Whether you’re jet-setting to Paris, hopping on a quick weekend getaway, or commuting to your favourite staycation spot, one travel essential remains constant: the tote bag. Equal parts stylish and practical, a good travel tote is the perfect carry-on, personal item, and wardrobe staple all in one.
In this guide, we’re rounding up the best tote bags for traveling—from luxury picks to budget-friendly finds, all chosen for their capacity, comfort, and chic factor. Whether you prioritise organisation, aesthetics, or all the above, there’s a travel tote here with your name on it.
What to Look for in a Great Travel Tote
Before diving into our top picks, here’s what makes a travel tote truly great:
- Spacious interior for essentials like laptops, water bottles, cosmetics, and snacks.
- Secure closures (zip or snap) to keep items safe in transit.
- Durable material that can handle airports, overhead bins, and rain.
- Comfortable straps that don’t dig into your shoulder.
- Smart organisation, like pockets and compartments to keep things tidy.
- Stylish design, because you shouldn’t have to sacrifice fashion for function.
1. Cuyana Classic Easy Tote
This minimalist leather tote has become a fashion editor favourite and traveller must-have. Made from buttery-soft Italian leather, it’s unstructured yet spacious, making it ideal for stuffing with a scarf, tablet, water bottle, and a small clutch.
- Material: Italian pebbled leather
- Closure: Open top (add optional zipper insert)
- Best for: Stylish travelers who value quality and versatility
2. Longchamp Le Pliage Large Tote
A tried-and-true classic. The Le Pliage folds flat (great for packing) but expands into a roomy, water-resistant tote perfect for airports, sightseeing, or even beach days.
- Material: Nylon with leather handles
- Closure: Zipper top with snap flap
- Best for: Lightweight, functional travel with a Parisian twist
Editor’s tip: It’s available in multiple colours and sizes—stock up for every trip.
3. Tumi Voyageur Just In Case Tote
If you want a tote that packs down small but works hard when needed, this is it. The Tumi Voyageur is ultra-light, foldable, and fits perfectly as a personal item under airplane seats.
- Material: Durable nylon
- Closure: Zipper
- Best for: Emergency carry-ons or packing extras for your return flight
Pro tip: Tumi’s Add-a-Bag sleeve slips over your suitcase handle for easy airport navigation.
4. Everlane The ReNew Transit Tote
This tote checks all the boxes: sustainable materials, water-resistant finish, padded laptop sleeve, and exterior zip pockets for your passport and boarding pass. All in a sleek, structured silhouette.
- Material: Recycled polyester
- Closure: Zipper
- Best for: Conscious travelers who don’t want to compromise on style
Bonus: It fits perfectly on top of a rolling suitcase and stays put.
5. Madewell The Zip-Top Transport Tote
A cult favourite for good reason. This structured leather tote is big enough for a laptop and snacks, stylish enough for post-flight dinners, and classic enough to use every day.
- Material: Vegetable-tanned leather
- Closure: Zipper top
- Best for: Chic travelers who want one bag to rule them all
Editor’s tip: The shoulder drop is comfy even when you’re wearing a coat—an underrated bonus.
6. Dagne Dover Allyn Tote
Organisation lovers, this one’s for you. The Allyn Tote features multiple internal compartments, padded tech sleeves, and a neoprene lining that keeps everything secure.
- Material: Coated canvas or neoprene
- Closure: Magnetic
- Best for: Digital nomads and workcation pros
Bonus: It has a key leash and water bottle holder—two features you’ll appreciate mid-flight.
7. Marc Jacobs The Tote Bag
Playful, structured, and available in canvas or leather, this bag has become a street style favourite. The small and medium sizes make perfect travel companions—and look great in vacation photos.
Material: Canvas or leather Closure: Zipper Best for: Trendy travelers who love bold style
Pro tip: The medium fits a 13” laptop and is surprisingly roomy.
8. Away The Everywhere Bag
Designed to slide over Away suitcases, this tote is perfect for overnight trips or as a personal item. It’s structured, sharp, and filled with compartments—including a laptop sleeve and hidden phone pocket.
- Material: Nylon or leather
- Closure: Zipper
- Best for: Jet-setters who crave sleek design and functionality
Bonus: It’s spill-resistant, which is handy when your in-flight wine gets wobbly.
9. L.L.Bean Boat and Tote
It’s the tote that does it all. From travel to grocery runs, the Boat and Tote is made from heavyweight canvas and stitched to last for years.
Bonus: It’s customisable with your initials!
- Material: Heavy-duty canvas
- Closure: Open top
- Best for: Casual getaways, road trips, and families on the move
Editor’s tip: Go for the long-handle version for better shoulder comfort.
Final Thoughts: The Best Tote Bag for You
The perfect tote bag for travel is the one that meets your lifestyle, travel habits, and personal style. Whether you’re heading to a conference, catching a red-eye, or exploring a new city, a well-chosen tote will make the journey smoother—and more stylish.
From luxury leather options to foldable wonders, the right travel tote can carry it all without compromising your outfit. And remember: the best tote doesn’t just get you there. It goes everywhere with you.
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