The best travel totes are indispensable companions for any journey, offering a blend of style and practicality. They empower you to keep your essentials within arm’s reach, liberating your hands for crucial tasks like navigating your phone, managing your passport, or savoring a much-needed coffee. Whether you need a robust leather tote to safeguard your laptop or a packable canvas bag for spontaneous shopping, the ideal travel tote seamlessly integrates into your travel lifestyle. We’ve thoroughly examined a diverse array of options to present you with the top-rated travel totes available. Our premier recommendation is the MZ Wallace Large Metro Tote, celebrated for its exceptional organization with 11 pockets and its plush, quilted fabric that ensures shoulder comfort, further enhanced by a detachable crossbody strap.
The finest travel totes skillfully merge fashion and functionality, ensuring you remain organized and chic throughout your travels.
Illustration: Forbes / Photo: Retailers
The market presents a vast selection of tote bag styles, each tailored to specific travel needs. From an expandable tote featuring secure laptop storage to a luxurious leather carry-all exuding sophistication, and a dependable canvas tote for everyday versatility, our curated selection covers all bases. We’ve meticulously assessed the advantages and disadvantages of each option to empower you to make a well-informed purchasing decision. Below, discover our definitive guide to the top-rated travel totes of 2024.
Top-Rated Travel Tote Overall
Unmatched Organization and Comfort: The MZ Wallace Large Metro Tote Deluxe
MZ Wallace Large Metro Tote Deluxe
Materials: Rec oxford (proprietary recycled fabric), Italian leather trim | Colors: 6 options including Black Rec, Sandshell | Size: 14.5 x 11 x 14.5 inches | Weight: 2.1 pounds
Pros:
- Exceptional organization with 11 pockets
- Comfortable padded handles for easy carrying
- Versatile detachable crossbody strap
- Includes three detachable organizational pouches
Cons:
- Premium price point
The MZ Wallace Large Metro Tote Deluxe stands out as a top-rated travel tote due to its thoughtful design and luxurious feel. Crafted from a soft, quilted material, it offers unparalleled comfort and boasts an impressive 11 pockets designed for optimal organization. Five exterior pockets provide quick access to frequently needed items, while six interior pockets keep valuables secure and sorted. Adding to its organizational prowess, it includes three detachable pouches in varying sizes, perfect for cosmetics, liquids, snacks, or tech accessories. The main compartment features a secure zip closure, ensuring your belongings remain safe during travel. Practical features such as a key ring strap and protective leather feet at the base enhance its functionality and durability. The padded handles and detachable crossbody strap provide multiple carrying options for maximum comfort. Despite its generous capacity, this tote maintains a sleek profile, avoiding bulkiness even when fully packed, and offers sufficient space for use as an overnight bag. For shorter trips or lighter packing needs, MZ Wallace also offers the highly-rated Medium Metro Tote and Small Metro Tote, ensuring a top-rated option for every travel style.
Top-Rated Expandable Travel Tote
Maximize Space with the Calpak Luka Expandable Laptop Tote
Calpak Luka Expandable Laptop Tote
Materials: Polyester | Colors: 17 options including Gunmetal, Oatmeal | Size: 13.5 x 20 x 6.5 inches | Weight: 1.7 pounds
Pros:
- Expandable bottom for increased packing capacity
- Dedicated padded laptop and trolley sleeve for travel convenience
- Abundant interior pockets for organized storage
- Wide array of stylish and fun color choices
Cons:
- Softer exterior may offer less protection for delicate contents
For travelers who often find themselves needing just a bit more space, the Calpak Luka Expandable Laptop Tote is a top-rated solution. This ingeniously designed tote features an expandable bottom that increases its depth by up to four inches, providing valuable extra room when needed. Constructed from soft, padded polyester, the bag offers flexibility and “give” to accommodate overpacking. Beyond its expandable feature, this tote is packed with travel-friendly features, including a padded laptop sleeve to protect your device, interior compartments for smaller items ensuring organized packing, and a convenient trolley sleeve that allows it to securely attach to your rolling suitcase handle. Available in a vibrant palette of 17 colors, from classic neutrals to bold statement hues, the Luka Expandable Laptop Tote allows you to express your personal style while enjoying top-rated functionality.
Expert Insight: “This bag is a marvel of organization, featuring numerous compartments that simplify packing, including a dedicated bottom pocket perfect for shoes,” notes Forbes Vetted editor Sholeen Damarwala. “Its lightweight material and construction make it effortless to carry through airports. As a seasoned traveler, I’ve used it as both a diaper bag and a personal tote on countless trips and consistently been impressed by its performance and top-rated design.”
