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20 Best Travel Totes: Portable Bags & Carry-Ons

Travel Tote Bag on a White Background

The best travel tote is the one that clears your airline’s personal-item sizer while still holding a laptop. That is a narrower target than most roundups admit: of the 20 totes below, 14 fit American and Delta’s 18 x 14 x 8 in allowance, only one fits United’s stricter 17 x 10 x 9 in, and six are large enough that they count as your full carry-on instead. The Michael Kors Jet Set Tote is the only pick here that clears all three major US limits.

A good tote bag is the single most useful thing I carry onto a plane. I suffer from a bit of flying anxiety (yes, even as someone who flies at least once a month), so it’s essential for me to have a bag that can fit all of my travel essentials. Purses are all too small, and it’s not practical to go in and out of a Level8 carry-on suitcase while flying or on a train.

That’s where tote bags come in! I love a shoulder bag that can fit my laptop, noise-canceling headphones, Kindle, and travel documents.

While I prefer a tote that can be used as a personal item bag, there are also tote bags large enough to qualify as your only carry-on and foldable tote bags you can bring if you plan to do some shopping.

I judged every bag below on four things: durability, materials, how it carries when it is full, and price. I’ve considered durability, materials, comfortability, and cheap places to visit in Europe.

The sizing tables below tell you which ones clear an airline personal-item sizer and which ones do not. I hope this list helps make your life much easier when deciding on your next travel sling bag purchase.

TL;DR

Best Tote Overall Michael Kors Jet Set Tote
Luxury Tote RIMOWA Never Still Tote
Warranty Briggs & Riley Baseline Traveler Tote
Tote for Business Tumi Voyageur

Will a travel tote fit as a personal item?

It depends entirely on which airline you booked. American and Delta both allow an under-seat personal item of 18 x 14 x 8 inches. United allows 17 x 10 x 9 inches, which is far tighter in one dimension and rules out most totes sold as travel totes. Southwest sits between them at 16.25 x 13.5 x 8 inches. A tote that sails through at one gate can be pulled at another on the same itinerary.

The table below runs every pick in this guide against all three limits. A bag counts as fitting when its listed dimensions clear the allowance in some orientation, so a tall narrow tote laid on its side still counts. Soft bags compress and rigid-bottomed bags do not, which is why a stated fit is a starting point rather than a guarantee at a strict gate.

ToteListed size (in)American / Delta 18 x 14 x 8United 17 x 10 x 9Southwest 16.25 x 13.5 x 8
Michael Kors Jet Set Tote16 x 10 x 4.5YesYesYes
Coach Town Tote12.25 x 12.5 x 4.75YesNoYes
Longchamp Le Pliage Tote13 x 13 x 7.5YesNoYes
Ecosusi Convertible Tote Bag11 x 4.9 x 14.7YesNoYes
Bostanten Leather Tote Bag10.4 x 5.9 x 12.7YesNoYes
Puma Evercat Jane Tote15 x 13.5 x 6YesNoYes
Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Tote15 x 14 x 7YesNoNo
Kenneth Cole Reaction Chevron Business Tote17 x 13 x 5YesNoNo
Ban.do Getaway Weekender Bag17 x 14 x 4.5YesNoNo
Tumi Voyageur Business Tote11.25 x 16.5 x 6YesNoNo
RIMOWA Never Still Canvas Tote12.6 x 16.3 x 6.7YesNoNo
Peak Design Everyday Tote16.5 x 12.6 x 6.7YesNoNo
Timbuk2 Vapor Convertible Backpack Tote11.8 x 4.3 x 17.3YesNoNo
Vera Bradley Microfiber Tote15 x 14.5 x 6NoNoNo
Knomo Grosvenor Laptop Tote18.9 x 5.5 x 13NoNoNo
BAGSMART Large Tote Bag19.3 x 6.3 x 13.8NoNoNo
S-Zone Vintage Leather Tote12.6 x 16.9 x 13NoNoNo
BEIS The East To West Tote17.1 x 14.2 x 9NoNoNo
Away The Packable Carryall15 x 19.7 x 9NoNoNo
Briggs & Riley Baseline Traveler Tote13 x 21 x 7.5NoNoNo
Fit calculated from each bag’s listed dimensions against published US personal-item allowances. Confirm with your airline before you fly.

