one zipper travel bag

I Tested Cuyana’s Popular Carry-All Tote—Here’s How It Held Up on Two Back-to-Back Trips

By Lydia Mansel

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Of all the  packing tips out there, I tend to rely on one basic tenet when it comes to streamlining the entire process: quality over quantity. On average, I’m headed to the airport three to four times a month, so I try to find clothes and travel accessories that cut down my decision-making time. Whether it’s a singular  pair of jeans I can wear with everything or a piece of  carry-on luggage that works for most trips, I’ve found investing in these high-quality, versatile items makes my life as a travel writer infinitely easier—and keeps my city-sized apartment from getting too crowded.

I applied the same principle when I searched for a leather carryall tote last year. I wanted a bag that would replace all of the mediocre options I had collected over the last decade and serve as an alternative to my  favorite travel backpack . This led me to  Cuyana and the brand’s now-sunset  Classic Zipper Tote . When the lightweight, roomy bag arrived in the mail, I knew it was the one: It fit my 16-inch laptop, phone and computer chargers, a book, my  Bose headphones , and a small toiletry bag . The small interior zipper pocket kept my wallet secure but accessible, and the top zip ensured all of the contents stayed sealed inside. After carrying my new tote on its first flight, I promptly donated the rest of my larger personal item bags.

But then, in March 2023, Cuyana released three updates to its fan-favorite Easy Tote Collection. According to the brand, the Easy Zipper tote (which comes in  Classic ,  Tall , and  Small sizes) was designed with “beauty, quality, and functionality in mind,” and was born out of customer requests for a zippered version of the Cuyana Easy Tote . Since I loved my initial bag so much—and it’s no longer available to buy—I wanted to test this newer style and see how it stacked up to its predecessor. Of the three different sizes, I went with Classic, the version that seemed most similar to my previous purchase.

Weight: 1.6 pounds  Dimensions: 5.1" D x 21.6" W x 12.3" H Handle drop : 10 inches

Each of the sizes have similar features—a sunken zipper, D-rings to attach adjustable straps, and compatibility with the brand’s  System Flap Bag for additional organization—and they all come in five core colors (black, caramel, cappuccino, stone, and dark olive) and two seasonal colors (sage and biscuit).

Although it was advertised as an “airy, unstructured tote that carries it all,” I was honestly a bit hesitant about the sheer amount of volume this bag could hold. My other bag fits all of my in-flight essentials as well as a small satchel (the trick for getting around the “one carry-on and one personal item” rule); I wasn’t sure if this tote could do the same. Fortunately, that worry ended up being unfounded. As far as dimensions, the new bag is about an inch shorter than the older version, but its additional three inches in width more than make up for it. Not to mention, the top handles are also an inch longer.

The bag’s first official test was a 48-hour trip from Philadelphia to Dallas . As it was a quick visit with minimal luggage , I didn’t need to pack much more than the basics : My laptop, chargers, and sunglasses had plenty of room. The Classic Easy Zipper tote passed with flying colors. I even preferred the sage colorway to the dark olive leather of my other carryall.

Test two came in the form of a longer, multi-destination journey just a few days later. I tacked a flight home to Virginia onto a second trip to Texas . Stretching the bag to its limits, I added a second laptop (for personal projects) as well as my toiletry bag. These additions significantly added to the weight, but Cuyana—a brand beloved by celebrities like Meghan Markle and Jessica Alba—didn’t disappoint. It held up beautifully.

The official verdict? When it comes down to an everyday bag that’s perfect for a frequent flier and an overpacker, the Classic Easy Zipper tote has my heart. Now I just need to decide which of the two styles I’ll keep.

More Cuyana bags we love for travel:

If you’re looking for something slightly more compact, the Small Easy Zipper tote is a great option. Its measurements clock in at 10.6 inches tall and 19 inches wide, ideal for someone who travels with a tablet or a more compact laptop.

The Tall Easy Zipper tote is a commuter-friendly bag; while it can still fit a 15- to 16-inch laptop, its sleek figure ensures it won’t bump into other passengers on a crowded train.

When all you need is your phone, a credit card, and a room key, a small purse comes in handy. This slim, minimalistic bag is petite, but surprisingly roomy—it has room for a slim wallet and a few lip products, too.

The perfect crossbody bag does exist. This wear-everywhere bag features an adjustable strap, magnetic flap closure, and a convenient slip pocket on the outside for your phone or keys.

This smart tote is fully customizable thanks to its built-in snap system for add-on accessories, like a laptop sleeve or cosmetic pouch. The System tote is another great option for city commutes.

The Double Moon Saddle bag is great for walking around a city center or heading to lunch. It pairs well with just about everything and isn't heavy, making it an ideal bag to pack in your carry-on.

Every traveler needs a beloved duffel bag for overnight stays or weekend getaways. This option features a luggage sleeve that makes zipping through the airport a breeze.

As far as Dopp kits go, this leather set is one of our favorites. The set comes with a small and large size that are equally great for organizing toiletries, makeup, or tech essentials.

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The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

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.

When you open up your favorite carry-on travel backpack, it should feel like you’re opening the door to a well-organized closet or sitting down at a clean desk, with everything in the right place and easy to reach.

This is your moment to center yourself, no matter how chaotic the journey.

What we considered

A 45-liter bag maximizes overhead space but can get heavy when fully packed; 35-liter bags tend to be more manageable.

A bag with a clamshell design opens like a book and is the easiest to pack, but a bag that opens traditionally tends to have more structure.

Ideally, a travel backpack has handles on all sides—especially the bottom—so you can pull it out of overhead bins or from under seats.

Some internal pockets are useful, but major organizing is better managed with packing cubes.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L offer the best combination of features, quality, and durability. Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization. Though these backpacks are great as companion bags for any trip, they’re designed to ultimately replace all of your other luggage and become your exclusive bag as you travel.

This style of packing is not for everyone, but once some people try it, they’re forever hooked. Finding the right bag is a personal choice, though, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we also have picks that are great for people who travel for work , others that are designed to be carried over long distances , and a bag that’s basically luggage on your back .

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, best small carry-on bag for most situations: cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack, best large bag for most situations: peak design travel backpack 45l, best mobile office: patagonia black hole mlc 45l, best bag for long journeys on foot: osprey farpoint 40 and fairview 40, best bag if you need a large suitcase on your back: tortuga travel backpack pro 40l, other good carry-on travel backpacks, how we picked and tested, the competition.

I’ve been covering aspects of luggage and travel bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade, and I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. I personally try to do most of my travel with a single backpack, whenever possible. I spent nine months roaming around Hawaii with not much more than that, and I spent another six months nomadically couch-surfing in New York City.

I reached out to writers who specialize in traveling the world carrying everything they need in a single bag: Eytan Levy, the owner and operator of the Snarky Nomad travel website; James Feess, founder of The Savvy Backpacker ; and Sharon Gourlay, of the Where’s Sharon? travel website. I also spoke with moderators of Reddit’s r/onebag and r/heronebag forums, as well as with Chase Reeves, bag fanatic, reviewer, and owner of Matterful .

We researched and tested bags designed for those who want to travel light and stay flexible while flying, without the burden of checking luggage. For some people, the challenge of cutting down a packing list is intimidating. But if you can get past that initial hurdle, traveling with a single bag is a revelation. With fewer items, you have more time to concentrate on and appreciate the journey.

• When you’re not loaded down by heavy luggage, it’s easy to remain more mobile. And it’s easier to adjust your plans mid-trip. If you’re willing to do laundry on the road, then one bag is all you need to travel indefinitely. At its heart, one-bag travel allows you to discover more—not just about the places you’re going but also about yourself and what you really need day to day.
• Size and weight still matter. If you desire more creature comforts or more gear, or if you plan to be away for a long time across multiple climates, you’ll want a bigger travel backpack . These larger bags tend not to be carry-on-friendly, however, especially in Europe, so be prepared to check them.
• No single backpack is perfect for everyone. Before you make any purchase, consider some basic points. How much can you carry? And where do you usually visit: the city or outback? Travel gear should feel like a welcome companion—there to support you when you need it but unobtrusive when you don’t.

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

This durable bag’s clamshell design makes it easy to organize your stuff. And due to its strap design, this bag can be worn on your back or carried in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is an easy-to-organize, comfortable-to-carry bag for getaways lasting just a few days or a whole week.

It’s one bag that can do it all. This is a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. There are handles on all four sides of this bag, so it’s easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it. It’s also protected by a full lifetime warranty, and it has the build quality to back that up. After more than four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item ) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage I use.

It comes in various sizes, but we think the middle-of-the-road version is the best. Cotopaxi also makes the Allpa in 28-liter and 42-liter sizes. But for us, the 35-liter bag is the best option. At 42 liters, this bag becomes heavy for most people to carry when it is fully packed, and we’d prefer that it had a more-robust hip belt. At 28 liters, the bag becomes a touch small for most people, and its internal organization feels fussy for shorter trips, such as an overnight. Cotopaxi also makes a hip pack , which is designed to fit snugly into the Allpa bag’s front top compartment. It’s a neat little addition to the bag, and it is worth getting if you like wearing fanny packs while you travel.

It’s organized, easy to pack, and easy to carry. The Allpa bag has a clamshell design, so it opens like a hard-sided suitcase—a large YKK zipper runs around three sides of the bag, allowing it to fall open into two halves when unzipped. On the right side is a deep compartment, spacious enough for two large packing cubes or half a suitcase’s worth of clothing (which you access through a mesh zippered flap). On the left, there’s space for one more medium-size packing cube behind a zippered flap. Above that there are two smaller pockets with high-visibility backing—useful when you’re looking for hard-to-differentiate personal items.

It’s secure but still accessible. The Allpa pack has two side-access zippers—great for on-the-go access, especially when the bag is hanging from your shoulder. One of these reveals a flat computer pocket with a padded false bottom; so if you drop the bag, it won’t land on the corner of your computer. The other reveals a “secret” pocket with a hidden zipper and access to the main compartment. All of the main compartment zippers are protected by security loops, which you thread the zipper through at the end of its run. This prevents anyone from subtly or quickly grabbing a zipper and opening your bag when you aren’t paying attention.

It’s comfortable to carry. The Allpa bag’s hip belt—which can be removed while the bag is on your back—is substantial enough that it’s comfortable to wear when you need it. With or without the hip belt, the Allpa bag is comfortable to carry over long distances. However, folks who have longer torsos (over 19 inches) may find that the waist belt sits a little high off the hips, unless you fully extend the shoulder straps. Speaking of shoulder straps, unlike the ones on our other picks, the Allpa bag’s straps are contoured to fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The Allpa pack is made with 1680-denier ballistic nylon, similar to the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . (Denier is a measure of a fabric’s fiber thickness.) It feels similar to a strong canvas, but it has a more prominent weave. This is the type of bag that’s as easy to toss into an overhead compartment as it is into the back of a rusty pickup truck. And it also includes a rainfly, which is unique in this category.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Though this pack is well organized for packing, it’s less ideal as a mobile office. The Allpa pack has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth. This is where a good personal item comes in handy. However, if you want to travel with just this one bag, there are a few nooks you can hide things in. The front organizer is deep enough that you can also fit several small organizing pouches, if you want, or the aforementioned fanny pack.
• We prefer the model without the TPU front. Cotopaxi does enjoy playing around with fabrics and colors. Sometimes the company has released the Allpa pack without the TPU-lined front panel. The TPU panel improves water resistance, but after many years of traveling with our bag, we’ve found that the TPU layering can begin to flake in spots.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight: 3 pounds 5 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: adventurous Colors: assorted

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind. Yet most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility, clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a good choice for those carrying more expensive gear—especially camera gear. It’s also great for those who prefer a large, backpack-based packing system.

One bag provides many configurations. Some bags in this category are built to do one thing extremely well—be carried on your back. But the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is built to adapt. It’s the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. That’s not the case with the Peak Design: This bag looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack.

It’s expandable, with clever folds and zippers. You can access the bag through a back panel (which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch) as well as a front one (if you unzip the pass-through divider). You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps, which run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters. If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. In this configuration, it will still feel larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for being able to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400-denier nylon and polyester fabrics. It feels tough but not as tough as some other bags we’ve tested, such as the Cotopaxi Allpa.

It has fold-away straps, for easier storage. The Peak Design lets you tuck its shoulder and hip straps away when you’re not using them. But unlike any other bag we’ve ever tested, this pack has magnetic flaps on the back panel that open and close with an almost magical snap. Once you’ve played with them, you’ll wonder why every backpack doesn’t have something similar. A small, childish part of me still gets excited about tucking away the straps when I put the Peak Design into an overhead bin. Although the straps are thin, they’re still comfortable. The hip belt isn’t quite as plush as the one on the Tortuga pack; still, even when the Peak Design is fully loaded, the belt doesn’t pinch or dig into the body.

It’s great for carrying expensive gear. If you travel with a camera, you don’t have to use Peak Design’s camera cubes , but they do make carrying that gear a whole lot easier. The cubes come in five sizes. And if they’re situated properly in the bag with the provided clips, they line up with the Travel Backpack’s side-access flaps for quick access. Caleigh Waldman (a photographer for this piece and, full disclosure, my spouse) took this bag across the country for a wedding shoot. “I want this backpack,” she said after three weeks of travel. “I want to travel with it everywhere. With my cameras. Without my cameras. It doesn’t matter. I want to travel with it.”

• It’s expensive—especially if you commit to the entire system of packing and camera cubes.
• More complexity means more things that can break. The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses. Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty , which should alleviate most people’s concerns. But if you’re particularly hard on your gear and still need to carry as much as possible, you might consider the Tortuga bag instead.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: back-panel loader Style: minimalist and unobtrusive Color: black, sage

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

This bag’s split interior makes organizing easy. Those who travel for work will appreciate this bag’s dedicated panels for organizing tech, books, papers, and assorted miscellaneous items.

If you travel often for business and prefer a bag that’s much easier to work out of than most of our other picks, you may like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L . This bag has a front panel and assorted pockets that make it feel like a small traveling office.

It’s built like luggage but organized like your office. Of all the bags we recommend, the MLC (short for Maximum Legal Carry) comes closest to being a suitcase on your back, due to its large size, simple interior, and minimal external features. The MLC is also one of the simplest bags we tested, divided into two leaves (imagine a book with only one page), with a main compartment for packing and a second compartment for document organization and tech storage. The MLC has a built-in laptop compartment that fits 17-inch laptops and is situated close to your back; this protects the computer and keeps its weight closer to your body.

Despite its size, it’s comfortable enough to carry. Most carry-on backpacks of this size, without frames, become somewhat unwieldy when fully packed. Thankfully, the Black Hole MLC bag, like the Cotopaxi Allpa, is a welcome exception to this rule. The MLC has two shoulder straps, a hip belt, and an optional shoulder strap, for easy carrying. When they're not in use, or when you’re checking your bag, all of the straps can be stowed away easily. When fully loaded, the bag was pleasant to carry—not as comfortable as the Peak Design or the Osprey, but decent enough. I wouldn’t want to carry it all day across a city, but I wouldn’t mind carrying it through an airport to a car and to a hotel.

It’s built from high-quality materials, with durability in mind. This pack is made from recycled polyester, and the fabric is woven in a cross-weave that’s very similar to what Patagonia uses in its long-lasting Black Hole series of duffle bags . This is a material I’ve come across a bunch with Patagonia gear, and I’ve tested it thoroughly; it’s very tough. The front of the bag is coated in a weather-resistant TPU, for extra protection from the elements. The bag has large YKK zippers (the industry leader) and smaller YKK zippers throughout. Unlike the Cotopaxi Allpa pack, the Black Hole MLC bag has no security loops.

It comes with one of the best repair programs and a lifetime warranty. Similar to our other picks, the MLC is backed by an excellent lifetime warranty , and we’ve always found that Patagonia’s repair program goes above and beyond other comparable companies.

• We wish the Maximum Legal Carry (despite the name) came in a few more sizes. The 45-liter capacity may be intimidating for some people, and there is no alternative.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 3 pounds 10 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell Style: retro Colors: tan, black, olive, green

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

A great starter option for one-bag travel, this bag is easy to pack, adaptable to most situations, and sturdy enough to take with you as you travel the world.

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

A scaled-down version of the Farpoint, this bag has shoulder straps that are slightly lower, to keep the bag’s bulk more aligned with smaller torsos.

May be out of stock

Updated in 2023, the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 packs are both built around a hiking backpack frame that’s easy to carry over long distances.

It’s built for travel but designed for hiking. The Farpoint 40 bag is well made, easy to pack, and comfortable to carry over most mid-length distances—such as walking across a city for an afternoon. (For simplicity’s sake, everything we say here about the Farpoint bag also applies to the Fairview bag.) Osprey makes excellent backpacks for hauling around, and its lifetime warranty is renowned within the industry . The Farpoint pack also has an optional messenger bag–style strap, which offers some flexibility when you’re maneuvering tight spaces like subways or crowded city centers.

It’s simple to pack, but not as spacious as it seems. Opening the bag reveals a clamshell design; it’s deep enough to accommodate most large items, yet you won’t have to fumble awkwardly with zippers once it’s time to close up the bag. The feeling you get is not unlike when you’re packing a bit of sturdy luggage, and that’s something we love about bags like this one—especially when you use packing cubes . Osprey says this bag, when fully packed, can carry 40 liters. But after using the Farpoint bag for a few years, we’ve decided that its rounded shape seems to cut into that theoretical packable space more than other bags do. In practice, the Farpoint pack’s available space is closer to—but still less than—that of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L .

It’s the easiest bag to carry among our picks. Like all Osprey bags, the Farpoint 40 has very comfortable shoulder straps. The years of design and consideration Osprey has put into its hiking backpacks are quite evident in the Farpoint 40. After more than seven years of long-term testing this bag, we’re still surprised by how great it feels to wear when fully packed. Crucially, the straps of the Farpoint 40 stow away neatly behind a zippered panel. However, when you’re using the shoulder straps, the design forces you to also use the hip straps. Though this isn’t a huge issue, if you prefer a sleeker look or would rather have the option of using shoulder straps without hip straps, the Cotopaxi Allpa pack is more flexible, and it lets you hide the waist straps while the bag is on your back.

The Fairview 40 has the same features, in a scaled-down size. The Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 packs basically have the same design, but the Fairview pack is made for someone with a more-diminutive torso. It’s also slightly lighter. However, it has the features and durability of the Farpoint bag. It also has the same hip belt and adjustability. On both, the chest-strap clip is also equipped with a small security whistle that’s surprisingly loud. It’s a handy feature for anyone traveling in unfamiliar environments.

• For a smaller carry-on travel backpack, this one has little to not like. However, we do wish Osprey would trade some of the sleeker contours for a little more interior space.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight (Farpoint): 3 pounds 3 ounces Weight (Fairview): 3 pounds 2 ounces Main compartment access: front-panel loader Style: active Colors (Farpoint): green (Gopher), gray (Tunnel Vision), blue (Muted Space), black Colors (Fairview): blue (Winter Night), red (Zircon), blue (Night Jungle), black

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

For dedicated single-bag travelers, this water-resistant, durable bag is easy to pack and to travel with. And it’s comfortable to wear over endless miles—as long as you don’t mind the heavier weight.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L maximizes packing space in a bag that’s durable, water-resistant, and customizable to fit most torso lengths (there’s also a 30L version ), with plenty of organizational features to suit any digital nomad.

It’s like a suitcase, with backpack straps. The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is built to occupy the maximum carry-on space available. It’s a nearly perfect blend of backpack and luggage. On the outside, its tear-resistant sailcloth and sealed zippers provide ample protection from sharp objects and the elements. Opening the main clamshell zipper reveals a cavernous interior and a few organizational features that make the bag a cinch to pack. The front panel is a particular standout, great for keeping track of electronics and chargers. Of all the bags we tested, the Tortuga strikes the closest balance between the carrying comfort of a hiking backpack and the space and organization of a piece of luggage.

It’s as easy to pack as luggage. When it comes to packing, the Tortuga pack has a soothingly minimal interior, as any good suitcase should. In addition to the bag’s cavernous main pocket, its interior lid has a large vented panel. The panel is too narrow to hold additional packing cubes, but it’s great for holding light jackets or doubling as a dirty-laundry bag (if you’re really committed to one-bag travel). The Tortuga is available as a 40-liter pack (the maximum space for a carry-on bag), which we tested; there is also a 30-liter version, which is compliant with some intra-European flights. The more-diminutive version is a decent choice for weekend travel or for minimalist travelers—but for those uses, we prefer the space-saving profile and extra internal organization of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L bag.

It’s very customizable. The Tortuga pack is the most adjustable model we tested, thanks to its adjustable torso length, shoulder straps, and waist-belt system. The adjustable strap system lets you manipulate the location of the shoulder straps (video) to fit a wider variety of body sizes, in both the 30- and 40-liter versions. Of the packs we’ve tested, this one (with its included load-adjuster straps at the top, to prevent the bag’s weight from sagging toward your lumbar region) is the best at distributing its weight (4½ pounds when empty—roughly 1½ pounds more than most of our other picks, except the Peak Design ). The hip straps are removable if you need, but the shoulder straps are not stowable.

