Tote Bag

Pebbled leather and slim over-the-shoulder straps make this Kate Spade accessory a sophisticated designer favorite of TFG readers. This wear-with-anything, perfect travel tote carry on is ideal if you’re traveling with a laptop. 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 its well-organized interior, a removable zip pouch, padded compartment that fits most 15″ laptops and structured silhouette with flat base and protective metal feet.

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

These are the top convertible purses according to our readers!

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Tote

Lo & Sons Deluxe Personal Carry On Totes

One of the best totes for travel as voted by our readers is the Catalina Deluxe Tote by Lo & Sons. This tote is built for travel, having a bottom compartment for shoes, tons of organizational pockets and a trolley sleeve so you can slide this the over your suitcase handle. This can be used as a sightseeing bag, or even a beach tote by removing the bottom compartment to have more room to put essentials.

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

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

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

L.L. Bean Everyday Lightweight Tote

L.L. Bean Everyday Tote Bag

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

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

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 the Best Travel Purse
• Why Cross Body Purses are the Best Travel Shoulder Bags for Women
• Top Anti-Theft Bags 
• Best Personal Item Bags

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Fly High With These Travel Tote Bags For Women

Travelling away. Toting around.

by Emma Treagus Updated on June 4, 2024

At Luxe Digital, we test and recommend products that we think you will love. If you buy something, we might earn a commission . This supports our team at no extra cost 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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20 Best Travel Totes: Portable Bags & Carry-Ons

We take pride in providing authentic travel recommendations based on our own experiences such as unique images and perspectives. We may earn a commission when you purchase a product or book a reservation. Learn more ›

Written by Brittney Liu

I consider a good tote bag an absolute essential when it comes to traveling. I suffer from a bit of flying anxiety (yes, even as someone who flies at least once a month), so it’s essential for me to have a bag that can fit all of my travel essentials. Purses are all too small, and it’s not practical to go in and out of a carry-on suitcase while flying or on a train.

That’s where tote bags come in! I love a shoulder bag that can fit my laptop, noise-canceling headphones, Kindle, and travel documents.

While I prefer a tote that can be used as a personal item , there are also tote bags large enough to qualify as your only carry-on and foldable tote bags you can bring if you plan to do some shopping .

I’ve scoured the internet to find the absolute best travel totes. I’ve considered durability, materials, comfortability, and price point .

Continue reading to hear my top travel tote bag picks. I hope this list helps make your life much easier when deciding on your next travel bag purchase.

Best Travel Totes & Tote Bags to Buy

1. michael kors jet set tote.

This Michael Kors Jet Set Tote is a must-have in every woman’s wardrobe and is considered one of the most popular travel tote bags on the market. The leather tote is not just for show; it blends fashion and practicality by offering all your items an additional layer of protection.

This travel tote for women is ideal for travelers who only need to fit the basics but love to keep organized. It’s not super large but features several interior and exterior pockets.

It can easily fit travel documents , a wallet, a book or Kindle, and an iPad, but it cannot fit a full-size laptop. The bag comes in many beautiful colors in Michael Kors’ signature MK print.

• Dimensions: 16″ x 10″ x 4.5″
• Material: Cotton, Leather, and Polyester
• Weight: 2.07 pounds
• It can be used for many different occasions
• Several pockets for organization
• The classic print and many color options
• Easily fits under an airplane seat
• Cannot fit a full-size laptop

See Related: Vacation Dresses

2. Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Tote

Lo & Sons is a family-run travel bag brand known for providing stylish yet sensible bags. Inspired by her frequent travels , Helen Lo started the brand at age 65 with her two sons, who helped make her dreams come true.

Lo & Sons bags range from large duffle bags to fanny packs and wallets. My favorite Lo & Sons tote bag is the Catalina Deluxe Tote. The travel tote is available in recycled poly and eco-friendly canvas and in a range of modern colors to suit any preference.

My favorite features are the long straps, removable shoulder straps, trolley sleeves, and separate shoe compartments. The inner lining of the shoe compartment is removable for easy cleaning, which is definitely a bonus!

Our Managing Editor, Kim Magaraci, unboxed the Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Tote. Have a look at the experience of this classic tote bag .

• Dimensions: 15″ x 14″ x 7″
• Material: Recycled Poly or Canvas
• Weight: 2.26 pounds (poly) – 2.9 pounds (canvas)
• Fits under an airplane seat
• Stylish color options
• Easy to clean
• Separate shoe compartment
• Spacious main compartment
• No padded laptop compartment
• No water bottle pocket

See Related : Monos Luggage Review: Is it Worth it?

3. Coach Town Tote

Nobody does totes like Coach. The Coach Town Tote delivers functionality and has a lovely classic design. It features two comfortable straps and can be easily carried on your shoulder.

The main compartment is spacious and has an interior organizational pocket to keep your keys, phone, or wallet in place. The tote comes in various unique colors and will add color to any outfit .

• Dimensions: 12.25″ x 12.5″ x 4.75″
• Material: Polished Pebble Leather
• Comes in a variety of colors
• Timeless style
• Large main compartment
• Only one small interior zip pocket

See Related: Travel Humidifiers

4. Knomo Grosvenor Laptop Tote

This travel tote is all about function and form. Its rectangular shape and size are ideal for daily commuting and air travel. This London-based brand was founded by frequent travelers who wanted a stylish yet functional tote for business travelers. This is a perfect tote bag if you, like me, carry work whenever you travel.

It also has a trolley slip sleeve that fits on the handle of the wheeled luggage for convenient carrying, in addition to its soft leather handles. The bag has an RFID-blocking liner that protects your passport and credit cards .

• Dimensions: 18.9″ x 5.5″ x 13″
• Material: Nylon, Linen, and Leather
• Capacity: 19.6 L
• Weight: 1.7 pounds
• Fits a 16″ laptop and a pair of sneakers
• Sleek design
• Exterior RFID-protected pocket
• Easily goes from daily use to travel
• Only two color options

5. Timbuk2 Vapor Convertible Backpack Tote

Timbuk2’s convertible backpack tote combines form and function with eco-consciousness, making this tote bag an awesome option for those who want to minimize their environmental impacts without sacrificing function and style. This bag is made from recycled materials and comes with a lifetime warranty.

This spacious bag features a large interior compartment that can easily fit a 15-inch laptop in addition to other items like a water bottle, clothing, and toiletries . The small exterior zipper pocket allows quick access to important travel items like your phone, wallet, and passport.

• Dimensions: 11.8″ x 4.3″ x 17.3″
• Material: Recycled Nylon & Eco-friendly Yarn
• Capacity: 18 L
• Weight: 1.48 pounds
• It can be used as a tote or backpack
• Secure zipper closure
• Eco-friendly construction
• Tote straps are a bit short
• Pricey compared to the capacity

6. Briggs & Riley Baseline Traveler Tote Bag

This Briggs & Riley tote is made of durable, water-resistant nylon and is ideal when traveling with children or stepping out in the rain. The elegant travel tote features several interior organizational pockets to keep all of your essentials in place while still having enough room for a few outfits.

With its multiple pockets and sleek leather trim, this B&R tote is the perfect bag for international travel. You can bring your everyday essentials with you on the go while also looking stylish. This highly durable travel tote will last you through many of your greatest adventures .

• Dimensions: 13″ x 21″ x 7.5″
• Material: Ballistic Nylon
• Capacity: 33 L
• Weight: 1.6 pounds
• Comes in four gorgeous neutral colors
• Spacious interior
• Hideaway leather ID tag to protect your information while also keeping it handy
• Durable and built to last
• Briggs & Riley Lifetime Guarantee
• It may not fit under an airplane seat when fully packed
• The somewhat high price point

7. Kenneth Cole Reaction Chevron Business Tote

If you are a jet-setter who goes from a meeting to dinner with a client, this tote will make the perfect carry-on bag. The exterior of this tote is made with tear-resistant polyester, so it’s great for frequent travelers who put a lot of miles on their travel gear.

The bag’s interior has a padded laptop sleeve and slots that allow you to stow your tablet or a laptop. It has additional pockets for your phone, cards, wallet, water bottle, and sunglasses .

The tote has handles that can be worn over the shoulder and comes with a removable crossbody strap. A trolley strap will also fit over most suitcase handles for easy carrying.

• Dimensions: 17” x 13” x 5”
• Material: Polyester Twill
• Weight: 2.15 pounds
• Constructed with tear-resistant fabric
• Plenty of organizational features
• Fits a large laptop
• Matching luggage set available
• Only fits a small-sized water bottle

See Related: Portable Hair Dryers for Travel

8. Ecosusi Convertible Tote Bag

When shopping for a convertible travel bag , consider the Ecosusi Convertible Tote Backpack. It’s affordable, functional, and stylish. The bag has comfortable straps and several internal organizational pockets.

The bag is light in weight and is made from water-resistant and highly durable material. This versatile tote can be used as a backpack, shoulder bag, or handbag . It is made from soft vegan leather and will add style and elegance to any airport ‘fit.

