Best Travel Totes: Top Picks for Stylish and Functional Travel in 2024

For those who, like me, find themselves captivated by handbags, understanding their true value goes beyond mere aesthetics. Among my extensive collection, tote bags stand out as the unsung heroes of functionality. Whether you’re navigating a daily commute or embarking on an exotic beach getaway, a well-chosen travel tote is indispensable for keeping your essential items organized, secure, and easily accessible. However, not all totes are created equal. The subtle nuances in design and features are what truly distinguish an exceptional travel tote from the rest.

If you’re considering retiring your worn-out canvas bag and investing in a significant upgrade, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve rigorously tested and curated a list of the Best Travel Totes available, bags we genuinely rely on for our own travels and daily routines.

Our selection process is thorough. We’ve sifted through hundreds of tote bags, and only those that consistently meet or exceed our stringent criteria for capacity, comfort, quality, durability, and organization have made the final cut. From sophisticated totes perfect for city explorations and scenic picnics to robust options designed for demanding work trips and adventurous excursions, we’ve identified the ideal tote for every conceivable travel scenario.

For those seeking a versatile, all-encompassing solution that excels in most situations, we wholeheartedly recommend the MZ Wallace Deluxe Tote as our top overall choice. Its proven longevity and seemingly limitless space make it an unparalleled travel companion.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

MZ Wallace Deluxe Tote

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PHOTO: Nordstrom

$275 at Nordstrom $275 at Neiman Marcus View on Maisonette.com

Why We Love It: This tote is exceptionally spacious yet remarkably lightweight, featuring cleverly concealed zippered compartments for optimal organization.

What to Consider: Its unstructured design means items at the bottom might require a bit of digging to access.

If maximizing space is your priority in a travel tote, the MZ Wallace Deluxe Tote is an unparalleled choice. We’ve personally tested the medium size, which offers an abundance of room, and it also comes in a large size for those needing even more storage capacity. Despite its generous dimensions, the signature nylon material is incredibly lightweight and remarkably durable. We have firsthand accounts from users who have relied on bags made from the same material for a decade or more, attesting to its lasting quality. The only trade-off for its lightness is a somewhat relaxed structure, which might require a little extra effort to locate smaller items when the bag isn’t fully packed.

Beyond its impressive longevity, the MZ Wallace Deluxe Tote earns our ‘Best Overall’ title due to its exceptional organizational capabilities. It boasts zippered pockets both on the inside and discreetly on the exterior, perfect for stowing frequently needed items like your phone, wallet, Kindle, and passport for quick access. We particularly appreciate the interior leashed zip pouch and the thoughtfully designed built-in trolley sleeve on the back, making airport navigation seamless. It’s truly an ideal travel companion, but with its everyday practicality, don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to bag for daily use as well.

The Details: 11.6 x 9.4 x 12.7 inches | Material: Nylon, Leather Accents

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alt=”MZ Wallace Deluxe Tote showcasing its lightweight nylon material and spacious interior.”
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alt=”Close-up of the MZ Wallace Deluxe Tote highlighting the zippered exterior pocket for easy access to essentials.”
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alt=”Interior view of the MZ Wallace Deluxe Tote showing its roomy main compartment and organizational pockets.”
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alt=”Person carrying the versatile MZ Wallace Deluxe Tote, demonstrating its suitability for travel and daily use.”
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alt=”Detail shot of the MZ Wallace Deluxe Tote’s durable nylon fabric and leather trim, emphasizing its quality.”

Best Machine Washable

Baggu Duck Bag

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PHOTO: Baggu

$42 at Amazon View on Baggu.com

Why We Love It: This exceptionally practical tote can be easily rolled up for compact packing and includes a convenient adjustable crossbody strap for versatile carrying options.

What to Consider: We found the top handles somewhat redundant in design, as the crossbody strap often proves more functional for travel.