• Its straps don’t stow away. Some people, especially those who are hard on their gear, may consider not being able to remove or stow the shoulder straps (as they can with our other picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa ) a disqualifying factor. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we haven’t had an issue. However, if these mysteries beneath the airport also make you nervous, you might prefer our picks with easy-to-stow straps, such as the Peak Design.
• It's heavy. We’ve fielded complaints from some testers who said that older models of this bag were too heavy for them to carry, even with the padded hip belt and adjustable straps. The additional padding does add weight. At 4½ pounds, this latest Tortuga bag is more than half a pound lighter than it used to be (the difference is noticeable), and it weighs the same as the equally large Peak Design pack. We are currently testing a new, lighter, and less-expensive version of this pack—aptly named the Travel Backpack Lite 40L —and will report back soon.  In the meantime, if you think you would struggle carrying the Tortuga, we strenuously encourage you to consider one of our more-manageable picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

Capacity: 40 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: minimal, with a rigid construction Color: black

If you want to travel like a backpacker but also fit in at a board meeting (and you have the budget for it): Consider the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . This bag’s reputation for durability, adaptability, and a low-key aesthetic make it a favorite among many dedicated one-bag travelers. And after testing it, we think it’s a great bag too. That said, for the bag to really stand out against other backpacks—and to take full advantage of its carrying adaptability—you need to buy the internal frame , the hip belt , and (if you’re traveling with a suit or jacket) the shoulder strap . On a bag that already costs $330, all of this adds up. Everything about the Tom Bihn bag (the fabric, the zippers, the quality of construction) feels like an upgrade from other bags, but it’s simply too pricey, and its design is too rarified and specific for most people. The biggest flaw, from our perspective—apart from the price—is that the Tom Bihn bag lacks a dedicated laptop pocket. In its place, the company sells laptop sleeves (a fine version if you don’t have one) that clip into the bag’s central compartment. Not everyone needs a dedicated laptop pocket, but we prefer the more secure feeling of bags that do.

If you want a budget pick (but only when it’s on sale): The eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack (our former budget pick) is still your best budget option, if you can catch it on sale for at least half off the list price. It’s not comfortable enough for trekking long distances on foot, but there are plenty of external pockets for organization, a laptop sleeve (which holds the weight of your computer high up on your shoulders), and an easy-to-access main compartment. This pack also has the largest capacity of any bags we tested, expanding to 65 liters—well beyond any airline’s regulated 45-liter limit. However, the bag’s casual-to-basic looks might not be to everyone’s taste. In 2024, eBags raised the price of the Mother Lode to $200. We have seen it on sale for $100, and in our opinion it’s worth getting only at the sale price.

We’ve narrowed our specifications for a great bag to the following list of features, ordered from most relevant to least:

• Front- or back-panel loader or clamshell opening, for the main compartment: As with any good piece of luggage, with this type of bag, you should be able to open it and see everything you’ve packed. When you have a bag with a panel-loading or clamshell design—rather than a traditional, top-opening design—you can pack and unpack it just as you would a suitcase.

• Backpack strap comfort and design: You never know when you’ll be walking farther with your bag than you’d intended. The more comfortable and well designed the straps are, the easier traveling will be. “Ideally, you want a bag’s shoulder straps to adjust to the angle of your shoulders,” said Eytan Levy of Snarky Nomad. “Good shoulder straps are the difference between an easy trip and a hard trip.”
• Hip-belt comfort and design: A hip belt transfers heavy loads from your back and shoulders onto your hips, letting your legs—not your back—bear the brunt of the weight. Just having a waist belt is a plus, but having a padded and sculpted one—especially on bags with over 40 liters of volume—makes a world of difference.
• Material quality: Durability is critical for any type of luggage, but especially for a backpack that will be your only bag. Most bags worth considering are made of nylon, which resists abrasion more than polyester fabrics of similar density. Spending more, however, can get you exotic, light, and strong materials, such as Dyneema or sailcloth.
• Weight: Once the bags arrived, we weighed each one ourselves. Most of the bags weighed within a few pounds of one another. But unless you’re very strict with yourself, by the time you’re packed for a two-week journey, all bags are going to feel equally massive, even if one is just 2 pounds heavier than another when empty.
• Stowable straps: These are nice to have, but they aren’t absolutely necessary. “The more often you need to check a bag, the more often you need to hide away the straps,” Levy said. “But if the straps are tough enough, it doesn’t matter.”
• Accessory pocket layout and design: Some people will love an accessory pocket that has a specific space for everything; others may find that feature constricting and unadaptable. We prioritized bags with simple designs that guided our packing without constraining us.
• Style: This is purely subjective. We preferred bags that had a minimalist exterior style, but not all of our picks will please everyone. Most of the people we spoke with, however, preferred not to stick out like a tourist wearing a large, colorful backpack, if they could avoid it.

During testing, we flew across the country with these bags, took weekend trips to nearby cities, lived out of them on extended trips, and tried them locally in our daily routines. We also packed and unpacked each bag, using a standardized set of weeklong travel necessities and accessories, to see how well the internal organizational features (or lack thereof) aided or got in the way of efficient packing.

This is not a comprehensive list of all of the carry-on travel backpacks we have tested. We have removed any models that have been discontinued or that no longer meet our criteria.

The Away Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L is a rare miss from the Away team. This bag is resoundingly average for the price. Although it’s made from excellent materials, the bag is let down by its overall design, which lacks any kind of structure or attention to comfort. There are better options.

The cheap, no-frills Cabin Max Metz bag is intriguing for the price. Any bag at this price should almost be considered disposable. That said, if you need a simple bag that costs less than a seat upgrade, this might be the way to go—unless you can pick up the eBags Motherlode bag for under $100, which we think is a better deal at that price.

The GeniusPack Travel Backpack is the only model we came across that tried to fit a suit into a travel backpack. Though some people might need that, we think those who have to travel with a suit (or clothes that require pressing) would be better off with a piece of carry-on luggage . GeniusPack now offers a second version of this bag, but our conclusion hasn’t changed.

For certain people, the GoRuck GR3 is almost worth the cost. It’s strong and simple and covered by an iron-clad repair guarantee. The removable hip belt is comfortable to wear, and it’s good at displacing the weight of a 45-liter backpack. This is a decent bag. After testing it, however, we weren’t thrilled with the internal Velcro lining for compatible Velcro packing cubes. Velcro isn’t great: It wears out, it’s difficult to keep clean, and it clings to dirt. That might seem like a small thing, but for the price, this bag should feel perfect.

The Minaal Carry-On 2.0 was designed to be a backpack for business people. But if you’re carrying it for business, you’re probably wearing at least a blazer, so you wouldn’t use a backpack in any case. If you’re a business traveler who falls more on the casual end of the business-casual spectrum, and you’re not on a budget, this is a well-thought-out pack. But we think our picks are more versatile for world travel, and they come at a better price. Minaal has since introduced a 3.0 version of this bag ; our thoughts about it remain the same.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a slightly larger sibling of the Farpoint pack. The Sojourn Porter bag is about 2 inches longer, and it pushes right up to most airline limits. If you don’t mind possibly having to check your bag at the last minute, this would be an excellent alternative to the Farpoint pack.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Chase Reeves, Matterful.co , phone interview , October 10, 2018

Addison Ryan, moderator, r/onebag , email interview , September 8, 2018

Lindsay Lorraine Calderón, moderator, r/heronebag , phone interview , September 28, 2018

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 Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

For trips ranging from a week to multiple months, the Osprey Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 carried everything we needed comfortably.

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

The Best Buy It for Life Backpack (Please Don’t Call It Tactical)

by Kit Dillon

A buy-it-for-a-lifetime backpack should last you for years of heavy use. But as with all investments, you need to decide if it makes sense for you.

The Best Laptop Backpacks

by Zoe Vanderweide

A great laptop backpack protects your tech, is comfortable to carry, and looks good, too. These five bags are our favorites for wrangling your workday gear.

Zippered Travel Quart Bag (TSA-Compliant)

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The 10 Best Travel Totes to Feel Fancy Every Time You Commute

Pack your bags.

Byrdie / Brian Kopinski

While other types of bags, like suitcases and backpacks , have their place in your travel line-up, totes tend to have the ideal size, weight, and roominess for shorter trips or easy access en route.

“A travel tote is the ultimate accessory for any getaway,” says Marissa Galante Frank , Bloomingdale’s fashion director for accessories and beauty. “From the airport to the beach , you will find yourself using this tote more than you anticipated, which is why investing in a good one is key.”

It can be a challenge to find the right tote that can hold everything you need without becoming too heavy or cumbersome. So we surveyed 40 of our editors to find out which totes they swear by for commuting, vacationing, and everything in between. We asked them to rate each tote on size, organization, durability, and comfort, and after receiving their responses, we compiled this list of the best travel tote bags.

• What To Look For

Why Trust Byrdie

Best overall, quince revive nylon large tote.

Fabric: Recycled nylon, recycled leather | Sizes: 13" H x 17" W x 5" D | Colors: 5

To put it simply, we love this tote. We’ve taken it on work trips, vacations, beach days, errand runs, and it always makes packing a breeze. The spacious interior has multiple compartments and a 15-inch laptop sleeve . Having two open pockets on the outside also makes our life easier by giving us a place to quickly tuck away our phone. Despite all that it’s able to carry, the bag distributes weight evenly and doesn’t get super heavy. We find the $90 price point a good middle ground for a travel tote, and all the details, like the leather trims, magnetic closures, and five stylish colorways make it worth the price. Not to mention that the water-resistant nylon is made from recycled water bottles and the leather is recycled as well. In fact, we can’t think of anything we would change.

Best Budget

Baggu duck bag.

Fabric: Cotton | Sizes: 15.5" × 11.5" × 4.75" | Colors: 11

Who says you have to spend a ton of money for a high quality tote bag? Baggu’s Duck Bag checks off all the features we are looking for while coming in at less than $40. The bag is large enough to fit our 15-inch laptop and can still hold other essentials like a full size water bottle, books, and snacks. A zipped interior pocket keeps our valuables secured and handy. Made from recycled cotton canvas , the tote is extremely durable and easy to clean . Even after spilling an entire burrito inside—epic fail, we know—we were able to throw it into the wash and get it back to looking clean without compromising the fabric or quality. In addition to the top handle, the bag comes with an adjustable crossbody strap that’s actually long enough to accommodate plus-sizes. Add in the fun patterns, and this bag is a winner all around.

Best Carry-On

Béis east to west tote.

Fabric: Recycled polyester, recycled faux leather | Sizes: W 17.13" x H 14.17" x D 9.06" | Colors: Black, Beige

In an age where airline fees keep on climbing, you can only afford to bring the most functional travel bags. This one from Beis is so efficient, we've used it as a carry-on. No inch is wasted, and inside you'll find a padded laptop sleeve (fits 13-inch or 15-inch), one large zippered pocket, two cellphone pockets, two water bottle pockets, and two pen pockets. We can't count all the times we scrambled to find a pen during a trip, and this bag finally gives it a place.

The outside is strategically designed as well. This is one of the few totes that has both a short and long handle in addition to a removable shoulder strap . And we love how the key leash is inside the outside zipped pocket—so often they are inside the main compartment, leaving us still digging around for the keys. The luggage sleeve allows us to zip through the airport and the zipped top ensures that even if our luggage tips over, nothing will fall out. Made from recycled polyester with a recycled faux leather trim , this tote is sustainable and durable.

Best Zippered

Longchamp tote bag.

Material: Leather, Recycled polyamide canvas with inside coating | Dimensions: 12.2" L x 11.8" H x 7.5" W | Colors: 7

Longchamp’s Pliage Tote Bag is iconic for good reason. Similar to the L.L. Bean Boat and Tote, it’s the type of unstructured bag where you can throw a ton of stuff inside while the top zipper keeps everything secure, and the nylon and leather exterior looks stylish. Not to mention leather and nylon are durable and easy to keep clean.

We love to take this bag on international trips, since it’s roomy enough to hold packing cubes and easily fits under an airplane seat, or we can fold it down into a suitcase when not in use. It’s light and sleek enough to use as a purse while sightseeing, and we appreciate the extra security of the top zipper. There’s two flap pockets on the inside that can store your keys, passport, or wallet, so you aren’t digging around the bag to find them. The luxe designs and materials mean you'll be using this tote for years to come.

Best Weekender

Mz wallace large metro tote deluxe.

Bloomingdale's

Material: Nylon | Dimensions: 14.5" L ×11" W × 14.5" H | Colors: 9

Finding the right tote for a weekend getaway can be tricky, since you need something that can hold everything from clothes to cosmetics to electronics. Cue the MZ Wallace Metro Tote. Dubbed the Mary Poppins bag, this tote strikes the right balance of endless space and organization. We get six pockets on the inside and five pockets on the outside with ample room in the middle to hold bulky items like a laptop and clothes. All the pockets are zipped , so we don’t have to worry about things falling out as we throw this into our car. Plus, the bag comes with three detachable pouches that we love to use for our beauty products and chargers. Despite how much we pack into this bag, the quilted nylon remains incredibly lightweight . And for trips that involve flights, we can just stick this bag on top of our suitcase thanks to the nifty luggage sleeve .

Yet we use this bag for way more than just weekend trips . It’s sleek and stylish enough to take into the office, and the extra-wide straps leave our shoulders-pain free during our commute. Plus, there’s a detachable crossbody strap . If you've seen this bag all over your Insta feed and in IRL, now you know why.

Best for Work

Caraa studio large leather tote.

Material: Leather, waterproof nylon | Dimensions: 13" x 18" x 7.5" | Colors: Black

Several editors swear by the Caraa Studio Tote as their work bag , and here’s why: there’s a pocket for any scenario imaginable. Besides the standard laptop pocket—which can hold a 17-inch device —there’s eight pockets for all our essentials as well as a water bottle holder so we stay hydrated yet spill-free. Even if we were to spill inside the bag, it wouldn't be the end of the world, as the interior is made from waterproof, antimicrobial nylon .

When we're rushing to take the subway, every second counts, so we appreciate all the small conveniences like a key leash , an exterior phone pocket , and a covered shoe compartment to store our flats or sneakers. And whenever we get tired of wearing the bag over our shoulder, we use the detachable straps to convert it into a chic backpack instead. Not only is the Italian leather gorgeous, but the pebbled texture makes it more durable and resistant to scratches and scuffs. Yes this tote is more expensive, but it's made our morning commute less stressful, which is priceless.

Best Canvas

L.l.bean boat and tote bag.

Fabric: Cotton | Sizes: 15" H x 17" W x 7½" D (Large) | Colors: 13

While sometimes we want a bag with all the bells and whistles, other times we want a simple tote bag that can lug anything and be stuffed into any corner. Hello, the L.L. Bean Boat and Tote Bag. Made from heavyweight canvas with a reinforced flat bottom and no pockets, this bag can be stuffed to the brim and then folded up when not in use. It’s our go-to bag for weekend trips, beach days, grocery shopping, etc. and it always holds everything we need—the brand has tested it to hold up to 500 pounds . Though we personally love the convenience of being able to reach in and grab anything from the open top , if you prefer extra security, it also comes in a zipped version. The white canvas and colorful straps will never go out of style, and you can choose from 13 different colors and add a monogram for only $8 . The bag ranges from small to extra large , and if you want to easily wear it over your shoulder, we recommend ordering the long straps. It honestly may be the best $40 you’ll ever spend.

Best Leather

Bandolier tote bag.

If you prefer the look of a leather tote , we adore this one from Bandolier. Crafted from pebbled leather , it's more durable than smooth leather designs that can scuff easily. Besides the scrumptious material, the tote is the ideal size for trips and going to the office. We usually end up throwing our sunglasses somewhere in our tote, but this bag actually has a special compartment for them, in addition to a key leash, 15-inch laptop sleeve, and additional zip pockets. After filing the bag with all our items, it doesn’t weigh us down or become bulky. Though it doesn’t zip close, it does have a magnetic closure for extra security.

Best for Outdoors

Carhartt legacy east/west tote.

Material: Polyester | Dimensions: 16.5" x 13.5" x 7" | Colors: Black, Carhartt Brown

Outdoor trips require bags that are highly durable and versatile, such as this bag from Carhartt, which is made from water-repellent polyester . We love how we can keep our personal items organized for a road trip or camping getaway, without needing to worry about the bag staying dry or the fabric getting wrecked. The spacious tote also features plenty of pockets on both the inside and outside, including a zip-closure main compartment and long divider pocket , and it’s available in two neutral colors. After getting this tote in 2018, it’s still going strong.

Best Designer

Marc jacobs the medium tote bag.

Neiman Marcus

Fabric:  Cotton Canvas | Sizes: 13" L x 6" D x 11" H | Colors: 6

If your style is more of using a tote as your catch-all, this bag is definitely for you. “While this bag doesn't have as many compartments or the pass through sleeve for suitcases, I've found it's a great travel option," says fashion stylist Ashlyn Greer . "My laptop fits securely inside, and it sits easily on top of my suitcase for rolling through the airport." Greer also loves how you can take this bag from airport to meeting due to its stylish nature. In addition to a top handle, it also has a removable crossbody strap when we want to go hands free. Made from cotton canvas , the bag is meant to fade and relax over time, for a lived-in look.

What to Look for in a Travel Tote

• Material: Material is without a doubt a key player in your decision when getting a travel bag. For a super long-lasting option, we recommend keeping an eye out for full-grain leather or pebbled leather since it’s more durable and won’t show scuffs or scratches easily. If leather is not your vibe, we recommend a fabric that will be either stain-resistant or easy to clean, like nylon or polyester. A cotton canvas tote, can also be a great option, as it often can be hand or machine washed.
• Organization: The way you organize your bag is personal—and you should find the bag that works to your advantage. The obvious answer is if you like a lot of organization, choose the bag with more pockets. For long distance travel, we recommend looking for a bag with interior pockets and zippered exterior pockets. If you’re more of a catch-all bag kind of person, we recommend looking for a flat-canvas bottom and a structured silhouette to help you stay organized even with less pockets.
• Color: “I often opt for versatile shades like black, brown, or neutrals that seamlessly complement my travel wardrobe,” says Deseri Kelley , founder of a luxury handbag brand. But if you like your accessories to make more of a statement, we recommend sticking with deep hues of statement colors such as deep reds, greens, oranges, etc. You’ll still get a pop of color without dirt showing up easily.

"The perfect size should comfortably fit everything I require for my particular journey without becoming overly burdensome to carry,” says Kelley. If you plan on carrying your laptop in your tote, always double check the tote’s dimensions to see if it’s large enough.

One of the biggest mistakes you can make with your tote—or any bag for that matter—is to hang it in storage. The constant strain on the straps will gradually weaken them, leading them to break eventually. Instead, you should store your bags on a flat surface and consider stuffing them with tissue paper to help retain their shape.

Byrdie writer Rachel Simon has covered shopping and style extensively for publications including Glamour , InStyle , Brides , and more. She teaches writing with Gotham Writers Workshop and Redbud Writers Project.

Freelance fashion writer and full-time copywriter, Dagmara Cintron covers not only fashion, but local Los Angeles stories, rising Latina women stories, and more across other platforms. Having lived between LA and New York City for the last 4 years, she personally shopped around and tested countless travel bags and totes.

Emily Cieslak is an associate commerce editor, covering beauty and fashion. She personally uses the Caraa Studio Tote for commuting to work. Together, the writers interviewed these style experts for this article:

• Deseri Kelley is the founder of luxury handbag brand, DESERI— here she aims to make luxury handbags more accessible to people with a black woman-owned brand, at a reasonable price point. 
• Ashlyn Greer is a professional stylist and founder of Fashivly, a virtual personal styling service. 
• Marissa Galante Frank is Bloomingdale’s Fashion Director for Accessories and Beauty.

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18 Travel Totes for Any Trip | Best Travel Tote Bag

The ever-reliable tote bag’s simple design is great for hauling lots of gear, so let’s check out which one is the right fit for you.

The travel tote bag formula is very simple. It’s a large bag with two long handles, usually carried on one shoulder. This no-nonsense design makes it a very popular option for those just looking to haul a lot of gear around without having to deal with different compartments, lack of space, and fancy buckles and straps. Of course, this simplicity and lack of extra features can be a weakness. Fortunately, lots of brands have taken the concept of a travel tote and have spun off different and interesting designs. The question now is, which one is right for your needs?

We’ve teamed up with REI to bring you this roundup because it’s a great place to start your search for new gear. From bags and travel accessories to clothing for your next trip, they can help you get ready for any adventure. You get even more perks when you become an REI Co-op member , including free shipping, a generous return policy, and rewards worth an average of 10% back annually. Members can also shop the Re/Supply Store for access to returned gear that’s been thoroughly inspected and to trade in used items for other members to enjoy.

So, without further ado, let’s jump into the world of travel tote bags!

• Cotopaxi Taal Convertible Tote (Del Dia)
• REI Co-op Stuff Travel Pack (20L)
• Osprey Arcane Tote Pack
• Fjallraven Kanken Totepack
• The North Face Borealis Tote
• Patagonia Black Hole Gear Tote 61L
• YETI Camino 35 Carryall Tote Bag
• Herschel Supply Co. Strand Duffle
• Aer Go Tote 2
• Peak Design Packable Tote
• BAGGU Standard Baggu Tote
• Bellroy Market Tote
• Mission Workshop The Drift Tote
• Nanobag Reusable Shopping Bag
• RUX Waterproof Bag
• Bellroy Tokyo Wonder Tote 12L
• Aer City Tote
• Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack

Best for: Sustainable Travelers

A travel tote bag is probably the most utilitarian kind of bag out there, but that doesn’t mean it can’t look fun. Cotopaxi’s Taal Convertible Tote features a colorful design courtesy of recycled fabric and we like that they let the employees choose which ones to use per bag. Don’t mistake its environmental friendliness for lack of quality, either. Its zippers are from YKK, while the adjusters are from Woojin; both are well-regarded for their quality hardware. Bonus points: those adjusters from Woojin are colored as well to match the tote’s general vibe.

The basic tote formula still applies. You get a spacious main compartment and a front pocket, and you get a few nice extras. The former has a divider in the middle, a large water bottle pocket, and a small zippered pocket at the back. An underrated feature is its bright interior. We think this is the best travel tote bag if you carry a lot of dark-colored tech gear; it’s easy to see inside, thanks to the colorful fabric. We also welcome the backpack mode option, though we don’t always find it the most comfortable due to the Taal’s Tote’s thin composition and lack of padding.