Top-Rated Affordable Travel Tote
Timeless Design and Durability: The L.L.Bean Boat and Tote Open Top
L.L.Bean Boat and Tote Open Top
Materials: Cotton canvas | Colors: 12 options including Mauve, Regatta Blue lining | Size: 13 x 12 x 6 inches | Weight: Not listed
Pros:
- Easily foldable for compact storage
- Exceptional 500-pound weight capacity
- Classic and versatile design complements any luggage and outfit
Cons:
- Lacks interior pockets for organization
- No zipper closure for added security
The L.L.Bean Boat and Tote Open Top has earned its top-rated status as a timeless classic, beloved for its enduring design and remarkable durability since its inception in 1944. Originally engineered for hauling ice, this tote is crafted from heavy-duty cotton canvas, capable of withstanding an impressive 500 pounds of weight. Despite its affordability, it sacrifices nothing in terms of robustness, ensuring it can handle even the heaviest travel essentials. While it opts for simplicity in organizational features, lacking interior pockets, its wide-open top design effortlessly accommodates items of various sizes, from laptops and shoes to beach blankets. Depending on the size chosen, it provides ample capacity for day trips or weekend getaways. For those prioritizing security, a zipped top version is also available, maintaining the top-rated quality and classic appeal of the original.
Top-Rated Leather Travel Tote
Luxury and Organization Combined: The Cuyana Easy Travel Tote
Cuyana Easy Travel Tote
Materials: Pebbled Italian leather | Colors: 5 options including Cappuccino, Black | Size: 14.2 x 25.3 x 6.3 inches | Weight: 2.9 pounds
Pros:
- Premium pebbled Italian leather is durable and develops a beautiful patina over time
- Exceptionally spacious interior for all your essentials
- Customizable with add-on organizers to personalize your packing
Cons:
- No exterior pocket or trolley sleeve for quick access or suitcase attachment
- Additional organizers are sold separately
For those seeking a top-rated leather travel tote that exudes luxury and sophistication, the Cuyana Easy Travel Tote is an exceptional choice. Crafted from supple pebbled Italian leather, this tote not only feels exquisite but is also designed to withstand the rigors of travel, aging gracefully over time. In our in-depth review, the Cuyana Easy Travel Tote received high praise for its durable and versatile design, perfectly suited for both short commutes and extended trips. Its spacious interior, secured with a zip-top closure, ensures your belongings are safely contained. Two large interior pockets provide designated space for items like books, tablets, or laptops, preventing them from getting lost in the main compartment. The comfortable leather straps are designed to distribute weight evenly, even when the bag is fully loaded. While it maintains a streamlined exterior without external pockets or a trolley sleeve, its top-rated craftsmanship and customizable interior make it a worthwhile investment. Enhance its organizational capabilities with optional add-ons like an adjustable wide strap, allowing you to tailor the tote to your specific needs.
Expert Insight: “Significantly larger and wider than the Classic Easy Zipper Tote, its smaller counterpart, the Easy Travel Tote effortlessly accommodated my 16-inch laptop, tablet, chargers, several changes of clothes, a denim jacket, shoes, and my purse—eliminating the need for a separate suitcase on a recent trip,” recounts Forbes Vetted senior travel editor Astrid Taran. “Despite its generous capacity, the tote maintained a sleek and elegant shape, making it perfectly suitable for carrying to a lunch meeting without appearing bulky or out of place, further solidifying its top-rated status.”
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Top-Rated Lightweight Travel Tote
Effortless Carry for Any Adventure: The Dagne Dover Small Vida Cotton Tote Bag
Dagne Dover Small Vida Cotton Tote Bag
Materials: Organic cotton | Colors: 2 options including Natural, Onyx | Size: 14 x 11 x 6 inches | Weight: 2.3 pounds
Pros:
- Easy to clean, hand washable with cold water and soap
- Features multiple compartments, including a dedicated water bottle pocket
Cons:
- Lacks a zipper closure for main compartment
The Dagne Dover Small Vida Cotton Tote Bag earns its top-rated designation as a lightweight yet remarkably spacious carryall, ideal for any trip or daily use. Weighing a mere 2.3 pounds, this compact tote offers ample room while remaining comfortable to carry. It boasts a thoughtfully designed interior with multiple inner and outer pockets, maintaining a clean, minimalist aesthetic. A dedicated slip compartment with a Velcro closure provides secure storage for a 13-inch laptop. The wipeable lining adds practicality, especially when carrying shoes or items prone to spills.
Expert Insight: “Crafted from 100 percent organic cotton canvas, the Vida tote embodies minimalist design, free from excessive branding or embellishments, ensuring its timeless appeal,” remarks Forbes Vetted deputy editor Jane Sung. “Its four exterior pockets and several interior pockets provide exceptional organization for everything from iPads and books to sunglasses and sanitizing wipes, making it a top-rated choice for streamlined travel.”
Top-Rated Foldable Travel Tote
Space-Saving and Spill-Proof: The Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote
Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote
Materials: Nylon with leather trim | Colors: 6 options including Black, Steel | Size: 12.3 x 11.8 x 7.5 inches | Weight: 0.7 pounds
Pros:
- Water-resistant lining protects against spills
- Features a convenient interior compartment
- Folds compactly for easy storage when not in use
- Secure snap and zipper top closure
Cons:
- No dedicated laptop compartment
The Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote is a top-rated foldable travel tote, celebrated for its space-saving design and practicality. Its ingenious foldable construction makes it incredibly convenient to store in your closet or luggage when not in use. Despite its packable nature, it unfolds to reveal a spacious interior with a smaller pocket for essentials like your phone and wallet. The zip-top closure ensures your belongings remain secure during travel, and the water-resistant lining offers peace of mind against spills.
