AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.
Tote bags are the workhorses of the carry-all genre, and without one your accessories wardrobe may be incomplete. These hardworking bags come in myriad sizes, materials, and colors and are designed for stylish schlepping from the boardroom to the beach, no matter where life takes you.
“Tote bags are all over the place these days,” says Patrick Burch, owner of Cave + Post Trading Co. in Phoenix, Arizona, adding that he loves tote bags for their versatility. “With their long handles and large open pocket shape, they’re great for traveling. Just fill it with magazines, books, a neck pillow, headphones, or a laptop and go. They’re also great for getting groceries and have become the ‘green’ eco-friendly shopping bag. The shape has become so popular, however, that many people carry a designer version daily as their ‘briefcase’ or as a fashion statement.”
Totes are designed to be spacious, easy to carry, and allow you to toss all your things into one bag, but with so many options on the market, it can be a challenge to find the right fit. So, I spoke to designers, stylists, personal shoppers, retail owners and others to understand what to consider when looking for the best tote bag, as well as getting their product recommendations. With so many tote bags out there, these professionals helped me narrow down a list of the best ones depending on budget, style and functionality.
What to consider when buying the best tote bags
"The most important thing to consider first is your tote bag’s intended use — decide what you’ll be using it for, whether it’s everyday shopping, gym, work or vacation,” says celebrity style expert and fashion maven Melissa Rivers. “Then consider things like material, size, style, durability, compartments, etc. You’ll want to make sure the bag meets your needs!"
Before you buy, our experts advise asking the following questions:
How do I plan to use my tote?
“The most important factor to consider when purchasing a tote is what you’ll be carrying and how you’ll be lugging it around (walking short distances, long distances, mostly driving, flying, etc.),” shares Shana Draugelis, stylist and CEO and founder of The Mom Edit.
Ask yourself, does it need to pull double duty for work during the week and the farmers markets over the weekend? Do you plan to travel with your tote? In that case, you might want one that zips up versus an open bag. Draugelis suggests owning multiple totes for various activities, from grocery shopping to travel. “I typically travel with at least one lightweight, zippered tote that can be packed flat into a suitcase,” she says. “In the event that I do a little extra shopping on vacation, I can then use this tote as an additional carry-on.”
What’s it made out of?
Material is so important when considering what tote to purchase, because the wrong kind of material may fall apart after a few months or years. A highly durable tote bag may be worth the higher price tag, especially when it comes to environmentally friendly materials. Totes also come in many, many materials: cotton, ripstop, nylon, canvas and other fabrics.
No matter what your tote is made of, the most important element is that you’re buying something you love and will use often, says stylist and fashion designer Sandy Poole, whose designs have been sold at Bergdorf, Bloomingdales, Anthropologie and other retailers.
Is it eco-friendly?
“It’s important to consider the impact that these products have on the environment,” shares Poole. “My advice is to seek out responsibly certified leather, second-hand or natural leather alternatives like Piñatex or Vegea. If you do purchase a leather handbag, be sure it’s something you’ll wear for a long time and learn the proper steps to take care of it. PU, faux leather and recycled poly are actually very damaging to the environment as they are still oil-based products.”
What size do I need?
Totes come in all different sizes, from small to extra large, and it may be handy to own a few totes — one for business, another for groceries and one for travel. Personally, my family even uses L.L. Bean’s sturdy X-large canvas totes to store soft toys, unused blankets and other household items that don’t come out daily. Small totes that fold up make great grocery bags, medium-sized totes (that zip) make great carry-ons and oversized totes are a necessity if you are making a large grocery shopping run.
What’s my budget?
The great thing about tote bags is the price ranges from thousands of dollars to less than $10. While cotton, canvas, nylon, or ripstop type fabrics may be lower quality and may not last forever, they’re inexpensive, can be good-looking and are easily replaced, says Burch. Also, you never know when a tote might turn into a trend: In February 2024, Trader Joe’s mini totes for $2.99 made national headlines when their popularity caused a rush on them. These cute bags sold out everywhere and showed up online for up to $1,000.
