Picking out a new travel tote can be one of the hardest parts of preparing for a trip, especially if you’re shopping online. When you’re still in the planning phase, It can be hard to know what kind of space you need and what you’re looking for in terms of pockets and features. Whether you’re a seasoned pro at travel tote shopping or this is your very first time, we’ve made it easy for you to pick out the tote of your dreams.
- What to Consider in a Travel Tote
- Top 10 Best Travel Totes 2024
- 1. Best Overall Tote: BAOSHA Weekender Bag
- 2. Best Premium Tote: BLUBOON Weekender
- 3. Best Budget Tote: Ulgoo Travel Tote
- 4. Best Carry-on Tote: Oflamn Duffel Bag
- 5. Best Duffel Bag: Jadyn Large Duffel/Weekender Bag
- 6. Best Color Variety: CAMTOP Travel Bag
- 7. Most Stylish Tote: CHICECO Travel Bag
- 8. Best Anti-Theft Tote: Travelon Anti-Theft Tote
- 9. Most Organized Tote: Lily & Drew Weekender
- 10. Best Wheeled Tote: Kenneth Cole Runway Tote
- Guide for Buying the Best Travel Tote
- Ready for Take-off: Final Thoughts
What to Consider in a Travel Tote
No matter what kind of trip you’re packing for, there are aspects of each tote that will help you determine what’s right for your vacation needs. We’ll be going over each one of these factors later in our product reviews.
Size
The dimensions of the bag you choose are important. A bag that is too small will not be able to hold all your essentials, but one that is too large may not fit in the places you need to stow it away.
Weight
Weight dictates how much the bag weighs by itself when empty. This is especially good to know if you have a lot to pack but have a weight limit.
Bag Material
Bag material is what the entire outside of the bag is made of. This will play a major role in determining how durable a bag is, so we’ll go into more detail for each product in its “Durability” section.
Zipper Material
Zipper material will either be metal or plastic. For pros and cons of both, check out our guide.
Lining Material
This talks about what the entire inside of the bag is made of, which can be an indicator on how easy it is to clean if you need to.
Convenience
This part of each review will go into how easy the bag is to travel with and what features make travel easier.
Security
Security features can range from the very simplistic internal zipped pocket to the more advanced slash-proof fabric technology. Regardless, we’ll discuss the features of each product in this section.
Durability
This is mainly going to be in reference to the material and hardware of the bag, but durability features can also be noted here.
Now that you know what you’re looking for, you’re ready to peruse the best travel totes available.
Top 10 Best Travel Totes 2024
1. Best Overall Tote: BAOSHA Weekender Bag
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Size: 17.7” x 8.7” x 13.4”
- Weight: 2 pounds
- Bag Material: Canvas and faux leather
- Zipper Material: Plastic
- Lining: Polyester
This tote can do it all. It’s big enough to carry all the necessary items for a long weekend or a long ride, including a shoe storage compartment, but it’s small enough to fit underneath the seat in front of you on a plane.
Convenience
This travel tote has several features that make it more convenient to travel with, the most obvious of which is the separate section for shoes. If you don’t plan on using it, you can also put items you want to be separated from your bag’s contents in it, like chargers or dirty laundry.
The BAOSHA Weekender Bag also has a slot so it can be held securely on the handle of a rolling suitcase, making it an excellent choice if you’re taking a bigger bag along with you as well. If you’re not taking that kind of bag with you, there’s also an optional crossbody strap that makes it much easier to carry than the handles themselves. There is also a zippered external pocket to keep items like your boarding pass very easy to reach.
Security
This bag has a zippered internal pocket, which will keep important items like your wallet out of easy reach for pickpockets. The BAOSHA Weekender Bag has colorful printed options that will make your bag easy to spot in an overhead compartment.
Durability
Some of these bags seem to have issues with the clip on the shoulder strap, but if you contact the seller they’ll send you a replacement right away. Other than that, the BAOSHA Weekender bag is very sturdy and has a sturdy zipper.
This bag also has metal feet on the bottom, which will help preserve the bottom panel of the bag and make it usable for longer. This is especially good if you plan on setting your bag down on the ground outside.