• Dimensions: 11″ x 4.9″ x 14.7″
• Material: Vegan Leather & Nylon
• Weight: 2 pounds
• It can be used as a backpack or tote
• Includes a padded laptop compartment
• Small enough to only fit essentials
• The narrow straps are a bit uncomfortable

9. Longchamp Le Pliage Tote

The classic Longchamp Le Pliage tote is one of the brand’s most iconic bags and is fantastic for long travel days. It’s stylish and practical, and at a mere 12 ounces, it’s one of the lightest large tote bags on the market. In terms of a luxury bag , it’s quite affordable, making it a great long-term investment for traveling.

The bag is waterproof and will fold flat without wrinkles. It has a top zip with a logo and a snap flap closure. It also comes with an interior cell phone pocket with a water-resistant lining, which is uncommon for foldable travel tote bags.

• Dimensions: 13″ x 13″ x 7.5″
• Material: Nylon
• Weight: 12 ounces
• Heavy-duty and durable
• Luxurious finishes
• Large capacity
• No feet or sturdy bottom to stand on its own
• You can find similar items for a fraction of the price

10. Ban.do Getaway Weekender Bag

This fun and colorful travel tote is ready to hold all your essentials and be your next travel bestie! The Ban.do Getaway Weekender Bag is large enough to hold everything you need for a weekend girls’ trip but also folds up and comes with a detachable mesh pouch inside to store it when not in use.

The comfortable straps make it an ideal tote for those long travel days when you’ll be transiting from place to place. The main zipper pocket can easily fit enough clothes and accessories for a long weekend away , and the luggage sleeve makes it easy to transport through airports and train stations.

• Dimensions: 17″ x 14″ x 4.5″
• Weight: 1.21 pounds
• Comfortable shoulder straps
• Foldable and easy to store
• No internal or external pockets
• Currently only available in one print

11. Tumi Business Tote

When traveling for business, you need a business travel tote you can take straight from the plane to the meeting room. This TUMI tote is sleek, sophisticated, and sensible, making it one of the best women’s travel totes for business travelers. The durable material is easy to clean and will last through countless business trips .

The main compartment of this classic tote features a padded laptop sleeve that can easily accommodate a 16″ laptop. There’s also a front zip pocket and an easy-access phone pocket, as well as a tablet pocket, key leash, and other organizational pockets . One of the best features is Tumi Tracer – a complimentary bag recovery program that seeks to reunite customers with their lost luggage .

• Dimensions: 11.25″ x 16.5″ x 6″
• Material: Nylon & Genuine Leather
• Weight: 1.89 pounds
• Easy to clean and maintain
• Durable and long-lasting
• Trolley sleeve
• Tumi Tracer
• High price point

See Related: Car Seat Travel Bags

12. Vera Bradley Microfiber Tote

Regarding travel bags , Vera Bradley has been a go-to brand for generations of women. Their signature quilted padded fabric adds extra protection to all their products. Made from lightweight microfiber, the bag is machine washable and easy to care for.

It has six interior slip pockets that will keep everything well organized, from your lipgloss to your laptop. The exterior has a front slip pocket and a zip pocket. It can easily fit your phone, wallet, books , or other valuables that can be easily accessed but remain out of sight. 

• Dimensions: 15″ x 14.5″ x 6″
• Material: Microfiber (polyester)
• Lightweight
• Machine washable
• One of the most spacious bags for traveling
• Signature Vera Bradley interior lining
• No warranty offered

See Related : Best Gifts to Buy for Travel Lovers

13. Bostanten Leather Tote Bag

The Bostanten Leather Tote Bag is an elegant and affordable travel tote bag. The extra-long strap provides excellent built-in functionality, so you can wear it on one shoulder or as a crossbody bag .

The internal structure has one main compartment and one removable pouch. It also comes in a few colors to fit different styles and preferences.

There is a zipper pouch with one pocket, two slip pockets, and an inner zipper pouch. The two side slip pockets and two magnetic buckle pockets on the exterior are great for easily accessing items like an ID or passport. 

• Dimensions: 10.4″ x 5.9″ x 12.7″
• Material: Genuine Leather
• Weight: 1.85 pounds
• Removable and interchangeable shoulder strap
• Multiple organizational pockets
• The removable pouch can keep all of your belongings in one place
• Easy to clean and comes with a dust bag
• It cannot fit most laptops
• Only practical as a personal item if you have additional luggage

14. S-Zone Vintage Leather Tote

If you want a no-fuss and straightforward tote bag, check out the S-Zone Vintage Leather Tote. This sturdy leather bag has one main compartment and a removable zipper pouch. It is big enough to hold a 15-inch laptop as well as other essentials for travel, like a small toiletries bag .

This soft leather bag comes in seven neutral colors and features long double-layered shoulder straps that are comfortable and durable. The complementary canvas pouch is removable to give you even more room. With its classic silhouette and durability, the S-Zone Leather Tote is an excellent gift for the frequent travele r.

• Dimensions: 12.6″ x 16.9″ x 13″
• Weight: 2.4 pounds
• Easily goes from day use to travel use
• Highly durable and long-lasting
• Holds a large laptop
• High maintenance
• Strong leathery smell

15. RIMOWA Large Never Still Canvas Tote

Combining elegance and class with purpose and functionality, RIMOWA’s large Never Still canvas tote is one of the best designer travel totes you’ll come across. It’s great for business travelers or those looking to customize their airport outfit aesthetic .

Fear not; the Never Still tote isn’t just about looks. The internal pocket is spacious and can accommodate all of your travel essentials. The exterior features a sleek trolley strap, two sets of handles, and a removable leather address tag. This isn’t going to fit all of your outfits for a weekend getaway , but it’s a great compliment to a carry-on suitcase.

• Dimensions: 12.6″ x 16.3″ x 6.7″
• Material: Canvas & Full Grain Leather
• Capacity: 19 L
• Weight: 2.65 pounds
• Luxury finishes
• Includes a two-year warranty
• High luxury = high pricepoint
• Limited space

16. BAGSMART Large Tote Bag

BAGSMART is one of my favorite travel bag brands on Amazon. They carry some of the best carry-on bags for international travel that can fit even the strictest airline requirements.

When it comes to tote bags, BAGSMART doesn’t disappoint. Their large tote bag is cute and spacious and can easily go from an everyday bag to a travel companion.

This large tote features an oversized main compartment with several interior pockets to fit all the essentials, including clothes, accessories, a water bottle, and an umbrella. A padded laptop sleeve (that fits up to a 15.6″ laptop) protects electronics. The top extension strap is perfect for holding anything from a yoga mat to an extra jacket.

• Dimensions: 19.3″ x 6.3″ x 13.8″
• Material: Water-resistant soft polyester
• Oversized main compartment
• Very affordable
• Weather-resistant
• The soft material does not allow the bag to stand on its own
• It may be too large for some

17. Away The Packable Carryall

Whether you’re looking for a lightweight tote for everyday carry or an extra packable tote bag if you expect to do a lot of shopping on your next trip , The Packable Carryall from Away has you covered. This lightweight nylon tote is affordable and extra durable, making it the perfect companion for a weekend getaway.

As one of the lightest oversized totes, this lightweight bag offers a ton of space without compromising on durability. This is a fantastic bag option for clothes and accessories , but it may not be the best tote for electronics or other fragile items.

• Dimensions: 15″ x 19.7″ x 9″
• Material: Recycled Nylon
• Capacity: 43 L
• Weight: 8.8 ounces
• Ultra-durable and weather resistant
• Away’s 100-day trial virtually eliminates the risk of being stuck with a bag you don’t like
• May not qualify as a personal item on all airlines (when at/close to full capacity)
• Spacious interior but limited pockets
• No padding for electronics

18. BÉIS The East To West Tote

We all know and love the BÈIS Weekender Tote and the Mary Poppins-esque Mini Weekender , but the celebrity brand serves even more ways to be chic and practical while traveling. This medium-sized tote features fantastic interior pockets, including a phone and laptop sleeve, a water bottle pocket, and a handy key leash, so you’ll never lose your most important belongings.

On the exterior, you’ll find a small exterior pocket, a removable shoulder strap, and a convenient trolley sleeve to secure the bag onto your rolling suitcase. This is hands down one of the best tote bags for travel on the market today. It’s an awesome option as a personal item that will hold anything you need to access during your travels.

• Dimensions: 17.1″ x 14.2″ x 9″
• Material: Recycled Poly & Recycled Faux Leather
• Capacity: 31 L
• Weight: 2.2 pounds
• Made from recycled materials
• Metal feet on the bottom of the bag to reduce wear and tear
• Multiple compartments for organization
• Three handle/wearing options
• Limited color choices

19. Peak Design Everyday Tote

If you’re looking for the perfect spacious tote to hold and protect all your stuff, check out the Peak Design Everyday Tote. This modern travel tote was designed to protect and organize photo gear, but it also doubles as a functional everyday travel tote bag.

The bag features an extra-wide opening to access all of your gear quickly and with ease. It’s also water resistant to ensure all of your belongings stay safe. Other handy features include customizable dividers, a padded laptop sleeve, several interior and exterior pockets, and external carry straps (great for jackets or tripods ).