Our top picks for the best tote bags
Best Affordable Tote Bag: Standard Reusable Baggu
Standard Reusable Baggu
Endorsed by the stylists we interviewed, I (and many of my friends) usually have one of these on their person when shopping. These are durable, super lightweight and can fold into a tiny pocket and be stored in their pouch. Made of washable nylon that dries fast, they are not only an accessory but a necessity, as they can hold up to 50 lbs. of stuff. Plus, these Baggu bags come in an astonishing variety of colors and patterns. They also make great gifts for birthdays and holidays.
Specifications:
- Size: Small and standard.
- Strap length: N/A.
- Material: Recycled ripstop nylon.
- Width: 15.5 inches.
- Colors: Large variety of colors and patterns.
- Closure type: Open.
- Capacity: Holds up to 50 lbs.
- Price on publish: $14.
What we like:
- Affordable.
- Folds flat into its own 5-inch by 5-inch pouch.
- Cute designs and colors.
- Durable.
- Light enough that it’s also our pick for the best lightweight tote bag.
What we don’t like:
- Nothing — nearly everyone loves these tiny, expandable totes.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
These durable, expandable, lightweight nylon bags fold flat into a tiny pouch, so you can always keep one in your purse or on your person.
Get it here: Standard Reusable Baggu
Best Laptop Tote Bag: Quince’s Italian Leather Triple-Compartment Shopping Tote
Quince’s Italian Leather Triple-Compartment Shopping Tote
Not only do I own this tote, but it was also recommended by others, including Draugelis. Under $200 and with over 300 five-star reviews, it’s a well-structured Italian leather tote with an interior center pocket divider (and zipper closure) plus three interior slip pockets. This means you can keep your laptop (it fits a standard 13-inch) and other items secure and organized. It can be used for dry-goods shopping, but is probably best for business and travel. It makes a great work bag for women or men.
Specifications:
- Sizes: One.
- Strap length: Shoulder straps with a 10-inch drop.
- Material: Italian leather.
- Width: 14.5 inches.
- Colors: Six.
- Closure type: Zip.
- Capacity: Holds a 13-inch laptop with room for other items.
- Price on publish: $149.90.
What we like:
- Produced in Sedex-certified factories, which aims to improve working conditions throughout the supply chain.
- Protective metal feet.
- Zippered closure.
What we don’t like:
- Probably shouldn’t be used to haul groceries or unwrapped food items.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This affordable Italian leather tote has an enclosed zipper and is roomy enough for a 13-inch laptop and other items, like a purse, notebooks and a sweater.
Get it here: Quince’s Italian Leather Triple-Compartment Shopping Tote
Best Tote Bag For Men: 66° North Multi bag
66° North Multi bag
From Wild Iceland, 66° North brings the multitask bag, which has straps like a traditional larger tote but can also be worn as a backpack. “We love the construction and sleek look, but the main reason we brought it in [for our store] is that it looks business-like without being too stuffy,” shares Nate Axvig, a world travel expert, stylist and owner of Aktiv, an athleisure boutique in Colorado, who recommended this bag as his pick for “best tote bag for travel” as well.
Specifications:
- Sizes: One size.
- Strap length: N/A.
- Material: 55% Polyamide, 45% Polyurethane.
- Width: Not listed.
- Colors: Black, Golden Brown and Smoke Grey.
- Closure type: Zip enclosure.
- Capacity: 24L.
- Price on publish: $165.
What we like:
- Can be used for travel or work.
- Can be worn as a backpack or used as a tote.
- Side zip pocket.
What we don’t like:
- Expensive.
The AP Buyline Takeaway:
This stylish bag can be worn by any gender and used as a backpack or tote bag, depending on your needs.
Get it here: 66° North Multi bag
Best Travel Tote Bag: Longchamp Le Pliage Tote
Longchamp Le Pliage Tote
“I first tried it based on the many, many, many rave reviews from our readers, and they were 100% right,” shares Draugelis. “This tote is lightweight, strong, zippered and amazing for travel. In addition to its usefulness, there’s also some understated French-girl vibes that totally do it for me.” It also has over 1,000 five-star reviews on Nordstrom by users who swear by its versatility, comfort and style.
