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The best tote bags have come a long way from their humble beginnings. The word tote, meaning “to carry by hand,” has been around for centuries, but the bag as we know it didn’t emerge until 1944 when L.L.Bean debuted the Bean Ice Carrier: a double-handled canvas bag designed to lug ice blocks. Fabricated from the double-layered material used in conveyor belts, its oatmeal-colored shape could bear up to 500 pounds of weight—ultimately solidifying the tote’s status in the pantheon of carryalls. You need a large tote when you need to carry a ton of stuff.
Over the decades, tote bags have evolved from practical workhorses into cultural currency, adapting to reflect the shifting identities of their carriers. In 1965, the Bean Ice Carrier was reinvented as the iconic L.L.Bean Boat and Tote, a taller and arguably more fashionable version that became one of its bestsellers. By the 1980s, totes were utilized as promotional swag, with the Strand Book Store’s original canvas tote bag becoming one of the first of many totes stamped with logos and brand information.
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Today, totes are social signals. The ubiquitous New Yorker tote became the uniform of the chic intellectual, and Trader Joe’s reusable bags (though around since the late ’70s) are a badge of brand loyalty. The tote is more than just a carryall; it’s a statement, a friend, and occasionally a subtle flex. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best laptop totes for every haul and hauler, from expandable carriers to minimalist designs and sustainable pieces—like our top pick, Troubadour’s Apex Everyday Tote ($199) We also have guides to the Best Laptop Backpacks, Best Camera Bags, and the Best Messenger Bags (which I'm convinced are making a comeback).
Updated February 2026: I added Troubadour's Apex Everyday Tote and overhauled our Honorable Mentions. I also removed discontinued products and updated links.
Best Laptop Tote Overall
I'm a big fan of Troubadour's craftsmanship, and the Apex Everyday Tote doesn't disappoint. Its FortiWeave fabric, spun from recycled plastic bottles, is lightweight, waterproof, and surprisingly tear-resistant. Even with the eco-friendly fabric, the vegan leather trim and metal zippers give it a luxe finish. It's available in three gender-neutral, work-ready colors (black, scree, and basalt), and Troubadour occasionally releases seasonal shades; my fiancé carries a mint green one to work every day.
As you'd expect from Troubadour, organization is on point: a padded laptop pocket with a neoprene hood, two magnetic water bottle pockets, a mesh zip pocket for small tech, and plenty of open compartments that let you keep everything exactly where you want it. On the exterior, a front pocket includes a key leash and a phone slot, while the rear pocket doubles as a trolley sleeve for travel. (Yes, it's TSA-friendly and makes for a great personal item.) Top handles are comfortable, but I'd spring the extra $19 for the adjustable, no-slip shoulder strap.
Specs Laptop Compatibility Fits a 16-inch laptop Dimensions 19.7 x 18.5 x 2 inches Materials FortiWeave fabric (from recycled plastic bottles) Care Instructions Spot clean only Warranty 5 years WIRED/TIREDWIRED- Crafted from resilient fabric designed to repel water and resist wear and tear
- Features a plethora of interior and exterior pockets, including a trolley sleeve for travel
- Protected by a five-year guarantee covering manufacturing defects
TIRED- Currently available in just three color options
- The adjustable shoulder strap isn't included and must be purchased separately
- Only suitable for spot cleaning
Most Organized Laptop Tote
- Photograph: Julian Chokkattu
- Photograph: Julian Chokkattu
- Courtesy of Moment
- Courtesy of Moment
The Everything Travel Tote has pockets within pockets, next to pockets. Because Moment is a photography brand, its tote is made to protect your gear with low-profile base padding, water and tear-resistant nylon, and weatherproof zippers. It fits a 16-inch laptop in its allocated padded sleeve, and a perimeter of internal compartments keeps your iPad, chargers, and other accessories organized. Two water bottle holders, expandable pockets that can accommodate a 1-liter bottle or a compact travel tripod, and an external stash pochette with a key leash are also built in. Carry it by the top handles, or clip on the removable crossbody strap for longer commutes. And if the plethora of compartments still isn't enough for you, it can also hold Moment's Everything Camera Insert (4L) and Everything Tech Organizer—both sold separately—for extra storage.
