How to Choose the Right Weekender for Weekend Trips
By Lo & Sons | Published: 2026-10-26
Category: Buying Guides
Find the perfect weekender bag for your short getaways. Compare the packable Del Mar Tote and structured Catalina Deluxe Tote to match your travel style.
Quick answer
For most weekend trips, pick the Del Mar Packable Tote if you need a lightweight, stowable bag for casual outings, or the Catalina Deluxe Tote if you want a structured bag with a dedicated shoe compartment for organized travel.
Packable vs. Structured: The Core Trade-Off
The biggest difference between these two Lo & Sons weekenders is how they handle when not in use. The Del Mar Packable Tote folds flat and stashes inside a larger suitcase or car, making it ideal for trips where you might pick up groceries or souvenirs. The Catalina Deluxe Tote keeps its shape and offers a built-in shoe compartment at the bottom, which is better for those who like to keep their clothes and shoes separate from the get-go.
Material and Durability Considerations
The Del Mar uses Tyvek, a water-resistant material that is lightweight but less structured. It's great for pool days and beach trips but won't stand up to heavy daily use. The Catalina Deluxe is made from 600D recycled polyester, a tougher fabric that handles more weight and regular travel. If you plan to use the bag frequently or carry heavier items, the Catalina is the more durable choice.
Price and Value
The Del Mar Packable Tote is significantly more affordable, especially when on sale. Its lower price reflects its simpler design and lighter materials. The Catalina Deluxe Tote costs more but includes features like a shoe compartment and more robust construction. Your budget and how often you travel will help decide which offers better value for you.
How to choose the right weekender
- What kind of trip are you taking?: For casual, spontaneous outings like a beach day or a quick overnight stay, choose the Del Mar Packable Tote. For a more planned weekend trip with multiple outfits and shoes, choose the Catalina Deluxe Tote.
- How much space do you need?: The Del Mar is a large tote but unstructured, so it can hold a lot but items may not stay organized. The Catalina Deluxe is also a large tote but has a defined shape and internal organization, making it easier to pack and access items.
- Do you need to pack the bag itself?: If you want a bag you can stash inside your luggage for extra carrying capacity on the return trip, the Del Mar's packable design is essential. If you are using the bag as your primary carry-on, the Catalina's structure is more practical. Check the airline size restrictions for your tote if you plan to use it as a carry-on.
Product facts
- Del Mar Packable Tote Large - Tyvek - Navy Fruit: A lightweight, packable tote bag for your life on-the-go. Equipped with removable pouches and a water-resistant exterior. You can fold it and store it anywhere, then pull it out for a grocery run or beach trip without needing a separate bag.
Del Mar Packable Tote Large - Tyvek - Navy Fruit - Catalina Deluxe Tote - 600D Recycled Poly - Grey: The Catalina Deluxe Tote is a smaller tote edition of the original weekender bag to popularize the bottom shoe compartment design. The dedicated shoe compartment keeps your dirty footwear away from your clothes, a feature the packable Del Mar lacks.
Catalina Deluxe Tote - 600D Recycled Poly - Grey
Which weekender fits you?
Best for
- Travelers who want a lightweight, packable bag for casual errands and spontaneous trips
- Shoppers who need an extra bag for souvenirs or groceries on the go
Not for
- Travelers who need a structured bag with dedicated shoe storage and internal organization
