Ah, the tote bag—the multitasker that can do it all. Finding the best tote bag to transport books and laptops one day and schlep groceries and climbing gear the next can be arduous. To help you sort through the proverbial tote haystack, we tested some of the top tote bags of 2024.

　　Before selecting a tote, you should consider several factors, such as size, composition, durability, and adjustability, to name a few. Think about how you plan to use the tote. Do you plan to use it for your carry-on when traveling? Or for picking up a few items from the farmers market? Maybe you need a tote to transition from the office commute to the beach or a major league game. The versatility of any tote goes up a notch, especially when you dont have to worry about the weather. Will your tote hold up to stains and downpours?

　　Through her time in the field using these tote bags, our lead tester, Taneika Duhaney, answers these questions and more. As a mother to human and dog children, shes no stranger to adventures that require a lot of stuff. And shes very familiar with the search for the perfect bag to carry it all. Taneika took these tote bags to Europe, Africa, and several states along the eastern seaboard for business, outdoor recreation, and sporting events.

　　We tested everything from accessibility, organization, durability, and usability. Scroll through our list to find the perfect tote bag to protect your belongings while looking good, whether on your way to the office, a weekend getaway, or a picnic.

　　To learn more about each totes unique features, check out our buyers guide, comparison chart, and FAQ.

　　The Best Tote Bags of 2024 Best Overall Tote Bag: North Face Base Camp Voyager Tote Best Budget Tote Bag: REI Co-op Packaway 45 Tote Best Tote Bag for Commuting: Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack Best Outdoor Tote Bag: YETI Camino Carryall 35 Tote Best Overall Tote Bag North Face Base Camp Voyager Tote Specs Weight 1 lb., 1.6 oz. Volume 27 L Outside dimensions 15″ x 14.3″ x 5.9″ Materials Recycled polyester, recycled ballistic nylon

　　Pros Padded interior laptop compartment with Velcro strap ensures security Easy access zippered exterior pockets with internal padding to protect valuables Large mesh interior pocket to hold smaller items while still being visible Exterior fabric and zippers are durable and water-resistant Two exterior bottle holders with elasticized borders to secure contents Cons Zippers not water-resistant Limited color scape Taneika Duhaney If youre looking for a tote bag that can do a little bit of everything, consider the Base Camp Voyager Tote ($89) from The North Face.

　　The simple yet effective construction of recycled polyester and ballistic nylon makes this tote bag a great choice for working professionals, students, and weekend travelers.

　　The generous main compartment houses a padded laptop enclosure outfitted with a Velcro strap to securely keep a laptop, book, or other valuables in place.

　　After several months of testing, we found that this tote bag was best suited for carrying school or office supplies such as texts, smaller binders, and laptop computers that measure 16 inches or smaller. Though a larger laptop may fit in the compartment, the non-elasticized nylon strap may not extend to secure the computer in place.

　　Though versatile, this everyday workhorse is only available in a handful of colors. Despite the color limitations, every bag has two external zippered pockets with a padded interior to prevent scratching of cell phone screens or other valuables. The large zippered internal mesh pocket lets you see your supplies. Two waterproof side pockets with a horizontal mesh strip were ideal for water bottles and a compact umbrella.

　　When traveling, the tote bags luggage sleeve attaches seamlessly to every suitcase handle. The tote bag easily fits in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. The main compartment is roomy enough for a handful of groceries on your way home.

　　The Base Camp Voyager Tote is ideal for students, commuters, and in casual business settings. This tote makes organizing and retrieving essentials a breeze.

　　check price at amazoncheck price at the north face Best Budget Tote Bag REI Co-op Pack-Away 45 Tote Specs Weight 1 lb., 12.8 oz. Volume 43.2 L Outside dimensions 15.75 x 12 x 7.5 Materials 300-denier recycled polyester, 1,680-denier recycled nylon

　　Pros Budget-friendly Large main compartment makes it easy to load Hand, over-the-shoulder, and end grab loops make it easy to carry Top compression strap secures bulky or heavy items Two side pockets fit a standard water bottle Moisture and stain-repellent exterior Cons Lacks interior pockets for organization Thin, sparsely padded bottom Taneika Duhaney The REI Co-op Pack-Away 45 Tote ($80) is a game changer. Whether youre packing for a cross-country trek, weekend getaway, or camping trip, it has enough room for everything, plus the kitchen sink.