• Dimensions: 16.5″ x 12.6″ x 6.7″
• Material: 400D double poly-coated DWR-impregnated nylon canvas
• Capacity: 15 L to 20 L
• Weight: 1.81 pounds; 2.25 pounds with dividers
• Removable dividers
• Large opening with magnetic closure for extra space and security
• Carry straps to keep your hands free
• Very practical for organizing camera gear
• Shoulder straps could be too short for some
• Interior pockets are small

20. Puma Evercat Jane Tote

This Puma tote is perfect for those looking for an affordable and practical travel bag. It’s machine washable and easily fits everything you’d need for a full day of travel . While it won’t replace an entire carry-on suitcase, it’s a great option if you need a reliable personal item.

The bag features two sturdy handles and an adjustable crossbody strap. The large main compartment also includes an internal zipper pocket to keep your most important items, such as keys and wallets, easily accessible.

• Dimensions: 15″ x 13.5″ x 6″
• Material: Polyester
• Weight: 10 ounces
• Durable fabric
• Too small to be used as a standalone carry-on tote

See Related: Essential Women’s Travel Accessories

Things to Consider When Buying a Travel Tote Bag

• Size : Depending on your length of trip and where you’re going, you may want a large tote bag or something that only needs to fit the essentials. If you’re on a budget, stick to something larger to use it for most occasions.
• Organization : Make sure your bag includes the right interior pockets and other organizational features. I like having multiple compartments and exterior pockets in my travel tote, but you may want a more roomy interior instead of more pockets.
• Durability > Good price : Getting a good deal on a travel bag doesn’t always work out to be cheaper. Buying and replacing cheap bags often comes out to be more expensive in the long run. Consider investing in tote bags for travel made of durable materials that will stand the test of time.
• Weight : The size and material of the tote bag add to its overall weight when filled. Consider a lightweight tote made of durable materials for the best bang for your buck.
• Care : Wash your tote regularly, either by hand or in a washing machine (if your bag allows it). Store it out of direct sunlight when not in use.

What is the ideal size for a travel tote bag?

Most travelers prefer a tote bag under the airplane seat with room for a laptop, Kindle, noise-canceling headphones, and a small purse. The Michael Kors Jet Set is the perfect size.

What is the average price range for a high-quality travel tote bag?

Tote bags can range anywhere from $20 to over $1,000. The average range for a high-quality travel tote bag is between $70 and $200.

What are some of the best places to buy a travel tote bag?

Amazon offers many affordable travel totes. Our other favorite brands at ViaTravelers include BÉIS , Lo & Sons, Briggs & Riley , and Peak Design .

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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.

From destination weddings to beach trips, summer is filled with plenty of adventures. While traveling there may seem overwhelming, it doesn't have to be! Are you already covered for carry-on luggage and travel accessories ? Perhaps you're already stocking up on compression socks , or have your travel outfit ready to go? Above all else, a trusted tote bag is a travel investment you'll buy once and will keep you organized for years to come.

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.

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

Bagsmart Women's Tote Bag with Zipper

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

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

August Noa Everyday Canvas Tote

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

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

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

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

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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What’s the Best Personal-Item Bag for Flying?

Between finding a carry-on that will fit in most overhead compartments, a toiletry bag or Dopp kit for your tiny bottles of shampoo, and an under-the-seat personal item to hold everything you’ll need for in-flight comfort and entertainment, solving the packing equation isn’t easy. To make things even more complicated, there aren’t even standard regulations for what counts as a “personal item” — as my fellow writer Rachael Griffiths explains here , each airline has its own particular requirements. If you’ve purchased a basic fare on a no-frills carrier like Frontier or Spirit, you’ll generally want to stick with a bag measuring 8 x 18 x 14 inches or smaller (and if you’ve purchased a personal-item-only fare, I’ve written a minimalist packing guide to help you figure out how to travel with just one small bag). On most other airlines, there’s a lot more you can get away with. Below, find advice from stylish frequent fliers (and Strategist staffers) about the totes, duffels, and backpacks they slip over the handles of their suitcases.

Update on September 12, 2024: Updated prices and checked stock for all products.

The best personal-item tote bags

Yolo Journal ’s Yolanda Edwards likes travel bags that don’t look like travel bags and can therefore be used for everyday sightseeing and shopping upon reaching your destination. Parker Thatch’s roomy totes fit the bill, and while they don’t have a luggage sleeve, Edwards has no problem slipping the handles of this one over her Rimowa suitcase. “And it’s great for going to the farmers’ market once I arrive where I’m going,” she adds.

“I look for a bag that can sit on top of my carry-on, fit a lot of items, and be easily stored when not in use,” says Daniela Velasco, the creative director of Drift magazine. That bag, for her, is Longchamp’s forever classic Le Pliage tote, which flattens and folds up for storage. Strategist senior editor Hilary Reid owns one in orange and is also “always surprised by how much fits inside.”

Is there a more quintessential carry-all than the L.L.Bean Boat and Tote? Writer and influencer Harry Hill doesn’t think so. “As someone who is usually drawn to more uppity travel bags, this trusty tote is a delight because of how unfussy it is,” Hill tells us. “It fits a ton, it’s super-lightweight, and I don’t have to worry about spilling coffee on the vachetta or putting it on the ground.” Hill suggests monogramming your name — or a crude joke, depending on personal preference. For additional customization, “the colorways are constantly changing, so keep an eye out if you have a specific vision for your tote.” While Hill adds that it’s impossible to go wrong, because any L.L.Bean “will make you look like a Kennedy skipping town,” the zip-up version of the bag will give more peace of mind at the airport.

Strategist contributing writer Mya Gelber spent a day asking stylish strangers on the subway about their work bags, and Cuyana’s Classic Easy Zipper Tote was the one she ended up purchasing for herself. So when the brand announced this larger travel-friendly version of the popular bag, I immediately ordered one to test out. Made from soft and slouchy leather, it’s a big bag that can definitely fit an outfit or two alongside your laptop, passport, and other essentials. While it can’t be worn as a cross-body, the tote’s shoulder straps are long and thick enough to be comfortable for long periods of time. There’s no luggage sleeve, either, but this means that the bag can be used more seamlessly in everyday life — it would be an excellent investment for anyone who is commuting gym-to-office.

Sewn in California from leftover sailing canvas, Pacific Tote Company’s bags are similar to L.L. Bean boat totes, except more brightly colored. The company is co-owned by director Roman Coppola (brother to Sofia, who carries Pacific Tote bags on set ) and beloved by bi-coastal film industry insiders. If you work in film and fly between L.A. and New York every other week, you carry your laptop in this pleasingly sturdy bag . Strategist style columnist Chris Black is also a fan .

When she’s not traveling with her Parker Thatch bag, Edwards also likes to use Kule’s roomy totes as personal items. Saturday Night Live ’s Chloe Fineman travels with one of these too, and says it fits both a laptop and extra outfit inside. She adds that the New York brand’s designs are “a little cheeky and a little funny,” as well as a nice reminder of home when she’s on the road.

Here’s another professional-looking, multi-purpose travel tote, as recommended by Strategist writer Lauren Ro. She says it makes a great carry-on personal item because it’s lightweight and custom-designed for air travel, with a luggage sleeve and exterior pockets for stashing chargers and tidbits, as well as a removable crossbody strap.

At least two friends that I know of ended up immediately purchasing a Baggu Cloud Carry-on after I flaunted mine at a destination wedding last year. Made from weightless but durable nylon, the airplane-friendly version of the brand’s original Cloud Bag can hold a lot of stuff, and the bright colorways stand out in a sea of boring navy duffels at the airport. Puffy shoulder straps make standing in line at security a bit more tolerable, and generous external pockets are handy for stashing a book or water bottle. The original bag’s dimensions are actually rather large (14 × 20 × 8 inches) for a personal item, although its bulkiness really depends on how much stuff you pack inside. I’ve taken mine on a personal-item-only Spirit flight with no issues at all, and on longer trips I have also slipped it over the handle of a Samsonite carry-on suitcase using the attached luggage sleeve. If you’re looking for something more compact that’ll definitely squish under the seat in front of you, Baggu recently launched a smaller size (16.5 by 12.5 by 6.5 inches) with the same comfortable padded straps and removable zipper pouch inside.

The best personal-item duffel bags

Former Strategist associate editor Louis Cheslaw calls this Patagonia duffel his “ secret second suitcase ,” because its unassuming-yet-roomy interior lets him pack heavy without checking a bag. The Black Hole’s 30-liter capacity is about as large as a bag can be while still qualifying as the “personal item” you can bring onboard with your main carry-on suitcase and slide under the seat in front of you, Cheslaw notes. “Within that capacity, I can easily fit two pairs of shoes as well as a week’s worth of underwear, socks, and thin shirts, relieving a ton of pressure on my suitcase.”