WIRED editor Julian Chokkattu uses the Everything Travel Tote as a beach bag in the summertime; he comfortably packs two water bottles, towels, sunscreen, a change of clothes, his pup's food, as well as his camera and a spare lens using the included, removable divider.
Specs Laptop Compatibility Fits a 16-inch laptop Dimensions 12.6 x 18.7 x 6.1 inches Materials 420D nylon (exterior) and Velex fabric (interior) Care Instructions Spot clean only Warranty Lifetime WIRED/TIREDWIRED- Made of water and tear-resistant ripstop fabric
- Built with multiple interior and exterior compartments to keep tech organized
- Features a dual carry system with top handles and a detachable crossbody strap
TIRED- No trolley sleeve included
- Requires spot cleaning
- Color selection is limited
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The Modular Laptop Tote
The Cuyana System Tote is a modular design that’s meant to outlive fleeting trends. True to its name, it operates as a customizable system, with add-ons that let you adapt it for workdays, nights out, or whatever occasion. For example, you can invest in the Laptop Sleeve ($98), Flap Bag ($138), or Zipper Pouch ($148), which also doubles as a mini-bag when paired separately with the Adjustable Strap ($98).
If you’ve ever lost a favorite bag to snapped straps, you’ll also appreciate the high-quality Italian leather here. The handles are seamlessly integrated into the body of the bag, so you don’t have to worry about the usual weak points where threads betray you. The bag snaps closed at the top (no zipper), so if that is a deal breaker, consider the Classic Easy Zipper Tote ($328).
Specs Laptop Compatibility Fits a 13 or 16-inch laptop, depending on model Dimensions 10 x 13.25 x 5 inches (13-inch); 11 x 19 x 5.5 inches Materials Pebbled or croc-embossed leather Care Instructions Wipe clean with a damp cloth Warranty 2 years WIRED/TIREDWIRED- Crafted from LWG-certified Italian leather
- Modular design lets you customize it to your routine and needs
- Add-on accessories can be used independently as laptop sleeves and pouches
TIRED- Snap closure doesn't provide much security
- Limited to spot cleaning
- Add-on accessories are sold separately and add to the overall cost
Best Leather Tote
The Alex Laptop Bag Set feels rich. Crafted from LWG-certified Italian leather, it's structured, and though stiff at first, it softens with use. A tan suede interior keeps contents visible, and there's one wide zippered pocket and two open compartments to organize your belongings. There's also an exterior back pocket for small essentials and a discreet bottom zipper that converts the back panel into a trolley sleeve. The Alex also comes with a matching laptop envelope sleeve, which I've found a little snug. It's just the right fit for a 15-inch MacBook Air (no case, though) and is designed with a fold-over top and magnetic snap closure. There's also an open back pocket for documents, which is a lovely touch but, again, a little tight.
It's not the roomiest tote—I wouldn't use it for a full day at the office if you carry a ton of gear—but it's the perfect laptop bag and a statement piece for meetings, work dinners, or business travel where you just need the basics. For an additional $40, you can also customize it with your name or initials. Leatherology also offers the Horizontal Bag without the laptop sleeve for $295 and a Vertical Work Tote model for $310.