• It’s made with unused materials from manufacturers that would otherwise be discarded
• We can fit larger bottles in the travel water bottle pocket
• The lack of structure makes it awkward to carry in backpack mode
• There’s no padding on the straps or back panel for added comfort

Since totes have the luxury of a simple design at their core, they make for great compressible bags you can have in reserve. Case in point: REI Co-op’s Stuff Travel Tote. Its key feature is the ability to compress from a 20-liter travel tote bag and down to a smartphone-sized pouch. To put that into perspective, that’s smaller than the 32-ounce Nalgene bottle we like to travel with. Even in its uncompressed form, tight dimensions are a key focus, as REI keenly points out that its linear dimensions comply with airport requirements (though that’s subject to change depending on the regulations).

As you can imagine, it doesn’t have a ton of luxuries to keep the design simple. Inside the main compartment is the lone zippered pocket where the whole Stuff Travel Tote packs into, which we like to use as a quick-stash pocket for small gear. However, we find it hard to see your gear inside the dark interior. Plus, the relatively thin fabric wrinkles when you compress the bag.

• It packs down to be smaller than your Nalgene water bottle
• This bag is made with bluesign®-approved materials
• It looks a bit wrinkly when you unpack it
• This carries more like a backpack

The Arcane Tote Pack from Osprey is technically a travel tote, but it wouldn't be out of place in a backpack roundup, either. This one's for those looking for the grab-and-go convenience of travel tote handles on a backpack. The handles themselves are relatively short, so our testers with bigger builds find them a bit tight. Fortunately, the backpack straps are well-padded in case you get tired of tote-style carrying.

Unlike open-top or zipped-up tote bags, the Arcane Tote Pack uses a rolltop closure and a zipper for its main compartment. It's not exactly fast access, but it is quite secure, which is great if that's a trade-off you're willing to make. We find it easy to find what we need inside thanks to the organization, including a padded laptop sleeve (with a false bottom) that can fit a 15-inch device, an additional sleeve for a smaller device, a key clip, plus smaller pen and mesh pockets.

• This rolltop bag includes amply padded shoulder straps if you’d rather carry it as a backpack
• It’s a travel tote that has simple yet effective organization that’s easy to use
• It’s inconvenient to access the key clip since it’s in the main compartment
• There are no water bottle pockets

Fans of Fjallraven will be delighted to know that we have found the best travel tote for you. The Kanken Totepack features the brand’s signature G-1000 fabric that’s coated with Greenland Wax for water resistance. The downside? Well, we find that the fabric attracts pet hair quite effectively, and the boxy styling and large logo can be polarizing, depending on who you ask. Apart from the long travel tote bag handles, there are also the usual Kanken grab handles. Plus, you can convert one-half of the tote handles to a pair of shoulder straps, though they are relatively thin.

The interior is rather barren, lacking any dividers or pockets for organizing gear, save for a 13-inch laptop sleeve at the back. To make up for it, there is a water bottle pocket on the outside and a front pocket with a bit of independent volume. On the plus side, this leaves most of the 14-liter capacity unobstructed and, therefore, maximized. The biggest con here is the dark interior (at least, of the black colorway), which we find makes sorting through gear quite tricky under poor lighting.

• It brings the Kanken style we like to a travel tote that can also be carried as a backpack
• The materials are durable and weather-resistant
• The material attracts lint and pet hair
• Its harness system makes this the best travel tote bag for smaller users

Best for: Relaxed Travelers

The North Face’s Borealis Tote is just as versatile as the other Borealis bags. Much more than a plain travel tote, we like the inclusion of a 13-inch laptop sleeve, an internal mesh pouch, and a pocket at the front for quick-grab items. It’s also fairly robust, with 300-denier and 600-denier recycled polyester options, plus 210-denier ripstop nylon if you choose to go for a solid-color design. There’s also a non-PFC durable water-repellent coating to keep water from soaking.

Oh, and have we mentioned that it could be used as a backpack as well? Yep, the tote handles, as thin-looking as they may seem, can be converted to a pair of shoulder straps, and they’re surprisingly comfortable, too. That said, the conversion isn’t perfect, as the back handle can catch against the back. Plus, you’ll want to learn from our mistakes and be careful to avoid grabbing the handle with the main compartment open because that can cause the whole bag to tilt and spill your gear.

• The external water bottle pockets and external bungees allow us to carry extra gear
• While the straps are minimal, they’re surprisingly comfortable to carry
• It can upend if you grab the rear handle on its own
• Seeing inside the front quick-access pocket is difficult

Even though Patagonia hasn’t stretched the limits of physics (yet), their Black Hole Gear Tote makes it seem like they’re close. With a rated capacity of 61 liters, you’ll have the freedom to fit just about anything that doesn’t require a forklift—including those bulky beach towels after they’ve picked up sand. Although its capacity is impressive, take note that it’s relatively bare bones, too. It has an open-top design secured only by two straps. The outside is lined with two daisy-chained loops, and there’s also a small front pocket for your everyday carry items. Other than that, you get very few frills and more features that matter.

The main compartment is a big empty space, unobstructed by dividers or small pockets. We like to use pouches or packing cubes to organize your gear, but you can also toss everything in willy-nilly if you don't feel like it. We really find the two compression straps at the top handy for locking gear into place when we pack it to the max. Regardless of how much you decide to carry, the Black Hole Gear Tote is tough as nails despite its simple design. The thick handles are bartack-stitched to the recycled polyester ripstop body. We also dig the glossy finish the TPU-film laminate provides, as well as the weather resistance it gives.

• The huge capacity will allow you to bring a ton or to use it for beach towels at the lake
• TPU-film laminate on the recycled polyester ripstop makes this bag extremely durable and weather-resistant
• Webbing handles could dig into your shoulders if you pack the 61L full of heavy gear
• You can also get it in a 25L capacity if you like the style but find the size just too much to fit on the plane or your car trunk

If you’re looking for the best travel tote for rugged adventures, then consider YETI’s Camino 35 Carryall Tote Bag. From its ThickSkin Shell, which you can easily clean by hosing it down with water, to its molded EVA bottom, it’s a tote that can take the rough and tumble of outdoor adventures. Because of its sturdy construction, the Camino also stands well on its own, making packing just that tiny bit easier. Other goodies include daisy-chained loops at the front, two zippered pockets in the main compartment, and collapsible dividers to keep gear organized. They work really great with various types of YETI bottles, so if you’re as big of a fan as we are, you’ll like this feature.

And we think you’ll want to use nicely insulated bottles like those because the only let-down about the 35-liter Camino is that it’s not a cooler bag. Despite its shared aesthetic with other YETI bags like the Hopper Flip 18 and Hopper M30, there is no insulation, nor is there a zippered closure for the main compartment. There’s only a single strap to hold the opening together, and it's secured by a simple G-hook. Still, it’s a tote that’s spacious and well-appointed with features with toughness as its headlining feature.

• Its waterproof and puncture-resistant ThickSkin™ Shell is very resilient against abrasions in outdoor use
• Loops on the front are great places to clip extra gear, like a Bluetooth speaker or a damp travel towel
• Although it’s a YETI, it’s not a cooler
• While it has waterproof construction on the bottom and sides, allowing us to set it in the damp bottom of the boat, the top is open to the elements if it starts to rain

Herschel Supply Co.'s Strand Duffle may not strictly be a tote, but it has the hallmarks of one. We're particularly digging the padded handles on this tote/duffle hybrid. These are cushy enough that they remind us more of backpack shoulder straps than the minimalist strips other basic totes tout. Unfortunately, this isn't one of those sets of tote handles that magically convert to backpack straps, but at least we still get to enjoy them. However, it’s worth noting that they’re a little stiff at first and take some time to break in.

At 28.5 liters, space isn't an issue, especially when you unfasten the sides for expansion, but organization and interior visibility can still be tricky. Even though there are slip pockets on the outside for quick-grab items and travel water bottles, we wish there were at least one zippered pocket in the main compartment for small valuables you don't want in an open exterior pocket. That said, our Ivy Green colorway has a red and white pinstripe pattern, so visibility is pretty solid. We can’t vouch for other liner colors, though.

• It has nicely padded carry handles more reminiscent of a backpack than a travel tote bag
• If you prefer this style for one-bag travel, this is the best travel tote bag for weekend getaways
• There are no pockets on the inside for small gear
• Some of our testers would like to have the option of adding a longer crossbody strap, but there’s nowhere to clip one

Despite being touted as a packable tote, Aer's Go Tote 2 doesn't feel all that compact. It folds flat or can be rolled to roughly the size of two t-shirts; quite the footprint when you're trying to be space-efficient with your travel bag. That said, it's a feature-packed tote, as expected of a bag from Aer. The most notable of these features is the magnetic buckle of the front pocket. We find it fast and easy to use when you're trying to stuff museum brochures and maps while you're exploring a new city.

You get not one but two water bottle pockets on the Go Tote 2's sides. Mind you, we find that filling both of these takes away space from the main compartment. At the back, there's a small zippered pocket for valuables you'd want to keep close to you, such as your passport and wallet. The main compartment is guarded by a zippered closure that, unfortunately, has gaps on either end of the track that can still let rain and dirt inside. In terms of organization, there’s a laptop sleeve that can fit a 16-inch MacBook Pro, but we wish it had some padding to protect your device. The size is impressive, but we'd suggest using a dedicated laptop sleeve if you're putting a device that large inside.

• The front pocket closes with a magnetic buckle you can open one-handed
• A snapped loop helps hold the handles together on this travel tote bag
• It has a large footprint for a packable tote
• There’s no padding on the laptop sleeve, so you’ll want extra protection

The Peak Design Packable Tote has two things going for it. Firstly, it's a lightweight and compressible travel tote bag that you can stash away in your travel bag. Who wants to carry a 40-liter backpack to the beach just to bring a few towels and sandwiches? No one! We find that a tote like this will fill that role perfectly. Its lack of structure or liner does make it a bit too minimal for heavier duties, but for clothes, beach towels, and toiletries, it'll get the job done. But what if it snags on a seashell or—if you're really unlucky—a beach umbrella? Well, that's where its second headlining feature comes in.

Three words (and a hyphen): self-healing nylon. Although it won't survive getting torn to shreds, the fabric is able to heal small abrasions. Think of scratches from setting the travel tote on rough pavement or getting stepped on by careless beachgoers. It's worth noting that the handles are quite thin, and comfort is noticeably affected despite having light padding.

• Self-healing nylon takes care of light damage to the material
• This is the best travel tote if you’re looking for something compressible that works well as a secondary bag
• There’s no structure or liner material
• It has minimal organization, so pouches and cubes are handy to have

The Standard Baggu Tote is about as barebones as it gets, and that's not necessarily a bad thing. Its super lightweight and thin construction makes it super easy to slip between packing cubes or even in tight security pockets, so we can have it handy when we need it. Compressibility like this comes courtesy of its plain ripstop nylon construction, though that means you'll have to handle this quite gently. Ripstop nylon will stop small rips from deteriorating, but even those minor ones can happen easily.

However, our biggest gripe about the Standard Baggu Tote is the way it carries. Unlike typical totes, which sit perpendicular to your torso, this one sits parallel. This means you have to sling it over your shoulder or carry it like a shopping bag—which makes sense given their similar designs. That said, this raw simplicity is sometimes all you need. It's a reusable shopping bag you can easily take with you on trips.

• It’s a market tote that’s lightweight and folds down small in case you need it
• There are tons of fun colorways and prints to choose from
• It’s awkward to carry over your shoulder
• There’s no structure, so it can’t stand on its own

Best for: Professional Travelers

Even though we like travel totes for how spacious and uncomplicated they are, sometimes there are amenities worth having. For totes that are designed for grocery runs, we're specifically looking for some organization, although not so much that it ruins the truckbed-like openness we like. That's what the Bellroy Market Tote feels like. It's lightweight, has three wine bottle-sized pockets, and is easy to clean in case the juice from our produce leaks inside. One subtle design choice we dig is the gusseted floor, which allows the tote to stand fairly well, provided it's sufficiently packed.

The pocket layout is a bit one-sided, however. With that in mind, packing strategically should be considered to avoid weight imbalance. The Market Tote's relatively thin handles don't have much in the way of cushioning (read: no padding), so you wouldn't want to put too much stress on them more than what's necessary.

• It’s a travel tote with internal organization to keep items protected
• The inside is easy to clean
• The pockets are designed for specific items, so you need to pack smart
• While it can pack up, it doesn’t include a carry case

Mission Workshop's take on a travel tote design is a bit more techy and urbanized. Don't think that's limited to its gray and black styling, though. There's a front pocket that's laden with smaller organization for everyday items ranging from battery banks to snacks. Plus, there's independent access to the laptop compartment, which, by the way, can fit a 16-inch laptop, is padded, and has a false bottom for added protection.

Apart from fitting a laptop in that compartment, you can still get a ton of gear in the main compartment. The 28-liter capacity is spacious enough for organizers and clothing, and we have an easy time packing them in because of the Drift Tote's structured body. Mind you, a fully packed out Drift Tote can get quite hefty, and, unfortunately, the thin shoulder strap lacks the padding for comfortable extended carrying.

• It’s spacious enough to double as a daily driver and weekend bag
• Laptop compartment is floating, well-padded, and is accessed separately from the main compartment
• The shoulder strap lacks padding for comfort during extended carry
• Its rugged materials won’t suit all styles

Best for: Frugal Travelers

When traveling the world, you never know when you may need another bag. That’s why we like the Nanobag Reusable Shopping Bag. It comes in four styles: two standard grocery-style bags, one crossbody, and one drawstring bag. So pick the one that speaks to you, depending on if you’re heading to the market, the beach, or exploring the city. They all pack up into a package that fits in the palm of your hand, so it’s easy to find space for one in your travel backpack, and the ultralight materials include a waterproof coating, which is more than you can say for a grocery bag.

These are packable bags, so they are a bit wrinkly, and they sacrifice shoulder padding for size. That can make carrying heavier items uncomfortable, though, for the most part, they feel fine. We like that the stuff sack is attached since those are so easy to lose on the road. Overall, these bags are great travel companions for those who like to travel lightly and want to prepare for different situations in an unfamiliar city.

• It has surprisingly good water-resistance
• Each of the four styles fit into the palm of your hand when packed
• The lack of padding can be uncomfortable
• While it’s nice that the stuff sack is attached, it can occasionally get in the way

When we’re heading out for a day on the boat, there are always things we want to bring along. Snacks, primarily, but also extra sunscreen, a hat, towel, and maybe an extra layer if the wind picks up while we’re on the water; you get the idea. While you could toss all that in a standard travel tote bag, you’ll want something more water-resistant in case the pilot steers your vessel right into the wake of the yacht in front of you or the skies open up on a previously cloudless day. That’s why we like to bring the RUX Waterproof Bag along, whether we’re hitting the lake on a pontoon or exploring a local river in a kayak. The 840-denier nylon fabric is coated with TPU, making it extra water-resistant, and all of the seams are RF-welded to close any gaps. Plus, you can seal the top’s rolltop design.

We like that it’s so tall because it means we can bring along more gear without taking up precious floor space. Despite its thin appearance, the shoulder strap is surprisingly comfortable, although your mileage may vary as to how long you find that to be true. On the other hand, the tote handles are best carried by hand, as they feel too tight to sling over your shoulder.

If you need more space, you can pair it with the RUX 70L to create some waterproof organization in that big bag, and if you’re looking for something in a similar size with more flexibility, you may want to check out the RUX Bag 25L .

• The rolltop stows away easily when you don’t need it
• It’s nice being able to bring such a high-capacity bag along during water activities
• Its bulky size makes the rolltop difficult to use
• The included handles are very thin

The Bellroy Tokyo Wonder Tote 12L takes the concept of a tote—a simple, open bag with large handles—and adds a lot of features you want in a daily carry, like a laptop sleeve, a bottle pocket, pen slots, and a key leash. But even with all of that segmentation, there’s minimal clutter to get in the way of your gear, and the fairly rigid structure of the tote makes it easy to pack.

There’s a gusseted front zipper pocket that’s split in two for everyday carry essentials like pens, a phone, wallet, and keys, plus there’s an external document sleeve that closes with a snap on a loop so you can grab what you need quickly, or have a space to slide your travel journal. The main compartment is where you’ll find space for your 14-inch laptop (or 16-inch if you go with the larger size tote), a zippered mesh pocket for tech accessories or other travel essentials, and a bottle pocket. We find it great to carry to and from the office and use on the plane since it zips up to keep your gear from rolling a few rows back during takeoff.

• The rubber liners on the tote handles give them good grip so they don’t slip off your shoulder
• It offers a good amount of organization for a tote
• The internal bottle pocket is rather shallow, so you may not be able to zip it up with a taller bottle inside
• The 12L capacity feels small when fully loaded, so it’s more of a daily carry bag than a gear hauler

Aer is pretty much made for city life, so it’s no surprise that we love the Aer City Tote for exploring a new metropolis and hitting a store or market, as well as for commuting to and from the office in style. The 1680D CORDURA® ballistic nylon on this travel tote bag gives it a sleek structure that makes it easy to pack as it sits upright. It has long enough handles to carry comfortably over your shoulder and a keeper to hold them together, which we really like since there’s nothing more annoying than having one handle continually slip off your shoulder.

The front panel features a large pocket that opens with a vertical zipper in the center. That can make it awkward to pack, but it’s good for larger, flat items like a travel journal, a book, or an extra layer. There’s a smaller quick-grab pocket on the back for your phone, plus a luggage pass-through to make it easier to carry through the airport with your rolling carry on luggage . Even though it’s a tote, the inside has padded sleeves for both a 16-inch laptop and a tablet so that you can be productive throughout the day. There’s also a zipper pocket that’s the right size for a phone, wallet, keys, and other such travel essentials, and two large slip pockets where we like to slip over-the-ear noise-canceling headphones, wall chargers, and battery banks. However, you may want to opt for another bag when it rains since there are gaps at either end of the zipper tracks where moisture can get inside your bag.

• It’s structured to stand on its own next to your chair
• A built-in keeper holding the straps together is attached so you can’t accidentally lose it
• Gear can fall out of gaps at the end of the zipped top
• The front vertical pocket is awkward to use without spilling your gear

Sometimes, you want a bag; sometimes, you don’t. Sometimes, you want a tote; sometimes, you want a backpack. Patagonia has created a packable tote pack for the wishy-washy among us, and for those travelers who like to be ready for everything. It’s small enough to toss in the bottom of your travel backpack when you’re unsure if you’ll need an extra bag or not, and the ripstop nylon material is super lightweight, so it won’t drag you down.

• You can pack it away in a compression pocket when you don’t need it
• Sometimes you feel like a tote, sometimes you don’t, so it’s nice to have backpack straps, too
• It looks a little wrinkly when unpacked
• There’s minimal padding on the harness system since it’s a packable bag

In conclusion, you can haul a lot of gear with a tote, and it’s just a matter of the extra features you want on top of that. Whether it’s additional organization, compressibility, or super sturdy construction, there’s bound to be a flavor of tote to suit your needs. Did any of the totes above pique your interest? Let us know, and be sure to check out even more totes at REI .

March 7, 2023

Author: Jude Miguel De Leon

Miguel loves road trips and actively takes the scenic route to make things interesting. When he's not behind the wheel with a trunk full of gear, you'll find him tinkering with a computer; a hobby he picked up while watching tech reviews starting at age 12. You'll never see him consider a product without being armed with plenty of product research & testing first.

The 10 Best Travel Totes, According to Our Editors

Carry your essentials in style.

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

What to look for

It's true that preferences vary—which is exactly why we have 10 different travel totes across different sizes, styles, and price points that have been hand-selected by our editors. Here are the core elements our editors considered when testing:

• Size: The size of your tote bag is dependent on where and why you are traveling. While a quick trip may require a smaller option, international travel may mean you need a roomier interior with lots of storage options.
• Materials: Ideally, your travel tote should be resilient enough to carry and protect all your essentials. Sturdy canvas, sleek nylon, and durable polyester knits are always good options that you can find in a range of styles and price points.
• Colors: We can always stand behind a neutral bag in the world of black, navy, brown, or tan. But if you're partial to bright colors or patterns, we have you covered there, too.
• Travel features: Trolley sleeves and top zippers help tote bags go the extra mile when traveling.

How we chose

To determine our top picks, our fashion, lifestyle, and commerce editors spent days upon months upon years searching and testing tote bags in search of our favorites through airplanes, trains, and automobiles. The results are authentic recommendations based on our lived experiences as industry experts. Of course, specific criteria from size, material, and travel features like laptop and trolley sleeves were kept top of mind throughout our selection process.

From Amazon gems to chic woven options, our editors' picks for the 10 best travel tote bags cover a range of styles and price points.

Bagsmart Women's Tote Bag with Zipper

Bagsmart's affordable gem delivers without breaking the bank. It's extremely lightweight to the point that it almost feels like it's filled with down—which makes expanding a breeze. From boxing gloves to a change of shoes, we were impressed by how much we were able to fit inside when testing. A spacious interior with a padded laptop section and top zipper keep all of your belongings secure.

Dimensions: 16'' x 6''x 13'' | Materials: Polyester and nylon | Colors: Beige, black, pink, grayish brown, dark pink, purple, navy blue, light blue, and pale orange | Trolley Sleeve : No | Top Zipper: Yes

August Noa Everyday Canvas Tote

August Noa's everyday canvas tote is so beloved that Oprah Daily fashion editor Sara Klausing sees editors carrying it at nearly every event she goes to. "From the double handle options to the roomy interior, it's ideal for anything from a daily commute to international travel," says Klausing. Interior compartments and an exclusive, padded laptop section keep your essential organized and protected.

