best travel beach bags

23 Packable Beach Bags for Your Summer Vacation

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Whether you’re hopping on a plane en route to a dreamy, faraway beach or road tripping for a closer-to-home sandy retreat, packing the right bag helps ensure you have just what you need to make your trip to the beach as easy and relaxing as possible. Of course, a solo traveler’s idea of the best beach bag can be quite different from someone on a family vacation who is in charge of carrying everything for everyone . We’ve got both of those needs covered, and everything in between.

To help you narrow down the perfect beach bag for your next trip, we’ve gathered 23 of our favorites, from oversized totes to classic straw bags. We’ve made sure to include a variety of different sizes, materials, colors, and price ranges to ensure you find the right match for your beach vacation. Some of our top finds include a lightweight and packable multi-pocket tote from Lululemon; a Sea Bags bucket bag made from recycled sails that is specifically made for seashell-hunters; and a waterproof structured tote from Rux with all the organization you could ever need.

Scroll through to see all of our finds or jump right to the section that suits your beach needs:

Packable beach bags

Classic totes, structured beach bags, small beach bags.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Madison Flager.

Finding something that lies flat in your suitcase can be super helpful when it comes to saving on precious space and weight in your carry-on . But packable finds don’t have to be limited to the reusable grocery store shopping bag. We love the Ogunquit Beach Bag, which is made from recycled sails and despite its roominess, lies completely flat (save for the unique rope handles). The Piccadilly Bag, made from recycled plastic bottles, can be worn over the shoulder, as a backpack, or held by its handles.

There are certain images associated with a day at the beach, and a classic tote bag with towels peeking out from the top is one of them. But the tote has evolved from the neutral canvas look. Take the Rothy’s Lightweight Tote that comes in more colors than we can count and is completely washable without losing its shape (I had to get the bright pink dragonfruit color to match my Rothy’s dragonfruit loafers ), for example. The Banana Republic Slouchy straw bag screams beach bag, matches any swimsuit, and holds a lot more than you think. For those who need even more space, the SMMT Powder tote bag is available in two sizes with a variety of interior and exterior pockets and a waterproof shell.

For those beachgoers who pack snacks and lunches that taste so much better when they’re not smooshed, or for anyone who wants to keep their items from possibly getting stepped on, structured totes offer protection for your favorite beach possessions. The Rux Essentials Set is a brilliant concept that's part bag and part box, with removable waterproof divider bags and compartments to keep items separate. Simple Modern’s water-resistant rubber material makes the Gateway bag easy to clean after a sandy day and the built-in holes give wet clothing a chance to breathe.

When you need your hands free (say, if you're biking over to the beach), a backpack makes for a great option. The Atlantic Daytrip backpack comes in bright colors and can transition from being used as your in-flight personal item to your beach day pack. On a recent trip to Portugal , I didn’t go a day without using my Jack Wolfskin’s Athmos pack, which held everything my teen and I needed as we put in almost 20,000 steps touring various cities, but also was used to store extra sunblock and water for our leisurely stops at the beach.

Not everyone spends the entire day at the beach. If you're heading over just to sit in the sand or take in a sunset, you may want something smaller that can store a few essentials and is versatile enough to take on your next adventure, like the Monos Metro sling, a crossbody that comes in both nylon and vegan leather and features a hidden back pocket to keep your phone, ID and money safe. For an elevated, chic option that pairs well with any linen or crotchet cover-up you're wearing to the hotel restaurant or bar, the Banana Republic Half-Moon shoulder bag is equal parts stylish and functional.For the shell-collectors, Sea Bags has the aptly named Beachcomber bucket bag with a mesh bottom, so you can leave at least some of the sand behind. Additionally, the bag has four interior mesh pockets, should you simply need a small beach bag with a fun shape and one-of-a-kind hemp handles (all ”imperfections” are on purpose, given the recycled nature of the materials).

Protect Your Trip »

The 18 best beach bags for every style.

Discover traveler-approved styles for every type of beach trip.

The Best Beach Bags

Courtesy of BOGG BAGS

Hit the beach in style with a new beach bag such as the Original Bogg Bag.

Beach season is here. Whether you're heading down the street or across the country, you'll want to have a beach bag on your beach packing list . Whether you're at the beach , by the pool or on a boat, the right bag can carry all of your essentials.

When shopping for a beach bag, give thought to the size, material and style (think: a zip-top or open-top beach tote bag), as well as how you want to carry it. For a resort stay, you may consider a fashionable option that holds a sun hat and a beach read. Elsewhere, you might want a great mesh bag so the sand can flow right out.

If you're going to be tossing items in and out frequently, an open-top tote will work well, whereas a beach backpack is an ideal hands-free choice. If you'll be traveling, a lightweight style that can be easily packed or used as your personal carry-on item may be just right.

The Top Beach Bags for 2023

To help you narrow down your options, U.S. News has selected the best beach bags in a variety of categories based on consumer reviews.

• Best Overall Beach Bag: Becokan Large Waterproof Beach Tote Bag
• Best Beach Bag Tote: Sea Bags Navy Anchor Ogunquit Beach Tote
• Best Straw Beach Bag: Mar Y Sol Samana Tote
• Best Large Beach Bag: Dejaroo Large Lightweight Tote
• Best Waterproof Beach Bag: YETI Camino 35 Carryall Tote Bag
• Best Mesh Beach Bag: Hoxis Mesh Beach Tote
• Best Beach Bag With Zip: ALOHA Collection Day Tripper
• Best Beach Bag With Pockets: SCOUT The BJ Bag Pocket Tote
• Best Beach Bag With Hat Straps: Sidney Byron Suncatcher Carryall Tote
• Best Beach Cooler Bag: OdyseaCo Beach Bag with Cooler
• Best Personalized Beach Bag: Paravel Large Cabana Tote
• Best Inexpensive Beach Bag: IKEA FRAKTA Shopping Bag
• Best Rubber Beach Bag: Original Bogg Bag           
• Best Canvas Beach Bag : L.L.Bean Boat and Tote
• Best Kids Beach Bag: Mygreen Kids Drawstring Backpack
• Best Beach Bag Backpack: BeeGreen Mesh Drawstring Bag
• Best Neoprene Beach Bag: QOGiR Neoprene Multipurpose Tote
• Best Beach Bag for Moms: SHYLERO Beach Bag

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to supply chain issues.)

Best Overall: Becokan Large Waterproof Beach Tote Bag

What sets this bag apart: This tote bag is constructed with a lightweight, waterproof material. It has a large capacity for beach essentials like towels, cover-ups and snacks. What's more, it comes in stripes or a fun tropical print, making it ideal for daytrips or exotic beach locales.

Travelers appreciate: "I love how much this bag can fit – it's almost like a Mary Poppins bag," says Erin Evans , managing editor of travel at U.S. News, who adores this Becokan tote for beach trips. "I can typically stash multiple beach towels, a change of clothes, a speaker, snacks, books and more in it at once." She also likes the interior zippered pocket for keeping your phone and keys safe, and notes the two cup holder pockets are large enough to fit water bottles or YETI or Stanley tumblers. "Plus, it's really lightweight and foldable, making it easy to pack away when you don't need it," Evans adds.

Price: $31.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Best Tote Bag: Sea Bags Navy Anchor Ogunquit Beach Tote

Courtesy of Sea Bags

What sets this bag apart: Stylish, practical and good for the environment, this handcrafted tote is made in Maine using recycled sail cloth. The water-resistant material is machine-washable and protects all of your beach gear. Featuring three interior pockets, an exterior pocket ideal for sandy flip-flops and sturdy rope handles for easy carrying, this spacious bag is 18 inches long and 14 inches tall.

Travelers appreciate: The craftsmanship, inside pockets and overall roominess of the design.

Price: $260 or less Shop now: Sea Bags | Amazon

Best Straw: Mar Y Sol Samana Tote

Courtesy of Mar Y Sol

What sets this bag apart: If you're looking for a straw bag combining fashion and function, this open-top tote does just that. Handcrafted on the island of Madagascar , this sisal tote is constructed using sustainable materials. The large bag has a seagrass lining with an interior pocket and organic leather handles. Featuring three-shade ombre stripes in a choice of six colors including aqua and yellow, each one-of-a-kind bag is accented by a raffia pompom charm.

Travelers appreciate: The fact that it's stylish, holds up well, and can fit everything travelers need for a day at the beach or out shopping.

Price: $169.10 or less Shop now: Amazon

Best Large: Dejaroo Large Lightweight Tote

What sets this bag apart: Constructed with a durable, water-resistant material in a variety of prints and colors (including leopard and royal blue), this bag has one inner pocket and seven exterior pockets where you can stow your sunglasses, sunscreen or hand sanitizer. The zippered top keeps the sand out and your valuables secured, while the comfortable straps make the tote easy to carry. This large beach bag measures 16 x 15 x 8.5 inches.

Travelers appreciate: The way the tote holds everything from a laptop to beach toys and works well for weekend trips .

Price: $29.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Best Waterproof: YETI Camino 35 Carryall Tote Bag

Courtesy of YETI

What sets this bag apart: Designed for adventure, this multifunctional tote is both waterproof and puncture-resistant, with a molded base to keep the bag upright. This beach bag boasts an abrasion-resistant surface (so those fishing lures won't damage your bag) as well as the YETI HitchPoint Grid to attach carabiners or other accessories on the exterior.

Travelers appreciate: The sturdy construction, the ability to rinse it out and the way the deployable dividers keep things upright – though some say this tote is on the heavier side for a bag of this size.

Price: $150 or less Shop now: YETI | Amazon | REI

Best Mesh: Hoxis Mesh Beach Tote

What sets this bag apart: This fashionable style goes from grocery shopping to the beach with ease. The Hoxis Mesh Beach Tote is a top-rated beach bag on Amazon for good reason. At less than $20, it's affordable and offered in an array of colors, such as coral and green.

Travelers appreciate: The way sand doesn't accumulate inside the bag, along with its roominess. It boasts enough space to hold two beach towels, swimsuits, sunglasses and a tablet. What's more, the polyester and nylon mesh is durable and comfortable to carry.

Price: $19.90 or less Shop now: Hoxis | Amazon

Best With Zip: ALOHA Collection Day Tripper

Courtesy of ALOHA Collection

What sets this bag apart: Designed with travel in mind, the ALOHA Collection Day Tripper is the ideal size for a carry-on at 19 x 14.5 inches and features an expandable zippered top to maximize space. Crafted with a special material to protect against splashes, the Day Tripper tote has an interior compartment and an exterior zippered pocket to keep your phone, wallet and boarding pass easily accessible.

Travelers appreciate: The lightweight and durable construction, roominess, and ease of packing of this bag.

Price: $74 or less Shop now: Amazon

Best With Pockets: SCOUT The BJ Bag Pocket Tote

Courtesy of SCOUT Bags

What sets this bag apart: An ideal multiuse bag, this option is made with a durable and lightweight material. There are four exterior pockets for organization and convenience, plus an interior zippered pocket to keep items like your phone or keys secure.

Travelers appreciate: "I've been using this bag as my beach bag for three summers now and it's the best bag I've ever used," says Marisa Méndez , senior editor of travel at U.S. News. "I love that it zips to keep everything inside and I appreciate the pockets on the outside to keep sunscreen within easy reach. And the best part? I just hose it down to clear out all the sand. Easy peasy."

Price: $56 or less Shop now: SCOUT Bags

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Best With Hat Straps: Sidney Byron Suncatcher Carryall Tote

What sets this bag apart: For a tote that can carry your favorite sun hat without crushing it, consider this style from Sidney Byron. Constructed with jute, this bag has exterior straps for your beach hat, along with an interior zippered pocket and an exterior back strap to trolley on your carry-on bag. There's also a coordinating pouch for personal items or to use as a clutch, and you can purchase each item alone or as a tote and pouch set .

Travelers appreciate: The hat straps and trolley sleeve, which make this bag ideal for going from the airport to the beach and everywhere in between.

Price: $115 or less Shop now: Sidney Byron

Best Cooler Bag: OdyseaCo Beach Bag with Cooler

What sets this bag apart: This two-in-one mesh beach bag with a detachable waterproof cooler allows you to stow towels, sunglasses and sunscreen separate from your cold picnic lunch. The quick-drying mesh bag has a large interior with a zippered top, two exterior pockets, two padded handles and a detachable shoulder strap. The insulated and removable cooler is designed to keep food cold for up to 12 hours with ice packs; it has space for up to 12 cans.

Travelers appreciate: The sturdy construction and detachable cooler make this combination beach bag work well for the boat, beach and pool.

Price: $32.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Read: The Best Cooler Bags

Best Personalized: Paravel Large Cabana Tote

Courtesy of Paravel

What sets this bag apart: This spill-resistant Paravel bag is constructed with sustainable EcoCraft Canvas, which is made from 30-plus upcycled plastic water bottles and protected with a more environmentally friendly silicone layer. The interior of the tote has three pockets, one of which is zippered, plus a clasp closure. The exterior is available in a choice of four color combinations, and you can personalize this bag with embroidered letters, hand-painted letters or hand-painted emojis for an extra fee, making it uniquely customizable.

Travelers appreciate: The way it's well-crafted, with wide straps that are comfortable for carrying the bag and a water-resistant finish that makes it an ideal beach or weekend option.

Price: $185 or less without monogram Shop now: Paravel

Best Inexpensive: IKEA FRAKTA Shopping Bag

Courtesy of IKEA

What sets this bag apart: For something sturdy and affordable, this IKEA design is an ideal inexpensive beach bag option. Crafted with durable polypropylene in bright blue and featuring two shoulder straps, this generously sized style measures 21.75 x 14.5 x 13.75 inches. Toss all of your beach essentials inside – and, when you're not catching some waves, you can wipe the bag clean and store it flat.

Travelers appreciate: "I'm not embarrassed to admit how much I adore this bag for family trips to the beach," says Amanda Norcross , travel content and SEO strategist at U.S. News. "It's lightweight, surprisingly durable, fits most or all of our beach gear, and is easy to hose down at the end of the day."

Price: $8.30 or less Shop now: IKEA | Amazon

Best Rubber: Original Bogg Bag

What sets this bag apart: Invented by a mom, this durable bag is both washable and waterproof. It is made of a rubber-like EVA material with a tip-proof design, sturdy sides, a nonslip bottom and shoulder straps for easy carrying. This extra-large tote measures 19 x 15 x 9.5 inches and comes with two clear accessory bags, which keep your bag organized and your essentials easy to find. The Original Bogg Bag comes in nearly three dozen color options.

Travelers appreciate: The durability, the way the bag stands upright and the fact that it can be easily washed.

Price: $169.99 or less Shop now: Bogg Bags | Amazon

Best Canvas: L.L.Bean Boat and Tote

What sets this bag apart: Classic and customizable, the L.L.Bean Boat and Tote is constructed of heavy-duty cotton canvas with double-stitched seams and reinforced handles. The iconic beach bag is handcrafted in Maine and available in multiple sizes ranging from small to extra-large. First introduced in 1944 as a way to haul ice, this durable top-handle tote is tested to hold up to 500 pounds, making it the ideal bag for going boating, heading to the lake or stocking up on beach reads at the bookstore.

Travelers appreciate: The quality construction, the classic styling and the yearslong durability. What's more, you can choose from multiple colors depending on size and add a monogram for a one-of-a-kind tote.

Price: $34.95 or less for medium Shop now: L.L.Bean

Best for Kids: Mygreen Kids Drawstring Backpack

What sets this bag apart: Little ones will love packing their sand toys, favorite snacks and sunglasses in this mesh backpack with its zippered pocket, adjustable padded straps and water bottle pocket. What's more, the backpack comes in four different colors and is adorned with your choice of a detachable or nondetachable rabbit, frog, elephant or unicorn.

Travelers appreciate: The size, which is ideal for young children to carry and easily fits a towel, goggles and water bottle, making it a good choice for swim class, the beach or the pool.

Price: $22.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Best Backpack: BeeGreen Mesh Drawstring Bag

What sets this bag apart: This packable yet roomy design is 25.2 x 18.9 inches when opened but conveniently folds into the bag's exterior pocket to store in your glove box or carry-on. Toss larger items like beach towels and flip-flops in the main compartment, then stow sunblock, goggles, your phone and your wallet in the front zippered pocket. In addition, there's a front drawstring pocket ideal for holding a reusable water bottle.

Travelers appreciate: The backpack's adjustable straps, the amount of items it can hold and the option to fold the backpack within itself for easy portability.

Price: $20.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Best Neoprene: QOGiR Neoprene Multipurpose Tote

What sets this bag apart: The QOGiR multipurpose beach bag transforms into three different styles, including a large tote or a smaller triangular silhouette. Putting a fashionable spin on function, this beach bag is constructed out of neoprene and polyester with sailing rope handles and a detachable shoulder pad for comfort. The machine-washable bag can be folded flat to toss in your carry-on bag, filled with beach essentials while on vacation and easily stowed in your suitcase when you return.

Travelers appreciate: The two interior zippered pockets, as well as the durability and versatility.

Price: $39.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Best for Moms: SHYLERO Beach Bag

What sets this bag apart: The SHYLERO Beach Bag is tear-resistant and made with a waterproof canvas-style material. Toss cover-ups, beach towels, diapers or a change of clothes in the main compartment; stow smaller items in the three inner pockets and keep sunglasses and water bottles in the roomy exterior pockets. What's more, the bag includes a bonus clear waterproof bag that can be worn as a crossbody or belt bag to keep your cellphone, money and other valuables securely on your body when you need to step away from your larger tote.

Travelers appreciate: The comfortable rope handles, zip-top design, spacious interior and durability that make this beach bag a go-to for parents.

Price: $49.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

What to Pack in a Beach Bag

• Waterproof pouch for your phone and other valuables
• Lotion toiletry bag for sunscreen, lip balm and other essentials
• Water shoes or sandals
• Beach towel
• Swimsuit or swim trunks
• Beach cover-up
• Change of clothes
• Hair scrunchies

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood is a senior travel editor with a bag obsession. She's always searching for the perfect bag for every scenario, and constantly adding to her collection of go-to bag options for the beach and beyond. To create this list of the best beach bags, she used her own experience with bags for the beach along with her retail merchandising background.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Beach Tents
• The Top Beach Wagons
• The Top Beach Chairs
• The Top Beach Resorts in the World
• The Top Weekender Bags

Cheap Tropical Vacations

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear , Beach Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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The 12 Best Beach Bags

Pack up for your day out on the sand

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Final Verdict

• What to Look For

Frequently Asked Questions

Why trust tripsavvy.

Tripsavvy / Chloe Jeong

To prep for a day at the seaside that delivers on the promise of big fun, make sure you have a beach bag that holds your stuff comfortably, tidily, and with style. Everyone’s ideal beach bag will look different. If you’re heading to the beach for a day of solo relaxation, you’ll want a solution that’s streamlined, secure, lightweight, and polished enough to be versatile. If you've got family in tow (whether you're heading straight for the sand or taking a dip in the pool first), you’ll need something large, well-organized, durable, and easily cleaned.

To find the best options for every scenario, we researched and evaluated bags based on size, fabric, pockets, and handles.

Best Overall

Dejaroo mesh beach bag.

Solid organization

The sides aren't structured

Suppose you come to the beach fully prepared for anything and need maximum space for all your gear. In that case, the Dejaroo Mesh Beach Bag has a whopping eight pockets: seven external pockets for smaller belongings like electronics, sunblock, and flip-flops, and one interior pocket. There's also a zippered section inside for keys so they don't get buried. 

There's nothing exceptionally creative about the design, but our tester found the bag more convenient for travel than a bulky canvas beach bag. She could fit several towels, extra shoes, large water bottles, and even a big camera or lunchbox in the bag. The woven mesh material is ideal for shaking sand out; however, this also means the bag isn't waterproof, and our tester noted it might not hold up well to keys, a wine opener, or other sharp objects. On the first use of the bag, we noticed fraying on the stitching around the handles, which are double-layered on top to create extra shoulder padding; however, it's held up well since then despite packing it into overstuffed suitcases several times. 

Size: 16.5 x 15 x 8.5 inches | Waterproof: No | Closure: Zipper

TripSavvy / Suzie Dundas

Best Budget

Cruise on collapsible travel tote bag.

Compact when folded down

Easy to use and carry

Big enough for large items

Keep your space clutter-free with a collapsible tote bag. The Cruise On Collapsible Tote Bag reduces to pocket size for easy travel, then expands to fit many items. Made from premium nylon for durability and easy machine washing, the bag is also waterproof, making it ideal for long days at the beach. Not to mention, the long straps make the bag lightweight and comfortable for use, so you can enjoy whatever environment you're in without adding stress to your shoulders. One downside of this tote bag is that it does not include a closure to secure your belongings, but your favorite sunglasses won't complain about the extra space.

Size: 16 x 4 x 24 inches | Waterproof: Yes | Closure: None

Best Sand-Proof

Cgear sand-free tote bag.

Lightweight

Packs up well

Sturdily constructed

Only comes in one color

Could use more compartments

After a relaxing day at the right beach , it's frustrating to come home and realize you've brought a whole bunch of sand with you. A sand-proof beach bag can help minimize the mess, both in your house and in your car. The CGear Sand-Free Tote differs from other beach bags because it's made from a patented double-layer mesh weave that allows sand to sift right through. Even if you throw in sand-covered shoes or beach toys, all that grit should fall out of the bottom of the bag the minute you pick it up.

This beach tote is made from water-resistant PVC with reinforced seams for added durability. To clean it, rinse it with water. And it's roomy enough to hold towels and toys alike. The bag has one smaller interior pocket for valuables and comes in an eye-catching blue plaid that'll be easy to spot on the beach. And, as our product tester noted, "it lies entirely flat when empty, so it's very easy to pack and store."

Unfortunately, the CGear bag doesn't totally live up to its sand-free promise due to its lack of zipper closure, allowing sand to enter from the top. Our tester plopped the bag in the sand upon arriving at the beach, and no sand got in from the bottom or the sides throughout the day. However, when a young boy ran by with a soccer ball, he kicked a big cloud of sand directly into the bag. Although it isn't fully sand-free, our tester felt it's still worth buying. 

Size: 17 x 7.5 x 15 inches | Waterproof: Resistant | Closure: None

TripSavvy / Sage McHugh

Best Splurge

Yeti camino carryall.

Multiple color options

Spacious yet easy to carry

Just as tough as their famous coolers, this rugged bag from Yeti is for serious beachgoers and boaters. It's waterproof, super durable, puncture- and abrasion-resistant, and easy to clean. A huge opening and zipped pockets with a molded base keep the bag upright and protect it from water seeping in. Some unique features in this tote are the crossbar handles across each strap for another method of carrying the bag and the hitch point grid that can be used to attach outdoor gear or your favorite beach accessories. It is available in five different colors.

"The straps aren't too long or too short—plus, I love that I can carry it with the big handles and throw it over my shoulder or pinch the parallel bars right above the lip to carry at my side," says our senior commerce editor. "It'll hold everything you need for an excursion to the beach or all the food you need for a day trip—and then some. I also use this bag for my daily grocery run since it keeps things relatively cold, and as I said, you can pack a lot (think a week's worth of groceries, plus some!)."

Size: 18 x 14 x 9 inches | Waterproof: Yes | Closure: None

Best Multipurpose

L.l.bean everyday lightweight tote.

Attractive design

Durable, but lightweight

Unstructured

Straps are a little short

For a multi-functional bag that’s great at the beach and for day-to-day use, the Everyday Lightweight Tote by L.L.Bean is an excellent option at a reasonable price. Available in three sizes—medium, large, and extra large—the bag is big enough for beach gear without being bulky, so go ahead and throw in that beach blanket. With several great colors to choose from, including burgundy, navy blue, and sunflower with contrasting stitching, it’s an easy choice for men and women. For storage, there’s a front pocket for quick grab-and-go items, and the interior has a zipped pocket with a key clip. The well-built beach bag has a zipped top, reinforced handles, and a double-layered bottom.

Size: 12 x 6 x 13 inches (M), 15 x 7.5 x 17 inches (L), 17.75 x 7.5 x 18.5 inches (XL) | Waterproof: Yes | Closure: Zipper

OdyseaCo Oahu Mesh Tote Bag

Oversized capacity

Internal organizational features

Material gets hot in the sun

This extra-large mesh bag has enough space to carry everything you need to the beach. Despite its large size, the mesh material folds up so it can easily fit into your suitcase when traveling. An internal carabiner and zippered waterproof pocket keep keys, phones, and jewelry secure. Plus, the mesh material dries quickly and allows air to flow throughout the bag, so your damp towels won't stink after a long day at the beach. However, our product tester thinks "the best feature of the Oahu Mesh Beach Bag is its sturdiness."

When we took this bag to the beach, we were able to shake out excess sand before bringing it back to the car and then the house—eliminating sand lingering on the floor for days. This is also the type of product that can go far beyond beach season and become a staple to keep in your trunk. We found it was large and durable enough for taking clothes to and from the laundromat, going grocery shopping or camping, or even lugging around sports equipment. The reinforced handles and stitching showed no signs of wear and tear after testing.

Size: 18 x 29 inches | Waterproof: No | Closure: None

TripSavvy / Brie Dyas

Best Insulated

Hydro flask 20l insulated tote.

Long-lasting material

Also comes in 35 and 8 liters

Easy maintenance

Hydro Flask's Insulated Tote is your solution to transporting food stress-free. This bag is made from durable polyester fabric and provides lightweight insulation for up to four hours—perfect for those extra-long days at the beach. Its zippers are water-resistant, and the bag's exterior is waterproof to keep moisture out and your contents dry. The collapsible design feature is ideal for travel and quick storage, while the fully lined, welded interior makes for easy cleaning. It's also great for grocery store runs, camping trips, and picnic dates and is available in six shades, including vibrant magenta, gulf blue, and a classic black.

Size: 23 x 14.5 x 5.5 inches | Waterproof: No | Closure: Snap

Best Canvas Bag

Lands’ end natural open top canvas tote bag.

