18 Best Tote Bags to Buy in Australia for 2024
Whether you're off to work, the beach or the grocery store, we've curated a list of the best tote bags to carry everything you need - including a popular style from ASOS that TikTok users are obsessed with.
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Considered one of the most essential items you can own, the best tote bags have no bounds when it comes to securely holding all your belongings so you can travel everywhere completely hassle free.
For some, a chic and sturdy leather tote is a non-negotiable for work and travel — it’s roomy enough to fit your laptop, iPad, water bottle, skincare and makeup bag and all your valuables. For others, a packable cotton tote is perfect for whipping out mid-trip when grocery shopping or at the beach. And unlike trends like the micro bag, the versatility and design of the humble tote has very little chance of ever going out of style.
Our current pick is the popular ASOS Design Suede Tote Bag with Tubular Piping, which frequently sells out - shoppers say it's "super chic", "looks expensive" and "great for everyday".
We've also spotted the viral COS Quilted Bag back in stock - worn by the likes of it-girl Jennie Kim from Blackpink, our Shopping Writer Harriet snapped up the bag and says it's "worth the hype" - plus it's also available in Blue and Brown.
Scroll on for our round-up of the best tote bags that will carry your everyday essentials with ease.
OUR TOP PICKS
EDITOR’S PICKS: BEST TOTE BAGS OVERALL
ASOS DESIGN Suede Tote Bag with Tubular Piping, $104 at ASOS
Why we love it: Stylish design; oversized style; clasp fastening to contain 'hobo' shape; two inner pockets; sturdy twin handles; big enough to fit a lot of things including a laptop.
What to consider: No laptop compartment; no structure; no zipper - magnetic button fastening; suede may get ruined easily.
Dimensions: 39W x 35H x 18D centimetres.
Material: 100 per cent suede leather; 100 per cent polyester lining.
Colour: Forest Green; Tan
What You Need To Know
If you're after a large bag that's chic and easy, this popular pick from ASOS is a must. Crafted from 100 per cent suede, this beautiful hobo-style tote bag features tubular piping for a contrasting effect, twin handles, an inner zip pocket and slip pocket, magnetic button fastening and a gold-tone metal clasp that you can connect to keep the hobo shape or undo for a slouchy rectangular tote shape. It's big enough to fit everything you could possibly need including a laptop - which is just perfect!
This bag in particular has gone viral all over TikTok and frequently sells out - so you better get it quick!
TikTok user @itsyourgirlsamanthaa posted a video informing her followers that the bag had finally come back in stock, and they rushed to the site to buy the bag.
"Just purchased mine! Be waiting months! Woohoo," one commented.
"I RAN to the website! So excited to get it in the mail," another commented.
Other shoppers say it's "great for everyday", "super chic" and "looks expensive".
Longchamp Le Pliage Original Shoulder Tote Bag – Large, $285 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Cult classic; chic design; spacious; foldable for easy storage; zip fastening with flap detail for extra security; twin handles; durable material.
What to consider: No laptop compartment; no structure; expensive.
Dimensions: 31W x 30H x 19D centimetres.
Material: Polyamide canvas
Colour: Noir; Paper.
What You Need To Know
Is there a tote bag more iconic that Longchamp? These classic bags have been around for decades and don’t appear to be going anywhere anytime soon. Perfect for almost any occasion, they always are the ideal way to top off an outfit and add a touch of French elegance. Crafted from recycled polyamide canvas with inside coating, they may not be 100 per cent waterproof but they are definitely splashproof. I’ve had one for seven years now and can confirm I love it just as much now as I did the day I bought it. This is a purchase you seriously won’t regret.
COS Oversized Quilted Crossbody, $159 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Viral; cute and unique design; spacious; two hidden zip pockets; inner zip pocket; versatile.
What to consider: No laptop sleeve compartment; no structure; weighs down when overfilled and heavy.
Dimensions: 40.2W x 39.6H x 22D centimetres.
Material: 100 per cent recycled polyester.
Tried and Tested by Harriet Amurao, Shopping Writer
After seeing this bag being used by K-Pop idol and it-girl, Jennie Kim, I scoured the web trying to find it and finally got my hands on the black version and it is definitely worth the hype. It's super roomy, comfortable on the shoulder and holds a lot more than you'd think.
I was pleasantly surprised after finding two hidden zip pockets which is great for putting my wallet in and other essentials that I need easy access to, and it looks cute worn crossbody or as a shoulder bag.
