When embarking on a new adventure, selecting the perfect travel tote can be a daunting task – especially when shopping online. The uncertainty of what features are essential and how they will meet your specific needs can be overwhelming. However, with some careful consideration and guidance, you’ll be well-equipped to find the ideal tote for your travels.
In order to make an informed decision, it’s crucial to consider a range of factors, including size, weight, material, zipper quality, lining material, convenience, security, and durability. By taking the time to weigh these elements against your own needs, you’ll be able to narrow down your options and find the perfect travel tote for you.
To help streamline this process, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 best travel totes available on the market today.
These recommendations cater to a variety of preferences and budgets, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a high-end option or a more affordable choice, our expertly curated selection has got you covered.
In this guide, we’ll not only highlight the top travel totes but also provide valuable insights on how to approach your search and what key features to look out for.
What to Consider in a Travel Tote
When selecting the perfect tote bag for your travels, several key elements come into play. From the type of trip to the specific items you plan to carry, every consideration counts. As we delve into our product reviews, you can rest assured that each factor will be carefully examined to ensure you find the ideal companion for your adventure.
Size
When selecting a bag, the dimensions play a crucial role. A bag that’s too compact won’t accommodate all your necessities, whereas one that’s excessively spacious might not fit seamlessly into storage spaces. The sweet spot lies in finding a bag with proportions that strike a perfect balance between capacity and portability.
Weight
A crucial aspect to consider when selecting a travel bag is its unladen weight, which refers to how much the bag weighs by itself when empty. This factor takes on significant importance if you’re someone who tends to pack heavily and faces strict weight limits for your luggage. By knowing the weight of the bag, you can plan accordingly and ensure that you stay within the allowed limit without having to make last-minute adjustments or sacrifices.
Bag Material
The exterior material of a bag holds significant importance in evaluating its overall durability. As we delve deeper into each product’s features, you’ll find that the type of material used plays a crucial role in determining how well it withstands daily wear and tear. We’ll provide a comprehensive breakdown of each material’s characteristics and performance in our subsequent ‘Durability’ section.
Zipper Material
When it comes to the material used for zippers, there are two primary options: metal and plastic. While both have their advantages and disadvantages, a deeper exploration of each can help you make an informed decision. For more detailed information on the pros and cons of metal and plastic zipper materials, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide.
Lining Material
The interior composition of a bag can provide valuable insights into its cleaning ease. The materials used to construct the inside of the bag may influence its maintenance requirements. For instance, bags with smooth, synthetic interiors might be simpler to clean than those with intricate stitching or textured fabrics.
Convenience
When evaluating a bag’s performance, it’s crucial to consider its portability and travel-friendly features. This aspect of the review delves into how seamlessly the bag can be integrated into your travels, highlighting the design elements that facilitate effortless transportation.
Security
When it comes to security features, manufacturers often employ a wide range of solutions, from basic internal storage compartments like zippered pockets to cutting-edge technologies such as slash-proof fabrics. In this section, we’ll delve into the various security features found in each product, highlighting their unique characteristics and advantages.
Durability
When evaluating the top-notch travel bags, it’s crucial to consider not only their materials and hardware but also their durability features. With this in mind, you’re now prepared to explore the market’s finest offerings and discover the perfect tote for your travels.
Top 10 Best Travel Totes 2024
Best Overall Tote: BAOSHA Weekender Bag
The BAOSHA Weekender Bag is a traveler’s best friend, offering a unique combination of practicality and style. Its spacious interior features a separate compartment for shoes, making it perfect for plane travel or as a weekend bag. Weighing in at 2 pounds, this tote may be small but packs a punch. The exterior is made from a durable canvas and faux leather blend, while the interior lining is crafted from polyester. What sets this bag apart is its thoughtful design features.
A dedicated slot allows it to be securely attached to a rolling suitcase handle, making it an excellent choice for longer trips. Alternatively, an optional crossbody strap provides added convenience for carrying the bag without handles. Additionally, a zippered external pocket keeps essential items like boarding passes easily accessible. For added security, the bag features a zippered internal pocket that keeps valuables out of sight and reach.
The bright, colorful printed designs make it easy to spot in an overhead compartment. While some users have reported issues with the metal clips on the shoulder strap, the manufacturer is quick to respond with replacements if needed. With its sturdy construction, metal feet on the bottom, and overall durability, this bag has earned a reputation for being reliable and long-lasting.
Best Premium Tote: BLUBOON Weekender
The BLUBOON Weekender’s winning combination of style and practicality stems from its thoughtful design features. The bag boasts an impressive array of pockets, compartments, and straps that make it a joy to use. From a functional standpoint, the Weekender shines with its shoe compartment capable of holding two pairs, keeping them separate from the rest of your clothes while packing.
