The Best Tote Bags of 2025

Ah, the best tote bags — the multitaskers 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 a variety of totes.

After months in the field, our testers, Meg Carney and Taneika Duhaney, came up with a list of their favorites. Meg packed these bags around for weeks while running daily errands, for beach days with her dogs, on picnic dates, and on a road trip from Washington to Utah that also brought her through Wyoming and Idaho. On her journey, she traded suitcases for tote bags, and unlike traditional bags, they kept her organized and made items exceptionally easy to access.

Taneika is a mother to human and dog children, so she’s no stranger to adventures that require a lot of stuff. And she’s 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 accessibility, organization, durability, and usability. Whether you’re seeking the versatility and features of our top pick, the North Face Base Camp Voyager Tote, or a more budget-friendly option like the REI Co-op Trailgate 45 Tote, we have you covered. 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.

Editor’s Note: On October 8, 2024, we updated this guide by adding 5 new tote bags, re-testing and expanding our descriptions of all the others on the list, and greatly expanding our buyer’s guide.

The Best Tote Bags of 2025

Best Overall Tote Bag: North Face Base Camp Voyager Tote
Best Budget Tote Bag: REI Co-op Trailgate 45 Tote
Most Versatile Tote Bag: Stio Basin XT CarryAll 25L
Best Tote Bag for Large Loads: Cotopaxi Allpa 60L Gear Hauler Tote
Best Outdoor Tote Bag: YETI Camino Carryall 35 Tote
Best Insulated Tote Bag: Hydroflask 20L Insulated Tote
Best Tote Bag for Grocery Shopping: Gregory Alpaca Gear Tote 30

Best Overall Tote Bag

Specifications

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

If you’re looking for a tote bag that can do a little bit of everything and is the perfect personal item for air travel, consider The North Face Base Camp Voyager Tote ($89). Its simple yet effective construction of recycled polyester and ballistic nylon makes it a great choice for working professionals, students, and travelers.

The generous main compartment houses a padded laptop enclosure outfitted with a Velcro strap to securely hold a laptop, book, or other valuables in place. We primarily used this as a work bag for days we wanted to leave our home office and go to a coffee shop or a shared workspace. When we were on the road, it was also nice to have a dedicated, easy-to-grab bag that kept all our work necessities (computer, microphone, headphones, pen, paper) organized.

The easy-to-access front pockets are perfect for organizing your cell phone, pens, small notepads, cords, and other daily-use items like chapstick or lotion. We took it grocery shopping a few times and discovered the main compartment is roomy enough for a few things you may need to grab on your way home from work. However, it isn’t quite as roomy as some others, like the Cotopaxi 60L or Gregory Alpaca, which are better suited for big trips to the grocery store.

Though versatile, this everyday workhorse is only available in a handful of colors. We tested the black, and like that it matches several outfits and settings. However, we feel it would look more professional if it didn’t have such a large, visible North Face logo right on the front. We typically don’t invest in black bags or clothing items because we have two huskies, and keeping anything black and free of husky hair is nearly impossible.

However, these materials don’t hold onto dog hair and keep a professional, sleek look. The 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 are ideal for water bottles and a compact umbrella.

Ideal for traveling, this bag’s luggage sleeve attaches seamlessly to rolling luggage so you can have one hand free. It also easily fits in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. The Base Camp Voyager Tote is perfect for students, commuters, air travel, and casual business settings. This tote makes organizing and retrieving essentials a breeze.

Best Budget Tote Bag

Specifications

Weight: 1 lb., 8 oz.
Volume: 43.2 L
Outside dimensions: 16” x 12” x 18”
Materials: 300-denier recycled polyester, 1,680-denier recycled nylon (Bluesign approved)

Pros

Drawstring top to secure belongings
Versatile carrying options
Made from bluesign-approved materials
Fairly easy-to-clean materials
Compression strap helps hold items in place

Cons

No pockets to organize smaller items
Handles and shoulder strap are not that comfortable to carry heavy load

The REI Co-op Trailgate 45 Tote ($70) is the ultimate budget-friendly choice for staying organized on outdoor adventures. Designed with the practical camper in mind, this tote fits into the footwell of most vehicles, turning often-overlooked spaces into efficient storage areas. Its 43.2-liter capacity provides ample room for your gear, while the drawstring top ensures your belongings stay secure and protected.