Three takeaways from that table. First, United is the outlier – its 10-inch middle dimension eliminates almost every tote built to hold a 15-inch laptop flat. Second, the six bags marked No across the board are not bad bags; they are carry-on-sized bags, which is a different job. The Away Packable Carryall at 15 x 19.7 x 9 and the Briggs & Riley Baseline Traveler at 13 x 21 x 7.5 are meant to be your one bag, not your second one. Third, if you fly several carriers a year, buy for the tightest one you use.

If you would rather solve the problem from the other direction, a collapsible case like the one in our Rollink Flex 360 review frees up the overhead allowance so the tote only ever has to be a personal item.

Best Travel Totes & Tote Bags to Buy

1. Michael Kors Jet Set Tote

Pink Michael Kors Jet Set Tote
Michael Kors Jet Set Tote / Amazon

This Michael Kors Jet Set Tote is a must-have in every woman’s wardrobe and is considered one of the most popular travel tote bags on the market. The leather tote is not just for show; it blends fashion and practicality by offering all your items an additional layer of protection.

This travel tote for women is ideal for travelers who only need to fit the basics but love to keep organized. It’s not super large but features several interior and exterior pockets.

It can easily fit digital nomad visa paperwork, a wallet, a book or Kindle, and an iPad, but it cannot fit a full-size laptop. The bag comes in many beautiful colors in Michael Kors’ signature MK print.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 16″ x 10″ x 4.5″
  • Material: Cotton, Leather, and Polyester
  • Weight: 2.07 pounds

Pros

  • It can be used for many different occasions
  • Several pockets for organization
  • The classic print and many color options
  • Easily fits under an airplane seat

Cons

  • Cannot fit a full-size laptop

See Related: Vacation Dresses

2. Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Tote

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Tote - Ideal Weekender Travel Bag, perfect for quick getaways
Kyle Kroeger / ViaTravelers

Lo & Sons is a family-run travel bag brand known for providing stylish yet sensible bags. Inspired by her frequent travels, Helen Lo started the brand at age 65 with her two sons, who helped make her dreams come true.

Lo & Sons bags range from large duffle bags to fanny packs and wallets. My favorite Lo & Sons tote bag is the Catalina Deluxe Tote. The travel tote is available in recycled poly and eco-friendly canvas and in a range of modern colors to suit any preference.

My favorite features are the long straps, removable shoulder straps, trolley sleeves, and separate shoe compartments. The inner lining of the shoe compartment is removable for easy cleaning, which is definitely a bonus!

Our Managing Editor, Kim Magaraci, unboxed the Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Tote. Have a look at the experience of this classic tote bag.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 15″ x 14″ x 7″
  • Material: Recycled Poly or Canvas
  • Weight: 2.26 pounds (poly) – 2.9 pounds (canvas)

Pros

  • Fits under an airplane seat
  • Stylish color options
  • Easy to clean
  • Separate shoe compartment
  • Spacious main compartment

Cons

  • No padded laptop compartment
  • No water bottle pocket

See Related: Monos Luggage Review: Is it Worth it?

3. Coach Town Tote

Coach Leather Town Tote for Travel
Coach Town Tote / Amazon

Nobody does totes like Coach. The Coach Town Tote delivers functionality and has a lovely classic design. It features two comfortable straps and can be easily carried on your shoulder.

The main compartment is spacious and has an interior organizational pocket to keep your keys, phone, or wallet in place. The tote comes in various unique colors and will add color to any outfit.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 12.25″ x 12.5″ x 4.75″
  • Material: Polished Pebble Leather

Pros

  • Comes in a variety of colors
  • Timeless style
  • Large main compartment

Cons

  • Only one small interior zip pocket

See Related: Travel Humidifiers

4. Knomo Grosvenor Laptop Tote

Model with Knomo Grosvenor Laptop Tote
Knomo Grosvenor Laptop Tote / Amazon

This travel tote is all about function and form. Its rectangular shape and size are ideal for daily commuting and air travel. This London-based brand was founded by frequent travelers who wanted a stylish yet functional tote for business travelers. This is a perfect tote bag if you, like me, carry work whenever you travel.