　　The main compartment, which stays open easily, is void of pockets. As such, the 45-liter rating reads like a conservative estimate. The material at the top of the bag, including the drawstring closure, also allows for a few extra liters of storage. This extension allowed us to fit four beach towels, a change of clothes for two adults and one teen, bathing suits, full-size body wash, lotions, and other essentials.

　　When the bag was not used for transporting essentials, it was the perfect storage for a compact sleeping bag, hammock, camping cookware, and two-person tent. Storing all our camping supplies in the bag made going camping relatively painless, as almost everything we needed was already in one place.

　　Though the bag is equipped with shoulder straps, we opted to use the end grab loops because of its weight and size. The side straps allow for a two-person carry without placing undue stress on any portion of the bag. After each camping trip, we cleaned and repacked our gear in the Pack-Away tote. Once the compression strap is reattached, everything is neatly secured. Plus, it keeps all gear ready for the next camping trip.

　　The durable water repellent makes cleaning the inside and outside of the tote a breeze. The tote has been used to carry wet gear after muddy weekend adventures. Once it was washed and dried, no smell remained.

　　Despite the size, the bag is designed to fit in the footwell of most vehicles. Even after packing the bag to its maximum capacity, we could fit it in the footwell of a minivan and sedan. When not in use, this versatile tote folds flat for storage.

　　The REI Co-op Pack-Away 45 Tote is best for storing and carrying gear and clothes. It also works well as a catch-all bag that neatly stores things away when needed.

　　$40 at REI Best Tote Bag for Commuting Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack Specs Weight 13 oz. Volume 27 L Outside dimensions 15.5″ x 10.25″ x 8″ Materials 70-denier recycled ripstop nylon

　　Pros Packs into its own pocket Padded backpack straps Double stretch-mesh water-bottle Internal zip pocket with a key lanyard Zipper and cinch main compartment closure Roomy main compartment Cons Unpadded hand straps Water bottle holder lacks a securing mechanism No structure Taneika Duhaney Have you ever considered a tote bag that fits in the palm of your hand? We know what youre probably thinking but stay with us because the Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack ($99) is a sight to behold. 

　　When we first opened the package, we were skeptical that we received the correct product and couldnt imagine why this tote was included in this category. After we unfolded it from its own pocket, we quickly understood.   

　　First — the size. As the name states, the Ultralight Black Hole Tote weighs virtually nothing and easily fits into the palm of your hand when folded. Hidden in plain sight is the litany of features you cant see: hand and backpack straps, dual mesh one-liter water bottle holders, and an easily accessible but protected key lanyard, to name a few. 

　　Second — the weight. Tipping the scales at only 13 ounces, courtesy of the 70-denier recycled ripstop nylon, this bag performs as the main star or a complementary piece, depending on your needs. 

　　We repeatedly reached for it to carry items we planned to pick up while out multi-tasking. This tote performed superbly like the unexpected superhero that debuts only when needed. Whether we were picking up a few items at the farmers market or packing post-workout clothing, this small but mighty tote crushed it. 

　　The tote may appear misshapen since it has no structure, resulting in an unevenly distributed load. The padded straps were comfortable when carrying lighter loads over longer distances; however, the straps, which sometimes get caught in the main compartment zipper, can feel slippery and require frequent adjustments.

　　Optimizing weight with the 70-denier fabric results in minimal padding, making this tote feel like our least durable option. Though the large compartment allows for easy packing and travel, this may not hold up to the rigors of frequent travel, especially if filled to capacity on a daily basis. When caught in light rain, the bag held up exceptionally well. 

　　The Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack, available in a range of eye-catching colors, is great for quick hikes and commuters who need to transport the essentials — a 13-inch or smaller laptop, water bottle, keys, glasses, and maybe a small charging cord.

　　$99 at REICheck price at Patagonia Best Outdoor Tote Bag YETI Camino Carryall 35 Tote Specs Weight 3 lbs., 8 oz. Volume 35 L Outside dimensions 18.1″ x 14.9″ x 9.9″ Materials Nylon

　　Pros Watertight Rigid sides keep it upright Thick, molded bottom stands up to abrasion Extra durable handles, can hold up to 50 lbs. Secret rambler sleeves house half-gallon jug Cons Heavy Pricey No zipper or magnet closure Taneika Duhaney If youre looking for an ultra-sturdy, waterproof, puncture- and abrasion-resistant tote bag to haul all your gear and supplies for your next adventure, the YETI Camino Carryall 35 Tote ($150) should be at the top of your list.