It's super versatile and great for work, everyday and even as a personal item bag for travelling. I will say though, the bag easily weighs down with a laptop and looks bulky if it's filled with a lot of things - so do keep that in mind.
You can also pick up the Blue or Brown colourway.
BEST LEATHER TOTE BAGS
Maison De Sabre The Zipped Soft Tote, $379 at Maison de Sabre
Why we love it: Sleek design; inner pockets; semi-structured; sturdy straps; zip fastening; perfect for work.
What to consider: No laptop compartment; expensive.
Dimensions: 35W x 28H x 13D centimetres
Material: 100 per cent Full grain European leather
Colour: Black Caviar.
What You Need To Know
The top leather pick goes to this classic tote from Maison De Sabre. Yes, it’s simple but it ticks all the boxes. Roomy enough without being bulky, it has a classic style and sturdy handles to carry all the things you need to get through the day. It’s big enough to hold a laptop and there are two internal pockets for smaller items.
The Studio Bag, $427 at Everlane
Why we love it: Chic and minimal; bucket-style bag; adjustable strap; inner pocket.
What to consider: No laptop compartment; snap button closure - no zipper; expensive.
Dimensions: 25W x 33H x 16D centimetres.
Material: 100 per cent Leather.
Colour: Black; Light Taupe; Cognac; Porcini Taupe.
What You Need To Know
Made from premium leather, this beautiful sleek tote bag is definitely an investment – but if you use a tote everyday, it’s worth buying a good one that will last. This one from Everlane features an adjustable shoulder strap, snap button closure, and an inner and outer pocket.
BEST FAUX LEATHER TOTE BAGS
Peta and Jain Saint Tote Bag, $62.97 (down from $89.95) at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Sleek design; spacious; pebbled finish; inner zip pocket; affordable.
What to consider: No laptop compartment; snap button closure - no zipper; thin handles - may be uncomfortable.
Dimensions: 35W x 31.5H x 12D centimetres.
Material: 100 per cent Polyurethane.
Colour: Black Pebble.
What You Need To Know
If you’re after a roomy bag that won’t break the bank, this tote from Peta and Jain is the one for you. Made from 100 per cent PU leather, it has a pebbled finish, gold-toned hardware, twin straps, a detachable key-ring tag, buttoned fastening and an internal zip pocket. Equal parts chic and minimal, this bag is a must-have for carrying all your essentials for work or everyday.
Basque Ajay Zip Top Tote Bag, $90.97 (down from $129.95) at Myer
Why we love it: Great pop of colour; internal pockets; outer zip pocket; middle zip compartment; zip fastening.
What to consider: May not fit big laptops.
Dimensions: 26W x 26H x 13D centimetres.
Material: 100 per cent Polyurethane.
Colour: Red; Tan; Black; Stone.
What You Need To Know
A little pop of colour never hurts and this tote bag by Basque is perfect. Made from PU leather, this gorgeous bag features two long top handles with light gold-toned hardware, zip fastening, inner slip pockets for your wallet and credit cards, outer zip pocket, and a middle zip compartment. It’s a great alternative to the classic black tote, and durable enough for work and beyond.
"Great bag for both work and the weekend - I love this bag. Great price and it does exactly what I need it to do. It can take a small laptop, handles my clutter (2 phones, purse and cosmetics) as well as my diary. Opens well so you can see everything and is balanced, it does not fall over!" one wrote.
BEST TOTE BAGS FOR TRAVEL
The ReNew Transit Weekender, $162 at Everlane
Why we love it: Stylish and reliable; multiple ways to carry - crossbody, shoulder or in-hand; padded laptop sleeve that fits 15" laptops; exterior zip pocket; two water bottle holders; outer pockets.
What to consider: Light colourway may get dirty easily; no inner pockets; no structure.
Dimensions: 49.5W x 36H x 18.5D centimetres.
Material: 100 per cent Recycled Polyester with water-resistant finish.
Colour: Warm Quartz; Slate Grey; Kalamata; Warm Charcoal; Black.
What You Need To Know
Made from 100 per cent recycled polyester and featuring a padded laptop sleeve, two water bottle holders, exterior zip pocket and a luggage handle pass-through, this bag seriously is the GOAT when it comes to travel totes. It also comes in four other colours. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve watched the video on the site showing how much it can fit.
It has an average rating of 4.7 stars, with reviews raving about its functionality.
“This bag looks professional but has all the flexibility of a duffel bag. It holds a ton of stuff and the pockets make it easy to keep organised. The shoulder strap is adjustable which is nice, I can carry it in on shoulder with a shorter strap or like a cross body with a longer strap,” wrote one five-star review.