Can be personalized

Comes in multiple handle lengths

Colors will get dirty quickly

Lands' End's quintessential beach bag is ideal for families and is a beloved bestseller. It's made from ultra-durable 24-ounce cotton canvas and has reinforced handles to support a heavy load. It also has a water-resistant base and trims for protection and inside pockets for organization. With size options ranging from small to extra large and with seven color choices, there's a version to suit every kind of traveler. Add a personal monogram or family name and make it your own.

Size: 13 x 5.5 x 9 inches (S), 17 x 6 x 13.5 inches (M), 22.5 x 9.5 x 17 inches (L), 26 x 10.3 x 17.5 inches (XL) | Waterproof: Resistant base | Closure: Zipper or none

Best Oversized

Lucazzi extra large utility tote bag.

Easy to carry

Doesn't zip

It may remind you of something you’d take to the grocery store or laundromat, but these oversized bags are also great to bring to the beach. At 22.75 x 10.25 x 11.75 inches, this tote is large enough to stow away towels, sunscreen, and the kids’ beach toys all in one, but it also easily collapses for you to travel with. The fabric is made from polyester, and the structure is secured with a metal wire frame and velcro straps, so the bag feels durable yet still lightweight when carrying all these items. Plus, it comes in many playful patterns. 

Size: 22.75 x 10.25 x 11.75 inches | Waterproof: No | Closure: None

Best Design

Shylero beach & pool bag.

Fun color options

Extra features

No hard bottom

The Shylero bag works well as a beach bag because it's made of durable, easily washable waterproof fabric and has an interior PVC case that's water-, dust-, and sand-proof to store phones or other valuables. In addition to being convenient, the 17 x 15 x 6-inch bag is super spacious. We also love the range of colors the beach bag comes in, its beachy rope straps, and the built-in key holder and bottle opener.

Size: 17 x 15 x 6 inches | Waterproof: Yes | Closure: Zipper or magnet

Best Backpack

Venture pal lightweight hiking backpack.

Tons of color options

Functional internal storage

Backpacks are a great way to bring towels and food to the beach because they free your hands for carrying extra essentials like a beach umbrella or folding chairs. The Venture Pal Lightweight Hiking Backpack is our favorite option in this category. The pack features a waterproof pocket within the main compartment, perfect for separating wet swimsuits from other items.

The outside is made of durable material with heavy-duty zippers, so it won't fall apart after your first outing. There are also many pockets suitable for storing car keys, sunglasses, or other small items. It measures 9 x 6.5 x 2 inches and has comfortable shoulder straps. Reviewers love how large the bag is: Many reported it could hold towels, shoes, goggles, and snorkeling gear with room to spare.

Size: 9 x 6.5 x 2 inches | Waterproof: No | Closure: Zipper

Best for Kids

Tagitary beach toy mesh beach bag.

Cost-effective

Bold and neutral colorways

Filters out sand

More for beach play than true storage

Young kids and teens will love having their own beach bag to tote around a seashell collection, beach toys, and other beach day essentials. This pack of three is super affordable and offers a range of colors to fit the preferences of everyone, even yourself. The teen size is a bit larger (to fit teen-sized items) and the adjustable strap lets them wear it over the shoulder or crossbody. Though marketed toward young people, the design shows specific touches—like an expandable base, tough, breathable mesh body, and zippered closure—that we'd expect in a bag built for adults. This could easily be used for picnics, pools, and even theme parks

Size: 9.4 x 7.9 x 2.7 inches (kids), 12.4 x 10 x 3.9 (teens) | Waterproof: No | Closure: Zipper

The Dejaroo Mesh Beach Bag is our favorite pick because of how large it is, holding all the beach-going essentials, and its ability to pack down small for travel. We like Cruise On's Collapsible Travel Tote Bag for a solid budget pick.

What to Look For in a Beach Bag

Whether you’re looking to bring just a book and a towel or gear for the whole family, you’ll want a bag to haul everything on your packing list . The ideal beach bag depends on your plan and how many people you are accommodating. If you have to hike to the beach or make several other stops that day, go for a smaller backpack or tote that can fit the essentials without weighing you down while providing more versatility. For a larger family and friends affair, look for oversized models with room for all your creature comforts.

The most traditional beach bag material, canvas, is durable and offers a classic aesthetic. If you need a waterproof bag, look for one made of nylon or polyester. Other materials offer additional benefits, such as sand-sifting mesh. Pay attention to the handles as well—braided ones look great but might bite your shoulders or hands if you’re hauling your bag for a long time, while flat cloth or canvas handles are durable and comfortable.

Pockets are a valuable feature in a beach bag. External pockets can hold liquid containers upright and compartmentalize wet and sandy items. Inside pockets can help hide and secure your valuables while keeping them accessible, so you can easily grab your car keys or phone when your hands are full. For added security, consider pockets that zip or at least snap closed.

Some of the most stylish beach bags are carried by hand. However, these aren’t always the most practical, as they prevent at least one hand from carrying other items. If you’re traveling with kids—or clutching an iced coffee or your smartphone—you’ll probably want a tote with shoulder or crossbody straps, or a backpack.

You might be attracted to a mesh bag for its sand-filtering properties, which keep it cleaner in the first place. Many beach bags can be thrown in the washing machine; others should be spot-cleaned using a damp cloth and soap to rub out any stains. More delicate bags should be air-dried. When in doubt, consult the care label or visit the brand's website.

Pack your bag with the essentials: a bottle of sunscreen , sunglasses, water, snacks, a towel, a beach hat, and dry clothes. Stash a plastic bag to keep any wet gear separated. Use your inside pockets to tuck away your keys and phone, but ideally, you’ll bring as few valuables out on the sand as possible to mitigate the risk of theft and increase your peace of mind when you're in the water.

If you’re planning to pack your beach bag in your luggage, look for one that's super light and easily foldable or able to be packed flat, such as a cotton mesh bag. Avoid bulky, rigid bags with lots of structure. Beach bags with a shoulder strap or crossbody option keep your hands free for taking pictures or consulting a map on your adventures.

The author of this article, Amber Nolan , is a travel writer located in Key West with over 10 years of experience in the travel industry. Her work has been published in USA Today, Jetsetter, Cruise Critic, Frommers, and several other travel publications. She is currently covering tourism for the local Key West newspaper, the Blue Paper. In addition to her research, we also sent several of the products to testers for their feedback. 

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• Outdoor gear

The Best Beach Bag

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

Even the lightest of packers needs to bring a few things for a day on the beach: towel, water bottle, sunscreen. And that means you also need something to carry them in.

After 10 hours of research, extensive consultation with lifelong beachgoers on staff, and an afternoon hauling loads of towels and snacks around in our eight top contenders, we’ve concluded that the L.L.Bean Boat and Tote is the best bag for lugging all your stuff to and from the beach.

If you’re the bring-everything type of beachgoer, though, check out our guide to collapsible folding wagons .

The research

Why you should trust us, our pick: l.l.bean boat and tote, upgrade pick: yeti camino 35 carryall, also great: saltwater canvas whale bag, also great: cotopaxi allpa 60l gear hauler tote, other good beach bags, how we picked and tested, the competition.

I’ve worked for Wirecutter for nearly a decade in various capacities, writing about everything from travel backpacks to camping stoves to luggage to road-trip gear to car-camping tents .

• I currently live on the North Shore of Oahu and spend a large amount of time at the beach working on our guide to the best beach and surf gear .
• I deploy our beach-tote picks to transport all the other gear I’m testing to and from the beach. I also use them for non-work-related surf and swim outings.
• This guide builds on earlier, excellent work by Eve O’Neill, who tested tote bags on the beaches of Northern California.

L.L.Bean Boat and Tote

Great in the sand.

This canvas bag, with its simple and durable design, will last a lifetime. Thanks to its lack of smaller pockets, you can easily shake out sand.

Buying Options

The L.L.Bean Boat and Tote is made in Maine of heavyweight, 24-ounce canvas, which helps it weather the elements (though it isn’t water-resistant) and allows it to stand up like a bucket even when empty. In this bag, your valuables will stay hidden from prying eyes as well as protected from sand and splashes. It features a reinforced bottom and overlapped, double-stitched seams made with nylon thread, which will resist rot better than cheap cotton thread.

The Boat and Tote comes in four sizes—small, medium, large, and extra large—and each size gives you two options for the handle length. The large bag we tested, which measures 15 by 17 by 75 inches and holds about 35 liters, shipped with that size’s standard 8-inch handles, long enough to fit over a shoulder and freeing up your hands to carry umbrellas and coolers. But it’s a tight fit; if you plan on stuffing your bag to the brim, opt for the longer, 14-inch handles to accommodate the bulk. They extend all the way around the bottom of the bag and are rated to hold 500 pounds.

The bag has no additional pockets and no zippers, but that isn’t a bad thing. Pockets fill with sand. And as Wirecutter founder Brian Lam discovered after trying—and casting aside—six different zippered bags, zippers, unless specifically designed for salt-heavy environments, oxidize and seize up quickly in ocean air. (But if you still demand closure, the Boat and Tote is also available with a zippered top .) This bag is protected by L.L.Bean’s somewhat limited satisfaction guarantee for a year.

Upgrade pick

Yeti Camino 35 Carryall

Great for wet gear and lots of stuff.

This waterproof, tough-as-nails tote is ideal for wet gear. Its puncture-resistant shell withstands abuse from tough plastic toys, which can tear other bags apart. Its interior pockets are zippered, though, and zippers don’t play well with sand.

With delayed shipping (available in teal)

(available in teal)

Price reflects in cart (available in teal)

The Yeti Camino 35 Carryall is constructed from the same material that made our best waterproof duffle pick such an obvious recommendation. The trademarked Thickskin shell is a high-density nylon coated in thick, waterproof materials that shed water and grime—it feels somewhat like a Wellington rain boot, except it’s more malleable. The bottom is made through EVA foam injection molding, which is a fancy way of saying that this bag will stand upright even while empty, so it’s easy to load and unload.

Although the Camino 35 Carryall is a touch larger than our top pick—it measures 15.2 by 18.1 by 9.8 inches—its capacity is about the same, at 35 liters. Two interior pockets are sealed with zippers, which aren’t ideal in sandy situations, but the bag also has two dividers, one at either end, that can create open pockets.

We’ve been somewhat skeptical about Yeti equipment in the past. Not that the quality is poor or that it fails to live up to the hype, but we’ve always thought there was a premium attached to the name. That said, after years of testing Yeti gear, we can’t deny how long-lasting and tough it almost always is. If you’re hard on your gear, or if you tend toward more-adventurous outings, this may be a bag to consider.

Saltwater Canvas Whale Bag

For wet or dirty items.

If you want a mesh bag for filling with wet or dirty items, the Whale Bag is of much higher quality than cheap imitations. It’s great for traveling with kids, and sand easily falls through the mesh.

While canvas is a better bag material for most beachgoers, a mesh bag is a great option for holding dirty or wet things. We like the Saltwater Canvas Whale Bag because it’s made of porous mesh, not canvas (despite the company’s name). Filthy beach buckets and shovels can’t ruin it, sand shakes out easily and can’t get stuck in crevices, and pool toys such as snorkels and goggles can go in wet and stay there to dry. If the bag gets funky, you can just hose it down.

Measuring 15 by 12.5 by 15 inches, the Whale Bag has nine exterior pockets to hold an assortment of flip-flops, sunglasses, and water bottles—the things that children (and maybe you) tend to scatter around and forget. Note that a small amount of sand can come in through the bottom, which means this bag is not ideal for holding electronics, but should you need to secure a few valuables, it does have one interior zippered pocket plus a small carabiner key ring. It comes in a wide variety of colors, and Saltwater Canvas also sells two smaller sizes: the Dolphin and the Minnow .

Cotopaxi Allpa 60L Gear Hauler Tote

For big families.

If you want a large bag for carrying just about everything to and from the beach, this oversize tote is made from recycled materials by a certified B-corp with a track record for excellent construction.

Sometimes you need a bag large enough to carry the whole family’s stuff within. That’s the Cotopaxi Allpa 60L Gear Hauler Tote . Measuring 14 by 20 by 14 inches and capable of holding 60 liters, it’s just about as large as one person can comfortably handle. The tote has three interior pockets: One is zippered, but the other two are open and made of mesh, which should make it easier to empty out any sand that may creep in.

This bag seems expressly designed for family outings, though Cotopaxi’s marketing depicts people on far-flung adventures carrying it while hopping in and out of boats and the like (probably not advisable with an open-top tote bag, but we digress). The point is, the bag is built well enough for such adventures, even if most people are more likely to use it to gather up beach toys and wet towels.

Cotopaxi, as a registered B-corp, is also transparent about its social and environmental impact and safe labor practices, all things we appreciate. And Cotopaxi backs the Allpa 60L Gear Hauler Tote with its thorough repair, replace, or credit lifetime warranty—though we doubt you’ll need to use it right away, considering how well made the gear usually is.

If the Cotopaxi Allpa 60L Gear Hauler Tote isn’t available: Consider the very similar (in fact, nearly interchangeable) Patagonia Black Hole Gear Tote 61L . Patagonia, like Cotopaxi, is famously transparent about its environmental impact, and it also backs its goods with a lifetime repair-or-replace warranty. For the beach specifically, we preferred the inner mesh organizer pockets within the Allpa tote and the louder, beachier colors that Cotopaxi usually chooses for its gear. But those are mere quibbles, and you’d likely be happy with either choice.

Here’s what we looked for when we decided which bags to test:

• Durable, opaque material: We wanted a tote sturdy enough to survive the trip to the beach (being dragged in and out of a car trunk, being schlepped on a train), as well as hours of exposure to sun and wind and the occasional splash of saltwater. We also wanted a bag that could discreetly shield any valuables from covetous eyes; the exceptions were the mesh bags we decided to test for families who might be hauling wet beach toys, fins, snorkels, and the like.
• Sturdy, sewn-on handles: We didn’t want any risk of the handles giving way under a heavy load. We also wanted handles long enough for us to sling the tote over a shoulder.
• Reinforced, rigid bottom: A bag should be able to stand on its own so that sand doesn’t creep in, which typically happens if the bag is lying on its side. A lot of the nylon and polyester options we considered didn’t have a rigid enough bottom.
• Capacity of 35 liters: We calculated that a tote of that size would be large enough to hold towels, water bottles, and snacks for two people.
• Nylon stitching: Cotton thread will rot.
• Colorfast dyes: The tote bag will inevitably get wet, and we wouldn’t want to worry about it staining the towel it’s sitting on—or our car’s upholstery.
• Few or no zippers: In our experience, sand and saltwater have played havoc with zippers. We avoided bags that had a top zipper closure.

Our testing plan involved packing each tote with all our beach stuff and taking it to the beach. We assessed how easy each bag was to carry across the sand and how steadily it stood upright when we put it down. We also got the bags a little wet to see whether they would dry out in a reasonable amount of time—and to confirm that their dyes wouldn’t run.

Lands’ End Natural 5 Pocket Open Top Canvas Tote Bag : Compared with our top pick from L.L.Bean, this bag is made of similarly sturdy materials and is just as nicely constructed, but we passed on it because its four interior pockets, while convenient for day-to-day organization, are likely to trap sand at the beach. Also, its handles extend only partway down to the reinforced bottom, whereas the L.L.Bean tote’s handles go all the way around.

Other canvas bags : Knockoffs of our picks proliferate on Amazon. If you were to compare any of them with the real L.L.Bean Boat and Tote, it would be no contest. The quality suffers in all the places you might expect: The fabric is cheap, and little attention has been given to the design of the handles. (The bag we initially tested is no longer to be found on Amazon, but the poor-quality dupes continue.)

Getagadget Huge See-Thru Mesh Beach Tote Bag : At a mere 4 inches wide, the bottom of this mesh bag is so narrow that it has no hope of remaining upright on its own, so you risk spilling your food and clean clothes into the sand.

This article was edited by Christine Ryan.

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

The Best Duffle Bags

After lugging 34 duffles through airports, to beaches, and on weekend trips, we chose six bags that’ll carry what you need carried in a range of scenarios.

5 Cheap(ish) Things to Bring to the Beach

Here are the best inexpensive items to add to your beach bag.

12 Surprising Ways to Use One of Our Favorite Reusable Produce Bags

We recommend the Junes Carry-All sacks in our guide to reusable produce bags—but these mesh bags are impressively versatile.

When a Simple Tote Bag Becomes a Lasting Heirloom

A rumination on love, loss, and the things we gift and leave each other.

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• Accessories

The 15 Best Beach Bags of 2024

They’re as chic as they are practical.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

What to Keep in Mind

Your questions, answered, why shop with us.

InStyle / Alli Waataja

A trip to the beach doesn’t involve a lot of clothing—so the sartorial emphasis is automatically placed on the preeminent accessory: the beach bag. A beach bag is an essential, chic accessory, and the ideal candidate is roomy, stylish, functional, and not too precious—it must withstand sand, salty water, and beaming sun.

We consulted with celebrity and editorial stylists Tracy Shapoff , Aisya Washington , and Saks Fifth Avenue buyer Gabriella Giammalva about what to look for in a beach bag and how to style them for and beyond the shores. From black mesh totes to caramel-toned, handwoven straw carryalls to ultrasimple, perfected French linen shoppers, these are the best beach bags of the season.

Best Overall

Jenni kayne woven raffia tote.

Why We Love It: The beauty of this best-selling raffia tote lies in its simplicity. We love the elongated form, looped handles, and relaxed structure. It’s sturdy, spacious, packable, and polished enough to carry through the evening. It’s available in a light, natural tone, and a sleek black—and we love both.

Who It's For: Everyone and anyone—especially those looking for a classic that they can use year after year, and those who’d love to use their designated beach bag for farmers market trips and more. It’s ideal for people who value design notes more than practical factors such as insulation and durability, as raffia is a more delicate material.

Material: Raffia | Dimensions: Not listed

Best Affordable

Banana republic paper straw shopper tote.

Why We Love It: There are countless affordable beach bags on the market, but few are as striking as this straw shopper. Shapoff notes that one needn’t spend a lot of money to secure a great beach bag, and this serves as evidence—it would make our edit even if it were set at a higher price point. Available in a honey-toned, natural straw and in olive, it’d also be a great summertime work bag.

Who It's For: Void of bright colors or splashy details, this is for those who want a sophisticated, simple tote. It’s also an ideal vacation bag because you carry it on the airplane, sightseeing, to the beach and pool, and out.

Material: Paper, cotton, rayon; polyester lining; synthetic leather trim | Dimensions: 19 (W) x 15.5 (H) x 5.35 (D) inches

Best Splurge

Bottega veneta large arco basket tote.

Why We Love It: This vintage-inspired classic basket is elevated by the crescented leather handles, flat leather bottom, immense stature, and tight weaving. It’s exceptionally roomy and unlined, so it’ll work for the beach, day-to-day life, and weekend trips.

Who It's For: Those who, like me, are willing to forsake a bit of functionality for design. Because this bag is composed of braided natural strands of raffia, it shouldn’t get wet or be exposed to too much direct sunlight. When a bag is this beautiful, it’s worth making such sacrifices.

Material: Raffia, cotton, leather | Dimensions: 23.2 (W) x 14.8 (H) x 13 (D) inches

Best Canvas

L.l. bean boat and tote.

Why We Love It: In the world of tote bags , The American-made L.L.Bean Boat and Tote will forever have my heart. It’s as classic as it gets, durable, never feels stale, is available in twelve colors, and can be embroidered with your initials, name, or favorite words. As with many of the best things in life, it looks even better and cooler as it ages and lives. It’s also, notably, less than $40.

Who It's For: Everyone. The Boat and Tote is a no-brainer for those who want a multifunctional, durable, easy-to-care-for, clean-cut, archetypal bag.

Material: Cotton canvas | Dimensions : 17 (W) x 15 (H) x 7.5 (D) inches

Best Packable

Vitamin a allegra natural net bag.

Why We Love It: Netting is quintessentially nautical, summery, and beachy-friendly. This tote is all about negative space: it’s loosely knit, ventilating, and airy, so it’s perfect for carrying swimsuits and towels. It’s oversized and spacious but can be rolled or folded down to nearly nothing, making it extremely travel-friendly.

Who It's For : People who gravitate towards natural, neutral materials and colors, and anyone who lives out of a suitcase: this bag takes up very little cargo space and a pliable netted bag can also be used as an organizational vessel in your suitcase.

Material : Straw | Dimensions : 18.5 (W) x 10.5 (H) x 6.5 (D) inches

Massimo Dutti Raffia Shopper Bag with Leather Handles

Why We Love It: With braided, deep brown handles and a geometric cut, this bag fuses the breeziness of straw bags with the sophistication of a structural tote. It’s roomy and functional, and chic enough to wear with a linen dress and sandals when not at the beach.

Who It's For: Straw bags are universally beloved, and this particular tote is a great option for those who carry a lot with them—it’s oversized, so it’ll hold more than just the necessities. Because of the semi-delicate nature of straw, the bag shouldn’t get wet or be exposed to too much direct sunlight—so this is better suited to those who, like me, prefer to stay dry and in the shade while at the beach .

Material: Raffia, leather | Dimensions: 55 (W) x 35 (H) x 16 (D) centimeters

Best Zippered

By far club tote bag.

Why We Love It: A Y2K-inspired translucent bag is equal parts daring and playful. Available in crystal clear with white piping and a watermelon-esque pairing of pink and lime green, it’s attention-demanding despite being partially “invisible”. It has a full-length zipper and several zippered compartments for organization and storage.

Who It's For: Anyone who, crucially, isn’t shy, carries their kids’ belongings, or wants something durable and easy to care for. This is also a great tote to take to concerts and other security-saturated events where translucent bags are required.

Material: Polyurethane | Dimensions: 29.5 (W) x 33.5 (H) x 20.5 (D) centimeters

Best Insulated

Business & pleasure co. cooler tote bag.

Why We Love It: It needn’t be said that glowingly fresh strawberries, glass bottles of crisp sparkling water, and your favorite snacks will make any beach day much more delicious. Being bestowed with the task of carrying the cooler is less than ideal—they’re awkward, bulky, and typically unattractive. This simple tote is a cool solution: it looks like a classic canvas beach tote, and it just so happens to be insulated and waterproof.

Who It's For: Anyone who will be at the beach for a stretch of time, parents, and refreshment fanatics. Washington says, “I always look for multicompartment beach bags that are either waterproof if your main goal is to swim, or insulated if you want to include a picnic at the beach.” The Cooler Tote checks both boxes.

Material : Cotton, polyester, waterproof vinyl, leather | Dimensions : 20 (W) x 8 (H) x 16 (D) inches

Best Shoulder

Cos oversized sling bag.

Why We Love It : This sling is roomy, functional, and comfortable on the shoulder. Composed of raffia, it’s beach-appropriate and summery, but it’s also sleek enough to use as a day-to-day bag when you literally have a lot on your hands. The subtle silver hardware is a nice touch, and you can throw your keys and wallet in the hidden zippered pouch.

Who It's For: The shorter list is who this bag isn’t perfect for, but it’s especially great for those who love to take long beach walks—your hands will be free and you don’t need to worry about leaving your bag unattended as you go.

Material: Paper; cotton lining; leather trim | Dimensions : 25 (W) x 77 (H) x 14 (D) centimeters

Best Day-to-Night

Dragon diffusion triple jump small dark brown.

Why We Love It: One of the best things about vacation—and summer in general—is the collective sense of ease that permeates getting dressed. It’s acceptable to go from the beach to dinner and out in a breezy dress, leather sandals , and a woven bag. This glossy, unlined bag is structural and sophisticated, so you won’t feel as though you’re carrying a beach tote. Each is made by hand, so no two are alike.

Who It's For: If you value multifunctionality more than storage capacity, this is the bag for you. It’s smaller than our other picks, but what it lacks in volume it more than makes up for in looks. The leather will patina over time and shouldn’t get wet frequently, so this isn't ideal for those who like to throw their wet suit directly into their bag.

Material: Leather | Dimensions: 11.8 (W) x 8.7 (D) inches; 5.3-inch handle drop

Best Netted

Vanessa bruno fishnet bag.

Why We Love It: This organic cotton fishnet sack is evocative of a seashell or flower petal. The white-to-grapefruit pink ombre is pretty and fresh, and the fishnet weave, detailed with subtle sequin trimming, is refreshing.

Who It's For: Those who don’t want to be too careful or precious with their bag—it’s durable, can be thrown into the washing machine, and can carry a good amount. It’s lined with cotton so it’s not as well-ventilated as other fishnet bags, but you also don’t need to worry about anything falling through the holes.

Material: Cotton | Dimensions: 11 (W) x 18 (H) x 4 (D) centimeters

3.1 Phillip Lim Mesh Market Tote

Why We Love It: This tote is cool, barely there, and straightforward, without being boring. It’s available in slick black, lemon yellow, and bubblegum pink and has an attached pochette that will keep your phone, wallet, and keys protected from sand and water.

Who It's For : Anyone seeking a practical and minimalist tote. Mesh is breathable, strong, washable, and not finicky. It’s a ventilating material, so it’s optimal for holding wet towels and suits, but it’s only for those who don’t mind their belongings being visible.

Material: Cotton | Dimensions: 18.5 (W) x 21 (H) x 9 (D) inches

Best Crochet

Loeffler randall orion crochet raffia tote.

Why We Love It: Knit with stripes of sky blue and milky white, this crocheted tote is playful and bright but not goofy or over the top. Post beach, it’ll pair well with a sundress: Shapoff and Washington agree that a crocheted bag is ideal for carrying from the beach into the evening.

Who It's For: Color and print fanatics. The tote is bright and colorful but can still pair well with any swimsuit and beach cover-up .

Best Towel 2-in-1

Sunnylife twin beach towel 2-in-1 tote bag.

Why We Love It: It’s a cute way to make a trip to the beach feel even more effortless. This roomy, olive and ivory-striped tote folds out into a towel that’s plush and comfortable to lie on and carry, because even the handles are made of soft terry cloth.

