What to Look for in a Tote Bag: A Practical Buying Guide
By Lo & Sons | Published: 2026-10-13
Category: Buying Guides
Learn how to choose a tote bag with the right size, straps, pockets, and materials for work, travel, and everyday use. Includes a practical decision checklist.
Quick answer
Start with your daily carry: measure your laptop, add a water bottle and a pair of shoes, then match that volume to a tote that has a dedicated laptop sleeve, a secure closure, and straps wide enough to distribute weight. For mixed work and gym days, a convertible backpack-tote with a shoe compartment solves the most common tote problems. For lighter days, a smaller tote with a bottom shoe compartment keeps you organized without bulk.
Measure your must-carry items before you shop
A tote bag size guide starts with your actual gear, not a number on a product page. Measure your laptop diagonally and add an inch for a sleeve. Then place your daily essentials—charger, notebook, water bottle, pouch—in a single pile and estimate the total volume in liters. A 23.5L bag like the rowledge-2-445664">Rowledge 2 handles a 13-inch laptop, a change of clothes, and shoes; a smaller tote like the Catalina Deluxe Tote works for a laptop, lunch, and a light layer. If you carry more than 15 liters of gear, look for a bag with a luggage pass-through or a convertible strap system.
Match the opening and closure to your commute
A wide, structured opening makes it easy to see and reach your laptop, while a zipper or flap keeps rain and subway jostling out. If you commute by car or on quiet routes, an open-top tote with a magnetic closure is faster to access. If you bike, walk through crowds, or travel, prioritize a zippered main compartment and a water-resistant laptop sleeve. The Rowledge 2 and O.G. 2 both include a water-resistant laptop sleeve and a shoe compartment, which keeps dirty soles away from clean clothes and electronics.
Choose straps that carry weight without pain
Flat, thin straps cut into your shoulder when the bag is loaded. Look for padded or rolled handles at least 1.5 inches wide, and consider a convertible design that lets you wear the bag as a backpack when the load gets heavy. The Rowledge 2 has nappa leather handles and converts from tote to backpack, which changes the pressure point on long days. If you prefer a single carry style, test the drop length: the bag should sit under your arm without hitting your hip, and the handles should clear a winter coat.
Count pockets for the way you actually pack
A tote bag strap and pocket guide is less about having many pockets and more about having the right ones. You need one secure spot for your phone and keys, one sleeve for a laptop or tablet, and one compartment that can get dirty—shoes, gym clothes, or a wet umbrella. The O.G. 2 is a structured work bag with a shoe compartment, so you can separate a pair of flats from your papers. The Catalina Deluxe Tote uses a bottom shoe compartment in a smaller silhouette, which is ideal if you want that separation without a full-size weekender.
Pick a material that fits your weather and care routine
Nylon is lightweight, water-resistant, and easy to wipe clean—good for daily commutes and unpredictable weather. Eco-friendly canvas is durable and stands up to abrasion, but it can absorb stains and may need spot cleaning. Leather handles add a polished look but require occasional conditioning. If you carry a heavy load, nylon's lower weight matters more than you might expect. If you want a bag that looks sharp in a meeting, choose a structured shape and a dark color that hides scuffs.
Decision rules for your tote bag purchase
- If you carry a laptop plus gym clothes or shoes: Choose a tote with a dedicated shoe compartment and a water-resistant laptop sleeve, such as the Rowledge 2 or O.G. 2. Checkpoint: confirm the laptop sleeve fits your device's diagonal measurement.
- If you walk or bike more than 20 minutes: Prioritize a convertible backpack-tote or a bag with padded, wide straps to distribute weight. Checkpoint: test the strap drop with a loaded bag before committing.
- If you want one bag for work and travel: Look for 20L or more, a luggage pass-through, and a secure closure. The Rowledge 2 at 23.5L fits this use case. Checkpoint: ensure the bag fits under an airplane seat if you fly frequently.
- If you prefer a lighter, smaller tote for daily errands: Choose a tote like the Catalina Deluxe Tote with a bottom shoe compartment and eco-friendly canvas. Checkpoint: verify the tote holds your laptop, wallet, and water bottle without overstuffing.
- If you need a polished, structured look for meetings: Select a bag with a clean silhouette, structured base, and dark color that hides scuffs, such as the O.G. 2. Checkpoint: confirm the bag stands upright on its own when set down.
Product facts to ground your choice
- Rowledge 2 - Nylon - Deep Navy / Gold / Azure: The Rowledge 2 is a 23.5L convertible backpack-tote and 13 inch laptop bag with a shoe compartment, water-resistant laptop sleeve, and nappa leather handles. This volume and convertible carry system suit commuters who need one bag for work, travel, and workouts.
- Rowledge 2 - Nylon - Black / Gold / Camel: The Rowledge 2 is a 23.5L convertible backpack-tote and 13 inch laptop bag with a shoe compartment, water-resistant laptop sleeve, and nappa leather handles. The same functional design in a different colorway lets you match your professional wardrobe without changing the feature set.
- O.G. 2 - Nylon - Black / Silver / Lavender: The O.G. 2 is a premium laptop bag with a shoe compartment, designed for women who want polished style with everyday function. A structured work bag with a shoe compartment keeps your laptop and a change of shoes separate, so you can go from office to gym without a second bag.
- Catalina Deluxe Tote - Eco Friendly Canvas - Dark Green Colorblock: The Catalina Deluxe Tote is a smaller tote edition of the original weekender bag to popularize the bottom shoe compartment design, available in eco-friendly sustainable materials. A lighter, more sustainable option for days when you need a tote with shoe separation but not a full weekender's capacity.
Who this guide is for
Best for
- Commuters who carry a 13-inch laptop, shoes, and daily essentials in one bag
- Travelers who want a tote that doubles as a personal item and gym bag
- Anyone replacing a worn-out tote and unsure which features matter most
Not for
- Shoppers looking for a formal evening bag or clutch
- Users who need a dedicated hiking backpack with a hip belt and frame
- Buyers who want a fully open, unstructured market tote with no laptop protection