This new-school garment bag, which made our Travel 100 list of the best products to take on the road, can keep a suit or gown unwrinkled while also cleverly storing several other outfits. My fellow Strategist writer Rachael Griffiths loves taking hers on weekend trips with friends, especially when packing satin dresses and pleated shirts for nights out. It’s ideal for destination weddings, and Moonflower wine bar co-owner Rebecca Johnson even took one all the way to Tasmania for a romantic antipodean getaway with her husband. Going ’s travel spokesperson, Katy Nastro, told me that it’s very popular among her exceedingly well-traveled colleagues.

For both carry-on backpacks and duffels, former Paper fashion editor Mario Abad turns to Dagne Dover’s neoprene travel bags. “They’re the best,” he says. “They’re really lightweight, and they’re made of this scuba material that looks sleek and modern and is nice to the touch.” The bags aren’t just aesthetically pleasing, though. “You can fit a lot of stuff inside — it’s a minimal aesthetic, no busy details or anything, just all the compartments you need.” Jessica Morrobel of  Traveling With Jessica agrees that the Landon is an “absolute lifesaver,” and  Going ’s travel spokesperson, Katy Nastro, is also a fan, especially for quick overnights. The duffel comes in five sizes, but medium is the best option if you know you’ll be flying on budget carriers with strict rules.

The best personal-item backpacks

This is my current personal item backpack of choice. It is designed to slip over the handles of a carry-on suitcase, but over Christmas I took it as my only luggage on a weeklong train trip across Turkey and Georgia and it fit everything I needed, including an extra pair of shoes. The neutral design is as appropriate for day hiking and office commuting as it is flying. But the capacity is the biggest drawcard. Creator Jessica Wright of Bon Traveler is a longtime user and says she is “shocked” by how much it can hold. Great for packers who like to compartmentalize, the interior is separated into various sleeves and sections for a laptop, clothing, and tech items. But you can also remove these compartments and just use it as a black hole bag if needed.

My fellow Strategist travel writer Rachael Griffiths prefers this sleek Timbuk2 backpack with even more sleeves and compartments for organizing items on the move. It, too, can store “a week away’s worth of clothes and a fat beach read if you’re strategic,” she says. Which is ideal if you’re traveling personal-item-only .

The “clown car of personal items” is what writer and film wrangler Maggie Slepian calls this top-loading backpack from hiker-beloved brand Gregory. When she used it as her only luggage item for a four-day trip to the East Coast last fall, it fit a laptop, notebook, sandals, running shoes, rain jacket, jumpsuit, two pairs of leggings, two pairs of shorts, several shirts, toiletries, socks, undergarments, five pairs of headphones (over-ear, noise-canceling earbuds, white-noise only, corded for the plane, and AirPods for Zoom calls), and snacks. Her water bottle was stashed in the stretchy side pocket. I’ll also note that the brand has recently updated this bag with new (and to my eyes more attractive) colorways; the “techno granite” is very sleek.

Patagonia’s Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack is “a really good bag,” as Strategist contributing writer Molly Dektar observes . Popular among globe-trotting art world types, it can be carried as either a tote or a backpack, depending on the situation, and it folds into its own internal pocket, for easy storage. It is practical without sacrificing style: “Though it is crafted of black ripstop, it does not scream, ‘I hike!’ and though it has a large number of pockets and adjustable straps, it does not scream, ‘I code!’”

Strategist senior editor Simone Kitchens is a fan of Patagonia’s Black Hole bags too — but she uses this more traditional-looking one. “ There are one zillion separate little pockets and perfectly sized compartments for things like chargers and night guards and passports and AirPods,” she explains, “as well as slim sleeves for a laptop and magazines.” The bag opens at the top, which means things won’t come tumbling out when you need to grab something. And while there’s a high level of organization happening on the inside, the bag has a smooth exterior: “ I quite like that the outside doesn’t look all that tricked out. ”

Despite fears of looking like a Scandinavian school child or 2012-era hipster, Strategist writer Dominique Pariso is loyal to her Kanken — and she’s not alone among our staff . “This backpack is so light, so compact, and so durable it really is ideal for stuffing under tiny airplane seats,” she explains. “Plus, you can fit way more stuff inside than seems humanly possible given its petite size.”

The best personal-item cross-bodies and fanny packs

Baggu’s take on the crescent trend is excellent for travel. I’ve had mine for a couple of years now and would be lost without it at the airport. It’s comfortable to wear, with a highly adjustable strap and two zippered internal pockets for securing your phone, passport, and wallet. The capacity is huge: I can fit a book and water bottle inside and still have room left over for other items. I’ve machine washed it several times with no issue. And while the bag looks smart, especially in the black colorway, it’s also low-key enough to avoid the attention of pickpockets. Hairstylist Teddi Cranford, who has visited Marrakech five times , says that it’s “essential for the souk,” because you can “just easily grab stuff out and zip it back up.”

Less sporty-looking than the ubiquitous Lululemon belt bag, and constructed from stretchy neoprene fabric that lets you stuff it full if you need to, our favorite fanny pack is perfect for the plane. I’ve got one of these in white and appreciate how minimal it looks. The size also makes it easy to hide under a jacket or sweater.

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The Best Tote Bags

By Zoe Vanderweide

Zoe Vanderweide is a writer focused on style and accessories. She has personally tested nearly 300 bags, jeans, bras, shoes, and more.

A good tote is for the schlep.

One day your trusty tote bag transports your laptop and a couple of books, and the next it holds three bunches of celery and a melon from the farmers market.

No matter its size or composition, a tote should be easy to pack and unpack, useful whether you’re heading to a coffee shop or an office, and attractive and versatile enough to bring to dinner afterward.

We found five terrific tote bags that will suit a variety of tastes, carrying needs, and budgets. Our picks include a practical canvas carrier , a luxurious open-top leather bag , a super-sturdy structured canvas tote , a refined twill tote with leather handles , and an unstructured, effortlessly elegant full-grain leather tote .

The research

A casual-cool canvas tote: baggu zip duck bag, a luxurious open-top leather bag: cuyana classic easy tote, a structured open-top tote made from heavier canvas: l.l.bean boat and tote open-top, a sophisticated and structured open-top canvas tote: filson rugged twill tote bag, an unstructured, open-top leather tote: leatherology uptown vertical tote, how we picked and tested, other good tote bags, the competition.

Baggu Zip Duck Bag

All-purpose workhorse.

This durable tote comes with a 40-inch adjustable strap as well as top handles, giving you multiple carrying options. However, due to its thin canvas material, you may feel—and get poked by—the contents of the bag.

Buying Options

May be out of stock

Note: The Zip Duck Bag is a slightly redesigned version of our original Baggu tote pick, the Duck Bag. The updated model has a zippered top closure, rather than a snap. On the interior, a zippered pocket has been replaced by a slip pocket. Otherwise, the bag—its dimensions, material, and overall look—remain the same. We are testing the newer model and will report back.

Have you been searching for a canvas bag that’s simple but good-looking? If you want something soft and unstructured, versatile and long-lasting, consider the Baggu Zip Duck Bag .

It’s a utility player. We can’t pin the Duck Bag’s excellence on a single feature, and that’s where its genius lies: Its practical simplicity makes it a more universal choice than any other tote bag we tested.

The entire Wirecutter staff seems to have used a Duck Bag at some point, and during our testing we received a lot of positive feedback about its style. Overall, the Duck Bag was the most well-liked canvas bag we tested because of its understated yet pleasing aesthetic.

The Duck Bag is 11 inches wide by nearly 16 inches tall, and thanks to its flexible seams, it can accommodate a large volume of contents. “I can stick my whole yoga mat in there,” one tester told us.

Notably, its shoulder strap extends to 40 inches, double the strap length of most totes we tested. You can wear the strap on one shoulder or across your body like a messenger bag, or you can carry the tote by its short top handles.

However, if you are using the long strap, and the Duck Bag is resting close against your body, be aware that the canvas material does not offer much protection against the items inside. (Some of our testers who were around 5-foot-3 complained that when they carried the tote hoisted over their shoulders with a laptop inside, it would hit them at an uncomfortable spot.)

It’s tougher than it looks. This tote felt sturdy over weeks of testing and didn’t pick up much dirt—and in our experience, these bags have held up extremely well. Lesley Stockton, senior staff writer on the kitchen team and our food stylist, has owned a Duck Bag for over a decade and has used it for everything from lugging knife rolls and heavy clogs to hauling a giant food processor across New York City. The bag is still functional and has remained mostly intact, showing its age with some minor thinning in spots and one small hole on the seam that Lesley says would be easily mendable (she just hasn’t gotten to it yet).

Baggu recommends machine-washing the Duck Bag—most canvas bags have to be hand-washed or spot-cleaned—and line-drying it, though you can also wash it by hand. According to Lesley, after countless washings, the bag’s canvas is buttery soft.

The Duck Bag comes with a one-year warranty against defects in material and workmanship, which is common for tote bags, and 65% of the 100% cotton canvas construction comes from recycled sources .