Who It's For: Anyone who’s low maintenance, perpetually forgets their beach towel, and/or wants to carry as little as possible. This bag is all about ease. It’s best for people who bring minimal belongings to the beach, as you’ll need to take everything out to use the towel.

Material: Cotton | Dimensions : 64.5” (W) x 35.5 (H) inches; x 11.75-inch handle drop

Best Embellished

Btb los angeles nia pearly crystal straw tote bag.

Why We Love It: The glitzy gemstones and pearly orbs will capture the sun and reflect light. It’s sparkly and decked out, while still being neutral and relatively subdued.

Who It's For: Anyone who doesn’t believe in dressing down. It’s also a perfect bag to carry to pool parties, beachside soirees, and holiday weekends.

Material: Straw, faux leather, rhinestones, faux pearls | Dimensions: 17 (W) x 14 (H) x 7 (D) inches

• Size: There are two trains of thought in packing for vacations and for the beach. Some find bringing as little as possible to be freeing and relaxing, while others need the whole lot with them to feel calm. If you’re in the first camp, look for a smaller bag that’ll hold nothing but the essentials—it is technically possible to go to the beach with a very small, netted market bag or handbag, after all. If you’re in the second camp, the sky’s the limit—and a giant bag is no less chic. A bag that doesn’t have a closure will allow you to carry even more.
• Material: Do a brief survey of your needs, and make a selection according to the level of functionality that you require. What are you carrying, how close to the water are you getting, do you need insulation, will you be placing your wet swimsuit directly into the bag? Materials including cotton and canvas are durable and easy to care for, insulated bags tend to be synthetic, straw looks chic but shouldn’t get wet, netting is a ventilation and suit-drying cheat code, and so forth.
• Insulation: Look for a high-quality, nontoxic, and waterproof combination of an insulating material such as PEVA, foam, or aluminum, and a nylon or polyester shell. An insulated bag should be easy to clean and care for, durable, and roomy so that you can carry bottles, snacks, sun hats as well as your other essentials. Ice packs tend to have staying power and if you’re using fresh ice, note that more ice will lead to a longer chill. If an insulated beach bag isn’t for you, go with a mini cooler instead.

What makes a beach bag suitable for evening?

It’s all about the material. Washington says, “Woven paper, straw, and crochet are great day-to-night beach bag materials.” Shapoff agrees: “I love to carry a crochet, raffia, or straw bag to dinner while on vacation and during the summer.” As for what to wear them with, Shapoff notes that “Neutrals are always easiest to match with your outfit, but a pop of color can also be fun—especially in warm weather. I’d suggest a crop top, long skirt , and beach bag for a breezy night out look. Wearing a flowy sundress with your beach bag is an easy and pretty look for evening.” Washington says, “For post-beach outfits, I love a cute maxi or mididress, dressy shorts, a romper, or a two-piece set, worn with sandals or heels. Each of these pairs well with, and can elevate a beach bag.” When in doubt, go with a basket bag: it’s a summertime staple that translates well to situations beyond the shores.

Which beach bag styles work as year-round totes?

Shapoff says, “A great way to use a beach bag year-round is to consider the fabric and color choice. Black raffia or canvas is a great option for a more versatile bag that’ll work from winter to summer. Avoid beachy embroidery on the bag, as that will hinder the versatility. Canvas bags or coated canvas will make for a great work or travel bag year-round.” Washington agrees, noting that “Canvas, crochet, and woven fabrics are ideal for a seasonless, versatile bag. Look for a neutral color like black or brown—these work anywhere, at any time.”

What are the most important qualities to look for in a beach bag?

Giammalva says, “After making many purchases in the beach bag category as a buyer for Saks, I can promise you that practicality is undoubtedly the most important characteristic for this quintessential summer accessory.” Still, she adds, the versatility of the color is also essential. “Neutrals and shades of green will work with any outfit.”

Shapoff advises that you pay attention to the size of the bag, and make sure that the straps are long enough to be comfortable on your shoulder. Additionally, be sure the bag is either waterproof, easy to clean, or won’t get dirty easily, and that it’s packable. “Sand and sunscreen can easily scuff and affect your bag so you want to make sure it won’t be ruined by these factors,” she says. “And you’ll most likely find yourself frequently reaching for a bag that can easily be folded down without harming or squashing the material.”

Alexandra Malmed is a contributing writer with more than 12 years of fashion writing experience for publications including Vogue , Man Repeller, Byrdie, and Coveteur. For this article, she consulted with the below experts.

• Gabriella Giammalva is a designer handbag and shoe buyer for Saks Fifth Avenue.
• Tracy Shapoff is a celebrity stylist who has worked with clients including Elizabeth Banks, Keleigh Teller, and Constance Wu.
• Aisya Washington is a stylist who has worked with clients, publications, and companies including Apple, Google, Harper’s Bazaar , and The Wall Street Journal .

Related Articles

• Best overall
• Best budget
• Best cooler
• Best waterproof
• Best for travel
• Best for families
• Best canvas
• Most stylish
• Best zippered
• Best backpack

The 12 best beach bags, from on-trend raffia totes to fully-insulated coolers

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Perhaps you're a beach minimalist and only pack the basics, like a good book and a towel. Or you're on the other side of the spectrum and need space for a family's worth of sand toys. Either way, a solid beach bag will make it easier to carry everything you'll need to get the most of your day at the shore. There are plenty of affordable, cute options on the market — even ones that will keep your drinks cool all day. 

Our top pick overall for the best beach bag is the classic L.L. Bean Boat and Tote , a durable canvas bag with lots of space and the ability to withstand up to 500 pounds of weight. For a refrigerated tote, the Hydro Flask Insulated Tote makes for a water-resistant, collapsible alternative to a bulky cooler.

See our guides to the best tote bags and the best work bags if you're looking to carry anything other than towels and sunscreen. 

Best overall: L.L. Bean Boat and Tote, Open-Top

L.L. Bean's Boat and Tote is our canvas pick for the best tote bag and an evergreen favorite of beachgoers everywhere. The heavyweight canvas is durable enough to hold just about anything you'd  need for a beach day and withstand the inevitable elements. When we say durable we mean it– this bag has been tested to carry up to 500 pounds. 

The bag comes in sizes ranging from small to extra large (with the option to choose from regular or long handles) and a variety of colors to contrast the natural canvas. You can choose from an open- or zip-top . Plus, to make this tote a little more unique, add a little bit of personalization with a monogram. Go classic with your initials or add a fun phrase à la the ironic boat and tote trend. 

Best budget: Standard Baggu

Baggu's reusable shopping bag may not seem like an intuitive pick for a beach bag, but give it a shot and we think you'll change your mind. The bag is made of recycled ripstop nylon or polyester depending on the exact model, which both hold up well to sand and water. It can hold up to 50 pounds worth of stuff, and when it's off-duty the bag can be folded up to fit in your pocket. What really stands out about the Standard Baggu is all of the fun colors and patterns to choose from. 

When you're not heading to the beach, you can use this bag for groceries, a park picnic, or a day trip; it's so versatile, the opportunities for use are quite endless. At $14 each, the price can't be beat.

Best straw: Hat Attack The Original Straw Traveler Bag

Have you ever tried to fly with a big, straw beach hat in tow? It's not great. Beach hats don't fit into most carry-ons easily and when they do, you risk ruining the hat's structure. That's why Hat Attack's beach bags are such a smart find. Their Original Straw Traveler Bag is made with 100% raffia straw and 100% cotton lining. It has a magnetic, snap closure so it's not a complete open top. But, our favorite part of this straw beach bag is the built in spot on the outside of the bag to hold your sunhat. When you're traveling, you can use it as your carry-on. When you get to the beach, it's ready to be a beach bag again. And, it's a really cute beach bag at that.

Best mesh: A HOXIS Mesh Beach Tote Womens Shoulder Handbag

A mesh tote bag is ideal for the beach. All of the holes help air flow easily, so you can throw your wet bathing suit inside without worrying about it getting a mildew smell. Mesh makes it easy to shake sand out of the bag too.   

This one is breathable and quick-drying thanks to the nylon and polyester construction. It's quite roomy, lightweight, and flexible, giving you more than enough space for your beach day essentials and then some. It has an open top which lends itself to the slouchy, laidback feel. We love the variety of fun colorways and the affordable pricetag.

Best cooler: Hydro Flask 20 L Tote Bag

Cold drinks and beach days are meant to be together. But the sun can make that ice-cold beer go lukewarm fast. That's why an insulated tote is a must if you're bringing snacks and beverages to the beach. 

This Hydro Flask bag looks just like a regular tote, but open it up and you'll find a fully-lined, insulated interior. The outside fabric is coated so its waterproof and super easy to clean. The top zips up, which water-resistant zippers might we add, to keep sand and splashes away from your eats and drinks. It's collapsible, making storage and travel a breeze. With a 20L capacity, this tote can carry food for your whole group. 

Best waterproof: YETI Camino 35 Carryall Tote Bag

Yeti is know for its durable products built for the outdoors, so it's no wonder this tote bag is our waterproof pick for the best beach bag. It's tested to hold up to 1,500 pounds of static weight and while the brand doesn't recommend you tote 1,500 pounds of static weight to the beach, this stat is proof that this bag can do some heavy hauling. The welded construction makes it virtually impossible for water to seep through the bag's bottom and sides, making this a great choice for boat days. The top of the bag is open for easy access to your belongings, so water can get in there, but there are zippered pockets inside to ensure you can keep your valuables dry. 

The bag comes in three sizes: 20L, 35L, and 50L. It comes in two neutral core colors, as well as some fun limited-edition options like High Desert Clay and Nordic Purple. To make it your own, Yeti has the option to add some accessories including patches and bottle openers. While pricey, this tote is durable enough to last you years.

Best for travel: Dagne Dover Landon Neoprene Carryall Bag

A duffel that doubles as a beach bag is perfect for tropical getaways. Dagne Dover has updated one of their bestsellers with some vibrant new colorways for the season, though you're sure to get use out of the Landon throughout the year. It has a spacious main compartment, four extra pockets (two on the inside, two on the outside), and a zippered laptop sleeve to hold your book or tablet. It also includes an Air Mesh pouch where you can store a wet swimsuit, as well as a shoe bag. Take it with you as a carry-on bag by sliding its side sleeve over your luggage handle, then re-pack it for the beach once you're officially in vacay mode. The Landon comes in five sizes, so you can choose yours according to the length of your stay.

Best for families: GOTDYA Extra Large Beach Bag

Getting the whole family to the beach is no easy feat, but a really spacious, durable, well-organized beach bag can make that process a little easier. That's why this extra-large beach bag from Gotdya is our pick for the best beach bag for families. It's designed with family in mind, laden with an internal zippered pocket to keep valuables safe and dry as well as four external pockets to keep things like sunscreen, beach toys, and flip flops at arm's reach.

This bag is durable, constructed with a breathable blend of polyester and mesh which makes for easy drying. It's machine-washable to boot, so you don't have to be precious when you tote this one around.

Best canvas: Lands' End 5 Pocket Canvas Tote Bag

Since the L.L. Bean Boat and Tote made the top of our list as the best beach bag overall, we felt that the Lands' End iteration deserved a shoutout too. With a durable canvas construction, the Lands' End 5 Pocket Canvas Tote is very similar to the L.L. Bean Boat and Tote. You can even customize this one's handle length and closure type. 

Unlike the Boat and Tote, the Lands' End Canvas Tote has an embroidery option where (in addition to adding a monogram) you can add a symbol or design right onto the bag. This bag also has an exterior pocket, four interior pockets, and an added keyring. The two brands also stock different colors, so if you're looking for a great canvas bag and one brand doesn't have your preferred color, check the other. 

Most stylish: Clare V. Sandy

Style is subjective, so what we consider a cute beach tote might not necessarily float your boat. However, the Sandy tote from Clare V. comes in seven colorways, so there's bound to be one that compliments your beach outfit. For fans of all things mesh , its pattern is both trendy and utilitarian. Its an unlined woven bag, so despite being named "Sandy," it won't ever fill with sand. With enough space to pack for a personal beach day and its Nappa leather handles, you may very well use it as an oversized shoulder bag all summer long.

Best zippered: Everlane The Organic Canvas Weekender

This versatile canvas bag from Everlane is designed to be a weekender, so it can fit more than enough for a day at the beach. It's durable, structured, and made from 100% cotton canvas. The interior is spacious and open, with a metal zipper at the top to keep things secure. A small internal pocket ensures your essentials are protected and organized. The bag comes in four everyday color options: Black, Natural, Cappucino, and Black/Bone Stripes. The best part? It's machine-washable so you don't have to worry about it getting splashed or sandy. When you're not at the beach, you can use this for work or weekend trips. 

Best backpack: Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack

Carrying a backpack to the beach is often easier on your shoulders and back than a tote, and being completely hands-free is an added bonus. If you don't want to choose, this Patagonia pack can be both. Thanks to 100% recycled ripstop nylon, the bag is strong, durable, and very lightweight. It's small enough to be stuffed into its own pocket, but when you fill it have no fear– it can fit 27L worth of stuff. 

With thoughtful touches like water bottle pockets on the sides, a key keeper hidden in an internal zip pocket, and a mesh harness to help distribute the weight, this bag is well-suited for active beach days and the bikes, hikes, and walks that may follow.

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

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The 9 Best Beach Bags for Travelers

Looking for the perfect beach bag these haulers are all a shore thing, according to travel experts..

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Sea Bags has repurposed roughly 1.5 million pounds of sailcloth into bags, duffels, and more.

Courtesy of Sea Bags

Beach towels and beach read? Check. Plenty of ice-cold bevvies? Yep. An array of SPF options (plus UPF-50 long-sleeve tees, just in case)? Oh yeah. There’s just one thing missing: The best bag, tote, or pack to haul all of these essentials (and plenty of “just-becauses,” too) from Point A to Point Beach.

In many ways, your stuff-hauler is the unspoken hero of any day in the sand. “Beach bags are essential to a day at the beach because they provide a way to transport, protect, and organize all of your necessary beach gear,” says Kristin Billings , a travel advisor specializing in beach vacations and Disney destinations. “A great bag can make your day easier and more organized, so you can have more fun at the shore.”

So no matter what you put in the bag (and we have lots of helpful suggestions ) and regardless of where you’re going ( Snorkeling off Catalina Island , perhaps? Or sun-worshipping on Maui’s Kāʻanapali Beach ?), make sure you have the right vessel.

Considerations for choosing your perfect beach bag

Of course, the ideal beach bag for parents juggling plastic sand toys and eight hours’ worth of juice boxes is going to be far different than the best tote for a resort traveler who’s only hauling a snazzy pair of sunglasses and a good magazine (after all, the swim-up bar is just a sand mound-away).

Keep these tips in mind as you begin your personal search for “the one”:

• Size matters. When in doubt, go bigger, says Abbey Hester, who co-founded beach-side event company, The VB Picnic Co. , with her twin sister Hayley. “It stinks to invest in a bag,” she adds, “and then go to actually pack it the day-of and realize you can’t fit all of your beach goods.”
• Organization prevents frustration. Whether you choose a larger bag with built-in pockets or use smaller receptacles to keep valuables separate from snacks, you’ll save a lot of hassle and avoid arguments (“I told you to put the keys somewhere safe!”) by staying organized.
• Durability is key. Don’t be the person who yard-sales halfway between the car and their spot in the sand. Or the one who turns buying a new beach bag into an annual Memorial Day tradition. Look for options ready to withstand the sun, saltwater, and sand—even if it means spending a little more money upfront.
• Consider the bag’s cleaning potential. Machine-washable? Ready to be hosed off? Mesh or straw to let sand slide through? Pick a bag you can clean to your own immaculate (or good-enough) standards.
• Match aesthetics to your personality and situation. The Hester sisters prefer neutral-colored bags because they accent the taupes and earth tones of a beach setting. Laura McGee, owner of Fort Myers-based boutique Ives Curated Gifts , on the other hand, looks for “bright and sunny” shades. Beyond color, Billings recommends considering the occasion. “Do you just need something for super casual, family days at a beach?” she asks. “Or are you looking for an accessory to compliment your resort wear?”

Ready to find your perfect beach bag? Here are our top nine picks.

The massive Allpa 60L Gear Hauler Tote - Del Día by Cotopaxi is sustainably made and will brighten any beach day.

Courtesy of Cotopaxi

Allpa 60L Gear Hauler Tote - Del Día by Cotopaxi

Best overall beach bag.

• Buy now : $90, cotopaxi.com
• Pros: Space for everything (and a small kitchen sink), heavy-duty durability, made with repurposed materials, easy to spot even on a busy beach
• Cons: None really, though you might get tired of fielding compliments

Our travel experts agree that when it comes to beach bags, bigger is better. “It needs to be oversized, so you never have to leave the beach once you get there,” says Hayley Hester. “You need to be able to fit your entire life inside of it.”

At 60 liters (in other words, big enough for a toddler to curl up inside its semi-structured walls), Cotopaxi’s Allpa Gear Hauler definitely fits the “go big or go home” bill. But that’s not all this mega beach bag has going for it.

With longer tote handles, shorter side-grip handles, and snatch handles on the sides, users can carry this hauler in a multitude of ways. A ballistic nylon (Read: uber durable), water-resistant exterior laughs in the face of errant splashes, while a bevy of pockets (one on the outside, five on the inside, including the central compartment) keep you organized. Need to batten down the hatches for an especially long cross-beach trek? No problem, thanks to the two top compression straps.

And then there are the colors. We’ve sung the praises of Cotopaxi’s Del Día initiative before—repurposed fabrics mean one-of-a-kind products sewn in fair labor-certified factories—but when it comes to simplifying the process of distinguishing your beach site from all the rest, a king-sized, rainbow-hued beach bag is certainly an asset. On top of all that, the brand backs its products with a lifetime warranty and donates one percent of its revenue (through the Cotopaxi Foundation ) to nonprofit partners helping to fight extreme poverty.

Camp Tough Tote Bag by Mountain Hardwear comes in Hunter Green, seen here, and a beige dubbed “Scout”.

Courtesy of Mountain Hardwear

Camp Tough Tote Bag by Mountain Hardwear

Best beach bag for organization.

• Buy now: $75, mountainhardwear.com ; backcountry.com
• Pros: Lots of pockets, made using recycled materials, comes in neutral tones
• Cons: Exterior pockets mean what you packed is on display

If Marie Kondo ponied up for her perfect beach bag, we’re confident Mountain Hardwear’s Camp Tough Tote Bag would be her pick. Featuring six pockets that circumnavigate a central abyss, this tote bag’s organization-forward design ensures beach days remain care-free rather than stress-full. “You have to have multiple compartments so you can stay somewhat organized within the bag,” Hayley Hester says. Otherwise, your belongings get “all jumbled up on top of each other and become a huge mess. You want to know where to go for all of your items.”

Available in two neutral color ways (Hunter Green and a beige dubbed “Scout”), the Camp Tough Tote is constructed with 1,200-denier, abrasion-resistant, fully recycled polyester by a brand committed to making the world a better place through non-profit partnerships (including its most recent venture with Leave No Trace ) and sustainable practices.

Use the Black Hole MLC Cube by Patagonia to keep wet swimsuits separate from the rest of your beach gear at the end of the day.

Courtesy of Patagonia

Black Hole MLC Cube by Patagonia

Best beach bag organizer.

• Buy now: $65, patagonia.com ; backcountry.com
• Pros: Made from recycled materials by a certified B Corporation, water-resistant, versatile
• Cons: Expensive (for a packing cube)

If your bag doesn’t come with pockets—or perhaps it does but you want even more—it’s worth investing in a smaller container, McGee advises. “Maybe one pouch is for all your wet stuff like the suits at the end of the day; a second pouch is for headsets, phone, and SPF lip gloss; and then another pouch could be for snacks,” she says. “It just makes your day easy if you have separate bags for each.”

Billings agrees, noting, “I really like a smaller interior bag that can hold your keys and sunscreen and smaller items–maybe a little waterproof bag with a zipper.”

Certainly, a gallon food storage bag—or heck, a plastic film grocery sack—could serve this purpose in a pinch; however, while the price is right for those options, their durability likely won’t cut muster, and as single-use items, they’re not sustainable choices.

Instead, check out the options from Patagonia, a certified B Corporation and founding member of 1% for the Planet that distributes all funds not reinvested in the business to initiatives that help fight the climate crisis. All of its Black Hole packing cubes are made from burly, weather-resistant, fully recycled fabric that’s Fair Trade-certified sewn. We’re partial to the new-this-spring MLC (that stands for Maximum Legal Carry-on) because of its two-part design: a compressible, roll-top upper compartment and separate, zippered base. The Goldilocks-approved size is just right no matter how you use it: big enough as a stand-alone beach bag or small enough to toss into the gullet of a larger tote. Consider yourself a minimalist? The 3-liter Black Hole Cube will hold your wallet, keys, and phone (but not much else).

The Sandy Tote by Clare V. comes in natural cotton rope (seen here), as well as black, green, and yellow.

Courtesy of Clare V.

Sandy Tote by Clare V.

Best stylish beach bag.

• Buy now: $145, clarev.com
• Pros: Double-take-worthy style, sand easily filters out
• Cons: Sand easily gets in

“My top recommendation for a beach bag is to choose something that allows the sand to filter through, so it doesn’t collect at the bottom of the bag,” Billings says. “That might be a straw bag or a mesh bag that can fit a good amount of stuff.”

If you share Billings’ aversion to taking the beach back home—and most of us do—then the Sandy Tote from female-founded fashion brand Clare V. may well be your holey grail. Designed specifically for days lounging along the coast, the Sandy’s loose weave construction effortlessly filters out stray sand particles with just a few easy shakes. We also love how the braided, cotton rope construction provides a stylish twist on the typical tote silhouette.

Measuring 16 inches wide and 12 inches high, this chic sack can easily hold your book, sunglasses, and even a towel, but you might want a bigger option if you’re stocking up for an all-day beach outing. You’ll also want to store items that shouldn’t get wet or sandy in a separate, smaller bag.

Sea Bags’ 96-ounce Beverage Bucket has a half-dozen interior pockets for drinks. Just fill with ice and go.

Beverage Bucket by Sea Bags

Best beach bag to carry a six-pack.

• Buy now: $75, seabags.com
• Pros: Made from repurposed sailcloth, handmade, more than 20 designs to choose from
• Cons: Single-purpose design

Trips to the beach often yield lasting memories: A question popped at sunset that left only one knee sandy; your child’s first splash in the ocean; a wish-you-could-forget-it sunburn. In a way, your beach bag facilitates this memory-making process. Invest in one from Sea Bags, and your handmade tote will bring along a deck log’s-worth of history all its own.

Each of the brand’s products is made from sailcloth that formerly propelled a vessel along the waterfront of Portland, Maine. Most of these sails end up in a landfill when they get too tattered and worn to fulfill their purpose; Sea Bags ensures that at least some get a second life. To date, the woman-founded business has repurposed roughly 1.5 million pounds of sailcloth into duffels, diaper bags, and a variety of home decor items and accessories.

Candice Thiele, the top salesperson at Ives Curated Gifts in Fort Myers, Florida, says she loves how products from Sea Bags are both durable and easy to clean. Plus, “they’re vintage,” she says. “They’ve been places.”

Sea Bags’ 96-ounce Beverage Bucket features a half-dozen interior pockets perfectly sized to hold your six-pack of choice. (Just remember: Most beaches don’t allow glass bottles.) Then simply fill up the central pocket with ice, use the trendy hemp rope handles to carry your thirst-quenchers to the beach site, and enjoy. A grommet on the bag’s bottom lets the ice-turned-water drain out. Spill a little soda on the bag? No worries. The Beverage Bucket is machine-washable.

The Virginia Beach Tote by North End Bag Company is made in a beach town, but would look good on the streets of New York, too.

Courtesy of North End Bag Company

The Virginia Beach Tote by North End Bag Company

Best multipurpose beach bag.

• Buy now: $185, northendbagcompany.com
• Pros: Versatile, timeless styling, hand-made, water-resistant
• Cons: Expensive

Plan on flying to your beach destination? Billings advises looking for a versatile beach bag that can serve double-duty as both a seaside companion and trusty carry-on. Lovingly hand-crafted in a shop just four blocks from the Virginia Beach oceanfront, North End Bag Company’s signature Virginia Beach Tote is one great option. It pairs a handsome, water-resistant, waxed canvas exterior with leather straps to create an aesthetic that’s rugged enough for everyday use but refined and ready for first class. The sleek slip pockets ringing the exterior could house flip flops or plane snacks, while inside, additional compartments offer storage for goggles or electronics.

The Hester sisters are huge fans of this tote in particular—and not just because it shares a name with their favorite beach destination. “They’re handmade bags, so obviously they’re going to be a little pricier, but they last years,” Abbey Hester says. “You’ll be able to use it summer after summer.”

Made with recycled, water-resistant nylon, Away’s Packable Backpack folds down into an included pouch when not in use.

Courtesy of Away

The Packable Backpack by Away

Best compressible beach bag.

• Buy now: $75, awaytravel.com
• Pros: Hands-free carry option, lightweight, compressible
• Cons: Material wrinkles easily

At first glance, Away’s Packable Backpack looks like any other lightweight backpack—albeit one made entirely of recycled, water-resistant nylon. Wide, lightly padded shoulder straps ensure even heavy loads carry comfortably, while a top handle provides grab-and-go functionality. Its size and durability impressed one verified buyer who raved, “It’s much larger than expected and was really easy to get in and out of (which was frequently the case handing out sunscreen, phones, and everything else my family needed). Love the color, style, and material. I’ll be buying more for holiday presents.”

But wait—with a crease here and a squish there, voilà! Your hands-free beach bag becomes roughly the size of a tofu block (or for you carnivores, a sizable filet mignon). In true Houdini fashion, the Packable Backpack stuffs into a small zip pouch for easy, out-of-sight transport. It’s also a bag from a brag-worthy brand. A female-founded business, Away is a member of the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association and partners with travel-focused nonprofits like Global Glimpse , as well as Foster Love (formerly Together We Rise), which provides assistance to those in and involved with the foster care community.