　　Constructed from YETIs proprietary Thickskin and molded EVA materials, the Camino Carryall tote is built for anything — literally anything. Weighing only 3 pounds, this heavy-duty tote can carry up to 1,500 pounds of static weight.

　　Though we couldnt verify the weight limit during testing, we tested the tote while carrying logs, firewood, camping gear, propane tanks, and wet gear after a day on the lake. Nothing left a mark on the bag despite putting it through the wringer. No matter the task, the bag looked as good as new after a quick rinse and towel dry. 

　　Though rigid, the tote is exceptionally flexible, making it easy to fit into closets, lockers, and behind car seats. The open-top style makes it easy to pack and access the main compartment.

　　The interior zip pockets, perfectly sized for cell phones, wallets, keys, and snacks, are complemented by rugged, easy-to-hold tabs. Despite the bag being waterproof, the zipper is not, so remember to remove any moisture-sensitive items before submerging or rinsing the bag.

　　Whether packing for a picnic or tailgating, the secret rambler sleeves with integrated tabs, perfect for half-gallon-size jugs or bottles of wine, relax against the sides of the tote when not in use. Reinforced, vertical daisy chains allow for four connections on each sleeve.

　　The tote does not have a zipper for the main compartment, but it does have a small but rugged hook and closure tab to keep year gear inside. When its time to take your tote and go, reach for the exceptionally sturdy yet slightly cushioned shoulder straps or the reinforced grab handles if toting a bit more weight.

　　Though higher priced than all other totes in this category, the YETI Camino Carryall 35 Tote’s versatility and durability make it a worthy investment. Its the perfect tote for your next beach trip, playdate, or camping excursion.

　　$150 at REICheck price at YETI Best of the Rest Cotopaxi Viaje 35L Weekender Tote Bag Specs Weight 1 lb., 12.8 oz. Volume 35 L Outside dimensions 21″ x 15″ x 12″ Materials Recycled polyester

　　Pros Separate laundry compartment on the bottom Exterior straps for a yoga mat or longboard Zippered exterior accessory pockets Long and short carrying handles Luggage sleeve Spacious main compartment Cons Formless No padding Taneika Duhaney One of Ecuadors most active volcanoes inspired the llama logoed Cotopaxi. At first glance, a llama may seem like a quiet, awkward animal; however, like still waters that run deep, the adventurous, versatile, and uniquely inspiring mascot adorns the ready-to-go Cotopaxi Viaje 35L Weekender Tote Bag ($130). The Viaje is quite literally prepared to take you on almost any journey every day — and anywhere that you might need a tote bag. 

　　The first thing we noticed about this tote was the clean lines, eye-catching but muted colorscape, and no shortage of organization. We tested this tote on local grocery runs and international travel. It shined no matter where it was toted. 

　　This tote weighs only 1 pound, 12.8 ounces and boasts several features normally found in larger travel totes, such as multiple external zippered pockets, yoga mat straps, side carry handles, a shoulder strap, and a large bottom storage. 

　　At 37 liters, the weekenders large main compartment is spacious enough for a weekend or week-long trip. We packed the tote for a four-day international trip. The large base meant larger items could be folded neatly with packing cubes placed on top with no fuss. When it was time to close the bag, compartment handles made closing the bag a cinch. Large zippered external pockets are ideal for keeping essentials like passports, keys, wallets, and snacks within reach without opening the main compartment. 

　　The integrated luggage sleeve provided a secure fit on different roller luggage without resistance. Removing the tote from carrying handles to go through security was also a breeze. The bag fits neatly in the overhead compartments of several airlines without hassle. When overhead compartments were full, the tote easily fit under airline seats. 

　　When we werent traveling, the tote doubled as a day bag for trips to the beach and bazaar. The adjustable side straps neatly supported a small rug, allowing us to remain hands-free. For the return trip, a separate storage compartment on the bottom was ideal for extra shoes or dirty clothes. 

　　Take the Cotopaxi Viaje 35L Weekender Tote Bag tote on your next weekend getaway or grocery run. It can do it all.

　　$130 at REI$130 at Amazon Bagail Clear Bags Tote Specs Weight 8 oz. Volume 13.5 L Outside dimensions 12″ x 12″ x 6″ Materials Vinyl, nylon

　　Pros Lightweight Double zippered Adjustable shoulder strap Stadium-friendly Cons Zipper is not water-resistant Strap is bare-bones without padding Taneika Duhaney While most of the totes on this list can serve double duty, Bagail Clear Bags Tote ($9) elevates the stadium tote. Though simple, this tote is exactly what it says it is — a clear tote that most stadiums require for access.