The Baggu Duck Bag is specifically designed with travel and active lifestyles in mind, thanks to its machine washable canvas construction. This feature significantly reduces the stress of keeping your bag pristine while you’re on the move. The durable canvas material is also remarkably lightweight, ensuring it won’t weigh you down, even when packed full. During a week-long trip to Portugal, our testers were impressed by its capacity, easily accommodating a towel, Kindle, water bottle, and a complete change of clothes. For smaller items like phones and keys, the exterior zip pocket provides secure and accessible storage.

Further enhancing its travel-friendly appeal are features like the adjustable crossbody strap for comfortable, hands-free carrying, and a zippered top that effectively prevents items from spilling out during transit. The bag’s flexible structure also allows it to be rolled up tightly, making it a breeze to pack within a suitcase when not in use. Style-conscious travelers will appreciate the variety of options, from classic black to an array of vibrant, colorful prints to match personal aesthetics.

The Details: 15.75 x 11 x 4.75 inches | Material: Canvas

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alt=”Baggu Duck Bag worn crossbody, demonstrating its lightweight and comfortable carry for travel.”
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alt=”Side view of the Baggu Duck Bag in use, highlighting its practical size and design for everyday adventures.”
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alt=”Close-up of the Baggu Duck Bag showing the adjustable crossbody strap and zippered closure for security.”
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alt=”Baggu Duck Bag being opened to reveal its spacious main compartment, suitable for travel essentials.”
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alt=”Person showcasing the Baggu Duck Bag’s casual style and ease of carrying while traveling outdoors.”

I’m a Carry-on-only Traveler, and This Genius Tote Is My Secret to Never Checking a Bag

Best Suede

Milaner Woven Handbag

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PHOTO: Milaner

View on Bymilaner.com

Why We Love It: The Milaner Woven Handbag boasts two generously sized zippered compartments that provide ample storage and thoughtfully designed rolled straps that comfortably stay in place on your shoulder.

What to Consider: A zip-top closure option is not available, and the suede material may require more diligent care to maintain cleanliness, especially during travel.

For a tote bag that elegantly combines sophistication with travel practicality, the Milaner Woven Handbag is an exceptional choice. Our team personally tested the taupe suede version and found it incredibly versatile, complementing a wide array of outfits, from casual to more dressed-up ensembles. With an impressive palette of over a dozen color options, you’re sure to find a Milaner tote that perfectly aligns with your personal style. While suede demands a bit more attention to maintain its pristine condition—a factor to consider if you’re planning adventurous travels—Milaner also offers a leather version, which may be easier to keep clean. (Travel tip: We recommend storing your suede tote in a dust bag when traveling by air to protect it.)

A standout feature we appreciate is the bag’s comfortable fit; it doesn’t feel bulky or cumbersome when carried on the shoulder. Moreover, the inclusion of two large, zippered compartments inside is a significant advantage for organization and security. We’ve been able to effortlessly pack a laptop, over-ear headphones, a cozy sweater, and all essential smaller items such as lip gloss, keys, and a wallet simultaneously, making it a highly functional yet stylish travel companion.

The Details: 20 x 14 x 3 inches | Material: Suede

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alt=”Milaner Woven Handbag in suede carried over the shoulder, showcasing its elegant and travel-ready style.”
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alt=”Side profile of the Milaner Woven Handbag, emphasizing its sophisticated design and comfortable shoulder straps.”
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alt=”Milaner Woven Handbag being worn, highlighting its size and how it complements a travel outfit.”
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alt=”Milaner Woven Handbag displayed showing its woven suede texture and overall craftsmanship.”
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alt=”Interior of the Milaner Woven Handbag, showcasing the two zippered compartments and spacious storage.”

Best Packable

Longchamp Le Pliage Large Tote

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PHOTO: Nordstrom

$255 at Amazon $155 at Nordstrom $155 at Bloomingdales

Why We Love It: The defining feature of the Longchamp Le Pliage is its exceptional packability; this tote folds down to a remarkably small size when not in use, making it an ideal space-saver for travelers.

What to Consider: The shoulder straps are not padded, which may be less comfortable when carrying heavier loads for extended periods. Also, it features only one interior slip pocket for minimal organization.