Its zippered top keeps your stuff in check. The Duck Bag’s large main compartment zips at the top, keeping its contents contained. (An older model of this bag closed with a snap instead; it is no longer available.) And unlike with open-top totes, you don’t need to worry about other folks catching sight of your belongings. “Throw some tampons in there,” said a tester. “No one ever has to know because you don’t ever have to see it!” The interior of the Duck Bag has one slip pocket, which is handy for stashing keys, sunglasses, or a wallet.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Depending on how you carry the Duck Bag, and what its contents are, it could feel unpleasant against your body; for example, items in the bag can poke you through the fabric when you have it slung over your back. A few testers around 5-foot-3 noted this issue but found that extending the strap and wearing it as a crossbody bag resolved the problem.
• The Duck Bag’s lack of heft—often a plus—can also be a minus. One staffer said that when her bag is too full, the long, thin strap can feel uncomfortable on her shoulder. And since the tote is unconstructed, which means that it’s floppy when it’s empty, it can’t stand on its own until it’s filled with stuff.

Size: 11 by 15.75 by 4.75 inches Weight: 13 ounces Strap length: 40 inches Closure type: zipper Colors: 10 patterns and colors, including natural grid, wavy gingham brown, and embroidered ditsy floral

Cuyana Classic Easy Tote

Shape-shifter.

This unstructured tote—made from supple Italian leather—is refined, lightweight, and generously spacious. But with just one small inside pocket, it isn’t easy to keep organized.

The Cuyana Classic Easy Tote is an elegant and lightweight leather bag. We’d wear it just about anywhere (barring rugged outdoor adventures), as its soft, supple leather and unstructured shape give it a relaxed and subtly luxurious vibe that can easily transition from casual outings to more formal settings. It’s large enough to fit everything you could need for a long day, and it has two sets of different-length handles, so you can comfortably sling the bag over your shoulder or carry it by hand.

We like the easy access of this open-top design, but if you prefer the security that a closed-top bag provides, Cuyana also sells a zippered model of this tote, for around $30 more.

It’s a long-term investment. The Easy Tote is a beautiful, spacious leather bag that retails for about $270. Although it’s the most expensive tote we recommend here, we’ve concluded that it’s well worth the money. The soft, pebbled texture of the Italian leather feels luxurious, but it’s not too fancy to use every day—the bag’s unstructured, slightly slouchy shape makes it cool and casually elegant.

The Easy Tote has a two-year warranty , longer than the coverage on any tote we recommend aside from our Filson pick , which is covered for its lifetime.

It’s supersized. At 21.5 inches wide by 12.25 inches tall, the Easy Tote is big—we’re talking hiding-an-actress’s-pregnancy-for-TV big—and seriously roomy.

The appeal of a big, open-top tote is the ability to throw a lot of stuff in it and carry it everywhere. Aside from its spacious main compartment, the Easy Tote has just one internal open pocket that’s large enough for the fundamentals, such as a small wallet, a phone, and a set of keys. But this is not a bag for someone who wants to be hyper-organized, though if you do want that, Cuyana makes a cool yet pricey $100 bag organizer sized exactly for this tote.

You can carry it multiple ways. The Easy Tote is equipped with two sets of handles in different lengths. The longer set, with a 10-inch drop, is well-proportioned for wearing the bag on your shoulder. The other, with a 6.25-inch drop, is ideal for carrying the bag by hand or sliding it over your forearm. The straps are soft and flexible, and they’re pretty cushy and comfortable to wear and carry, without looking bulky.

• We wish that this bag had more organizational features than just a single internal pocket.
• Like our picks from Baggu and Leatherology , this Cuyana tote is unstructured, so if you haven’t filled it and you set it down on the floor or your desk, it won’t stand upright.

Size: 12.25 by 21.5 by 5 inches Weight: 1 pound 10 ounces Strap length: 10 inches Closure type: none (also offered in a zippered version , for around $30 more) Colors: black, caramel, cappuccino, stone, dark olive, ecru, assorted seasonal colors

L.L.Bean Boat and Tote

Customizable, iconic.

This timeless structured bag is made from durable, long-lasting canvas, and it’s available in multiple colors, sizes, and handle lengths.

The iconic L.L.Bean Boat and Tote Open-Top is a structured and ridiculously sturdy tote bag, well suited to handling the abuse of regular trips to the beach or the grocery store. The Boat and Tote also offers more customizability than any other tote bag we found in terms of size and handle-length options.

It’ll never go out of style. The Boat and Tote looks timeless. You’ve likely seen this bag before—if not in your city’s hip neighborhood, seated next to cool 20-somethings, then maybe at the beach, where parents are using it to secretly smuggle in thermoses full of negronis.

Its structured design allows it to sit upright, and its open top lets you easily reach in and grab something. Even when it’s not full, the bag sits mostly upright, ready to go when you’re grabbing it from the backseat or hurrying to get off the bus.

It’s ultra-customizable. The Boat and Tote offers a slew of options to make it your own. In addition to being offered in a dozen colors, it comes in small, medium, large, and extra-large sizes and two handle lengths. The standard 6-inch handles allow for better control, while the 11-inch handles accommodate carrying larger objects or slinging the bag comfortably over your shoulder.

The medium Boat and Tote Open-Top, which is the model we tested, is 13 by 12 inches, so it’s slightly wider than it is tall. As advertised, it’s open at the top, so there’s nothing to keep your belongings in place—though L.L.Bean does sell zip-top versions of this bag for a bit more. (The zip-top model without a pocket costs about $10 extra, and the one with a pocket is around $20 more.) The open-top style is ideal for grocery shopping and other outings where easy access and visibility are a plus.

It’s especially sturdy and built to last. The Boat and Tote is made of heavy-duty cotton canvas; its overlapped seams are double-stitched with nylon. Thanks to its colored bottom, we didn’t spot any blemishes over the few weeks we tested it. (L.L.Bean recommends spot-cleaning.) The fabric is stiff and structured, which makes it difficult to fold up and put away in a dresser.

L.L.Bean claims that the bag’s straps are rated to hold up to 500 pounds; as we are unable to hold more than 150 pounds without crying, we could not confirm.

People we know who love the Boat and Tote are adamant that it is the best tote bag you can buy, to the point of annoyance. Admittedly, it is very good. Although L.L.Bean no longer offers a lifetime warranty, its guarantee is solid: You can return the tote within one year of purchase, and after that, the company will consider returns due to defects.

• The Boat and Tote’s sturdy, upright construction may qualify as a flaw to some people, since you can’t fold this bag up to stick it in a drawer.
• This bag lacks both internal and external pockets, though a zip-top version with an external pocket is available.

Size: 13 by 12 by 6 inches Weight: 1 pound 8 ounces Strap length: 6 inches Closure type: none (also available in a zippered version for around $10 more) Colors: 12 colors, including black, blue, dark green, red, natural

Filson Rugged Twill Tote Bag

Chic and sleeker.

This roomy bag offers all the sturdiness and practicality of a canvas tote—and even a lifetime warranty—but with elegant leather handles and a more refined look. Plus, it has lots of handy external pockets.

(FINAL SALE)

When you need the utilitarian qualities of a canvas tote and also want to look stylish, polished, and like you’ve got it all together, turn to the Filson Rugged Twill Tote Bag . The simple but elevated design of this open-top, leather-handled twill bag makes it an equally appropriate companion for a day of running errands or a nice evening out.

It’s sharp-looking. The Filson Tote has a clean, unfussy design and sleek handles, made from bridle leather, that give it more sophistication than the average canvas bag. “I feel like I could take this tote bag anywhere," said one tester.

It can stash a lot of stuff. The Filson Tote is 14 inches wide by 14 inches tall, wider than our other canvas picks. It has a spacious single main compartment that can fit bulkier items like shoes or a sweatshirt. On the exterior, four expansive pockets offer even more storage. Each of the bag’s broader sides has a full-length exterior pocket that’s roomy enough to hold a 13-inch laptop; one includes a key-clip lanyard. The tail ends of the bag have smaller pockets that are well proportioned for a water bottle or umbrella.

If you’re looking for even more toting capacity, Filson also makes a larger, 15-inch-wide version of this bag , which has a zippered closure (rather than an open top); it costs around $20 more. We have not tested this model.

It’s as tough as it is refined. “Rugged” is right there in its name, and it actually delivers: This bag is made from 100% cotton abrasion-resistant and water-repellent twill. The canvas is stiff enough that the bag can stand up on its own, and the inner seams are bound to protect them from fraying. It has a reinforced base, too. Filson recommends cleaning the bag by wiping it or brushing it.

The Filson Tote is well built and feels like it could last for years; plus, it’s the only one of our picks that’s covered by a lifetime warranty .

• The handles on the Filson Tote were stiff at first, though they softened over a few weeks.
• It would be nice if this bag had some—or any—internal pockets in addition to all of the external pockets.

Size: 14 by 14 by 5.25 inches Weight: 1 pound 12 ounces Strap length: 29.5 inches Closure type: none (also available in a zippered, larger version for about $20 more) Colors: tan, otter green

Leatherology Uptown Vertical Tote

Laid-back leather.