Specifications:
- Size: Large.
- Strap length: 9.75-inch strap drop.
- Material: Nylon and leather trim.
- Width: 12.25 inches.
- Colors: Eight, including orange and red.
- Closure type: Top zip with snap tab.
- Capacity: Roomy (fits 13-inch laptop, shoes, smartphone, smaller bags, etc.).
- Price on publish: $155.
What we like:
- Water-resistant finish.
- Safe to carry (zip and snap).
- Roomy interior.
- Folds flat.
- Interior smartphone pocket.
What we don’t like:
- A minority of users reported it was not as durable as they hoped.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This lightweight tote bag with a zippered enclosure is easy to carry, roomy and secure.
Get it here: Longchamp Le Pliage Tote
Best Designer Tote Bag: The RRL Canvas Carpenter Tote
The RRL Canvas Carpenter Tote
Burch says this bag has an old-school, vintage vibe, but is "designer" enough for those who know the RRL brand, a high-end western-inspired workwear line from Ralph Lauren. “This is about as cool as anything out there. The fabric has a vintage, worn-in feel and the leather details along with the oxidized/patinated copper rivets make this a ‘designer piece’ that will be noticed,” he says.
Specifications:
- Sizes: One.
- Strap length: Two top handles, each with a 4.5-inch drop; adjustable buckled leather shoulder strap.
- Material: Cotton, leather and copper trim.
- Width: 14 inches.
- Colors: Cream.
- Closure type: Concealed snap.
- Capacity: Not listed (roomy).
- Price on publish: $345.
What we like:
- Vintage feel.
- Can be carried by all genders.
What we don’t like:
- Expensive.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
All genders will likely enjoy this roomy, vintage-cool canvas carpenter bag by designer Ralph Lauren — if they can afford its high price.
Get it here: The RRL Canvas Carpenter Tote
Best Tote Bag For Work: Cuyana The System Tote
Cuyana The System Tote
A few stylists I interviewed strongly recommended the brand Cuyana, thanks to its elegant designs and certification by the Leather Working Group, the world’s leading environmental certification for the leather industry. This affirms that its leather is tanned in an environmentally responsible way. Cuyana offers several tote options, but one beloved example is the System Tote. “Think, a work bag version of The Container Store,” says Draugelis. This bag has components like a zipper pouch insert, laptop sleeve, snaps for you to add a Cuyana Flap bag and more. Durable, customizable and sturdy, this tote is designed for all your multitasking moments.
Specifications:
- Size: 13 or 16 inches.
- Strap length: 9.5 inches.
- Material: Leather.
- Width: 13.25 - 19 inches.
- Colors: Six.
- Closure type: Snaps.
- Capacity: Fits a 16-inch laptop (large size).
- Price on publish: $328 - $348.
What we like:
- All the pockets, pouches and add-on accessories.
- Extremely soft.
What we don’t like:
- You may have to pay for some add-on accessories.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This multitasking, durable leather tote bag comes in large and small sizes, with multiple accessories, zippered inserts, pouches and pockets.
Get it here: Cuyana The System Tote
Best Leather Tote Bag: J.Crew Weekender Montauk Tote (Leather)
J.Crew Weekender Montauk Tote (Leather)
J.Crew is known for its classic designs, and its Weekender tote bag doesn’t disappoint. This two-handle leather carry-all with a zipper top enclosure, inner pocket and detachable cross-body strap is roomy enough to use as an overnight bag. Throw in a change of clothes, personal items and your tablet, and you’re all set for a weekend away. “I love this tote bag for travel,” says Rivers. “It’s simple, functional and will never go out of style. The shoulder strap makes this bag a must.” Plus, J.Crew will monogram it for you, making it a perfect weekender bag for women (or men).
Specifications:
- Size: Large.
- Strap length: 8-inch handle drop.
- Material: Leather.
- Width: 23 inches.
- Colors: One.
- Closure type: Zipper top.
- Capacity: Not listed.
- Price on publish: $239.50.
What we like:
- Adjustable crossbody strap.
- Pretty cognac-colored leather.