　　This tote is large enough for your phone, wallet, snacks, water bottle, book, and scarf. We found it to be big enough to carry everything you need without feeling oversized or cumbersome.

　　This no-frills tote is low on features; however, it fits the maximum dimensions allowed at most stadiums, concerts, and music festivals. Larger and clearer than most see-through bags, getting through security will be the easiest part of your adventure. You can carry the tote using the shoulder straps or the adjustable crossbody nylon strap. With two D-rings on the main bag, you can remove the crossbody strap for a cleaner appearance.

　　Unlike most bags in this category, which offer a range of organizing features, Bagails tote prevents you from digging a black hole. With dual zippers, you can open the bag using either zipper tab. 

　　The cons of this tote lie in its overall appearance. It appears cheaper and feels flimsy. Though the zipper worked smoothly, the single stitch connecting the zipper made us question its durability with repeated openings. The zippers are not water resistant, and the rubber zipper tabs were a bit of a drawback. 

　　You may not be a fan of vinyl bags; however, if you need a clear bag for a stadium event at a wallet-friendly price point, the Bagail Clear Bags Tote is an option.

　　$9 at Amazon Tote Bag Comparison Chart

　　We put in the testing time so you dont have to; (photo/Ryan Kempfer, Elk Raven Photography) How We Tested Tote Bags Are you tired of purchasing tote bags that dont stand up to daily wear and tear? Look no further! We tested six different totes as carry-on and checked luggage while traveling cross-country and internationally. We also used them for grocery hauls, commuting, and outdoor adventures.

　　Our rigorous testing focused on the durability and precision of the stitching and seams, the functionality of closures, comfort and adjustability of handles, and suitability for different occasions and purposes. We stretched every pocket, zipped every zipper, packed every compartment, pulled every cord, and snapped every closure. We scuffed the fabrics, stained the handles, and knotted the drawstrings. In short, we put these totes through the wringer.

　　Over several months, we carefully recorded our observations and the strengths and weaknesses of each tote. We tested in various weather conditions, including rainy weather, cold bike trips, and dry and hot desert excursions. We took extensive notes of our observations, graphed performance, and compared results in every instance.

　　Our lead tester Taneika Duhaney, has over 12 years of experience as a bike commuter, traveler, and gear reviewer. Her expertise will help you make the most informed decision before purchasing your next tote bag. Dont waste any more time and money on inferior totes. Check out our comprehensive review and invest wisely in a tote bag that will endure all of lifes adventures.

　　The North Face Base Camp Voyager stood out as the best overall tote bag; (photo/Ryan Kempfer, Elk Raven Photography) Buyers Guide: How to Choose the Best Tote Bags A tote bag isnt just a bag. Like your favorite shoe or sweater, the perfect tote can make almost anything right. Sounds far-fetched? Well, not really. Think of the last time you rummaged through your bag, searching for your phone, keys, or wallet. At that very moment, you knew you needed a new bag. Fear not; this guide can help you narrow down your choices so you can find the tote that keeps everything exactly where you need it, stays out of the way when you dont, and reflects your current style.

　　Figuring out which kind of tote is perfect for you can be challenging because we do so many things and need our staple items to keep up. An excellent place to start is by asking yourself how youll use the tote. Do you need the tote to carry your laptop to the office one day and then pack gear to build sand castles at the beach the next?

　　Next, consider how it could enhance your daily routine. Do you need a spacious tote that can double as storage? Or, would you prefer a more organized approach with a laptop sleeve, key lanyard, and multiple pockets for your wallet, glasses, and phone? The choice is yours, and with the right tote, you can be confident in its practicality and style.

　　Now, its time to pick a size. Do you need a large bag to haul groceries, a medium tote for a few essentials, or something smaller that may be a single-purpose tote?

　　Then, it’s time to consider style. Are you drawn to the sleek structure of a tote, or does the freedom of an unstructured bag, better suit your style? What about color? Remember, the right tote is not just a bag but an extension of your style. If youre looking for something bigger, to get you through longer adventures, check out our guide to the Best Duffel Bags.