It also has a trolley slip sleeve that fits on the handle of the wheeled luggage for convenient carrying, in addition to its soft leather handles. The bag has an RFID-blocking liner that protects your passport travel document number and best travel credit cards.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 18.9″ x 5.5″ x 13″
  • Material: Nylon, Linen, and Leather
  • Capacity: 19.6 L
  • Weight: 1.7 pounds

Pros

  • Fits a 16″ laptop and a pair of sneakers
  • Sleek design
  • Exterior RFID-protected pocket
  • Easily goes from daily use to travel

Cons

  • High price
  • Only two color options

5. Timbuk2 Vapor Convertible Backpack Tote

Timbuk2 Vapor Convertible Backpack Tote
Timbuk2 Vapor Convertible Backpack Tote / Amazon

Timbuk2’s convertible backpack tote combines form and function with eco-consciousness, making this tote bag an awesome option for those who want to minimize their environmental impacts without sacrificing function and style. This bag is made from recycled materials and comes with a lifetime warranty.

This spacious bag features a large interior compartment that can easily fit a 15-inch laptop in addition to other items like a water bottle, clothing, and travel bottles for toiletries. The small exterior zipper pocket allows quick access to important travel items like your phone, wallet, and passport.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 11.8″ x 4.3″ x 17.3″
  • Material: Recycled Nylon & Eco-friendly Yarn
  • Capacity: 18 L
  • Weight: 1.48 pounds

Pros

  • It can be used as a tote or backpack
  • Secure zipper closure
  • Eco-friendly construction

Cons

  • Tote straps are a bit short
  • Pricey compared to the capacity

6. Briggs & Riley Baseline Traveler Tote Bag

Briggs & Riley Baseline Traveler Tote Bag
Briggs & Riley Baseline Traveler Tote Bag / Briggs & Riley

This Briggs & Riley tote is made of durable, water-resistant nylon and is ideal when traveling with children or stepping out in the rain. The elegant travel tote features several interior organizational pockets to keep all of your essentials in place while still having enough room for a few outfits.

With its multiple pockets and sleek leather trim, this B&R tote is the perfect bag for international travel. You can bring your everyday essentials with you on the go while also looking stylish. This highly durable travel tote will last you through many of your greatest adventures.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 13″ x 21″ x 7.5″
  • Material: Ballistic Nylon
  • Capacity: 33 L
  • Weight: 1.6 pounds

Pros

  • Comes in four gorgeous neutral colors
  • Spacious interior
  • Hideaway leather ID tag to protect your information while also keeping it handy
  • Durable and built to last
  • Briggs & Riley Lifetime Guarantee

Cons

  • It may not fit under an airplane seat when fully packed
  • The somewhat high price point

7. Kenneth Cole Reaction Chevron Business Tote

Kenneth Cole Reaction Chevron Business Tote
Kenneth Cole Reaction Chevron Business Tote / Amazon

If you are a jet-setter who goes from a meeting to dinner with a client, this tote will make the perfect carry-on bag. The exterior of this tote is made with tear-resistant polyester, so it’s great for frequent travelers who put a lot of miles on their travel gear.

The bag’s interior has a padded laptop sleeve and slots that allow you to stow your tablet or a laptop. It has additional pockets for your phone, cards, wallet, water bottle, and travel sunglasses.

The tote has handles that can be worn over the shoulder and comes with a removable crossbody strap. A trolley strap will also fit over most suitcase handles for easy carrying.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 17″ x 13″ x 5″
  • Material: Polyester Twill
  • Weight: 2.15 pounds

Pros

  • Constructed with tear-resistant fabric
  • Plenty of organizational features
  • Fits a large laptop
  • Matching luggage set available

Cons

  • Only fits a small-sized water bottle
  • Very slim

See Related: Portable Hair Dryers for Travel

8. Ecosusi Convertible Tote Bag

Ecosusi Convertible Tote Bag
Ecosusi Convertible Tote Bag / Amazon

When shopping for a convertible wheeled garment bag, consider the Ecosusi Convertible Tote Backpack. It’s affordable, functional, and stylish. The bag has comfortable straps and several internal organizational pockets.