What we don’t like:
- Only one color.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This is a classic leather weekend tote bag with a zippered top to keep your belongings secure, as well as a detachable crossbody strap.
Get it here: J.Crew Weekender Montauk Tote (Leather)
Best Small Tote Bag: Clare V. Sandy Tote
Clare V. Sandy Tote
This is Summer in the form of a small tote. The bag packs flat in a suitcase or duffel bag and can be used (almost) anywhere on vacation, from “an impromptu beach bag, evening bag, or market bag — it’s one of my all-time favorites,” says Draugelis. It comes in seven colors (I love the French blue) and is made of braided rope for slightly nautical vibes.
Specifications:
- Size: One size.
- Strap length: 11-inch drop.
- Material: Braided rope and padded leather handles.
- Width: 16 inches.
- Colors: Seven.
- Closure type: Open.
- Capacity: Not listed.
- Price on publish: $145.
What we like:
- Lays flat in a suitcase.
- Comfortable to carry.
What we don’t like:
- No enclosure.
- Rope material means it’s slightly see-through.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
An excellent travel tote made of rope, designed to carry your things to the beach or park.
Get it here: Clare V. Sandy Tote
Best Canvas Tote Bag: Lupa Canvas Tote Bag
Lupa Canvas Tote Bag
Poole recommends this brand, which encourages the use of eco-friendly materials and manufacturers. The Lupa is a large canvas tote made from organic cotton and low-impact dyes, and because of its generous size, it's perfect for a grocery haul or an outdoor excursion to the mountains or beach. It has sturdy handles, a small, hanging drop-in pouch to keep personal items like phones or keys safe and a lead-free closure that snaps shut. Plus, every purchase of a Lupa bag supports Feeding America's campaign to end hunger by helping donate meals to kids and families in need.
Specifications:
- Size: Large.
- Strap length: Not listed.
- Material: Organic cotton.
- Width: 20 inches.
- Colors: Four, including a beautiful deep-sea teal.
- Closure type: Lead-free snap enclosure.
- Capacity: 29 liter carrying capacity.
- Price on publish: $35.
What we like:
- Affordable.
- Folds up easily.
- Has a snap enclosure.
What we don’t like:
- Not water resistant.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This eco-friendly, roomy tote from a fair trade company is inexpensive, durable and comfortable to carry, but not water resistant.
Get it here: Lupa Canvas Tote Bag
Best Grocery Tote Bag: Ban.do Foldable Market Tote
Ban.do Foldable Market Tote
These totes have more than 10,000 5-star reviews, they don’t fall over on your way home from shopping (like some lightweight brands) and are easy to carry if you’re on foot. Despite being lightweight when empty, these bags are deceptively strong, so you don’t have to worry about your bag breaking on the way home. Plus, you can use them for other things like beach trips, parks, or any time you need to haul items around. When you don’t need it, fold it up into a small pouch.
Specifications:
- Size: Large.
- Strap length: Not listed.
- Material: Cotton/polypropylene.
- Width: 8.5 inches.
- Colors: Various patterns.
- Closure type: Open.
- Capacity: Not listed.
- Price on publish: $15.95.
What we like:
- Affordable.
- Folds up easily.
- Durable.
What we don’t like:
- May not be polished enough to use as a workplace tote.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
An affordable, lightweight, open tote for grocery hauls and farmers markets.
Get it here: Ban.do Foldable Market Tote
Best Large Tote Bag: L.L. Bean Boat and Tote
Boat and Tote, Open-Top Canyon Khaki Long, Canvas/Nylon L.L.Bean
Most of the stylists and experts I spoke to raved about the versatility of this timeless tote from L.L. Bean, which you can purchase in extra-large. Not only is it great for trips anywhere, but it can also work as a hold-all around the house, from blankets to toys and then some. While probably not a bag you want to carry to work (depending on your job), this tote will do everything else. Durable, these totes can last for decades (my father-in-law owned at least three), and you can monogram these classic (and dare I say, preppy) canvas totes, which also boast colorful, wide strapped, reinforced handles. If New England was a tote bag, this would be it. If you prefer a zip-top for closure, they also sell a zip-top Boat and Tote version, and you can choose regular or long handles.