Dimensions: 15.7" x 11.8" x 5.9" | Materials: Recycled c otton canvas | Colors: Natural and black | Trolley Sleeve : Yes | Top Zipper: Yes

Fabletics Everyday Tote

Oprah Daily assistant editor Jane Burnett says this Fabletics style has become her favorite travel tote. "It's lightweight and has zillions of storage spaces (nine, to be exact). The top zipper closure also helps keep my belongings super secure while on the go." Sporty finishes like carabiner zippers and a satiny fabric finish give this tote a modern feel.

Dimensions: 19.2" x 6.3" x 14" | Materials: Nylon | Colors: Cornflower blue, black, magnet gray, navy blue, acid yellow, green plaid, cherry, denim blue, dahlia, ocher dark yellow, walnut, moss green, pebble white, raisin, and summer shale print | Trolley Sleeve : No | Top Zipper: Yes

Beis North to South Tote Bag

Oprah Daily associate editor Shelby Copeland rocks her Beis tote, a tried-and-trusted brand for seasoned travelers, on the daily to help keep up with her busy schedule. Plenty of exterior and interior pockets help keep her organized, while long, thick straps help support the shoulders. Plus, there's a removable crossbody strap in case you want to switch up the silhouette.

Dimensions: 13.39" x 15.16" x 4.72" | Materials: Recycled polyester | Colors: Beige and black | Trolley Sleeve : Yes | Top Zipper: Yes

Rothy's Lightweight Mega Tote

Oprah Daily E-commerce and SEO manager Aaron Radford-Wattley is constantly testing and reviewing product us, and swears by Rothy's mega tote for travel days as well as everyday wear. "It feels secure but has easy access to things you need quickly, like your passport," says Radford-Wattley."Day to day, when I want to just throw in everything, I can fit it in the crook of my arm or over my shoulder. It feels durable, and it's machine-washable, so you don't have to worry about it getting dirty."

Dimensions: 13.6" x 19.7" x 7.4" | Materials: Recycled knit | Colors: Cornflower blue, black, magnet gray, navy blue, acid yellow, green plaid, cherry, denim blue, dahlia, ocher dark yellow, walnut, moss green, pebble white, raisin, and summer shale print | Trolley Sleeve : No | Top Zipper: No

Naghedi Cashmere St. Barths Medium Tote

How chic is this carryall? Oprah Daily beauty director Kate Sandoval Box has sported this Naghedi tote for commuting and traveling for years. You'll get extra style points for the gorgeous color and timeless woven design, but the real win is how much you can actually fit in the spacious interior.

Dimensions: 17" x 9" x 5" | Materials: Recycled nylon | Colors: Cashmere, black, and ecru | Trolley Sleeve : No | Top Zipper: Yes

L.L. Bean Boat and Tote

Oprah Daily creative director Adam Glassman calls this L.L. Bean classic the best travel tote . "They're so lightweight," says Glassman. "You can carry one with you or throw it in your luggage if you're traveling." The beauty of the heavy-duty blank canvas is that you can customize it to your heart's desire. Choose from different sizes, a top zip option, and even personalization.

Dimensions: 12" x 13" x 6" | Materials: Heavy-duty cotton canvas | Colors: Navy, olive, black, khaki, dark green, graphite, mauve, natural, red, regatta blue, slate, and vintage rose | Trolley Sleeve : No | Top Zipper: Optional

Brouk & Co Capri Everyday Stripe Tote

“You get a lot of bang for your buck with this cotton canvas tote," Oprah said of this Brouk & Co beauty when highlighting it in this year's Favorite Things List . "Smart-looking, with vegan leather accents. 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." It's just the right balance of structured and easily carried thanks to a defined silhouette and thick, wide straps.

Dimensions: 18" x 14" x 6" | Materials: Canvas, nylon, and vegan leather | Colors: Brown stripe and blue stripe | Trolley Sleeve : No | Top Zipper: No

MZ Wallace Medium Metro Tote Deluxe

MZ Wallace came up more than a few times when discussing travel totes in the Oprah Daily office. The brand's signature exterior is made from a lightweight padding that's filled with material from recycled water bottles. The end result is a travel bag that expands and reshapes easily for different travel functions. “It's lightweight and scrunches enough to put under the seat in front of you or in an overhead bin," says Glassman.

Dimensions: 11.6" x 12.7" x 9.4" | Materials: Recycled nylon | Colors: Cornflower blue, black, magnet gray, navy blue, acid yellow, green plaid, cherry, denim blue, dahlia, ocher dark yellow, walnut, moss green, pebble white, raisin, and summer shale print | Trolley Sleeve : No | Top Zipper: Yes

Paravel Large Cabana Tote

Oprah Daily market director Rae Ann Herman is often seen toting her Paravel. Whether you choose from the small, medium, or large size, the spacious interior offers plenty of room for a travel sweater and other essentials. Paravel's structured style is ideal for seamlessly stacking on top of luggage or on the seat next to you.

Dimensions: 23.75" x 14.5" x 7.5" | Other Sizes: Small and medium | Materials: Recycled canvas and vegan leather | Colors: Shandy beige/tan, Paloma beige/red/blue, marlin gray/blue, and domino black/white | Trolley Sleeve : No | Top Zipper: No

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

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The 24 Best Travel Tote Bags for Your Next Big Trip

Whether it's your only bag or a carry-on supplement, a travel tote will take your packing game to the next level.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

T&C Tried and True

Medium metro tote deluxe.

Separate Compartment for Organization

Lo & sons catalina deluxe tote.

Luxurious Essential

Cuyana easy travel tote.

Folds Small for Easy Packing

Lululemon packable tote bag.

Classic Tote

Longchamp large le pliage tote.

Everyday to Travel Tote

Etronik travel duffel bag with usb charging port.

Minimalist and Functional

The renew transit weekender.

Bargain Bag

Bluboon travel tote bag.

Madewell The Shopper Tote

Heavy Lifter

Boat and tote.

Whatever your travel needs for the season ahead, odds are that a good tote can make your packing life more organized, and less stressful—honestly, what more could you hope for? With that in mind, we've scoured the internet for the more durable, functional travel totes for every type of traveler, from the serial overpacker to the organization fiend. Here, our favorite finds for all of your journeys.

Perpetually trying to find space in your carry-on for one last thing? Meet what one T&C editor calls, "the personal item of every overpacker's dream." Featuring five exterior pockets, plus six on the interior and an detachably pouch, it will keep all of your travel essentials organized while it's sturdy-yet-lightweight construction makes it easy to tuck in "just in case" items to your hearts desire without overwhelming your arms.

The cushy, reinforced straps are easy on the shoulders, but it also has a detachable crossbody strap and a built-in sleeve to slip over the handle of your luggage if you don't feel like toting. It also comes in four sizes (we're fond of the medium for it's ability to hold oodles of stuff while still slipping neatly beneath the seat in front of you on a plane) and a seasonally-refreshed roster of more than a dozen shades, making it as stylish as it is functional.

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Tote

For the "a place for everything and everything in its place" traveler, this tote has you covered with a zippered bottom pocket that's perfect for separating out toiletries or dirty shoes from the rest of your haul (an interior panel also allows you to open the bottom compartment fully, if you're craving a deeper bag.)

Available in recycled poly or sturdy canvas, at 15" x 14" x 7", it qualifies as a personal item for most airlines and has a handy luggage sleeve to pair with your suitcase. For those looking for larger options, it comes in four additional sizes as well.

Cuyana bags are a favorite of T&C editors and royals alike ( Meghan Markle is a big fan ) for their timelessly stylish silhouettes, buttery soft leather, and effortless functionality. This, their latest launch, is made specifically with travel in mind.

Crafted with lightweight, durable pebbled leather (currently available in four colorways) it offers ample interior space (a 37L volume, to be precise) plus two large pockets, a phone slip, and a key clip, as well as snaps for Cuyana devotees who want to mix in their System Flap Bag or System Zipper Pouch .

If you're more of a "shop when you get there" traveler, this bag brings the souvenir space without taking up lots of room in your primary bag. Water-repellant and roomy (it holds 32L by volume) it features rugged shoulder straps, plus an extra strap that lets it slip over the handle of roller luggage, and can fold into its own exterior pouch when not in use to make a tidy, handheld bundle.

Some things are classic for a reason. Case in point: this timeless Longchamp tote; just ask T&C 's associate shopping editor, Sophie Dweck, who's been carrying hers for over a decade . Made from sleek, easy-to-clean nylon that comes in a cornucopia of colors, it features a simple, spacious interior and strong leather straps that ensure it can stand up to anything your travels throw at it, and look good doing it.

Looking for a tote that's as useful in your day-to-day as it is when you're far away? This multi-use tote has racked up thousands of five-star reviews on Amazon for its versatility. A separate, vented shoe compartment makes it as friendly to gym sessions as beach trips, while its multiple pockets keep essentials organized. It also includes a luggage strap and a USB charging port so you can plug in your tech without rummaging through your bag for your battery pack, and comes in two sizes and almost 30 shades so it will match your travel style.

One reviewer writes: "I must say, it exceeded my expectations in every way! This bag is the perfect blend of style and functionality, making it a must-have for any woman on the go."

Type-A packers, take note: this 100% recycled polyester is all about options. Its four colorways can be worn crossbody, carried in hand, or over the shoulder, and include a zippered exterior pocket, a luggage sleeve, two water bottle holders, and a padded laptop sleeve—all with Everlane's signature modern minimalist vibe.

Available in 20 colorways and textures, this canvas tote features a luggage sleeve that also doubles as a tech pouch so your gadgets will always be at the ready. The sturdy construction and bargain price tag have made it a hit with reviewers, who site its roomy 16.5" x 9" x 14" size and comfort.

One reviewer writes: "I am so happy with this purchase! Reasonable price, large main compartment, and a few zip compartments to organize smaller items. Bag fits perfectly under airline seat, even when stuffed FULL. It stayed in place when I had it on top of my roller bag, and I noticed the shape of it kept it from making everything tip forward (which happened with my previous bag)."

For a travel bag that you can use as a purse all trip, this simple Madewell leather tote brings a perfect mix of style and space (12.75" x 12.75" x 7.5".) It even comes with an interior strap that allows you to change the shape, and doubles as a keyring.

True L.L. Bean lovers know that the brand's classic Boat and Tote bag is hard to beat—after all, it's been one of their signature styles since 1944. Crafted from rugged cotton canvas, it's tested to hold up to 500 pounds, so no matter how much you manage to overpack, this bag is guaranteed to take it on. And with four sizes and two interior lengths to choose from, as well as a dozen colors, there's a perfect one for all your needs.

Caraa Studio Tote

Whether you prefer a classic tote style or a backpack, this Italian leather bag gives you the best of both worlds. Along with the usual amenities (a slew of pockets, adjustable straps) it also has a collapsible waterproof shoe pocket for those days your travel plans call for a quick change.

More: The 18 Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks for Easy, Breezy Packing

Béis The Convertible Weekend Bag

This tote brings two-for-one power with a removable bottom compartment that can be used as is, or as a separate packing cube. Easy to clean polyester and polyurethane make it a cinch to keep looking like new, with a built-in luggage sleeve and removable laptop sleeve give it plenty of function for that rush through TSA.

Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Packable Nylon Tote

Some people pack an extra suitcase when traveling abroad. We propose this packable Tumi tote instead. It folds out to an impressive 8" x 14" x 8 size when fully opened and weighs less than a pound, so you can shop to your heart's content while getting those passport stamps.

More: The 13 Best Luggage Brands for Every Type of Traveler

Carhartt Legacy Tote East/West

Built to work hard, this water-repelling polyester Carhartt bag is tough enough to handle all of your travel adventures. It includes two exterior pockets as well as an interior divider and pockets, so it's and functional on the inside as it is on the outside.

One reviewer writes: "Even better than expected! I used it as my personal item for a trip to Mexico…placed my purse, tablet, magazines, etc inside…lots of pockets! Hides dirt, wipes off easily, very well made."

Revive Nylon Large Tote

Available in five-shades, this nylon tote (made with fabric crafted from 27 recycled water bottles with recycled leather trim) has jumbo exterior slip pockets (plus three interior pockets and a keyring) and a built-in padded laptop sleeve to match its roomy interior with organization.

One reviewer writes: "Great color, roomy, lots of pockets to keep things organized and easy to locate. Perfect for work and travel. Very happy with it."

Dagne Dover Jemi Tote

Want a travel tote that makes a style statement? Bring your puffer coat style to your bag with this versatile, vegan tote made from recycled plastic water bottles. At less than a pound and half (it holds 16.2 L volume), it's super lightweight, and has two sets of comfy handles—one for hand-held use and one for shoulder use—plus a luggage sleeve, so it's great no matter your travel style.

Naghedi Jet Setter Small Tote

Fully lined, basket-woven neoprene brings beautiful texture to this travel tote, making it ideal for those situations when you have to go straight from the plane to an event. It also has a zip closure and zippered interior pocket to ensure that your stuff stays in place even on the wildest travel days.

Scout Travel Bag Large

You want all of the weight in your travel bag to be from your must-haves, not from the bag itself. This colorful version from Scout (it comes in half a dozen colors and patterns) is a featherlight 1 pound, yet can hold up to 65 pounds of your gear, and can fold flat when not in use. It also comes with a zipper pocket and reinforced bottom so everything you pack stays comfortable where you want it.

Barbour Medium Travel Explorer Leather Tote Bag

The biggest name in waxed cotton jackets brings their British heritage sensibility to travel with this luxe 100% leather tote. Measuring 17.72'' x 14.96'', it comes with sturdy top handles and an adjustable shoulder strap for comfortable carrying.

More: The 13 Best Luxury Luggage for Traveling in Style

WONHOX Large Travel Tote Bag

This waterproof travel tote features a luggage sleeve, three interior pockets, including a special compartment to separate wet and dry items (looking at you, still-damp swimsuit) and four external pockets, as well as a zip-open expansion on the bottom so your bag can be as big, or small, as you need.

One reviewer writes : "Schlepped this bag all over Europe and it holds a surprising amount of stuff! The little expander area on the bottom really helped me squeeze in a few extra souvenirs. The trolley sleeve is a MUST from now on. It hooks on to your roller suitcase so easily and is sturdy! I was throwing my baggage up on the train, in and out of taxis and through many airports easy peasy."

Lauren Hubbard is a freelance writer and Town & Country contributor who covers beauty, shopping, entertainment, travel, home decor, wine, and cocktails.

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• Backpacks, Totes + Small Bags

The 13 Best Toiletry Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Keep all your beauty and grooming essentials in one place when you're on the road.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Other Bags We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

There are a few things every traveler needs, no matter where in the world they're going — and a toiletry bag is one of them. The humble case might be an afterthought to some, but these helpful bags are crucial to keeping your travel essentials organized.

We tested 52 toiletry bags and cosmetic cases (and continue to do so for a period of at least six months) in order to bring to you the best of the best, evaluating capacity, design, portability, and value. We also considered the overall quality of the bags, as well as their ease of use on real trips.

Taking our test results into consideration, we've put together a list of the best toiletry bags across various categories; you’re sure to find one that suits your needs.

Best Overall

Away large toiletry bag.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5

This bag holds more than you'd expect from just looking at it.

The limited edition colors often sell out fast.

You might be most familiar with Away for its selection of hardside luggage and weekender bags, but the brand carries travel accessories, too, including this large toiletry bag that earned high marks across the board during our tests.

Though we found the bag to be even roomier than expected, there are so many individual compartments including a clear cosmetic bag, a zippered pouch, two mesh linings, and an exterior pocket, to name a few. You won't be reaching into a bottomless pit, rummaging around for individual products here. We also love that the bag zips open wide enough for you to reach inside with ease. We packed it with both large and small items, from travel-size liquid bottles to makeup brushes, and there was still room for more.

We also noted the durability of the water-resistant nylon, which is lightweight without feeling cheap. The interior of the bag is coated with an easy-to-wipe material, allowing you to clean up any spills quickly. The bag comes in five color options (with limited edition colorways offered on occasion), as well as a smaller size option and a hanging version of the bag.

The Details: 10.2 x 3.7 x 5.9 inches | 8.8 ounces | Nylon | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Best Compact

Dagne dover mila toiletry organizer.

Dagne Dover

• Capacity 4 /5

It might be small, but it can still fit full-size makeup brushes.

The dividers take up valuable space.

If you're a toiletry minimalist, this is the case for you. The highly compact Dagne Dover Mila keeps all your products neat and organized in a tiny, plush drum made of water-resistant recycled poly. Unzip the lid and you'll see a grid created by a removable insert — use the insert to keep your products separated from one another, reducing their impact if the toiletry bag is jumbled around. There's also a zippered mesh pocket in the lid, as well as four elastic loops to hold items like makeup brushes and lip balm.

We did notice, however, that the insert takes up quite a bit of space in the bag, and you'd be able to squeeze quite a few more items inside if you remove it instead. Of course in that case, you wouldn't have much help in terms of organization. Ultimately, we love the flexibility — you can customize the bag to suit your needs.

The Details: 5.5 x 5.5 x 5.5 inches | 6 ounces | Material | Recycled poly

Travel + Leisure / Leticia Almeida

Best Waterproof

Matador flatpak zipper toiletry case.

Back Country

• Design 4 /5

It's extremely lightweight — just over an ounce.

There aren't any extra pockets or pouches for organization.

While many toiletry kits are water-resistant, this one is fully waterproof, and that makes all the difference if you're on an outdoor adventure like camping or a multi-day kayaking trip. It's made from a special nylon that has a secret superpower: "dry-through" technology, which allows moisture to escape from the bag without letting any in. That means your toiletries (like a wet toothbrush) can dry while they're in the bag.

We found this bag to be deceptively spacious, given that it looks like a simple pencil pouch at first glance. The bag expands at the bottom, allowing it to stand alone on a flat surface while giving you the space to fit larger items in with ease. That said, there aren't any useful organizational tools to keep your products in order — this is a fairly bare-bones bag.

The Details: 9.5 x 6.75 x 3.5 inches | 1.1 ounces | Nylon | Waterproof

Best Organization

Peak design wash pouch.

Peak Design

The bag is lined with high-density foam for extra protection.

It's a fairly pricey bag.

When you have a large number of toiletries to bring with you on vacation, the best thing you can do is choose a toiletry bag that helps you keep everything organized. This is that bag! Though it appears small from the outside, the bag is so thoughtfully designed with organizational tools — we found that there's a pocket for just about everything. The main compartment is large enough to fit small bottles, while mesh pockets of various sizes line the walls. There's also a separate pocket for your toothbrush, which keeps it nice and clean.

Other highlights include a wide opening to access each pocket easily, and the ability to stand on its own thanks to the bag's layer of high-density foam that also helps protect the items inside. It also has a handy hanging hook if you'd prefer to keep some counter space clear.

The Details: 10.2 x 6 x 4.4 inches | 8.7 ounces | Nylon

Best Dopp Kit

Dare to roam steward dopp kit.

Dare to Roam

The material is antimicrobial and antibacterial.

Organization is limited to three pockets.

What are dopp kits, anyway? Though the term can be used interchangeably with "toiletry bag" today, the dopp kit was originally a durable toiletry bag devised by German leather maker Charles Doppelt that was popular with military personnel in the 20th century. It typically takes the silhouette seen here in this bag — a large main compartment, sometimes with side pockets.

What dopp kits are great for is space; we were amazed by how much could fit in this bag, especially because it's expandable with side clips and adjustable webbing straps. As such, it's ideal for longer trips where you'll need as much space as you can get. We also love that it's made from an antimicrobial and antibacterial nylon (yes, it's water-resistant), though we think it could use a little more organization beyond two interior pockets and one exterior one.

The Details: 4.5 x 8.7 x 4.7 inches | Polyester | Water-resistant

Best Small Hanging

Sea to summit hanging toiletry bag.

Small and lightweight, it's perfectly portable.

It has to hang as it won't stand up on its own.

When it comes to hanging bags, this one is perfectly balanced. It's made from an ultra-thin, water-resistant nylon and takes the shape of a saddlebag, which is ideal for hanging. We found that no matter how many items we stuffed in there, the bag never really felt weighed down; all the products were perfectly situated and easy to access, thanks to a plethora of pockets.

This bag also comes with a detachable mirror, which makes it great for outdoor adventures when you don't have access to a vanity, as well as handles for easy transport. Ultimately, it is perfect for people limited on space and weight, whether they're on a multi-day trek that requires them to carry all their gear or traveling for an extended period of time with limited storage space. The toiletry bag comes in two sizes (we tested the smaller one) and four color options.

The Details: 10.2 x 3.9 x 8.9 inches | 0.3 ounces | Nylon | Water-resistant

Best Large Hanging

Bagsmart hanging toiletry bag.

This is an excellent value if you need to store full-size items.

The material is difficult to clean.

Bagsmart is known for making convenient travel products at affordable prices, and that's certainly true of its hanging toiletry bag. Before it's opened, the bag looks just like a little quilted briefcase; inside is an extraordinary amount of storage. Unzip the perimeter and the bag unfurls into four panels of hanging storage for your toiletries, which we found perfectly capable of storing just about every toiletry in the book save for full-size bottles of shampoo and body wash. While most of the storage compartments are variously sized zippered pockets, some actually have elastic bands to help hold your items in place.

The quilted material is made of polyester, which we found to be a little difficult to clean. It is water-resistant, though, and the texture adds a nice visual quality. Plus, it comes in ten colorways.

The Details: 12.6 x 9.1 x 4.3 inches | 15.2 ounces | Polyester | Water-resistant

Best for Cosmetics

Béis the cosmetic case.

The brush holder and mirror are removable.