Specs Laptop Compatibility Fits a 15-inch laptop Dimensions 10.75 x 17.75 x 4.25 inches; laptop sleeve: 13.85 x 10.2 inches Materials LWG-certified silver Italian leather Care Instructions Read Leatherology’s extensive guide to leather care Warranty 1 year WIRED/TIREDWIRED- Made from LWG-certified Italian leather that is scratch and water-resistant
- Includes a removable sleeve for your laptop and paper documents
- Designed with a luggage pass-through for business trips
TIRED- Colors are very limited
- Demands a bit of upkeep and must be spot cleaned
- Capacity is modest and won't accomodate laptops over 15 inches
For Digital Nomads
This is my just-right bag. It has a modest 11-liter capacity, so it’s not likely to damage my shoulder or spine with overloading. It can carry everything I need for a work or plane trip all day, from a 13-inch MacBook, my half-size Nalgene, a Kindle, and a half-bag of tortilla chips (you know, just some light afternoon snacks). The durable, bluesign-certified 630-denier ballistic nylon has stayed remarkably fresh-looking over several long overseas flights and trips, but I have also accidentally dunked it into various foul-smelling liquids (don’t ask), dumped it into a sink with some no-rinse soap, and had it come out looking brand-new.
The handles are 11 inches long, so long enough for me to comfortably tuck the bag under my shoulder but not thin enough to cut into my skin. The zippers are big coil zippers instead of toothed ones, so I don’t tear my knuckles when I carelessly jam my hand into the pocket. It stands upright on its own, so I can organize the interior, and the pockets are also just right—for example, only two pen slots (who needs more than two pens?). There's also a luggage pass-through so you can put it on top of your carry-on. Finally, it’s handmade by Tom Bihn, which sews and designs all the bags in Seattle, so the components are top-of-the-line. —Adrienne So
Specs Laptop Compatibility Fits a 13-inch laptop Dimensions 14 x 10 x 4.5 inches Materials 630 denier ballistic nylon (exterior) and 200D Halcyon or 210D Cerylon (lining) Care Instructions Hand-wash with soap, rinse thoroughly, and lay it flat on top of a towel to dry Warranty Lifetime WIRED/TIREDWIRED- Made from durable, weather-resistant nylon that withstands daily wear
- Packed with versatile pockets to keep tech organized
- Designed with ergonomic top handles and a trolley sleeve for travel
TIRED- Limited to three color options
- Won't fit laptops above 13 inches
- Requires hand washing only
Best Under $50
The Baggu Duck Tote is the market tote for your Sunday farmer's market run or a trip to your local indie bookstore. While the classic vertical tote is beloved, the horizontal design fits larger laptops (up to 15 inches) and still has room for a 32-ounce water bottle, a book, a phone, and other compact essentials. Unfortunately, there's no built-in laptop sleeve, and the interior is essentially one open cavity with just a small pocket for quick access. It is, however, designed with a 20-inch adjustable strap, so you can carry it by the top handles or sling it across your body for hands-free convenience.
Currently, the Zip Duck Tote comes in black and a selection of patterns, such as leopard print, natural grid, and embroidered florals. Pricing ranges from $42 to $48, depending on the print you purchase. Former reviewer Brenda Stolyar loves her vertical Zip Duck Bag. She had been looking for a lightweight bag that was comfortable to wear with a winter coat, and it’s been the only bag she’s worn since. Plus, it’s machine-washable—a huge win for anyone susceptible to coffee spills and stains.