Specifications:
- Size: Small to extra large.
- Strap length: Depends on size.
- Material: Cotton canvas.
- Width: Depends on size.
- Colors: Cream, with a choice of six different colored handles and trim.
- Closure type: Open (but if you prefer, L.L. Bean sells a zip-top boat and tote bag).
- Capacity: 56 liters (extra-large bag).
- Price on publish: $29.95 - $44.95.
What we like:
- Choose regular or long handles; open top or zip.
- Heavy canvas.
- Colorful trim.
- Can be monogrammed.
What we don’t like:
- May not be suitable for the office.
The AP Buyline Takeaway:
This extremely durable, classic canvas tote, manufactured in Maine, will last for decades with enough care.
Get it here: L.L. Bean Boat and Tote
Best Nylon Tote Bag: Calpak Luka Expandable Laptop Tote
CALPAK Luka Expandable Laptop Tote in Winter Sky
With so many great nylon tote bags out there, it was hard to pick one, but this came recommended by our experts, plus over 250 five-star reviews (my family is a fan of this brand, too). This expandable nylon laptop bag is strong, comes in tons of colors and is under $100. Its extendability and polished appearance, plus padded straps for comfort, mean it can work for business or pleasure, but it’s also a great candidate for a travel tote.
Specifications:
- Size: Large (one size).
- Strap length: Not listed (padded).
- Material: Nylon (poly).
- Width: 20 inches.
- Colors: 13 limited colors, including lilac and watermelon, plus four classic neutrals.
- Closure type: Zippered top.
- Capacity: 28.8 liters.
- Price on publish: $115.
What we like:
- It expands so you fit more into it.
- Great color selection.
- Comfortable padded straps.
What we don’t like:
- Nothing!
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This tote works for travel, business and even the market, with its comfortable padded straps, secure zip-top, four-inch expandable bottom and great color options.
Get it here: Calpak Luka Expandable Laptop Tote
How we chose the best tote bags
Expert advice
I interviewed stylists, designers and shop owners to get their opinions on what makes a great tote bag and the brands they recommend. I have also owned some of these totes and brands, as have my family members and friends.
Price points and product materials
I combed through customer reviews and products to find tote bags that fit a range of budgets and materials, from nylon to leather, then asked the experts for their opinions.
Diversity of features
These bags all have a little something extra, like zipped versus open tops, eco-friendly fabric, or the ability to expand or shrink depending on your tote needs for the day. I also considered how much weight the bags can hold without being too impossible to lift and if they were easy to pack.
What is the difference between a tote bag and a shoulder bag?
A tote and a shoulder bag have an important difference — a shoulder bag has one strap, and a tote has two. “Some tote bags have shorter straps — these bags are designed to be carried by hand or in the crook of the elbow, while other totes have a longer strap length so they can be carried over the shoulder (like a shoulder bag),” says Draugelis. Some tote bags can also convert into backpacks.
How to maintain and clean a tote bag
Maintain and clean your tote bag according to the designer's or manufacturer's directions. For example, some simple cotton shopping totes can be thrown into the laundry on a gentle cycle and then air-dried. Nylon or ripstop nylon can often simply be spot-cleaned with mild dishwasher soap and water, or an antibacterial wipe in a pinch while traveling. Vegan leather may also be spot-cleaned, but leather should be cleaned with a commercial leather cleaner or, depending on the bag, a mild dish soap.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Can tote bags support heavy loads without discomfort?
If you are toting around a heavy load, you should wear wide straps, preferably padded. A good tote bag should also evenly distribute weight. Check the capacity of your bag, too, so you don’t overstuff it.
Are tote bags suitable for work or professional settings?
Absolutely, the designers and stylists I interviewed agreed, but a more structured tote will look more polished in professional settings, so you may want to leave the more obvious-looking grocery totes at home when you go into the office.
Are tote bags trendy?
“Tote bags are classics — they’re never out of style! That said, for a trendier look, I’d go for a tote bag in denim, leopard print, metallic (I love silver), or even one in a really oversized shape — these all feel especially fresh for 2024,” recommends Draugelis.
AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.