The main compartment is pretty much just one big open space.

The clean, minimalist design that Béis is so loved for comes through in its cosmetic case: a sturdy bag with plenty of space for makeup aficionados. For starters, it's offered in eight elegant earth tone hues. But then there's the simple rectangular shape, which feels almost handbag-like in its sculptural form, as well as luxe hardware that adds to that handbag quality.

Though this bag can carry all types of toiletries, it's specifically designed with cosmetics in mind. That's evident from the removable mirror and brush holder, which has PVC material where the brush heads will go for easy cleaning. There are also a few slip pockets, which we found especially helpful for palettes. One thing to note, however, is that the main compartment of this toiletry bag is simply a vast space without any dividers to organize individual products. That said, we can report that nothing broke or spilled during evaluations.

The Details: 9.5 x 4 x 7 inches | 1.38 pounds | Polyester | Water-resistant

Best for Men

Bagsmart toiletry bag for men.

It opens wide with a double zipper.

It's made of canvas, which may be hard to clean but is water-resistant.

Fun fact: dopp kits were originally designed for men so it makes perfect sense why this one is designed to fit shaving and grooming products in particular. It's made of canvas for a rough-and-tumble look, and it's offered in seven colors (mostly neutrals, but also light pink) and two sizes. Though we consider it sturdy enough to stand on its own, we also found it flexible enough to be stuffed into a packed weekender.

As for storage capabilities, there's a main compartment that's accessible via a double zipper, which means the kit opens nice and wide for you to be able to access your items. That main compartment can fit bulkier items, while smaller items can fill the pockets along the sides. There are also two separate side pockets, one of which is designed to hold wet items.

The Details: 10.2 x 5.9 x 6.3 inches | 6.4 ounces | Canvas | Water-resistant

Best for Short Trips

Tumi response travel kit.

It opens like a clamshell.

It's not water-resistant.

Luxury brand Tumi doesn't only make high-end suitcases and travel bags — they also make high-end toiletry bags. Made from ballistic nylon (and offered in three colorways), this is one of the most durable toiletry bags out there, and it wouldn't be surprising if this bag lasted years, even with regular use.

Its best feature is the fact that it opens like a clamshell, with two distinct compartments in each half. That makes it easy to access everything in the bag, whether you're laying it flat on a countertop or you're hanging it via the attached hook. There are four pockets, including one water-resistant one, and two elastic loops to hold products like toothbrushes or razors. We think it’s a reasonably spacious bag, but only for travel-size products — that's why we recommend it for short trips rather than long ones.

The Details: 6.3 x 9.5 x 3.5 inches | 0.9 pounds | Ballistic nylon

Best Leather

Cuyana travel beauty case.

• Portability 4.5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

This is a true luxury item with exquisite craftsmanship.

More care will need to be taken so spills don’t damage the leather.

Take one look at the Cuyana Travel Beauty Case, and it's clear that you're dealing with a luxury item. Made from Italian pebbled leather, this toiletry bag is extremely elegant in each of its three colors: ecru, soft rose, and black. We found that this is high-quality leather that's not so delicate you have to worry about damaging it when stuffing it in your backpack or weekender.

As for storage, there are two main compartments: one with an internal elastic pocket for storing larger items and another that has elastic straps to hold items like makeup brushes in place. They open like a clamshell, and between them is a detachable pouch for smaller items. The pouch is ideal for a few items that can be used to refresh your makeup on a travel day, but it can't hold enough products for a full face.

The Details: 6.2 x 10.2 x 3.1 inches | 1.6 pounds | Italian pebbled leather

MZ Wallace Mica Cosmetic Case

It's a no-nonsense bag — simply stash your stuff and go.

There's only one main compartment with a smaller zippered pocket.

The best thing about a pouch like this one is that it's very straightforward — all you have to do is toss in your items without giving much thought to organization. We loved this particular toiletry bag because it's more spacious than it seems at first glance. That's particularly true of the one zippered pocket inside: it was able to hold seven makeup brushes.

By the same token, the lack of organization might be frustrating to some. Depending on your preference, you might wish there were a few dividers or additional pockets to keep things a little tidier inside the bag. Still, the amount of space it has for items is impressive, and for some travelers, that might be just what they're looking for.

The Details: 9.49 x 4.02 x 5.98 inches | 0.23 pounds | REC Oxford

Best Budget

Wandf toiletry bag.

• Portability 4 /5

It comes in nearly 20 colors.

The main compartment only has one zipper, which makes it a little tough to retrieve items.

As you're probably well aware by this point, toiletry bags can get quite expensive — but they don't have to be. This is a particularly budget-friendly model, yet it accomplishes just about everything you'd need a toiletry bag to do. For one, it has multiple compartments. And for another, it's a water-resistant case, which means it can handle being splashed on a bathroom counter.

The compartments are both the success and the downfall of this toiletry bag. We were beyond impressed with the amount of space inside the main compartment, as well as with the two side compartments with mesh pockets. But we found that the main compartment was almost too spacious and could benefit from another divider of some kind. Given its size, it could also benefit from a double zipper opening, which would allow you to access more items throughout the bag than the existing single zipper.

The Details: 10.24 x 4.72 x 5.91 inches | 3.53 ounces | Nylon | Water-resistant

Other Toiletry Bags We Liked

• Dagne Dover Hunter Neoprene Toiletry Bag : We love the soft, water-resistant neoprene material of this bag, as well as the two detached pouches for easy organization. (And did we mention the colors? Those are beautiful, too!) Unfortunately, we found it to be a tight fit to squeeze both of the detachable pouches into the main bag when all three had items in them.
• State Bags Bensen Dopp Kit : This is a spacious bag with a detachable pouch for additional storage — there's not much to not like here. But we think it's a bit too expensive, and we found the hook to be too small to use in many cases. Because it's so spacious, it's best for longer trips, as we think it might take up a bit too much room in a carry-on bag.
• L.L.Bean Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag, Medium : A favorite for decades, this bag is the king when it comes to storage space and organization — there are pockets for just about everything. Some might find the sheer number of storage spaces to be overwhelming. But others, particularly those going on long trips or families who might be sharing a toiletry bag, will love the roominess.
• Baggu Dopp Kit : This bag packs flat, which is great when you need to store it somewhere. But when you expand it, you'll find that it's large enough to carry all of your toiletries and then some. The only thing we worried about was the durability of the materials. Though it did not fail any of our rigorous tests, we suspect it may wear out over time.

We tested 52 toiletry bags and cosmetics cases in our lab to determine the best products.

Testing started with an analysis of the bag when it was empty; we examined the materials, the construction, and the overall design.

Then we packed the bags with common travel essentials like toiletry bottles, makeup, and dental products, among other items. We then re-evaluated the design of the bag, noting overall capacity; convenience and security of organizational compartments, pockets, and pouches; closure functionality (such as zippers, magnetic clasps, and Velcro tabs); and overall sturdiness and stability of the bag.

Next, we put the bags into weekenders, carry-on luggage, and backpacks to see how they'd fit. We also carried around the larger bags to evaluate the feel of the toiletry bags in them.

Finally, we rated each toiletry bag on its capacity, design, portability, and value, all the while considering extra characteristics like the material's water-resistance, ease of cleaning, and any extra features, such as hanging straps or built-in mirrors.

Testing of the toiletry kits then continues for a period of six months on our real-world trips, and we will continue to update this article based on the results.

When the bag was fully packed, we placed it inside a large weekender bag to get a sense of its weight by carrying it around our lab. We also checked how much space the bag took up inside the weekender bag to determine if there was ample room to store other items, such as clothing and accessories. We then determined whether the bag would be suitable for weekend trips and/or longer vacations.

After rating for all attributes, we checked each bag's price to rate the overall value.

Tips for Buying a Toiletry Bag

Look at the design of the bag.

Some toiletry bags are voids — they have one cavernous space to fit all your items. But others are separated into compartments with pockets and pouches to keep your items in place. Depending on what you're storing in your toiletry bag, you might prefer more organizational tools than a single open space. Also consider the material; more durable, water-resistant materials are ideal for toiletry bags, since they'll be getting quite a bit of use on the road.

Consider capacity and the items you pack

What do you plan on putting in a toiletry bag? If you're a minimalist who carries very few toiletries — say, just face wash and toothpaste — you might only need a small case But if you have an extensive skincare routine — including sunscreen and after-sun lotion — and you travel with all your makeup, you'll need a bag with enough space for everything.

Think about portability

If you plan on taking your toiletry bag in your carry-on, you'll want it to be as compact and lightweight as possible to save room for everything else in your bag. And if you're packing liquids, gels, or aerosols, make sure your items’ sizes comply with the TSA's 3-1-1 rule . If you're checking your toiletry bag, though, you might have more flexibility with size and weight.

While a clear bag is not explicitly stated on all sections of the TSA website , this is the common practice and can speed things up at the security checkpoint. Toiletry bags that don't hold any liquids, as well as toiletry bags that will be checked in your suitcase (regardless of their contents), do not need to be clear.

Since toiletry bags frequently come into contact with liquids — either from leaking products or from the bathroom counter — water-resistant or waterproof materials are best. Another factor to consider is durability. Toiletry bags are typically fairly heavily used when you travel, so it's best to look for tear-proof fabric that will hold up over time.

A TSA-approved toiletry bag is one that meets the TSA's requirements for the 3-1-1 rule regarding liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes packed in carry-ons. These products must be 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters or less, and they all must fit in " 1 quart size, clear, plastic, zip top bag ."

You can pack just about anything in a toiletry bag, from hair products to body washes to makeup. Depending on what you plan on putting in your toiletry bag, you may want to look for ones with special pockets — many toiletry bags have designated spots for items like makeup brushes or palettes to keep them secure.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Stefanie Waldek is a freelance travel writer with a decade of experience. For this article, she incorporated tester feedback and used her own experience with toiletry bags.

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Related Articles

How To Lock A Bag With One Zipper

• August 15, 2022

Bags come in many different styles, but some of them may not be the perfect one to use during travels. Some bags only come with one zipper, which can be a problem during travels. If you have a bag you'd like to lock but it only has one zipper, you're in luck because we have solutions to this issue.

Locking a bag with only one zipper may require a little bit of crafting on your part. If it only has one zipper for the entire bag, you can sew a small ring on the side of your bag to have place to put on a lock. You can also convert your existing zippers into lockable zippers as an alternative.

Knowing that you can lock single-zipper bags can be quite exciting, especially if you have a particular bag you like to use. Keep reading because in this post, we will be listing down suggestions on how to secure your bags, as well as alternatives you can use to lock them.

One of the things we always have to consider when traveling is to secure the items inside the bags. While this is very easy to do with suitcases and other travel bags like duffel bags, it can be a problem for single-zipper bags like some backpacks or messenger bags.

Bags with single zippers are better to use for sightseeing or quick trips to certain destinations. However, it can't be denied that we do have our favorite bags that we might want to bring with us everywhere. Unfortunately, single zipper bags do not have a place to put the lock on.

Fortunately, there are some hacks that you can do to lock bags with only one zipper. It will require a bit of work on your part, but it will make your bags more secure. You can do this hack on bags made of fabric or any soft material, as long as you can thread a needle through them.

Materials Needed:

• Solid metal ring
• Heavy-duty thread

Instructions:

1. prepare your items.

First, you will need to gather your items. For this hack, you will need a solid metal ring that is small enough to hide in the flaps of the bag. You can use toggle rings for jewelry making, or you can upcycle the small keychain rings you have at home.

Get these metal rings on Amazon.

2. Sew on the ring

Find a place on the base of the zipper where you close the bag, and place the ring on the end part. Most bags come with a rain flap, and this is a perfect place to put your ring on. Using an overhand stitch, sew the ring on as securely as you can on the fabric of the zipper or the flap.

3. Lock your zippers

Move your sewn-on ring and see if it is loose and it needs more stitches. If not, you can now zip up your bag and use a regular travel lock to secure it in place.

How To Make Lockable Zippers

On some occasions, you can lock together bags with multiple pockets but have single zippers. These are common with camera bags or basic backpacks. Some bags come with a regular zipper, so you can usually thread a lock through the holes. Some of them however, use fabric holders for the handles.

If this is the case with your bag, you can transform these zipper holders into lockable zippers. It's pretty simple to do, but it does require a little bit of wire cutting and crimping to finish the project. A lot of travelers do this hack on their bags because it makes the bag more secure during travels.

• Vinyl-coated wire rope
• Wire cutters
• Pliers (or anything that can cut metal zipper handles off)

1. Gather the materials

Before you begin, make sure that you have everything that you need. For the vinyl-coated wire rope, make sure to get a size that you can thread through the holes of your zipper. Get ferrules that also fit the size of this vinyl-coated wire rope. The best size would be to get a 1/16 wire rope and ferrule.

Check out this wire rope on Amazon.

For the crimper, make sure to get one that is strong enough to lock your wires in place. Some sets already come with wire cutters so it lessens the need to get other tools.

Get this crimper on Amazon.

2. Break off the zipper

If your bag has metal zipper handles, cut them using pliers (or any tool that can remove them neatly.) For fabric pulls, you can simply cut them off using scissors or cutters. The zippers will still be intact on your bag without the handles or pulls.

3. Crimp the edges

Cut a short length of wire rope and thread it through the hole of your zipper. Slip the ferrule on the ends of the rope and crimp them to secure it in place. Tug on it lightly to see if it is tight and sturdy.

4. Lock the bags

With the new lockable zippers in place, you can now lock your bags. If your bags have no other zippers it can lock onto, you can sew a small ring on the fabric of the bag to have a place for the lock to loop through. For bags with multiple zippers, you can now simply thread them together in your travel lock.

Ways To Secure Your Bags

Bags with single zippers are not the most secure, but you definitely will have no problems with it if you are aware of your surroundings. You don't need to break off your zippers or sew on rings if you don't want to, but make sure to always secure your bag close to you when you are out and about.

Always place your bag in front of you, with the zippers facing inwards your body to prevent pickpockets and thieves from opening them without you knowing. Avoid opening them in crowded places and consider putting on a keychain or something heavy on the zipper for you to know if someone tries to move it.

If your backpack pocket only has one zipper, avoid putting anything valuable or important in this section of your bag. Keep everything important inside the main compartment where you can lock the zippers together.

Get this backpack on Amazon.

Of course, the best way to go about these when traveling is to get yourselves some travel-friendly bags. Look for bags that have secure, lockable zippers wherein you can thread a lock on them when necessary. Look for bags that have anti-theft zippers as an additional layer of protection for your items.

Grab this travel backpack on Amazon.

Alternatively, you can also use some S-shaped carabiners to keep your zippers together during travels. They are great because you don't have to memorize combination codes or bring a key with you. This is good if you want to walk around on a tour without having to lock your bags meticulously each time.

Check out these S-biners on Amazon.

Always remember that traveling will always require a heightened sense of awareness to prevent losses in your bags. While locks definitely deters pickpockets and thieves, it is not 100% fool-proof. Be aware of people surrounding you because they can still work around bags even with locks on them.

Final Thoughts

For travelers, it isn't really ideal to bring single-zipper bag because of the lack of security. However, it isn't a set rule and you can still take them if you really prefer using them. Just make sure to make some changes, or use them with heightened awareness if you prefer to keep them as it is.

Are you looking to learn more about luggage for traveling? Look no further because we have great articles you might enjoy:

Do Carry-On Bags Need Tags

Are Carry-On Bags Weighed? [Do Airlines Actually Weigh Them]

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Cuyana Easy Travel Tote Review: Soft, Durable And Built To Last

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In our wider review of the best travel totes on the market, we named Cuyana’s System Tote our best overall option. After the brand’s recent debut of the Easy Travel Tote, we decided to test it to see how it compares.

As a frequent traveler, I’m always looking for a tote that is both durable enough to carry heavy items like my laptop, chargers and tablet as well as stylish enough to bring to lunch or dinner after getting off a plane or train. Cuyana, a women-owned clothing and accessories brand known for its long-lasting quality, wearability and design, has been a staple of my travels for the past few years (the Travel Beauty Roll comes with me on every trip), so my ears perked up when I heard of the brand’s latest release, the Easy Travel Tote .

The Easy Travel Tote is the latest travel bag from women-owned clothing and accessories brand ... [+] Cuyana.

I had heard raves from friends and coworkers about Cuyana’s bags, including the System Tote , which we named the best travel tote in our larger review. Made from double-sided Italian leather that softens over time, Cuyana’s bags are investments that are built to last. With multiple trips each month, I often burn through luggage and bags (airport baggage carousels can really do some damage), so I was especially into the idea of having a bag that can withstand my heavy travel schedule, and decided to put the Easy Travel Tote to the test on a weekend road trip.

Cuyana Easy Travel Tote

Dimensions:  14.2 x 25.3 x 6.3 |  Materials: Italian leather |  Weight:  2.9 pounds |  Accessories:  Detachable crossbody strap; easy tote insert; zipper pouch; flap bag (all sold separately) |  Care:  Wipe clean with damp cloth

• Weekend getaways and road trips
• Those seeking a spacious bag made out of high-quality Italian leather
• You need exterior pockets
• You’re looking for a bag to slide over your suitcase; this tote does not come with a trolley sleeve

9 Best Laundry Hampers To Sort Your Family’s Lights And Darks

This is your last day to shop way day 2024—here are the 85 best deals, spacious with multiple pockets and a top zipper.

Like many of Cuyana’s bags , the Easy Travel Tote is made from buttery, pebbled Italian leather. I’m a big fan of leather bags since faux leather can often give off a very chemical or plastic smell. The Easy Travel Tote has a warm, earthy and high-quality leather scent that I noticed as soon as I opened it.

The tote has a deep interior with two large pockets on each side that are spacious enough to hold a pair of headphones, chargers or tablet case. While the interior pockets are not zippered, I do appreciate that this bag has a zippered top, which means I don’t have to worry about items flying out of my bag during bumpy rides or flights (yes, this has happened to me before).

The Easy Travel Tote is the newest travel tote from women-owned clothing and accessories bag Cuyana.

Functional, Versatile And Durable

Because I was only going on a weekend trip, I decided to use the Easy Travel Tote as my primary bag and see how much I could fit inside of it. After inspecting its interior, I knew I could easily put all of its 37 liters of volume to good use. It’s several inches larger and wider than the Classic Easy Zipper Tote , which is the next size down, so I could seamlessly slide in my 16-inch laptop, tablet, all of my chargers, several tops and bottoms, a denim jacket, a pair of shoes and my purse, meaning I didn’t need to bring a suitcase on this trip. Better yet, the tote didn’t feel clunky or look oddly shaped when I picked it up, so I was able to bring it with me to a restaurant for lunch without any issues.

Another great feature of this bag is its versatility. I used a wide shoulder strap , which is sold separately, to sling the bag over my shoulders, making it easy to carry around everywhere. I could also see myself using this tote on commuter days when I’m bouncing around from the gym to dinner and need to bring along my laptop; its chic exterior lets it blend into different environments, from a train station to hang-outs with friends.

For those who prefer a tote they can sling over their shoulder, Cuyana offers adjustable straps that ... [+] are sold separately.

Cuyana Easy Travel Tote: The Final Verdict

After testing Cuyana’s Easy Travel Tote, I can attest to its quality, durability and style. I was able to fit so much inside of it, and it didn’t take up too much space in the trunk of my car. I also found it to be incredibly comfortable: its straps made it easy to sling over my shoulder and carry around shops and restaurants. However, for flights, I would have loved to see this bag include at least one external pocket for easy access to my passport. I also fear that with as much as I packed in it, its lack of trolley sleeve would make it balance very precariously on the top of my suitcase. And at $428, this bag is certainly a splurge, especially when you consider that all of its accessories are sold separately (the adjustable wide strap I used is $88).

The tote's interior is spacious with two large interior pockets that can hold a 16-inch laptop, ... [+] chargers, headphones or other items.

Yet for frequent travelers like myself, this bag delivers. It can easily be used as a gym bag, diaper bag, commuter bag and a personal item on a flight, which means you’ll get a lot of use out of it. And its high-quality leather exterior not only allows it to hold plenty of items while still looking stylish (no easy feat), but it will keep its shape and luster for years to come, making this tote a worthy investment.

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Scott Gilbertson Gear Team

The Best Sleeping Bags for Every Adventure

John Muir famously set off for the mountains with “some bread and tea in a pair of blankets with some sugar and a tin cup.” I admire his ultralight spirit and disdain for comfort on the trail, but I'd be willing to bet that if Muir were around today, he'd bring a good down sleeping bag with him, if for no other reason than they're lighter than old blankets. The tea is essential though, I can't argue with that.

Whether you're following Muir into the backcountry, are planning the perfect family camping trip, or are trekking the Camino de Santiago, there's a sleeping bag for that. No matter how you travel, where you're headed, or how much comfort you seek, after years of testing, we've found the best sleeping bags for everyone.

Adrienne So, Martin Cizmar, and Matt Jancer contributed to this guide.

Be sure to read through our other outdoor guides, including the Best Sleeping Pads , Best Tents , Best Camp Stoves, and our Camp Cooking guide.

• Best for Backpackers : Mountain Hardware Bishop Pass 15
• Best for Car Campers: REI Siesta Hooded 20
• Best All-in-One Sleep System: Zenbivy Bed
• Best Ultralight: Sea to Summit Spark 15
• Best for Side Sleepers: Therm-a-Rest Questar 20
• Best for Warm Weather: Marmot NanoWave 45
• Best For Spring and Fall Trips : Magma 15 Sleeping Bag
• Best Expedition Bag : Rab Expedition 1000
• Best Quilt : Therm-a-rest Vesper 32
• Best for Kids : REI Kindercone
• Best Synthetic Bag : Marmot Ultra Elite 20

How to Pick the Perfect Sleeping Bag

How we tested.

• What All The Terms Mean

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The Best Sleeping Bag for Backpackers

Photograph: Scott Gilbertson

Mountain Hardware's Bishop Pass 15 offers the best warmth-to-weight ratio while also managing to pack down small and not be too expensive. It isn't perfect, but it strikes the best compromise for most backpackers, being warm enough for the shoulder seasons and light enough (2 pounds and 5.4 ounces) that you won't mind it even when you barely need it in the summer. I have slept in this bag for more than two weeks, with nighttime temps ranging from 28 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit, and, yes, it was too much in the heat as a sleeping bag. But on those warmer nights, I unzipped it and covered myself like a warm blanket. For everything else, I slept very well. It's a versatile bag.

The Bishop Pass 15 uses 650-fill-power down wrapped in a 20-denier water-resistant ripstop nylon shell. (Note: You'll often see 20-denier written as 20D; see below for more on what those terms mean .) One of the great things about this bag is the draft collar and face gasket feature, which does a great job of keeping your head warm. With the drawcord cinched down, you can conserve even more body heat. This is one of the few bags I've tested where I didn't feel the need for a hat. The insulation does a good job of staying where it should; I didn't find any bad cold spots in this bag.

My only gripe about this bag is that it's tight—there's not much room for anything but me. That makes it efficient and keeps you warmer, but this is not a good option if you're looking for something roomy (see the Therm-a-Rest Questar below). I also don't love the zipper. The pull glows in the dark, which is great, and the zipper doesn't snag much, but in my experience, it also doesn't pull as easily as others. Still, those are minor gripes about a bag that gets the rest right.

• Temp rating: 15°F / -9°C
• Comfort rating: 26°F / -3°C
• Fill: 650 Fill-Power Down

The Best Sleeping Bag for Car Campers

Photograph: REI

Car-camping sleeping bags aren’t a place to spend lots of money. Should your best efforts to cocoon warmth around you fail, there is, after all, a car to retreat to. That's why we love the REI Siesta Hooded 20—it's plenty warm and affordable. It's also not a mummy bag, because you're not climbing Denali; why cramp yourself if you don't have to? The Siesta's rectangular cut makes for a much roomier, more comfortable bag. The Siesta is made of recycled polyester throughout, with a polyester filling. Despite that, the lining on this bag is noticeably softer than many others in this guide.

The Siesta's 20-degree rating makes it enough for three-season trips, and unlike most rectangular bags, the Siesta has a hood, which helps on those cold nights. What makes this such a versatile bag, though, is the double zipper system. There's a full-length zipper, which means you can turn it into a quilt on warmer nights, and there's also a second partial-length zipper on the other side so you can have more airflow when you want it. (You can also now zip two Siestas together, which wasn't possible with earlier versions.)

• Temp rating: 20°F / -6°C

Best All-in-One Sleep System

Photograph: Zenbivy

The Zenbivy Bed 25 ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ) is hands down the most comfortable backcountry sleeping experience I've ever had. It wouldn't be my top pick for extreme situations, but so long as your expected temperatures fit in Zenbivy's range, it doesn't get more comfortable than this. The Zenbivy isn't just a sleeping bag though. It's a sheet, hood, and quilt-style bag that can be combined in various ways depending on what you want.

The top sheet that covers the sleeping pad is made of 50-denier polyester pongee, which is wonderfully soft and feels like your bed at home . The sheet has the hood portion of the sleeping bag attached to it. Then you lay the top quilt (made of 20D nylon) over that. This is the coolest, loosest way to use the system, perfect for those warm nights. This is how I did most of my testing since I sleep rather warm. Should the temperature drop, you can zip the quilt foot box up into a mummy bag configuration and zip the upper sides to the bottom sheet. I did this on a couple of cooler nights in the Keweenaw Peninsula when it got quite frigid.

Alistair Charlton

Benj Edwards, Ars Technica

Gabrielle Caplan

Adrienne So

What I didn’t like as much is the sleeping pad that comes with the full Zenbivy Bed. It’s plenty comfortable, but it’s also heavy. I used it for a few car camping trips, but if you’re primarily interested in backpacking, skip it and find something lighter in our sleeping pad guide . I tested the 25F bag, but there's also a 10F version if you want something warmer.

If you're done with mummy bags and aren't planning extreme mountaineering trips, the Zenbivy is worth considering; it is the best night's sleep I've ever had in the backcountry.

• Temp rating : 25°F / -4°C
• Comfort rating: 35°F / 2°C
• Fill : 700 Fill-Power Hydrophobic Down

Best Ultralight Sleeping Bag

The Sea to Summit Spark 18 is my favorite ultralight sleeping bag. Sure, most ultralight enthusiasts use a quilt, but aside from the Zenbivy, I haven't found a quilt I like. The Spark weighs a mere 1 pound 9.7 ounces, the lightest bag in this guide. It also has the smallest pack size of any bag I've tested in this temperature range. With the included compression sack, this thing is truly tiny. It's got most of the benefits of a quilt and none of the negatives (like getting a bit uncomfortable on chilly fall nights), making it a good option for thru-hikers or anyone wanting to save ounces.

I should say that the Sea to Summit Spark series bags were recently updated from the version I tested last year. The temperature rating has been bumped down 3 degrees, but the main difference addressed the one thing I dislike about the version I tested: The thin inner liner has been modestly upgraded to 10D nylon. The outer shell uses a PFC-free DWR coating on 10D nylon. It's still thin, and I suggest you baby this one, but even my thinner version has held up just fine. We've been testing Spark bags since 2018, when our tester took one to Comic-Con , and haven't had any durability issues.

The down fill is also PFC-free and made of 850+ hydrophobic down. The zippers are on the small side, but they slide well and rarely if ever snag on the bag. I've slept in this bag down to 30 degrees, and honestly, even that night I woke up hot. But this is more a testament to how hot I sleep than bag performance (which is good). Like the bishop pass, this is a tight-fitting bag. It's plenty comfy, but you need to love the mummy shape.

While I have tested the 18-degree model (replaced by the new 15F), there is a whole range of Spark's: 45F, 30F, 15F, and 0F. At $549, the Spark 15 is not cheap, but high-end, ultralight gear typically comes with a hefty price tag. If you have extra cash, the Spark Pro line is worth considering as well. I haven't tested it yet, but the full-length zipper that allows the bag to become more like a quilt is interesting.

• Temp rating : 15°F / -9°C
• Comfort rating: 29°F / -2°C
• Fill : 850 Fill-Power Goose Down

Best for Active/Side Sleepers

I once made the mistake of calling a sleeping bag a “mummy bag” in front of my then 8-year-old who exclaimed, “What? Who would want to be a mummy?” Good question, kid. The answer is no one. The “mummy” design is all about warmth, not comfort. But let's face it—most of us are not sleeping in situations where our survival is at stake. Therm-a-Rest has addressed this with what it calls W.A.R.M. fit, which stands for “with additional room for multiple” positions. Indeed, this bag is very roomy for a mummy design. I was able to draw my legs up when side-sleeping and spread out considerably more than with most of the other bags in this guide. If you toss and turn through the nights, and don't want a quilt-style bag, this would be my top pick.

The Questar uses a 20D Polyester DWR-coated outer shell fabric, which does a great job of helping the bag stay dry even when your feet press up against the walls of the too-small tent you're testing . The inside is nylon taffeta. This bag comes with Therm-a-Rest's SynergyLink Connectors, which you can use to secure the sleeping bag to the pad underneath. This, combined with the slightly wider cut, makes this one of the more comfortable bags I've used.

Weighing 2 pounds, 3 ounces, it isn't the lightest bag at this temperature rating, but it is one of the warmest. Therm-a-Rest comfort-rates this bag to 32 degrees, but I used it several nights in Michigan's Porcupine Mountains in temps down to 25 and found it plenty warm. The Questar series is also available in 32-degree and 0-degree versions. We have not tested either, but if you're looking to save some weight and know you won't be in extreme cold, the 32-degree model is worthwhile.

• Temp rating : 20°F / -6°C
• Comfort rating: 32°F / 0°C
• Fill : 650 Fill-Power Nikwax Hydrophobic Down

Best Warm-Weather Sleeping Bag

Photograph: Backcountry

Rated at 55 degrees, this is a warm-weather bag suitable for summers and not much else. It did a fine job keeping me warm on stormy Hawaiian nights camped on the beach, but I wouldn’t take it anywhere during the shoulder seasons. The synthetic insulation shrugged off the humid rainforest air and never became laden with moisture during the six days of beach camping I subjected it to. What blew my mind, though, was how teeny-tiny it packed down. Compressing it to a scant 2.75 liters, the 29-ounce bag wasn’t much bigger than my pair of water bottles. For under $100, that’s fantastic.

I’m used to dealing with dainty zippers on ultralight bags chosen for being small and lightweight. The zipper on the Nanowave 55 was comparatively normal-sized, worked smoothly, and never jammed or caught on the fabric. They worked like butter. Even if it somehow had, I wouldn’t have worried much about ripping the fabric, as it’s tougher and more robust than the expensive lightweight bags in vogue. You won’t have to baby this sleeping bag much. For the money, this is an excellent choice for anybody looking for a summer bag: casual car camper, festival-goer, or lightweight hiker. — Matt Jancer

Editor's note: the Nanowave 55 our tester used is discontinued. The Nanowave 45 featured is the same bag, but with slightly more insulation to give it a lower temp rating.

• Temp rating : 45°F / 7°C
• Comfort rating: 45°F / 7°C
• Fill : Synthetic

Best for Spring and Fall Trips

REI Co-Op's Magma 15 is a no-nonsense down sleeping bag. It doesn't have a lot of frills, it just gets the job done. It's the bag I most often grab for fall and early spring trips where cold weather may arrive unannounced. It has an excellent draft collar that’s very good at keeping out the chill.

The outside is a 15-denier nylon ripstop ( Bluesign approved , with a non-fluorinated DWR coating to keep moisture at bay). Baffles are variably spaced and not stitched through, which helps the fill stay put and minimizes cold spots. I also really like the Magma hood, which is warm and stays on your head throughout the night. There's a nice interior stash pocket I use to keep my headlamp handy.

The Magma series comes in a bewildering array of sizes and shapes—there are nine sizes to choose from, ranging from Short Narrow, which weighs 2 pounds, to Long Wide, which is nearly 3 pounds. One of my favorite features of this bag is the anti-snag zipper, which genuinely doesn't snag, because there's a woven barrier that keeps the down baffle away from the zipper. The zipper is also full-length, extending from the bottom of the foot box to the collar. REI also makes a 30-degree version of the Magma . I have not tested it, but if you only plan to go out in the summer months, that would be my suggestion.

• Comfort rating: 21°F / -6°C
• Fill: 850 Fill-Power Down

An Expedition-Worthy Bag

Photograph: Rab

Rab is an English brand, well regarded by European outdoor enthusiasts long before it came to the US. The Expedition 1000 is a -22 degree bag weighing a mere 3 pounds and 6 ounces, which is light for a bag of this warmth. Its 1,000 grams of 850-fill-power hydrophobic goose down gave me no issues retaining body moisture after sleeping in it for a week on Alaska’s Kahiltna Glacier. Even during a couple of whiteout blizzards where I had to dig my tent out of the snow in the morning, I slept like a baby, warm and cozy thanks to a well-designed neck baffle that kept warm air from escaping around my noggin.

The zippered interior stuff sack was large enough to keep a battery bank, contact lenses, lighter, and hand sanitizer handy throughout the night, and at 5'10", there was plenty of extra space inside the bag to keep my water bottles, boot liners, and yesterday’s damp socks to dry out. One thing I didn’t like was the main body zipper. Lightweight sleeping bags are susceptible to being caught in zipper teeth and tearing. Compared to Marmot’s flawless zippers, the Rab’s gave me some trouble, even though I habitually operated them as if I were handling a newborn. The problem is the fabric surrounding the zipper, which would get sucked into the teeth. It jammed badly enough one night that I thought I would have to sleep another three days with a bag stuck open. Lucky for me, someone had a Leatherman we used to fix it, but that shouldn’t have happened.

Unlike some competing bags, such as the Marmot Col, there are no zippered arm holes to let you stay snug in your bag while hanging out or doing basic tasks in your tent. I didn’t miss it on my weeklong climbing trip, but for longer expeditions where you might spend a whole day in your tent, it’d be nice to have arm holes. If you need an even warmer bag, there's the Expedition 1200 rated at -32 degrees and the Expedition 1400 rated at -40 degrees . — Matt Jancer

• Temp rating: -22°F / -30°C

A Quilt for Warmer Trips

Photograph: Amazon

Quilts are preferred by gram-counting backpackers because they dispense with the unhelpful half of a sleeping shell. The bottom side of a down sleeping bag gets mashed down anyway, meaning there's no lofted insulation for added warmth. The quilt market has no shortage of cottage quiltmakers serving ultralighters and hammockers—I bought a solid one off Etsy last year. Therm-a-Rest's top-of-the-line Vesper, though, has everything you could ask for in a lightweight quilt. The 32-degree version weighs less than a pound, and ratcheting down the included comprehension sack will get it to roughly the size of a Nalgene bottle.

Thanks to 900-fill down insulation, it was more than toasty enough for nights in the low 40s in the Canadian Rockies. The down is hydrophobic, though I didn't douse it for testing. The 32-degree Vesper is cut more generously than the 20-degree version and comfortably covers my larger body frame. This is the bag I would take on any backpacking trip—if you're pushing below this temperature, you'll want to build a system with layers.

• Temp rating : 32°F / 0°C
• Fill : 900 Fill-Power Hydrophobic Down

A warmer alternative : If you want to save a little cash on a Therm-a-Rest quilt and push the temp rating down well below freezing, consider the Therm-a-Rest Corus ($310) . This quilt uses less expensive 650-fill-power down (more on fill power here ), which drops the price by $100 while adding 20 degrees of comfort rating and just 10 ounces of weight, keeping the quilt well below 2 pounds. The Corus has a 20D nylon shell rather than the 10D found on the Vesper, which adds both weight and durability. I only pushed it into the low 40s in my testing but found I had to stick a foot out or I baked under it. I suspect the 20-degree rating might be on the conservative side. — Martin Cizmar

Kid-Friendly Sleeping Bags

Kids' sleeping bags are cut smaller so your little ones don't have to heat up a huge, adult-size sleeping bag to stay warm. While that's 100 percent true, let's be honest, a lot of the appeal of kid-size sleeping bags is the lower price. The REI Kindercone bag fills both needs, being cut to a smaller size and relatively cheap. I would take the temperature rating with a grain of salt though. There is no comfort rating, but if there were, my guess would be around 35 degrees.

The Kindercone makes a great car camping bag, and you can backpack with it, but it's awkward. I spent four nights in the Pisgauh Wilderness lugging this thing around for my son. It's heavy (3 pounds and 3 ounces) and huge. Our hiking distances weren't that long, so after one day of it hogging half my pack, I took to just carrying the Kindercone in my hand. As I said, it's best for car camping. For backpacking, I'd consider something that compresses a bit smaller, like the REI Co-Op Zephyr 25 ($149) .

While the Kindercone is a fine bag, once my kids hit about 4 feet, I put them in adult bags. I did so for two reasons. First, the temperatures we've camped in have mostly been warm enough that staying warm wasn't a concern—summers in the mountains and the Northwoods of Michigan. It's never cold enough that I'm worried about them in a 20-degree adult bag. The second reason is that sleeping bags last a long time and are a significant investment. I wanted something that would last them through their teens, however tall they might be. (Properly cared-for sleeping bags should last decades. I recently retired the North Face Blue Kazoo bag my parents bought me in 1992.) So do you need a to buy kids' bag? For younger kids, I would say yes; for older kids, probably not.

• Temp rating: -25°F / 4°C
• Fill: Polyester fibers

Our Favorite Synthetic Sleeping Bags

This was one of the first sleeping bags stuffed with synthetic insulation that could come close to goose down in terms of packability and weight. Even though synthetic insulation is improving every year, it’s traditionally bulkier than an equivalently warm amount of goose down. For me as an ultralight hiker and climber, the Ultra Elite 20 was a godsend. The bag is rated to 20 degrees Fahrenheit, and I’ve used it everywhere from Washington’s Cascade Mountains to Vermont’s forests to Texas’ high desert. It’s a workhorse sleeping bag, good for most trips taken outside of summer.

I greatly prefer synthetic insulation to goose down in a bag of this temperature rating. Near and above the freezing point—called “wet cold”—liquid water and melting ice are more of a danger to puffy insulation than very cold temperatures, where ice stays ice. Insulation also sucks up moisture from humid air like a sponge, reducing its effectiveness at keeping you warm. Synthetic insulation dries out much more quickly than goose down, and I’ve been on plenty of trips where my Ultra Elite 20 stayed dry and crisp as my buddies’ down bags grew perpetually damp and a touch soggy after three nights.

There’s a zippered interior pocket for keeping small items handy during the night, and Marmot’s zipper design is excellent. I’ve treated it with the care while zipping and unzipping that any lightweight bag demands, but I’ve never had a bad jam, and the fabric isn’t prone to catching on the teeth. At a shade under 2 pounds and only 6.7 liters compressed, it’s a regular in my pack for long-distance backpacking trips and casual car camping trips alike. Unfortunately, Marmot appears to have discontinued this bag; there are still some at retailers, but they likely won't last. — Matt Jancer

• Temp rating: -20°F / -7°C
• Comfort rating: 32.9°F / 0.5°C
• Fill: Synthetic

Photograph: Nemo

Nemo's Forte 20 is a 20-degree synthetic-fill sleeping bag. It's best used as a summer bag, possibly a three-season bag, depending on where you live. While it has 20 in the name and is technically rated to 20 degrees (see below for more on what that means), the comfort rating is 30 degrees. In my testing, this feels more like where you'd want to stay temperature-wise with this bag.

The outer shell uses a 30-denier recycled polyester ripstop with an inside liner made from 20-denier recycled polyester taffeta. It does a good job of holding back the moisture that often forms inside a tent, which I discovered after one very soggy night of testing. The fill is what Nemo calls Zerofiber insulation, which is made from 100 percent postconsumer recycled content fibers. The Zerofiber packs down remarkably small—this is the most compact synthetic-fill bag I've tested in this temp range—and retains its ability to trap warmth even when wet.

What I like most about this bag, and nearly all of Nemo's sleeping bags, is the wider cut through the torso area down to the knees. Like the Therm-a-Rest Questar above, this bag is almost a hybrid of a mummy bag and your father's good old 1970s square sleeping bag. Which is to say, this bag is roomy. The downside is that there's more dead space your body has to heat, but as someone who sleeps warm anyway, I'll take the extra room.

• Comfort rating: 30°F / -1.1°C

A sleeping bag is typically one of the most expensive pieces of camping gear you'll buy. If none of our picks strike your fancy, here are some general guidelines.

Are you car camping? Thru-hiking the PCT? Headed out overnight in the August heat? Plotting a winter ski traverse of the Karakoram Himalaya? Which sleeping bag is right for you depends on how you're going to use it, especially the temperatures you plan to camp or backpack in, and how you sleep—hot, cold, in between.

Unfortunately, there isn't an ideal sleeping bag that works in all climates. If you encounter a wide range of conditions in your camping, I would consider two bags. Get one nice down bag for colder conditions and a cheaper, lightweight synthetic-fill bag for summer use.

As with most things in the outdoor world, you're going to pay more for lightweight materials, so if you don't need them because, for example, you're just car camping, don't pay extra for an ultralight bag. Maybe don't even pay for a down bag. Synthetic bags are generally the best budget sleeping options for those camping in the heat.

By the same token, if you're primarily a summer hiker, doing the Appalachian Trail in sections, you don't need a 0-degree bag. Identify your use and then look for a sleeping bag that suits you best. Also, take the temperature rating with a grain of salt. Everyone sleeps differently. I almost always sleep warm, which means I don't need a 0-degree bag in anything but the harshest situation. My colleague Adrienne So is roughly the opposite and uses a 0-degree bag in 40-degree weather. Neither one of us is “right,” we've just learned to shop around how we sleep.

There are two types of insulation used in today's sleeping bags, down feathers and synthetic fibers. Down comes primarily from geese and ducks . Synthetics range from nylon to polyester. The insulation works by creating pockets of air, either through the structure of a feather or the structure of a synthetic fiber. These pockets of air then trap your body heat, keeping it close, and you warm. The more loft there is—the more air pockets there are—the warmer you will be and the lower the sleeping bag's temperature rating will be.

In most situations, a down sleeping bag is the superior choice. It's warmer for the weight, packs smaller, and is lighter. Where down fails is when it gets wet. Wet down is generally useless—all those air pockets that trap heat are gone. Synthetics on the other hand retain more warmth when wet. No one wants to sleep in a wet sleeping bag, but if you think that's a possibility, synthetic is the way to go.

In recent years down has been challenged with what's marketed as hydrophobic or “dry down,” which is treated with water-repellent coatings that cause the feathers to repel water. In our experience testing, these bags do better than regular down when wet, and in many cases, they're as good as synthetics. The trade-off is that when dry, they don't have quite the loft of regular down. If you're worried about water and want to stick with down, hydrophobic down is the best choice.

There is also the ethical question of down. Most down is a byproduct of the food industry. The Responsible Down Standard tries to ensure that down is ethically sourced, but PETA has shown that it's far from perfect. We leave that judgment call to you, but before you rush off to buy a synthetic, remember that it involves plenty of hazardous chemicals and questionable factory working conditions.

After the type of insulation, it's worth considering these factors.