Specs Laptop Compatibility Fits a 15-inch laptop Dimensions 12.5 x 17 x 4.25 inches Materials Cotton canvas (65 percent recycled) Care Instructions Machine washable Warranty 1 year WIRED/TIREDWIRED- Upgraded with a zip-top closure for extra security
- Includes adjustable crossbody strap and top handles for versatile carry
- Machine washable
TIRED- Minimal internal organization and no dedicated laptop sleeve
- Not compatible with 16-inch devices
- Models skew toward bold prints; very limited neutral colorways
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Compare Top 6 Tote Bags
| Product | WIRED | TIRED | Laptop Compatibility | Colors | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Troubadour Apex Everyday Tote | Durable fabric designed to repel water and resist wear and tear. A plethora of exterior and interior pockets, including a trolley sleeve for travel. Protected by a five-year guarantee covering manufacturing defects. | Limited colorways. The adjustable shoulder strap must be purchased separately. Spot clean only. | Fits a 16-inch laptop | 3 (black, basalt, scree) | $199 |
| Moment Everything Tech Tote | Water and tear-resistant ripstop fabric. Multiple interior and exterior compartments. A dual carry system with top handles and a detachable crossbody strap. | No trolley sleeve included. Spot clean only. Limited colorways. | Fits a 16-inch laptop | 4 (black, olive, gray, navy) | $150 |
| Cuyana System Tote | LWG-certified Italian leather. Modular design lets you customize it to your routine. Add-on accessories can be used independently. | Snap closure doesn't provide much security. Spot clean only. Add-on accessories are sold separately. | Fits a 13 or 16-inch laptop, depending on model | 6 (black, cappuccino, dark olive, stone, dark chestnut, mocha) | $358 or $378 |
| Leatherology Alex Laptop Bag Set | LWG-certified Italian leather that is scratch and water-resistant. Includes a removable sleeve for a laptop and documents. Designed with a luggage pass-through. | Limited colorways. Demands upkeep, spot clean only. Modest capacity. | Fits a 15-inch laptop | 1 (black with light gold hardware) | $495 |
| Tom Bihn Nomad 11 | Durable, weather-resistant nylon that withstands daily wear. Versatile pockets to keep tech organized. Ergonomic top handles and a trolley sleeve for travel. | Limited colorways. Won't accommodate larger laptops and devices. Hand wash only. | Fits a 13-inch laptop | 3 (raspberry/moss, black/northwest sky, mars red/dusk) | $194 |
| Baggu Horizontal Zip Duck Bag | Zip-top closure for extra security. Adjustable crossbody strap and top handles for versatile carry. Machine washable. | Minimal internal organization and no dedicated laptop sleeve. Not compatible with 16-inch devices. Models skew toward bold prints; very limited neutral colorways. | Fits a 15-inch laptop | 8 (black, leopard, natural grid, teddy bear, Hello Kitty, painted wildflower, embroidered get ready with me, embroidered ditsy floral) | $42-48 |
Honorable Mentions
Tory Burch Perry Tote for $395: The Perry Tote is another one of those designer bags that transcends trends and functions as a fashionable work tote. Much like Leatherology's Alex Laptop Bag Set, I wouldn't use it as a lunch bag, but it's definitely the type that radiates authority when you want to make an impression. Perhaps a coffee shop date? Made from Italian pebbled leather, it wears incredibly well over time. You can also take off the logo charm. It features a zippered laptop compartment in the center, plus three slip pockets to keep your possessions in order.
Nordstrom Le Pliage for $165: I spent most of my high school and college dodging the Longchamp Le Pliage hype. But when my mom handed down her well-loved Le Pliage tote, I finally got it. This tote is the equivalent of a classic white tee: timeless, versatile, and built to last. This bag is roomy enough to fit all the travel essentials—laptop, notebook, snack stash—without feeling bulky. Also, it’s inspired by origami, so it's packable if you need to stash it in your carry-on bag.
Cozy Earth Waxed Canvas Tote for $68: If you’re into minimalistic, functional fashion with a hint of “quiet luxury,” this 12-ounce waxed canvas tote delivers just that. Aesthetically, think Yeezy brand circa 2017 (minus the antisemitism). I love mine in washed navy, but the earthy tones—cedar brown, palm green, and taupe—are just as fashionable. It’s durable enough to endure a grocery store spree, an overnight trip, or double as a beach bag. The design is simple but still thoughtful: exterior pockets for easy access (keys, phone, an emergency snack) and two interior ones (including a zippered compartment) for keeping your valuables sorted.
