A tote bag might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about carry-on luggage, but it can be one of the most useful options for a flight. Unlike a hard-sided roller suitcase, a soft tote can squeeze into tighter spaces, stretch a little when you add one or two more items, and keep everything you need within easy reach. Here’s how packing a tote bag can make your next trip a little easier — and why choosing the right tote makes a big difference.

Why Totes Are the Ultimate Travel Companion

One of the biggest advantages of a tote is that it isn’t restricted by rigid casing, which allows you to fit a surprising amount of stuff and still have it count as a personal item for airline purposes (meaning you can also bring a larger roller bag and avoid checked bag fees). The sides give a little, allowing you to make use of the space between and around your other belongings. 

A sweater for the plane that won’t quite fit in a purse or backpack? Toss it in a tote instead. The same goes for items you want to keep close at hand during a flight — for example, headphones, a book, snacks, your water bottle, a toiletry bag, or your smaller purse that you can easily toss inside (allowing you to stick to just one personal item).

Though traditional tote bags often don’t have zippers or other closures, many tote bags — particularly ones designed for travel — do. The zippered opening of these types of totes makes it easy to see what’s inside, while interior pockets help keep smaller essentials organized. A tote with a smaller, secure zippered compartment is also useful for items you don’t want getting lost at the bottom of the bag.

What To Consider

If you’re planning to use your tote as your personal item, size matters. Each airline has its own dimensions for personal items (a small bag, backpack, purse, or tote that must fit entirely underneath the seat in front of you), so check the rules for the airline you’re flying before deciding on a tote bag. A tote that fits comfortably under one airline’s seat may not meet another carrier’s requirements. If you’re hoping to use the tote as your one full-sized carry-on instead, you have more room to play with since you can store it in the overhead compartment.

When shopping for the perfect tote, also consider the bag material and design. As a reminder, a soft-sided bag is generally easier to work with than a structured one when it comes to a personal item. It can be adjusted slightly depending on what’s packed inside and comfortably pushed underneath the seat in front of you to still allow enough room for your feet. A flat or reasonably structured bottom is helpful, too, since it helps hold the bag’s shape.

Lastly, pay attention to the tote’s handles and straps. Flimsy straps won’t be your friend after a few hours in the airport. And handles that aren’t reinforced or are too thin can start to unravel or tear under the weight of a packed-to-the-brim tote.

Recommended Travel Totes

We love the Travelpro Essentials SparePack Foldable Tote because it’s lightweight and folds down compactly when not in use. It’s roomy enough for everything from airport essentials to souvenirs to items you might pack for a day trip once you arrive at your main destination. It also features a handy luggage handle sleeve that slides over the handle of a rolling suitcase, making it easier to navigate the airport.

Another option is the Longchamp Le Pliage Original, a longtime travel favorite. The nylon construction keeps it lightweight, and like the Travelpro bag, it folds up easily when you don’t need it. That makes it particularly handy as a second bag that you can use on your return flight if you pick up a few too many clothes or souvenirs during your trip.

If organization is your priority, also consider the Baggallini Avenue Tote. It has multiple pockets and compartments, so you’re less likely to end up fishing around for your boarding pass at the bottom of a giant bag.

Benefits After the Flight

Remember: A good travel tote doesn’t have to spend the rest of the trip sitting in your hotel room. Once you’re at your destination, it can become your beach bag, sightseeing bag, shopping bag, or day trip bag. All told, whether you’re trying to avoid checking a suitcase or simply want an easy place to keep your in-flight essentials, a tote bag can make travel a little simpler.

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