Pros
- Separate shoe section
- Perfect size for airplane travel
- Suitcase handle slot
- Metal feet
Cons
- Metal clips on the shoulder strap may have issues
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Size: 21” x 12” x 10”
- Weight: 2.6 pounds
- Bag Material: Canvas and leather
- Zipper Material: Plastic
- Lining Material: Polyester
The BLUBOON Weekender has three external pockets, plus a compartment for shoes. Internally, there is one large zippered pocket, two slip pockets, and two pen holders. BLUBOON also offers lots of colors and print options.
Convenience
The BLUBOON Weekender has a shoe compartment that can fit two pairs, which means being able to keep them separate from the rest of your clothes while packing. Along with this, the three external pockets it has keeps things like tickets easy to find for when you need them. There is also a crossbody strap for easier carrying.
Another great feature geared towards travel convenience is the suitcase handle sleeve. Unfortunately, the quality of this sleeve does depend on the color that you choose, some colors feature a thick trolley sleeve, and some colors only have a thin strap that will cause the bag to move around when you’re trying to walk with the strap over the handle. If this is an important feature for you, keep an eye on it.
Security
The BLUBOON Weekender Bag features a large zippered pocket on the inside, to keep all of your valuables safe and easy to reach. This bag also comes in lots of colors and prints, so it can be easily spotted if needed.
Durability
The BLUBOON Weekender has metal feet, so your bag can maintain its longevity even if you’re putting it directly on the ground.
There is sometimes an issue with zippers breaking easily, but luckily if you report it to the seller they’ll send you a new one immediately.
Pros
- Lots of pockets
- Shoe compartment can fit two pairs
- Trolley sleeve
- Metal feet
Cons
- Zippers can sometimes be a problem
- Some trolley sleeves are too thin
3. Best Budget Tote: Ulgoo Travel Tote
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Size: 16” x 12” x 8”
- Weight: 2 pounds
- Bag Material: Canvas and faux leather
- Zipper Material: Plastic
- Lining Material: Unlisted
The Ulgoo Travel Tote fits perfectly under the seat in an airplane, even when it’s packed to the brim. It comes in two solid colors (the rest are prints) and has a very roomy interior with a zippered pocket and two slip pockets.
It has a strong chemical smell when you get the package, but once you air it out, it’s totally fine.
Convenience
The Ulgoo Travel Tote has a thick and reliable trolley sleeve, so it won’t go anywhere when it’s fixed on your suitcase and you’re running for your connecting flight. The trolley sleeve doubles as a reasonably sized external pocket, so you can keep your important items within easy reach.
This tote also has an optional crossbody strap that’s very comfortable to use, if you’re not taking along a suitcase.
Security
The Ulgoo Travel Tote has an internal zipped pocket, which keeps your valuables more secure. There are also lots of prints available for easy bag-spotting in the overhead cabin, or wherever you need to spot your bag.
Durability
The Ulgoo Travel Tote is made of a very durable canvas, and can stand up to a fast-paced trip. Unfortunately, the canvas isn’t waterproof, so if you think there will be rain on your trip it may be smart to also pack a waterproof wax like this one by Otter Wax.
On the bottom of the bag, there are five metal feet, which helps promote longevity of the bottom panel. This will keep your bag looking beautiful for a long time.
Pros
- Metal feet
- Trolley sleeve
- Very comfortable
- Durable material
Cons
- Not very many pockets
- Not waterproof
4. Best Carry-on Tote: Oflamn Duffel Bag
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Size: 21″ x 12.9″ x 7.4″
- Weight: 1.3 pounds
- Bag Material: Polyester
- Zipper Material: Plastic
- Lining Material: Cotton
The Oflamn Duffel Bag comes in three different sizes and makes an excellent roomy bag to pack all your essentials
The large Oflamn Duffel Bag could be too big to be used as a carry-on item, but sometimes when traveling, you need that extra room and that’s where this duffel bag comes in handy.
Convenience
The Oflamn Duffel Bag has a trolley slot, which makes traveling with it and your suitcase a breeze. If you aren’t traveling with a suitcase, have no fear–there is also an optional crossbody strap that’s padded and comfortable to carry. It also comes with a canvas toiletry bag, to keep your toiletries or other small personal items within easy reach once you’re at your destination.
