The best travel totes are versatile and roomy, allowing you to sling essentials over your shoulder and leave your hands free for your phone, passport or a cup of coffee. From structured leather carry-alls that provide enough durability for your laptop to foldable canvas bags perfect for shopping outings, we’ve researched a wide range of options. Our top overall recommendation is the MZ Wallace Large Metro Tote, which offers 11 spacious pockets and is made from soft, quilted fabric that keeps your shoulders comfortable. It also comes with a detachable crossbody strap.
The best travel totes pair fashion with functionality to keep you organized en route.
Illustration: Forbes / Photo: Retailers
There are a variety of tote bags styles out there that fit different travel needs. From an expandable tote with padded laptop storage to a spacious and luxurious leather tote and a tried-and-true canvas option, our selections run the gamut. We weighed the pros and cons of each so that you can make the most informed decision about your purchase. Below, the best travel totes of 2024.
MZ Wallace
MZ Wallace Large Metro Tote Deluxe
Materials: Rec oxford (a proprietary material that uses recovered scraps and trimmings), Italian leather trim | Colors: 6 total, including Black Rec and Sandshell | Size: 14.5 x 11 x 14.5 inches | Weight: 2.1 pounds
Pros:
Has 11 pockets for staying organized
Comfortable, padded handles
Detachable crossbody strap
Three detachable pouches
Cons:
The quilted MZ Wallace Large Metro Tote Deluxe is made from a soft and comfortable quilted material and has an impressive 11 pockets for staying organized. There are five exterior pockets, six interior pockets and three detachable pouches with varying sizes. (The pouches can store makeup, liquids, snacks and more.) The main body of the tote has a zip closure to ensure everything is secure during transit. Other valuable features include a key ring strap, protective leather feet at the bottom of the bag, padded handles and a detachable crossbody strap. This tote can be packed to the brim without appearing bulky, and is spacious enough to be an overnight bag if need be. The brand also offers a Medium Metro Tote and Small Metro Tote for shorter getaways.
Editor’s Pick
Calpak
Calpak Luka Expandable Laptop Tote
Materials: Polyester | Colors: 17 total, including Gunmetal and Oatmeal | Size: 13.5 x 20 x 6.5 inches | Weight: 1.7 pounds
Pros:
Expandable bottom
Laptop and trolley sleeve
Plenty of interior pockets
Fun color options
Cons:
Soft exterior may not offer protection for items stored inside
If you tend to stuff your bags to the brim, having an expandable tote gives you the option to throw in a few extra items should the need arise. This soft, padded tote bag has an expandable bottom that provides up to four extra inches of space, and its polyester body has plenty of “give” to it as well. Other helpful features include a laptop sleeve, interior compartments for smaller items and a trolley sleeve that can slip over your suitcase handle. There are plenty of fun colors to choose from whether you’re looking for a classic color or something a bit more bold.
What our travel experts say: “This bag has a ton of compartments to easily organize travel items, including a bottom pocket for stashing an extra pair of shoes,” says Forbes Vetted editor Sholeen Damarwala. “The material and construction are very lightweight and easy to carry around at an airport. I’ve used this as a diaper bag and personal tote on numerous trips and I’m very impressed.”
Materials: Cotton canvas | Colors: 12 total, including Mauve and Regatta Blue lining | Size: 13 x 12 x 6 inches | Weight: Not listed
Pros:
Easy to store
Weight capacity of 500 pounds
Classic design easy to match with luggage and outfits
Cons:
No interior pockets
No zipper closure
One of L.L.Bean’s most classic styles, the brand’s Boat And Tote has been around since 1944, when it was invented for hauling ice. Despite its affordable price tag, this tote is made from heavy duty, durable cotton canvas that can hold up to 500 pounds of storage, so you’ll never need to worry about throwing something too heavy in your bag. It doesn’t offer the same organizational features as other items on this list – the tote has no interior pockets—but its wide opening allows items in a range of sizes to fit inside with no problem, and depending on the size selected, it has more than enough capacity to hold a laptop, shoes or a beach blanket for days on the sand. A zipped top version is also available for those who desire more security.
Editor’s Pick
Materials: Pebbled Italian leather | Colors: 5 total, including Cappuccino and Black | Size: 14.2 x 25.3 x 6.3 inches | Weight: 2.9 pounds
Pros:
Pebbled Italian leather wears well and holds up over time
Spacious interior
Easy to customize to organize your accessories
Cons:
No external pocket or trolley sleeve
Add-ons cost extra
If you’re looking for a high quality leather travel tote, Cuyana’s newest release is a great option. In our full review, the Cuyana Easy Travel Tote scored high marks for its durable and versatile design, which is ideal for long and short trips, commuting and more. It’s made from buttery soft Italian leather that holds up over time and has a spacious interior that zips close to keep your belongings from falling out. Two large pockets on each side of the interior allow you to store books, a laptop and other smaller items that can become lost in the depths of a large tote. The leather straps are comfortable and won’t dig into your shoulders, even when the bag is filled to the brim. Just keep in mind that extra pieces, like this adjustable wide strap, are sold separately.
What our travel experts say: “It’s several inches larger and wider than the Classic Easy Zipper Tote, which is the next size down, so I could seamlessly slide in my 16-inch laptop, tablet, all of my chargers, several tops and bottoms, a denim jacket, a pair of shoes and my purse, meaning I didn’t need to bring a suitcase on this trip,” says Forbes Vetted senior travel editor Astrid Taran. “Better yet, the tote didn’t feel clunky or look oddly shaped when I picked it up, so I was able to bring it with me to a restaurant for lunch without any issues.”