Expert Insight: “Having owned this foldable tote for eight years, it remains my go-to bag for both weekend getaways and longer trips,” shares Forbes Vetted lifestyle editor Katherine Louie. “It comfortably holds several days’ worth of clothing, and I especially appreciate the water-resistant lining, which has proven easy to wipe clean after the occasional spill. Its durability and top-rated foldable design make it an indispensable travel companion.”
Top-Rated Water-Resistant Travel Tote
Stylish Protection from the Elements: The Bellroy Tokyo Tote
Bellroy Tokyo Tote
Materials: Recycled nylon and polyester, leather | Colors: 5 options including Ranger Green, Melbourne Black | Size: 14.2 x 18.5 x 5.1 inches | Weight: 1.4 pounds
Pros:
- Budget-friendly price point
- Multiple interior pockets for organization
- Water-resistant material protects belongings from rain and spills
Cons:
- No detachable shoulder strap
In our comprehensive review of the Bellroy Tokyo Tote, we lauded it as a top-rated and versatile work bag for women, but its water-resistant properties and practical design also make it an exceptional weekender tote. Constructed from durable, water-resistant fabric with ethically sourced leather accents, the Tokyo Tote provides reliable protection against unexpected rain or spills. This 15-liter zip-top tote features multiple interior pockets for organizing toiletries and a dedicated laptop sleeve accommodating devices up to 13 inches. A zippered front pouch offers convenient access to smaller valuables, further enhancing its top-rated functionality and weather resistance.
Top-Rated Travel Tote for Business Trips
The Ultimate Companion for the Jet-Setting Professional: Lo & Sons The Seville Aire Tote
Lo & Sons The Seville Aire Tote
Materials: Nylon, poly jacquard, leather | Colors: 2 options including Black, Deep Navy | Size: 12.5 x 13 x 5 inches | Weight: 2.6 pounds
Pros:
- Lightweight and water-resistant material ideal for travel
- Available in two sizes (13-inch and 15-inch) for versatile use
- Compact size designed to fit comfortably under airline seats
Cons:
- Extensive compartments might be less flexible for some users
The Lo & Sons The Seville Aire Tote is a top-rated travel tote specifically designed for the demands of business travel. Its integrated outer sleeve effortlessly slides over the handle of any rolling suitcase, streamlining airport navigation. The front pocket is thoughtfully organized with multiple compartments for easy access to essentials like your passport, wallet, and pens. Inside, a dedicated padded sleeve securely protects your laptop during transit, especially when navigating airport security. Available in 13-inch and 15-inch sizes, the Seville Aire Tote offers versatility to suit different packing needs while maintaining a compact profile that fits under any airline seat, solidifying its status as a top-rated choice for business travelers.
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Why Trust Forbes Vetted
How We Chose The Top-Rated Travel Totes
- Our recommendations are based on a combination of expert insights, independent reviews, thorough research, and real-world personal experiences.
- We meticulously analyzed customer reviews and evaluated key features, including materials, dimensions, weight, durability, and interior organization, to determine the overall value and assist readers in selecting the top-rated option that best fits their individual requirements.
- The final selection of products featured in this guide reflects in-depth research conducted by our experienced writer and rigorous vetting by our editorial team, ensuring only top-rated travel totes are recommended.
What To Consider When Buying A Travel Tote
When choosing your ideal travel tote, consider the specific situations in which you will be using it. While individual preferences vary, certain essential elements should always be taken into account:
Materials
The perfect travel tote should strike a balance between strength and weight. It needs to be robust enough to securely carry your laptop and other essentials, yet light enough to comfortably rest on your shoulder throughout your journey. Durable materials such as sturdy leather (or sustainable plant-based alternatives) are generally the best choices. Consider the season and climate when selecting materials for a timeless and functional travel tote.
Straps
Prioritize travel totes with long, thick, and durable straps that sit securely and comfortably on your shoulder, especially when wearing heavier outerwear like coats. Well-constructed straps are crucial for a top-rated travel tote experience.
Size
The optimal size of your travel tote depends on your travel style and trip duration. A compact, lightweight bag is ideal for quick day trips, while longer excursions necessitate a tote with greater storage capacity. If you plan to carry a laptop, ensure the bag is at least an inch wider than your device. For air travel, verify that the tote’s dimensions comply with underseat storage guidelines to ensure it qualifies as a carry-on.
Are Totes Good For Travel?
Tote bags are an excellent and top-rated choice for travel. They typically offer ample space for all your essential items and often include convenient features such as interior compartments, trolley sleeves, and more. Beyond travel, totes can also serve as versatile diaper bags or stylish everyday handbags. Their less overtly “luggage-like” appearance enhances their overall versatility, making them top-rated for both travel and daily life.
Can I Use A Tote Bag As A Carry On?
Yes, travel totes are readily accepted as carry-on items on most flights. For a foldable and highly-recommended option, consider the editor-approved Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote or the classic L.L. Bean Boot And Tote Open Top, both top-rated for their travel-friendly features and carry-on compatibility.