The Le Pliage is not just a tote bag; it’s an icon in the world of travel accessories, and for good reason. Having personally used and tested the Le Pliage, we are not at all surprised by its enduring popularity. Its timeless aesthetic is matched by its robust construction and ingenious design, which allows it to fold neatly into a compact pouch for effortless packing. This dual functionality makes it an excellent choice for both minimalist travelers who prioritize space and maximalist packers who appreciate extra capacity when needed.

With both a secure zippered top and a signature leather snap-flap closure, the Le Pliage provides an added layer of security, which brings peace of mind, especially when navigating crowded public transportation or busy tourist areas. While we noted the desire for more organizational features—specifically, the bag includes only a single interior slip pocket—the overall utility and stylish design of the Le Pliage make it a top contender in the realm of packable travel totes. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a more reliable and chic option that combines practicality with iconic style.

The Details: 12.2 x 11.8 x 7.5 inches | Material: Recycled Polyamide Canvas, Leather Trim

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alt=”Longchamp Le Pliage Tote, known for its lightweight and foldable design, perfect for travel.”
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alt=”Person carrying the Longchamp Le Pliage Tote, showcasing its classic style and practicality as a travel tote.”
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alt=”Detail view of the Longchamp Le Pliage Tote, highlighting its leather flap and zipper closure for added security.”
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alt=”Longchamp Le Pliage Tote in an outdoor setting, illustrating its versatility for various travel environments.”
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alt=”Front view of the Longchamp Le Pliage Tote, showcasing its structured yet flexible nylon material.”

Best Multi-use

Dakine Verge Weekender Tote

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PHOTO: Dakine

$105 $73 at Amazon $79 at Backcountry View on Dakine.com

Why We Love It: The Dakine Verge Weekender Tote excels in versatility, proving useful for a wide range of activities, from carrying blankets and picnic essentials to groceries and travel gear.

What to Consider: When fully loaded, this tote can become quite heavy, which might be a consideration for those preferring lighter carry options.

Sometimes, what you truly need is a reliable, generously sized, and robust bag ready to tackle any spontaneous occasion – and the Dakine Verge Weekender Tote perfectly fits this description. Crafted from durable nylon, this tote has accompanied our team on numerous adventures, from rigorous hikes and beach outings to countless grocery store runs. We frequently rely on it for transporting food and blankets to outdoor music festivals and events. While the top handles are designed to be hand-carried and not slung over the shoulder, the inclusion of a detachable shoulder strap is a thoughtful addition, proving invaluable when the bag is packed with heavier items. Additional practical features include protective padding along the base and sides, and a convenient luggage sleeve on the back, allowing it to be easily paired with rolling suitcases for seamless airport travel. In the realm of oversized totes, the Dakine Verge Weekender stands out as a stellar multi-use option, adept at handling both everyday activities and more extended travel needs.

The Details: 23.5 x 16 x 11 inches | Material: Recycled Nylon

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alt=”Dakine Verge Weekender Tote being held, demonstrating its large size and versatile design for travel.”
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alt=”Side view of the Dakine Verge Weekender Tote, highlighting its durable nylon material and robust construction.”
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alt=”Frontal shot of the Dakine Verge Weekender Tote, emphasizing its spacious main compartment and multi-use functionality.”
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alt=”Dakine Verge Weekender Tote carried by handles, showing its sturdy straps and balanced design.”
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alt=”Close-up of the Dakine Verge Weekender Tote’s fabric texture and durable material, suitable for various activities.”

Best With Shoe Compartment

Caraa Sport Tote

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PHOTO: Caraa

View on Caraa.co

Why We Love It: The Caraa Sport Tote is exceptionally organized, featuring a separate compartment ideal not just for shoes but for various items you wish to keep distinct, along with a total of 10 thoughtfully placed pockets.

What to Consider: To fully access and unzip the bottom shoe compartment, the bag needs to be laid on its side, which may require a bit of maneuvering.

