A quality tote bag is an ideal tool for a traveler. Travel totes can easily hold all your stuff and they can fit anywhere.
Most importantly, they come in all shapes and sizes that fit your style. If you need to push the envelope on how large a personal item can be, there is nothing better than a travel tote bag.
Everybody is carrying oversized totes, it is spacious and can add an edge to any outfit. Totes can make traveling a lot of fun and have ample space for all your travel essentials.
A must-have in everyone’s wardrobe, totes can elevate your look within minutes. There are totes for a weekend getaway and totes that can hold all your essentials for a 4-day trip.
Whether you are looking for a bag for a day out at the beach or for a stylish bag for a business meeting, you have several tote options to choose from.
Totes beautifully expand for those days when you need a little extra space in the bag for your personal items. A lot of totes come with a hidden back section to attach the bag to the trolley luggage which makes traveling a lot more convenient.
TL;DR
Here are our top tote bag picks.
| Best Tote Overall | Michael Kors Jet Set Tote |
| Best Luxury Tote | RIMOWA Never Still Tote |
| Best Warranty | Briggs & Riley Traveler Tote |
| Best Tote for Business | Tumi Voyageur |
Best Travel Totes & Tote Bags to Buy
Here are my favorite tote bags for travel that will elevate your style and will come in handy for your next holiday. I tested each type of bag and product based on the available space, additional compartments, ease of use, and weight.
When picking totes, I am always on the lookout for different compartments to keep my stuff organized, I like lightweight totes when traveling, and if they have additional hidden compartments, even better!
1. Michael Kors Jet Set Item Tote
This Micheal Kors Jet Set Tote is a must-have in every woman’s wardrobe and is considered one of the best travel tote bags on the market. The leather tote is not just for show, it blends fashion and convenience by offering all your items an additional layer of protection.
The travel tote for women is ideal for the traveler who is not checking a bag and has to fit a few more items. It is ideal for those who carry their gadgets with them whenever on travel.
One downside is that this bag is not a great long-haul shoulder bag given the shorter straps and it’s not great for carrying a laptop.
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2. Puma Evercat Jane Tote
This bag from Puma is the perfect bag for your carry-on. It has a modern silhouette and is fun, fashionable, and functional. The carry-on tote for travel has a thoughtful design and features that keep what you need in hand.
It can easily slide over the shoulder or over the handle of any suitcase. The bag is ideal for those who are always on the go and is one of the best travel totes available at an affordable price.
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3. Coach Town Tote
Nobody does totes like Coach. Coach Town Tote is the only bag you need to paint the city red! The canvas travel tote delivers functionality and is comfortable to carry. It has two comfortable straps and can be easily carried on your shoulder.
The main compartment is extremely spacious and has interior organizational pockets to keep the belongings in place. The tote comes in a range of unique colors and will add an edge to your outfit.
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4. Knomo Luggage Women’s Grosvenor Place
This travel tote is all about function and form. It has a rectangular shape and a size that is ideal for laptops up to 15 inches. If you, like me carry work with you whenever you travel, this is an ideal tote bag for you.
It also has a trolley slip sleeve that fits on the handle of the wheeled luggage for convenient carrying. The bag has an RFID-blocking liner which will protect the passport and credit card at all times. It is one of the best luggage tote bags on the market today.
5. Timbuk2 Convertible Backpack Tote
For days when you want to free up your arms or want to just sling the tote on your shoulder, the Timbuk2 Convertible Backpack Tote will do the trick.
This minimalist tote has a longer removable strap ideal for those occasions. It has tucked-away back straps that add to your comfort and convenience.
The leather travel tote is great as a shoulder bag that can fit up to a 15” laptop and has a chic military look. It has adjustable shoulder straps and you can convert it into a backpack in no time.
6. Briggs & Riley Rhapsody-Essential Tote Bag
The tote is made of durable, water-resistant nylon and is ideal when you are traveling with children or if you are stepping out in the rain. You cannot use a leather bag when there are sleet, snow, and rain and that is when you can put the travel tote bag to use.
There is everything inside the tote- interior and exterior pockets, space for your laptop, zipper, and snap closures to ensure that everything is always in place.
The travel tote bag with pockets will ensure that everything is well organized. The bag has room for everything- pens, AirPods, headphones, power banks, sunglasses, chargers, USB cables, laptops, and more.
With these multiple pockets and sleek leather trim, this is an excellent bag for international travel as you’ll have the ability to bring your everyday essentials with you on the go while also looking stylish. This tote bag is soft to the touch and is highly durable.
7. Kenneth Cole Reaction Chevron
If you are a jet-setter who goes from a meeting to dinner with a client, this bag has everything you need. The interior of the bag has a padded laptop sleeve and slots that allow you to keep your tablet or a laptop. It has additional pockets ideal for the phone, cards, wallet, water bottle, and sunglasses.
The bag is compact and convenient. It will ensure that your most needed items are close at hand. The tote has handles that can be worn over the shoulder and it comes with a removable crossbody strap that extends to 52 inches long.