Another said: “This bag held enough clothes for a seven day trip to Texas, it is amazing! Easy to pack, fits nice in the car, and is comfortable carrying. What more can you want? I actually bought two other colours to store clothes in at the top of my closet. They’re that good.”
forestfish Duffle Tote Bag, $27.99 at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: Affordable; luggage sleeve; multiple pockets; roomy; waterproof finish.
What to consider: Some reviewers say they've had issues with the zipper; had trouble with sliding the bag over the suitcase handle.
Dimensions: 41W x 35H x 14D centimetres.
Material: Nylon.
Colour: Black; Green; Grey; Pink.
What You Need To Know
This bag from forestfish is a traveller’s lifesaver. Featuring a high-quality, water-resistant washed nylon exterior and secure zipper, this bag excels in durability. It' the perfect size for travelling - not too big and not too small, and there are a few pockets for organisation. It’s also been designed with a trolley sleeve so you can slide it onto a luggage for effortless transportation while on your adventures.
BEST CANVAS TOTE BAGS
Everyday Large Tote, $175 at July
Why we love it: Great quality; versatile; multiple ways to carry - shoulder or in-hand; inner 16" laptop pocket; drink bottle holder; multiple pockets; luggage sleeve; machine washable.
What to consider: Light colourways may get dirty easily; expensive; some reviewers say the zipper gets stuck.
Dimensions: 41W x 30H x 16.5D centimetres.
Material: 100 per cent Cotton with TPU coating.
Colour: Black; Natural; Dark Brown; Butter Yellow; Soft Grey.
What You Need To Know
Just like the name suggests, this July tote will be your go-to for everyday. It’s made from 100 per cent cotton canvas and offers a detachable internal drink bottle holder, internal hanging zip pocket, external pocket on the front, two sets of straps so you can carry it two ways, hidden QuickPass magnetic pocket for sensitive items and an internal 16-inch laptop pocket. It’s the bag that does and carries it all, and it’s perfect for work too. Not to mention, it’s coated for easy clean ups and machine washable.
Marc Jacobs The Large Tote Bag, $435 at Farfetch
Why we love it: Iconic 'The Tote Bag' logo; stylish; versatile; spacious; inner pockets.
What to consider: Light colourways may get dirty easily; expensive.
Dimensions: 42W x 34H x 16D centimetres.
Material: 100 per cent Cotton.
Colour: Beige.
What You Need To Know
For the best canvas tote bag you’ll have for years, it’s pretty hard to beat this iconic Marc Jacobs number. It’s large and spacious inside, features a top zipper closure to protect your essentials and is designed with a hanging zip and slip pockets for your valuables. While it’s quite large, it actually folds down flat so it can be easily packed into a suitcase. The Iconic stocks the same bag in mini and medium size. It also comes in black too if you’re worried about getting the beige dirty.
BEST COTTON TOTE BAG
Australian Cotton Printed Heritage Shopper, $69.95 at Country Road
Why we love it: Casual and stylish; spacious; zip fastening for security; twin wide handles.
What to consider: No compartments or internal pockets; no structure; no lining.
Dimensions: 36W x 34.5H x 20D centimetres.
Material: 100 per cent Cotton.
Colour: Navy; Chambray; Black; Rose; Cloud; Hunter Green; Pink Meringue; Pebble; Dark Pistachio.
What You Need To Know
This soft cotton tote is a favourite among Aussies on-the-go. The medium-to-large size is not too big that it’s overwhelming but it’s sizeable enough for your daily essentials (and then some). Many users have commented on the bag’s versatility.
“This bag is such a sleek and timeless design,” one person wrote. “This bag has plenty of room to fit anything you might need. I use it as a work bag and it comfortably fits my laptop, notebooks, makeup bag, water bottle etc. I have also used it as an overnight bag.”
You can choose from seven dreamy hues, including a refreshing baby pink, a cactus green and a classic black. The only downside is that it doesn’t come with any pockets so if this doesn’t faze you, then we think you’ve just met your new BFF.
BEST COLOURFUL TOTE BAGS
Damson Madder Buon Appetito! Oversized Tote Bag, $75 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Fun and casual; spacious; twin wide handles.
What to consider: No structure; no fastening.
Dimensions: 36W x 34.5H x 20D centimetres.
Material: 100 per cent Cotton.
Colour: Multi.
What You Need To Know
A bag is an extension of your outfit, so why not add a fun touch with this tote from Damson Madder? Created with a foodie print all over, it's made from 100 per cent cotton and features an inner pocket, twin handles and the classic Damson Madder logo. It's perfect for the spring and summer and sure to earn you plenty of compliments.