This tote bag redefines organization with an almost unbelievable number of pockets—more than one might even find immediate uses for, which is, undeniably, a positive attribute. The zippered bottom compartment is ingeniously designed for shoes, but its utility extends far beyond footwear. We’ve found it incredibly useful for separating items like damp swimwear after a swim or as a dedicated space for snacks, keeping them apart from other essentials. For those times when you need to maximize the bag’s overall volume, the shoe compartment can be unzipped from the inside, effectively merging it with the main compartment to utilize the bag’s full capacity.

Despite being marketed as a gym bag, the Caraa Sport Tote has proven to be a versatile travel companion. It has accompanied our team as a personal item on both planes and trains throughout a trip in Portugal, demonstrating its adaptability to various travel modes. The integrated yoga mat straps can also double as holders for items like sweaters or lightweight jackets, and the detachable backpack straps offer hands-free convenience, particularly useful when navigating airports or train stations while also managing luggage. If functionality and organization are high on your list, this tote is sure to impress and will not disappoint.

The Details: 14 x 21.5 x 8 inches | Material: Nylon, Vegan Leather Accents

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alt=”Caraa Sport Tote worn as a backpack, showing its convertible straps and versatile carrying options for travel.”
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alt=”Person carrying the Caraa Sport Tote as a backpack, highlighting its comfort and suitability for active travel.”
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alt=”Detailed view of the Caraa Sport Tote, showcasing its multiple straps and organizational features for diverse travel needs.”
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alt=”Caraa Sport Tote placed on top of luggage, illustrating its convenient size for travel and integration with suitcase systems.”
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alt=”Overhead view of the Caraa Sport Tote, showing its layout and accessible compartments for organized packing.”

Best Stain-resistant

Naghedi St. Barths Medium Tote

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PHOTO: Naghedi

View on Naghedinyc.com

Why We Love It: The Naghedi St. Barths Medium Tote seamlessly transitions from a dependable work bag to a stylish travel tote, crafted from low-maintenance neoprene that’s both durable and chic.

What to Consider: While it includes a zip pouch for essentials, the tote lacks additional interior pockets for enhanced organization within the main compartment.

Suede and leather totes certainly exude a luxurious appeal, but they may not be the most practical choice for those of us who are less meticulous about bag care. The Naghedi tote emerges as an excellent alternative, capturing the sought-after aesthetic of woven leather totes but constructed from highly durable neoprene. This material is not only incredibly lightweight but also remarkably stain-resistant. Beyond our travel evaluations, we’ve used this bag extensively in the hustle and bustle of New York City, and it has consistently remained spotless. Furthermore, its resilience makes it ideal for beach trips, eliminating worries about sand or water damage.

While the interior design is minimalist, lacking built-in pockets—which might be a drawback for some—it does include a matching zip pouch. This pouch is perfectly sized for securing your most essential items, such as cash, cards, and keys, ensuring they are readily accessible yet secure. Adding to its appeal, the St. Barths tote is available in an extensive range of over a dozen colors and four sizes, offering a wealth of choices to suit individual preferences and needs.

The Details: 9.5 x 17 x 7 inches | Material: Neoprene

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alt=”Naghedi St. Barths Medium Tote in hand, showcasing its stain-resistant neoprene material and stylish woven design.”
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alt=”Side view of the Naghedi St. Barths Medium Tote, highlighting its elegant shape and practical size for daily use and travel.”
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alt=”Person carrying the Naghedi St. Barths Medium Tote, demonstrating its lightweight and comfortable design for on-the-go lifestyles.”
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alt=”Naghedi St. Barths Medium Tote in use, illustrating its versatility as both a work and travel bag.”
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alt=”Close-up of the Naghedi St. Barths Medium Tote, emphasizing its woven neoprene texture and durable, stain-resistant material.”

Best Convertible

Bellroy Lite Totepack

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PHOTO: Bellroy

$129 at Amazon View on Bellroy.com

Why We Love It: The Bellroy Lite Totepack offers generous space and the unique feature of backpack straps that can be neatly concealed within their own designated pocket when not in use, providing exceptional versatility.