　　Totes like the Cotopaxi Viaje 35L Weekender Bag make the perfect travel companion; (photo/Ryan Kempfer, Elk Raven Photography) How Will You Use It? Why settle for just any bag when you could have the perfect tote? We understand how frustrating it can be to find the right fit, so weve taken the guesswork out of it for you. Our totes are grouped by use, size, and color, so you can easily find the one that best suits your needs. Dont settle for less than perfect when carrying your belongings — read on to learn more about what to consider when searching for your ideal tote bag.

　　Travel Tote A travel tote is the epitome of convenience for your weekend trips. These spacious tote bags accommodate all your essentials for a weekend trip or short getaway. Crafted from high-quality materials like nylon, polyester, or other durable fabrics, they are built to endure travel demands.

　　Travel totes, such as the Cotopaxis Viaje 35L, boast a design thats as practical as it is efficient. This tote is a perfect travel companion with a large main compartment, multiple pockets for easy organization, and a zippered bottom compartment for storing shoes, dirty laundry, or extra clothes.

　　For those who require more space, the Pack-Away 45 from REI Co-op is a perfect choice. Its robust polyester and nylon construction ensures that you can pack the tote to the brim or use packing cubes to organize your gear to your liking, all while being confident in its durability.

　　When your tote is full, the extended collar, which offers easier access than a zipper, secures your belongings with a drawstring closure and compression strap. Similar to the Cotopaxi Viaje, the REI Pack-Away provides a plethora of carrying options. You can choose between shoulder straps, a crossbody strap, or reinforced handles, allowing you to carry your tote in a way that perfectly suits your style and comfort.

　　The Viaje is the perfect carry-on. However, the Pack-Away may be too large to fit under the seat. Check with your airline to confirm the approved carry-on size. And, if you need something even more expansive, check out these other options in our Best Carry-on Luggage Guide.

　　We were able to pack a ton into the REI Pack-Away 45 but it can fit so much that it may not fit under your seat if youre carrying it on a plane; (photo/Ryan Kempfer, Elk Raven Photography) Commuter Tote Commuter tote bags are crafted with the daily grind in mind. Theyre often constructed from waterproof or water-resistant materials such as nylon or polyester. This feature ensures that your belongings stay dry and protected, even if you encounter unexpected rain showers during your journey.

　　One key benefit of commuter tote bags is their practicality. Many of these bags, such as The North Face Base Camp Voyager, are outfitted with specialized compartments and pockets, ensuring your essentials are neatly arranged and easily accessible. A notable feature is a padded laptop sleeve that secures your laptop or tablet while on the move — a significant advantage for students and professionals. Moreover, multiple pockets and compartments aid in keeping smaller items organized and within easy reach.

　　In addition to their functionality, commuter tote bags often prioritize comfort and convenience.

　　Like Patagonia’s Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack, many commuter totes are designed for comfort and convenience. They feature padded handles, backpack straps, or crossbody straps like the North Face Base Camp Voyager. This allows you to effortlessly carry your belongings, even during long commutes or busy days.

　　The compact size and streamlined silhouette of most commuter totes make them ideal for navigating crowded buses, trains, or city streets without feeling bulky or cumbersome.

　　The stylish yet practical Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack; (photo/Ryan Kempfer, Elk Raven Photography) Beach Tote

　　Beach tote bags are essential companions for a fun day in the sun. Unlike their everyday counterparts, these bags meet the unique needs of beachgoers. They offer ample space and durable construction to accommodate everything you need for a relaxing day by the water.

　　Beach totes are typically larger than standard tote bags, providing plenty of room to pack towels, sunscreen, snacks, drinks, reading materials, and other essentials. This spacious design ensures that you can comfortably carry everything you need for a day of leisure without feeling weighed down or cramped for space.

　　One of the defining characteristics of beach tote bags is their generous size, like YETIs Camino Carryall. The 35-liter tote is water-resistant to protect your belongings from moisture and prevent the bag from becoming soggy or waterlogged. The durable nylon construction makes it simple to shake off sand or rinse any spills or stains.

　　Another hallmark of beach tote bags is vibrant colors and fun patterns. The Camino Carryall is available in Navy, King Crab Orange, Agave Teal, and other fun colors. Whether you prefer bright and cheerful hues or more subdued tones, theres a beach tote bag to suit every taste and preference.

　　Many beach tote bags come with practical features that enhance functionality. The Camino Carryall has two internal pockets to store smaller items like sunscreen, sunglasses, keys, or smartphones. Additional pockets like the YETIs rambler sleeves let you keep your essentials organized while you soak up the sun.