The bag is light in weight and is made from water-resistant and highly durable material. This versatile tote can be used as a backpack, shoulder bag, or handbag. It is made from soft vegan leather and will add style and elegance to any airport ‘fit.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 11″ x 4.9″ x 14.7″
  • Material: Vegan Leather & Nylon
  • Weight: 2 pounds

Pros

  • It can be used as a backpack or tote
  • Includes a padded laptop compartment
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Small enough to only fit essentials
  • The narrow straps are a bit uncomfortable

9. Longchamp Le Pliage Tote

Women's LongChamp Le Pliage
Longchamp Le Pliage Tote / Amazon

The classic Longchamp Le Pliage tote is one of the brand’s most iconic bags and is fantastic for long travel days. It’s stylish and practical, and at a mere 12 ounces, it’s one of the lightest large tote bags on the market. In terms of a luxury bag, it’s quite affordable, making it a great long-term investment for traveling.

The bag is waterproof and will fold flat without wrinkles. It has a top zip with a logo and a snap flap closure. It also comes with an interior cell phone pocket with a water-resistant lining, which is uncommon for foldable travel tote bags.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 13″ x 13″ x 7.5″
  • Material: Nylon
  • Weight: 12 ounces

Pros

  • Heavy-duty and durable
  • Luxurious finishes
  • Large capacity

Cons

  • No feet or sturdy bottom to stand on its own
  • You can find similar items for a fraction of the price

10. Ban.do Getaway Weekender Bag

Rainbow Stripe Ban.do Getaway Weekender Bag
Ban.do Getaway Weekender Bag / Amazon

This fun and colorful travel tote is ready to hold all your essentials and be your next travel bestie! The Ban.do Getaway Weekender Bag is large enough to hold everything you need for a weekend girls’ trip but also folds up and comes with a detachable mesh pouch inside to store it when not in use.

The comfortable straps make it an ideal tote for those long travel days when you’ll be transiting from place to place. The main zipper pocket can easily fit enough clothes and accessories for a long weekend away, and the luggage sleeve makes it easy to transport through airports and train stations.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 17″ x 14″ x 4.5″
  • Material: Nylon
  • Weight: 1.21 pounds

Pros

  • Comfortable shoulder straps
  • Foldable and easy to store
  • Spacious main compartment

Cons

  • No internal or external pockets
  • Currently only available in one print

11. Tumi Business Tote

Tumi Business Tote
Tumi Business Tote / Amazon

When traveling for business, you need a business travel tote you can take straight from the plane to the meeting room. This TUMI luggage review tote is sleek, sophisticated, and sensible, making it one of the best women’s travel totes for business travelers. The durable material is easy to clean and will last through countless business trips.

The main compartment of this classic tote features a padded laptop sleeve that can easily accommodate a 16″ laptop. There’s also a front zip pocket and an easy-access phone pocket, as well as a tablet pocket, key leash, and other organizational pockets. One of the best features is Tumi Tracer – a complimentary bag recovery program that seeks to reunite customers with their lost luggage.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 11.25″ x 16.5″ x 6″
  • Material: Nylon & Genuine Leather
  • Weight: 1.89 pounds

Pros

  • Easy to clean and maintain
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Trolley sleeve
  • Tumi Tracer

Cons

  • High price point

See Related: Car Seat Travel Bags

12. Vera Bradley Microfiber Tote

Vera Bradley Microfiber Tote
Vera Bradley Microfiber Tote / Amazon

Regarding best travel accessories, Vera Bradley has been a go-to brand for generations of women. Their signature quilted padded fabric adds extra protection to all their products. Made from lightweight microfiber, the bag is machine washable and easy to care for.

It has six interior slip pockets that will keep everything well organized, from your lipgloss to your laptop. The exterior has a front slip pocket and a zip pocket. It can easily fit your phone, wallet, travel photography books, or other valuables that can be easily accessed but remain out of sight. 

Specs

  • Dimensions: 15″ x 14.5″ x 6″
  • Material: Microfiber (polyester)

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Machine washable
  • One of the most spacious bags for traveling
  • Signature Vera Bradley interior lining

Cons

  • Only two color options
  • No warranty offered

See Related: Best Travel Security Products

13. Bostanten Leather Tote Bag

Bostanten Leather Tote Bag
Bostanten Leather Tote Bag / Amazon

The Bostanten Leather Tote Bag is an elegant and affordable travel tote bag. The extra-long strap provides excellent built-in functionality, so you can wear it on one shoulder or as a travel duffel bag.

