Somewhere between the functional mom bag and fashionable mini bag lies a classic style that effortlessly delivers on both fronts: the tote. Defined by two over-the-shoulder handles and a deep rectangular structure crafted from durable materials, totes have become much more than utilitarian carryalls. Today, the bags are powerful accessories representing mindful sustainability and style-savvy. (Speaking of style there’s even an Instagram account dedicated to the revival of L.L. Bean’s iconic Boat and Tote bags.) That’s why we’ve rounded up the best tote bags designed to suit you effortlessly for work, travel, school, and everything in between.
From L.L.Bean‘s OG styles to Baggu‘s packable ripstop-nylon creations, the totes are worth adding to your bag rotations. There’s a color, print, fabric, and size for everyone. Find the one that matches your style. Each of our picks is approved for all occasions — aka ready to carry you and your stuff from crowded work commutes to grocery runs, gym trips, all-day shopping excursions, and nights out on the town.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Lululemon Side-Cinch Shopper Bag
Stormy weather is no match for your commute or an activity-packed weekend trip with this bag. Lululemon’s trusty lightweight tote is created from water-repellent material, so there’s no fear of spills or splashes. Plus, it features adjustable side details for you to customize the look. Functional and cute.
Lululemon Side-Cinch Shopper Bag 18L, $, available at Lululemon
Mansur Gavriel Everyday Soft Tote
You might recognize Mansur Gavriel by its iconic bucket bags. However, the brand also has a list of stylish handbags like the Everyday Soft Tote for you to carry around your belongings fashionably.
Mansur Gavriel Everyday Soft Tote, $, available at Mansur Gavriel
Girlfriend Collective Provence Please Recycle Tote Bag
This recyclable tote was created for organization lovers. You can store all your little knick-knacks with the five pockets of various sizes.
Free People Cloud Commuter Tote
Meet your beloved quilted puffer coat in its slouchy tote form. It has a zippered interior with a padded laptop sleeve, so your daily essentials will be safe and cushy.
Free People Cloud Commuter Tote, $, available at Free People
Rebecca Minkoff Suede Tote
If you’re an avid Rebecca Minkoff fan, you’ll notice the signature buckle clasp and tassel. Unlike many totes, it also features a magnetic snap closure. No need to zip your bag (or let it all hang open) when you’re on the go.
& Other Stories Crochet Tote Bag
We’re ready to style this lilac carryall to weekend brunches and playful date nights for many seasons to come.
& Other Stories Crochet Tote Bag, $, available at & Other Stories
Urban Outfitters Take Your Vitamins Tote Bag
Let the slogan on this classic cotton-canvas style serve as a cheerful reminder for you (and the rest of the world).
Urban Outfitters Take Your Vitamins Tote Bag, $, available at Urban Outfitters
Slouchy Tote
This bright neon number is set to be a statement bag star — pair it with everything from your favorite leather jackets to dresses and carry it everywhere from the office to a park picnic.
By Anthropologie Slouchy Tote, $, available at Anthropologie
Everlane The Italian Leather Studio Bag
Everlane’s elevated version of the tote bag is crafted from buttery-smooth Italian leather that radiates effortless polish. The roomy shape makes it perfect for work, school, or as a daily tote.
Everlane The Italian Leather Studio Bag, $, available at Everlane
Etsy Granny Crochet Tote
Exude covetable granny style with this handmade crochet bag.
KNITANDCROCHETWORLD Granny Crochet Tote Bag, $, available at Etsy
Mango Leather Shopper Bag
Envision a chic businesswoman with this suede tote. The chain double handle is an elevated touch to the usual canvas versions.
WorldLyda Canvas Crossbody Tote
This delightfully rainbow-striped and durable canvas style wields a bonus crossbody strap for extra secure toting.
Worldlyda Canvas Crossbody Tote, $, available at Amazon
H&M Straw Bag
Straw bags don’t always have to be the stereotypical brown hue. This playful one has rainbow sherbet vibes, but don’t let the sweet look fool you. At 15 inches tall, there’s enough room to stuff plenty of beach supplies.
H&M Straw Bag, $, available at H&M
L.L.Bean Hunter’s Open-Top Tote Bag
For a more modern take on the OG tote, try L.L.Bean’s sturdy polyester version in a statement camo print — this timeless workhouse carryall is available in three size tiers, suits just about any style, and holds a boatload of stuff.
L.L. Bean Hunter’s Tote Bag, Open-Top, $, available at L.L. Bean
Baggu Standard Baggu
It’s tough to pick just one of Baggu’s classic reusable bags to include in our tote hit list — but this multi-metallic style ranks high as a must-have, disco-vibe essential.
Baggu Standard Baggu, $, available at Baggu
Madewell The Medium Transport Tote
One tote that will never fail you: Madewell’s Transport Tote. It’s a cult favorite with 4.4 stars and over 1,000 reviews.
Madewell The Medium Transport Tote, $, available at Madewell
Etsy LinenFox Large Tote Bag
We love the relaxed, elegant vibe and all-encompassing size of this handmade tote crafted from 100% organic Baltic linen.
Linenfox Large Linen Tote Bag, $, available at Etsy
Rothy’s The Essential Tote
The comfy-chic shoe brand’s sustainable handbag launch brought us this sleek stripe tote crafted from 100% recycled marine plastic materials.
Rothy’s The Essential Tote, $, available at Rothy’s
Etsy Thank You Shopping Bag Tote
Give a cheeky nod to New York’s plastic bag ban with this takeout-style tote crafted from a durable, double-layer canvas.
ChubbyMishoStore Thank You T-Shirt Reusable Shopping Bag, $, available at Etsy
Tarte Sugar Rush Holographic Tote
Plastic bags may be out, but holographic totes made from non-toxic, luminous-jelly materials aren’t.
Sugar Rush Holographic Tote Bag, $, available at Tarte
J.Crew Weekender Montauk Tote In Leather
Invest in this timeless leather tote bag and be amazed at how many years go by using it. It’ll be your new staple for weekend trips and everything in between.
Gophra Corduroy Tote Bag
Not all totes are made from cotton canvas materials — peep this corduroy style that looks like a throwback from our grade-school days.
Gophra Corduroy Tote Bag, $, available at Amazon
Sondra Roberts Wove EW Tote Bag
Channel your best summer style with this warm-weather essential tote crafted from woven jute braided with fabric fragments.
Sondra Roberts Wove EW Tote Bag, $, available at Nordstrom Rack
Urban Outfitters Tie-Dye Washed Canvas Tote
Finally, a tie-dye tote (crafted from durable cotton canvas) to complete your head-to-toe tie-dye ‘fits in 2020.
Urban Outfitters Washed Canvas Tote Bag, $, available at Urban Outfitters
Opening Ceremony Super Large Tote
We said EVERY occasion…
Opening Ceremony Super Large Tote, $, available at Opening Ceremony
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