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Are you planning on traveling carry-on only for your next sunny beach or poolside vacation? You can grab one of the cute beach bags and totes for the season that are lightweight and packable!
Best Beach Bag and Beach Bag Tote Styles
Table Of Contents
A warm-weather destination is a great place to travel carry-on only, but it helps if you choose the best travel beach bag or tote to go along with your swimwear.
Packable beach bags are perfect for stuffing in your carry-on and taking out later for your excursions. When choosing one, keep in mind the type of travel you’re doing. Sometimes it’s better to go for a backpack-style or a crossbody choice depending on your activities and the destination.
And, as a bonus, you can use these to hold your daily essentials, for shopping, and to bring back extra souvenirs, too!
With that in mind, check out these cute beach totes, crossbody styles, and backpack options to add to your travel capsule wardrobe, so you can save space, pack light, and still look fab seaside or poolside!
Best Beach Tote Bags
Longchamp Le Pliage Large Tote | Also: Nordstrom
Top Readers’ Pick: Longchamp Le Pliage Nylon Beach Bag
Aim for versatile large beach tote bags that can double as a personal carry-on item, such as the Longchamp’s Le Pliage, which has a well-deserved spot in the “best” category. And it’s not without reason!
The Le Pliage is incredibly stylish but low maintenance and durable. It’s water-resistant and foldable with a snap tab if you want to store it before or after use. And it’s versatile enough to accompany you on your Mediterranean cruise and then have it at your side in Europe’s chic streets.
With plenty of space to organize your belongings, it has plenty of colors to choose from and is durable on top of a dedicated smartphone pocket. We can see why this is rated best packable beach bag by readers!
Is Longchamp the best travel handbags? Read this post for our review of these popular totes!
J. Crew Woven Straw Market Tote
J. Crew Woven Straw Beach Bag
If you want stylish beach bags, look no further than J.Crew, a veritable reader favorite!
This reliable brand’s elegant woven straw handbags have a wide opening and roomy interior to fit anything from a beach towel and flip flops to finds at a local seaside market.
A classic-looking accessory for a sunny vacation, this J crew beach bag comes in two shades, this cute basic pictured and a black stripe one that’s equally cute!
Sakroots Meadow Straw Tote Beach Bag
“Attractive, lightweight, and a good size” is how many users describe this straw beach tote. And the design—so gorgeous! It’s roomy to fit all your beach essentials, has a quality canvas lining, and comes with a handy (and adorable) makeup bag.
Not just fashion beach bags, these are also practically equipped with one interior and one exterior pocket for extra storage. It comes in three pretty colors!
Vera Bradley Recycled Lighten Up ReActive Bag
Vera Bradley Recycled Lighten Up ReActive Large Beach Bag
This printed large tote is described as lightweight and versatile by many reviewers. Made from recycled bottles, the fabric is water-repellent, and there’s a handy drawstring to keep things secure, but you can still peek in to grab something small.
Super roomy with a mesh closure that catches sand, and all you need to do is shake it a bit, and there are enough pockets (one zip; one slip) to store things like lip balm, cash, or a room key. This pretty Vera Bradley beach bag comes in a ton of summer colors too!
The Sak Casual Classics Large Tote
The Sak Casual Classics Crocheted Beach Bag
Talk about adorable! This crochet tassel beach bag is made by hand and is vegan (PETA-Approved), but it’s also well designed so you can organize your things easily for a pool or beach day. There are multi-pockets on the front wall, a zippered back pocket, and a center pocket.
This woven beach bag works for a day outdoors or as a regular purse and carry-on item. It comes in another cute color with pink and gray shades—choose either to take the summer by storm!
Tumi Voyageur Just In Case® Packable Nylon Tote
Tumi Voyageur Just In Case® Packable Nylon Zipper Beach Bags
If you want some chic and cool beach bags, look no further than Tumi Voyageur. This brand is TFG reader-approved and makes high-quality products to take anywhere!
This nylon packable beach tote folds up into its own traveling pouch that can easily slip inside a carry-on compartment. It has a durable two-way zip-up and plenty of space to put sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, and beach towel. The stylish carrying handles and range of colors you can choose from make this a smart way to travel light!
Find out what our readers have to say about their Tumi Bags in our review!
ALOHA Collection Day Tripper Tote
ALOHA Collection Day Tripper Extra Large Beach Bag
Touted as one of the best zippered beach bags, ALOHA is a California-based brand that knows the rigors we beach-goers put our accessories through!
This big beach bag has a full zipper top that’s expandable for even more space while you’re traveling, shopping, or hitting the seaside on a sunny day. It has an interior pocket that can hold small essentials like your phone or sunglasses and an outside zipper pocket. Users say this is a great personal item to carry on the plane because of the organizational design, storage space, and sturdiness.
