How to Choose a Tote Bag

Tote bags have long been the best way to tote things around. That’s probably how they got their name. But you don’t want to choose a tote bag that stands out like a sore thumb with your suit or looks like it belongs at a disco club when you’re going to the beach. You can choose a tote bag that fits your stuff and your needs with a few simple steps.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Decide what you need the tote bag for. Don’t pick flowery wicker for your work bag and beaded leather won’t go over well at the beach. Make sure the bag is durable and fashionable enough to stand up to where you are going to carry it.

2. Determine the size. If all you bring to work is a water bottle and a thin file, don’t pick some gargantuan bag where the file will fall around and get bent. Likewise, a beach bag should be large enough for a towel, water, sunscreen, snacks, shells you collect and any other miscellaneous things you tote to or from the beach.

3. Pick a color. Work bags are most fashionable in solids or with a subtle design so it is at least somewhat professional. Beach bags can match your swimsuit or have a funky design with flowers and suns to reflect a day at the beach. Nobody cares what color of tote you pick to cart around your groceries.

4. Choose the proper material. Leather looks the most professional; don’t do pleather or vinyl for work, especially on a tote bag that has a large, flat surface that heightens the material’s cheapness. Wicker is cute for the beach, but not all that durable. Canvas is a good pick for a lot of uses as it is durable and easily washable.

5. Pay attention to closures and compartments. If you work in a rainy climate, you may want a work bag that has a zippered top to keep your work files dry. You may also want at least one long, thin divider so the files also stay upright. If your bag serves to carry water on a hike, you'll want an open top so you can reach it while you keep moving and easy access to throw in any rocks and neat wood chunks you find. Some beach bags come with attached, smaller bags inside so you can easily store your keys, money and other stuff that might get mixed in with your towel and sunscreen.

Tips & Warnings

• Beach bags are best devoid of fringe, beads, rhinestones and other adornments that may get grimy in the sand or melt off in the sun. Besides, if you pick a nice, soft beach bag it can double as a pillow while you lay in the sun.
• Opt for function over fashion. Cute little bags may fall apart in their cute little way. You want something that could haul rocks if needed.
• One bag may fit all your needs, for a while. Once it starts looking ratty, you may want to opt for a different work bag so you don’t look like you’re going into the office to work as a bag lady.
• Don’t carry more than one tote bag. It makes you look like you are going camping. Unless you are carrying extra for a day, make sure one bag is large enough to fit all your needs. If not, you need a bigger bag.