This tote has a separate shoe compartment to keep your shoes from getting your clothes dirty (though you could also use this for dirty clothes on your way back if you aren’t bringing an extra pair of shoes). Unfortunately, aside from the shoe compartment, there aren’t any external pockets.
Security
The color and print variations of this bag leave a lot to be desired, especially if you’re looking for something that will stand out in a crowd. On the plus side, there’s an internal zippered pocket that will keep your important items safe.
Durability
The Oflamn Duffel Bag is made of high-quality polyester that won’t rip on you, and it also has metal feet on the bottom to promote longevity to your bag. The plastic zipper on it may have an issue with breakage if you overfill your bag, for something more sturdy that can be stuffed take a look at the CAMTOP Travel Bag.
Pros
- Padded optional crossbody strap
- Trolley sleeve
- Separate shoe compartment
- Comes with a matching toiletries bag
Cons
- Not very much color variety
- Zipper may break if you overpack the bag
5. Best Duffel Bag: Jadyn Large Duffel/Weekender Bag
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Size: 22″ x 12″ x 12″
- Weight: 1.6 pounds
- Bag Material: Polyester
- Zipper Material: Plastic
- Lining Material: Unlisted
There are three mesh pockets inside the roomy Jadyn Duffel Bag as well as one zippered pocket, which will keep your contents organized. On the outside, there’s a separate shoe compartment and one bigger pocket for your phone.
Convenience
The crossbody strap is both padded and adjustable, but the hardware makes it hard to attach and detach.
As mentioned, there’s a separate shoe compartment, which is convenient if you don’t like packing your shoes in with your clothes. Since the shoe compartment goes through the inside of the bag, the shoes do take some space away from the main pocket portion of the bag itself, which may be something to keep in mind if space is a primary concern.
The Jadyn Duffel Bag also has an external phone pocket. Unfortunately, this pocket is not zippered, so it might not be as secure as some other options with external pockets available. If you’re looking for a zippered external pocket, the BLUBOON Weekender has a couple.
Security
The Jadyn Duffel Bag has an internal zippered pocket for important things, and it comes in a variety of bright patterns. This is especially good if you’re planning on checking your duffel bag at the airport.
Durability
One of the Jadyn Duffel Bag’s strongest areas is in durability. This is a very sturdy duffel bag that will last a long time if it’s properly taken care of. The hardware on the duffel bag is also very good. The bag clips and zippers are strong and won’t break easily (though we’d recommend that you try not to over pack just in case).
Pros
- Very durable
- Padded optional crossbody strap
- Large packing capacity
- Separate shoe compartment
Cons
- Hard to attach/detach crossbody strap
- No zippered external pocket
6. Best Color Variety: CAMTOP Travel Bag
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Size: 20.9″ x 9″ x 13.4″
- Weight: 1.76 pounds
- Bag Material: Canvas and pleather
- Zipper Material: Plastic
- Lining Material: Cotton
The CAMTOP Travel Bag comes in lots of prints, but the bags featuring a shoe compartment don’t have as many color options. The bag also may have a chemical smell upon arriving, but that should go away with a few days of airing out.
This bag will fit a 15” laptop, and it will fit underneath the seat in front of you if you’re taking an airplane.
Convenience
This travel tote has an external pocket on the trolley sleeve, for ease of access to things like your passport and boarding pass. The metal from the suitcase handle might damage a phone if you put it in there while using the slot, so be cautious.
The bag comes with a crossbody strap that can be attached. Several color choices of this bag also have a shoe compartment that can fit two pairs of shoes.
Security
The CAMTOP Travel Bag has an internal zippered pocket for valuables. There are a lot of printed and colorful options for easy bag-spotting in public for the bags that don’t feature a shoe compartment. If you’re looking for a more colorful bag that also has a shoe compartment, maybe try the Jadyn Duffel Bag.
Durability
The material and stitching on this bag are strong and of high quality. The bag and the zipper can handle overpacking without a problem. There are also metal feet on the bottom of the tote, which will keep the bottom of the bag from wearing out as quickly.