The three external pockets are perfect for stashing small items like tickets or travel documents, making them easy to find when you need them. A crossbody strap offers added convenience for carrying the bag. Another clever feature is the suitcase handle sleeve, which allows for effortless transportation.
However, it’s worth noting that the quality of this sleeve can vary depending on the color chosen – some colors offer a sturdy trolley sleeve, while others provide a thinner strap that may not provide the same level of support. The Weekender also prioritizes security with its large zippered pocket inside the bag, providing a safe and accessible space for your valuables. And with the bag available in numerous colors and prints, it’s easy to spot if misplaced.
In terms of durability, the BLUBOON Weekender boasts metal feet that prevent scuffs and scratches when placed directly on the ground. While some users have reported issues with zippers breaking easily, the manufacturer is quick to replace them if notified. Overall, the pros of this bag far outweigh the cons. With its generous array of pockets, shoe compartment, trolley sleeve, and metal feet, the Weekender is a travel companion that’s hard to beat.
Best Budget Tote: Ulgoo Travel Tote
The Ulgoo Travel Tote is a reliable and practical companion for any trip, exceling in its durability and size. At 16 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 8 inches tall, it’s the perfect fit under an airplane seat, even when packed to capacity. The sturdy canvas and faux leather exterior, combined with a thick and reliable trolley sleeve, make it easy to navigate airport terminals without worrying about your bag getting lost or damaged.
When not attached to a suitcase, the trolley sleeve doubles as a spacious external pocket, ideal for storing frequently used items. The tote also features an optional crossbody strap, providing added convenience when traveling without checked luggage. To keep valuables safe, an internal zipped pocket provides an added layer of security.
While there are some limitations, such as the lack of waterproofing and limited pocket space, the Ulgoo Travel Tote’s many strengths make it a worthwhile investment for any traveler.
Best Carry-on Tote: Oflamn Duffel Bag
The Oflamn Duffel Bag offers exceptional packing capacity and comfort, making it an excellent choice for travelers. One of its standout features is the complimentary matching toiletries bag that comes with it. The bag itself measures 21″ x 12.9″ x 7.4″, weighing in at 1.3 pounds, and is constructed from high-quality polyester. With a trolley slot and optional crossbody strap, navigating airports and carrying your belongings becomes effortless.
A separate shoe compartment keeps your footwear clean, while an internal zippered pocket provides added security for your valuables. Although the color options may be limited, the bag’s durability shines through with metal feet on the bottom and a sturdy polyester material that resists tears. However, users should exercise caution when packing to avoid putting too much strain on the plastic zipper, which could lead to breakage.
Best Duffel Bag: Jadyn Large Duffel/Weekender Bag
The Jadyn Duffel Bag is a standout choice for travelers due to its impressive durability and generous packing space. The bag’s padded crossbody strap, adjustable for comfort, makes it easy to carry while on the go. Inside, three mesh pockets and one zippered pocket keep belongings organized. On the outside, a dedicated shoe compartment adds convenience, although the shoes do take up some room within the main pack. A separate phone pocket provides an external storage option.
In terms of practicality, the Jadyn Duffel Bag excels in its ability to hold multiple outfits and essentials comfortably. Its sturdy construction ensures it will withstand frequent use and handling. The bag’s hardware is particularly noteworthy for its strength, with clips and zippers that won’t easily break. While the crossbody strap can be finicky to attach and detach, this minor drawback is largely offset by the bag’s numerous benefits.
Overall, the Jadyn Duffel Bag’s strengths include:* Unparalleled durability* Roomy packing capacity* Padded, adjustable crossbody strap* Separate shoe compartmentNotable drawbacks include:* Difficulty attaching/detaching the crossbody strap* Lack of a zippered external pocket
Best Color Variety: CAMTOP Travel Bag
Most Stylish Tote: CHICECO Travel Bag
The CHICECO Travel Bag is a versatile and stylish companion for any traveler, offering the perfect blend of form and function. Its streamlined design, measuring 16.5” x 7.5” x 12.8”, makes it ideal for use as an airplane personal item or daily purse. The bag’s lightweight construction, weighing in at just 2 pounds, is a major plus, allowing you to pack everything you need without feeling weighed down.
While the CHICECO Travel Bag may not have a crossbody strap or trolley sleeve, its adjustable straps can be worn over your shoulder, providing a comfortable and secure carry option. A key tether inside one of the internal pockets ensures that your keys are always within easy reach, eliminating the need for tedious searching through the bag. In terms of security, the CHICECO Travel Bag features a zippered compartment to keep your belongings safe from prying eyes.
The solid neutral colors it comes in may make it harder to spot the bag if you’re looking for something more easily visible – but this also means it’s less likely to draw attention to yourself. The durability of the bag is truly impressive, with weatherproof nylon and a metal zipper providing added protection against the elements.