What to Consider: When utilized as a backpack, the top tote handles tend to hang loosely, which some users might find slightly cumbersome or aesthetically unappealing.

Convertible bags are a favorite among travelers and everyday commuters alike, prized for their adaptability. I personally rely on Oleada’s convertible laptop backpack constantly. However, if you’re in the market for something with a more sporty or casual vibe, the Bellroy Lite Totepack stands out with its innovative two-in-one carry design. Unlike many backpack totes that feature permanently attached straps, the Bellroy distinguishes itself with backpack straps that are not only detachable but also stowable. You can easily unclip the straps and tuck them away into a specially designed pocket, a feature that sets it apart. This clever design ensures that the backpack straps remain completely out of sight and won’t dangle or interfere when you’re using it in tote mode.

While the Bellroy Lite Totepack may not have a highly structured form, it compensates with ample interior space. During our testing phase in Seattle, we found it readily accommodated everyday essentials such as a wallet, water bottle, snacks, sunglasses, a light long-sleeved shirt, and various smaller items. It even managed to fit a small painting we spontaneously picked up from a local farmer’s market, highlighting its surprising capacity and flexibility for spontaneous acquisitions while on the go.

The Details: 15.7 x 15.7 x 6.7 inches | Material: Nylon, Polyester

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alt=”Bellroy Lite Totepack worn as a backpack, demonstrating its convertible feature and comfortable carry.”
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alt=”Bellroy Lite Totepack held as a tote, showcasing its clean lines and versatile design for different carrying preferences.”
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alt=”Close-up of the Bellroy Lite Totepack straps, highlighting the convertible design and quality of materials.”
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alt=”Bellroy Lite Totepack being unzipped, revealing its spacious interior and easy access for packing and unpacking.”
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alt=”Overhead shot of the Bellroy Lite Totepack, showing its overall shape and design as a versatile travel tote.”

Most Durable

Yeti Camino 35 Carryall

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PHOTO: Amazon

$224 at Amazon $150 at Dicks Sporting Goods View on Yeti.com

Why We Love It: The Yeti Camino 35 Carryall is constructed from waterproof and puncture-proof material, making it exceptionally robust and ready for the toughest conditions.

What to Consider: The tote features an open top without a closure, which may not be ideal for situations where you need to secure contents, such as outdoor camping with food items that could attract animals.

While many of our featured totes are well-suited for outdoor use, the Yeti Camino 35 Carryall elevates durability to a new standard with its construction from waterproof and puncture-proof materials. This exceptionally sturdy tote is engineered to hold its shape reliably, allowing you to simply drop in items like blankets, snacks, and gear without concern for them shifting or the bag losing form. Our team utilized the Camino 35 to transport an entire Thanksgiving feast, and remarkably, none of the dishes moved during transit, a testament to the bag’s rigid structure. We’ve also put this tote to the test on camping trips, finding it invaluable for storing wet gear, equipment, and food supplies. (Note: Given its open-top design, it’s best suited for car camping if you plan to store food, as it doesn’t offer sealed protection from wildlife.)

Beyond adventurous excursions, the Yeti Camino 35 Carryall proves to be incredibly practical for everyday tasks around the home. We find it excellent for hauling groceries, particularly heavy or bulky items, or as a picnic bag, thanks to its rubberized material that’s easily wiped clean. Adding to its versatility, it’s available in a range of colors, from understated gray to vibrant blue, allowing you to choose a style that matches your needs and preferences.

The Details: 18.1 x 9.8 x 15.2 inches | Material: Vinyl

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alt=”Yeti Camino 35 Carryall worn over the shoulder, showing its robust build and durable material suitable for outdoor adventures.”
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alt=”Person carrying the Yeti Camino 35 Carryall, emphasizing its rugged design and capacity for heavy-duty use.”
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alt=”Yeti Camino 35 Carryall being held by handles, demonstrating its sturdy construction and suitability for outdoor activities.”
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alt=”Side profile of the Yeti Camino 35 Carryall, highlighting its durable vinyl material and robust design.”
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alt=”Yeti Camino 35 Carryall in action, illustrating its capacity and durability in an outdoor setting.”

