How to Choose the Right Tote Bag

Your Guide to buying the best Totes

Overview

Tote bags are a popular and versatile choice for carrying your daily items. Whether you’re looking for a stylish bag to bring to work or a sturdy bag for outdoor activities, there are many different types of totes available. This buying guide will provide you with the information you need to find the right tote for your needs, from the size and material to the features and durability. With our tips, you’ll be able to choose the tote that will serve you best, so you can go about your day with confidence.

Key features

  1. Style – Totes come in a variety of styles, including satchels, shoulder bags, backpacks, and even handbags. Consider the intended use of the Tote and choose a style that best suits your needs.
  2. Size – Consider the size of the Tote. It should be large enough to fit all of the items you plan to carry, but not too bulky or heavy.
  3. Material – Different Totes are made from different materials. Choose a material that is durable and will last, such as leather, canvas, or nylon.
  4. Features – Look for features such as pockets, straps, handles, and compartments that can make your Tote more convenient and functional.
  5. Price – Finally, consider the price of the Tote. Make sure that the quality and features of the Tote match the price you are willing to pay.

See the most popular Totes on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Durability: Totes are made of high-quality material that is designed to withstand heavy use and weather conditions.
  • Variety: Totes come in a wide variety of styles, colors, and sizes so they can fit any individual's needs.
  • Functionality: Totes are designed to carry a variety of items, from personal items to groceries.
  • Portability: Totes are lightweight and highly portable, making them easy to transport from place to place.
  • Affordability: Totes are relatively inexpensive compared to other types of bags and are often sold in bulk.

Cons

  • Price: Totes are typically more expensive than other types of handbags, so budget should be taken into consideration.
  • Size: Totes do not usually have a lot of compartments, and the size of the bag may not be able to accommodate larger items.
  • Durability: Totes can easily become worn down with regular use and may need to be replaced more often than other bags.

Best alternatives

  1. Backpacks - A larger, usually two-strapped bag that hangs from the shoulder and back, allowing for more space and larger items to be carried.
  2. Crossbody Bags - A smaller bag that is worn over one shoulder and across the body, allowing for hands-free convenience.
  3. Duffle Bags - A large cylindrical bag, typically made of cloth, with a zipper closure and two handles.
  4. Gym Bags - A small bag used to store personal items for the gym, usually with a drawstring closure and a single strap.
  5. Hobos - A large bag, usually made of slouchy leather, with a single strap and crescent-shaped body.
  6. Messenger Bags - A medium-sized bag, usually with a wide strap, that sits across the body for hands-free convenience.
  7. Satchels - A large bag, usually with two handles and a flap closure, that is inspired by a briefcase.
  8. Shoulder Bags - A large bag, usually with two handles, that is worn over the shoulder.
  9. Totes - A large bag, usually with two handles, that is used for carrying items.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Umbrella Tote Bag - a tote bag with an integrated umbrella, designed to carry both items without taking up too much space
  • Insulated Shopping Tote - a tote bag designed to keep food and drinks cold or hot while shopping
  • Beach Tote - a large tote made from waterproof material, designed for carrying items to the beach
  • Laptop Tote - a tote designed to transport a laptop and other electronics safely and securely
  • Picnic Tote - a large tote bag designed to carry a variety of items for a picnic
  • Shoulder Tote - a tote with straps designed to be carried over a shoulder for easy carrying
  • Grocery Tote - a tote bag designed to carry heavier items, such as groceries, with ease

Common questions

  1. What materials can Totess be made of?
    Totes can be made from a variety of materials, such as leather, canvas, nylon, straw, and more.
  2. What sizes are available?
    Totes are typically available in a standard size, but can also be found in smaller and larger sizes depending on the type.
  3. Do Totes come with any other features?
    Totes usually come with adjustable straps, interior pockets and/or compartments, and other features, depending on the type.
  4. Are there any safety or durability features?
    Totes may have additional features such as reinforced stitching, waterproofing, and other features to improve safety and durability.
  5. How long do Totes last?
    The general lifespan of a tote bag depends on the material used and how it is cared for. Generally, a well-made tote can last for several years.

Trivia

A funny fact about Totes is that their iconic totes umbrella has been featured in multiple movies. In the 2002 movie "My Big Fat Greek Wedding", Ian Miller (John Corbett) is seen carrying a Totes umbrella. In the 2009 movie "17 Again", Ned Gold (Zac Efron) is seen carrying a Totes umbrella. Finally, in the 2010 movie "Valentine's Day", Edgar Foster (Ashton Kutcher) is seen carrying a Totes umbrella. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.