Pros
- Lots of color options
- Metal feet
- Shoe compartment optional
- Trolley sleeve
Cons
- Chemical smell upon arrival
- Color options are affected by the shoe compartment feature
7. Most Stylish Tote: CHICECO Travel Bag
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Size: 16.5” x 7.5” x 12.8”
- Weight: 2 pounds
- Bag Material: Nylon and faux leather
- Zipper Material: Metal
- Lining Material: Polyester/cotton
The CHICECO Travel Bag has a very streamlined design, though unfortunately it only comes in a few solid colors. The size is ideal for being used as an airplane personal item, and it can still hold a 17” laptop. The bag itself is perfect for traveling for work, when you need to make a good impression, or if you plan on using it as a purse while walking around the city.
Convenience
The CHICECO Travel Bag doesn’t have a crossbody strap or a trolley sleeve. The straps are long enough to put over your shoulder and the bag itself is lightweight, but if you’re looking for something that comes with a crossbody strap and/or a trolley slot, check out the Lily and Drew Weekender.
There is a key tether on the internal pocket, which will ensure that you don’t have to dig around the bag to find your keys.
Security
Inside the CHICECO Travel Bag there is a zippered compartment to keep your items secure. This bag only comes in solid neutral colors which might make it harder to be seen if you need to spot it. For a bag with more easily-seen color options, maybe try the CAMTOP Travel Bag.
Durability
The material of this tote bag is incredibly sturdy. The nylon is weatherproof, so you don’t have to fear for your items if you get caught in the rain. The main zipper is metal, and while that doesn’t add much in terms of being able to overpack the bag, it’ll still hold up to the elements a little better than a plastic zipper might.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Weatherproof
- Key tether inside
- Very stylish
Cons
- Not a lot of pockets
- No crossbody strap
8. Best Anti-Theft Tote: Travelon Anti-Theft Tote
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Size: 13.5” x 5” x 13.5”
- Weight: 1.8 pounds
- Bag Material: Canvas
- Zipper Material: Plastic
- Lining Material: Unlisted
If you’re looking specifically for security features, the Travelon Anti-Theft Tote has almost every possible one of them (even though it only comes in a couple of colors). This bag can hold a 13” laptop and fits perfectly as a carry-on item. Inside there is one internal zippered pocket and two slip pockets.
Convenience
Attached to the inside zipper, there is a tethered key clip with an LED light to help you find anything you’re looking for in the main pocket of the bag. On the outside, there’s an external pocket with a locking zipper, so everything you need is safely right there.
Unlike a lot of the bags that we’ve listed, the Travelon Anti-Theft Tote doesn’t have a trolley slot. If that’s something you’re really looking for, the BAOSHA Weekender Bag has one.
Security
The first thing that you’ll notice on this tote is that the external pocket has a locking zipper. There is also an internal zippered pocket if you prefer to keep your valuables out of sight completely.
The bag and the straps are both slash-proof, which can give you peace of mind when traveling. There is also an RFID blocking pocket to help keep your passport and credit card information safe.
Durability
The hardware on the Travelon Anti-Theft Tote is extremely strong, adding to its security. The zipper on the outside is metal, so even if it’s subjected to wear and tear, it’ll stay strong. The biggest problem with this tote is that it can rip easily at the seams, even though the material itself is hearty. When it rips, the slash-proof wiring on the inside can become exposed.
Pros
- Slash proof bag and straps
- RFID blocking pocket
- Strong hardware
Cons
- Can rip easily
- Doesn’t have trolley slot
- Minimal color options
9. Most Organized Tote: Lily & Drew Weekender
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Size: 16” x 6.5” x 13”
- Weight: 3 pounds
- Bag Material: Polyester
- Zipper Material: Plastic
- Lining Material: Polyester
Inside the Lily and Drew Weekender there’s a large zippered pocket as well as five mesh non-zip pockets, which is perfect for keeping everything that you need within reach. The size is still very reasonable despite being able to hold a lot of things and is perfect for taking as a personal item on a plane. This tote comes in a variety of solid colors and prints.
Convenience
The external pockets on this tote are the real stars: there’s a front zippered pocket that has two sleeves (plus an anchor for your keys) and a non-zipper “quick access” pocket. There are also two side pockets for water bottles.
Along with the handy pockets, there is also a slot for a suitcase handle, which can zipper and double as a pocket when it’s not in use.