Best Zipper Top

Cuyana System Zipper Tote 13-inch

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PHOTO: Cuyana

$428 at Cuyana.com

Why We Love It: The Cuyana System Zipper Tote offers extensive personalization through a range of add-on accessories, allowing you to customize this timeless tote to perfectly suit your individual needs and style.

What to Consider: Its 13-inch size might be on the smaller side for those planning extended trips or needing to carry a significant volume of items; it’s best suited for shorter travels or daily use.

A classic leather tote bag is an invaluable asset for both professional settings and travel, offering a blend of style and functionality. If you’re still in search of your quintessential leather tote, the Cuyana System Tote is a compelling option, particularly noted for its exceptional personalization capabilities. Cuyana offers a variety of add-on accessories, including a wide shoulder strap for enhanced comfort, a padded laptop sleeve for secure tech transport, and even a detachable pouch that can double as a chic clutch bag for evenings out. While each accessory is purchased separately, potentially increasing the overall investment, T+L editors concur that the exceptional quality of the Cuyana System Tote justifies the price. The leather exhibits a supremely luxurious look and feel, making it perfectly appropriate for formal work environments and upscale travel scenarios. A key feature we appreciate is the secure zip-top closure, providing extra security and peace of mind when you’re on the go. We’ve personally used it as a personal item on flights, though it’s worth considering that its 13-inch size may be more suitable for those who pack light or are planning shorter trips.

The Details: 11.5 x 17.75 x 5 inches | Material: Leather

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alt=”Cuyana System Zipper Tote carried on the shoulder, showcasing its elegant leather design and secure zipper top.”
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alt=”Side profile of the Cuyana System Zipper Tote, emphasizing its refined silhouette and premium leather material.”
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alt=”Person wearing the Cuyana System Zipper Tote, demonstrating its sophisticated style and practical size for professional and travel use.”
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alt=”Cuyana System Zipper Tote with top zipper closed, highlighting its security features and elegant design.”
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alt=”Interior view of the Cuyana System Zipper Tote, showcasing its organized space and premium leather lining.”

Best for the Outdoors

RTIC Ultra-tough Tote

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PHOTO: Amazon

View on Amazon View on Rticoutdoors.com

Why We Love It: Alongside its substantial capacity, the RTIC Ultra-tough Tote is equipped with waterproof pockets, adding an extra layer of protection for your valuables in outdoor settings.

What to Consider: Due to its distinctly rugged aesthetic, we might not recommend carrying this tote in urban settings outside of beach or poolside environments; its look is geared more towards outdoor and recreational use.

Similar to the YETI Carryall, this RTIC tote is engineered with an exceptionally tough material that’s both waterproof and puncture-resistant, and it also boasts the ability to stand upright on its own, simplifying packing and access. However, the RTIC Ultra-tough Tote distinguishes itself as even more beach-oriented, featuring waterproof zip pockets specifically designed to safeguard your phone and other electronics from splashes and moisture. Additionally, the open-top design includes a practical buckle strap, which is ideal for securing items like beach towels, ensuring they stay in place during transport. We tested the small size and found it comfortably carried over the shoulder while still offering ample space. While its robust, cooler-like appearance may not make it a go-to for everyday urban use, it provides unparalleled functionality for poolside, beachside, or boating activities.

The Details: 15 x 23.5 inches | Material: TPU-coated Nylon

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alt=”RTIC Ultra-tough Tote being held by handles, showcasing its durable and waterproof design for outdoor use.”
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alt=”Front view of the RTIC Ultra-tough Tote, highlighting its rugged construction and water-resistant features for beach or pool outings.”
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alt=”Interior of the RTIC Ultra-tough Tote, showing its spacious main compartment and waterproof pockets for secure storage.”
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alt=”Close-up of the waterproof pocket on the RTIC Ultra-tough Tote, emphasizing its protective features for electronics and valuables.”
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alt=”Detail shot of the RTIC Ultra-tough Tote, highlighting its robust TPU-coated nylon material and heavy-duty construction.”