The internal structure has one main compartment and one removable pouch. It also comes in a few colors to fit different styles and preferences.

There is a zipper pouch with one pocket, two slip pockets, and an inner zipper pouch. The two side slip pockets and two magnetic buckle pockets on the exterior are great for easily accessing items like an ID or passport. 

Specs

  • Dimensions: 10.4″ x 5.9″ x 12.7″
  • Material: Genuine Leather
  • Weight: 1.85 pounds

Pros

  • Removable and interchangeable shoulder strap
  • Multiple organizational pockets
  • The removable pouch can keep all of your belongings in one place
  • Easy to clean and comes with a dust bag

Cons

  • It cannot fit most laptops
  • Only practical as a personal item if you have additional luggage

14. S-Zone Vintage Leather Tote

S-Zone Cowhide Leather Tote Bag (Brown)
S-Zone Vintage Leather Tote / Amazon

If you want a no-fuss and straightforward tote bag, check out the S-Zone Vintage Leather Tote. This sturdy leather bag has one main compartment and a removable zipper pouch. It is big enough to hold a 15-inch laptop as well as other essentials for travel, like a small toiletries bag.

This soft leather bag comes in seven neutral colors and features long double-layered shoulder straps that are comfortable and durable. The complementary canvas pouch is removable to give you even more room. With its classic silhouette and durability, the S-Zone Leather Tote is an excellent gift for the frequent traveler.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 12.6″ x 16.9″ x 13″
  • Material: Genuine Leather
  • Weight: 2.4 pounds

Pros

  • Easily goes from day use to travel use
  • Highly durable and long-lasting
  • Holds a large laptop

Cons

  • High maintenance
  • Strong leathery smell

15. RIMOWA Large Never Still Canvas Tote

RIMOWA Large Never Still Canvas Tote
RIMOWA Large Never Still Canvas Tote / RIMOWA

Combining elegance and class with purpose and functionality, RIMOWA’s large Never Still canvas tote is one of the best designer travel totes you’ll come across. It’s great for business travelers or those looking to customize their airport outfit aesthetic.

Fear not; the Never Still tote isn’t just about looks. The internal pocket is spacious and can accommodate all of your travel essentials. The exterior features a sleek trolley strap, two sets of handles, and a removable leather address tag. This isn’t going to fit all of your outfits for a weekend getaway, but it’s a great compliment to a carry-on suitcase.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 12.6″ x 16.3″ x 6.7″
  • Material: Canvas & Full Grain Leather
  • Capacity: 19 L
  • Weight: 2.65 pounds

Pros

  • Luxury finishes
  • Sleek design
  • Includes a two-year warranty

Cons

  • High luxury = high pricepoint
  • Limited space

16. BAGSMART Large Tote Bag

BAGSMART Large Tote Bag
BAGSMART Large Tote Bag / Amazon

BAGSMART is one of my favorite travel bag brands on Amazon. They carry some of the best carry-on bags for international travel that can fit even the strictest airline requirements.

When it comes to tote bags, BAGSMART doesn’t disappoint. Their large tote bag is cute and spacious and can easily go from an everyday bag to a travel companion.

This large tote features an oversized main compartment with several interior pockets to fit all the essentials, including clothes, accessories, a water bottle, and an umbrella. A padded laptop sleeve (that fits up to a 15.6″ laptop) protects electronics. The top extension strap is perfect for holding anything from a travel yoga mat to an extra jacket.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 19.3″ x 6.3″ x 13.8″
  • Material: Water-resistant soft polyester
  • Weight: 1.6 pounds

Pros

  • Oversized main compartment
  • Very affordable
  • Weather-resistant

Cons

  • The soft material does not allow the bag to stand on its own
  • It may be too large for some

17. Away The Packable Carryall

Away The Packable Carryall Tote bag
Away The Packable Carryall / Away

Whether you’re looking for a lightweight tote for everyday carry or an extra packable tote bag if you expect to do a lot of shopping on your next trip, The Packable Carryall from Away has you covered. This lightweight nylon tote is affordable and extra durable, making it the perfect companion for a weekend getaway.