• Temperature rating:  Choose a sleeping bag rated a little bit lower than the lowest temperature you expect to encounter. If you're a three-season backpacker in the southern US, the lowest you're likely to hit is around freezing, so I'd suggest a 20-degree bag. If you sleep cold, you might go down more to 10 degrees.
• Fill power : This means how much insulation is in the bag. The higher the fill-power number the warmer the bag will be. See our fill power explainer for more information.
• Weight:  If your backpacking weight is important, you want to stay as light as you can while still staying warm. Make sure to compare bags with the same temperature rating and ideally the same fill power—otherwise, you're making an apples-to-oranges comparison.
• Design and features: Remember to consider the extras. Do you want a full-length zipper? Do you want a full hood? Or a way to strap your bag to your pad? How about stash pockets? Sleeping bags can have quite a bit of functionality beyond keeping you toasty.
• Your overall sleep setup : How effective your sleeping bag is, and how warm you stay, also depends on factors like your sleeping pad and which tent you're using. See our Best Sleeping Pads and Best Tents guides for more advice on which suits you best.
• Women’s sleeping bags : Our female testers have generally found very little difference between sleeping bags for men and those for women. Many manufacturers no longer make separate bags for women, but if that's something you want to look into, we suggest Sea to Summit, which makes a range of women's sleeping bags .

All our testing was done in the field in tents. Collectively our testers have more than 11 decades of experience in the wilderness. To test these bags, we hiked Alaskan peaks, Texas deserts, Hawaiian beaches, Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula, and a range of other locations and conditions across the country. It's a rough life, but someone has to do it. This is not to say it's all fun and games—just ask my kids who've had to lie still many a morning while I zapped around their sleeping bags with an infrared thermometer looking for cold spots.

With a mix of body types and sleeping habits, we've been able to test which bags will keep even the coldest sleepers warm and which won't make those of us who sleep hot wake up sweating. Our picks are based on first-hand experience testing in the field on real trips (alas, we don't get paid to tromp around the wilderness). We take into account the warmth, how packable a bag is, how much it weighs, and how well it stands up to life on the trail or in the trunk.

What All the Terms Mean

Probably the most common question about sleeping bags is, “What temperature-rating sleeping bag should I get?” That's a good question, answered above, but it begs another question: What do those temperature ratings mean? There are often two ratings associated with temperature: temperature rating and comfort rating.

Temperature rating is done using standardized tests overseen by the International Standards Organization (ISO), the same group that oversees things like programming languages and electrical standards. If you're in Europe, you might also see EN (European Norm) temp ratings. These are close enough to ISO ratings that you can compare them. ISO temperature ratings are done in a lab using standardized equipment under more or less ideal conditions. They also use base layers on the dummy. In the end, ISO temps are a means of comparison, but they don't mean that you will be warm at whatever temperature rating is given.

Comfort rating is more subjective. This is the temperature at which someone who sleeps cold will still feel comfortable. So if you tend to sleep cold, the comfort rating is the one to pay attention to. Incidentally, this is the rating given to most women's sleeping bags, because according to the industry, the average woman will feel colder than the average man in a bag with the same temp rating.

Beyond knowing what the terms mean, also know this: Ratings are not precise. Our advice for those heading into snowy conditions where warmth is critical is to buy a bag rated 10 to 15 degrees colder than the coldest temps you expect to encounter.

There are more types of nylon out there than anyone can keep track of, which is where the denier rating system comes from. Denier is a measure used in fabrics that is based on the linear density of a fabric. The linear density is calculated by measuring how heavy the material is (in grams) for a length of 9,000 meters. Glad we cleared that up.

Wait what? 9,000 meters of what now? It turns out there are forms of fabric so thin it helps to have that much material to get a reliable weight out of them. The important takeaway is that denier means fabric weight. The higher the number, the thicker the fabric. Fun word nerd trivia: The word denier comes from the Latin word “Denarius,” which was a Roman coin.

In the case of sleeping bags, denier ratings for the nylon used typically run in the 10D to 40D range, though I have tested a few with single-digit-denier nylon. Also, watch out for all sorts of trademarked names for fabric. These have nothing to do with how thick or durable they are, they're just marketing. In my experience, testing over two dozen sleeping bags, 10D fabric is fine for a sleeping bag so long as you don't abuse it.

We covered what hydrophobic down is above, but there are a couple of other acronyms you'll see thrown around. The main two are DWR and PFC-free. DWR stands for “durable water repellent.” This waterproofness is commonly achieved through the use of a perfluorinated compound, better known to most of us as PFC. PFC-free means the waterproof coating on the down (or sometimes the nylon as well) doesn't contain any PFCs. Alternatives include wax, silicon, and sometimes plant-based sealants. Because waterproofness isn't as critical in sleeping bags (compared to a rain jacket ), there's usually no difference between PFC-free sleeping bags and those that aren't. We try to recommend only PFC-free sleeping bags.

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45 Free Zipper Pouch Patterns for Every Skill Level

Posted: February 6, 2024 | Last updated: February 6, 2024

Learn how to sew a zipper pouch! Here are 45 of my favorite free zipper pouch patterns so you can choose the perfect one. These free sewing tutorials have step-by-step instructions with pictures in an easy-to-understand teaching style. If the pattern requires a template, it’s included to download for free.

A zipper pouch is the perfect sewing project for beginners. You’ll learn many easy ways to sew a zipper and make a lined pouch that is great for holding change, earbuds, cosmetics, jewelry, your phone, and more.

These free sewing patterns are organized, for the most part, from easy to challenging. Because the instructions are so great, I think any sewist with little experience can successfully sew even the ones near the end of the list!

Tiny Zipper Bags from 5” Squares

This is the most simple zipper pouch tutorial on the web, and to make it even easier for you, you can use pre-cut 5” squares (charm squares)! If you want a fast and easy gift or pouch for yourself, check out the Tiny Zipper Bags tutorial right now. It’s perfect for scraps too!

Easy Zipper Pouches in 2 Sizes

The easy Zipper Pouch Pattern in 2 sizes is perfect for a beginner. I’ll show you how to use your sewing machine’s zipper foot in several ways. This lined zipper pouch with tabs is so customizable – you can even add machine embroidery to make it personalized. You can also use regular dressmaking zippers (1” wide) or larger handbag zippers (with a width of 1 1/4”).

Boxy Zipper Pouches

This Boxy Zipper Pouch Pattern is easy for beginners and just right for organizing supplies, cosmetics, or small things when traveling. Thrill any of your friends with this beautiful gift. It utilizes a foam stabilizer to make it sturdy and has two small exterior pockets. The finished size is approximately 6’’ wide, 4 1/2’’ tall, and 3” deep.

Pro tip: If you make many projects with zippers, you will love zippers by the yard . You can cut any size zipper you need, or a little bit larger than you need so you can cut away the excess zipper later.

Designer Zipper Bags

Normally, a quilted zipper bag with binding on the inside would not be something a beginner would try, but many sewists who are just starting have raved about the Designer Zipper Bag video sewing course. Not only is it free, but you’ll learn lots of sewing skills by watching videos like:

• How to quilt fabric and stabilizer together
• Choosing the best needle
• Putting on a zipper presser foot
• Binding the ends of zippers
• Lining up the edge of the zipper with your quilted fabric
• Binding your seams and more!

Double Sided Pouch

This fun and easy double-sided pouch was intended to hold face masks, but since no one likes them anymore, I’ve found more ways to use it. You will, too!

Lay Flat Zipper Bags for Travel

When not being used, these storage pouches lay flat and can be folded up very small. But don’t limit them to shoes. You can put almost anything in them, making them perfect for travel or gift-giving. This project has no side seams, and the top and bottom edges are finished with binding.

Don’t be afraid to make your own fabric binding featured in some of these tutorials! I’ll show you the easiest way to bind fabric edges and seams. It gives all your pouches and small bags a professional touch.

Necktie Zipper Pouch

It can be tricky thinking of gifts to sew for a man, but how about a  zipper pouch sewn from a beloved tie ? Make treasured gifts from grandpa’s old ties.

Car Visor Organizer

Add a few extra features to your bland zipper pouch, and you have a Car Visor Organizer !

Vinyl Zipper Pouches with Ribbon

Lots of people ask for see-through zipper bags for travel, and this Ribbon and Vinyl Zipper Pouch Pattern is the easist one.

If you are worried about sewing on the vinyl… don’t be!   The tutorial contains a great technique for using tissue paper so the vinyl will move smoothly across your sewing machine bed. You might like these Tips for Sewing on Vinyl.

Dumpling Shaped Vinyl Pouches

You’ll also love these dumpling-shaped pouches made with vinyl. They are great for guys or gals – everyone in the house wants one!

Big Vinyl and Fabric Pouch

Add straps and pockets to a large vinyl zipper pouch and get a bag perfect for taking to the airport! Check out this See-Through Tote .

Pro tip: It’s just fine to cut vinyl with your rotary cutter, plus it makes a nice straight edge.

Drawstring Backpack with a Zippered Pocket

My kids are teenagers and young adults, but they still love the drawstring backpacks I make. This backpack with a zippered pocket is especially handy for travel.

Candy Zipper Pouches

Zipper pouches made from candy packages were popular before and are now in style again! Some preparation is necessary to make the candy package suitable for sewing, but after that it can make a sturdy  pouch  or small bag.

Travel Jewelry Organizer

Travel handmade with this beautiful jewelry organizer that you can sew with just 3 fat quarters!

Peek-a-Boo Pouches

The Peek-A-Boo Pouch is perfect for packing sewing supplies on the go or for a small first aid kit. Use cute lining fabrics because they will show, too!

Clever Circle Pouches

Erin’s free zipper pouch pattern is easy to sew and great for holding earbuds, cash, and change, earrings that I must take out because they hurt my ears, doggie bags when I take Lola for a walk, and all kinds of items! Don’t miss the tips I shared from my experience with this pattern.

Quilted iPad Case

Did you know you can sew your own padded iPad Case ? This pattern is especially easy if you have already taken the free Designer Zipper Bag video course I linked to previously. In those videos, I show you how to bind the seam allowances (as you see in the picture) in great detail.

DIY Scarf with a Phone Pocket

What’s better than a cozy fleece scarf? A cozy fleece scarf with a cell phone pocket ! This one has a money pocket, too, that is not see-through like the phone pocket.

Phone Case and Card Wallet

This zipper pouch is also a cardholder, phone pouch, and wallet! Don’t miss the DIY Phone Case and Wallet Pattern .

Yarn Project Bag

Take your crochet and knitting projects on the go with a Yarn Project Pouch (or bag) ! If you don’t make yarn crafts, I bet you know someone who does.

Tiny Zipper Pouches You Can Sew with Scraps

You have so many options when sewing this DIY zippered coin purse . Make one with leftover fabrics and no extra hardware or fussy cut a cute motif from your fabric like this pink Tula Pink raccoon pouch.

Pro tips: I love all the new handbag zippers you can get on Amazon now with pretty zipper pulls! This pouch has fusible interfacing to help it hold that cute shape.

Long Pencil Pouches

The construction techniques on this Long Pencil Pouch Pattern are different than what you might have seen before. I streamlined the number of steps by fusing craft felt to the wrong side of the pretty cotton fabric to create a stable layer that would not need a lining.

You can also use cork fabric, vinyl, or marine vinyl instead of the outer fabric and skip the felt stabilizer.

Double Sided Zips

The Double-Sided Zip Pattern is a popular lined zipper pouch tutorial. You can use this pouch for so many purposes! The zipper tabs are perfect for attaching to a key chain. The seam allowances on this pouch are hidden inside the lining (not bound).

Pro tip: The topstitching on items like this helps keep the lining pieces from getting caught in the zipper teeth. Lengthen your sewing machine stitches for a pretty look.

Chapstick Holder

Cold, dry winters make your lips chapped! This cute chapstick holder helps keep lip balm handy all the time.

Pillbox Pouch

The Pillbox Pouch has a boxy and flat shape, but don’t let its 1” depth fool you… it can hold a lot of stuff! In this one, I stuffed a bunch of small Aurifil thread spools.

Christmas Stocking Zipper Pouch

Here’s a free sewing pattern to use up all those cute holiday scraps! This little Christmas stocking zipper pouch is just the right size for a handful of treats – plus , it makes a great gift card holder.

Best Zipper Pouch Patterns for Back to School or Work

This easy zipper pouch sewing pattern with a clip on the side has so many purposes that I’ll never be able to count them all. Clip one on a backpack with pencils and school supplies. Clip another to your bag to hold your phone. Then sew another to hold your hand-sewing kit while on road trips!

Zipper Pouch for a 3-Ring Binder

Sew up a cute pencil pouch that fits in a 3-ring binder. You can make one BETTER than the pencil pouches they sell in the store. You only need a little fabric, a zipper, and some leftover vinyl.

3-Ring Zipper Pouch with Grommets

Here, I’ll show you how to do a mash-up of the previous two patterns to make a 3-ring binder pencil pouch with grommets and mesh (or vinyl)!

Slide Down Pencil Pouch

Sew a Stand Up (and slide down) Pencil and Tool Pouch ! This handy zipper pouch extends tall to hold pens, pencils, scissors, and other items. Then, when you need to use it, the top slides down for easy access.

Zola Pen Case

When the Zola Pen Case is unzipped, it opens all the way so you can see all your stuff! When it is zipped, it makes a cute little rectangular box. The end of the zipper snaps to the bottom of the case to make the handle. This pattern includes a free downloadable template.

Chubby Lunch Tote

Lunch will be more fun with the adorable Chubby Lunch Tote ! The finished dimensions of this tote are approximately 7” tall (not including the handles), 8” wide, and 6” deep (front to back). It’s a great size to carry your lunch, but that doesn’t mean that it has to be a lunch bag. You can just as easily substitute fusible fleece for the insulated batting and use it as a small purse or zippered container.

Zipper Pouches that are Also a Purse!

This bigger Boxy Zipper Bag Pattern can be made with or without bag hardware. Add handles to make a purse or D-rings and a strap to make a cross-body bag.

Triple Zipper Bag

The Triple Zipper Bag has three zippers on the exterior, plus another zipper on a coin pocket inside. Of course, if you don’t want to use it like a bag, you can leave off the tabs and strap.

Easy Zipper Bag Using Fabric Strips

Sew a cute zipper bag using 2 1/2″ jelly roll strips! The size is perfect for carrying your phone and wallet. But I must admit that as soon as I had sewn the first one for myself, my 8-year-old daughter Cadie took it for herself! I had to make a couple more so every girl in the house could have one.

Can you believe these are back in style again? Sew your own fanny pack (a.k.a. hip bag, sling bag, waist wallet, belt bag) with two zippered compartments using your favorite fabric and the same easy sewing techniques that I have used on my other patterns.

Clamshell Pouch

Do you want a beautiful bag or a fancy purse? This free Clamshell Bag Pattern helps you make both!

What happens when you add handles and pockets to a zipper pouch? You get the Tiny Zipper Bag ! All your favorite fabric scraps are screaming to be sewn into a super cute tiny bag! 

Organizing and Decorating Your Home

You’ll love this tutorial for a boxy pouch or cosmetic case that opens nice and wide for filling – and then you can snap down the cute corners!

Twice as Nice Zippered Organizer

Sew a double-sided pouch to help you organize your makeup, sewing and craft items, art supplies, travel necessities, and more! This zippered case has two angled compartments that hold more than they appear to. Plus, the inside of the pockets is sewn with vinyl, so you can easily see what’s inside.

Dumpling Style Zipper Pouch

Here’s another dumpling-style zipper pouch that’s the perfect size for sewing supplies, cosmetics, or pens and pencils. It has a flat bottom to help it stand up. The zipper ensures that your things are kept securely.

This pattern (like most of the free sewing patterns on this page) is fat quarter-friendly!

Fabric and Vinyl Project Bags

This zippered bag with a vinyl front is perfect for organizing your hand-sewing work, unfinished quilt blocks, or embroidery projects to take on the go. My quilted handle technique is new – you won’t see it elsewhere! Don’t miss the free  Project Pouch Pattern.

Pretty Box Pouch

This Pretty Box Pouch is perfect for holding and organizing cosmetics, sewing supplies, jewelry, small toys, crayons, chocolate candies, and more!

I would rate this project ‘intermediate level’ for a sewist who is comfortable using the zipper foot on her/his machine and has hopefully applied binding before (the binding is probably the trickiest part).

Mesh Wash Bag

Bras and underwear last much longer if you put them in a mesh wash bag before the washing machine. Let me show you how easy it is to make one!

Bean Bag Toy Holder

The biggest zippered item in your home can hold stuffed animals and be used as a bean bag chair !

Sturdy Storage Tote

Another way to make a zipper pouch big enough for home storage is the DIY Sturdy Storage Tote . I keep towels and quilts inside these in my closet.

DIY Pool Chair Cover with Pocket Pouches

Sew a couple of pouches, add them to a pool towel, and you get a DIY Pool Chair Cover ! This is one of my favorite projects because it is just so clever.

DIY Garment Bag

I had more ideas for this post, but I wasn’t sure if a really big project could still be called a pouch. Like a pretty DIY garment bag ? Or a big, easy tote ? You tell me!

More from SewCanShe

• 35 Fast and Easy Free Bag Patterns for the Ultimate Bag Lover

Sew Like Grandma!

• 15 Sewing Projects Grandma Would Make

23 Free Three-Yard Quilt Patterns

• 23 Beautiful 3-Yard Quilt Patterns: All Free!

Best Sewing Machines for a Beginner

Start sewing with the best machine to fit your needs.

• 7 Best Sewing Machines for a Beginner

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• 7 Easy Ways to Finish a Quilt With Straight Line Quilting!
• 20 Adorable Gifts to Sew for a Newborn Baby

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14 best travel carriers for dogs, according to editor reviews

We’re celebrating National Pet Week at NBC Select by sharing our favorite pet products. Shop puppy supplies , kitten essentials and more on our pets homepage .

We all want our dogs by our side as much as possible, and that might include them tagging along on vacations and holiday trips. But traveling with a pet usually involves a range of safety considerations, including gathering the right health paperwork , keeping treats and water on hand and making sure they’re comfortable. Since most airlines and other transportation methods will require taking your dog in some kind of enclosure, the pet carrier you choose is crucial in keeping your dog safe and comfortable. 

We spoke to veterinarians, vet technicians and travel safety experts about what to look for in a travel carrier for your dog and how to shop for one that’ll keep them safe. We also compiled a list of carriers either tested by NBC Select staff or recommended by our experts to consider.

SKIP AHEAD Best dog travel carriers | How to shop for a dog travel carrier | How to help your dog feel calm in a travel carrier

Selected. Our top picks

How we picked the best dog travel carriers

When shopping for the best travel carrier for your dog, our experts recommend considering the following factors:

• Size: Pick a carrier that’s big enough for your pet to comfortably stand, sit, lie down and turn around in. The carrier should be as long as the tip of the dog’s nose to the base of the tail, says veterinarian Dr. Kristen L. Nelson . Carriers will usually come in a variety of sizes to fit different breed types (though keep in mind that airline-approved carriers have very specific dimension requirements that will usually only fit small dogs under 20 pounds, according to our experts). 
• Materials and build: Carriers are usually soft-sided and made of polyester or nylon, which are easy to clean and water- and tear-resistant, according to our experts. Choose one with mesh sides to provide a good amount of ventilation. Most importantly, you should opt for a carrier that can stand up on its own and not collapse around your pet or deform easily, says Dr. Christina Carlo , a veterinarian and medical director at VCA Avondale Veterinary Hospital. Hard plastic carriers are usually designed for airplane cargo holds, but they’re a safe and durable option for car rides, too, says Carlo.
• Airline requirements: Commercial airlines will usually have certain dimension requirements for carriers that go in the plane’s cabin (with the passenger) and crates that travel in the cargo area of the plane. Most airlines like United Airlines , Jetblue and American Airlines have varying dimension requirements, so be sure to visit their site before traveling. 
• Crash testing: Look for carriers and crates that have undergone independent crash testing by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS), which gives your pet the best possible chance of survival if a crash occurs, says Dr. Wendy Hauser , a veterinarian and special advisor to ASPCA Pet Health Insurance.

Best dog travel carriers of 2024

Below are the best dog travel carriers based on experts’ guidance and NBC Select staff experience. We also include top-rated options and key factors to consider, including the carrier’s material, weight capacity and dimensions. 

Best overall travel carrier: Away The Pet Carrier

Away Pet Carrier

• CPS certified
• Mesh sides and top
• Removable and washable bedding
• Recommended for smaller dogs

This Away travel carrier, an NBC Select Pet Award for best overall travel carrier, is designed for both car and airline travel. It has zip openings on the top and front with see-through mesh to help your pet see out of the carrier (if you prefer to avoid this, there’s a piece of fabric that rolls down to cover their view).

I use this carrier to fly with my 16-pound havanese and bichon frise mix, Bella, because it’s sturdy and makes her feel safe and supported thanks to its durable nylon and leather construction. The mesh gives her enough visibility to know what’s going on outside and helps me keep tabs on her, too. It also comes with machine-washable bedding on the inside that’s soft to the touch, and multiple pockets that keep my belongings and pet essentials accessible during the whole flight. If you’re traveling by car, the carrier has latches on one side that securely fasten to a car’s seat belt system. The Away carrier comes in black and blue colors and you can also personalize it with your initials for an additional $35.

Pet weight: Up to 18 lbs | Dimensions (LxWxH): 18.7 x 10.8 x 10.75 in. | Material: Water-resistant nylon

Best airline-approved carrier: Sherpa Pet Carrier

Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier

• More affordable option
• Very well ventilated
• Removable and washable liner
• Recommended for smaller pets

Another NBC Select Pet Awards winner, this Sherpa carrier is a favorite of CPS founder Lindsey Wolko, who has used it for years to travel with her own pets. She specifically recommends it for air travel because it fits under the passenger seat (it meets the dimensions for most airlines, but always check your specific airline’s requirements before traveling) and has a large zip pocket to store pet supplies like water bowls, leashes and treats. However, it’s not the best pick for car travel because you can’t strap it in using your vehicle’s seat belt system — you’re better off placing it on the floor behind the driver’s seat for safety and to avoid the stitching or zippers to fail, says Wolko. 