Sand slides out easily from the mesh Alder Lake Tote by Kavu.

Courtesy of Kavu

Alder Lake Tote by Kavu

Best mesh beach bag.

• Buy now: $55, kavu.com ; rei.com
• Pros: Sand easily slides out, family-owned and operated business
• Cons : Not made from sustainable materials

It seems only fitting that fun-focused outdoor brand Kavu—whose name draws inspiration from the aviation acronym “clear above, visibility unlimited”—would offer a sun-and-sand-ready stuff-hauler. Enter the all-new Alder Lake Tote. Loaded with storage spots (five pockets outside, plus a hanging zip pocket and another slip pocket inside, not to mention the large, central compartment), this see-through beach bag lets sand organically slide out through its mesh exterior. Plus, if one of the littles drips mint chip on the bag, simply hose it off when you return home.

While Kavu overall has sustainability initiatives in place—the brand works with some bluesign-approved suppliers and sources some earth-friendly fabrics—the Alder Lake Tote specifically doesn’t highlight them other than in its hang tag (made from recycled paper and printed with vegetable dyes) and the biodegradable bag the tote ships in.

The insulated R-Jaunt 20L Cooler by Icemule has room for up to 15 standard, 12-ounce cans (plus ice).

Courtesy of Icemule

R-Jaunt 20L Cooler by Icemule

Best insulated beach bag.

• Buy now: $170, icemulecoolers.com ; rei.com
• Pros: Impressive insulation, hands-free carry option, made of recycled ocean waste
• Cons: Minimal storage compartments

Hot days call for cold beverages. And if there’s nary a tiki hut in sight, then it’s up to you to bring the party—and by party, we mean Icemule’s all-new R-Jaunt 20L, which is made using recycled rPET ocean waste nylon and fully recycled plastic components. Fully waterproof and boasting dual foam and air insulation, this sizable beach bag (it’s available in 15-liter and 9-liter versions too, though they aren’t made from recycled materials) promises more than 24 hours of ice retention.

Inside, you’ll find a single, cavernous hole ready to store up to 15 standard, 12-ounce cans (plus ice), while outside, a single external zip pocket can store credit cards or earbuds away from the wetness. Best of all, the Jaunt’s backpack-style carrying system (complete with padded shoulder straps) means your hands are free to hold your kiddo’s hand or to flag your buddies over to the party site.

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16 best beach bags, totes and backpacks, according to our editors

Some pack light when they head to the beach, while others need a lot more to complete their day in the sun. No matter what type of beach goer you are, you’ll need a functional bag that’ll keep essentials like sunscreen , towels and a portable speaker all in one place. Below, I rounded up highly rated and NBC Select staff-favorite beach bags that range in style, size and price.

SKIP AHEAD Best beach totes | Best crossbody beach bags | Best backpacks for the beach | Why trust NBC Select?

Selected. Our top picks

How I picked the best beach bags

To recommend the best beach bags, I considered the following factors:

• Size : Depending on how long you’re staying and how much you’re bringing, you’ll want to consider the size of your bag and what it’ll actually fit. Some smaller totes, for example, will fit just the bare necessities, while larger, multi-pocket bags let you pack additional items like food, a change of clothes and your cosmetics bag. 
• Material : Since beach bags are likely to get sand and water on them, you might want to look for options designed with a water-resistant material, or one that’s machine-washable or easy to spot clean. If you like to bring food and drinks to the beach, consider purchasing an insulated bag.
• Pockets and other organizational features : Interior and exterior pockets, as well as other organization compartments like dividers, give you a place to put all your items and make finding them easier.
• Cost : More expensive beach bags are an investment you can use year after year, while lower priced options may only be in good shape for one season, depending on how much you use it and how well you take care of it.

select We gave the viral Stanley Cup a try to see if it lives up to the hype.

Best beach bags of 2024.

Below, I rounded up a handful of beach bags to consider. Some options are ones our NBC Select editors use and love. I also rounded up highly rated options from NBC Select reader-favorite brands and major retailers like Amazon and Target .

Best beach totes

L.l. bean boat and tote.

• Comes in multiple sizes
• Spacious; good for daily use
• Can be monogramed
• Does not have pockets

Many NBC Select staffers recommend this L.L. Bean tote for both the beach and daily use, including NBC Select commerce editor Lindsay Schneider . “It’s shockingly spacious and strong,” says Schneider. “I’m always surprised by how much it can hold though there aren’t any pockets, so when I go to the beach I fill all my items with little cosmetics bags to create some organization.”

You can purchase the tote in small, medium, large and extra-large sizes. You can also choose between two strap lengths: regular (5 to 10 inches) and long (14 inches). The bag has a double-layer base and reinforced bottom, which means it can carry heavier items. “I love that the canvas gets softer over time, too,” says Schneider.  You can add a monogram or phrase for an additional fee.

Size : Varies based on size | Material : Canvas | Care : Spot clean

Yeti Camino 20 Carryall

YETI Camino 20 Carryall

• Two interior zippered pockets
• Shoulder straps or handle
• Water-resistant
• Can be too stiff

Yeti is a favorite brand among many NBC Select staffers. This 20-liter tote from the brand, which has a 4.8-star average rating from over 600 reviews on Amazon, has interior dividers (which you can fold away to create one large compartment) and two interior zippered pockets. You can carry it from its shoulder straps or cross bar handles, and the tote can stand up by itself, according to the brand. The tote also has a water-resistant shell to keep moisture out, according to the brand.

Size : 15x7.75x13.25 inches | Material : Yeti’s ThickSkin Shell and an EVA molded bottom | Care : Spot clean

Standard Baggu

Baggu Standard Reusable Bag

• Can hold up to 50 pounds
• Machine-washable
• Comes in three sizes
• Handles can be uncomfortable

“I use the standard Baggu bag to bring snacks, cold drinks, sunscreen and more to the beach,” says Kelsey Fredricks , NBC Select production coordinator. The Standard Baggu can hold up to 50 pounds, allowing you to carry two to three plastic grocery bags worth of items, according to the brand. 

The bag is machine-washable and made out of ripstop nylon, which helps prevent tears while holding heavy items and groceries, according to Baggu. “It’s super durable and I find it easy to clean off any sand or dirt that gets on it,” says NBC Select updates editor Mili Godio . Plus, it folds down into a 5-inch pouch, so it’s easy to travel with and store away, says Godio.

“I also like how many prints it comes in and the brand is always coming out with new ones,” says Fredricks. The Baggu comes in an assortment of regular prints, limited-edition prints and solid colors. You can also purchase this bag in two additional sizes: Baby Baggu and Big Baggu . 

Size : 25.5x15.5x6 inches| Material : Nylon | Care : Machine-washable

State Bags Wellington Cabana Tote

• Detachable zippered pouch
• Easy to clean
• Only comes in one size

“I absolutely love State Bags and this tote is no exception,” says Lauren Swanson, NBC Select editorial director. “The main compartment is very large, but isn’t overbearing. I can usually fit several towels, shoes, books and even a few snacks in it.” State’s tote comes with a detachable zippered pouch to store your phone, sunscreen, wallet and more. Plus, its flexible plastic material makes cleaning easy, says Swanson. “In fact, I once spilled salad dressing in this bag and just threw it in the shower to rinse off,” she says.

Size : 22x16.5x12.2 inches | Material : TPU | Care : Spot clean

Bogg Bag Original Bogg Bag

• Two reusable plastic inserts
• Stands up on its own

Similar to a mesh bag, the Original Bogg Bag, which has a 4.7-star average rating from over 7,900 reviews on Amazon, has small holes that allow sand to escape, according to the brand. The bag stands up on its own and comes with two reusable plastic inserts — you can snap the inserts’ buttons into any free hole on the bag’s interior or exterior, giving you a place to store your phone, sunscreen, goggles and more. You can also purchase the smaller Baby Bogg and Bitty Bogg Bag , plus a variety of clip-in charms to customize your bag to your own personal style.

Size : 19x15x9.5 inches | Material : EVA | Care : Washable

Gray Malin The Copacabana Tote Bag

• Leather drop-strap
• Storage pocket
• Not machine-washable

“My parents bought me and my sister-in-law these beachy tote bags before a family trip to the Bahamas this past Christmas,” says former NBC Select editor Christina Colizza. “The bags have a nice, 10-inch long drop-strap made of real leather that makes them easy and comfortable to carry. Plus, they have a little storage pocket for your wallet and keys, and the canvas exterior and nylon interior make it easy to wipe down, or shake clean of any sand.” The tote bags are available with many of photographer Gray Malin’s images, including of Lake Michigan and umbrellas on a beach.

Size : 19x17x5.25 inches | Material : Canvas exterior, nylon interior | Care : Spot clean

Scout BJ Bag

• Four exterior pockets
• Interior zipper compartment
• Short straps

Designed with four exterior pockets and an interior zipper compartment, Scout’s BJ Bag offers lots of space to organize everything you pack inside. The bag can stand up on its own, has a zipper closure and folds flat when it’s not in use, according to the brand. It’s also highly rated, with a 4.8-star average rating from over 1,400 reviews on Amazon.

Size : 18.5x8.5x14 inches | Material : Water-resistant polypropylene | Care : Machine-washable

Rothy’s The Lightweight Tote

• Made from recycled material

“I normally like mesh bags for the beach, but this Rothy’s bag also fits the bill for me since it’s washable,” says Swanson. “I can throw my towel, book and sunglasses in here easily, and then toss it in the wash at the end of the day. It also makes a great bag for picnics.” The tote has a built-in key leash to keep your keys and other accessories secure, and it comes in 19 colors and three reversible patterns.

Size : 12.8x6.7x13.6 inches | Material : Fabric made from ocean-bound marine plastic | Care : Machine-washable

Calpak Compakt Tote Bag

• Interior zip pocket
• Folds into itself
• Nothing to note at this time

Calpak is an NBC Select Travel Awards winner and one of our favorite travel brands. This tote is water-resistant and made out of ripstop nylon fabric, which means it’s durable and won’t tear, according to the brand. It has an interior zip pocket for smaller items like your keys and wallet. When you’re done using it, you can fold it into itself and seal it with a zipper. It also has a 4.9-star average rating from 183 reviews at Calpak. 

Size : 21x20x6 inches | Material : Nylon | Care : Spot Clean

Orvis Adventure Tote

• Three interior pockets
• Built-in luggage sleeve
• Personalizable
• Spot clean only

Orvis is an NBC Select Travel Awards winner . The brand’s Adventure Tote, which has a 4.9-star average rating from over 500 reviews at Orvis, is made out of a durable polyester that’s easy to spot clean, according to the brand. The tote has three interior pockets and a zip top to keep your items safe, and you can even personalize it with your initials for an additional charge.

Size : 14x19x9  inches | Material : Polyester | Care : Spot clean

Paravel Fold-Up Bag 

Paravel Fold-Up Bag

This Paravel duffel bag is great for everyday use and travel. It can fit a laptop of any size, three to five days worth of clothes and one to two pairs of shoes, according to the brand. Its water-resistant nylon material and lightweight design make it a great option for your beach trips, too.

“While I haven’t used this for the beach quite yet, I think it would be perfect,” says Schneider, who was sent the duffel by the brand to try. “It’s extremely lightweight, so when you’re carrying a million things across hot sand you won’t feel weighed down.”

Along with its main storage compartment, the duffel has a deep interior pocket and an exterior slip pocket. You can fold it flat and zip it into a square pouch for easy storage, too. “I love that you can fold it down super small, so it won’t take up a lot of space in a suitcase if you’re traveling to a beach vacation,” says Schneider. “Plus, the colors and customization options are cute.”

Size: Unfolded 18x11.5x11 inches and folded 8x9.75x2.75 inches | Material: Water-resistant Negative Nylon made from recycled plastic bottles | Care: Spot clean

Best crossbody beach bags

Baggu medium nylon crescent bag.

• Wide, adjustable strap
• Two interior pockets

NBC Select photo editor Vivian Le prefers this Baggu bag to a fanny pack — she says it’s roomier than most belt bags and you can wear it as a crossbody bag or slung on your shoulder. The bag is built with an adjustable strap and two interior pockets to keep you organized. The main compartment is large enough to fit most books or a Kindle if you like to read at the beach, says Le.

Size : 13.75x4x8 inches | Material : Recycled heavyweight nylon and a recycled ripstop nylon lining | Care : Machine-washable

Calpak Luka Belt Bag

• Interior zipper pocket
• Very lightweight
• Adjustable strap length
• Suitable for personal use only

I grew up walking distance from the beach, so portability was always top of mind when deciding which bag to pack my essentials in. I swear by Calpak’s Luka Belt Bag, which I can wear as a fanny pack or crossbody bag. I use it as my everyday bag, but it’s suitable for small to mid-sized beach necessities, too. It has a roomy zippered pocket on the interior and exterior of the main pouch, and you can adjust the strap’s length. The main pouch fits my phone and wallet case, earbuds, keys and sunscreen, and I usually put hair ties and other smaller items inside the zippered pockets. 

Size : 11x5.5x3.5 inches | Material : Polyester | Care : Spot clean

Best backpacks for the beach

Yeti hopper m20 backpack.

Yeti Hopper M20 Backpack Cooler

• Tight magnetic seal
• Functions as a cooler
• Puncture- and UV ray-resistant

“Pool and beach days require so much packing, especially if you have a big family like myself,” says NBC Select associate reporter Bianca Alvarez . “So when it comes to big bags like this Yeti, I can double it as a cooler for all of our drink and food essentials and to store necessities like sunscreen.”

The cooler backpack can hold up to 36 cans of your favorite beverage, plus it has a magnetically sealed top to prevent leaks, according to the brand. In addition to fitting all her family’s beach needs, Alvarez says the bag is also easy to carry because its straps offer the right amount of cushion and support.

“It performs spectacularly and keeps drinks and food good for hours, plus it protects my other belongings from getting damaged since the fabric is both puncture- and UV ray-resistant,” she says. The bag also has an interior pocket to keep your phone, keys and other valuables safe. 

 Size : 16.3x9.9x18.1 | Material : Nylon | Care : Spot clean

Fjallraven Tree-Kanken

• Adjustable traps
• Zippered front pocket
• Comes in one size

I roll up my towel or blanket and attach it to the bottom of this backpack using its adjustable straps, and I pack the main compartment with a water bottle, snacks, portable speaker, sunglasses and more before heading to the beach. The backpack is lightweight and has a zippered front pocket, which is where I put an e-reader or my phone. 

Size : 28x14x36 inches | Material : Pine Weave lyocell | Care : Spot clean

Béis The Terry Backpack Cooler

• Has a cooler compartment
• Two water bottle pockets
• Two slip pockets

Béis makes some of our favorite work totes and luggage sets . This backpack from the brand has a built-in cooler, giving you a designated place to store drinks and keep them cool at the beach. You can remove the cooler compartment or use it on its own since it has its own handle. The backpack has a zipper pocket on the exterior, as well as another zipper pocket, two water bottle holders, two slip pockets with an elastic closure and a key leash on the interior.

Size : 30x18x50 cm | Material : Faux leather trim, recycled poly liner | Care : Spot clean

Why trust NBC Select?

I’m an associate updates editor at NBC Select. I have been covering apparel and accessories for over a year at NBC Select and have published guides about water-resistant sneakers , kids backpacks and more. For this piece, I researched dozens of beach bags on the market and included those recommended by NBC Select staff, plus highly rated options from reader favorite brands and retailers.

Catch up on NBC Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

Zoe Malin is an associate updates editor for Select on NBC News.

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

What Are the Best Beach Bags?

Beach days (or weeks) can call for a long packing list: a swimsuit , a sun hat , sunscreen , and, of course, the bag you’ll use to transport everything. And if you’re planning to use it all season long (or again next summer ), it’ll have to stand up to some tough conditions — we’re talking triple-digit temperatures, greasy tanning -oil stains, and even hauling a damp towel (or soggy swim diaper ) — all while keeping your belongings safe along a crowded shoreline. But the ideal beach bag doesn’t need to be overly fancy. “It’s going to get sandy and potentially wet, so I don’t want anything too precious,” says Aemilia Madden , a brand consultant and former senior fashion editor at The Zoe Report.

To uncover the best options, we spoke to 13 cool people — including stand-up paddleboarders , surfers , personal stylists , and our own writers and editors — about their recommendations, plus we pulled celebrity-approved favorites from our archives. Below, you’ll find 12 styles at every price point, made of sturdy canvas, waterproof vinyl, woven straw, and more.

Best under-$50 beach bags

For over two decades, Gina Bradley , the founder of stand-up paddleboarding company Paddle Diva and a mom of two, has been a fan of Lands’ End bags. She says this is her top choice for schlepping the “many accessories that go along with taking care of kids when heading to the beach.” The durable canvas tote has a water-repellent base, and the widely stitched seams give it a clean look and keep it upright even when it’s placed in the sand, Bradley says. But it’s also her go-to for everyday use — or, as she puts it, “it’s actually my handbag.” It has easy-access compartments, like an outside pocket to hold lip balm , and four interior pockets for sunscreen, sunglasses, or business cards, Bradley adds. (She even uses the key-ring attachment to hold extra hair ties.) And like the L.L. Bean Boat Tote seen in the Strategist 100 , this Lands’ End option can be monogrammed for an additional $8. (Bradley’s bag is embroidered with “Paddle Diva.”)

After borrowing this tote from a roommate, Strategist junior writer Anna Yeo says she likes it more than the Baggu bags she owns. While the exterior is made of durable polyester, the inside is protected by a waterproof lining to keep valuables clean and dry. Yeo also praises the zippered top, which prevents sand from collecting at the bottom, and adds that it has plenty of space for all her seaside essentials. And at only $11, you can’t beat the Baggu-caliber quality for the price.

Strategist writer Kitty Guo originally received this BonBon tote (bundled with the brand’s Swedish candy ) as a gift; however, she quickly took a liking to the 100 percent cotton bag and its “vegan fish monger” theme. Guo says it has three interior compartments, one larger and two small ones, so her items never float around inside. It’s also big enough to fit a blanket, a large towel, sunglasses, sunscreen, a phone, keys, and more. Guo adds that the bright-cobalt print prevented her from losing it on the busy Rockaway Beach boardwalk.

Best under-$100 beach bags

Liz Parry , a veteran ocean lifeguard and the founder of Hamptons Swim , owns this water- and tear-resistant vinyl bag, which a client gifted to her about a year ago. Parry gives the carryall high marks for durability (it can transport her saltwater- or chlorine-soaked items ) and comfort (its supportive straps can sustain loads packed to the brim), she says. Small brass grommets along the base are a clever addition, as they help to filter out sand or pebbles, Parry says. She describes the style as timeless with a “quality coastal vibe” perfect for those, herself included, who summer in the Hamptons. It’s available in three sizes and 12 colors, and a monogram can be added for an additional $13.

L.A.-based stylist Charline Zeroual owns this beach bag from sustainable brand Rivedroite Paris and says its quality and spaciousness are unmatched: “It’s big enough to carry all your family’s towels, your children’s toys, your picnic, and all the essentials for a successful beach day.” This machine-washable tote is made from a durable recycled poly-cotton canvas, which means it won’t stain easily. Plus, it’s foldable and can be tucked away in the offseason, Zeroual says. Available in four colorways, including the beige shade shown here, each bag has a ’70s-inspired floral lining and comes with a reusable drawstring pouch that’s perfect for stashing sandy swimsuits or shoes.

Personal stylist Joy Asibey-Gabriel came across this bag (in a slightly different colorway) two years ago in Accra, Ghana, at a boutique inside the Kempinski Hotel . Handmade from colorful recycled plastic, which makes it water-resistant and “indestructible,” the tote is roomy enough to fit towels, snacks, sunglasses, and books, Asibey-Gabriel says. Describing this carryall as a “maximalist’s dream,” she also praises the boxy, structured shape, which gives it an elevated look, and says strangers regularly stop her to compliment the tote and ask where she purchased it.

Although Madden once opted for basic canvas totes, she now calls this roomy checked alternative her go-to for lugging beach necessities. It’s lightweight and sturdy, plus it’s machine-washable, which is essential if the bag gets overly sandy, she says. And when Madden brings snacks or needs to carry a wet towel or surfing booties , this hand-printed tote can get wet and survive spills. A zippered pocket inside is ideal for protecting any technology or small belongings (such as keys, a Kindle , or a camera), but Madden adds a makeup case to stow other small items.

This bag from Monday Swimwear comes recommended by Vanessa Rivers , a surfer, travel writer, and co-founder of We Are Travel Girls , who says it’s lightweight and highly versatile. As someone who’s constantly visiting new beach destinations, Rivers says she likes that she can rely on the look of the natural seagrass material, and its just-right size to pair with any outfit. “I recently spent a week in Bodrum, Turkey , and I used this bag every day at beach clubs and every night for going out to dinner and drinks,” Rivers says. And it still looks brand-new after almost two years of constant travel, she adds.

Best over-$100 beach bags

Graphic artist Geoff McFetridge can’t live without this French nylon tote , which he began using in the ’90s on surf trips . McFetridge describes the brand’s bags as simple but says the largest size is heavy-duty enough to hold four wet suits and he has even carried his daughters in them. He adds that they’re easy to wash because “you can basically just hose them out and throw ’em on the beach ” (though the tote does have an interior zip pocket to keep your belongings dry prewash). New York deputy editor Alexis Swerdloff, who owned a similar style in middle school, repurchased the medium size recently and says she’s now using it as her work bag .

Whitney Bickers , owner of the online boutique Myrtle , discovered this line through stylist Erica Kim and says she became “hooked” when she learned of the brand’s accessibility-friendly designs. “Disability visibility has become increasingly important to me as a disabled designer and parent ,” Bickers says. She owns this tote and says features like the D-loops, which help clip the bag onto a wheelchair, and the customizable strap lengths , which the brand offers free of charge, make this beach bag a universal option. It’s also sturdy and stain-resistant thanks to the wipeable waxed cotton and the water-repellent nylon interior. A small pocket on the inside keeps her phone secure, and Bickers says once the summer ends, the Market Tote is neat-looking enough to use on everyday outings with her kids.

[Editor’s note: Some of the Parts lists its prices in Canadian dollars, so this is an approximation in U.S. dollars.]

Best over-$200 beach bags

Unlike the other bags on this list, this is a true backpack . It comes recommended by Catherine Bruhwiler , Canada’s first professional female surfer , because it’s extremely durable and versatile. “I can go straight from work at the surf shop with my laptop to the boat and on a remote beach adventure or an evening salmon fish,” she says. A Tofino, British Columbia, local, Bruhwiler says weather on Canada’s west coast can range from rain and cold fog to super-sunny, but this all-day pack , which has a 29-liter capacity, can handle the elements. That’s because it’s completely submersible and has corrosionproof zippers, meaning the hardware won’t rust after repeated exposure to saltwater; plus, the wide top-zipper closure is ideal for loading surfing gear into the main compartment. Bruhwiler also praises Patagonia’s return policy , which ensures the company will repair or replace the item if it rips or snags. “I hope to have this bag until the end of my days,” she says.

Actress Teresa Palmer uses this on beach days, but over the years, it has also acted as her diaper bag , carry-on , and everyday backpack . She says the one-of-a-kind pick has numerous pockets, including one inside with a zip closure and key-fob clasp, plus two side pockets with magnetic snap closures. It also comes with removable shoulder and cross-body straps. Palmer says she appreciates that the company supports women in Guatemala who create the handwoven designs, providing an economy for them and their community.

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Shop New Arrivals

The 9 Best Beach Bags Of 2024, Tested By Style Editors

Our favorite is the Out Of The Woods KeepCool Nairobi Jute Market Cooler.

Women's Health may earn commission from the links on this page, but we only feature products we believe in. Why Trust Us?

If you live by the beach, have a pool, or have a sunny vacation coming up, trust us when we tell you a beach bag is a necessity. First of all, it's typically on the larger side, so it can hold everything from towels, snacks, stanley cup alternatives , your favorite spray sunscreen , and toys for your kids. Plus, the best beach bags are made out of materials that will handle pretty much anything (water and sand included!). You shouldn't have to sacrifice your favorite weekender bag to use at the beach—we recommend having a specific container that you can rely on for days out and about in the sun.

Best Beach Bags

Best Overall Beach Bag

Out of the woods keepcool nairobi jute market cooler.

Best Cooler Beach Bag

Cotopaxi hielo 12l cooler bag.

Best Tote Beach Bag

Charles & keith large kay canvas tote bag.

Yes, you can easily find an affordable beach bag on Amazon. However, after testing many different options, we discovered that spending a bit more money means getting better durability, which is essential for a beach bag (you want it to last through anything, right?). We have a solid mix of affordable and splurge-worthy options on this list, but we're recommending our absolute favorites that have stood the test of time. Keep reading to discover our nine picks as well as what to look for when shopping.

What to consider

Above all, we found that one of the most important things to look for in a beach bag is that it's water-resistant. After all, you will be by the water all day, so you want some extra protection just in case. While we found that few bags are totally waterproof, many on this list are water-resistant, including the Calpak Terra 35L Water Resistant Zippered Tote Bag and the Cotopaxi Cooler Bag , which is made with a fully waterproof lining that's 100 percent polyester. This helps make sure the interior doesn't get damaged if your liquids spill en route to the beach.

If you want to bring snacks to the beach, interior insulation, which is usually made of polyethylene, is also important so your drinks and food stay chilled throughout the day. Even though a bag is water-resistant doesn't mean it has insulation. We've outlined which bags are insulated, below.

Many bags on this list have a nylon exterior, which is also a great material for keeping your belongings dry. Nylon is super durable and strong, so opt for this material if you want your bag to last through anything. Polyester is also a great option if you're looking for durability. A few nylon bags on this list are the Baggu Crescent Bag , the State Bags Wellington Cabana Tote , and the Cotopaxi Cooler Bag , which has that waterproof lining for double protection from the outside-in.