As one of the lightest oversized totes, this lightweight bag offers a ton of space without compromising on durability. This is a fantastic bag option for clothes and accessories, but it may not be the best tote for electronics or other fragile items.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 15″ x 19.7″ x 9″
  • Material: Recycled Nylon
  • Capacity: 43 L
  • Weight: 8.8 ounces

Pros

  • Ultra-durable and weather resistant
  • Large capacity
  • Away’s 100-day trial virtually eliminates the risk of being stuck with a bag you don’t like

Cons

  • May not qualify as a personal item on all airlines (when at/close to full capacity)
  • Spacious interior but limited pockets
  • No padding for electronics

18. BEIS The East To West Tote

BEIS The East To West Tote bag
BEIS The East To West Tote / BEIS

We all know and love the BEIS Weekender Tote and the Mary Poppins-esque Mini Weekender, but the celebrity brand serves even more ways to be chic and practical while traveling. This medium-sized tote features fantastic interior pockets, including a phone and laptop sleeve, a water bottle pocket, and a handy key leash, so you’ll never lose your most important belongings.

On the exterior, you’ll find a small exterior pocket, a removable shoulder strap, and a convenient trolley sleeve to secure the bag onto your rolling suitcase. This is hands down one of the best tote bags for travel on the market today. It’s an awesome option as a personal item that will hold anything you need to access during your travels.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 17.1″ x 14.2″ x 9″
  • Material: Recycled Poly & Recycled Faux Leather
  • Capacity: 31 L
  • Weight: 2.2 pounds

Pros

  • Made from recycled materials
  • Metal feet on the bottom of the bag to reduce wear and tear
  • Multiple compartments for organization
  • Three handle/wearing options

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Limited color choices

19. Peak Design Everyday Tote

Peak Design Everyday Tote bag
Peak Design Everyday Tote / Peak Design

If you’re looking for the perfect spacious tote to hold and protect all your stuff, check out the best Peak Design products Everyday Tote. This modern travel tote was designed to protect and organize photo gear, but it also doubles as a functional everyday travel tote bag.

The bag features an extra-wide opening to access all of your gear quickly and with ease. It’s also water resistant to ensure all of your belongings stay safe. Other handy features include customizable dividers, a padded laptop sleeve, several interior and exterior pockets, and external carry straps (great for jackets or camera cases and tripods).

Specs

  • Dimensions: 16.5″ x 12.6″ x 6.7″
  • Material: 400D double poly-coated DWR-impregnated nylon canvas
  • Capacity: 15 L to 20 L
  • Weight: 1.81 pounds; 2.25 pounds with dividers

Pros

  • Weather-resistant
  • Removable dividers
  • Large opening with magnetic closure for extra space and security
  • Carry straps to keep your hands free
  • Very practical for organizing camera gear

Cons

  • Shoulder straps could be too short for some
  • Interior pockets are small

20. Puma Evercat Jane Tote

Black Puma Evercat Jane Tote
Puma Evercat Jane Tote / Amazon

This Puma tote is perfect for those looking for an affordable and practical travel bag. It’s machine washable and easily fits everything you’d need for a full day of travel. While it won’t replace an entire carry-on suitcase, it’s a great option if you need a reliable personal item.

The bag features two sturdy handles and an adjustable crossbody strap. The large main compartment also includes an internal zipper pocket to keep your most important items, such as keys and wallets, easily accessible.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 15″ x 13.5″ x 6″
  • Material: Polyester
  • Weight: 10 ounces

Pros

  • Machine washable
  • Durable fabric
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Too small to be used as a standalone carry-on tote

See Related: Essential Women’s Travel Accessories

Which travel totes work as a laptop or work bag?

Four of the picks here were built as work bags rather than adapted into one. The Knomo Grosvenor at 18.9 x 5.5 x 13 inches and the Tumi Voyageur at 11.25 x 16.5 x 6 inches both carry a padded laptop compartment. The Kenneth Cole Reaction Chevron and the Timbuk2 Vapor add a trolley sleeve, the pass-through strap on the back panel that slides over a suitcase handle so the tote rides the bag instead of your shoulder.