Best for Laptops

Baggallini Carryall Laptop Tote

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PHOTO: Baggallini

$120 at Zappos View on Baggallini.com

Why We Love It: This Baggallini Carryall Laptop Tote is intelligently designed with a padded laptop sleeve and an abundance of compartments, effectively balancing security for tech with ample space for all your essentials.

What to Consider: Lacking significant structure, the tote can feel somewhat floppy or less defined when not fully packed, which may affect its visual appeal for some users.

When selecting a carry-on bag, I’ve often found myself in a dilemma, torn between the enhanced security of a dedicated laptop bag and the generous capacity of a large tote. The Baggallini Carryall Laptop Tote elegantly resolves this conflict, offering the best attributes of both worlds with its integrated padded laptop sleeve. Featuring a multitude of pockets both inside and out, it serves as an excellent replacement for a traditional work bag, streamlining your daily carry. It comes with a matching zip pouch that incorporates RFID-blocking technology and includes slots for credit cards—though I personally repurpose mine as a makeup bag. Additionally, another RFID-blocking pocket is conveniently sized for a passport, adding a layer of security for travel. The water-resistant and lightweight fabric ensures it won’t weigh you down on your daily commute, though it’s worth noting that this material choice also contributes to the bag being less structured compared to some other totes.

The Details: 19 x 12.5 x 5.5 inches | Material: Nylon

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alt=”Baggallini Carryall Laptop Tote, designed with a padded laptop compartment and multiple pockets for organized travel.”
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alt=”Person using the front pocket of the Baggallini Carryall Laptop Tote, demonstrating its easy-access storage for travel items.”
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alt=”Interior view of the Baggallini Carryall Laptop Tote showing the included matching zip pouch for accessories.”
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alt=”Baggallini Carryall Laptop Tote interior, highlighting its spacious compartments and organization features for laptops and travel essentials.”
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alt=”Close-up of the interior of the Baggallini Carryall Laptop Tote, emphasizing its water-resistant nylon lining and organizational pockets.”

Best for the Beach

Carve Designs Treasure Tote Bag

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PHOTO: Carve Designs

View on Carvedesigns.com

Why We Love It: The Carve Designs Treasure Tote Bag perfectly balances style and beach-readiness, offering a chic design that is comfortable to carry and versatile enough to double as a fashionable handbag.

What to Consider: While perfectly sized for personal beach essentials, a slightly larger version would enhance its capacity for carrying items for more than one person or for longer beach days.

For beach excursions where style is as crucial as function, the Carve Designs Treasure Tote Bag is our top recommendation. It provides ample room for essentials such as a beach towel, a book, a water bottle, and sunscreen, while also being stylish enough to use as an everyday handbag. We’ve found the fabric remarkably resistant to sand accumulation, a significant plus for beachgoers. This tote has become a frequent companion for beach trips, pool visits, and casual lunches alike. On the organizational front, it features a single interior pocket, which is sufficient for basic essentials, though minimalists will appreciate its simplicity. While we appreciate its current size, a slightly larger version would be ideal for accommodating an extra set of clothes or a towel for a companion. However, its current dimensions strike a good balance between portability and capacity. Unlike bulkier rubber beach totes, the Treasure Tote is easily foldable, making it convenient to pack in a suitcase for travel.

The Details: 14.5 x 15 inches | Material: Cotton

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alt=”Carve Designs Treasure Tote Bag laid flat, showcasing its stylish design and beach-ready cotton material.”
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alt=”Overhead view of the Carve Designs Treasure Tote Bag, emphasizing its fashionable appearance and practical size for beach essentials.”
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alt=”Carve Designs Treasure Tote Bag displayed flat, highlighting its texture and design details suitable for beach and casual outings.”
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alt=”Carve Designs Treasure Tote Bag in a beach setting, illustrating its style and functionality as a beach tote.”
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alt=”Carve Designs Treasure Tote Bag, showcasing its lightweight cotton material and foldable design for easy packing.”