Geo Sparkle Tote, $180 (down from $215) at Poppy Lissiman
Why we love it: Funky and stylish; spacious; zig zag detailing; detachable inner pocket; cool screen print design.
What to consider: Expensive; no compartments.
Dimensions: 57W (at base) x 41H x 12D centimetres.
Material: Recycled cotton with faux leather detailing.
Colour: Orange/Magenta; Black/Tan; Ocean/Black.
What You Need To Know
You’re sure to turn heads everywhere you go with this fun and bright tote. Made in collaboration with designer, Zandra Rhodes, this bag features the iconic geo sparkle print with zigzag detailing down the side – inspired by Zandra’s famous ‘Dinosaur Coat’ design from 1971 and it comes with a detachable pouch. Crafted from recycled cotton with faux leather detailing, this bag is full of personality.
BEST GYM TOTE BAG
Nike One Training Tote Bag, $70 at Nike
Why we love it: Multiple compartments and pockets; spacious; zip fastening; versatile.
What to consider: Some reviewers say the zip gets stuck.
Dimensions: 53W x 38H x 13D centimetres.
Material: Recycled polyester.
Colour: Black.
What You Need To Know
From work to working out, the Nike One Tote Bag is your solution to holding everything you need for the day. You can throw your laptop into the padded sleeve, a water bottle into the dedicated bottle pocket, smaller belongings in the mesh pockets and all your workout gear in the centre — and still have room to strap a yoga mat to the elastic bungee on the front exterior. And in line with Nike’s journey to zero carbon and zero waste, this tote is made from at least 50 per cent recycled polyester fibres, too.
BEST DESIGNER TOTE BAG
LOEWE Leather-trimmed Basket Bag, $945 at MyTheresa
Why we love it: Chic design; adjustable straps; perfect for spring and summer.
What to consider: No fastening; expensive; no lining.
Dimensions: 43W x 24H x 30D centimetres.
Material: Palm leaf; calf leather.
Colour: Natural/Tan.
What You Need To Know
Are you after an investment tote to splurge on simply because, well, you deserve it? If you’ve got the cash to treat yourself, then we highly recommend this one from Loewe. The brand’s signature Anagram logo debossed on a tan leather panel combined with the chic basket style creates a true statement piece that will last season after season. Aesthetics aside, this tote is made from a durable raffia with adjustable tan leather straps. If I could buy any bag, it would be this one. It is so elegant and so timeless, if you’re looking for a designer tote this is the bag for you.
BEST TOTE BAG FOR THE BEACH
Shylero XXL Beach Bag, $87.96 at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: Great reviews; waterproof; spacious; multiple compartments; bottle holder; bonus PVC pouch.
What to consider: No zip - magnetic button closure.
Dimensions: 56W x 38H x 15D centimetres.
Material: Polyester.
Colour: Dark Blue.
What You Need To Know
This popular beach bag is currently Amazon’s number one bestseller in Women’s Totes and for good reason. Crafted from waterproof canvas-like fabric, this large bag has everything a beach bag needs. From two extra outside pockets, one extra large inner zippered pocket, another smaller inner pocket and built-in keyholder and a bottle opener, we guarantee it’ll become your go-to everyday bag, for the beach and beyond.
“Excellent beach bag. Fits a lot in it, pockets are awesome so nothing gets lost at the bottom. And rope handles are so soft and comfortable,” wrote one five-star review. Another said, “Awesome bag. It’s my new favourite. I bought the xxl I put 4 beach towels and still had plenty of room. The two outside pockets are great, that’s where I put my sunscreen. There is an inside zipper pocket and two more open pockets that are deep.”
BEST CONVERTIBLE BACKPACK TOTE BAG
Alf The Label Luxe Sophia Convertible Tote, $307.97 (down from $439.95) at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Convertible backpack - tote and shoulder bag; sleek design; multiple pockets; versatile.
What to consider: Expensive.
Dimensions: 30W x 35H x 12D centimetres.
Material: Top grain leather.
Colour: Stone.
What You Need To Know
Is it a tote? Is it a backpack? Well, it’s both! Crafted from high-quality pebbled leather with brushed gold hardware, this bag from Alf the Label features a top shoulder bag handle but also comes with two adjustable and detachable woven straps that can easily convert this tote into a backpack. It’s designed with two external utility pockets on the front and a slider pocket large enough to fit an iPad. Plus, the interior has three pockets including one specifically made to hold a drink bottle.