Another key to a solid beach bag is size. During testing, we found that larger bags (around 20-plus liters) were the most convenient, as they can fit a lot. We also found that the bigger the bag, the more organization compartments there are, which is essential for those of you who like to bring a lot with you to the beach. There is one smaller option on this list, the Baggu Crescent Bag , which is perfect for the minimalists of the group. Despiteits smaller size, it's actually super roomie.

How we chose

For the past few months, style & commerce editor Lily Wohlner has vetted the bestselling, top-rated beach bags for women. Then, I tried them all during pool and beach days. I looked for bags that are big, have a lot of pockets, look and feel durable, and have a structured thickness. These bags made the cut across materials and size.

So, are you ready to finally discover the perfect beach bag that you can wear easily and effortlessly this summer? We've got you with this tried-and-tested list.

We tested many beach bags, but the KeepCool Market Cooler from Out Of The Woods won us over on the design front. It looks super cute with its jute weaving, but it also has an insulated interior. This addition comes in handy when you want to bring snacks, drinks, and other warm weather cravings to the beach. Even the outer pocket is insulated, which provides extra storage for snacks and beverages.

During testing, we found that this bag keeps our hot food feeling warm for about thirty minutes. And, we felt like our cold foods stayed chilled for many hours if our bag was kept out of the sun. We didn't even have to use ice packs! However, if you want your beverages to be extra cold, you can def throw an ice pack or two into the bag. Note: The brand does not recommend using ice cubes inside the bag, unless they're sealed inside a Ziplock bag.

We do wish this bag was easier to buy—the only way you can purchase it is through the website itself. Plus, there is no information on the materials and care for this bag on the website, besides the fact that it's made from recycled paper. Lastly, we wish this bag was water-resistant on the outside, as that's much easier to deal with at the beach. However, upon receiving this bag, we were impressed by the quality and how long it keeps our food cold.

Read More: Best Foods To Bring To The Beach

Another option if you're in need of a cooler at the beach, this bag has a longer crossbody strap than the Out Of The Woods option, but it's def on the smaller side if you don't need something as large. We like this bag for solo trips to the beach, long hikes, or even long drives where you need something to keep your food insulated for longer periods of time. Another pro? The lining is waterproof.

Although this bag is on the smaller side, it's def mighty. It features a side pocket for your water bottle, a side carry strap, and a roll top with buckle closure. And you don't only have to use it for insulation. One of our testers actually used this bag as their carry on when flying to a beach vacation and said it held all their in-flight essentials, but also worked great for insulating snacks on the beach.

Another fun aspect of this bag is that each pack in this collection is one of a kind, so you don't know which color pattern you're going to get. While we like to pick out our own colors, this was a nice little surprise.

FYI, one of our testers found that this bag tends to sweat at the bottom when used with ice packs, which knocked its score down a bit.

Charles & Keith Large Kay Canvas Tote Bag

This bag feels a bit more upscale than most picks on this list, and we attribute that to its tote-like feel. It's made from a lightweight canvas material, which feels super sturdy and durable, but also complements any vacation style (I mean, how cute is this colorway?).

Most beach bags we tested don't include a zipper, but we love that this one does. Not only does it keep our belongings safe and protected during travel or at the beach, but it also helps keep cold snacks chilled. However, this bag is not insulated like the Cotopaxi or Out Of The Woods ones.

Another pro is that this bag has a detachable crossbody strap, so you can wear it on your shoulder, sling it across your chest, or simply hold it.

We were most surprised when we opened this bag and discovered how big it was inside. It's not huge when you look at it, but when you open it up, you can immediately tell that this bag holds a lot . We packed a towel, a handful of skincare products, and snacks and found that we had plenty of room to spare.

This bag is not waterproof, so it shouldn't go in the water. However, it def sits pretty on your pool or beach chair.

Calpak Terra 35L Water Resistant Zippered Tote Bag

Everyone needs a water-resistant bag for the beach, and this one from Calpak is our favorite option. While it's not insulated like the first two options, a spill, some sand, or ocean water stands no chance against this bag.

Its larger size accommodates exterior side pockets for large water bottles, a front organization pocket, and even a phone pocket. It has a large interior, along with a side pocket that's big enough to fit a laptop.

We love that this bag is super sturdy, so it holds its shape and stands on its own. This makes it perfect for travel, too. Although it's on the bigger side, we find that it fits under the plane seat, even when stuffed to the brim. Take this with you on your next beach vacay and trust me when I say you'll fall in love with one use.

Our one qualm is that the shoulder straps are a bit uncomfortable. So, if this bag is totally full, the rough straps make it painful to carry longer distances.

Keep Reading: Best Gym Bags

Bagsmart Foldable Tote Bag with Drawstring Storage Bag

There are many other bags on this list that are awesome for travel, like the Calpak option and the Cotopaxi one. However, this water-resistant one comes out on top if you're looking for a beach bag that doubles as a take-with-you-anywhere bag.

I own a few travel bags from Bagsmart, and I'll be the first to tell you that they're some of the most coveted items in my closet. And, this one is no different. First of all, the design is so simple and cute. SecondLY, it never creases or gets wrinkly after being stored for long periods of time. The durable polyester fabric makes it bounce back into shape each time I prepare it for travel. Just when you thought it couldn't get any better, it’s packable and folds into a small pouch, making it easy to bring along as your beach bag without taking up extra space on the plane.

It's also super roomy with its 20L capacity, and features four separate pockets and a drawstring storage bag. The main zipper compartment can easily hold a laptop, beach necessities, and all the extra clothes you need, and the front pocket makes access to all your smaller necessities so easy.

For all of these amazing qualities, it's extremely affordable, making it an awesome gift that packs a punch. Before you buy it, though, know that this bag isn't as sturdy as others on this list.

Baggu Medium Nylon Crescent Bag

If I could own this bag in every color, I would. As a city dweller, it comes in handy during long days out and about because it's so compact, but its also large enough to hold more than just the essentials. Plus, it has two interior pockets to keep things organized.

I'll be the first to admit that this bag isn’t packed with extras (I mean, it is only 13 inches long) but we love having a smaller bag for the beach when we don't need a ton of stuff or if we're just stopping by the beach for a few hours.

It’s incredibly easy to clean due to its nylon material. It’s machine washable, making it perfect for sandy beach days, and it has an adjustable strap, allowing you to wear it over your shoulder or crossbody. While we wish there were a few more pockets on the inside of the bag to keep things organized, we love how simple it is.

Lands End Packable Beach Tote

Don't want a bulky beach bag? Opt for this Packable tote, which is super compact and fits in your car, suitcase, or duffle without a problem. We love how oversized this bag is, making it easy for us to fit all of our belongings. Plus, the inside has mesh pockets and zippered pockets, which helps with organization.

Our fave part about this bag is that it's packable, so it zips up into an easy-to-carry bundle, making it perfect for travel. And, when it needs a clean, just throw it right into the wash. However, it shouldn't need a clean too often, as it's sand- and water-resistant.

One downside is that the bag's raincoat-like material can be a bit loud and crinkly instead of soft. Additionally, it only comes in patterns or bright colors, which might clash with some of your fits, so we wish the brand offered more neutral tones.

State Bags Wellington Cabana Tote

Finding a pool or beach bag that's discreet and doesn't scream "mom bag" is no easy feat, but this sheer option from State Bags is different. Not only is it chic and stylish, it's also super durable, easy to clean (yay!), and can hold just about anything you need. It fits everything from a portable speaker and beach towels to sunscreen and beach toys.

Made of water-resistant fabric, you never have to worry about it getting wet, because that's the last thing you want to stress about during a day in the sun. If you have certain valuables you want to keep safe and sound, the bag comes with a detachable pouch that keeps your them safe and sound.

After testing, we found that this bag is also super comfortable to carry, thanks to its webbing straps. If you don't want to carry such a large bag, it also comes in an adorable mini version .

We do wish this bag had a few more interior pockets for better organization.

Mark & Graham Oversized Ribbon Straw Beach Tote

Mark & Graham's Oversized Straw Beach Tote is exactly what comes to mind when you think of a beach bag: woven and cute with pops of color. But this one also has the option to add a custom monogram of your choice, which is a welcome twist to the classic tote. Plus, the straps and monogram font come in tons of different colors.

And we don't only love this for the beach—it's awesome to throw over your shoulder for a casual farmer's market outing, a trip to the park, and more.

Like many other bags on this list, we wish there were more interior pockets, but we do love the interior size of this bag.

Shop other bags we love

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Lily Wohlner is the Associate E-Commerce Editor of Women’s Health. An expert in recommending the best products to add-to-cart, she knows what it takes for a product to receive a solid five stars (especially when it comes to beauty!). Starting her career as a freelance makeup artist, Lily has since moved to the editorial world, where she has generated content for brands including Oribe, NewBeauty, Dermstore, SkinStore, and LOOKFANTASTIC. When she’s not zenning out with a pore-clearing mask, the Lower East Side dweller is cheffing up a new recipe with her roommate or thrifting for the perfect pair of blue jeans. Follow her on Instagram . 

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Home » Gear » The ABSOLUTE Best Beach Bags Money Can Buy (2024 UPDATE)

The ABSOLUTE Best Beach Bags Money Can Buy (2024 UPDATE)

Summer is approaching, and the last thing you want is to be that person on the beach with a Trader Joe’s grocery bag as your beach bag! True, they’re pretty solid and will no doubt keep the sand out, but you can consider yourself severely unstylish whipping one out at a beach party.

There’s something special about heading to the beach. The fun games, friendly vibes, and, of course, the gorgeous summer scenery. But a lot goes into a good beach day. If you happen to forget a bathing suit, towel, sunscreen, hat, umbrella, and most importantly, snacks, you’re doomed for an unpleasant experience. 

Some might prefer the trendy woven basket look, while others opt for a more simple aesthetic. Whatever your preference, beach bags are essential for keeping your belongings organized, sand-free, and out of the way of unfriendly tides (one iPhone down, and trust me, I won’t leave the house without my waterproof beach bag).

Other than helping carry and protect your goodies from the sand and water, what else makes a high-quality beach bag? If you ask us, we reckon it’s all about capacity, weight, waterproofing, durability, compartments, and design. Phew – quite a lot to consider.

A good beach bag is deceptively spacious, easy to clean, and has multiple sealable pockets for your valuables. With this in mind, we’ve scoured the web for the best beach bags money can buy. 

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In a Hurry? Here are the Best Beach Bags on the Market:

1. dejaroo mesh beach bag, 2. nomatic collapsible tote bag, 3. kavu delray shoulder bag, 4. peak design everyday tote, 5. cotopaxi alpa gear tote, 6. c gear sand-free tote, 7. stubble & co the cooler, 8. mahi leather mini bucket bag, 9. nomatic navigator sling bag, 10. osprey arcane tote, 11. sea to summit lightweight dry bag, 12. stubble & co the rolltop waterproof beach backpack, 13. yeti camino 35.

Dejaroo Mesh Beach Bag

• Capacity > 68 liters
• Dimensions > 16.5 x 8.5 x 15 inches
• Price > $19.65

Nomatic Collapsible Tote Bag

• Capacity > 28 liters
• Dimensions > 19 x 13.5 x 7 inches
• Price > $69.99

KAVU Delray Shoulder Bag

• Capacity > 1 liter
• Dimensions > 4.8 oz
• Price > $35

Peak Design Everyday Tote

• Capacity > 15 liters
• Dimensions > 42 x 32 x 12 cm
• Price > $150

Cotopaxi Alpa Gear Hauler Tote

• Capacity > 60 liters
• Dimensions > 20 x 14 x 14 inches
• Price > $110

C Gear Sand-Free Tote

• Dimensions > 23 x 16 x 0.25 inches
• Price > $40

Stubble & Co The Cooler

• Capacity > 28.5 liters
• Dimensions > 40cm (H) x 31cm (W) x 23cm(D)

Mahi Leather Mini Bucket Bag

• Capacity > 5 liters
• Dimensions > W19cm x H21.5cm x D11.5cm
• Price > $170

Nomatic Navigator Sling Bag

• Capacity > 10 liters
• Dimensions > 20.78 x 12.17 x 6.1 inches

Osprey Arcane Tote

• Capacity > 20 liters
• Dimensions > 16.93H x 14.96W x 9.06D inches
• Price > $135

Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag

• Capacity > 2 liters to 35 liters
• Dimensions > 5.1 x 11.4 inches to 11.8 x 27.6 inches
• Price > $20

Stubble & Co. The Rolltop Waterproof Beach Backpack

• Dimensions > 30cm (W) x 44cm (H) x 15cm (D) (rolled)
• Price > $147

Yeti Camino 35

• Capacity > 35 liters
• Dimensions > 25 x 37 x 46 cm

The 13 Best Beach Bags you can Buy:

The best waterproof beach bags, final thoughts on the best beach bags.

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Whether you’re heading to the beach for your routine morning swim or spending an extended day lounging around with your friends and family, there is a lot to fit into a beach bag. 

Read on for a list of the best beach bags you can buy that combine convenient storage solutions with style and waterproofing.

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• Capacity – 68 liters
• Dimensions – 16.5 x 8.5 x 15 inches
• Price – $19.65

Usually, you wouldn’t expect much from a bag that costs under twenty bucks, but the Dejaroo Mesh Sand Free Bag will prove you otherwise. It’s all in the name – the bag is made using rubberized tight-weave mesh material., which means any sand that does find its way into the bag will just fall out on its own. 

Unless you happen to be visiting a beach with the finest sand in the world, a sandy bag shouldn’t be an issue! Once you’re done, you can just shake off the sand and debris from the bag, leaving all your belongings both clean and dry. Love it!

It’s also a super well-designed, not to mention spacious bag. It’s the perfect size to fit a towel, swimsuits, lotions, and snacks in without jamming everything into a small tote. Aside from the main inner compartment, it has eight oversized outer pockets to stack things like your sunnies, water bottles, and snacks. Keep your phone and any money safe and secure in the zippered inside pocket.

You won’t be complaining about carrying what we reckon is the best beach bag around , which has long and comfortable straps to hoist over your shoulder. In fact, I would even recommend using this bag for other adventures, too. Take it to the gym or the pool, or even use it as a trendy diaper bag for a new baby – it’s machine washable, and the mesh doesn’t hold onto any bad smells.

• Capacity – 28 liters
• Dimensions – 19 x 13.5 x 7 inches
• Price – $69.99

I’m a huge fan of a tote. Easy to pack, comfortable to wear, and even easier to clean, they really can be one of the most convenient products to own. Nomatic’s Collapsible Tote Bag is one of the simpler products in their extensive range but is absolutely not to be underrated. It’s so versatile that you could use it for a range of activities such as work, the gym, a park day, or, of course, the beach. I don’t know about you, but as a digital nomad, I find myself combining a beach day with a work day more often than not!

While it isn’t waterproof, it is weather-resistant. Made from durable mesh materials, the bag is built to get you through sandy and rainy days. One of my favorite things about the bag is its sleek and simple design. It’s available in a variety of colors and boasts a minimalistic yet practical aesthetic – just the look I was going for. It’s got to be one of the most stylish bags when it comes to beach totes.

Storage-wise, the tote has multiple compartments and pockets to help keep your belongings organized and protected from the sand. The padded laptop sleeve, water bottle pocket, and an RFID-blocking pocket for valuables just scratch the surface.

• Capacity – 1 liter
• Dimensions – 4.8 oz
• Price – $35

If you’re the type to bring a handbag and a tote to the beach, KAVU has delivered the best beach handbag for the job. It’s small, the size of a Patagonia bum bag, for example, and is the perfect size to stash your phone, wallet, and sunnies. Best of all, the bag doubles as an everyday shoulder bag, which means when you leave the beach, you can leave your tote in the car and continue with the day or evening with your KAVU Delray Shoulder Bag.

The bag comes in two color palettes: a red/orange and a blue/brown combination. Both are equally as attractive; it all depends on the look you’re going for. If you’re popping down to the beach for a quick dip, sunset, or a game of volleyball, this small bag will fit in all the absolute necessities (except for a towel). It’s ideal for those who like to travel light and keep a low profile.

The main compartment has a two-way zipper, and there is also a front zip mesh pocket and an internal zippered pocket. I have to be honest; I enjoy this bag as an everyday travel purse rather than a beach bag (but this is purely because I enjoy an oversized bag for the beach). It’s lightweight, looks good, and fits in all the essentials for a day out. What more could you ask for?

• Capacity – 15 liters
• Dimensions – 42 x 32 x 12 cm
• Price – $150

I can’t hide my love for tote bags, especially when stuffing in a towel and extra clothing for a beach day. Well, the Everyday Tote by Peak Design has to be one of my favorites. Sure, it comes in at a steep price for a tote, but you’ll really be paying for true quality and convenience with this one. Not to mention, it looks damn good, and style is always a big plus, if not the whole purpose, of owning the best beach bag in the biz.

You can choose from a cream or black color, both of which combine a sleek and clean aesthetic with thoughtful functionality. The bag is so well designed that it will make keeping your things organized feel like a leisurely activity – trust me! 

If you plan to take your photography equipment to the beach, this is the perfect beach bag to store and protect your valuables. There are flexible dividers in the bag that make it easy to stash different equipment, and the extra wide top access closes with a magnetic clasp and a waterproof UltraZip.

Other extras include a removable shoulder strap, two cord hook external straps that allow you to carry a towel or jumper on the outside of the bag, and an anchor link key tether to make sure you never have to dig through the sand for your keys.

• Capacity – 60 liters
• Dimensions – 20 x 14 x 14 inches
• Price – $110

Cotopaxi is a clear leader in the outdoor bag world, and their Allpa Gear Hauler Tote is no exception. What looks like a traditional cooler bag with a classic box shape is actually a convenient tote-inspired bag designed to help you haul your gear from home to your destination. 

The semi-structured outer material makes it easy to load things into the bag without losing its shape, but it also means it can still be maneuvered and molded without feeling like a plastic cooler box.

Be it your favorite bench in a park, the beach, or on a hike; this bag is the ideal go-to for transporting your things from A to B. Seriously, it’s so big that you could fit in your climbing gear, or skiing equipment when beach season is over.

The main compartment is the most spacious, but the bag also has an exterior zippered pocket and a few interior pockets that you can slip your phone and wallet in to keep things properly organized. When the bag is packed, use the top compression straps to keep all your goodies secure.

I love this bag. It holds everything but the kitchen sink and looks good while doing it. I mean, it’s 60 litres! It’s bloody massive!

• Dimensions – 23 x 16 x 0.25 inches
• Price – $40

Another tote to grace this list of best beach bags on the internet, C Gear has released its classic Beach Tote Bag 2.0. Made from a super durable nylon fabric, this tote combines a traditional open-top design with the only patented sand-free technology on the market. 

There is a time and place for an open-top bag without a zipper, and the beach is usually it. That said, I wouldn’t be too eager to use this bag on a beach that is known not to be super safe from opportunistic crime. Because of this, I usually prefer a bag with a closing top, but it does have its place.

The bag has two convenient pockets, one sand-free for your phone and wallet and another solid button-up pocket for loose cash or sunnies. This makes it so much more than a gaping hole of portable goodness! For me, it also makes for a great alternative to a packable backpack when I want something light that I can roll up inside my bigger bag just for beach days.

The patented sand-free technology is a big thumbs up for this bag. The bottom part of the bag is made from a sophisticated weave, which means that the bag will basically rid itself of all sand as you make your way from the beach to the car. Jokes aside, it is self-cleaning – ideal for my lazy ass!!

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

Stubble & Co The Cooler

• Capacity – 28.5 liters
• Dimensions – 40cm (H) x 31cm (W) x 23cm(D)

Carrying a cooler to the beach can be a serious hack, if we’re being honest. Typically made with a hard shell and uncomfortable handles, there is always a ‘shotgun not’ moment deciding who has to carry the cooler box!

Well, with the Stubble & Co. The Cooler, you’ll be fighting over who gets to carry the drinks. They’ve created the ultimate cooler box and best beach bag for those of us who like to kick back with a can or two!

By combining the cooler with backpack straps they’ve made it easy to lug your heavy drinks and refrigerated snacks wherever you need to. It’s hands down one of the best coolers on the market whether you choose to use it at the beach or not!

The Stubble & Co cooler forms a stable cube design with a large central compartment. Of course, this section of the bag is ultra-insulated and designed to keep your drinks icy and your snacks crispy. But there’s more: the bag also has a cutlery and plate pocket with designated sections to hold your picnic equipment. If you aren’t going for an extensive picnic, this pocket can be used to keep your phone, wallet, keys… you name it.

I’m a big fan of how easy this bag is to clean, too. When you get home, simply wipe it down with a warm cloth, and you’re good to go.

• Capacity – 5 liters
• Dimensions – W19cm x H21.5cm x D11.5cm
• Price – $170

For those of us who like bringing a small handbag to the beach, the Mahi Leather Mini Bucket Bag is a good shout. It’s by no means a beach bag in the traditional sense, but it will easily serve as a small beach handbag if this is what you’re looking for. It’s one of our favourite travel bags for women and can easily be used on a night out as well as a day at the beach.

The bag is small, with only five liters of capacity, to be specific. It has a long extendable shoulder strap and a top opening compartment that can be secured by tightening the leather cables. Made from 100% full-grain leather and edgy brass eyelets and clasps, it’s built to last and to look good.

To be extra clear, you won’t fit your towel and sunscreen in this beach bag (unless we’re talking tester-sized sunscreen!). This bag is more to keep your phone, wallet, keys, and sunglasses protected at the beach, all while doubling as a city handbag. If you’re looking for something a bit bigger then check out the other awesome bags Mahi has to offer .

• Capacity – 10 liters
• Dimensions – 20.78 x 12.17 x 6.1 inches

Designed for the traveler who likes to combine city exploring, work, and a beach adventure in one day, Nomatic’s Navigator Lite Sling is the perfect crossbody bag for the job. It’s made from a water-resistant material, has a comfortable padded back panel and strap, and includes a protective laptop sleeve, offering the ultimate combo of style and functionality.

The adjustable straps make it possible to wear as a crossbody bag, sling bag, or shoulder bag. As someone who doesn’t love the idea of a sling bag, this adjustable strap feature suits me well.

While it may not be waterproof, it is made from super durable 400D Nylon by 330 Poly water-resistant materials, making sure no rain or spills will affect your laptop or other valuables in the bag. When it comes to travel slings , this one really packs a punch!

My favorite thing about this bag is how easy it is to keep neat and organized. With multiple compartments and pockets, there is a space for everything, from your office supplies to your beach essentials. 

It’s the perfect bag for those who like to keep everything organized and are happy to travel light. For example, there are mesh and zippered pockets perfectly sized for your phone, wallet, chapstick, and power banks, as well as plenty of room for a small towel and swimwear.

If you’re looking for something even more compact, check out the Nomatic Navigator collapsible sling too.

• Capacity – 20 liters
• Dimensions – 16.93H x 14.96W x 9.06D inches
• Price – $135

The ultimate combination of a tote bag and a backpack, the Osprey Arcane Tote is a favorite not only for beach days but also for miscellaneous activities. Its super adaptable design makes it one of the best Osprey bags on the market at the moment for travel.

This epic beach bag comes in a variety of color combinations and is made from sturdy and recycled materials with a PFC-free DWR coating. This means it’s easy to clean and really allows it to stand the test of time.

Carry the bag as a backpack or a tote, whichever takes your fancy. Both the backpack straps and tote handles can be stowed away when not in use, leaving the bag looking sleek and simple – a timeless style we all love. 

Inside the bag, there is a padded laptop sleeve and various internal organizational compartments and pockets where you can stash 20 liters worth of beach essentials. Closed with a zip and a roll top secured with a metal buckle, you can rest assured no one will be sneakily sliding their hands into your bag when you aren’t looking… and it keeps that pesky sand out!

The price point of this bag is a real winner, too. Coming in around $135, this is not only a suitable beach bag but also a day-to-day staple for work, gym, and even traveling. 

• Capacity – 2 liters to 35 liters
• Dimensions – 5.1 x 11.4 inches to 11.8 x 27.6 inches
• Price – $20

The first fully waterproof bag to make this exclusive list, Sea to Summit’s Lightweight Dry Bag is the ultimate waterproof bag for any water-based adventure or activity. The bag is super affordable and comes in a range of sizes ranging from 2 liters to 35 liters. The yellow color is strategic, allowing you to spot your bag in the water in case it falls off a canoe or gets washed out to sea.

It’s light enough to pack for a backpacking trip and sturdy enough to accompany you on just about any watersport or adventure, but it is less bulky than the other top beach and dry bags you might have used in the past, or indeed, on this list.

Like traditional dry sacks, the bag is closed with a hypalon roll-top closure system with a non-wicking closure strip that makes sure water doesn’t get into the bag even when it is shut closed. This said, no matter how waterproof the bag might be, I highly recommend double-bagging any valuable electronics that might be sensitive to water exposure. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, right?!

Stubble & Co. The Rolltop Waterproof Beach Backpack

• Dimensions – 30cm (W) x 44cm (H) x 15cm (D) (rolled)
• Price – $147

What do you get when you add a backpack and a waterproof dry bag together? The Rolltop Waterproof Beach Backpack by Stubble & Co ! This bag perfectly blends the functionality of a beach bag with epic waterproofing and pure style. It doesn’t have that same cheap rubbery feel that most drybags have, and you can really see that this is a high-quality product, even from a distance.

The bag comes in a range of colors, from pastel green to black and beige. It’s marketed as the ultimate backpack for all weather conditions. It also has a laptop compartment, a spacious interior with organized compartments, a bike light loop, and a lockable pocket.

Lightweight, durable, and super comfortable with a padded back pad and adjustable straps, I consider this the all-rounder beach backpack.