There is a trolley strap that will fit over most luggage trolleys for easy carrying. This makes this the perfect carry-on bag for frequent travelers.
8. Bluboon Weekender Bag
If you are somebody who packs everything in the personal item whenever you travel, this bag from Bluboon is perfect for you.
You will have everything in it for your weekend getaways to the week-long trips. This canvas tote is light in weight and is highly functional with it’s added shoulder straps.
It has enough space for the laptop, shoes, and has several color options to pick from.
The bag is the perfect size that will fit clothes and shoes for a short trip. It has ample space for the personal items, a yoga mat, and your workout gear.
You can use it as a gym duffel or for your weekend trips. It will carry everything you need for 3-4 days.
See Related: Best Portable Hair Dryers for Travel
9. Ecosusi Convertible Tote Bag
When shopping for a convertible travel bag, consider the Ecosusi Convertible Tote Backpack. It has functionality and style. The bag comes with comfortable straps and has organizational pockets. It also has leather handles and several color options.
The bag is light in weight and is made from water-resistant and highly durable material. You can use it as a backpack, shoulder bag, or handbag. Made from soft vegan leather, this bag will add style and elegance to your outfit.
10. Longchamp Le Pliage Tote
Lightweight nylon is an ideal material for travel tote bags but it will look great only if it is designed in the right manner. The Longchamp tote is an ideal example of how a brand can do nylon right and make it look stylish and elegant.
This bag is waterproof and it will fold flat without any wrinkles. The bag has a top zip with a logo and a snap flap closure. It comes with an interior cell phone pocket with a water-resistant lining. This is a popular bag to carry your travel essentials on long-haul trips or trips that have frequent transfers.
CHECK PRICES AND REVIEWS11. Ban.do Weekend Tote
If you are heading on a short trip, this travel tote is here to make it as easy and convenient as possible. The bag has a lot of space for all your essentials, it has a detachable mesh pouch inside and a sleeve on the exterior. It has a strong and stylish luggage handle which makes it an ideal carry-on for your next trip.
12. CG Gear Sand-Free Totes
Irrespective of your love for the sea and sand, there is nothing as annoying as finding sand at the bottom of the bag after a long day at the beach. Pack an extra beach bag for your day out.
The bag has a mesh bottom that addresses the sand issue. It will keep the debris out and it is so cute that you can use it throughout the trip. Made from high-grade vegan leather, this bag is durable and high quality.
It has a magnetic snapping top closure which secures the belongings in an easy and convenient manner. It also has another snap-shut pocket to keep your phone, valuables, and wallet.
The pockets ensure that all your belongings stay right in place and with ample space, you can accommodate clothes, towels, and toys for your children.
13. Btoop Travel Weekender Bag
This modern travel tote is for the fashionista. It is a beautiful tote that will fit your laptop, a change of clothes, shower essentials, and anything from books to shoes. Certainly, it is one of the best tote bags for travel. The travel tote bag with a zipper has a shoe compartment at the bottom that can hold two pairs of shoes.
Additionally, it has an inner zipper pocket for all your valuables and an inner pocket for your phone. That is not all, there is a zipper pocket at the back of the bag which becomes a trolley sleeve.
The bag can serve as a carry-on for airlines and can also be used as a duffle bag for the gym. Made from high-quality material and available in a stylish design, this tote is a must for all women.
14. Tumi Business Tote
When traveling for business, you need a business travel tote you can take straight from the plane to the meeting. Tumi makes some of the best women’s travel totes for business trips.
The tote is waterproof and a stain-resistant bag. It will make a strong impression with a simple and clear design. The bag comes with exterior sleeves which lets you easily attach it to the handle of the wheeled luggage. The Tumi tote is practical and purposeful.
It comes with a water-resistant water bottle pocket, several organizational pockets, and convertible shoulder straps. The bag will keep everything in place and well organized. It also has a phone pocket with a magnetic snap. You get to choose from the several color options available for you.
Love Tumi products? Check out these best Tumi travel kits.
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15. Logan + Lenora Weekender – Waterproof Travel Tote
If you are investing in a travel tote to save you on a rainy day, check out this stylish tote. It has a classic look with multiple compartments including a padded pocket for the tablet. The stylish tote will keep you organized in any weather.
It has 3 rear open pockets and 1 middle pocket that can be converted into a trolley sleeve. The bag also has a waterproof zippered inner and outer pockets. This travel tote bag is available in a range of colors.
16. Vera Bradley Microfiber Tote
Show your style and personality with a classic tote. It is available in different patterns and colors.
This tote bag is perfect for those who often overpack. It has a padded exterior that will give your belongings additional protection from drops and bumps.
Made from lightweight microfiber, the bag is ideal for any occasion. It has 6 slip interior pockets that will keep everything well organized from the lipstick to your laptop. The exterior has a front slip pocket, a hidden top pocket, and a zip pocket.
It is perfect for your phone, wallet, books, or valuables that can be easily accessed but still remain out of sight.