While there are no additional pockets beyond the one internal compartment, the CHICECO Travel Bag still manages to strike the right balance between style and practicality.
Best Anti-Theft Tote: Travelon Anti-Theft Tote
Travelon’s Anti-Theft Tote is a standout for its exceptional security features, far surpassing any other product we’ve reviewed. This tote boasts an impressive array of security measures that provide unparalleled peace of mind during travel.
Key highlights include:A sturdy canvas exterior, paired with robust plastic zippers and unlisted lining materialInternal zippered pockets and slip pockets to keep belongings organizedA tethered key clip with LED light for easy retrieval in the main pocketAn external pocket with locking zipper for secure storageOne notable absence is a trolley slot, which may be a drawback for some. However, this bag makes up for it with its comprehensive security features.
The exterior pocket’s locking zipper is just one of many security measures that have earned this tote top marks. The internal zippered pocket provides an additional layer of protection for valuables, while the slash-proof straps and wiring provide reassurance against attempted theft or tampering. While the hardware on this tote is incredibly strong, its durability is somewhat compromised by the risk of seams ripping easily, exposing the slash-proof wiring within.
Most Organized Tote: Lily & Drew Weekender
The Lily & Drew Weekender stands out for its abundance of practical pockets. This tote boasts a large zippered pocket, as well as five mesh non-zip pockets, allowing you to keep your essentials within easy reach. Measuring 16” x 6.5” x 13”, it’s surprisingly spacious despite its reasonable size, making it an excellent choice for carrying as a personal item on a flight. The bag comes in a variety of solid colors and prints.
One of the standout features is the external pockets, which include a front zippered pocket with two sleeves and a key anchor, plus a non-zip quick access pocket and two side pockets for water bottles. Additionally, there’s a slot for attaching a suitcase handle, which can double as a pocket when not in use. While the bag isn’t the most comfortable to carry, the padding on the shoulder strap could be improved. On the positive side, the padded laptop compartment (accommodating 15.
6” laptops and smaller) provides a secure space for your valuables. The bag’s material is sturdy and weather-resistant, protecting your belongings from the elements. However, the zipper does have small teeth, which can make it less durable when the bag is fully loaded. This is something to consider when choosing a tote with a sturdy zipper, such as the CAMTOP Travel Bag.
Best Wheeled Tote: Kenneth Cole Runway Tote
We’re big fans of the Kenneth Cole Runway Tote because it’s a stylish and practical bag that makes traveling easy. Its distinctive feature is its set of wheels, which makes it simple to maneuver through airports or train stations. The bag itself has a sleek design that can hold laptops up to 17 inches in size – and if you turn it sideways, it will even fit under an airplane seat. Inside, there’s a business organizer pocket with multiple compartments for pens, cards, and other small items.
The tote is available in a limited color palette, all of which are solid colors without any prints. If you’re looking to save some money, you can also opt for the bag without the wheels. Additionally, this bag has a trolley handle that extends 30 inches, allowing you to roll it rather than carrying it on your shoulder.
There’s also a trolley sleeve if you need to attach another bag, although it’s worth noting that the strap is quite thin and may cause the attached bag to swing around while walking. On the outside, the Kenneth Cole Runway Tote has one zippered pocket and two non-zippered pockets for easy access. There’s also a removable accessory pouch with a key ring that can be secured inside the bag. While it’s not an extremely light bag due to its hardware, it’s not overly bulky either.
In terms of security, this tote boasts RFID blocking technology, which provides an extra layer of protection for your passport and credit card information. Inside, there are also padded laptop and tablet pockets that keep your devices safe from scratches or damage. The bag itself is very durable and sturdy, making it suitable for everyday use as a work bag. The external pockets have metal zippers, which can withstand more wear and tear than plastic ones.
One thing to note is that the accents on the bag are suede, so they shouldn’t be exposed to water without risking damage. Overall, this tote offers a great combination of style, functionality, and security.
Guide for Buying the Best Travel Tote
Plans for Use
Before filling your new tote with goodies, take a moment to consider its intended purpose. Jot down what you plan to store in the bag – this might help you envision the perfect size and features for your needs. If you’re looking to replace an old travel companion, reflect on what worked well about it and what you’d like to improve upon.
Don’t forget to double-check the dimensions of your laptop if you plan on bringing it along; not all travel bags are created equal when it comes to accommodating different laptop sizes. Additionally, think about whether you want a tote that will make a statement – perhaps in a bold color or eye-catching pattern – or one that blends seamlessly into the background. This consideration can help you narrow down your options and find the perfect tote for your travels.
Bag Types
While travel totes come in various shapes and sizes, it’s essential to understand their unique characteristics to choose the right one for your needs. For instance, traditional tote bags lack a crossbody strap and tend to have limited pockets, making items less accessible. In contrast, weekender bags are designed to carry a weekend’s worth of clothes, falling somewhere between a tote and a duffel bag in terms of size.
