22 Best Tote Bags for Plane Trips, Souvenir Shopping, and Beach Days

There are a lot of MZ Wallace fans in the Traveler office—we can't get enough of the brand's quilted bags. One of our favorites is the Metro tote, which is arguably the chicest bag you'll find in a lightweight nylon. It's nice and roomy, meaning you can fit all your essentials including a laptop inside, plus it has a smart zipper along the top so your belongings won't fall out in the overhead bin or backseat. For the most type A among us, there are six interior pockets, plus a phone pocket and key ring strap to stay organized. Best of all, the bag—which is offered in over a dozen colors and prints, like magnet grey and apple red—can fold up into a little pouch when you don't need it.

Anyone who grew up on the East Coast knows the Boat and Tote—it's an L.L. Bean classic that's been around for decades. (Some have even described it as more of a household object than a bag, noting how much of a mainstay its become, and not just with the boat-loving crowd it was initially geared toward.) And what's not to like? These totes are spacious, the design is classic, and they start at $25, maxing out at $40, depending on which size you go for. The open-top option is great for day trips when you might have beach towels poking out the top, but the zip-top version will hold up best on longer hauls (or if you're traveling with kids who might be prone to tipping the whole thing over). This tote comes in a natural canvas color, with the option to monogram and customize the color on the straps.

For straightforward, luxurious leather pieces—all of which you can customize with monogramming and a hearty selection of color options—Leatherology is the place to go. Though the brand makes several larger totes (including zippered options), the vertical bag is a standout. The full-grain leather tote is incredibly versatile so you can use it from day to night. Plus, it's perfect for those who want something more compact: It'll fit your laptop, but maybe not your reusable water bottle, umbrella, and stack of in-flight reading materials.

Baggu owns the tote game: Whether you're looking for a classic canvas bag or a nylon pick for your groceries, they've got it all. The spacious Cloud bag is a great tote to travel with, though, because it's lightweight, machine washable, and comes in cool colors like lentil and honey leopard. Even better, the packable bag is just over $50; but, trust us, it'll hold up trip after trip, whether you're using it as a personal item or an overnighter.

Sporty and spacious, this do-it-all tote from Lululemon features a cinchable opening and snap closure. There's both an interior pocket and an exterior one, and the fabric is water-resistant. The oversized tote is just what you need for an overnight getaway. Shop it in black or pastel pink.

This gorgeous tote is made of pebbled Italian leather—the kind you just want to run your hand over again and again. It’s got several compartments and pockets, snaps closed, and has lateral ties for additional security. It comes in five core colors, plus rotating seasonal hues. In addition to choosing your color, you can also choose between two sizes so you get the bag that best suits your needs. As for the name, the tote is called the “system” tote because it's made to pair with Cuyana's add-on accessories, including interior flap bags, additional inserts, and a laptop sleeve. These add-on components can be used interchangeably with other Cuyana bags, including satchels, crossbodies, and more.

If you ask us, this reversible pebbled leather tote is a travel must-have. You get two totes in one, which saves valuable packing space. Whether you're sporting an all-black ensemble or going for something that will look better with cognac accessories, this bag can do both. Slightly slouchy, well-made, and spacious, buying this bag is a no-brainer. 

Looking for an investment tote to splurge on? We highly recommend this leather tote from Gucci. The subdued shades of the brand's signature hues create a statement piece that will last season after season. It’s got a roomy interior which is lined with a suede-like microfiber, a duo of leather handles, and comes with a matching pouch for storing smaller items. 

This sleek, sophisticated tote bag has plenty of room, with a deep, wide interior and side gussets that give you even more interior space. The bottom of the bag is outfitted with metal feet, allowing the bag to stand on its own and keep the fine leather surface protected. Want to customize it? Leatherology will monogram the bag, if you like. Seen here in camel, the classic tote is also available in versatile neutrals including dawn, navy blue, and black onyx. 

Ace your courtside style with this large canvas tote bag, featuring an outer pocket designed for a tennis racket. Inside, you’ll find both a zip and slip pocket, twill lining, and magnetic closure. Pair with your favorite white sneakers and a tennis skirt and you’re Wimbledon ready.

