A Guide to Shopping for Tote Bags

Tote bags. So many of us have them, but how much thought do we put into their purchase? Totes can usually be found in museum gift shops, souvenier stalls and stores and at our favorite retailers, where they adorn a variety of designs and logos. They also come in a variety of shapes and materials, making some bags built better than others from the get-go. While tote bags don't have a specific formula you need to follow for finding the ultimate bag, there are some key details to notice before deciding to purchase a bag. 

The dimensions are the most important element of a good tote bag. Although there isn't a one size fits all equation, there are bags you can tell aren't going to work. Too small is basically a purse without pockets, too big starts feeling like a beach bag. If you're a student, the most important dimension is the length, as you want your laptop to fit in it. If you're good putting your laptop in vertically, most will be the right size for you, but if you have a larger device or want to put it in lengthwise, you'll need to look for wider bags. 

Alongside dimensions comes strap length and width. This is where many find a greater range of disparity, as some bags have short straps that hardly fit around your shoulder, while others continue for what feels like miles. There are also a variety of methods straps may be adhered to the tote, some of which are more durable than others. The less contact the strap has with the bag and thread, the weaker it will be. 

The material of the bag is right next to the dimensions of the bag in level of importance. There isn't a certain fiber or weave structure that will do better than others, but usually you can tell by the feel of a bag. Many cheap canvases will be almost sheer, whereas a high quality bag will let in minimal to no light. You can also look for certain sustainable practices, such as eco cotton, in the fabric of the bag.

All that being said, the reason we're buying the bag is for one of two reasons - to hold onto a memory or for functionality. Either way, you want it to be a design you like. While totes aren't being washed on a wear-by-wear basis, they may need to be washed on occasion. Certain prints will not hold up well to washing or drying and may require special care to keep in good condition. Some screen prints may also crack with wear, so if this is a look you are not happy with, cheaper prints may rise issues. 

Something else you may want to look out for is any extra details. This could be anything from pockets to closures to extra straps. While these are not necessary in all tote bags, they can certainly be a plus - after all, your things can get lost pretty easily

Purchasing a tote doesn't need to be a high stress thing. Usually these are cheap, durable bags that hold both necessities and memories. A certain bag or color way may remind you of a time or a place in your life, or you'll find the perfect multifunctional piece that fits your everyday life.

Here are a few bags I have come to love over the years: