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The Best Tote Bag

Last updated on February 7, 2022

We looked at the top 10 Tote Bags and dug through the reviews from 25 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best Tote Bags.

Our Review Process

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A tote bag is a handy and versatile way to carry all sorts of different things. Typically, tote bags are made out of canvas, which is a durable fabric made from linen or cotton. Tote bags have a large opening at the top where you put in your items, and two handles or long straps to use for wearing the bag on your back or shoulders. Often, tote bags do not have a closure, so you can easily access the items inside without having to unzip or unfasten the bag each time.

One of the most common uses for a tote bag is for grocery shopping. Totes can replace the plastic bags that are typically provided by grocery stores to carry your items, so using a tote bag is one way to help the environment and reduce plastic waste.

Tote bags also come in handy when taking kids to extra curricular activities, such as gymnastics, dance or skating. You can place their equipment, change of clothes, water and snack in a tote bag so you don’t have your hands full. Tote bags are also perfect for carrying your things when you’re heading to the beach or park for the day.

Often, tote bags are given out at conferences or trade shows to hold free samples, and they can even be personalized and handed out at weddings so guests can easily bring home their wedding favors.

Our Picks For The Top Tote Bags

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Product Overview
Our Take
  Best Overall

Household Essentials Water-Resistant Collapsible Tote Bag

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

Household Essentials

Water-Resistant Collapsible Tote Bag

All of your items can fit in this large-capacity tote bag. It collapses so you can easily store it when it's not in use. The two mid-length handles make it easy to carry when full.

Overall Take

Huge CapacityThis tote bag is perfect for groceries, laundry or the beach.

  Best Designer Bag

Kate Spade New York Dream Big Canvas Tote Bag

Kate Spade

New York Dream Big Canvas Tote Bag

Show off your stylish side with this Dream Big tote bag. It has a small interior pocket for your valuables. The two straps are long enough to wear on your shoulder.

Overall Take

Stylish DesignThis classic tote bag has a colorful graphic print on the front.

  Most Practical

Lily Queen Spacious Multi-Way Canvas Tote Bag

Lily Queen

Spacious Multi-Way Canvas Tote Bag

You can carry this tote bag with your hands, wear it on your shoulder or wear the longer strap across your body. It is spacious and roomy enough for all your essentials. The sturdy bag is made from a cotton-canvas washable material.

Overall Take

Wide and Breathable StrapsThis tote bag has top handles and cross-body straps, made from a breathable fabric.

Don't just take for granted what one reviewer says. Along with our own experts, Simplemost analyzes the top expert reviews of the leading products and generates a score you can actually trust.
17

Products Considered

We identified the majority of the tote bags available to purchase.
10

Products Analyzed

We then selected the leading and most popular products for our team to review.

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25

Expert Reviews Included

In addition to our expert reviews, we also incorporate feedback and analysis of some of the most respected sources.

35,669

User Opinions Analyzed

We also incorporate user reviews from the leading retailers including

What to Look For

  • When buying a tote bag, consider what you’ll primarily be using it for. This will help you determine which size is best. If you’ll be using your tote bag for a number of different outings and activities, consider getting a large bag to accommodate whatever you’ll need.
  • Some tote bags have two handles at the top of the bag, which are great for holding with your hands or carrying on your shoulders. You can also find tote bags that have long straps that can be used to wear the bag in a cross-body fashion.
  • Consider whether having an open tote bag is better for your lifestyle or if you need one that has a closure. Typically, closures are either zippers or magnetic buttons.
  • Most tote bags have one large pocket, which makes it convenient to place both large and small items in the bag. Some also come with small interior or exterior pockets, which are useful for storing things like your phone, keys or wallet.

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