　　The YETI Camino Carryall 35L is awesome for all outdoor adventures, including trips to the beach, lake, or woods; (photo/Ryan Kempfer, Elk Raven Photography) Fashion Tote In the world of tote bags, a fashion tote often deviates from the utilitarian focus of traditional tote bags. They tend to emphasize aesthetics and usually serve as trendy accessories.

　　One example of a fashion tote bag is the Bagail Clear Bags Tote. Unlike traditional tote bags, which usually feature solid colors and classic designs, the Bagail Tote stands out because of its transparent construction. This allows for a modern, minimalist look thats both chic and practical.

　　The Bagail Clear Bags Tote is an ideal accessory for attending sporting events, concerts, or other large-scale gatherings where traditional bags may not be authorized because of security regulations. In these situations, the totes transparent design allows for easy inspection of its contents while providing a stylish and functional way to carry essential items.

　　Closure Configuration When it comes to tote bags, the variety is as diverse as the mechanisms used to secure their contents. Totes designed for utility and functionality often sport a range of zippers, while more laid-back tote bags might feature a drawstring or buckle closure.

　　When choosing your perfect tote bag, its crucial to consider the level of security your belongings require. While closure mechanisms can be enhanced, its important to note that retrofitting a zipper onto an open-top tote might be challenging, if not impossible.

　　Zipper Closures Tote bags designed for carrying heavy items or valuable belongings are usually equipped with sturdy, practically indestructible zippers. This ensures that your belongings are always secured, no matter how frequently you use the zipper.

　　Many of the totes we tested feature zipper closures for added security. For instance, The North Face Base Camp Voyager and Patagonia’s Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack, both commuter-focused totes, have zippers to secure your work or school essentials.

　　Similarly, the Cotopaxi Viaje 35L Weekender Bag comes with several zippers designed to keep your belongings secure while traveling. Lastly, the Bagail: Clear Stadium Tote features a single zipper that ensures your essentials are secure, whether in a group of 10 or 10,000.

　　Drawstring Closure Many casual tote bags have drawstring closures, which allow users to cinch the opening shut with minimal effort. This closure type complements the bags relaxed vibe and provides easy access to belongings without sacrificing style.

　　Patagonia’s Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack and REI Co-ops Pack-Away 45 are tote bags with different drawstring closures.

　　Lets discuss their versatility. The Ultralight Black Hole has a main compartment with a zipper and drawstring closure. This allows you to carry items that extend outside the totes main compartment, meaning you can pack more without compromising on space.

　　On the other hand, the REI Pack-Away 45 has an extended collar that has a drawstring closure, which is further secured by a buckle strap. This design ensures your contents stay put, no matter how much you carry.

　　The REI Co-op Pack-Away 45 has a sweet drawstring closure that helps make this bag feel even bigger than it is and it keeps contents secure; (photo/Ryan Kempfer, Elk Raven Photography) Hook Closure Tote bags designed for outdoor use or on-the-go activities often use hook-and-loop closures. These closures provide a combination of style, functionality, and security, allowing for quick and easy access to the contents of the bag. Hook-and-loop closures are highly versatile and can range from simple designs to more intricate hardware, making them an excellent choice for customization based on the bags aesthetic.

　　The YETI Camino Carryall 35L has simple hook-and-loop closures that keep contents secure when carrying smaller loads. On the other hand, the REI Co-op Pack-Away 45 has a hook-and-loop closure with a compression strap that fully extends across the main compartment to secure contents even when fully packed.

　　Size Tote bags come in all sizes. The right size tote will depend on where and how you plan to use it.

　　A large tote with easy access to the main compartment and limited closure may be the perfect option for a beach trip. At the same time, commuters and students may need more prescribed totes that arent too large and have organization compartments and options to keep belongings secure.

　　Tote size may vary depending on how the bag is carried. Bags with crossbody straps allow users to shift the bag from their shoulders, which may minimize the size of the bag. For totes with backpack straps, much of the bags size is on your back and out of the way. 

　　Though the Bagail Clear Bags Tote is the smallest in capacity, it actually fits quite a bit and looks great while doing so; (photo/Ryan Kempfer, Elk Raven Photography) Durability A tote should be durable enough to protect your essentials. Nylon, polyester, and coated fabrics usually feel substantial without being weighty. These fabrics are often treated to be waterproof, water-resistant, or stain-resistant, enhancing their durability against the elements.