Although it is slightly more affordable than some other options, it doesn’t seem to compromise much in terms of functionality or durability. It’s made from 300-denier recycled polyester with a TPU coating and is resistant to moisture and stains. We used this bag primarily as a beach bag when going to the river to swim with our dogs. It was large enough to carry a towel, a camera bag, a large dog life jacket, leashes, snacks (for humans and dogs), and two water bottles.

While it would’ve been nice to have some small pockets to organize things like keys and phones, the side water bottle holders were convenient for storing beverages. When only storing one water bottle, we kept items like phones and sunscreen in the other side pocket for easy access.

When driving, walking down to the beach, and even at the beach, it was nice to have the drawstring top to keep items inside the bag and sand out. There are three different carrying options: a shoulder strap, two top handles, and two side handles. While the side handles are a nice option, we didn’t ever need to use them other than when organizing or moving the bag around in our vehicles.

We also occasionally used this bag for groceries and discovered this tote could carry about three average grocery bags worth of food. The shoulder strap made it easy to carry multiple bags at a time but wasn’t that comfortable under heavy weight. During one trip, some orange juice spilled. It was very easy to wipe up just using a wet washcloth. The materials didn’t seem to hold onto or absorb the juice, and no sticky residue remained. After days at the beach, we easily dumped out any wayward sand, and the fabric did not hold onto any grains, making it easy to transition between activities and functions.

Overall, the Trailgate 45 Tote combines smart design, durability, and eco-friendliness, making it the best budget tote for all your camping, travel, and daily carrying needs.

Most Versatile Tote Bag

Specifications

Weight: 1 lb., 6 oz.
Volume: 25 L
Outside dimensions: 12" x 14.75" x 7.5"
Materials: CORDURA 600-denier ripstop, 100% polyester with TPU coating and DWR finish

Pros

Extremely versatile
Open top with webbed compression strap
Comfortable handles
Stands upright when full
Strong, durable materials

Cons

Lacks a water bottle sleeve
Materials feel vbulky
Limited color options

The Stio Basin XT CarryAll 25L Tote Bag ($89) is the ultimate everyday carry option, blending durability, functionality, and style for various activities. Constructed from weatherproof, ultra-tough 600 denier CORDURA material with a TPU-coated exterior, this tote excels in withstanding the elements, keeping mud, water, and debris at bay.

Whether you’re heading to the ski slopes, yoga studio, or out of town, the Basin XT is designed to handle your daily gear easily. The open top allows for quick packing, while the webbed compression strap secures your items, ensuring nothing shifts during transit. The external daisy chain is perfect for attaching additional accessories, and the padded, non-slip handles offer comfortable over-the-shoulder carrying. We tried to find an individual activity or use case that was the best for this bag, but we couldn’t because it works everywhere. It performs well on adventures to the park with the pups, quick overnights runs down to the farmer’s market, and trips to the gym.

The tote has exterior and interior zippered pockets, including a fleece-lined pocket ideal for your phone or glasses. A key clip keeps small essentials organized, and the tote stands on its own for easy loading. It would’ve been nice to have a few more exterior pockets and a water bottle holder outside or inside the bag.

Real-world use cases highlight its versatility: it’s perfect for grocery runs, transporting workout gear, or carrying supplies for a spontaneous weekend getaway. Though adding a few features could have pushed this to our best overall spot, the Basin XT CarryAll 25L remains a reliable, well-constructed bag that meets diverse needs with excellent performance.

Best Tote Bag for Large Loads

Specifications

Weight: 1 lb., 8 oz.
Volume: 60 L
Outside dimensions: 20” x 14” x 14”
Materials: 100% deadstock nylon and polyester

Pros

Large capacity
Plenty of organizational features
Zippered top and compression straps
Folds down for easy storage when not in use
Extremely versatile
Top handles are large enough to carry over shoulder

Cons

No water bottle holder
Depending on what you’re carrying, you can’t always close the zipper

The Cotopaxi Allpa 60L Gear Hauler Tote ($115) stands out as the best tote for transporting a large load of gear, including kid’s toys, beach essentials, clothes, or groceries. It combines versatility, durability, and eco-conscious design to create, dare we say, a near-perfect tote. The largest bag on our list, it offers an impressive 60-liter capacity (3661 cu in) that easily accommodates all your essentials.

While road-tripping from Washington to Utah and back, this was our choice for storing all the essentials we needed to bring into a hotel or friend’s house for the night. The large zipper compartment fits everything (and even has room to spare) for an entire week on the road. However, when fully loaded, the zipper is hard to close, so if you want a bag with more compact closure capabilities, a duffel may be a better option.