Materials: Organic cotton | Colors: 2 total, including Natural and Onyx | Size: 14 x 11 x 6 inches | Weight: 2.3 pounds
Pros:
Can be hand washed with cold water and soap
Comes with a multiple compartments, including one for a water bottle
Cons:
Weighing just 2.3 pounds, this compact tote is a lightweight yet spacious carryall for any trip or day of the week. It has multiple inner and outer pockets, a clean design and a slip compartment with Velcro closure that’s perfect for carrying a 13-inch laptop. The wipeable lining is also great if you’re packing shoes or anything that might spill.
What our travel experts say: “Crafted out of 100 percent organic cotton canvas, it’s a minimalist’s dream, with no major branding, hardware or extra details that might make me tire of it after one season,” says Forbes Vetted deputy editor Jane Sung. “The Vida tote also has four exterior pockets and several interior pockets that help organize everything from iPads and books to sunglasses and sanitizing wipes.”
Longchamp
Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote
Materials: Nylon with leather trim | Colors: 6 total, including Black and Steel | Size: 12.3 x 11.8 x 7.5 inches | Weight: 0.7 pounds
Pros:
Water-resistant lining
One interior compartment
Folds down when not in use
Secure snap and zipper top closure
Cons:
A foldable travel tote is a great way to save space in your closet when you’re not traveling. This option from Longchamp has a spacious interior and one smaller pocket for stashing your phone and wallet. The zip-top closure ensures your belongings won’t fall out in transit, and the water-resistant lining means you can safely carry liquids without worrying about spills. The best part? It folds down when not in use so you can throw it in your luggage or backpack without taking up too much space.
What our travel experts say: “I’ve had this foldable tote for the past eight years and it’s my go-to bag for both weekend trips and longer getaways,” says Forbes Vetted lifestyle editor Katherine Louie. “It fits several days worth of clothing and I love that the lining is water-resistant. I’ve had a few spills over the years and the material is easy to wipe clean.”
MOST POPULAR
Materials: Recycled nylon and polyester, leather | Colors: 5 total, including Ranger Green and Melbourne Black | Size: 14.2 x 18.5 x 5.1 inches | Weight: 1.4 pounds
Pros:
Affordable price
Multiple interior pockets
Water-resistant material
Cons:
No detachable shoulder strap
In our review of the Bellroy Tokyo Tote, we declare our love for this pick as a versatile, wallet-friendly work bag for women, but it’s equally great as a weekender tote. Constructed from water-resistant fabric with ethically sourced leather details, you won’t have to worry about your items getting soaked if you happen to get caught on a rainy day. The 15-liter zip-top tote also offers multiple interior pockets for toiletries and a laptop sleeve for devices up to 13 inches. A zippered pouch on the front allows for easy access to a few small valuables.
Materials: Nylon, poly jacquard, leather |Colors: 2 total, including Black and Deep Navy |Size: 12.5 x 13 x 5 inches | Weight: 2.6 pounds
Pros:
Lightweight, water-resistant material
Available in two sizes (13-inch and 15-inch) for versatility
Compact size fits under any airline seat
Cons:
Too many compartments might not offer flexible usage
This travel-ready carrier is a good choice for those who are frequently on business trips. Its built-in outer sleeve easily slides onto any rolling suitcase, while the front pocket comes with multiple compartments in varying sizes to stash and pull your passport, wallet and pens in a cinch. Inside, there’s a dedicated padded sleeve to protect your laptop from damage when you’re inevitably jostled through airport security. If you need a bit more space than the 13-inch size has to offer, there’s also a 15-inch option as well.
The travel section is overseen by Vetted’s senior travel editor, Astrid Taran, a 7-year industry veteran who’s visited over 35 countries.
To find the best travel totes, we researched dozens of best-selling options, compared features and asked our team of experienced staffers for insights.
We relied on expert advice, independent reviews, research and personal experience to make our recommendations.
We meticulously read customer reviews and analyzed several important features, including materials, dimensions, weight, durability and interior organization to assess the overall value and help readers pinpoint the best option for their needs.
The final products on this list reflect in-depth research conducted by our writer and meticulous vetting by the editorial team.
What To Consider When Buying A Travel Tote
When picking a travel tote, you’ll want to keep in mind the scenarios in which you’ll be using it. Some may prefer certain features over others, but you should definitely take the following elements into consideration:
Materials
The ideal travel tote should be strong enough to hold your laptop and other necessities, while light enough to rest over your shoulder throughout your trip. A sturdy yet soft leather (or sustainable plant-based alternatives) generally provides the most durable options. For a timeless look, take the seasons into consideration.
Straps
When choosing your perfect travel tote, look for long, thick and durable straps that can securely sit on your shoulder, especially when wearing bulky layers like a coat.
Size
The size of the tote you select depends on the nature of your travel. A quick day trip spent sightseeing in the city warrants a smaller, more lightweight bag, while a longer excursion requires a tote with more storage. If you plan on carrying your laptop, you’ll need a bag that measures at least an inch wider than your device. Those who want to bring their tote on a flight should double check that the dimensions of the bag will clear their plane’s underseat space.
Are Totes Good For Travel?
Tote bags are an excellent option for travel. They typically provide enough space for all of your essentials and have helpful features such as dedicated interior compartments, a trolley handle and more. Totes can also function as a diaper bag or everyday handbag when you’re not traveling. They don’t overtly look like luggage which makes them all the more versatile.
Can I Use A Tote Bag As A Carry On?
Yes, travel totes can easily be used as a carry-on item on flights. If you’re looking for something that folds down when not in use, you can’t go wrong with the editor-approved Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote or the classic L.L. Bean Boot And Tote Open Top.