While it’s not designed exclusively for the beach, the bag sure does make an epic beach bag. It’s especially useful if you’re the type to work at a cafe by the beach between dips since it is able to fit all your work goodies and beach essentials into one wonderful waterproof space.

• Capacity – 35 liters
• Dimensions – 25 x 37 x 46 cm

Yeti is a brand we’re all familiar with. Making great camping essentials and now beach accessories, Yeti is known for its high-quality materials and practical designs. Their Camino 35 bag comes in a range of color combinations, ranging from greens to oranges to purples and blacks.

This epic beach bag is a classic tote shape designed for whatever the day throws at you. But I like it most for boat trips, beach days, and even road trips. It’s made from a scratch-resistant, hard-shell-like material and is easy to clean no matter how wild things get!

Its molded base and deployable dividers make it easy to keep your gear organized while being easy to access and carry. Seriously, these dividers are a life-saver in such a big bag that would otherwise become an abyss of chaos (great name for a metal band!) The bottom of the bag is fully waterproof, meaning any rising tides or puddles of water ruin your day, or your stuff!

My main gripe with this bag is that it’s a bit big and bulky and doesn’t transfer into a good day-to-day bag once you’ve left the beach. That said, if you plan to use it just for the park or the beach, you shouldn’t run into any issues.

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Going to the beach sounds simple enough, right? But if you’re a seasoned beach-goer, and especially if you have children, the reality is often quite the opposite. It’s astonishing how much you actually need to bring with you when heading out for a day of ‘fun and relaxation’. 

Beach bats and games, a good book, litres of sunscreen, hats, sunnies, umbrellas, plenty of water, swimming clothes and a change of clothes… then there are the towels, snacks, your phone, wallet and keys – the list goes on. 

The best thing you can do to simplify your beach adventure is to travel with a bag that can fit all the goodies you want to bring along while protecting your valuables from the water, sand, and the odd greedy seagull… I’m looking at you, Steve!

Hopefully, this list has helped narrow down your search for the best beach bag for your needs. Regardless of whether you’re a surfer, a world-class tanner, or a stressed-out parent, there is a bag on the list for you.

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The Best Beach Bags to Stylishly Tote Your Vacation Essentials

And by “essentials,” we mean books.

Our editors handpick the products that we feature. We may earn commission from the links on this page.

When planning a fabulous day at the beach, your packing list should never be without a few key things. Flattering bathing suit ? Check. Comfortable flip-flops ? Check. Sunscreen , sun hat , and sunglasses ? Check, check, and check. The one thing missing—besides a captivating beach read —is a designated beach bag to store all your essentials .

Our Top Picks

Best Neoprene Bag

Qogir neoprene multipurpose beach bag.

Best Waterproof Beach Tote

Steele canvas basket corp waterproof beach tote.

Best Family-Size Beach Tote

Scout four boys extra-large beach bag.

Though they may seem basic, the best beach totes actually offer so much more than a simple everyday bag. They can feature extra pockets for moms hauling SPF for the kids , insulated interiors to keep your drinks cold, or allover-mesh designs to help let sand drain out.

From timeless straw totes to canvas carryalls, the best beach bags come in an array of designs for every style and price point. There are clever expandable and compact options you can pack flat in your suitcase or car after a trip. And when the sunny season fades away, many of these functional styles work just as well for running errands or as weekender or carry-on . Here are 19 of our favorite beach bags to tote your stuff in style.

Sporty, quick-drying neoprene makes this expandable tote an ideal beach option. It’s also incredibly versatile: You can style it three ways to make the bag larger or more compact, thanks to the adjustable straps.

Material: Neoprene and polyester | Size: 14 x 12.5 x 10 inches

If you have a large haul, try this durable nylon tote, which can withstand wear and tear. Its boxy bottom helps the bag stand upright, so you can easily load and unload your beach essentials.

Material: Vinyl-coated nylon | Size: 17 x 17 x 7 inches

Besides the fact that this bag is huge and has a zipper top, this nautical carryall makes our list because it's entirely water-resistant and features a "burst-proof" bottom.

Material: All-weather woven polyester | Size: 24 x 19 x 12 inches

L.L. Bean Open-Top Boat and Tote Bag

Nothing says classic Americana summer like the iconic L.L. Bean boat tote, which is available in four sizes. Handmade from heavy-duty canvas, these were meant for lugging. Add a monogram or cheeky saying to make it uniquely yours.

Material: Cotton canvas | Size: 17 x 19 x 10 inches

Andre Assous Atlas Natural Platino Raffia Tote Bag

Surprised to see Andre Assous in this list of bags? The Atlas raffia tote is one of the select styles part of the beloved footwear brand's inaugural handbag collection launch. The shimmering gold trim looks just as pretty on a sun-kissed shoulder as it does sparkling on your beach towel on the sand.

Material: Straw raffia | Size: 20 x 12 inches

Ubuntu Life Cotton Oversize Tote Bag

This eye-catching canvas tote is sure to make a statement during your next beach day. It boasts a hand-screen-printed pattern inspired by Kuba cloth, a graphic textile native to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Additionally, it has sturdy leather handles for easy transport.

Material: Canvas, cotton, and leather | Size: 19 x 14 x 7 inches

Mark & Graham Ribbon Straw Beach Tote

Not only do you have a wide assortment of colored ribbons to choose from, but you can also get these sweet straw totes monogrammed with your initials.

Material: Unlined paper straw | Size: 19 x 11 x 10.5 x 7 inches

Brouk & Co Capri Everyday Stripe Tote

Elevate your beach look with this shockingly affordable tote from Brouk & Co. “You get a lot of bang for your buck with this cotton canvas tote," Oprah said when selecting it for this year's Favorite Things list . "Doesn’t it look like a more expensive bag? It’s just right for the person in your life who needs to schlep a lot of stuff."

Material: Canvas and nylon | Size: 18 x 6 x 14 inches

Paravel Cabana Tote

Courtesy of editor- and Oprah-beloved bag brand Paravel, this medium-size tote is bound to become one of your new summer staples. It's composed of EcoCraft canvas made from recycled plastic bottles, comes in four bright color ways, and is monogrammable.

Material: Canvas | Size: 18.2 x 15.0 x 9.9 inches

The Sak Ellen Crocheted Insulated Tote

From crucial beach snacks to sunscreen, it's just not worth the risk to have a melted mess ruin your clothes, bag—or your day! Our proposition? The Sak's insulated tote. Don't let the adorable checkered crochet fool you: The inner cooler is fully insulated with waterproof lining for a worry-proof day in the sun. And if you act fast, you can find it seriously marked down at TJ Maxx.

Material: Recycled yarn | Size: 10 x 7 inches

Gap Straw Tote Bag

Gap's classic market tote will only get better with time. Made in woven paper straw with large vegan leather straps, you can carry the bag effortlessly on your shoulder in style.

Material: Straw | Size: 11.5 x 23 inches

Aerie Mesh Beach Tote Bag

Brighten up your beach commute with Aerie's cheery striped mesh tote. It's perfectly oversize to carry your cover-up, towels, and beach necessities, yet lightweight enough not to weigh you down.

Material: Polyethylene | Size: 17 x 15 inches

Shiraleah Formentera Ivory and Tan Striped Woven Tote Bag

How adorable is this versatile bag? Shiraleah's large woven tote has a summery striped pattern that you'll want to sport to the beach and beyond. The interior is fully lined and has a zipped pocket for your important items.

Material: Paper straw | Size: 23 x 12.5 x 7.5 inches

Aloha Collection Lightweight Splash-Proof Tote

Constructed in a technical "splash-proof" material, this lightweight, reversible tote will keep all your belongings protected. It also has an outside zipper pocket for quick access to your phone or keys.

Material: Polyester | Size: 17.3 x 15.7 x 5 inches

Monday Swimwear Large Lake Como Woven Bag

You'll look stylish even when you're schlepping with Monday Swimwear's Lake Como bag. Oversize and structured, it's perfect for toting everything from your towel and sun care to a change of clothes and a wide-brim hat.

Material: Seagrass | Size: 17.5 x 12.5 inches

Rae of Light Parker Lollipop Terry Tote

Maximalists: Forget the neutrals and nautical styles—this beach bag is for you. Made from soft and vibrant striped terry, Rae of Light's oversize tote is like carrying sunshine on your shoulder.

Material: Terry | Size: 16.9 x 15.7 x 5.1 inches

Sagiv & Sahen Waterproof Stripe Beach Bag

With zipped pockets inside and a waterproof lining outside, this extra-large striped beach bag truly does it all. Plus, it’s machine-washable, so you can simply toss it inside your washer to keep it looking good as new.

Material: Cotton | Size: 16 x 7 x 15 inches

Hoxis Mesh Beach Tote

An airy lightweight mesh tote is an ideal beach companion. This Amazon find has a nylon bottom for durability, and it comes in a plethora of fun colors from brights to neutrals.

Material: Mesh, nylon, and polyester | Size: 17.3 x 15.7 x 5 inches

Ivy Cove Canvas and Leather Terre Tote

While this may seem like your average tote bag, it's anything but. Inside, six large pockets keep everything from sunscreen to water bottles and snacks organized. The oversize silhouette makes it perfect for stashing plenty of towels and sundries.

Material: Cotton canvas | Size: 17 x 15 x 9 inches

J.Crew Como Woven Straw Tote

J.Crew's woven market bag is roomy enough for everything from plush towels to beach reads. Thanks to details like premium leather trim, it's also refined enough to carry around town.

Sara Klausing covers all things fashion and style for Oprah Daily . Follow her on Instagram .

Nashia Baker is a commerce editor at Hearst Magazines; she covers all things home and lifestyle across brands such as Oprah Daily, Cosmopolitan, Delish, and Esquire. Before joining Hearst, she highlighted small business owners, creatives, and the best shoppable content. 

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15 Best Beach Bags for All of Your Summer Essentials

These trendy and stylish picks will go with anything.

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When you're getting ready for the perfect day at the beach or that long anticipated summer vacation, make sure you have all the essentials with you: a fun new swimsuit , water bottle (hydration!), sunscreen , a fluffy beach towel and a beach bag to store everything. Whether you love the sand-filtering function of a technical beach bag, a classic canvas carryall or a straw bag we rounded up the absolute best beach bags for summer 2021. Oh, and yes, there are waterproof and water-resistant styles, too!

Before you head out, it's important to read the CDC guidelines about beaches and pools . You should also double check that your nearest beach/pool allows for you to maintain six feet from other guests while you're in and out of the water.

Dejaroo LLC Mesh Beach Bag

The eight pockets on this tote will come in handy when packing towels, water bottles, glasses, toys and sunblock. It's also water-proof with a price that can't be beat. 

kenyancraftscompany LAZIMA: Orange and Tan Sisal Basket Bag

Everyone needs a good basket bag for the beach. This one has a vibrant orange color and can hold just about everything you need for a day in the sun. 

ESVAN Large Tote Bag Shoulder Bag

With over 4,000 5-star reviews on Amazon, it'll be hard to find another beach bag that lives up to this hype. Many customers have said that it can hold all of the essentials and then some. They also noted how great it was that it's water-resistant. 

Mark and Graham Waterproof Beach Tote

The cheery colors of these beach bags scream summer fun. The lightweight vinyl fabric is durable, and even waterproof and tear resistant. It's ideal for days by the pool or packing groceries for a weekend road trip.

Hammacher Schlemmer The Sandless Beach Tote

Everyone loves the feeling of sand between their toes, but not so much on the inside of their beach bag! The material on this roomy tote allows sand and water to be filtered through the bottom and the sides. 

BAGGU Travel Cloud Bag

This spacious nylon bag is machine washable, and easily collapses into a pouch. It also has a detachable zip pocket, which can function as a clutch in a pinch. 

SidneyShanaeCompany Reusable Bag Linen Tote

We love that you can take this 100% premium linen tote to the beach, market, on a picnic — wherever! It's available in four beautiful colors, and reviewers note how incredibly functional it is. 

business & pleasure co. The Beach Bag

Faded pink cabana stripes decorate this sunny beach tote. It has an inner zipper pocket to keep your valuables free of sand. 

L.L. Bean Boat and Tote

Made in Maine since 1944, the Boat and Tote is a classic. These heavy-duty canvas totes come in a variety of sizes and the handles have been tested to hold up to 500 pounds.

Dagne Dover Laila Cage Tote

Available in two sizes, this vegan leather bag is a chic way to step up your beach bag game. You can carry everything you need (including a laptop if you go with the medium one!). 

State Bags Metallic Tote Bag

The zip top keeps the sand out so your valuables remain protected. It has a luggage slip sleeve, meaning you can hang it on your carry-on easily. 

ToteBagCompany Beach Please Tote Bag

This fun tote is made from 100% cotton and is good for all the basic you need for the beach. 

SHYLERO Beach Bag

We really like the nautical design here, but we love all the features of this bag, including the: waterproof interior lining, built-in keyholder and bottle opener, and a sand-and waterproof PVC CASE to hold all of your valuables. 

Bogg Bag Tote Bag

You won't bring the beach home with this bag, which has holes in it to filter out water and sand. It's extremely durable and easy to clean. 

Holly & Tanger Pro Backpack Tote

This ones for all the parents who need to have their hands free to chase after little ones. The backpack is super light, but has so many compartments, including one for shoes. It's water- and dirt-resistant, and worth the splurge if you also use it as your work bag and diaper bag. 

Kristen Saladino is the Executive Fashion Director for the Hearst Fashion Group. She styles covers + fashion stories for various Hearst brands.

Michelle is the deputy director of the Hearst Lifestyle Group, where she helps oversee multiple brand's strategy efforts on digital. Previously, she was the deputy editor and managing digital editor for Good Housekeeping. She has over 10 years of experience writing and editing lifestyle content.

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The Best Beach Bags of 2024

Products are chosen independently by our editors. Purchases made through our links may earn us a commission.

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Reviewed's mission is to help you buy the best stuff and get the most out of what you already own. Our team of product experts thoroughly vet every product we recommend to help you cut through the clutter and find what you need.

F-Color Mesh Beach Bag

Lots of compartment space

Lightweight

160 lb capacity

Mesh bottom isn’t protective

Possible odor

SHYLERO Waterproof Pool and Beach Bag

Very spacious interior

Comfortable to carry

Fairly heavy

LEDAOU Large Beach Tote Bag

Water and sand resistant

Various colors and styles

May not match the photos exactly

HOXIS Mesh Beach Tote Bag

Multiple color options

Doesn’t close

Not super sturdy

Bluboon Pool Beach Bag

Big and spacious

Lots of compartment spac

Multifunctional

Some find it to be too big

Updated March 23, 2023

Whether you’re going on a tropical vacation or just like to lounge by the pool on your lunch break, having a travel beach bag will make your life easier. Beach bags come in various sizes, colors, beautiful patterns, and offer different features; choosing the right one will depend on your individual needs. Some are large enough to fit everyone in the family’s beach gear, while others are perfect for a solo beach trip. A quality beach bag will at least be somewhat waterproof, comfortable to carry, and offer enough compartment space for every one of your favorite beach items—from lip balm to flip flops.

The recommendations in this guide are based on thorough product and market research by our team of expert product reviewers. The picks are based on examining user reviews, product specifications, and, in some limited cases, our experience with the specific products named.

This large and durable mesh beach bag is ideal for a family beach day because it can hold up to 160 pounds of items, yet is still under one pound in weight. Plus, it has eight breathable pockets and plenty of compartment space for sunblock, snacks, sunglasses, and other beach items. There is even a waterproof zipper on the inside to keep wet clothes and bathing suits separate from your dry items. In addition, it is made of strong ripstop mesh material and includes a mesh bottom and two comfortable shoulder straps. According to reviewers, the bottom of this bag doesn’t protect your stuff from getting wetm, so be sure to place this beach bag on dry ground.

Offered in a few different attractive patterns, such as blue-and-white stripes and pretty green zigzags, this very large beach bag can hold your towels and even a packable beach umbrella in its interior space. Plus, it will secure your items with the magnetic-close feature and waterproof, ripstop material that it’s made of. You can also conveniently store your phone, water, chapstick, and other items in the two outside pockets. What’s even better: it includes a built-in bottle opener and key holder. Although this bag may feel a bit bulky, it does have some pretty comfortable rope handles to get you and your items to-and-from the sand.

This large and functional mesh beach tote bag includes a spacious interior with a pocket to keep your wet items separate. What’s great is that it is made of water and sand resistant polyester, so you can avoid taking the sand from the beach home with you. Plus, it comes with comfortable eight-inch drop handles for easy carrying, as well as five outer pockets and two inner pockets for plenty of storage space. This beach bag is offered in various colors and styles, though some customers say that the photos of them can be a bit misleading.

This packable beach bag tote is great if you’re just looking for something basic to take to the beach, pool, or lake. It has a very simple and elegant design that doesn’t close, though many customers find it to be quite spacious for being so lightweight. Plus, it has one built-in pocket to hold your keys, wallet, phone, and other small items. It’s made of polyester and breathable nylon to keep your items cool. It even has a comfortable shoulder drop strap for you to walk with it for long periods of time. Some customers say that it isn’t the most sturdy, but it’s pretty decent considering its affordable price.

This beach bag is lightweight enough to bring either to the gym for a workout or beach for a day of rejuvenation. It’s made of polyester, with a nylon lining that gives it durability and water resistance. You can easily carry it to and from your destination with the smooth carry straps. Plus, it has an easily accessible external pocket in the front, hidden inner pocket, and protective pocket for your wet items. Although this beach bag is super spacious, some customers find it to be a little too big.

Easy to carry

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Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.

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Lily Hartman is a staff writer who also enjoys writing magazine articles about health and outdoor recreation. In her free time, she likes to hike, camp, run, and lift weights.

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The 11 Best Beach Bags for Travelers

Adele Chapin

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You’ve got all your swimsuits, flip-flops, and beach essentials packed in your suitcase for a summer getaway. Now you just need a bag to haul everything to the shore. Here are 11 of the best beach bags for travelers, including totes that would fit right in on the beaches of Bali or the boardwalk. You’ll also find practical options that are waterproof, fold flat, and feature tons of pockets for valuables.

1. Sea Star Beachwear Small Voyager Tote

The Sea Star Beachwear Small Voyager Tote is designed with water in mind: made of lightweight neoprene, it even floats if you drop it in the ocean. The roomy bag zips close and features interior pockets for cards and keys. Opt for a preppy navy or a floral print collab with Frances Valentine.

2. Ban.do Deluxe Reusable Canvas Tote

Whimsical Los Angeles brand Ban.do makes the most cheerful products, like this sunshine yellow canvas tote printed with the words “Make time for sunshine.” This Ban.do Deluxe Reusable Canvas Tote snaps down if you want to adjust the size of the tote, with yellow nylon straps to schlep flip flops and towels.

3. Boden Olivia Large Canvas Tote 

The shape of Boden’s Olivia Large Canvas Tote is so classic, with cotton handles that wrap around the entire bag for extra reinforcement. The beach bag comes in three patterns spanning flowers to pineapples, but we’re partial to the bold rainbow stripes.

10 Best Packable Women’s Sun Hats for Travel 2021

4. Hat Attack Anya Tote 

This neutral beach bag made entirely from raffia will match every swimsuit you throw into your suitcase. The Anya Tote by Hat Attack is lined in cotton and outfitted with leather handles so you can wear it as a shoulder bag.

5. The Beaded Crochet Tote Bag

With wooden beads, a nearly 12″ drop handle, and a spacious interior, The Beaded Crochet Tote bag can handle your beach gear and will compliment any summer outfit.

6. Mercado Global Blanca Tote

There’s a feel-good backstory behind this handcrafted colorful bag from Mercado Global, a brand that employs female artisan weavers in Guatemala. The Mercado Global Blanca Tote is made of canvas and roomy enough for all your beach essentials.

9 Lightweight Summer Sandals Perfect for Packing

7. L.L.Bean Boat and Tote

The L.L. Bean Boat and Tote canvas bag goes all the way back to 1944, and it still looks as fresh as ever. It’s still made in Maine as well. Customize the beach tote by choosing between four different sizes, two handle lengths, and five handle colors (then add your monogram, of course).

8. Scout La Bumba Large Tote Bag

D.C.-based company Scout makes cult-favorite bags that are stylish, lightweight, and easy to clean.The Scout La Bumba Large Tote Bag folds flat for easy packing, and you can zip up the top or use it as an open tote bag. There’s an inside zippered pocket for valuables too. 

9. Dejaroo Mesh Beach Bag 

Need to see exactly what’s in your bag? The Dejaroo Mesh Beach Bag is made of see-through mesh, which means it’s no big deal if the bag gets wet. There are a ton of pockets too, so you can corral all your stuff. The bag is sold in 11 different color combinations.

8 Essential Items to Pack in Your Beach Bag

10. Genovega Extra Large Waterproof Canvas Beach Bag

The Extra Large Waterproof Canvas Beach Bag from Genovega looks extra nautical thanks to stripes and oversize hemp rope handles. Other fun features include a drink holder and a built-in bottle opener and keychain. 

11. Upper Canada Reusable Organic Cotton Mesh Bag

Want to save on a beach bag and spend that vacation money on margaritas? This organic cotton bag from Old Navy is only $6. It’s not a big bag, but there’s room for sunscreen and sunglasses and a few more essentials — and the mesh shape is timeless and easily packable.

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16 Best Beach Bags for Women: Totes, Backpacks, Crossbody Styles

Beach , Best Suitcases , FASHION , Handbags , Travel Accessories

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Are you planning on traveling carry-on only for your next sunny beach or poolside vacation? You can grab one of the cute beach bags and totes for the season that are lightweight and packable!

Best Beach Bag and Beach Bag Tote Styles

Table of contents.

A warm-weather destination is a great place to travel carry-on only, but it helps if you choose the best travel beach bag or tote to go along with your swimwear.

Packable beach bags are perfect for stuffing in your carry-on and taking out later for your excursions. When choosing one, keep in mind the type of travel you’re doing. Sometimes it’s better to go for a backpack-style or a crossbody choice depending on your activities and the destination. 

And, as a bonus, you can use these to hold your daily essentials, for shopping, and to bring back extra souvenirs, too! 

With that in mind, check out these cute beach totes , crossbody styles, and backpack options to add to your travel capsule wardrobe , so you can save space, pack light, and still look fab seaside or poolside! 

Best Beach Tote Bags

Longchamp Le Pliage Large Tote | Also: Amazon

Top Readers’ Pick: Longchamp Le Pliage Nylon Beach Bag

Aim for versatile large beach tote bags that can double as a personal carry-on item, such as the Longchamp’s Le Pliage , which has a well-deserved spot in the “best” category. And it’s not without reason!

The Le Pliage is incredibly stylish but low maintenance and durable. It’s water-resistant and foldable with a snap tab if you want to store it before or after use. And it’s versatile enough to accompany you on your Mediterranean cruise and then have it at your side in Europe’s chic streets. 

With plenty of space to organize your belongings, it has plenty of colors to choose from and is durable on top of a dedicated smartphone pocket. We can see why this is rated best packable beach bag by readers!  

Is Longchamp the best travel handbags? Read this post for our review of these popular totes!

J. Crew Woven Straw Market Tote

J. Crew Woven Straw Beach Bag

If you want stylish beach bags , look no further than J.Crew, a veritable reader favorite! 

This reliable brand’s elegant woven straw handbags have a wide opening and roomy interior to fit anything from a beach towel and flip flops to finds at a local seaside market. 

A classic-looking accessory for a sunny vacation, this J crew beach bag comes in two shades, this cute basic pictured and a black stripe one that’s equally cute!

Banana Republic Paper Beach Straw Bag

Banana Republic Paper Black Straw Tote Beach Bag

This straw tote bag is the perfect summer accessory. It’s stylish, spacious, and it goes with everything. The vegan leather handle adds a touch of sophistication, while the paper straw body is casual and fun.

This bag is perfect for a day at the beach, a picnic in the park, or even just running errands.

Vera Bradley Recycled Lighten Up ReActive Bag

Vera Bradley Recycled Lighten Up ReActive Large Beach Bag

This printed large tote is described as lightweight and versatile by many reviewers. Made from recycled bottles, the fabric is water-repellent, and there’s a handy drawstring to keep things secure, but you can still peek in to grab something small. 

Super roomy with a mesh closure that catches sand, and all you need to do is shake it a bit, and there are enough pockets (one zip; one slip) to store things like lip balm, cash, or a room key. This pretty Vera Bradley beach bag comes in a ton of summer colors too!

The Sak Casual Classics Large Tote

The Sak Casual Classics Crocheted Beach Bag

Talk about adorable! This crochet crochet beach bag is made by hand and is vegan (PETA-Approved), but it’s also well designed so you can organize your things easily for a pool or beach day. There are multi-pockets on the front wall, a zippered back pocket, and a center pocket. 

This woven beach bag works for a day outdoors or as a regular purse and carry-on item. It comes in another cute color with pink and gray shades—choose either to take the summer by storm!

Tumi Voyageur Just In Case® Packable Nylon Tote

Tumi Voyageur Just In Case® Packable Nylon Zipper Beach Bags

If you want some chic and cool beach bags , look no further than Tumi Voyageur. This brand is TFG reader-approved and makes high-quality products to take anywhere!   

This nylon packable beach tote folds up into its own traveling pouch that can easily slip inside a carry-on compartment. It has a durable two-way zip-up and plenty of space to put sunglasses , sunscreen , hat , and beach towel . The stylish carrying handles and range of colors you can choose from make this a smart way to travel light!

Find out what our readers have to say about their Tumi Bags in our review !

ALOHA Collection Day Tripper Tote

ALOHA Collection Day Tripper Extra Large Beach Bag

Touted as one of the best zippered beach bags, ALOHA is a California-based brand that knows the rigors we beach-goers put our accessories through!

This big beach bag has a full zipper top that’s expandable for even more space while you’re traveling, shopping, or hitting the seaside on a sunny day. It has an interior pocket that can hold small essentials like your phone or sunglasses and an outside zipper pocket. Users say this is a great personal item to carry on the plane because of the organizational design, storage space, and sturdiness.