With dual tote handles and side grab handles, you can carry it by hand or over the shoulder, adapting to different scenarios. We especially like how easy it is to carry over the shoulder, making it easy to manage other things like walking a dog or getting out a room key.

The interior is thoughtfully organized, with a zippered pocket and slip pockets to keep small items secure and accessible. This added organization also makes toiletries and items like phone cords easily accessible. The top straps help compress the bag, preventing shifting and ensuring stability. The only thing that we feel is missing from this bag is a dedicated spot for a water bottle.

We favor this tote as a road trip travel bag, but if you want one better suited for carry-on air travel, check out the North Face Basecamp Voyager Tote. We also use the Allpa for large grocery trips, as a gear bag for car camping, and as a beach bag big enough to carry towels, snacks, and more for the whole group. Whether you’re hauling gear for a camping trip or transporting beach essentials, the Allpa 60L Gear Hauler Tote delivers exceptional functionality and style, making it a top choice for anyone who has a lot to carry on the go.

Best Outdoor Tote Bag

Specifications

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

If you’re 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 YETI’s proprietary Thickskin and molded EVA materials, the Camino Carryall tote is built for anything — literally anything. Weighing 3 pounds, this heavy-duty tote can carry up to 1,500 pounds of static weight, making it perfect for toting around anything from a few gallons of milk from the store to your tote-sized pup when the ground is too hot on the walk back from the beach.

Though we couldn’t verify the weight limit during testing, we tested the tote while carrying logs, firewood, camping gear, propane tanks, groceries, pets, 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 it’s 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 Camino Carryall 35 Tote’s versatility and durability make it a worthy investment. It’s the perfect tote for your next beach trip, playdate, or camping excursion.

Best Tote Bag for Grocery Shopping

Specifications

Weight: 1 lb., 14 oz.
Volume: 30 L
Outside dimensions: 14.3” x 17.8” x 10”
Materials: Polyester with C0 DWR, anodized aluminum frame

Pros

Collapsible design for storage
Smaller interior pocket for keeping small items organized
Frame keeps the tote upright and rigid
Upright design makes things easy to access
Very versatile use case options

Cons

Frame makes it awkward to carry at times
No closure for the top of the tote
Limited color options

The Gregory Alpaca Gear Tote 30 ($60) is the ultimate choice for grocery shopping, gear hauling, and everyday use. Practical and durable, this tote excels in functionality and convenience and is most comparable to the YETI Camino CarryAll Tote. The biggest difference between the YETI and this one (other than being half the price) is that it is fully collapsible, making it easier to store when not in use.

With its slim, soft-sided design, the Alpaca Gear Tote fits perfectly behind the front seat of your car, utilizing the often-unused footwell space. The lightweight aluminum frame keeps the tote open for easy access, making loading and unloading groceries a breeze. We use this most often for trips to the store because of the amount it can carry and the strength it has compared to a standard reusable shopping bag. We also use it to store our dog’s gear and food when on the road. It packs a week’s worth of items, including a small bag of dog food and several pouches of wet food, his dog bowl, toys, supplements, water bottles, leashes, and more.

Its rigid frame and structured bottom, with two layers of fabric and foam padding, provide exceptional durability, safeguarding your groceries or other items against bumps and jostles. While the rigid design is nice, especially for car travel or unloading and loading items, it makes carrying awkward.

We would’ve liked a different handle design because it wasn’t very easy to throw over our shoulder. When holding it on one arm, the aluminum frame dug into our arm, making it uncomfortable to carry for very long. The best option for carrying was simply with one hand dangling down by your side, but that’s not always the most functional or easiest carrying option.

Whether you’re heading to the grocery store, a park, or an outdoor event, the Alpaca Gear Tote 30 combines robust design with practical features, making it an indispensable addition to your daily routine.

Best Insulated Tote Bag

How we rate products ⓘ

Specifications

Weight: 1 lb., 5 oz.
Volume: 20 L
Outside dimensions: 14” x 18” x 7”
Materials: 100% recycled polyester with a waterproof coating

Pros

Stays upright when full
Tall enough to fit a full-sized wine bottle
Easy to clean
Waterproof materials to keep moisture in or out
Small outer pocket for small items like keys or phone
Several color options

Cons

Could use at least one small internal pocket for additional storage
Top opening is kind of small

The Hydro Flask 20L Insulated Tote ($65) is your ultimate companion for keeping food and drinks perfectly chilled on the go. Ideal for a variety of uses, this versatile tote transitions from a lightweight, soft cooler to a reusable grocery bag or even a daily lunch bag.

