What is a Tote Bag Used For? Just About Everything

What is a tote bag, and why is it so popular? What is it used for? Why do many people prefer this style of bag over any other? Let's answer some of these questions.

What is a tote bag?

According to Wikipedia, a tote bag is a large bag with parallel handles that emerge from the sides of its pouch. They are usually unfastened at the top and bigger than most other handbags.

The word tote is a colloquial term of North American English origin meaning "to carry" or "to transport". And that is precisely what tote bags are for.

A brief history

Would you believe if I told you that the first tote bags were designed to carry ice? Yes, you read that right. American brand L.L.Bean created the first tote in 1944. That year, they launched an ice bag - a sturdy, durable, water-resistant canvas bag. The brand introduced Bean's Ice Carrier to "carry ice from car to ice chest".  Why ice, you ask? In the 19th century, Maine was known for stocking a large quantity of premium ice. At that time, most American households didn't have refrigerators. So, they made the bag to solve the problem: transporting ice from the car to the freezer.

Due to the bag's sturdiness, people inevitably used it for other things, like groceries and household chores.

The first L.L.Bean tote bag (Image: global.llbean.com)

From Function to Fashion

In the 1960s, the simple tote became a fashion statement. Designers and brands started creating their own versions with different elements, such as leather handles or bottoms, zippers, and prints.

In the 1980s, tote bags were seen as marketing material when businesses realized printing logos on bags was easy and affordable. The newspaper company The Strand introduced its own design, which is still popular today. The first Strand tote was made with cotton duck canvas and an interior lining, and it boldly advertised the store's name, contact details, and slogan.

At the same time, the first designer bag was born - the Hermes Birkin bag. British actress and singer Jane Birkin used an oversized woven basket to carry around her things. Once, in an argument, her husband deliberately drove over her signature straw basket. A few days later, Birkin coincidentally found herself sitting next to Jean-Louis Dumas, the chief executive of Hermès, on an international trip from Paris to London. Her new travel bag slipped from the overhead cabinet and exploded all over the cabin. Seeing an opportunity, Dumas offered to make the fashion icon a new leather tote bag, the infamous "Birkin Bag."

The Timeless Appeal

Nowadays, we see infinite tote bag variations. From simple, fashionable, branded, affordable to high-end. But despite all the variations, the features of the original tote have persevered in all variations. The tote bag truly is a timeless piece.

Materials used to make tote bags

Today, totes can be made from various materials. Still, the main rule is that they must be durable and carry a significant weight.

The most widely used tote bags are made of canvas or nylon. Because these are easy to fold, they are perfect replacements for plastic grocery bags and are reusable, washable, and sturdy. 

On the other hand, leather or waxed canvas tote bags can replace your daily handbag of choice. Use it when you need to carry a lot without sacrificing your sense of fashion.

So, what is a tote bag used for?

Here are the seven most popular uses for a tote bag.

1. A BOOK BAG.
Whether carrying your books around campus or making a library run, a sturdy tote bag will easily hold all your books and supplies and look good doing it.

2. A DAYTIME PURSE.
Whether you're heading out on errands or need a bag to fit everything you need before you meet your pals, go for a big waxed canvas tote to make a profound style statement.

PRO TIP: Tie a scarf around the handles or customise it with your favourite pins for an instant upgrade.

3. SHOPPING BAG.
Tote bags are perfect for bringing shop-bought items home. Whether it's food from the grocery store, new wardrobe updates, or those three outdoorsy books you couldn't say no to, tote bags are durable and suitable for carrying almost anything you purchase.

4. GYM BAG.
A tote is an excellent alternative to a gym bag when you only need essentials, or you're hitting the gym right after work. It will easily fit your water bottle, towel, and a pair of sneakers. A tote bag will get the job done but won't compromise your style.

5. BEACH BAG.
Are you heading out for a day at the beach? A tote bag is a fantastic beach bag because it easily stores all essentials, from a towel and sunscreen to your favourite book.

6. TRAVEL BAG.
Bigger than a traditional handbag and smaller than a duffle, tote bags are a great overnight bag. While standard tote bags are ideal for light travel, larger versions are available for those who wish to bring more.