ToteListed size (in)WeightFits a full-size laptop
Knomo Grosvenor Laptop Tote18.9 x 5.5 x 131.48 lbsYes – padded compartment
Tumi Voyageur Business Tote11.25 x 16.5 x 61.85 lbsYes – padded compartment
Kenneth Cole Reaction Chevron17 x 13 x 52 lbsYes
Timbuk2 Vapor Convertible11.8 x 4.3 x 17.31.6 lbsYes – converts to a backpack
Peak Design Everyday Tote16.5 x 12.6 x 6.7Yes – dividers included
BAGSMART Large Tote Bag19.3 x 6.3 x 13.82.2 lbsYes
Michael Kors Jet Set Tote16 x 10 x 4.52.07 lbsNo – tablet only
Coach Town Tote12.25 x 12.5 x 4.751.7 lbsNo
Dimensions and weights as listed by each manufacturer.

Weight matters more than it looks on a spec sheet. The gap between the RIMOWA canvas tote at 8.8 ounces and the Bostanten leather tote at 2.65 pounds is nearly two and a half pounds before you put anything inside, and on a long connection through a large terminal you feel every ounce of it on one shoulder. Leather looks better and costs you that difference on every walk to the gate.

Material also decides how a tote ages. Coated canvas and ballistic nylon shrug off a wet jetway; untreated leather stains. If you want the durability argument in more depth, our breakdown of luggage shell materials covers the same trade-off on the hardside end.

Things to Consider When Buying a Travel Tote Bag

  • Size: Depending on your length of trip and where you’re going, you may want a best travel purses or something that only needs to fit the essentials. If you’re on a budget, stick to something larger to use it for most occasions.
  • Organization: Make sure your bag includes the right interior pockets and other organizational features. I like having multiple compartments and exterior pockets in my travel tote, but you may want a more roomy interior instead of more pockets.
  • Durability > Good price: Getting a good deal on a travel bag doesn’t always work out to be cheaper. Buying and replacing cheap bags often comes out to be more expensive in the long run. Consider investing in tote bags for travel made of durable materials that will stand the test of time.
  • Weight: The size and material of the tote bag add to its overall weight when filled. Consider a lightweight tote made of durable travel-grade materials for the best bang for your buck.
  • Care: Wash your tote regularly, either by hand or in a washing machine (if your bag allows it). Store it out of direct sunlight when not in use.

FAQs

What is the ideal size for a travel tote bag?

For a bag that doubles as your personal item, stay at or under 18 x 14 x 8 inches, which is the under-seat allowance at American and Delta. If you fly United, the limit drops to 17 x 10 x 9 inches. The Michael Kors Jet Set at 16 x 10 x 4.5 inches is the only tote in this guide that clears American, Delta, United, and Southwest.

What is the average price range for a high-quality travel tote bag?

Tote bags run from about $20 to well over $1,000. A high-quality travel tote usually lands between $70 and $200, and above that you are mostly paying for the brand and the leather rather than for capacity or organisation.

What are some of the best places to buy a travel tote bag?

Amazon carries the widest range of affordable travel totes. Our other go-to brands at ViaTravelers are BEIS, Lo & Sons, Briggs & Riley, and Peak Design.

Can a travel tote count as a carry-on instead of a personal item?

Yes, if it is large enough. Bags like the Away Packable Carryall at 15 x 19.7 x 9 inches and the Briggs & Riley Baseline Traveler at 13 x 21 x 7.5 inches exceed every US under-seat allowance, so they occupy your overhead carry-on slot rather than the space under the seat in front of you.

Which travel totes have a trolley sleeve?

A trolley sleeve is a pass-through strap on the back of the bag that slides over a suitcase handle. Among the picks here, the Kenneth Cole Reaction Chevron and the Timbuk2 Vapor Convertible both include one, which keeps the tote off your shoulder while you move through the terminal.

What is the lightest travel tote in this guide?

The RIMOWA Never Still canvas tote at 8.8 ounces, followed by the BEIS East To West Tote at 10 ounces and the Ecosusi Convertible at 12 ounces. The heaviest is the Bostanten leather tote at 2.65 pounds, a difference of roughly two and a half pounds before anything goes inside.

Is a tote or a backpack better as a personal item?

A tote is faster to reach into at a seat and looks right in a work setting; a backpack distributes weight across both shoulders and is easier to carry through a long terminal. Convertible bags like the Timbuk2 Vapor split the difference by switching between the two.

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