As with all Rothy's products, this tote is made out of sustainable materials (in this case, recycled water bottles and marine plastic). The result is a durable, high-quality knit that is not only eco-friendly, but also stylish. The shoulder tote has a zipper closure, interior zip pocket, and easily fits a 15” laptop, along with all your other in-flight essentials. Seen here in midnight navy, the bag is available in four other neutral colorways, as well as limited edition seasonal hues. 

This extra-large tote is big enough to house all your daily essentials and then some. The handmade bag features a cotton lining, one zipped pocket, and one wall pocket, which makes it easy to organize your belongings within. The bag, which is handmade in Bangladesh, is Fair Trade-Certified, too.

Cuyana's ethos centers on owning fewer, more high quality things, and this pebbled leather bag is the perfect example of the only tote you'll ever need. It's made of beautiful Italian leather with a microsuede interior, and comes in a handful of neutrals that'll go with everything. The brand makes both a slouchy and structured version of the classic tote, but we love the latter for easy access on the go: It holds its shape enough for when you're fishing for your passport at the check-in counter, but is still soft and malleable when you need it to be. And though the bag comes with just one interior pocket, the brand sells an organization insert that has four pockets, and will ensure you can always find what you need, right when you need it.

This luxe drawstring tote features Italian-made calfskin suede in a stunning basket weave. The neutral, wear-with-everything tan lends the bag so much versatility. Whether you’re headed to brunch, a day of sightseeing, or a sunset cruise, this bag has you covered. 

Say hello to your new business trip tote. This elegant bag is made of leather with a fully lined interior. There are two open compartments and one zip compartment. And if you're looking for both function and form, know that the contrasting luggage tag is an eye-catching addition. Shop the tote in black, tan, gray heron, calendula, shell pink, and brilliant red. (And, if you prefer a more petite bag, the Perry tote comes in a smaller version, as well.)

Some of the best tote bags serve as a solid backup when you don't want to use your everyday purse or backpack. This minimalist leather and nylon tote from Longchamp comes in several neutral colors. Since it's water-resistant, it's a great bag to bring along if you suspect inclement weather. But the best part about this bag? You can fold it up into a tiny square and snap it closed, making it an easy choice to toss into your checked luggage.

Every bag from Béis is designed with frequent travelers in mind, and this weekend tote is no exception. It's made from durable, water-resistant canvas and there's a wire frame in the lining that makes for easy packing. Inside, you'll find slip pockets, a zippered pocket, and a laptop sleeve. In the zippered bottom compartment, you can neatly tuck away a pair of shoes so they won't mingle with the other items in the top of your weekender. Last but not least, there's a trolley sleeve so you can slip this bag right onto your luggage. Béis really thought of everything.

This capacious canvas tote bag folds up with ease, which is essential when you're packing it up for a trip. The interior has three storage compartments, and a full zipper to secure all your odds and ends. It's plenty big enough for a laptop, so you can also use it as a work tote if you like. Shop the bag in black, beige, blue shadow, slate green, and sweet pea. 

Madewell's classic leather tote bag is one of the brand's bestsellers—and it's easy to see why. The thin but sturdy body is made of leather with a lightly waxed finish, so the bag can both fold beneath the seat in front of you and stand up on its own. It has top handles as well as an adjustable shoulder strap. This tote doesn't have a zip closure along the top, but there is an inner pocket perfect for storing valuables (and the large outer pocket is perfect for items you want to take in and out often, like sunglasses). The bag comes in several sizes, but we love how the medium easily converts from a work bag (most laptops can fit inside) to a casual purse you can use every day.

This lightweight, airy beach tote is made with woven paper straw and features bamboo-inspired handles. It's perfect for any tropical vacation or trip to the shore. Seen here in cream, the bag is also available in refreshing shades like pink, periwinkle, and mint. 

Whether you're headed to the south of France for a beach trip or are on a long weekend in New York City, a reusable lightweight tote is sure to come in handy. We love this eco-friendly, nylon pick from Kate Spade (it rolls up easily and self-ties neatly). Whether you end up purchasing fruit in the local market, want to avoid using a plastic bag for souvenirs, or need a cute beach bag, these totes always get the job done—and they look good doing it. 

This sleek canvas tote is a stunner, thanks to the gold hardware and leather trim. It's plenty big enough for the everyday essentials—phone, wallet, keys, mask—plus a lightweight jacket and Hydro Flask. There are four interior pockets tucked inside for easy organization; seen here in gold and black, this designer tote bag is also available in off-white with tan trimming.