The bag isn’t very comfortable to carry around, however. The padding on the shoulder strap isn’t very good, and the clips that the strap attaches to are positioned in such a way that the bag hangs crooked when you wear it.
Security
The Lily and Drew Weekender has a padded laptop compartment (for 15.6” laptop and smaller). Inside, there is a large zippered pocket, so your valuables are safe from pickpockets. It also comes in easy-to-spot prints.
Durability
The material of the bag is very sturdy and weather-resistant, so if you’re caught in a storm, you won’t have to worry about everything getting soaked.
The zipper of this tote can be a little bit of an issue, as it has small teeth, so it’s not as durable as one with big teeth, especially if your bag’s full. For a bag with a sturdy zipper, check out the CAMTOP Travel Bag.
Pros
- Padded laptop compartment
- Water resistant
- Lots of pockets
Cons
- Zipper is small and not sturdy
- Shoulder strap is uncomfortable
10. Best Wheeled Tote: Kenneth Cole Runway Tote
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Size: 16” x 6” x 15”
- Weight: 5.5 pounds
- Bag Material: Nylon-twill and split leather
- Zipper Material: Plastic
- Lining Material: Unlisted
The Kenneth Cole Runway Tote’s main feature is its wheels and its chic design. It holds laptops up to 17” but will still fit under the seat of an airplane if you turn it sideways. Inside the bag, there’s a “business organizer,” which is a pocket that contains two pen holders, two slip pockets, three card slots, and a full zipper pocket.
There are only a few colors to choose from, and none of them are printed. You can also get the bag without the wheels for significantly less.
Convenience
Along with the wheels, this tote has a trolley handle that extends 30” so you don’t have to carry it on your shoulder. It does also have a trolley sleeve if you’re traveling with another bag, but it’s a skinny strap, so your bag may flop around when you’re walking with it on the handle.
The Kenneth Cole Runway Tote has one zippered external pocket and two non-zippered external pockets for easy reach. It also has a removable accessory pouch with a key ring that can be attached inside.
The bag itself is not too bulky, but it’s also not lightweight at all because of the hardware. If you’re looking specifically for a light bag, the Oflamn Duffel Bag is super light while still being spacious.
Security
The most prominent security feature is its RFID blocking technology, which keeps your passport and credit card information extra safe. Inside the bag, there are also padded laptop and tablet pockets, which will keep your devices secure.
Durability
This tote is extremely durable and sturdy and could even be used as an everyday work bag. The external pockets have metal zippers, so they can take more of a beating with use than plastic ones.
The material of the bag is weatherproof, but the accents are suede and can’t be exposed to water without the texture being compromised permanently.
Pros
- Has wheels
- RFID blocking technology
Cons
- Not lightweight for carrying
- Trolley sleeve is very thin
Guide for Buying the Best Travel Tote
Plans for Use
You probably already have an idea for what you’re going to be using your new tote for, but it may be helpful to take a second and think about what you plan on storing in the bag. You can even go so far as to make a list. If you’re looking to replace an old travel bag, ask yourself what features from that bag really worked and what you’d like to do without.
A big thing that shoppers often forget is to double-check the size of your laptop if you plan on bringing it. Travel totes range greatly in size, so not all laptops will fit all of them.
We talk about it in the features to look for but think about whether you’re looking for a color that will stand out so you can spot it at the airport or something that won’t stand out while you’re traveling.
Bag Types
There are a few different types of bags that fall under the “travel tote” umbrella, so let’s take a look at the differences:
Traditional Tote Bag
A tote bag doesn’t have a crossbody strap, like the CHICECO Travel Bag. Tote bags tend not to have a lot of pockets, so items may not be as easily accessible.
Weekender
A weekender is bigger than a traditional tote but smaller than a duffel bag. It’s meant to carry a weekend’s worth of clothes as the name suggests. Most of the products on our list qualify as weekenders.
Duffel Bag
Duffel bags are known for their round sides and large size. They’re best as a carry-on, but smaller duffels like the Jadyn Duffel Bag are great for doing it all.
Rolling Bag
A rolling bag has a handle and wheels, like the Kenneth Cole Runway Tote. They’re good for keeping the bag weight off your body completely and usually have lots of space.