NBC Select manager of editorial operations Shari Uyehara uses this carrier to fly with her 20-pound cavalier King Charles spaniel, Loki, and says it’s a great affordable option. Loki can comfortably shift positions during the flight, and the carrier itself is structured enough to maintain its shape while under the seat, says Uyehara. The sides are made of see-through mesh that allows your pet to easily see out of it. Available in medium and large sizes, the carrier also has shorter top handles and a longer shoulder strap to fit your carrying preferences. 

Pet weight: Up to 16 lbs | Dimensions: 17 x 11 x 10.5 in. (medium size) | Material: Polyester and mesh

Best hard-sided carrier for cargo: Gunner Kennel G1

Gunner Kennel G1

• Can't be used as carry-on

This crate earned a 5-star safety rating from the CPS in both the crate and carrier class (the only product to earn a dual certification), and it’s a favorite among our experts. The crate has a thick exterior layer for impact protection, which keeps your pet safe if there’s a crash or a fall, according to the brand. Its reversible door design with an aluminum frame lets you open the crate from either side, and won’t pop open in the middle of a flight, according to the brand. It comes in four sizes — small, medium, intermediate and large — and Gunner offers a size guide that gives recommendations based on your dog’s weight and length.

Pet weight: Up to 30 lbs for small, up to 45 lbs for medium, up to 75 lbs for intermediate and up to 110 lbs for large size | Dimensions: 24.5 x 18.625 x 19 in. (small), 29.5 x 20.5 x 23.5 in. (medium), 34 x 23 x 28.5 in. (intermediate), 40.25 x 28 x 33.25 in. (large) | Material: Reinforced aluminum frame

Best soft-sided carrier: EliteField Soft-Sided Dog & Cat Carrier Bag

EliteField Soft-Sided Dog & Cat Carrier Bag

At just over two pounds, this is the most lightweight soft-sided pet carrier on our list. It comes recommended by Dr. Amber Karwacki , a veterinarian and partner doctor at Heart + Paw in Callowhill, Pennsylvania, because it has mesh panels on both sides and the front to let air in and prevent your pet from overheating, according to the brand. It also comes with removable and machine-washable bedding and has a back sleeve that attaches to your suitcase, as well as loops that latch onto your car’s seat belt system. The polyester and synthetic build is water-resistant and available in six colors to fit your personal style. 

Pet weight: Up to 18 lbs | Dimensions: 19 x 10 x 13 in. | Material: Polyester

Best tote carrier: Wild One Everyday Carrier

Wild One Everyday Carrier

• Remains open

If you’re looking for a tote to carry your dog around town or on the train, consider this Wild One carrier. This NBC Select staff-favorite option has a small dip in its design, which allows your dog to peek their head out while you carry them around. “I love that Loki’s weight remains balanced in the carrier, but he still has room to move around,” says Uyehara, who appreciates its stability. It also includes a safety clip that attaches to your dog’s harness, ensuring they won’t jump out at a bad time, according to Karwacki (but be sure to never connect this clip to their collar since it poses a choking hazard). It also comes with carrying straps of two different lengths — one for carrying it like a shoulder bag, and shorter straps to carry it by hand. There is a machine-washable mat on the inside and three exterior pockets to hold all your pet’s essentials like bags, treats and toys.

Pet weight: Up to 20 lbs | Dimensions: 21.5 x 7.5 x 14.25 in. | Material: Recycled polyester outer, cotton interior

Best collapsible carrier: Roverlund Out-Of-Office Pet Carrier

Roverlund Pet Carrier

An NBC Select Pet Awards winner, the small version of this Roverlund carrier is an airline-approved option for both dogs and cats because it’s less than 18 inches long. The straps are all ropes, which our staff found to be more comfortable and supportive than other carrier straps made from typical polyester or fabric. The interior lining is machine-washable and you can also shop the larger version of this carrier for dogs up to 25 pounds.

Pet weight: Up to 20 lbs | Dimensions: 17 x 11 x 10.5 in. (small size) | Material: Water-resistant polyester, mountain climbing rope

Best backpack carrier: Apollo Walker Pet Carrier Backpack

Apollo Walker Pet Carrier Backpack

• Adjustable straps
• Pet can see outside

This highly rated backpack carrier, which has a 4.6-star average rating from over 4,900 reviews on Amazon, has shoulder straps and two separate straps that buckle around your sternum and waist to help evenly distribute the weight of your pet, according to the brand. It has mesh panels on all sides to let your pet see out and comes with removable fleece bedding to keep them comfortable while creating a sturdy base that can hold their weight, according to Apollo. It also comes with a clip that attaches to your pet’s harness to prevent them from escaping or falling out.

Pet weight: N/A | Dimensions: 12.6 x 11.4 x 16.8 in. | Material: Polyester

Best expandable carrier: Midwest Duffy Dog & Cat Carrier

MidWest Duffy Dog & Cat Carrier

• No removable bedding
• Not as ventilated as others

This Midwest Duffy carrier comes recommended by Karwacki because it’s expandable — the mesh sides open up to give your pet more room to move around and stretch their legs. It has two zippered side openings, as well as one on top to make taking your dog in and out easier, according to the brand. It also folds completely flat, so you can store it away when it’s not in use. It comes in three colors and sizes small, medium and large. 

Pet weight: Up to 15 lbs | Dimensions: 16.3 x 10.1 x 9.3 in. (small), 18.3 x 11.3 x 11.1 in. (medium) and 19.3 x 12.2 x 12.2 in. (large) | Material: Polyester

Best carrier for medium-sized dogs: Arlo Skye The Pet Carrier

Arlo Skye The Pet Carrier

• No mesh top

This Arlo Skye pet carrier has mesh panels on all sides, making it a well-ventilated option for your pup. It comes with memory foam bedding on the inside that’s both removable and machine-washable, as well as a foldable design you can pack easily in your suitcase or travel bag, according to the brand. It has dual openings on both ends and a back trolley sleeve to place it over your carry-on . The carrier is also highly rated with a 4.9-star average rating from over 60 reviews at Arlo Skye. 

Pet weight: Up to 25 lbs | Dimensions: 17.5 x 11 x 10 in. | Material: Poly-mesh and nylon

Best carrier for small dogs: Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed

Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed

The Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed is an expert-recommended and CPS-certified option that has breathable mesh and a machine-washable interior — it’s built for plane travel for dogs under 15 pounds. Nelson recommends the Sleepypod because it’s easy to carry and gives the pet privacy while traveling since it’s fully enclosed with a mesh panel at the top.

Like several other carriers on this list, the Sleepypod isn’t limited to airline travel: It straps into a vehicle’s seat belt system, so you can comfortably take road trips with your pet. You can also separate the bottom of the carrier to transform it into a bed for your pet, which makes training easier since they can form a positive association with it, says Wolko. The brand’s Sleepypod Atom is another CPS-certified carrier that’s crash-tested for even smaller dogs up to 12 pounds, the lowest weight requirement on this list. 

Pet weight: Up to 15 lbs | Dimensions: 17 in. (D) x 6.5 in. | Material: Polyester

Best lightweight carrier: Molly and Stitch Alpine Dog Carrier

Molly and Stitch Alpine Dog Carrier

• Stylish design
• Padded and comfortable
• Machine-washable
• Not for plane travel

This tote carrier is great for smaller dogs, and its lightweight design is convenient to take anywhere. It's a favorite of NBC Select social commerce editor Sadhana Daruvuri, who says her 2-year-old maltipoo Bandit fits comfortably inside. “This carrier is very high quality, and it was so stylish that I would happily use it as an everyday bag,” says Daruvuri. “Cleaning it is also easy — you can just throw it in the wash, and even after repeated uses, the bag looks brand new.” 

Pet weight: Up to 15 lbs | Dimensions: n/a | Material: n/a

Best carrier with pee pad: Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier

Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier

• Includes a bed and pee pad
• Has multiple pocket
• Not as much mesh as others

Diggs is an NBC Select Pet Award -winning brand that makes some of our favorite dog crates. The brand’s Passenger Travel Carrier is great for both plane and car travel: It fits many airlines’ size requirements, and it has custom seat belt clips and a buckle strap to place it safely in your car. It also comes with a Diggs Pee Pad that attaches to the included bed — if your dog chooses to use it, you can open the side panel to swap it out without disrupting your pup, according to the brand.

Pet weight: Up to 18 lbs | Dimensions: 20 x 11.5 x 10.8 | Material: n/a

Best personalizable carrier: Paravel Cabana Pet Carrier

Paravel Cabana Carrier

• Personalizable with name
• Folds flat for easy storage

If you’re looking for a personalized option, this Paravel pet carrier — which is the dog-friendly version of the brand’s original Cabana Tote — lets you monogram your pup’s name or initials in the color of your choosing. It also has a washable fleece interior lining, comes with several pockets for storing treats and other small essentials, and it folds completely flat for easy storage. 

Pet weight: Up to 20 lbs | Dimensions: 11 x 20.5 x 11 in. | Material: Paravel EcoCraft Canvas, vegan leather

Best sling carrier: Tomkas Dog Sling Carrier

Tomkas Dog Sling Carrier

• Easy to take on the go
• Zip pockets for small items
• Requires physical strength

Designed for small dogs up to 10 pounds, this sling carrier crosses over your body so you can take your dog around town hands-free. The base has a built-in drawstring that adjusts the size of the opening to fit different sized dogs, and the crossbody strap length is also adjustable to fit your comfort level. The carrier includes a safety buckle inside that connects to your dog’s harness to prevent them from falling out, according to the brand. I purchased this carrier for my dog Bella when she was a puppy, and I was able to comfortably carry her around when she got tired of walking. It held her weight well without tearing or damaging the fabric, and the crossbody strap caused less strain on my back.

Pet weight: Up to 10 lbs | Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 3 in. | Material: Polyester

How to shop for a dog travel carrier

Carriers and crates are the most secure type of enclosure when traveling with your dog because they prevent them from escaping and minimize distraction while you’re traveling (especially while driving), says Wolko. But the right carrier for your dog will depend on what type of trip you’re taking, your method of transportation and their temperament. 

When shopping for the right carrier for your dog, our experts recommend considering the size and fit of the enclosure, whether it’s crash-tested, if it meets airline requirements and more.

Your dog or cat should be able to easily stand up, turn around and lay comfortably in their carrier. That means the length of your carrier from front to back should measure about the same, or one or two inches more than the tip of your dog’s nose to the base of their tail, says Nelson. You should add a few more inches for brachycephalic breeds like pugs, pekingese and French bulldogs, though experts don’t recommend taking these breeds on flights because their shorter noses increase the risk of overheating and oxygen deprivation, says Nelson (some airlines even ban this breed from flying in the cargo hold , according to the American Veterinary Medical Association). To determine the right height of your carrier, make sure it measures the same or larger than the height of your pet from the floor to the top of their shoulders, says Carlo.

Place a mat or bed in the carrier to make the space more comfortable for your pet, says Carlo (though you should avoid this if your dog usually destroys their bedding because they might eat the pieces and cause intestinal obstruction). Putting soft blankets or their favorite toy in the carrier can also help them feel familiar and safe, according to our experts.

Whether your dog can see out of their carrier is a matter of personal preference, though our experts recommend mesh so the outside is visible, which prevents your dog from feeling threatened or confused while they’re traveling, says Wolko. 

Materials and structure

Most carriers are soft-sided and made from materials like polyester, mesh and nylon fabric. Consider whether the carrier has structure, meaning it can stand up on its own and won’t automatically collapse around your pet, according to Carlo. You should also look for carriers that have pockets, so you have room for your pet supplies.

You can take a hard-sided, non-collapsible crate or kennel on an airplane, but they must be able to fit under the passenger’s seat, according to Hauser (this might be harder to do compared to soft-sided carriers since they don’t mold to a different size). Plastic hard-sided crates are usually good for transporting your pet in an airplane cargo hold and the cargo area of a car — they’re considered to be the safest option since they won’t lose their shape and provide impact protection in case of a crash, turbulence or hard fall, according to our experts. However, you should avoid metal wire crates because pets might be able to stick their feet or limbs out, which can be a safety hazard while traveling, says Karwacki.

Safety considerations

For car travel, look for carriers and crates that have undergone crash testing by the Center for Pet Safety, a registered nonprofit and advocacy organization that crash tests car restraints and containment devices. This provides an extra layer of safety when traveling with your pet, our experts say.

“Most carriers on the market only prevent distractions [for the driver], which is important, but in a crash, they may not perform as you would expect them to,” says Wolko. The CPS certification tests carriers as an unaffiliated third party. This is important when considering that many brands subjectively “pass” their carriers if they test them in their own labs, which can ultimately give pet owners a false sense of security, according to Wolko.

Though the CPS does not specifically test carriers and crates for airline travel, you can use most carriers that meet the airline’s size requirements and have ample ventilation, according to Wolko.

A CPS-certified crate usually has backup door latches and locking mechanisms to prevent your pet from escaping, which is especially useful if they travel in the aircraft’s cargo hold. “So, if something tumbles, the kennel is so robust that the pet is not getting out,” says Wolko. Most airlines have certain regulations for what carriers to use when transporting an animal in the cargo area of a plane. The International Air Transport Association, a globally recognized trade association for the world’s airlines, details specific requirements for crates to transport animals in the cargo hold, including construction and adequate ventilation (more on that below).

Frequently Asked Questions

For air travel, always check with your airline to see what type and size of carrier it allows. The approved dimensions of your carrier vary from airline to airline but, in most cases, carriers can’t exceed 11 inches in height, which allows it to fit under the seat in front of the passenger, according to Hauser. Also, the carrier will likely count as your carry-on luggage on most airlines, and in-cabin travel will usually require you to make a reservation or reserve a seat specifically for your dog.

Certain airlines might also have specific pet size and weight requirements for in-cabin travel. Typically, pets must weigh 20 pounds or less, though this varies by airline, and most larger dogs can’t ride in-cabin unless they’re a trained service animal, says Wolko. If your pet exceeds that limit, they’ll need to travel in the cargo area of the plane.

Most airlines will allow trained service dogs on board at no cost. However, some airlines like Delta Air Lines, Southwest, American Airlines and Alaska Air are no longer accepting emotional support animals on board.

Carriers and crates for dogs are usually used interchangeably, but there are a few key differences. The CPS defines crates as enclosures that are secured in the cargo area of a plane or tethered securely to the floor of a vehicle like a van or SUV. They’re usually constructed of thick molded plastic or metal and designed for larger dogs, according to our experts.

Carriers, on the other hand, are usually designed for smaller dogs and made of a soft-sided fabric (though some are constructed of a harder plastic or nylon to prevent them from collapsing on your pet). When traveling in a car, the carrier usually goes in the backseat and is strapped in using the seatbelt system of your vehicle.

Yes, it is generally safe and common to travel with your dog in the cargo hold (also known as the lower deck) of an airplane, which also holds baggage. However, experts recommend only flying your pet in the cargo hold when it’s absolutely necessary because it can be a very stressful experience for them.

“There’s a lot of weird noises, not much light down there — it’d be scary for anyone to go in the [cargo hold], ” says Karwacki. And, most handling risks come before they even board the plane: Dogs usually endure the most force when being transported across the rough, uneven tarmac to get to the plane, says Wolko.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) lists specific requirements for crates, including construction and ventilation, to keep your pet safe when flying in the cargo hold. For example, the trade association specifies that crates must be sturdy and inescapable and adequately ventilated on three sides, with the majority of the ventilation being provided on the upper part of the container.

Most aircraft cargo holds are temperature-controlled and pressurized, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture . Animals can’t be exposed to temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit or below 45 degrees Fahrenheit for more than 4 hours, per the USDA’s website. Most airlines won’t transport dogs altogether if ground temperatures reach those extremes.

How to help your dog feel calm in a travel carrier

Your pet’s comfort level in their carrier can determine how smooth your travels are. Below, we list a few expert tips about how to get your dog adjusted to their carrier and how to keep them comfortable during long trips.

• Know your dog’s safety and security preferences. Some dogs prefer more open-sided kennels with better airflow and visibility, while others feel safer with the cave-like security of a molded plastic carrier with smaller windows, says Hauser.
• Make the carrier or crate their “happy spot.” Allowing your pet to build a positive association with their carrier helps them feel calm and safe while traveling, according to our experts. In your home and before traveling, leave the door open so that your pup can explore the enclosure on their own terms, which demystifies it, says Hauser. After some time, it isn’t uncommon to find pets that preferentially sleep in their enclosures,” she says. Once they get acclimated to the crate or carrier at home, you can then graduate to car trips and, later on, plane rides. Start off with brief trips that increase in duration over time.
• Make the carrier feel familiar. As we mentioned, putting their favorite bed, blankets or toys in the carrier can help make them feel more comfortable.
• Avoid any safety risks while on the plane. For example, if you’re traveling with your pet in-cabin, never put the carrier in the overhead compartment of the plane with your pet inside because it poses a suffocation risk, says Wolko. Also, feed your pet before you get on the plane — if they choke or get something lodged in their throat while you’re in the air, they likely won’t get help in time, according to Wolko.

Meet our experts

At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

• Dr. Kristen L. Nelson is a veterinarian and author of “Coated With Fur: A Vet’s Life.”
• Dr. Christina Carlo is a veterinarian and medical director at VCA Avondale Veterinary Hospital.
• Dr. Wendy Hauser is a veterinarian and special advisor to ASPCA Pet Health Insurance.
• Lindsey Wolko is the founder of the Center for Pet Safety , a registered nonprofit and advocacy organization that crash-tests car restraints and containment devices for pets.
• Dr. Amber Karwacki is a veterinarian and partner doctor at Heart + Paw in Callowhill, Pennsylvania.

Why trust NBC Select?

Mili Godio is an updates editor at NBC Select who covers a variety of pet topics, including dog food , beds , treats and toys . For this article, Godio spoke to five veterinarians and pet safety experts about the best carriers for your dog and how to safely travel with them. She also compiled experts' recommendations for the best travel carriers to consider, as well as travel carriers tested and reviewed by NBC Select staff.

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.

Mili Godio is an updates editor for Select on NBC News.

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This Glittery Setting Spray Might Not Be a Gimmick

This essay first appeared on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, in  The Strategist Beauty Brief ,  a weekly newsletter in which our beauty writers share their must-tries, can-skips, and can’t-live-withouts. But we liked it so much we wanted to share it with all of our readers. If you want more first impressions of buzzy launches, quick takes on what’s trending on TikTok and Instagram, and deep dives into the week’s best beauty launches, sign up  here .  The Strategist Beauty Brief  is delivered every Wednesday.

I’m a sucker for movie tie-in makeup collections — so I knew I’d be trying  Wicked’s  One/Size beauty collaboration as soon as I heard about it. Included in the limited-edition product drop was a product I was particularly interested in, though:  a glittery version  of the brand’s  best-selling setting spray  (the spray is currently sold out, but you can sign up  here  for updates on a restock).   Longtime Beauty Brief subscribers will know I have a special interest in products that make my  skin sparkle .

For locking my makeup in place and giving it some added glow, I’ll always use a setting spray. But One/Size spray is one I’d never felt particularly drawn to. That’s because it’s a famously mattifying product, and I prefer dewy products, like the setting spray from  Iconic London . One of the things I like the most about the Iconic London setting spray is that it contains teeny light-reflecting particles that, once applied, leave a shimmering glow on the skin. That made me wonder: How shimmering could my skin look if those tiny particles were specks of glitter instead?

Holding the product ten inches away from my face (as per the instructions on the candyfloss-pink bottle), I applied a thorough coating to my finished makeup. Now, let me tell you: This stuff dries  fast.  I’m used to wafting a fan over my face to set my spray, but the One/Size setting spray had dried to a completely matte finish within a matter of seconds. I’m used to a dewy finish, so I was a little shocked, but my skin didn’t feel dry whatsoever. (If you’re on the drier side like me, though, I think the key here is good skin prep, and slightly less setting powder than usual.)

As it was drying, I noticed a really divine, fresh, light aroma from the spray — and then turned to the mirror for the true reveal. I’d been apprehensive that it might come out like glitter sprays my mum used to drench me in before dance competitions — but I didn’t need to worry. As I tilted my head from side to side, and the flecks of cool toned glitter caught the sunlight, I breathed a sigh of relief. I was definitely sparkling, but I hadn’t entered into the dreaded “This is the skin of a killer, Bella” territory.

After five or ten minutes, I’d acclimatized to the more matte feel of the setting spray, and I set off to meet my friends at the pub. As the sunlight faded, the glitter became even more obvious under synthetic lights. It was definitely noticeable — one of my friends asked if I’d put glitter on — but not so dramatic that I felt overdone. And my makeup absolutely did not budge an inch — I mean not whatsoever. I’m used to my liquid blush fading with the evening, but by the time I got home after three or four hours, I looked as freshly made up as I did when I left the house.

I’ve since played with the distance at which I apply the spray, and the effect is as you’d expect: If you go a little closer, the glitter is a little stronger. For raves and festivals, I’ll definitely be experimenting with a closer coating of the spray — I’m 100 percent going to pack it in my makeup bag for Glastonbury. But for a night out (or casual trip to the bar, depending on how OTT you like to go), this is just a great quality, gorgeous product if you’re keen on giving your makeup a little frosting, and achieving an iridescent glow.

This article originally appeared in  The   Strategist Beauty Brief , a weekly newsletter from our beauty writers on their must-tries, can-skips, and can’t-live-withouts.  Sign up here .

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

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