This slouchy, minimalist bag feels simultaneously polished and effortless, and its ridiculously soft full-grain leather is a joy to touch. Plus, it has useful internal pockets—including a zippered one.

The Leatherology Uptown Vertical Tote is an attractive and versatile unstructured full-grain leather bag; it has a relaxed, bohemian elegance that makes it easier to dress up than similarly drapey canvas bags. Perhaps most notably, it looks and feels like butt-ah .

Folks flip for this bag. When it came time for our testers to vote, the Uptown Vertical Tote handily beat every other leather tote bag option we tested—people loved this bag. One panelist couldn’t stop spouting effusive compliments: “My favorite; I love her so much. She feels buttery-soft! Beautiful texture.” Another agreed: “I want to touch this forever. It feels so supple.”

The interior has a black cotton-twill lining that works as a protective barrier against spills or messes. Leatherology recommends wiping the leather exterior clean if it gets dirty.

The Uptown Vertical Tote comes with a one-year warranty .

It’s sized just right. The Uptown Vertical Tote is 14.75 inches wide by 15.5 inches tall. “It's the perfect length,” said one tester. “I could fit my laptop in here without anyone knowing.”

The bag’s shoulder straps put it at an ideal height underneath our arms, and other testers—of varying heights—liked them, too.

It has plenty of internal organization. Inside the bag, you’ll find two open pockets and one zippered pocket—an unusual amount of organization for a leather tote. The two deep, open pockets have leather trim along their tops, while the zippered pocket on the other side is shorter and wider, well suited for storing a wallet or keys.

• The Uptown Vertical Tote is an unstructured tote, so when you place it on the ground, it collapses onto the floor.
• Although some of our testers liked that this bag didn’t button or zip at the top, others wished they had a way to securely close it.

Size: 14.75 by 15.5 by 3.5 inches Weight: 2 pounds 4 ounces Strap length: 9.5 inches Closure type: none Colors: black, Bordeaux, navy, tan, gray

To begin our research, we put together a list of more than 40 tote bags from manufacturers that were well known and respected (such as Baggu, Cuyana, Filson, and L.L.Bean) and from smaller brands with outstanding editorial and customer reviews (like Leatherology, Linjer, and Steele Canvas), along with a handful of highly rated totes sold on Amazon.

We wanted to recommend totes that would be large enough to hold a 12-inch laptop along with a book, a notebook, an umbrella, pens, a USB battery pack, a pair of headphones, and some charging cables.

With that in mind, we then further narrowed our list down to 20 totes based on specifications, aesthetics, materials, and price.

When we received the bags, we spent a few weeks testing the contenders before assembling a panel of nine Wirecutter employees—all with different tastes, wants, and needs—to test the final 10 totes and share their feedback. Our panelists rated the bags on looks, feel, size, weight, usefulness, material, and durability.

If you want a tote that's particularly well suited for carrying your laptop: The Bellroy Tokyo Tote Second Edition 15L , one of the picks from our guide to the best laptop tote bags , is a fantastic tote for commuting to the office. It has copious internal organization, a protective laptop area, and a durable zip-top closure. But it’s stiffer and not as deep as our picks in this guide, which is why we're not recommending it as a universal carryall.

If you want a tote that’s beach-ready: The Steele Steeletex Beach Tote is chic, black, and utilitarian. Our testing panel was confounded by this bag’s nylon material and the brass grommets on its bottom (which are meant to help shake out unwanted sand from the beach), preferring our L.L.Bean Boat and Tote Open-Top pick overall. Still, if the look of the Steele Canvas tote appeals to you, it could be a great beach bag.

This is not a comprehensive list of everything we’ve tested for previous iterations of this guide, just what’s still available.

The Dalix Heavy Duty Cotton Canvas Tote had notably weak stitching, despite being one of the most popular tote bags sold on Amazon.

Multiple testers described the pricey Leatherology Belmont Structured Tote as “not for them,” prompting us to wonder who, exactly, it would be for.

We found the leather Madewell Transport Tote much too narrow to use every day.

The Nodykka Tote Bag is an affordable vegan leather tote bag, but not one tester liked it. The straps were too thin and flimsy for some, and the feel of the bag itself was too wobbly for others.

The Patagonia Market Tote was cute but felt too much like a free printed tote—and not worth its $45 asking price. We did appreciate the small internal pocket, though.

This article was edited by Ingela Ratledge Amundson and Jennifer Hunter.

Meet your guide

Zoe Vanderweide

Zoe Vanderweide is a senior staff writer reporting on style and accessories at Wirecutter. She has been wearing things for over three decades, and she has spent years covering streetwear, luxury, art, and design. Off the clock, you can find her painting the town rainbow with her (devastatingly stylish) daughter.

Further reading

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

The Best Laptop Tote Bags

Our favorite laptop bags are not only a stylish step up from utilitarian messenger bags but also more refined and work-appropriate than classic canvas totes.

The Seven Best Reusable Shopping Bags, According to Wirecutter Staff

Here are Wirecutter’s seven favorite reusable shopping bags and totes for when you want to BYO bag.

This Excellent Reusable Grocery Bag Fits in Your Pocket

Baggu’s range of tote bags (including a reusable grocery bag that holds 50 pounds) are seemingly indestructible, incredibly spacious, easy to clean, and even easier to carry.

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The 13 Best Affordable Luggage Pieces of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

From suitcases to backpacks, these are our budget-friendly favorites.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Whether you’re planning a domestic city break or the long-haul adventure of a lifetime, travel is expensive enough without spending a fortune on your luggage. By saving on wallet-friendly suitcases, backpacks, and more, you’ll have more room in the budget for unforgettable experiences when you reach your destination. Opt for luggage from reliable brands that focus on durable materials and hardware rather than aesthetic frills and unnecessary extras. And remember that even when you’re shopping on a budget, buying well-made pieces the first time around beats having to fork out cash a second time a little further down the line. 

Our Travel + Leisure editors have tested more than 500 pieces of luggage (from carry-ons and checked suitcases to weekenders and backpacks) in our New York City lab, constantly testing new suitcases to find the best of the best. For this article, we chose the most affordable pieces under $150 that performed well both in our lab tests and during our long-term travels. We paid special attention to capacity, design, value, durability, and maneuverability, resulting in the category winners listed below.

Best Overall

Amazon basics expandable hardside 21-inch spinner.

This carry-on offers amazing durability and maneuverability at an unbeatable price point. 

There are no external pockets, and the handle is a bit wobbly.

Since the Amazon Basics 20-inch Hardside Spinner exceeded our expectations at every turn when we first tested it two years ago, we recently tested another to make sure the suitcase still meets our standards — and it does. Designed to meet the carry-on restrictions of most major airlines, it’s constructed of extra-thick ABS plastic with a textured, scratch-resistant finish. We were amazed that it survived our durability tests unscathed in a show of function and form that suggests excellent value for money. "Even after whacking it pretty aggressively with a baseball bat, this bag stood up to scuffs and scratches beautifully," says T+L senior editor Jasmine Grant . "The few imperfections that I did notice after the bat test were easily buffed out by rubbing them gently with my finger."

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

The suitcase’s fully lined interior features cross-straps on one side and a divider panel on the other. This panel includes three zippered pockets perfect for stashing smaller items. We were able to fit everything on our packing list inside with ease, even without employing the expansion feature, but you can also expand it for 25 percent more space, providing plenty of room for any souvenirs you might pick up on your trip. 

We were also impressed by the carry-on’s maneuverability. With four double spinner wheels and a telescoping handle, it was easy to push and pull over rough and smooth surfaces, turned nicely through our obstacle course, and handled bumps well — though the handle was wobbly at times. Color choices are fairly limited, but include navy blue, light blue, black, and orange.

The Details: Carry-on | 21.7 x 14.8 x 10 inches | 6.83 pounds | 41-liter capacity | Expandable | ABS, polyester

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim
• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Best Softside Checked

Swisstech softside luggage.

This suitcase is incredibly spacious yet smartly organized, with multiple interior and exterior pockets. 

It prioritizes practicality over style and is not particularly fashionable.

While the SwissTech Executive 29-inch Softside suitcase may not win any particular style points, we thought it far out-performed many of the more expensive suitcases we tested. It’s made of a high-denier softside fabric that stood up to our durability tests well, emerging with just one small dent after we dropped it off a counter and hit it with a baseball bat. The zippers run smoothly, and there are multiple zippered pockets on the inside and outside to suit even the most organized packer.  

We loved that the zippered expansion feature meant we had plenty of space leftover after packing everything on our list. Cross-straps keep everything in place, while the integrated TSA lock means security agents can open the suitcase without breaking it if necessary. The 360-degree spinner wheels and telescoping handle afforded smooth maneuverability on concrete and carpet, and we felt the suitcase fared well on gravel given its size.

The Details: Checked suitcase | 29 x 19 x 10.5 inches | 9.1 pounds | Expandable | Denier

Best Hardside Checked

Kenneth cole reaction out of bounds suitcase.

This suitcase is cavernous yet easy to maneuver despite its large size.