Materials
The biggest thing you may have in mind while you’re shopping for a bag is what the bag itself is made of, so let’s look at the differences.
Split Leather
Split leather is also known as suede, which is soft and great as an accent. It’s just as strong as leather, but it’s not waterproof at all.
Synthetic Leather
Synthetic leather is also known as faux leather or pleather, a plastic imitation of leather. It’s usually found on bag accents as it’s weatherproof but not quite as durable as other fabrics. Synthetic leather is often marketed as a sustainable alternative to leather, but this is not always the case.
Canvas
Canvas, a heavy-duty cotton, is known for its strength and durability. Canvas that isn’t blended with another fabric isn’t waterproof, but it can be made waterproof with a canvas wax like this.
Leather
Leather is another material known for durability, but full-leather bags tend to be very heavy and too small to use as travel totes. We do like this one if real leather is something you’d prefer.
Nylon
Nylon is a relatively new synthetic fabric that balances heartiness with weatherproofing. It’s also very light to carry.
Polyester
Polyester, another newer fabric, is even more waterproof than nylon and super durable, that’s why most bags are made from polyester or a polyester blend. Polyester is also difficult to stain.
Features to Consider
The type of traveling that you do and what you’re looking for in a travel bag will correlate strongly with the types of features that you’ll want to keep an eye on. Though there’s some overlap, we’ve determined that features typically fall into three categories: Durability, convenience, and security.
Durability features help ensure longevity in your bag, the convenience makes the bag easier to travel with, and security features help protect you and your belongings from pickpockets.
Durability Features
Arguably, the most important durability feature is what the bag is made of. Waterproof material is especially key, but the strength of the material is also important. For more on tote materials, check out our guide.
A popular durability feature on travel totes is the presence of metal feet, which will prevent wear and tear to the bottom panel. As a side convenience feature, the feet will also make the bag able to be stood upright without falling over.
Convenience Features
A big convenience feature is external pockets. This is because being able to reach your necessary items without digging around too much can be a huge help. A bottle holder on the side will keep your beverage within reach. Shoe compartments will keep your shoes separate from your clothes.
A trolley slot will make carrying easier, as you won’t have to balance it on top of your suitcase, but you also won’t have to carry it in your hand. Crossbody straps are another convenient fix, because they distribute the weight of the bag more evenly.
A key tether attached to an internal zipper, like on the CHICECO Travel Bag will keep your keys from getting lost in the bottom of your bag.
Security Features
Internal zippered compartments will make it more difficult for pickpockets. Every bag we’ve listed has at least one.
Higher-tech security solutions like RFID blocking pockets will protect your passport and credit card information. Slash proof material, seen on the Travelon Anti-Theft Tote will keep your bag safe if the worst happens.
If you’re putting your bag in an overhead compartment or taking a bus and storing it in cargo, an obvious coloring/print will be good to ensure no one else runs off with it. However, getting a loudly printed bag will make you stand out if you plan on using it as a regular bag on the go, so keep that in mind when you’re selecting your colors.
Plastic vs. Metal Zipper
Metal zippers tend to be less flexible than plastic ones. Plastic zippers have a smoother glide while opening and closing, because of their flexibility.
When shopping for a tote that you plan on stuffing, it makes sense to seek out a metal zipper but there actually isn’t any hard evidence proving that it makes a difference. Even though they can take more of a beating than a plastic zipper, horizontal pressure will damage a metal zipper just as often as a hearty plastic one.
Overstuffing your bag can be a problem, not only for the zipper but for the seams around it. If you know you tend to stuff your bag full, it might be a good idea to look at something a little bigger to give you more breathing room.
Travel Tote Storage Tips
Using a purse support to keep the bag full will go a long way in keeping it from getting wrinkled and losing shape. Tissue paper also works for this.
A dust cover, like this one by MISSLO, will keep your bag clean and keep moths out, which will preserve it for even longer.
Ready for Take-off: Final Thoughts
Whether you’re heading out of town for a weekend or planning a longer and more elaborate venture, a good travel tote can make your vacation so much easier. Modern travel bags have so many features and styles that picking one suited to your exact needs can be a fun way to get your brain ready for vacation mode.