The biggest bonus? It’s designed with a technical fabric to repel splashes, spills, and a little rain shower. Be forewarned the bag is not waterproof, so it’s not a good idea to plunge into water with belongings inside as the zippers aren’t sealed. This comes in a variety of feminine, tropical-inspired prints!

Dejaroo Mesh Bag For Beach Toys /Essentials

Dejaroo Mesh Beach Bag

M esh beach bags like the ones by Dejaroo are great for a casual, fun day at the beach with kids in tow. This large tote has multiple pockets to put in anything from flip flops to sunscreen and towels.

This also dries quickly, and any sand or debris just falls through the mesh. There are long comfy straps so easy to carry, and when done using, just fold it up and pack it away. And if you want to bring toys, this is a perfect boy and girl beach bag to carry sand toys too!

Madewell The Open-Crochet Packable Straw Beach Tote Bag

Madewell Boho Straw Beach Bags

This summer straw handbags by Madewell gets a summertime makeover in airy natural straw. It’s lightweight, medium-sized, and one user reports how much this tote can fit!

User says, “This bag is perfect for summer: on the beach or out for dinner. I purchased this bag for a vacation because it is “packable”- easy to fold into luggage. The bag is roomy and has a pocket for smaller items. I wish it had a snap or other type of closure, but overall I’m happy with my purchase!”

LL Bean Beach Bag – Boat and Tote

L.L.Bean Beach Bags – Boat and Tote

The L.L.Bean beach bag is super popular for water activities in general! Whether you’re going boating or pulling up a chair dug into the sand, you can rely on this made in Maine staple. It’s durable and comes in several classic colors.

This beach tote with zipper is made of a sturdy cotton canvas, has handles that can hold up to 500 lb, and has a reinforced bottom to hold all your swimming gear. You can grab this in small, medium, large, and extra-large and choose short vs. long handles. And bonus, you can even personalize it with a monogram!

Tory Burch Ella Recycled Nylon Tote

Tory Burch Beach Bag – Ella Recycled Nylon Tote

The designer beach bag by Tory Burch has a high fashion look that’s still practical, with an easy magnetic closure and interior and wall pocket for storage. You can pair this zippered beach tote with an evening dress just as well as a swimsuit.

This bag is one of the best beach bags and totes because of its easy, packable design and an alluring classic silhouette. You won’t have to sacrifice style for space with this bag! (Learn to Pack Light Stylishly with this guide!)

It’s the best of both worlds for style-conscious travelers who need a refined, fashionable classic beach bag . With its glossy handles and accents, this bag is perfect for your next beachy Hawaiian getaway!

Best Across Body Beach Bag

KAVU Rope Sling Crossbody Bag

KAVU Rope Sling Crossbody Zip Beach Bag  

Perfect for adventurers who want something great for organization but roomy enough to pack a day’s worth of beach exploration, this boho beach bag with pockets is a hands-free crossbody style that has just that, tons of pockets! There are two main compartments to pack more oversized items like a water bottle or a change of clothes, with an inside zip pocket, while two front pockets hold smaller items like your phone or sunscreen. 

The buckles are well made, and so is the rope sling strap. Overall, it’s a sturdy, well-made summer accessory that’s uber cute! You can grab this in SO many different designs; you’ll indeed find one that suits your style!

Lily Queen Tote and Crossbody/Shoulder Bag

Lily Queen Canvas Beach Tote and Crossbody/Shoulder Style

These duck canvas beach tote bags are stylish and have plenty of room for a sun hat, flip flops, a towel, and sunscreen, and more!

They’re very sturdy, easy to wash, and super soft! The versatility is what’s super special about this classic summer beach bag, as you can wear it crossbody but also over the shoulder or carry it by the top handles. It’s available in several muted, soft colors that we love!

Bydenwely Rope Handle Tote Bag

Bydenwely Rope Handle Beach Bag

The best vacation bags should be versatile and usable in many scenarios, including beach or pool outings, all the way to sightseeing. Users think this classically striped beach bag fits that definition! 

You can choose the size you want, either small to medium, and the rope handles are adjustable and coated with leather for durability. The closure is fuss-free too! It’s magnetic, so no big struggle with zippers or snaps. There’s also an internal zippered pocket to store things away from plain sight, like cash or a phone.

Best Beach Bag Backpack

Speedo Unisex Deluxe Ventilator Mesh Equipment Bag

Speedo Deluxe Ventilator Mesh Equipment Bag

If you’re into watersports rather than being a beach lounger having this quick drying backpack from Speedo might fit with your activities. It has an open mesh weave, so it’s sturdy, and the shoulder straps are adjustable.

You can use it to store everything from fins to snorkeling gear, along with your beach basics. You can grab this in a bunch of fun prints (or colors) like the one pictured above!

WANDF Drawstring Backpack String Bag 

WANDF Water Resistant Backpack

If you want sturdy water-resistant beach bags, this nylon backpack is durable and has excellent organizational compartments too. With a front pocket, three interior pockets, and a hidden back pocket, you can store immediate essentials and anything you want to hide, such as a phone or wallet. 

The capacity is large, fitting all beach gear easily, and you can adjust the straps and use the drawstring closure to seal your belongings more. This comes in other colors and prints that will make beach time fun and carefree!

Fun Beach Bags and Totes Comparison Chart

The best beach bags and totes are packable, versatile styles. Take all your vacation essentials all in one roomy tote that won’t cramp your style.

[wpsm_comparison_table id=”92″ class=”center-table-align”]

Compass Rose Travel Packing Cubes

How to Organize Beach Bags and Travel Totes

The best beach totes and vacation bags can be used for your personal carry-on item and excursions. And one way to organize your items both on and off the plane is by using packing cubes . If you’re curious about how to use packing cubes, watch the video below.

Learn our hacks with packing cubes in the video above!

I put together a five-part YouTube series showing you the different methods to use packing cubes. If you use this specific packing strategy, they also can compress your belongings. This is the secret to traveling carry-on only!

A packable beach bag can be stowed on top of, alongside, or even between packing cubes in your carry-on luggage. Or you can use your bag as a carry-on item itself and use packing cubes to organize small essentials, on or off the plane. Check out this post to see how others have used them to keep organized!

What are your favorite beach bags and totes? Share in the comments!

To complete your summer beach look, please read:

• Best Swimsuits for Women: Stylish and Fun Summer Picks
• Versatile Beach Dresses
• Best Swimsuit Coverups
• Cute and Comfortable Beach Sandals

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12 comments.

Love the look of the dejaroo mesh bag – thanks!

Doing carryon so not able to fit my usual beach bag, need options, good choices to check out, thanks!

I love the info I got on TFG planning my last trip, so I knew right where to go to plan our Cancun vacation. Off to shop for a new beach bag and then coming back to find a coverup!

I tried to enter the contest last night unsuccessfully. so this is really a test. I love your advice. Found you last year on a trip to Greece for a wedding. (Sadly, my husbands last before he passed) I needed a packing list and there you were! I love your fresh style, practical with some whimsy. Always on trend. I’m happy for your success, congratulate you on making it happen. It’s inspiring to me as I feel I’m starting over (at 61). All the best to you and your family.

Soooooo, the beach bag has morphed into the ‘it’ bag. Like a statement only more relaxed and I’m loving the new styles. Beautiful!!! I went to Greece last summer and discovered this site. I am a subscriber and am happy. You have evolved as well. Congrats on the birth of your daughter and I’m looking forward to many new adventures. I lost my hubby last october. I discovered your site while looking up “what to pack for Greece”. All the best to you and your family.

My husband just surprised me with a trip to Turks & Caicos. First plane trip since 2019! I am planning on going carry on only and TFG has been a big help.

You might also like our hand-embroidered, ecofriendly totes. They roll down to the size of a coffee cup, and are one of my travel and everyday staples 🙂

They’re lovely!

I carry Envirosax – these nylon bags rolls and fold into almost nothing, but work great as beach bags, shopping bags, laundry bags, extra luggage bags……….and they come in all sorts of colors and patterns. I have three that are about 5 yrs old – easy to wash and dry, and they tuck into my backpack until needed. Love them!

Great addition!

Love Maison Scotch’s Mint Tote–it has a great soft print I adore! Baggu’s Nylon Tote is also great to have on hand, because you never know when you’ll need an emergency extra. A few companies bags I’ve been eyeing are Mar Y Sol. They have great straw beach totes! Mercado Global is another great option and has woven bags with great patterns.

I use the Longchamp’s Le Pliage Large for both the beach and also somethings we I travel. It’s my favorite tote bag.

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The Best Beach Bags for Summer 2024

Shop our favorite beach bags (ideal for the pool, too!) just in time for your upcoming vacation.

Related To:

Our top beach bag picks.

• Best Waterproof: Steele Canvas Basket Corp Waterproof Beach Bag
• Best Large: SCOUT Extra-Large Beach Bag
• Best Zip: ESVAN Oversize Water-Resistant Beach Bag
• Best Personalized: Mark & Graham Oversized Ribbon Straw Beach Bag
• Best Rubber: BYMEE Neoprene Large Beach Bag
• Best Cooler: Business & Pleasure Canvas Cooler Bag
• Best Budget Cooler : Picnic Time Insulated Cooler Bag
• Best Multipurpose: Wrapables AllyBag Reusable Shopping Bag
• Best Bucket: Rip Curl Premium Surf Bucket Bag
• Best Seashell: Personalized Mesh Seashell Bag

Toting around wet towels , sandy sunscreen bottles , portable speakers , melamine tumblers and a packed lunch for your entire family is much easier to do when you have a beach bag equipped for the job. Not all beach bags are created equal and it's crucial to invest in a bag that takes the chore out of lugging your miscellaneous items to and from the shore. Pull out your notebook and prepare to take notes, because we share the best beach bags for every need.

What to Look for in a Beach Bag

SIZE: Before you dive into your shopping journey, consider how large your beach bag needs to be to accommodate your beach day needs. Are you packing the essentials for yourself, your partner or your kids? The more people to account for, the larger your beach bag should be. That said, the best beach bags are the ones that provide the necessary storage space while also feeling comfortable on your shoulder or arm as you trudge across the sand. Sometimes a bag that’s too big will work against you and make getting from point A to point B more of a chore than it needs to be. MATERIAL: A wet, damaged bag is the last thing you want to deal with at the end of your beach day. Invest in a bag built to withstand the sun, wind, water and beach heat by sticking to top-performing materials. Rattan, neoprene, nylon, mesh and PVC-lined beach bags will protect your belongings from the elements and hold up for many summers to come. COMFORT: Sun-kissed shoulders and a loaded beach bag with unpadded handles are a surefire way to end your otherwise blissful afternoon on a sour note. Look for a beach bag with cushioned shoulder handles that take the pressure off, or an extra cross-body handle to distribute weight across your body. ORGANIZATION: Many beach bags are free from compartments to provide ample space for rolled-up towels, water bottles and more. Now with that said, if throwing all your beach day goodies into the abyss and needing to rummage through your belongings every 15 minutes stresses you out, here's our top tip: look for a beach bag with integrated interior pockets or exterior compartments. Bonus points if the built-in pockets (and the bag itself) feature a top zipper to keep your phone and E-reader sand free between uses.

Best Waterproof Beach Bag: Steele Canvas Basket Corp Waterproof Beach Bag

From towels and sunscreen to snacks, books and hats, this waterproof wonder can hold it all. The durable nylon design wipes clean inside and out and earns top marks for enduring comfortability. Creamy white shoulder stripes pop against the punchy tote, yielding a nostalgic design fitting for seaside summers.

Best Large Beach Bag: SCOUT Extra-Large Beach Bag

Parents, this striped stunner is the beach bag you never knew you needed and won't be able to live without. The extra-large tote measures 24 inches wide, 19 inches high and 12 inches deep to provide ample stow-and-go space for your family's beach day essentials . It's made from durable, wipeable all-weather fabric that maintains its structured design no matter how many wet towels you throw its way. Oh, and it's collapsible and folds away for space-saving, stress-free storage between trips.

Best Zip Beach Bag: ESVAN Oversize Water-Resistant Beach Bag

This playful carryall comes fully loaded with everything you need for baby beach days. Noteworthy features include an expansive front tech pocket, a zippered closure, three zippered interior pockets, two bottle side pouches and a water-resistant lining. Load this beauty with diapers, bottles, snacks and more, then continue to carry it when you come home from vacation.

Best Personalized Beach Bag: Mark.& Graham Oversized Ribbon Straw Beach Bag

This personalized take on the timeless bag design is an investment that you will relish using for summers to come. Each tote is handwoven from natural straw to create a classic, basket-style silhouette and topped with oversized striped ribbon handles in six eye-catching colorways to provide a comfortable grip. An embroidered monogram in your choice of 17 unique thread colors rounds out the design with a custom touch.

Best Rubber Beach Bag: BYMEE Neoprene Multipurpose Beach Bag

Neoprene bags are popular for pool days and beach trips alike — and for good reason. The popular material is ultra-durable, washable and water, oil and UV-resistant. This sporty design features a charcoal perforated neoprene body and an aqua, mint and green stripe motif. Each bag comes with a magnetic closure that opens to the interior and a detachable matching pouch that can be used for storage or worn solo as a clutch.

Best Cooler Beach Bag: Business & Pleasure Vintage-Inspired Striped Canvas Cooler Tote Bag

The days of struggling with a bulky cooler in the sand are behind us. This chic satchel cooler tote marries retro flair with modern functionality. The roomy tote bag boasts a timeless striped canvas exterior with two zip pockets: one to tote your tech essentials and one with a handy hidden bottle opener. A recycled PVC lining insulates the bag's interior, keeping your packed lunch and summery sips cool.

Best Budget Cooler Bag: Picnic Time Insulated Cooler Tote Bag

Looking for a (cute) cooler bag that won't break the bank? This contemporary design will not disappoint. The insulated tote comes with an exterior side pocket and boasts a generous interior that can hold up to 24 cans at one time. Choose between navy, black or a fresh sandy-white finish to best suit your summer style.

Best Multipurpose Beach Bag: Wrapables AllyBag Reusable Shopping Bag

Spend less on your beach bag than you do on your Chipotle order and look good doing it. This beachy nylon tote earns the honor of our best multipurpose and budget pick because it's featherlight, water-resistant, machine-washable and long-wearing. Plus, it comes in 21 punchy hues and patterns to reflect your style on the cheap.

Best Bucket Bag: Rip Curl Surf Bucket Bag

Never miss an opportunity to try out the latest fashion trends? Scoop up this dreamy bucket bag ASAP. The structured bucket bag is the unofficial "it" bag of the vacation season, and this textural, woven crochet design checks out. It features a gauze interior lining, a casual drawstring closure and a dimensional cream netting for a splash of nautical appeal. Take your bucket bag from the beach to the bar by tying a summery scarf to the handle.

Best Seashell Bag: Personalized Mesh Seashell Bag

Keep your little one busy and collect meaningful memories with the help of this sweet seashell collection bag. The adorable mesh shoulder bag comes embroidered with your kiddo's name and features adjustable straps for comfortable wear. Choose between eight lively hues and nine thread colors to match their collection bag to their favorite swimsuit or beach towel.

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• Backpacks, Totes + Small Bags

The 15 Best Travel Tote Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Totes from Away, MZ Wallace, and Quince came highly recommended by T+L editors and travel experts.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Other Totes We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

While many travelers opt for a backpack as a trusted travel companion, we think tote bags offer similar (if not better) features for certain travelers. Tote bags are convenient for quickly accessing items like a phone or wallet since your belongings are kept closer to the body. 

It’s important to invest in a tote bag (or any piece of luggage for that matter) that fits your needs as a traveler. There are tons of different bag styles out there, so we pulled recommendations and notes from seasoned travelers and Travel + Leisure editors to crowdsource the best tote bag options from travel experts. Plenty of packable, convertible, weekender, and leather tote bags came highly recommended, and we highlighted why each bag earned praise so you can make the most informed decision whether you’re a frequent flier, road tripper, or office commuter.

Best Overall

Mz wallace deluxe tote.

The large storage capacity and efficient organization make it an excellent personal item for flying.

The laptop pocket isn’t padded.

This quilted MZ Wallace tote bag earned major points for having a spacious capacity without feeling bulky or weighted down when it’s packed full. An ideal bag for air travel, it can fit carry-on essentials while still being able to fit underneath an airplane seat, and the zippered top keeps everything safe and sound. There are tons of pockets for storing items, including a 13-inch laptop pocket (unpadded) and five other smaller pockets for lip balm, phone chargers, and wallets. Although we found this tote bag to be exceptionally lightweight, it boasts a trolley sleeve to secure the bag to a suitcase to give your shoulder a rest when needed. It also comes with a detachable shoulder strap to carry the bag as a crossbody when desired. 

This bag came highly recommended after thorough testing and the only slight inconvenience we ran into is that the tote is unstructured so if there isn’t a laptop in it, the items sag at the bottom. However, the variety of pockets help to distribute the weight, so we still think this bag is the ultimate travel companion for storing the essentials. 

The Details: 11.6 x 9.4 x 12.7 inches | Nylon, leather | Trolley sleeve | 13-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Overall, Runner-up

Quince revive nylon large tote.

It conveniently folds up for packing and is impressively lightweight.

There isn’t a top zipper. 

The Quince Revive Nylon tote bag was praised by our experts for its lightweight material and portable design for traveling. The bag is made with durable nylon, it never feels cumbersome to carry, and the fabric design makes it easy to fold up the bag to place it in a carry-on or backpack without taking up much space. With designated pockets for a laptop, water bottle, and smaller items, we love that there is a spot for both everyday and travel essentials for supreme versatility. If the tote gets dirty while traveling, you can spot-clean the nylon fabric with soap and water, and it comes in Oxford blue, olive, and black color options that easily hide wear and tear over the years. Because the tote bag doesn’t have a top zipper, it scored slightly lower than our top pick, but we still think the flexible fabric and slim design of the tote helps keep it close to your body while walking through a crowded airport or down busy streets.

The Details: 17 x 13 x 7 inches | Recycled nylon | Water resistant | 15-inch laptop pocket

Best Open-top Canvas

L.l.bean boat and tote bag.

It can accommodate bulky items thanks to the wide-mouth opening.

It doesn’t have any organizational features, so you’ll want to use packing cubes or pouches.

Beach days, picnics, and road trips are the best uses for this spacious canvas tote from L.L. Bean. Made from heavyweight cotton canvas, the tote was originally designed to carry ice from a car to an ice chest back in 1944, and it still boasts the brand’s impressive 500-pound weight capacity (though we hope your travel essentials will never weigh that much). While we’d normally be wary of a travel bag without any pockets, the bag has a generous capacity, which makes it ideal for blankets, lunch boxes, shoes, or any other bulkier item needed for a day or road trip. And when it comes to durability, you can’t beat a tote bag constructed with enough reinforcement to carry over a dozen cinder blocks.

The Details: 13  x 12 x 6 inches | Cotton canvas

Best Machine-washable

Baggu duck bag.

The cotton is machine-washable, and it comes with a crossbody strap.

The top has a magnetic button closure.

Traveling can be hard on luggage, so we love that you can toss the Baggu Duck Bag in a washing machine to prolong the life of the tote. It came highly recommended after one of our team members spilled an entire burrito inside, and all it took was one rinse cycle to get it looking good as new. The canvas material is made with 65 percent recycled cotton from pre-consumer waste like old socks or T-shirts. In addition to the tote handles, the bag also comes with an adjustable crossbody strap to carry the bag over the shoulder. It has enough room to carry a laptop up to 15 inches long, and there is a small zippered pocket on the inside for a wallet or earbuds. One thing to note is that the top has a magnetic button closure instead of a zipper. 

The Details: 15.75 x 11 x 4.75 inches | Recycled cotton canvas

Best Open-top Leather

Milaner woven handbag.

It’s big enough to be an overnight bag if needed. 

There isn’t a laptop pocket.

This woven Milaner leather tote bag is the ultimate tote bag for flying, commuting, or an overnight trip . The larger size can accommodate bulky items like clothing, shoes, or a laptop, and there are two small zippered pockets for wallets and phone chargers. Thanks to the structured design of the woven Nappa, suede, or Vachetta leather, this bag is super easy to pack with travel essentials without feeling cumbersome to carry. It doesn’t have a top zipper, but it does feature a slim shape so the bag is kept close to the body. We also recommend using the dust bag it comes with when placing the bag under an airplane seat to keep the contents from spilling out or getting the bag dirty from the airplane carpet.

The Details: 20 x 14 x 3 inches | Nappa leather

Best Sustainable

Béis east to west tote.

It’s made with 100 percent recycled material. 

It only comes in two colors, and the white could get dirty quickly.

We’re big supporters of eco-friendly luggage that is still just as durable as this tote bag from T+L-loved brand, Béis. Made with 100 percent recycled polyester and recycled faux leather trim, the bag comes in simple black and white shades. There is a padded laptop pocket for laptops up to 15 inches long, two water bottle pockets, two slip pockets, and one zippered pocket so there’s a spot for everyday and travel essentials. Other helpful features for travelers include a trolley sleeve for carrying it on a suitcase, a key leash so you won’t have to dig around to unlock the door (plus you can attach an AirTag holder to it), and a zippered pocket in front. We can’t forget to mention the two lengths of tote handles and a detachable crossbody strap. 

The Details: 17.13 x 14.17 x 9.06 inches | Recycled polyester, vegan leather | 15-inch padded laptop pocket | Luggage sleeve

Best Lightweight

Longchamp tote bag.

It folds into a fraction of the original size for superior packability.

The leather straps aren’t padded.

This lightweight tote bag is ideal for both maximalist and minimalist packers since it folds into itself and can easily be stored in a larger bag without taking up valuable space. Despite the featherlight design, the bag is made with a hardy recycled polyamide canvas that can withstand the test of time. Besides the excellent portability, we love that the tote bag has a zippered top  with a large leather flap that closes over the zipper to give peace of mind that items are safely tucked away while traveling. There’s only one small zippered pocket inside the bag, which could be a slight drawback for some, but we think the packable design is well worth the lack of pockets. The bag comes in seven colors ranging from neutrals hues to bolder tones, and the leather straps, though unpadded, give the bag a chic look to complement any outfit. 

The Details: 12.2 x 11.8 x 7.5 inches | Recycled polyamide canvas, leather | Packable

Best Convertible

Caraa studio tote.

It has a convenient modular design to carry the bag as a tote or backpack.

The exterior shoe pocket can only accommodate smaller shoes.

Can’t decide between a tote or backpack? This Caraa Studio tote bag has a two-in-one design to carry it as either, offering the best of both worlds. With detachable shoulder straps, the leather tote bag can be converted to a backpack in seconds or carried over one shoulder if you’re in crowded areas like a subway or sidewalk and want to keep the bag close. Best of all, there is tons of built in storage to stay naturally organized while traveling. Our favorite features include the 17-inch laptop pocket and shoe compartment on the side of the bag to separate footwear from the rest of the main compartment. Although the pocket can only hold smaller shoes, it can be a game-changer for certain travelers. And there are eight other pockets built into the interior anti-microbial lining to store phone chargers, wallets, passports, and more when you’re en route to a destination.

The Details: 18 x 13 x 7.5 inches | Italian leather | 17-inch laptop pocket

Most Durable

Carhartt legacy east/west tote.

This bag is made to last with a sturdy design and hardy fabrics.

The ends of the zippers don’t connect to the fabric, so small items could escape.

Camping, ski trips, beach days, and other outdoor activities can sometimes speed up the wear and tear on a tote, but that’s not the case with Carhartt’s Legacy East West Tote. We’re confident this bag is built to last due to the heavy duty 600 denier polyester and DWR coating to keep the elements from seeping into the tote. After four years of our constant use while traveling and commuting, the tote earned high praise for not showing any signs of letting up on quality anytime soon. With a zipper top and several slip pockets on the interior and exterior, there are spots to store a phone, keys, and wallets safely in the bag. There are gaps on each end of the bag because the ends of the zipper aren’t sewn to the fabric, so watch out for smaller items in the bag since they could fall out. 

The Details: 16.5 x 13.5 x 7.25 inches | Polyester | Water resistant

Best for the Beach

Carve designs treasure tote bag.

It's the perfect size to fit everything you need for a beach day (including small towel.)

We wish it had some small pockets for storing accessories.

Whether you’re en route to the beach on foot or airplane, this tote bag is specifically designed for tropical vacations. While this tote is essentially one large pocket (without smaller areas to store accessories or essentials), it's the perfect size to take with you to the beach and to lunch afterward without lugging too much around. It's stylish enough that light packers may even use this as their main vacation purse and, paired with the matching treasure clutch , everything you need will be kept organized and ready to go. We love the white cloud texture of the outer materials paired with the stylish brown straps that are both comfortable and durable.

The Details: 14.5 x 15 inches | Cotton

Best for the Office

Bandolier tote bag.

It has various pockets for a laptop, sunglasses, and a water bottle.

The tote straps could be more comfortable. 

A day in the office is like a mini trip, so it’s important to be organized and have plenty of space for items when you’re away from home. The Bandolier tote bag offers a spot to pack office essentials like a laptop, a water bottle, a phone charger, snacks, a wallet, and more. The laptop pocket can fit technology up to 15 inches wide, and there is a leather sunglasses sleeve to protect fragile eyewear en route to the office. There are several other zippered and slip pockets to organize smaller items or a water bottle, and the D-ring loop on the tote handle is designed to hold other Bandolier accessories like a keychain or earbud pouch. The entire bag is made with a sleek pebbled leather, including the leather tote straps, which could be more comfortable with padding. It also comes in black, brown, and gray colorways. 

The Details: 18 x 12 x 6 inches | Leather | 15-inch laptop pocket | Sunglasses pocket

Best With Shoe Compartment

Minkars weekender bag.

The bag comes with a separate shoe compartment, toiletry case, USB port, laptop pocket, and plenty of other thoughtful features for travelers.