BEST ORGANISER FOR TOTE BAGS
LEXSION Felt Purse Bag Organiser Insert, $17.47 at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: Convenient for keeping bags organised; affordable.
What to consider: Expensive.
Dimensions: 23W x 15H x 13D centimetres.
Material: Felt.
Colour: Beige; Pink; Rosy; Black.
What You Need To Know
While not technically a tote, we desperately needed to bring this organiser to your attention because it will literally Marie-Kondo the way you carry all your essentials.
Simply fit it inside your tote bag and voila — your belongings can now be neatly arranged in their own compartments so you’ll never misplace anything. It is available in 21 different colourways and five sizes, ranging from a medium to an extra-large so there’s one for everyone and their favourite tote.
Genius? We – and over 9,680 Amazon reviewers – think so. “I just got my purse organiser. I was expecting something of a lower quality, but it is actually very good quality. Sturdy construction. PLENTY of Pockets! I was able to successfully transfer all of my various cards, notebooks, beauty products and odds and ends into my new organiser and into my new purse successfully with plenty of room left over,” says one five-star review. Others love how they fit in their designer bags like the cult Louis Vuitton tote. “Makes it so much easier to store and find things in my handbag. LV should make one.” Another wrote, “This brand makes some of the best organisers for luxury tote bags. Anytime I buy my wife one of the fancy purses she likes, Marc Jacobs, Louis Vuitton, etc; if it’s a tote style handbag I always make sure and buy her one of these to go along with the purse.”
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A TOTE BAG
There are several factors you need to consider when purchasing the best tote bag for yourself.
Purpose: What will you be using it for?’ Will it be for everyday use, travel, work, school, groceries or the beach? Determining this will narrow down your selection, giving you a better idea of the size, material and budget to look out for.
Material: Do you like canvas, leather, suede or cotton? Do you need the material to be able to fold down or are you after a structured look? Do you need it to be waterproof? Is vegan leather more appealing?
Colour: Black and beige tote bags are the most popular as they’re the easiest to style with any look. If you work in a corporate setting and intend to use your tote bag for work, a subtle colour would work better. However, if you’re all about colour, selecting a tote with bold patterns, prints and hues will instantly accompany your style.
Compartments: How many pockets would you like your tote bag to have? Some come with none or only a few interior pockets while others come with pockets on the exterior and interior, detachable pouches, slip pockets, pockets specifically designed to hold water bottles and so forth.
Budget: You can certainly purchase tote bags for under $50, however, these probably won’t be the most durable. On the other hand, a designer tote bag will be a lifetime investment but it will leave a dent in your wallet. Whatever your budget, know that there is a tote bag out there for you.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
To help you find the perfect tote bag for carrying your essentials, our team of experienced writers spent hours researching products we deemed worthy of including in this article. We find out what factors make a good product by talking to experts, reviewing test results and analysing thousands of customer reviews. From budget to premium, we’ve rounded up the best tote bags in the market.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHY ARE TOTE BAGS POPULAR?
Tote bags are adored by many because they’re stylish, durable and comfortable to carry. Whether you’re using a tote bag for work, travel or shopping, a tote bag will help make your trip hassle free. They’re also considered an eco-friendly option as they help reduce the use of plastic bags. Plus, you can even purchase tote bags made from recycled materials or vegan alternatives. No matter your fashion preferences, you can find a tote bag in a colour, print and design that attracts you.
SHOULD I BUY A LEATHER OR CANVAS TOTE BAG?
One of the most common dilemmas when purchasing a tote bag is the debate between canvas and leather. Each type of fabric comes with its own advantages and disadvantages and the best one for you will depend on certain needs.
Canvas is much lighter and easier to carry, requires minimal maintenance, it’s eco-friendly and it’s durable and won’t tear as easily. However, from a fashion point of view, canvas may come across as more casual than formal.
Contrastingly, leather is considered one of the most elegant fashion materials and has long been the first preference over other materials because it offers the wearer many years of service. It’s also sturdy enough to handle heavy weights and endure rough handling, it doesn’t catch dirt easily and it only gets softer (read: more refined) with age. In saying this, it requires more maintenance than canvas and even professional repairing for more serious damage. it absorbs water quickly, it isn’t eco-friendly and of course, it’s generally more expensive.
So, to determine whether you should opt for canvas or leather, ask yourself the following: which one is more appealing, what is the occasion I’m going to be wearing the bag for, how well am I able to maintain my goods, what attire will I be wearing it with and how much am I willing to spend?
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