PRO TIP: Keep one in a car, packed with a change of clothes and a toiletry bag, so you'll always be ready for spontaneous adventures.

7. PICNIC BAG.
Picnic in a park, anyone? With a tote, you can fit all of your snacks and beverages without the weight and strain of carrying around a large basket. Picnics are easier with totes.

Maiook waxed canvas tote bag in Dark Moss

How to choose the right size for you?

There are several things you need to consider when choosing a tote bag.

Firstly, consider what you need the bag for. Here are our recommendations:

• For everyday use, choose a medium tote (around 12 x 14′′ - 30 x 35 cm to 14 x 16′′ - 35 x 41 cm ). This size is ideal for casual outings because it can comfortably hold your items without being too bulky.
• For school or work, choose a bag that will offer ample space and support for your laptop and books (16 x 18" - 41 x 46cm or larger).
• For special occasions like beach outings or shopping, consider a large tote that can hold towels, snacks, or bulkier items.

Secondly, you need to consider comfort. Larger bags can quickly become heavy, especially when fully packed. The size you pick should be comfortable for you to carry throughout the day without straining your shoulders.

Thirdly, consider style and aesthetics. The size of your tote influences its style. A sleek, medium-sized tote works well with professional attire, while larger totes may suit more casual outfits. Consider how the tote will fit into your overall wardrobe and personal style.

Lastly, consider material and durability. The material affects both the size and functionality of the tote. Heavier materials like canvas can support larger sizes, while lighter fabrics are better for smaller bags. Ensure that the bag's construction, especially the handles, can support the weight of its contents.

PRO TIP: For larger and heavier bags, select bags with handles that are reinforced with rivets or additional stitching. This construction helps prevent ripping or fraying under heavy use.

Can I use a tote bag for a weekend trip?

Absolutely, tote bags are wonderfully practical for packing your weekend trip essentials. Here are a few tips for getting the most out of your tote bag when travelling:

1. Choose the right size and material
Invest in a sturdy medium to large-sized tote bag that is approximately 15 - 18 inches (38 - 46 cm) wide. Waxed canvas is ideal for casual trips, while leather adds a touch of sophistication. Consider waterproof materials if rain is expected.

2. Use compartments, pockets and zipper pouches
Use the bag's compartments effectively to organise your belongings. Place toiletries in a dopp kit, keep travel documents and maps in an outer pocket and arrange clothing in the main compartment.

3. Roll Your Clothes
Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space and reduce wrinkles. This will allow you to fit more items into the tote and keep them organised.

4. Pack outfits together
If you organise your clothes by outfits, not by item type, you'll prevent overpacking and dressing each day will be much easier. It's revolutionary, I know.

5. Wear bulky items
To save space in your tote, wear your bulkiest clothing items, such as jackets or boots, during travel.

6. Use packing cubes and zipper pouches
Packing cubes and zipper pouches are great for organising smaller items inside the tote. Use them for undergarments and accessories to make them easier to pack and find.

7. Keep a packing checklist
Create a checklist to avoid overpacking. A checklist will help you stay organised and focused while packing. You can get a free printable travel packing list here

Eight reasons why you need a waxed canvas tote bag.

1. It's versatile. You can use it for travel, work, school, the gym, shopping, and even the beach.
2. It's durable. Waxed canvas is a robust and hard-wearing material that is resistant to tearing. Properly maintained, it will last a lifetime of adventures.
3. It's easy to carry. Sling it on your shoulder, and you're good to go. The wide opening makes it easy to access all its contents.
4. It's spacious. Whether going to the office, running errands, or going out for a fun day, totes are the ideal way to carry all your essentials. Moreover, they work well for holding larger items like books, laptops, and even exercise equipment.
5. It's easy to clean. With waxed canvas, less is more, so go easy with cleaning. A few marks, scuffs and a little dust won't harm your bag. If you get dust or dry dirt on your bag, scrub it away with a bristle brush.
6. It ages beautifully. Over time, your tote bag will develop a unique patina, making your bag uniquely yours.
7. It looks amazing. Waxed canvas has this wonderful rustic and vintage look that adds a touch of classic elegance to any outfit.
8. It has a rich history. When you learn the history of waxed canvas, you can practically sense the connection between waxed canvas and the era when quality and craftsmanship were valued highly.