It can get heavy when packed full.

A dupe of the iconic Béis weekender bag, this wallet-friendly version has similar features for a fraction of the price. While it’s jam-packed with helpful features for travelers, it received the highest praise for the separate compartment at the bottom of the bag that can store shoes, toiletry cases, hair tools, or any other item you want to keep separate from the main compartment. The structured bag has a wide-mouth opening and is super easy to pack thanks to the 15.6-inch laptop pocket, included toiletry case, and various other pockets for staying organized. Plus, the weekender comes with convertible straps to carry it as a tote or crossbody bag as needed, and it comes in pink, black, or cream color options.

The Details: 17 x 16.5 x 8 inches | 15.6-inch laptop pocket | Shoe compartment | Toiletry bag includes | Trolley sleeve

Best Multi-use

Dakine verge weekender tote.

It’s useful for the outdoors or traveling.

It might get heavy when it’s packed full.

This spacious tote bag from Dakine is equipped for everything from camping and beach days to trips to the office and air travel. When it comes to traveling, the bag features a padded laptop sleeve for devices up to 16 inches; a handy trolley sleeve; and a separate zippered compartment in the bottom of the bag to organize items like shoes, toiletry cases, or clothing as desired. Made with durable recycled nylon and polyester, the tote looks rugged and works well as a weekender bag for camping or for packing beach day essentials like towels and snacks. Travelers can carry the bag as a tote with the top handles or it also comes with a detachable crossbody strap.

The Details: 23.5 x 16 x 11 inches | Recycled nylon | 16-inch padded laptop pocket | Trolley sleeve

Best Organization

Troubadour carrier tote.

It has tons of pockets to stay naturally organized while traveling.

The bag might be too large to fit underneath an airplane seat. 

Minimalist and practical, Troubadour’s Carrier Tote is our favorite bag for packing efficiently and staying organized on the go. The designated laptop pocket is padded and can fit devices up to 17 inches in width — the largest pocket size for laptops of all the bags recommended. In addition to the protective laptop pocket, the tote features a quick-access phone pocket; a medium-size zippered pocket for an e-reader; and several other slip pockets for items that can easily get lost at the bottom of a bag like charging cords, lip balm, and keys. The only possible downside to this sleek bag is that the 24-liter capacity and stiffer fabric makes it difficult to fit it underneath an airplane seat. 

The Details: 18 x 12 x 7.5 inches | Recycled polyester, vegan leather | 17-inch laptop pocket

Best Foldable

Away the packable carryall.

It’s a very spacious tote that comes with a stuff sack to pack it away in a backpack or suitcase.

It has a flimsy shape, so small or heavy items fall to the bottom of the bag easily.

Away’s The Packable Carryall is the perfect packable tote bag to toss in a purse whether running errands or sightseeing in a city. The tote bag is incredibly spacious when it’s folded open, but it compresses down to a mere fraction of its usual size thanks to the lightweight recycled nylon material and stuff sack. Sometimes packable bags can lack travel-friendly features, so we love that the bag features a zippered top for security; a trolley sleeve for portability; and an interior zippered pocket for storing phones, wallets, and keys while on the go. To keep track of the stuff sack, there’s also a loop to secure the zippered pouch on the inside of the tote. The unstructured design of the tote means that small or heavy items with a pool at the bottom of the bag, but beach towels , jackets, or any bulkier items will fit perfectly and provide some structure to the bag. 

The Details: 19.7 x 15 x 9 inches | Recycled nylon | Water resistant | Trolley sleeve

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Other Travel Tote Bags We Liked

The tote bags below still came highly recommended for travelers, but didn’t quite make our list of winners. 

Portland Leather Tote Bag : It’s a very portable tote bag due to the smaller size, but it isn’t the most practical for long trips with less storage and organizational features.

Bellroy Tokyo Tote : This bag has tons of pockets and storage for just about anything you would need while traveling, but it’s on the smaller side, so it could fill up quickly. 

Ogio Rise Tote : The bag can be converted from a tote to a backpack, which can be helpful for travelers, but the drawstring opening is a slight drawback for security reasons.

To create this list of the best travel totes, T+L editors and trusted travel experts recommended their favorite bags they have tested on their own travel adventures. With over 30 totes tested, we whittled down our list of the best bags for any and all travelers based on capacity, portability, ease of use, and overall value. From sleek leather totes to convertible weekender bags, we handpicked various bags that we can’t recommend enough for outdoor activities, air travel, or commuting to the office. 

Tips for Buying a Travel Tote

Buy for your intended activity.

Not all tote bags are best for certain types of travel, so it’s important to invest in a bag that meets your needs. Traveling somewhere wet and rainy? You’ll want to opt for a more rugged tote bag that features waterproof or resistant materials like nylon or polyester for protecting items. Leather tote bags work well for air travel or office days, but you’ll likely want to skip bringing it to the beach or for camping where a canvas tote will hold up much better to wear and tear.

Consider organization and size requirements

When it comes to traveling by air, you’ll want to look at dimensions, organization, and other helpful features like trolley sleeves, USB ports, and convertible straps. For outdoor activities like camping and beach days, a spacious and flexible tote bag can be helpful for packing bulky items. We recommend packable or foldable tote bags for travelers looking for a backup bag to keep in a purse or suitcase, rather than using it as a bag to commute or fly with since they can lack structure and organizational features.

Prioritize comfort

Tote bags can be hard on the shoulders and hands when carried for long periods of time (i.e., navigating an airport or while out and about), so we recommend looking for lightweight materials and padded straps to reduce the possible strain. Some tote bags come with convertible straps to carry the tote as a crossbody or backpack, so be sure to look for bags with modular designs or trolley sleeves to place the bag on a suitcase if you’re looking for better portability and versatility in a tote. 

Frequently Asked Questions

While it depends on the size of a tote bag, more often than not, it will count as a personal item or possibly a carry-on bag if it’s large enough. A personal item usually has to fit underneath an airplane seat and if it doesn’t, it could qualify as a carry-on bag, so you’ll want to double-check the size restrictions of personal items for your specific airline since it varies greatly depending on the carrier. 

Tote bags offer the ability to quickly and conveniently access items like a phone and wallet since the bag is kept closer to the front of your body compared to a backpack. Backpacks distribute the weight of your belongings better, but a comfortable tote bag should never be too cumbersome to carry. Look for features like padded handles or a convertible crossbody strap for comfort. Tote bags are also easier to take on and off while traveling, which is convenient when you’re on the go and maneuvering tight places such as airplanes, trains, and cars. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L commerce writer, Anna Popp , writes nearly all of the team’s Travel + Leisure Tested articles and participates in product testing from luggage and shoes to outdoor gear and apparel. Anna combed through recommendations from over 30 tote bag survey submissions from travel experts and used her knowledge as an expert product tester to put together this list of the best travel tote bags. 

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The Best Cooler Bags, According To Our Testing

Keep your six-pack cold for hours with these lightweight and portable cooler bags.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• More to Consider
• Our Testing Process

The Bottom Line

• Tips for Choosing

Why Trust Southern Living

Southern Living/Tara Massouleh McCay

If you don’t want to invest in a hard-sided cooler, or maybe you need something more compact for on-the-go use, a cooler bag is a great choice. They come in numerous styles and designs and allow you to carry them like a tote, shoulder bag, or like a backpack. 

Cooler bags give you more space while road tripping , but also allow you to still remain mobile while camping, hiking, and spending time on the water. “Soft coolers tend to weigh less, have more flexibility, and are easier for individuals to manage on their own,” says Hannah Mara , head of food and beverage for YETI. 

To compile this list, we took factors like ice retention, size, capacity, weight, and carrying style into consideration, testing all of the options on this list over several weeks. We tested the coolers at the beach, camping, tailgating, etc. by filling them with half contents (food, drinks, etc.) and half ice, noting if they leaked, were easy to clean, and what the water/ice ration was at the end of each use. 

We realize that some consumers want a larger cooler bag than can carry as many cans as possible, while others need a simple design that will keep a six-pack cold for hours, so you’ll find a variety of cooler bags on our list.

Best Overall

Rtic insulated soft cooler bag.

Ice retention rivals more expensive options

Durable outer shell and tear-resistant liner

Smooth, leakproof zipper

Floats in water

Zipper can be hard to pull

Lightweight, durable, affordable, and leakproof, RTIC’s Soft Pack Cooler has it all. It comes in 12-, 20-, 30-, and 40-can sizes, so you’re sure to find a size to accommodate your needs. It’s made with a heavy-duty nylon outer shell that works well on sand, the trail, or any terrain you may encounter. And 2 inches of closed-cell foam on the inside combined with a puncture and tear-resistant liner keeps drinks and food cold for up to 24 hours, all with no leaks. 

When we filled both this cooler and one from a more expensive brand with ice and left them in a covered area for four hours, the ice in both coolers remained mostly solid, and there was no discernible difference between the two (except the price).

A bonus feature we love? The cooler floats, so your drinks and food can join you in the lake or pool. Plus, the leakproof zipper keeps liquids sealed inside, although it can require some effort to unzip (although it was still smoother than that of other coolers we've tested). 

The wide opening also makes the cooler easy to pack and unpack. It also comes with a removable carrying strap and a zippered pocket on the front. Use it for road trips , camping, beach days, lunches, and more. Numerous colors and patterns are available. 

Style: Tote/shoulder strap | Capacity: 12, 20, 30, or 40 cans | Dimensions: Varies | Weight: Varies | Ice Retention: 24 hours

Southern Living / Eric Brockob

Best Budget

Coleman chiller soft-sided portable cooler.

Holds up to 30 cans

Includes several pockets for storing ice packs and other essentials

Removable plastic insert for easy cleaning

Ice retention is less than most cooler bags on our list

Only comes in two colors

If you don’t plan on using your cooler bag every weekend, this choice from Coleman is great for the price. It can keep your drinks cold for 12 hours or more and will hold 30 standard cans. 

We liked the removable plastic liner that helps to protect the contents of the cooler and makes cleanup a breeze in the event of a spill. The elastic bands along the top of the cooler are great for securing paper plates and other items you don't want to jam into a cooler bag.

There’s a main zippered compartment that opens up wide and zippered front and inside mesh pockets for storing ice packs and other essentials. The welded seams also ensure the cooler is completely leakproof. We did notice some loose threads along the seams, but the seams themselves still felt secure.

If you prefer a smaller bag for lunches or short trips, the Chiller also comes in a 9-can size and a 16-can size . Carry it by the side handles or use the adjustable strap, which allows you to transport the cooler more comfortably when it’s full. As of right now, it’s only available in blue and black, so we would like to see more colors available in the future. 

Style: Shoulder bag | Capacity: 30 cans | Dimensions: 13 x 13.2 x 11 inches | Weight: 2.2 pounds | Ice Retention: 12 hours

Best Backpack

Hydroflask day escape soft backpack cooler.

Includes backpack straps for comfortable carrying

Stands unsupported on its own

Tough polyester shell that's lightweight and waterproof

The top opening is a bit narrow

For a hands-free way to haul drinks and snacks from your car to a beach or a picnic, a backpack cooler is a great choice. We love HydroFlask’s 20-liter backpack cooler for numerous reasons. We tested the cooler on a Fourth of July picnic and left it overnight to test prolonged ice retention, finding that it worked great, with ice still in the bag the next day. 

First, it keeps things cold for 36 hours—longer than most other cooler bags on this list. It will also hold 36 cans without ice, and the padded mesh back and straps add comfort when carrying. The backpack’s exterior is a tough polyester shell that’s lightweight but also waterproof, and the watertight zipper keeps water out and helps prevent leaks.

Loops on the sides of the backpacks allow you to attach gear and accessories to the cooler to free up your hands, and the sternum strap and carry handles help you out in case you’re trekking the cooler a long distance. 

The backpack will stand unsupported on its own, which helps when you’re trying to load it down with drinks and snacks. Two colors are available, and the entire backpack is made from BPA-free materials. 

Style: Backpack | Capacity: 36 cans | Dimensions: 18.1 x 18.5 x 8.5 inches | Weight: 2.6 pounds | Ice Retention: 36 hours

Southern Living / Katherine Polcari

RTIC Outdoors Everyday Insulated Tote Bag

Strong shoulder strap

Durable bottom

Easy to pack

Heavy when full

Not leakproof

If you’re looking for something a bit smaller that could be used for keeping groceries cold or to hold drinks for the beach or a picnic, the RTIC Everyday Insulated Tote Bag is great to have on hand. It’s fully collapsible, meaning it’s easy to store it in the back of your car for grocery runs or beach days. 

We tested the tote on day trips to the lake and on grocery store runs without ice to test the cooling, and we found that it kept our items cold, was easy to pack, had a sturdy shoulder strap, and a durable bottom. 

The fully insulated interior is made with closed cell foam and welded seams to keep contents cold while on the go. A zippered interior pocket stores your essentials and makes it easy to find them, and the waterproof base is essential to protect from wet surfaces and help keep the tote upright. 

It is worth nothing that this cooler tote is best used with ice packs rather than ice, as the bag may leak liquid if loose ice is used. Plus, loose ice would leak out of the zipper, as it’s made from fabric and not waterproof. 

Its lightweight, collapsible design makes it an everyday essential for beach days, picnics, and keeping groceries fresh on the way home.

Style: Tote | Capacity: 35 liters | Dimensions: 21.25 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches | Weight: Not listed | Ice Retention: Intended for use with ice packs

Southern Living / Jenna Sims

Best Collapsible

Rei co-op pack-away 24 soft cooler.

Folds down flat when not in use

Adjustable shoulder strap

Wide opening for easy filling

Condensation can accumulate on the liner of the bag

Handles lack padding

Trying to save space in your car or while traveling? We love this collapsible choice from REI, as it folds down flat when you don’t need it. When you’re ready to add your beverages, just use the side clips to expand it to hold up to 24 cans with ice. 

We tested the cooler bag on short trips, transporting Tupperware and drinks, and found that it was easy to pack in the open-top mode, and held ice nicely for up to 3.5 hours. It has a sturdy and comfortable strap and doesn't leak. 

The top zipper opens wide for easy filling, and the seam-sealed liner is leakproof and easy to clean. The exterior shell is made from polyester that stands up to the outdoors, and an abrasion-resistant, recycled nylon material helps prevent wear and tear, too.

Carry it by the attached straps or the padded, adjustable shoulder strap to free up your hands. An added outer pocket includes a key ring to store your car keys, and daisy chains allow you to attach accessories and gear. REI uses recycled materials for this cooler bag for a touch of sustainability. 

Style: Shoulder bag/tote | Capacity: 24 cans | Dimensions: 15 x 11 x 10 inches | Weight: 1.8 pounds | Ice Retention: 32 hours

Southern Living / Massouleh McCay

Best for Groceries

Nook theory insulated grocery bag.

Can keep over 30 pounds of groceries cool for six hours

Foldable when not in use

Two side pockets for organization

No key loops or interior pockets

Non-padded straps

Designed for use as a grocery store bag, Nook Theory’s insulated bag can hold over 30 pounds of groceries and will keep cool for around six hours in case you need to run some errands after grocery shopping. We tested the bag for everyday tasks, fitting a variety of items inside, and it maintained cool temperatures during short trips. 

The bag has a sturdy base to help you organize its contents, and it’s foldable so you can store it easily when not in use. Grab a few of them to store in the car to make grocery shopping a breeze (and feel better knowing you’re not using single-use plastic bags). 

The exterior is made of a scratch-resistant canvas material that comes in lots of colors, and the interior is made with thermal foam that is leakproof and designed to keep things cold for hours. 

There are two side pockets as well, which also help with organization and a bit of added space. The front and back handles are long enough to use the bag as a tote, or throw it over your shoulder as a shoulder bag. 

Style: Tote | Capacity: 40 cans | Dimensions: 13 x 16 x 9 inches | Weight: 12 ounces | Ice Retention: 6 hours

Southern Living / Chloe Gebacz

Best for Picnics

Corkcicle beverage bucket bag.

Exterior side pockets give extra storage

Easy to fill

Easy to carry

Drawstring top doesn’t seal tightly

Can get heavy

Store a bottle of wine plus extra cans alongside charcuterie items and other picnic essentials with the Beverage Bucket Bag from Corkcicle. It has a drawstring top that you can fold down to reveal the ice bucket, which has insulation that will keep you things cold all day. Fill it with ice and then cans, to-go containers, etc. 

There are four wrap around pockets on the exterior as well, which work well for storing picnic and beach extras like sunscreen, sunglasses, bottles of wine, flip flops, and more. We tested the bag on afternoon outings and found that it was easy to fill and kept items cold for four hours. 

There also weren’t any leaks, and the side pockets were super handy. The adjustable shoulder strap makes it easy to throw over your body and go, and the food-safe interior liner means you’re good to go when packing it with food. 

Style: Shoulder bag | Capacity : 12 cans or 6 cans and 1 wine bottle | Dimensions: 10.5 x 12 x 12 inches | Weight: Not listed | Ice Retention: Not listed

Southern Living / Melanie Fincher

Best for Wine

Tirrinia 4-bottle wine carrier.

Tall enough to accommodate four standard wine bottles

Comes with dividers to keep the bottles from breaking

Elastic strap inside the lid holds a wine bottle opener

No external pockets

Not the longest ice retention

Lots of cooler bags aren’t tall enough for bottles of wine , but this one is made specifically to cart your wine to parties, the lake, a picnic, and more. It will hold four standard wine bottles, and comes with a divider to keep the bottles separated and prevent them from bumping into each other and possibly breaking. You can also take the divider out and use the bag to store other items if you wish. 

The interior is made with thermal foam, which not only protects your wine bottles, but insulates the cooler to keep wine chilled (for about three hours in our experience). It’s also leakproof, so you don’t have to worry about any leakage while on the go. 

Carry it by the top handle, or attach the shoulder strap and carry it over your shoulder. An elastic strap inside the lid holds a wine bottle opener for when it’s time to get the party started. 

Style: Shoulder bag | Capacity : 4 wine bottles or 15 cans | Dimensions: 13.5 x 8 x 7 inches | Weight: 1.3 pound | Ice Retention: Hours (not specified)

More to Consider 

Igloo MaxCold Evergreen Gripper : This cooler bag was tested during everyday outings for ice retention and compartment use, and we liked its separate compartments, sturdy handles, and packing ease, however, it did leak from its zippers when tilted and there was less room in it will the full-can capacity compared to others on this list. 

Ozark Trail 24-Can Soft Cooler Tote : This was also tested for beach trips and left in a car or kitchen to test prolonged cooling, and we found that it kept items cool for extended periods with no leaks, but the ice melts fast. The capacity for 24 cans is also questionable.

Southern Living / Jeanna Clayton

Our Testing Process 

In the hot summer month of July, we took cooler bags to the beach, tailgating, camping, etc. and using the cooler for at least two hours. 

Each cooler was filled with 50% contents (food, beverages, etc.) and 50% ice. After each use with ice, we drained the coolers and cleaned them as needed, taking note of the ice to water ratio at the end of each use. 

Coolers were used at least twice during the testing period. In total, 394 cans were used in the cooler bags. We are still in the process of long-term testing many of the bags on this list and will update this piece with how well the cooler bags hold up over time.

We love the RTIC Soft Pack Cooler because it’s affordable, leakproof, durable, and comes in multiple sizes to suit different needs. The ice retention rivaled much more expensive coolers in our testing, and the wraparound zipper keeps the cold inside. For a budget-friendly option, Coleman Chiller Soft-Sided Portable Cooler is very spacious and comes with multiple pockets for storing extras. Plus, it can retain ice for 12 hours, which should be more than enough for a picnic or beach day, and we loved the removable inner bin that makes cleanup a breeze.

Tips for Choosing the Right Cooler Bag

Size and capacity.

Whether you only need something small that will hold a few bottles of wine or a six pack, or something that will hold 30-plus cans for a crowd, you’ll want to consider what your cooler bag can handle when purchasing. The last thing you want is to be lugging around a huge cooler bag that you won’t even fill all the way up, or vice versa: having a cooler bag that’s too small for all the drinks and snacks you need. 

Besides size, it’s also important to consider the amount of items that you’ll be transporting. Whether you’re spending all day at a friend’s tailgate or watching your child’s sports tournament, cooler bags that have side pockets will come in handy. Not only do they provide you with more storage space but they give you easy access to items such as car keys, first aid items, and much more.

Destination

Consider where you’re going to be using the cooler bag, as weather can play a huge role in ice retention. If you’re going to the lake or beach on a hot day , you’ll want a cooler bag with great ice retention that’ll keep your drinks cold all day long. You’ll also want to consider the bag’s exterior as well to make sure it can hold up to sand, water, dirt, and mud you might encounter.

Carrying Options

Cooler bags often come with either a top handle, a shoulder strap, backpack straps, or a combination. If you’ll be carrying your cooler bag with other equipment, like beach equipment or camping chairs , consider a backpack cooler bag or even one that comes with a shoulder strap. If you aren’t going too far, or are using a small cooler bag, you might be able to get away with a tote-style bag that you can carry by hand.

Questions and Answers

How long do cooler bags keep snacks and drinks cool.

While it varies depending on the bag, in general, cooler bags keep their temperature for about 12 hours. That being said, they are perfect to use for sporting events, outdoor parties, camping, hiking, and any event that requires you to be outside for the better part of a day. 

There are other factors that affect the temperature of your cooler bag, such as size, insulation, outdoor temperature, and more. Note that larger cooler bags remain cooler longer than smaller ones. Also, pre-chilling your cooler bag will also help to keep your items cool for a long time (this is especially helpful for environments where the temperature is 100°F or more).

How do you care for a cooler bag?

Always check to see if there are specific cleaning and care instructions that come with your cooler bag, and abide by those. If there are no instructions, simply wiping out the interior with a cleaning wipe or paper towels and an antibacterial cleaning spray will work. Depending on the materials used on the exterior of your cooler, you can possibly clean the outside with soap and water and then rinse them off and let them air dry.

What should not be stored in a cooler bag?

Be careful when storing glass bottles in a cooler bag that doesn’t have padded dividers specifically for glass bottles. The glass can clink together and break in the bag without padded dividers. (Fortunately, our favorite cooler bag for wine, the Tirrinia 4-Bottle Wine Carrier , does come with dividers to prevent this.) 

It’s also recommended to clean out the cooler bag when you’re done using it, as leaving liquids and food inside the bag will make it grow mold quickly. We also don’t recommend storing anything super smelly, like tuna and fish, inside your cooler bag, as the insulation can lock in that smell and it can be hard to get rid of.

Amanda Ogle is a freelance writer and editor with seven years of experience covering food and drink, travel, and general lifestyle topics. To come up with this list, we tested the cooler bags at the beach, camping, tailgating, etc. by filling them with half contents (food, drinks, etc.) and half ice, noting if they leaked, were easy to clean, and what the water/ice ration was at the end of each use. For expert insight, Amanda consulted with Hannah Mara , head of food and beverage for YETI. 

Related Articles

The Best Massachusetts Beach Towns You May Not Know

These sandy shores will make you want to pack your bags ASAP!

The coastline of Massachusetts is blessed with seemingly endless miles of beaches along the Atlantic Ocean. Cape Cod includes even more stunning bay beaches as options to visit, all just a short drive from Boston. It’s no wonder Massachusetts is a top beach destination in the country for tourists, artists, and wildlife alike. Outside of Provincetown, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket lie many lesser-known beach towns that bring the same historical New England charm. From sand that sings, to the most painted building in America, to a popular destination for Snow Owls, we’ve compiled a list of the top 9 lesser known beach towns in Massachusetts.

Forty miles north of Boston sits charming Rockport, MA, a scenic beach town with a vibrant artist community. The town is home to the famed fishing shack known as “Motif No. 1,” which is the most frequently painted building in the United States.

Wellfleet is a small coastal town located on Cape Cod that features both bayside and ocean beaches. Along with the gorgeous beaches, it also offers crystal clear freshwater kettle ponds and famous oysters known for a particularly briny flavor.

Located 18 miles from Boston, Marblehead is a seaside town with narrow streets lined with shops and restaurants and a coastline peppered with church steeples. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour of Marblehead’s historic downtown and, of course, enjoy its many parks and beaches.

Catch a spectacular sunset from one of Eastham’s many bayside, ocean, or freshwater beaches. Located on the Outer Cape of Cape Cod, Eastham is a hotspot for hiking, biking, or swimming, as well as just relaxing and enjoying its rich historic sites.

Founded in 1644, Hull is a small peninsula town on the Boston Harbor. A trip to Hull wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Nantasket Beach or the Hull Lifesaving Museum, which pays homage to the town’s maritime heritage through exhibits on famous Boston shipwrecks, boat designs and various lifesaving traditions used throughout history.

Newburyport

Newburyport’s Plumb Island Beach offers tourists the opportunity to enjoy spectacular water sports as well as plenty of bird watching. Newburyport has a thriving arts and cultural scene with an annual ArtWalk, Documentary Film Festival, and Oktoberfest, among countless other community events.

Founded in 1673, Duxbury Beach is regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in Massachusetts, winning the American Shore & Beach Preservation Association’s National Best Restored Beach award in 2022. Duxbury Beach is also a favorite visiting spot of the elegant and beautiful Snowy Owl which can spotted there during the winter months.

With four ocean beaches and three freshwater beaches, Sandwich offers many spectacular ways to enjoy your beach trip. The oldest town on Cape Cod, Sandwich is best taken in on foot to appreciate the historical village. Keep an eye out for the white oval plaques on buildings that serve as historical markers to highlight buildings over 100 years old.

Manchester by the Sea

Located in the picturesque town of Manchester By the Sea on Cape Ann, Singing Beach is one of the few beaches in North America that contains “singing sand,” a particular type of sand that, when dry, makes a unique singing or whistling sound when walked upon.

Nina Derwin is a Brooklyn-based writer with a passion for the art of storytelling. In addition to writing articles for various clients and publications, Nina has written several episodes of scripted television for networks including Starz and Fox.  

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