As is to be expected in a suitcase of this size, it handled better on smooth surfaces than when hauled over gravel.

If you’re looking for a sturdy hardside option for your next family trip or extended international vacation, we love the Kenneth Cole Reaction Out of Bounds 28-inch Checked Spinner. It’s made of durable yet lightweight ABS plastic, with molded corner guards for extra impact resistance. We found that it stood up well to our durability tests, despite sustaining a few scuffs around the edges. The interior is fully lined, with cross-straps on one side and a zippered divider that essentially creates two separate packing spaces. 

We found it deceptively spacious and could easily have fit enough clothes and extras for a month-long trip. Organization was good thanks to a hanging accessory pocket, and the multidirectional spinner wheels and retractable handle made for easy, 360-degree mobility even around tight corners. The lightweight trolley system also gives you a little extra leeway before exceeding airline weight restrictions. We loved the suitcase’s modern, sleek look. Choose from a range of colors including black and rose gold.

The Details: Checked suitcase | 29.5 x 20.5 x 11.8 inches | 9.6 pounds | ABS, PC, polyester | Limited lifetime warranty

Best Softside Carry-on

American tourister 4 kix 2.0 carry-on spinner.

The soft polyester is both durable and expandable.

While it's extremely easy to pull, it's more cumbersome to push.

Prefer traveling light? This compact carry-on fits just the right amount for a short trip (or up to 10 days, if you're a light packer like us). As we tested it in our lab, though, we were extremely impressed with the stretchy interior compression belt and expander, which efficiently packed down our clothing and accessories — freeing up space to add a bit more if needed. It also has quite a few pockets, ranging from internal mesh pockets to external zip pocket perfect for items you'd need to easily access in transit.

This suitcase shines when it comes to maneuverability, which we quickly realized while rolling it through our lab obstacle course. It's very lightweight and easy to move, and you can adjust the telescoping handle to several different heights. All four 360-degree spinner wheels glided so smoothly, we can't imagine ever having an issue pulling this bag.

The Details: Carry-on | 23.5 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches | 7.5 pounds | 64-liter capacity | Expandable | Polyester, carbon fiber

• PHOTO: Travel & Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Hardside Carry-on

Delsey paris x united colors of bennetton carry-on spinner.

It's so much more spacious than it looks, and it has a durable hardside shell.

The handle wobbles slightly when in use.

Don't let this Delsey carry-on's small stature fool you — it's built to haul plenty of items from points A to B. We were able to fit everything on our packing list (including multiple outfits, toiletries, and shoes) with ease. While this bag doesn't have an expander, it does have quite a bit of give, which allows for a few extra items. It's also equipped with compression straps and an internal pocket for added space and organization.

At right around 6 pounds, this bag is incredibly lightweight , which is ideal for overpackers whose luggage tends to exceed weight limits at the airport. And despite its weight, it actually performed beautifully through all our lab tests — from rolling seamlessly over multiple surfaces to getting tossed around and whacked with a baseball bat without a scratch or dent. While the handle seemed to wobble a bit as we wheeled the bag around, it remained intact through our tests and fully supported the weight of the bag. This limited-edition collab between Delsey and the United Colors of Benetton is almost sold out, so get it while you can.

The Details: Carry-on | 21.75 x 13.75 x 9.75 inches | 6.2 pounds | 48-liter capacity | ABS/polycarbonate blend

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Underseater

Samsonite spinner underseater.

This underseater stood out for its exceptional organization features, quality construction, and flawless maneuverability.

It was a tight squeeze to fit the suitcase into our simulated underseat area, so it could be too large for smaller planes.

Designed to fit under most airline seats and small enough to qualify as a personal item, the Samsonite Spinner Underseater impressed us with its good looks and quality materials. We liked the smart color choices, too, which range from jet black to ocean or purple. Organization is a highlight, with front and side pockets for storing items you want to keep within easy reach and a spacious main compartment with a padded laptop sleeve. We were able to fit everything on our list for a two-day trip, even without compression straps. 

The front pocket includes an organizer panel with slots for your credit cards and pens. And there’s a USB port for on-the-go charging (although you’ll need to purchase a power bank separately ). We found the underseater amazingly easy to maneuver through our obstacle course thanks to its multidirectional spinner wheels and retractable, locking handle. It rolled smoothly and was light enough to pick up by the top handle for seamless transitions between stairs, escalators, and rougher terrains.

The Details: Personal item | 16.5 x 13.8 x 9 inches | 7 pounds | 2.89-liter capacity | USB port | Polyester

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Garment Bag

Misslo 43-inch gusseted travel garment bag.

This garment bag is easy to operate and comfortable to carry using the heavy-duty handles.

The length is a little too short for longer dresses, and we would have liked a few more pockets.

The Misslo Gusseted Travel Garment Bag is made from a breathable, nonwoven fabric that feels somewhat flimsy but is actually thicker than similar budget options we’ve seen. It’s best suited to light travel and is not water resistant. We loved the bag’s straightforwardness, though. It took less than a minute to pack, folds in half easily, and boasts sturdy carry handles that are comfortable even after an extended period of time. You can also pack the folded garment bag into your checked luggage. 

There’s a hole in the top for up to five clothes hangers for easy storage at your destination. We were able to fit two dresses, a dress shirt, dress pants, a suit jacket, and a belt with space leftover, although we had to fold long dresses awkwardly to fit them in (but there are longer versions available). There is a single clear plastic, zippered accessory pocket; ideally, we’d add a few more. We liked the clear window for viewing contents, though.

The Details: Personal item | 43 x 22.6 x 3.5 inches | 7.8 ounces

Best Duffel

Gonex canvas duffel bag.

This duffel offers two comfortable carrying methods and ample pockets for easy organization.

The main compartment is a little small, and we found the relatively narrow opening made packing somewhat tricky.

Made from high-density cotton canvas with plastic feet to keep it off the ground, the Gonex Canvas Duffel Bag impressed us during our durability tests. We felt the material was likely to last and easy to keep clean. The interior has one small, zippered pocket. We found the main compartment a little tight and had to use the exterior pockets to fit everything in. However, we loved the lengthways expansion feature and the fact that the side pockets are spacious enough to accommodate a pair of low profile shoes. 

The duffel also stands out for its easy portability, offering two comfortable carrying methods. We liked that you can fasten the top grab handles with a Velcro strap for added security and cushioning. And the adjustable, removable shoulder strap is padded enough to make lengthy cross-terminal walks a breeze. We found that the bag’s overall aesthetic does not look particularly high-quality, but we like that it comes in classic shades of gray, army green, and blue.

The Details: Carry-on | 20.8 x 11.8 x 9.8 inches | 2.9 pounds | 50-liter capacity | Expandable | Cotton canvas, nylon

Travel + Leisure / Nick Kova

Best Weekender

Hyc00 travel duffel bag.

This weekender offers great style and durability for a very reasonable price.

Don’t expect to be able to fit enough for more than a couple of nights away.

Constructed of high-density, water-resistant nylon, the HYC00 Travel Duffel Bag survived our durability tests without a mark. This weekender is designed to adhere to airline carry-on restrictions and offers multiple carrying methods. We found the top handles and the removable, adjustable shoulder strap soft and comfortable. We also appreciated the integrated trolley sleeve, which allows you to attach the bag seamlessly to your other luggage. 

The bag offers abundant organization with six internal pockets and two external ones. We liked the open pocket on the outside of the bag for keeping quick-grab items handy. On the inside, our favorite feature was the waterproof pocket for separating toiletries or damp clothes. We were able to fit everything on our packing list; however, there wasn’t much space leftover (don’t expect to pack for longer than a weekend away). The bag comes in colors to suit all tastes, from coral red to olive green.

The Details: Carry-on | 21.7 x 10.6 x 7.1 inches | 1.3 pounds | 30-liter capacity | Nylon | Water resistant

Best Laptop Backpack

Tzowla travel laptop backpack.

This backpack is lightweight, impressively water resistant, and offers pockets for every purpose.

You will need to purchase a separate power bank if you want to use the integrated USB port.

The Tzowla Travel Laptop Backpack is made from durable 300-denier nylon, which held up impressively in the pouring rain. It’s much more spacious than similar backpacks we own yet lighter and less bulky when fully loaded. We loved its many pockets, including a padded section for laptops of up to 15.6 inches and double-sided pockets for your water bottle and umbrella. There’s even an organizer in the zippered front pocket with slots for your pens and a dedicated key fob. 

Our favorite features include the integrated USB and headphone ports, and the combination zipper lock. We felt the lock was a particularly thoughtful touch considering the backpack is designed for carrying valuable tech . There’s even a small zippered compartment on the back of the bag for keeping valuables safely against your body when you’re in an area prone to pickpocketing . Finally, we found the backpack extremely comfortable thanks to wide, padded shoulder straps with a breathable mesh lining.

The Details: Personal item | 20 x 11.8 x 5.5 inches | 1.8 pounds | USB and headphone ports | Polyester

Best Packable Backpack

Osprey ultralight stuff pack.