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17. Bostanten Leather Tote Bag
Here is an elegant and affordable travel tote bag for you. The bag has a simple design and comes with several pockets and ample room for miscellaneous items. It has an excellent built-in functionality with extra long straps that make it more comfortable to wear on the shoulder for long periods of time. The internal structure has one main compartment and one removable pouch.
There is a zipper pouch with one pocket, 2 slip pockets, and an inner zipper pouch. There are 2 side slip pockets and 2 magnetic buckle pockets in the exterior.
18. S Zone Vintage Leather Tote
If you want a no-fuss, simple and straightforward tote bag, check out the S Zone vintage tote. It is functional and stylish. The bag has one main compartment and a removable zipper pouch. It is big enough to hold your devices as well as other items.
It is made from sturdy leather and has many pockets to keep you organized. The bag can also hold a 15-inch laptop. Picking the right travel tote is crucial for comfort, convenience, and style.
Things to Consider When Buying a Travel Tote Bag
The main aspects to consider were size, materials, security, and several useful other features.
Size
Women’s travel totes come in different sizes and shapes. You should find one that is the right size for you or your needs. There are travel tote bags with compartments to help with organization.
There are different types of travel totes for different trips. You should know how much you are going to need before you decide which one you want.
Travel handbags with smaller dimensions like the travel tote by Baggalini are great if you don’t travel a lot. Some offer locks and other features too! Tote bags come in different sizes, so decide how much you want to carry and find one that suits your needs.
Materials
Travel totes are made from many different materials. The type of material will depend on the type of travel tote you want. Leather tote bags for travel are great for longer trips, but not if you only travel by car.
Security
it’s important to find a travel tote bag with numerous pockets so you can keep your belongings safe. Some travel totes come with built-in locks for increased security., security, and several other features.
Durability
Travel bags are made to last, but take into consideration the construction of the travel tote you want. Some brands simply do not construct bags that are meant to last forever.
Plus, you never want your only bag to break while you are traveling. Designer travel totes are often much more expensive than regular travel totes but last much longer.
Weight
Lighter travel tote bags will be easier to carry for longer periods of time and in those long, boring security lines. Size, materials, and security are critical facets of purchasing and carrying your luggage. It depends on who is traveling and what you plan on using in the bag.
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How to clean a travel tote
You can wash the tote regularly and it is very easy to do so. You can wash a tote bag in your machine as most bags are machine washable.
If the tote is dyed, you need to ensure that it is colorfast before you wash it. If the bag has embellishments, you need to wash the bag with your hand only.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the best travel tote bags?
There are many travel totes on the market these days. Some are specifically designed for travel while others are simply larger versions of everyday tote bags, here are some of the best on the market: the Michael Kors tote, Longchamp, and the Vera Bradley weekender bag.
Which tote bags are travel-friendly?
The travel tote with the best design and functionality is Melissa’s Large Ostrich Bag. It has a few pockets built in for travel necessities like your passport or tablet, and it locks closed so that there is no mistaking that your bag will stay closed during travel. It also features a spacious main compartment with an insulated sleeve which makes this a great carry-on tote for those long flights.
Why do you need a travel tote?
A travel tote is a bag for travelers to store items needed on a trip. A travel tote can also contain medication, a first-aid kit, and travel documents. It comes in many styles and sizes. Some options include gym travel totes, beach bags, diaper bags, and laptop carry-on tote bags.
The best travel tote bags are ones that are both functional to use while traveling, but still, look great. Luxury travel tote bags should be lightweight yet large enough to carry all your travel necessities without breaking your back, whether it’s a laptop or toiletries.
What is an ideal size of travel tote to carry a laptop?
The ideal tote for business depends on the items you carry. If you have a 13-inch laptop, it will fit in a medium-sized tote and if you use a 15-inch laptop, you will need a large-sized bag to ensure that the laptop fits in easily.
What is the best type of material for a tote?
Choose sturdy fabrics for your travel tote bags like denim, canvas, outdoor fabric, twill, or upholstery fabric. It ensures that the bag remains durable and is not damaged in a few dumps and bumps. A quality tote will have high-quality material like canvas or denim which is also washable.
How to tell the difference between an authentic Michael Kors tote and a fake tote?
With increasing fakes in the market, it has become essential to be aware of the difference between an authentic product and a fake handbag.
When it comes to Michael Kors, you need to learn to identify the Saffiano leather. It has become synonymous with the brand. Saffiano is calf leather and it has a criss-cross pattern pressed on it. When you look at an original piece, it will look rigid and well-structured but a fake will look soft and floppy.
Additionally, the original leather will have a gloss to it. MK has two different logos-an expanded logo and a circle emblem. You need to check that the logo is properly cut and the letters are evenly spaced. In an inauthentic version, the logo will not look very clear. Logo hardware is heavy in an authentic bag and it is plastic coated in a fake tote.
What is the best way to store a tote?
The best way to store the handbag is to use a purse insert for support and a dust bag cover. Many bags come with their own dust bag cover which you can use. You can also keep tissue paper inside the handbag to maintain its shape.
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