Its fully lined, leakproof interior ensures easy cleaning and prevents spills from escaping. The 20L capacity is perfect for packing groceries, picnic lunches, or cans and bottles, making it an excellent choice for beach days, boat trips, or a day at the park.

As an insulated tote, we felt opportunities for use would be limited, but we used it more than anticipated. It came in handy for keeping drinks and snacks cool on long drives to the trailhead, for picnics and as a lunch bag on our work job site where it kept food cold until lunch (with an ice pack, of course). It held up to the wear and tear of being hauled around and tossed in the back of a truck or van and occasionally was a helpful companion in keeping items cold on a trip back from the grocery store. Don’t expect this tote to keep items cold for more than 5 to 6 hours, and on a hot summer day (85+ degrees F), it only keeps them cold for about 2 to 3 hours.

One additional feature we love, especially when using it as a lunch bag or a beach bag, is the waterproof exterior pocket. We stored keys and phones in this pocket during picnics and beach outings, so we didn’t have to carry an extra bag for essentials. If something leaked or spilled in the tote, the waterproofing kept everything contained inside the bag. This meant easy cleaning with a quick rinse and air or wipe dry. The only thing missing: a designated slot or pocket inside the tote for utensils or even a mesh interior pocket to hold a beverage can or bottle upright.

The tote’s well-structured design and vibrant colors make it both functional and stylish. The 20L Insulated Tote is a top choice for keeping your essentials cool and organized, whether for a day at work or an afternoon outdoors.

Other Tote Bags We Tested

Specifications

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

Have you ever considered a tote bag that fits in the palm of your hand? We know what you’re 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 couldn’t imagine why this tote was included in this category. After unfolding 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 can’t see: hand and backpack straps, dual mesh 1L 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, but is not as rugged or durable as the YETI Camino Carryall Tote.

The 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.

Specifications

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

One of Ecuador’s 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 its clean lines, eye-catching but muted colors, cape, and excellent organization. We tested it on runs to the grocery store, yoga studio, beach, and on longer international trips. It shined no matter where it was toted.

This tote includes many features normally found in more oversized travel totes, such as multiple external zippered pockets, yoga mat straps, side carry handles, a shoulder strap, and large bottom storage. Meg found the organization options of this tote to be a little overkill at times, but it added to the versatility of the use cases and organizational capacities for travel.

At 37 L, the weekender’s 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 also easily fit under airline seats.

When we weren’t 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 Viaje 35L Weekender Tote Bag tote on your next weekend getaway or grocery run. It can do it all.

Specifications

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
Fairly water resistant

Cons

Zipper is not water-resistant
Strap is bare-bones without padding
Materials are thin and could easily rip

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 all your concert-going essentials; it fits a phone, wallet, snacks, water bottle, and a light layer. It’s big enough to carry everything you need without feeling oversized or cumbersome. We also use it for trips to the dog park. We like that it’s small and lightweight enough to sling over our shoulder and large enough to fit a towel, dog treats, a water bottle, and other essentials like phone and keys.

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.

The cons of this tote lie in its overall appearance and quality. It appears cheaper and feels flimsy; we can see this bag ripping or tearing very easily. The materials are not very high quality, so the use cases are limited. Though the zipper worked smoothly, the single stitch connecting it 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. Although the zipper isn’t waterproof, the plastic outer materials are, and we had no issues with items getting wet, even with dogs shaking off next to the bag or water splashing it while they played.

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.