　　Some totes feature reinforced handles or stitching, especially at critical junctures, like where the handle meets the main compartment, the bottom of the bag, or along seams. Inner linings and padded areas dial up the protection inside and outside the tote.

　　Weight The weight of a tote bag is an essential factor whether you intend to use the bag for commuting, travel, or shopping. The bags composition usually influences the weight and can indicate durability — but not always.

　　Many lighter bags are made of nylon or polyester. Though durable, bags made of heavier materials may hold up longer over time.

　　The lightest tote in our top picks, the Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole, weighs less than 1 pound. YETIs Camino Carryall, on the other hand, weighs over 3 pounds.

　　Its important to consider a totes weight, especially if you plan to carry any load over a considerable distance or for an extended period of time. Additionally, dont discount a tote simply because of its weight since some of these bags can carry anything from logs to blankets.

　　For our lightest bag, the Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole packs quite a punch; (photo/Ryan Kempfer, Elk Raven Photography) Features Ideally, a tote should have features that enhance its intended use, like commuter totes with laptop sleeves, weekender totes with a dirty laundry compartment, and adventure totes with burly, reinforced handles or large, unobstructed main compartments. The features make a tote bag more functional, practical, and versatile.

　　Other features to consider include the ease of cleaning and whether a tote is aesthetically appealing -— minimalist, trendy, or classic.

　　Waterproofness A waterproof tote can be ideal, especially in wetter conditions, so you dont run the risk of ruining your essentials while commuting or traveling. Some totes have waterproof interiors and exteriors, and some manufacturers use proprietary waterproofing materials.

　　Nylon, polyester, and vinyl are often used to make waterproof bags. Even if the fabric is waterproof, water can still enter the bag if the seams are untreated. Carefully inspect seams to get an idea of how waterproof a bag may be.

　　Some manufacturers provide waterproof ratings for some tote bags. This rating usually ranges from 0 to 10,000 mm or higher. The higher the number, the more waterproof the material is considered to be. A rating of 0 mm means the material is not waterproof, while a rating of 10,000 mm means the material can withstand a 10,000 mm column of water before it begins to leak.

　　Remember, no tote bag is completely waterproof, but some are more water-resistant than others.

　　FAQ What factors should you consider when choosing a tote bag? A good tote bag is a bag that perfectly suits your needs and wants. Before selecting a tote, you should consider several factors: size, durability, organization, versatility, and comfort.

　　A tote should be spacious enough to carry whatever you need without being bulky or cumbersome. The size of a tote will determine its usage, versatility, and organization capacity. Larger totes may carry clothes on one day and groceries on the next. Just because a tote bag is spacious doesnt mean its functional, especially if it lacks organization. Some totes have water bottle holders, inner and outer pockets, and laptop sleeves to protect your essentials.

　　You should also consider what type of material the tote is made from and whether the construction aligns with your needs. Many popular totes are made from nylon, canvas, or leather. If sustainability is important, consider tote bags made from eco-friendly materials like vegan leather.

　　Finally, the more comfortable the tote, the more likely you will use it. Consider whether you need padded or reinforced straps to distribute the totes weight evenly, especially if you plan to carry it for extended periods.

　　How do I clean a tote bag? Every tote will encounter dirt, stains, dust, or smells at some point. Occasional cleaning is required to keep bags looking their best. When its time to clean your tote, consider the bags material, construction, and features.

　　Bags constructed from waterproof or water-resistant materials like nylon can be spot-cleaned by hand with water and mild detergent. Sticky or very dirty areas may require lukewarm water, mild detergent, and a soft-bristle toothbrush. If your tote gets stained with grease, many manufacturers recommend using a bit of Dawn dish detergent to lift stains gently.

　　Care should be exercised when cleaning button panels, straps, and porous materials like leather to prevent discoloration.

　　Depending on the material, some totes can be washed by hand with cold water and mild detergent. Rub the tote lightly with your hands or a soft brush. Air dry or wipe dry, depending on the material.

　　Whats a reasonable price for a tote bag? How you plan to use a tote bag should be your primary consideration when deciding what you are willing to invest. Since many tote bags pull double duty, you should then consider the bags construction and durability of materials and accessories.

　　Some economical totes range from $20 to $100, while higher-end totes, made of premium materials, can average $150 to $300. Some fashion-forward totes can exceed $500.

　　A well-priced tote fits your everyday needs at a price point you deem valuable.

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