The Best Tote Bag

Buying Guide

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.

• 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.