This backpack folds up into a tiny square so you can easily pack it into a larger suitcase if you need an extra bag.

There is no padding or structure to this backpack because of how lightweight it is.

You never know when you may need an extra bag on your travels, and this Osprey backpack folds into a compact square that you can pack inside a suitcase or weekender. "This backpack takes up no room at all inside another bag, and you'd be able to pack this anywhere — even in your pocket," says T+L testing editor Jackie Cucco , who tested this bag during a packable backpack test .

It's on the smaller size for a backpack, though it did hold most of our packing list, including a pair of shoes and a fleece pullover. Though it's not padded or structured at all, it is outfitted with several pockets, including a small interior slip pocket with a key leash and two stretchy exterior slip pockets. Other features include adjustable shoulder straps and smooth zippers. We think it's a great choice for a foldable bag from a trusted outdoor gear brand.

The Details: Personal item | 7.48 x 8.66 x 16.54 inches | 5.3 ounces | 18-liter capacity | Nylon

Best Rolling Duffel

Travelers club upright rolling duffel bag.

This rolling duffel offers space for days and enough pockets to satisfy even the most strategic packer.

Some effort is required to maneuver the duffel over rough or uneven surfaces.

The Travelers Club Xpedition 30-inch Upright Rolling Duffel is made from adventure-ready 600-denier polyester, which stood up to our durability tests without a single dent or tear. Two in-line blade wheels make it easy to transport heavy loads, although we felt that the retractable handle could benefit from a smoother, longer extension. The duffel rolled smoothly over concrete and paver gaps but was a little trickier to maneuver over carpet and gravel. 

We loved the deceptive spaciousness of the main compartment, which easily accommodated 10 to 14 days’ worth of winter clothing with room leftover. It’s completely unstructured to suit the “chuck it all in” packer but complemented by a slew of external zippered pockets for the more organized traveler. Other perks include two hard plastic feet so that the duffel can stand upright on its own and a trifold bottom board for compact storage. Choose yours in plain black or with colored accents ranging from burnt orange to forest green.

The Details: Checked suitcase | 30 x 13 x 12 inches | 6.7 pounds | 77-liter capacity | 600D polyester

Best Briefcase

Vankean laptop briefcase.

The quantity and sizing of the various interior pockets make this an organizer's dream.

The bag looks a bit clunky.

For any professional looking for a well-organized personal item or commuter bag , this strong and durable briefcase is the perfect choice. While it may not be the most lightweight option, nearing 3 pounds when empty, this bag features so many organizational components that even the less neat travelers will be able to keep all of their items in place. The well-sized bag fit every item on our packing list without becoming too cumbersome to carry for long periods of time thanks to padded, wide straps that grip the shoulder and help distribute weight. We also love the amount of padding along the lining of the bag itself, so items — including laptops and tablets — will stay protected even after dropping the bag. The exterior is also resistant to water for an added layer of durability against rain or spills.

The Details: Personal item | 18 x 12.8 x 7.5 inches | 2.88 pounds | Canvas polyester | Water resistant

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Leticia Almeida

Other Affordable Luggage Pieces We Liked

Here are some other luggage pieces worth mentioning. Though we found some minor issues during testing, they could still be a fit for certain travelers.

Coolife Carry-on With Pocket : We loved this bag’s attractive aesthetic, roomy interior, and butter-smooth zippers. It survived our durability tests without a mark but lost points for a lack of maneuverability and interior compartments that were a little too tight. 

Travelpro Maxlite Air Carry-on Expandable Hardside Spinner : Although we were able to fit everything on our packing list inside, it was a squeeze even with the expansion feature. The suitcase was also much easier to maneuver on two wheels than four; however, we were impressed by its durability and clever organization features. 

Seyfocnia Convertible Carry-on Travel Garment Bag : We loved this bag’s intuitive design, which includes convenient straps, spacious pockets, and sturdy zippers. It was comfortable to carry, and if we had to change anything, we'd addwe wish it had a padded laptop sleeve. 

Traveler’s Choice Lares Carry-on Spinner : We love that this expandable carry-on is easy to pack and is large enough to hold all of the essentials, but we thought the wheels felt flimsy, and we wish they were more durable.

We are constantly testing luggage in our New York City lab, and for this article we put together a list of the more affordable pieces that also performed well. First, we weighed each bag, then examined it to determine the quality of its materials and hardware. Next, we packed each bag with a prescribed list of items designed to imitate a real-life trip, taking note of capacity and organization features. 

If the suitcase had wheels, we rolled it around on concrete, carpet, and gravel to see how smooth they felt. We also took each suitcase through an obstacle course meant to mimic a busy station or airport to check how well it handled tight turns. If the bag had straps, we carried it around for at least 5 minutes to see if they were comfortable. We placed carry-ons and underseaters into overhead bins and underneath airplane seats on our mock airplane set.

Finally, all bags were subjected to a durability test. We pushed each fully packed bag off a counter or from the top of a stepladder multiple times, then beat them repeatedly with a baseball bat to see how well the exterior, interior, and contents withstood rough handling. We took notes on the capacity, design, durability, maneuverability, and value of each bag, choosing the lowest cost bags with the highest results for this article. We will continue testing each bag on our travels over the course of six months, and we are constantly testing new bags to update our articles with the latest results.

Tips for Buying Affordable Luggage

Decide if you want hardside or softside .

Luggage falls into two main categories: hardside and softside . There are pros and cons to each, and you must decide which best suits your needs. Hardside luggage is made from strong, lightweight materials such as polycarbonate or ABS plastic. The rigidity affords an extra level of protection for fragile items, while these materials’ natural water-resistance is great in inclement weather. They are easier to wipe clean and may look new for longer, although some styles are prone to scuffs, scratches, and dents. Hardside luggage is also not particularly flexible, making it harder to close when you stuff it full.

Softside luggage is typically made from durable nylon, polyester, or canvas. It’s often lower in cost, making it a good bet for those on a budget (although this is obviously brand dependent). The added flexibility is a pro for overpackers or those who need to fit irregularly shaped objects into their backpack or duffel bag . Adventure travelers often prefer softside luggage, because it’s easier to throw into small spaces (like the back of a safari jeep or the hold of a cross-country bus), and it's usually more lightweight than hardside bags. These are less prone to scratches; however, the fabric may stain or fade and is harder to clean. 

Prioritize well-made items

When it comes to affordability, it’s important to consider cost per use and not just the initial layout. Sure, you can find a suitcase for $20, but if it only lasts for two trips before the wheels and zipper break, it could be more expensive in the long run than a pricier option that lasts for several years. Quality is key if you’re looking for good value. We recommend choosing luggage that prioritizes durable materials (including sturdy hardware), while keeping costs down by forgoing luxury extras.

No matter where you're going or how long you're staying, you don't want to be lugging around some poorly made suitcase that falls apart on the first leg of your journey. A good way to make sure you’re buying a reliable product is to stick with a trusted midrange brand like Travelpro or Samsonite and to diligently check industry and customer reviews. Just remember: you don't have to spend a ton of cash to get something that's sturdy and reliable. The key is knowing what you want and doing your homework beforehand.

Look at special features

Although you wouldn't want to pay more for unnecessary frills, it may help you decide between two suitcases if they're around the same price point and one has some extra features, like an expandable zipper to add extra space or USB ports to charge your phone on the go. It's helpful to explore the features ahead of time so that you're aware of what you're buying because some bags have more to offer than others. Smart features can mean many different things — even if the bag has a charging port, the power bank might not be included. If you're looking at suitcases, look at photos or descriptions of the interior to see what types of pockets there are (or if there are no pockets at all). For weekenders and duffel bags, see how many different handles there are — some have removable straps so you can carry them multiple ways. Read the descriptions thoroughly to avoid surprises.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you really only need a single suitcase, then of course you’ll spend less buying it separately. But if you’re in the market for a whole new set (whether that’s for different types of trips, for that coordinated look at the luggage carousel, or to divide between family members), then buying luggage as a set is typically — but not always — a lower cost than buying each piece individually. Sets most commonly come with two or three pieces: a carry-on and one or two checked bags of varying sizes. You can also find sets with many more pieces, from underseaters to totes. Make sure to buy only what you’ll actually use if you’re trying to stick to a budget. 

Often, buying luggage online is significantly cheaper than buying in-store. This is especially true if you use a retailer like Amazon, Target, or Walmart that offers many reliable luggage brands and the option to filter results by price for a side-by-side comparison on what’s available at your chosen price point. The ability to view unbiased customer reviews also helps ensure what you see is what you get and that the luggage is of the kind of quality you can live with. Don’t forget “own-brand” luggage from Amazon Basics and Walmart’s Protégé line — they may not have many bells and whistles, but they offer reliable products at a very reasonable rate. If you're not in a rush to buy, you can wait for big shopping events to find some suitcases on sale.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L contributor Jessica Macdonald has been writing about the travel industry, with a particular focus on luggage, for more than a decade. For this article, she drew inspiration from her own research and the results of laboratory tests carried out on nearly 500 different luggage pieces by T+L’s team of travel experts. 

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