Peak Design Everyday Tote for $160: The first time I subbed in this tote for my usual computer bag—at a youth basketball tournament—a dozen parents clocked it as a cooler. “I thought you had brought drinks,” a friend said, dejected. To their credit, this bag does look a lot like a cooler with its fold-down top and smooth 400D nylon canvas shell. Designed for camera gear (but handy for any kind of gear), it’s got removable divider cubbies that are the perfect size for lenses, adapters, and accessories, as well as external lashing for tripods. The main opening flips up to open with a magnetic closure, and there are front and back pockets and a section for a laptop. A detachable cross-body strap is included if you don’t want to carry it by the handles. I appreciate its versatility—unisex, water-resistant, and a great matching companion to Peak Design’s Roller Pro carry-on. The only issues I had with it during my testing period were the fact that it doesn’t have a spacious main compartment—it’s a tight fit, and I didn’t find it easy to take things in and out—and that the straps weren't very comfortable to wear as a shoulder bag. —Kat Merck
Fjallraven Kånken Totepack for $105: We love the Kånken backpack. Its Totepack is essentially the same bag, but it can convert from a tote to a backpack. The downside is its size, with only a 13-inch laptop pocket and two side pockets for water bottles or a small umbrella—but they're tight, so don't expect to fit a 1L Nalgene in there.
Cuyana Classic Easy Zipper Tote for $328: This lightweight Italian leather tote bag is a fashionable and practical choice for commuting if you don’t need a lot of space or compartments. It’s large enough to hold a 16-inch laptop along with some other essentials. Just like the System Tote, you can personalize it with snap-on accessories, such as a tote insert or an adjustable strap that attaches to its D-rings. Plus, it features a discreet zip-top that keeps your items secure, which is great for preventing theft or stuff from falling out. With this work bag, I’m mostly concerned with protecting my electronics inside because of the lack of structure.
Ölend Ona Soft Bag for $115: The Ölend Ona Soft Bag is puffy, vibrant, and offered in a rainbow of colors. Made from water-resistant nylon, it’s a clever twist on the standard tote, designed to stretch its usefulness with every new outfit or occasion. You can wear it four different ways: as a tote, handbag, crossbody, shoulder bag, or even a backpack. The Soft Bag also includes adjustable side straps. While it fits laptops up to 16 inches, I wouldn't risk stashing my laptop here because there's no dedicated sleeve. But the external zipper pocket is a playful touch for stashing small essentials.
Dagne Dover Petra Convertible Tote for $300: The Petra is made from recycled polyester and plastic bottles. It's durable and huge—it fits a 16-inch laptop and is almost 17 inches tall. It's probably too big for an everyday bag, but it's a solid weekender. The hardware is heavy-duty metal, and the laptop compartment is padded. For parents, this is also a decent diaper bag.
How I Test Tote Bags
We scoured both timeless classics and newcomers, considering everything from capacity to comfort to sustainability. To find the best tote bags, we put each contender through a real-world boot camp. Over the course of several weeks (in some cases, years), we loaded up each bag with everything from laptops and books to groceries and gym gear. We tested the totes’ durability in extreme weather conditions: Portland rain, Chicago snow, and New York summer heat. Organization is key, too, so we made sure each tote was intuitive to pack.
- Materials: We prioritized durability, quality, and sustainability, and we included eco-friendly brands for environmentally conscious consumers. We also made sure to include an array of fabrics for stylistic variability.
- Design: We scrutinized every pocket, compartment, and zipper for usability. When it comes to design, we paid attention to the details: interior fabric choices that make contents easy to see, convenient pocket placement, and hardware choices like zippers and zipper pulls. We also paid attention to key design elements, such as the handle length and overall structure.
- Comfort: No one wants straps that dig into their shoulders, so we paid close attention to how each bag felt when fully loaded.
- Price: We considered how each bag stacked up against its price point, ensuring that the quality justified the cost.
What Am I Testing Next?
I'll be testing The North Face Base Camp Voyager Tote for $95, Quince Weatherproof Utility Tote for $65, Bellroy Tokyo Tote for $139, Timbuk2 Scholar Convertible Tote Backpack for $109, TomToc Versatile-T23 Laptop Tote Bag 12.5L for $70, Osprey Daylite Tote Pack for $95, and Herschel Supply Co. Kaslo Tech Tote for $118.
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