Our Testing Process

To rigorously determine the best travel tote bags, we subjected each of our top picks to extensive real-world testing across various settings to evaluate their performance firsthand. These totes accompanied us on a range of trips, both domestically and internationally, and have been in continuous use for periods ranging from several months to years. With over 30 tote bags rigorously tested, we’ve assessed them in diverse travel scenarios — from being stowed under airplane seats and carried on trains to serving as our go-to picnic bags for local outings.

Throughout our travels, we meticulously evaluated each tote bag based on key criteria such as capacity, carrying comfort, material quality, overall durability, and organizational features. This thorough vetting process ensured that each bag met the rigorous demands of travel, both near and far. Our commitment to providing reliable recommendations is ongoing; we will continue to test new tote bags and update our list with fresh insights and findings as we explore new products and innovations in travel gear.

Tips for Buying a Travel Tote

Consider how the tote will be used

The ideal features of a travel tote can vary significantly based on its intended use. A tote designed for beach outings will have different requirements compared to one meant for long-haul flights or business travel. Thinking about the primary scenarios in which you’ll use your tote will help you identify essential features. For instance, for beach use, features like waterproof pockets and sand-resistant material are crucial. For crowded urban travel or commuting, security features such as zip-top closures and RFID-blocking pockets might be more important. And if you anticipate carrying bulky items like large towels, travel blankets, or sporting gear, prioritize totes with an extra-large capacity.

Look for travel-friendly features

While standard canvas tote bags are widely available and affordable, they often lack the specialized features that can significantly simplify and secure your travel experience. If you plan to use your tote in crowded environments, for example in airports or on public transport, we highly recommend opting for totes with zip-top closures to deter theft and prevent items from falling out. Totes with convertible straps, offering backpack and shoulder bag options, are particularly versatile, adapting to different carrying needs and situations. We also place high value on bags that include multiple pockets—both internal and external—allowing for easy access to frequently needed items like boarding passes, smartphones, passports, and wallets, keeping them organized and within reach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a tote bag count as a personal item on the plane?

Yes, generally, a tote bag is classified as a personal item by most airlines. However, it’s crucial to ensure that your tote bag is sized appropriately to fit under the seat in front of you, as this is a common requirement for personal items. Given that airline regulations can vary and may change, we always advise checking directly with your specific airline prior to traveling to confirm their personal item size restrictions and policies.
What fabric is best for tote bags?

Selecting the “best” fabric for a tote bag largely depends on the intended use of the bag, as well as your personal style preferences and practical needs. For activities around water, such as pool days or beach trips, we recommend opting for sturdy canvas or splash-resistant nylon materials, which are durable and easy to clean. For business trips or more formal travel scenarios, materials like leather offer a sophisticated and professional aesthetic. However, leather totes may require more care and might not be as practical for rugged travel conditions or for fitting into overhead bins without potential for scratching or damage. Consider nylon for a lightweight and durable option suitable for various travel needs, or canvas for a more casual yet sturdy everyday tote.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

As a seasoned fashion writer with over a decade of experience in the industry and an avid collector of handbags, contributor Ashley Phillips brings a wealth of knowledge and discerning taste to evaluating tote bags. Ashley, in collaboration with the Travel + Leisure editors, spearheaded the testing and insights compilation for this guide to the best tote bags. Her deep expertise and rigorous standards are evident in the top picks, which include her personal favorite, the Cuyana System Tote, alongside several other bags that have earned a spot on her personal wishlist. Ashley’s research for this article was heavily focused on identifying the features in each bag that would genuinely enhance the travel experience, ensuring that our recommendations are both stylish and functionally superior.

Edited by Jasmine Grant :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/JasmineGrant-c7aebf391faf4c1c8767a407a955548a.jpg)

Jasmine Grant

Jasmine is a Senior Editor at Travel + Leisure, specializing in luggage and travel accessories. With over ten years of experience as a writer and editor in lifestyle and travel media, Jasmine brings extensive expertise to her role. Outside of her editorial responsibilities, Jasmine is likely planning her next trip, often to a sunny Caribbean island.

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