Tote Bag Comparison Chart

Tote Bag	Price	Volume	Dimensions	Weight	Materials
North Face Base Camp Voyager Tote	$89	27 L	15″ x 14.3″ x 5.9″	1 lb., 1.6 oz.	Recycled polyester, recycled ballistic nylon
REI Co-op Trailgate 45 Tote	$80	43.2 L	15.75″ x 12″ x 7.5″	1 lb., 12.8 oz.	300-denier recycled polyester, 1,680-denier recycled nylon
Stio Basin XT CarryAll 25L	$89	25 L	12″ x 14.75″ x 7.5″	1 lb., 6 oz.	CORDURA 600-denier ripstop, 100% polyester with TPU coating and DWR finish
Cotopaxi Allpa 60L Gear Hauler Tote	$115	60 L	20” x 14” x 14”	1 lb., 8 oz.	100% deadstock nylon and polyester
YETI Camino Carryall 35 Tote	$150	35 L	18.1″ x 14.9″ x 9.9″	3 lbs., 8 oz.	Nylon
Hydroflask 20L Insulated Tote	$65	20 L	14” x 18” x 7”	1 lb., 5 oz.	100% recycled polyester with a waterproof coating
Gregory Alpaca Gear Tote 30	$60	30 L	14.3” x 17.8” x 10”	1 lb., 14 oz.	Polyester with C0 DWR, anodized aluminum frame
Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack	$99	27 L	15.5″ x 10.25″ x 8″	13 oz.	0-denier recycled ripstop nylon
Cotopaxi Viaje 35L Weekender Tote Bag	$130	35 L	21″ x 15″ x 12″	1 lb., 12.8 oz.	Recycled polyester
Bagail Clear Bags Tote	$9	13.5 L	12″ x 12″ x 6″	8 oz.	Vinyl, nylon

We put in the testing time so you don’t have to; (photo/Ethan Wiese)

How We Tested the Best Tote Bags

Our Expert Testers

We tested ten tote bags between two testers and activities ranging from international and domestic travel to grocery hauls, commuting, beach days, and outdoor adventures. Our lead tester, Meg Carney, applied her 7+ years of outdoor gear testing and writing experience to see how well these bags held up to the chaos of her daily life with three high-energy dogs, frequent country road trips, and everything in between. Contributor Taneika Duhaney has over 12 years of experience as a bike commuter, traveler, and gear reviewer.

Our Testing Process

Over separate periods, their 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. They stretched every pocket, zipped every zipper, packed every compartment, pulled every cord, and snapped every closure. Through real-life testing scenarios, they scuffed the fabrics, stained the handles, and knotted the drawstrings. In short, we put these totes through the wringer.

To assess a tote bag’s quality and suitability for different use cases, we looked at the following qualities in each bag:
● Durability: how will the material strength and weather resistance hold up in real-world scenarios and continued use?
● Carrying Comfort: what are the handle ergonomics and weight distribution like in different positions and under different weights? How many handles and carrying combinations are there?
● Organization: are there pockets and compartments for additional organization? How easy is it to access and use different organizational features?
● Capacity: what is the carrying capacity? How usable is the tote when used at the highest capacity?
● Ease of Cleaning: totes get dirty in the real world, so how well do the materials repel dirt? How easy is the bag to clean if something spills inside?
● Versatility: tote bags should be versatile and able to be used in several different scenarios. How many use cases were the bags suitable for and which ones did they work best for?
● Stability: how well did the bags stand up on their own when loaded?

The **North Face Base Camp Voyager** stood out as the best overall tote bag; (photo/Ryan Kempfer, Elk Raven Photography)

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Tote Bags

Types of Tote Bags

Travel Tote

We were able to pack a ton into the **REI Co-op Trailgate 45,** but it can fit so much that it may not fit under your seat if you’re carrying it on a plane; (photo/Ethan Wiese)

Commuter Tote

The **North Face Base Camp Voyager Tote**, our best overall pick, has a number of pockets to keep you organized while commuting; (photo/Ethan Wiese)

Fashion Tote

Closure Configuration

Zipper Closures

Drawstring Closure

Hook Closure

The **Cotopaxi Allpa 60L Gear Hauler Tote** fits a ton of gear and is best for large loads, but it also has a lot of organizational features; (photo/Ethan Wiese)

Size

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

Weight

For our lightest bag, the Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole packs quite a punch; (photo/Elk Raven Photography)

Features

A well-designed tote bag should include features tailored to its intended use, enhancing functionality and practicality. For example, commuter totes often come with padded laptop sleeves to securely carry your tech, while weekender totes might include a separate compartment for dirty laundry, making travel more organized. Adventure totes typically have reinforced handles and large, unobstructed main compartments to withstand rugged use and carry bulky gear. Some others, like the Gregory Alpaca Gear Tote 30, pack down when not in use to save space.

Waterproofness

The Hydro Flask 20L Insulated Tote keeps food and drinks cold and it’s water-resistant; (photo/Ethan Wiese)

Frequently Asked Questions

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 doesn’t mean it’s 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 tote’s weight evenly, especially if you plan to carry it for extended periods.

Every tote will encounter dirt, stains, dust, or smells at some point. Occasional cleaning is required to keep bags looking their best. When it’s time to clean your tote, consider the bag’s 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.

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 bag’s 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.