16 Best Designer Tote Bags for Travel

Looking for the best designer tote bags for travel on the market? If you haven’t noticed, airports are starting to get crowded because travel is finally picking up again. Rising gas prices lead to rising flight costs, which can also cut into your budget for checked luggage if you’re not team carry-on.

Sometimes, a crossbody, shoulder bag, or backpack is not enough to carry all my travel essentials, so I opt for a tote bag as my personal item, especially during international travel.

A tote bag gives you quick access to your passport, phone charger, camera, extra camera lens, wallet, laptop, hand sanitizer, sunglasses, medication, lip balm, other travel beauty items, water bottle, snacks, pair of shoes, and a swimsuit or change of outfit if needed.

Totes are also great for a day trip or bringing home last-minute souvenirs for friends and family. If you’re looking to travel in style, here are helpful tips on what to look for when purchasing a travel tote and the best designer tote bags for travel.

What to Look for in a Travel Tote

When looking for a travel tote, I consider cost, size, style, security, and materials. I also look for things like adjustable shoulder straps so I can wear them as a crossbody if needed or a fashionable tote that can also work for every day.

Some options will be more critical than others, depending on the type of traveler you are and how you plan to use the bag.

Cost

Whether you’re a budget, luxury, or somewhere in-between traveler, cost is probably one of the first things that comes to mind when looking for a good travel tote.

Designer travel totes are pricey but made to last. Most designer bags have warranties that cover repairs or replacements if they are damaged.

If you’re a frequent traveler, spending more on a travel tote that is high quality would make better sense than getting something that’s replaced every 2 to 3 years.

Size

The size of your travel tote depends on what you plan to bring with you. Totes come in different sizes, and it is important to check the bag’s dimensions before purchasing. Buying a tote that is too small will make it difficult to fit some necessities, and something too big may cause you to overpack.

If you are considering a large travel tote, look for one with plenty of room and open compartments to help with organization, or purchase a tote organizer insert.

Security

Security is another essential factor when picking a travel tote bag. One with a top zip closure or magnetic closure will be the most effective for keeping your belongings secure, or you can get an open-top tote with interior pockets for easy access to essential items like your phone, keys, wallet, and passport.

In addition to zippers and slip pockets, some convenient features to look for in a work-travel tote are a padded sleeve to keep your laptop or tablet from getting scratched and a removable zip pouch for daily use.

Materials

When buying a travel tote, make sure to invest in something that has materials that will last. Designer travel totes are made from many different materials such as nylon, leather, canvas, or a mixture of two or more materials. Nylon is a great option because it is lightweight and easy to clean.

A premium leather bag is durable and made to last long. Cotton canvas bags are lightweight, easy to pack, and usually machine washable.

Best Designer Tote bags for Travel + Best Travel Totes

How to Pack a Tote Bag for Travel

Packing a tote bag for travel requires some strategic thinking since tote bags offer less space than suitcases. Here are some steps to help you pack efficiently:

Before you pack:

Consider the trip: Think about the length of your trip, the destination’s climate, and the activities you’ll be doing. This will help you determine what essentials to pack.
Choose the right tote: If you’re bringing a tote bag on the plane, select one appropriate for the airline’s carry-on restrictions. Opt for a well-organized tote with compartments or pockets for easier access to your belongings.

Essentials to pack:

Toiletries: If you bring travel-sized toiletries on a carry-on, pack them in a clear, resealable bag. Check TSA regulations for liquid restrictions.
Travel documents: Keep your passport, ID, boarding pass, and any travel documents secure and easily accessible.
Tech essentials: Pack your phone, chargers, portable battery pack, and any necessary electronics.
Extras: Consider packing a refillable water bottle, a small first-aid kit, hand sanitizer, and any medications you need.

Additional tips:

Utilize pockets: Tote bags often have pockets that can hold smaller items like sunglasses, headphones, or your travel book.
Pack a change of clothes: If your checked luggage is delayed, pack a fresh set of clothes in your travel tote.
Wear your bulkiest items: Wear your heaviest shoes and jacket on the plane to save space in your tote.

The Best Tote Bags for Traveling

I have spent a lot of time searching these past few weeks for the best carry-on tote bags and found the perfect travel totes that are also suitable for everyday use.

My list of designer tote bags for travel. shares spacious bags that can be used for everyday life like for work, school, travel, or running errands, and are an asset to your handbag collection.