Duffel bags, characterized by their round sides and large capacity, are ideal as carry-ons or for doing it all with smaller options like the Jadyn Duffel Bag. Finally, rolling bags feature handles and wheels, allowing you to keep the weight off your body completely while providing ample space. The Kenneth Cole Runway Tote is a great example of this type of bag.
Materials
When it comes to selecting the perfect bag, one of the primary considerations should be the material itself. Let’s delve into the differences between various fabrics. Split LeatherSplit leather, also known as suede, boasts a soft and supple texture, making it an excellent choice for accent pieces. While it shares similar strength with traditional leather, it lacks waterproofing capabilities altogether.
Its durability is comparable to leather, but it requires careful maintenance to preserve its appearance. Synthetic LeatherSynthetic leather, often referred to as faux leather or pleather, is a plastic imitation of genuine leather. Typically found on bag accents, it offers weatherproofing properties but falls short in terms of overall durability compared to other fabrics. Synthetic leather is occasionally marketed as an eco-friendly alternative to leather; however, this claim isn’t always valid.
CanvasCanvas, a sturdy cotton fabric, is renowned for its exceptional strength and durability. While unblended canvas may not be waterproof, it can be treated with a canvas wax to achieve the desired level of water resistance. For those seeking a reliable and long-lasting material, canvas is an excellent option. LeatherLeather is another highly durable material, but full-leather bags often tend to be heavy and limited in size, making them less practical for travel totes.
However, if real leather is a priority, there are high-quality options available, such as this one. NylonNylon, a relatively new synthetic fabric, strikes an impressive balance between robustness and weatherproofing capabilities. Its lightweight construction also makes it easy to carry. PolyesterPolyester, another newer fabric, boasts even greater waterproofing properties than nylon and is incredibly durable, which is why many bags are crafted from polyester or polyester blends.
Additionally, polyester is notoriously resistant to stains.
Features to Consider
When selecting a travel bag, the type of traveling and what you’re looking for in a bag will directly impact the features that matter most. While some overlap exists, we’ve found that features generally fall into three categories: durability, convenience, and security. Durability features prioritize longevity, convenience features focus on ease of use, and security features aim to protect both you and your belongings from potential threats.
In terms of durability, the material used is a crucial factor. Waterproofing is particularly important, as is the overall strength of the material. For more information on tote materials, please consult our comprehensive guide.
Metal feet are another popular durability feature that prevents wear and tear to the bottom panel while also allowing the bag to stand upright without toppling over.
Convenience features include external pockets that provide easy access to essential items.
A bottle holder on the side keeps your beverage within reach, shoe compartments keep shoes separate from clothing, and a trolley slot simplifies transportation by allowing you to carry it with ease.
Crossbody straps distribute the weight of the bag more evenly, making it more comfortable to wear. Key tethers attached to internal zippers, such as those found on the CHICECO Travel Bag, prevent keys from becoming lost at the bottom of your bag.
Security features include internal zippered compartments that hinder pickpockets’ access. All bags we’ve listed feature at least one such compartment.
Higher-tech security solutions like RFID-blocking pockets protect sensitive information on passports and credit cards. Slash-proof material, seen in the Travelon Anti-Theft Tote, ensures your bag remains secure even if unfortunate events occur.
If you plan to store your bag in an overhead compartment or cargo area, a distinct coloring or print can help prevent mistaken identity. However, if you intend to use the bag as a regular accessory on-the-go, avoid loud prints that may draw unwanted attention.
Plastic vs. Metal Zipper
Metal zippers are typically less pliable than their plastic counterparts, resulting in a slightly stiffer glide when opening and closing. However, the difference is largely anecdotal, with no concrete evidence suggesting that metal zippers outperform plastic ones. While they may be more resistant to damage from wear and tear, horizontal pressure can still cause metal zippers to malfunction just as easily as their plastic counterparts.
In fact, overstuffing a bag can be detrimental not only to the zipper itself but also to the seams surrounding it. If you find yourself consistently packing your bag to capacity, it may be more practical to opt for a larger size that provides greater breathing room.
Travel Tote Storage Tips
To maintain the integrity of your purse, consider utilizing a purse support to prevent creases and loss of shape. Additionally, tissue paper can serve as a reliable alternative. Furthermore, investing in a dust cover, such as the MISSLO option mentioned above, will not only keep your bag clean but also safeguard it against moth infestations, thereby extending its lifespan.
Ready for Take-off: Final Thoughts
When embarking on a weekend getaway or a more extensive adventure, a reliable travel tote can significantly simplify your journey. With the wide range of modern luggage options boasting various features and designs, selecting one that meets your specific requirements can be an exciting way to transition into vacation mode. The right travel bag can make all the difference in ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable trip.