The biggest bonus? It’s designed with a technical fabric to repel splashes, spills, and a little rain shower. Be forewarned the bag is not waterproof, so it’s not a good idea to plunge into water with belongings inside as the zippers aren’t sealed. This comes in a variety of feminine, tropical-inspired prints!
Dejaroo Mesh Bag For Beach Toys/Essentials
Dejaroo Mesh Beach Bag
Mesh beach bags like the ones by Dejaroo are great for a casual, fun day at the beach with kids in tow. This large tote has multiple pockets to put in anything from flip flops to sunscreen and towels.
This also dries quickly, and any sand or debris just falls through the mesh. There are long comfy straps so easy to carry, and when done using, just fold it up and pack it away. And if you want to bring toys, this is a perfect boy and girl beach bag to carry sand toys too!
RIAH FASHION Boho Straw Beach Tote Bag
RIAH FASHION Boho Straw Beach Bags
The range of summer straw handbags by RIAH is affordable, with a ton of cute colors to choose from! It’s lightweight, medium-sized, and one user reports how much this tote can fit! Enough for two swimming outfits for toddlers and towels, for example.
A great economical choice if you want something stylish without spending too much.
LL Bean Beach Bag – Boat and Tote
L.L.Bean Beach Bags – Boat and Tote
The L.L.Bean beach bag is super popular for water activities in general! Whether you’re going boating or pulling up a chair dug into the sand, you can rely on this made in Maine staple. It’s durable and comes in several classic colors.
This beach tote with zipper is made of a sturdy cotton canvas, has handles that can hold up to 500 lb, and has a reinforced bottom to hold all your swimming gear. You can grab this in small, medium, large, and extra-large and choose short vs. long handles. And bonus, you can even personalize it with a monogram!
Tory Burch Ella Recycled Nylon Tote
Tory Burch Beach Bag – Ella Recycled Nylon Tote
The designer beach bag by Tory Burch has a high fashion look that’s still practical, with an easy magnetic closure and interior and wall pocket for storage. You can pair this zippered beach tote with an evening dress just as well as a swimsuit.
This bag is one of the best beach bags and totes because of its easy, packable design and an alluring classic silhouette. You won’t have to sacrifice style for space with this bag! (Learn to Pack Light Stylishly with this guide!)
It’s the best of both worlds for style-conscious travelers who need a refined, fashionable classic beach bag. With its glossy handles and accents, this bag is perfect for your next beachy Hawaiian getaway!
Best Across Body Beach Bag
KAVU Rope Sling Crossbody Zip Beach Bag
Perfect for adventurers who want something great for organization but roomy enough to pack a day’s worth of beach exploration, this boho beach bag with pockets is a hands-free crossbody style that has just that, tons of pockets! There are two main compartments to pack more oversized items like a water bottle or a change of clothes, with an inside zip pocket, while two front pockets hold smaller items like your phone or sunscreen.
The buckles are well made, and so is the rope sling strap. Overall, it’s a sturdy, well-made summer accessory that’s uber cute! You can grab this in SO many different designs; you’ll indeed find one that suits your style!
Lily Queen Tote and Crossbody/Shoulder Bag
Lily Queen Canvas Beach Tote and Crossbody/Shoulder Style
These duck canvas beach tote bags are stylish and have plenty of room for a sun hat, flip flops, a towel, and sunscreen, and more!
They’re very sturdy, easy to wash, and super soft! The versatility is what’s super special about this classic summer beach bag, as you can wear it crossbody but also over the shoulder or carry it by the top handles. It’s available in several muted, soft colors that we love!
Bydenwely Rope Handle Tote Bag
Bydenwely Rope Handle Beach Bag
The best vacation bags should be versatile and usable in many scenarios, including beach or pool outings, all the way to sightseeing. Users think this classically striped beach bag fits that definition!
You can choose the size you want, either small to medium, and the rope handles are adjustable and coated with leather for durability. The closure is fuss-free too! It’s magnetic, so no big struggle with zippers or snaps. There’s also an internal zippered pocket to store things away from plain sight, like cash or a phone.
Best Beach Bag Backpack
Speedo Unisex Deluxe Ventilator Mesh Equipment Bag
Speedo Deluxe Ventilator Mesh Equipment Bag
If you’re into watersports rather than being a beach lounger having this quick drying backpack from Speedo might fit with your activities. It has an open mesh weave, so it’s sturdy, and the shoulder straps are adjustable.
You can use it to store everything from fins to snorkeling gear, along with your beach basics. You can grab this in a bunch of fun prints (or colors) like the one pictured above!
WANDF Water Resistant Backpack
If you want sturdy water-resistant beach bags, this nylon backpack is durable and has excellent organizational compartments too. With a front pocket, three interior pockets, and a hidden back pocket, you can store immediate essentials and anything you want to hide, such as a phone or wallet.
The capacity is large, fitting all beach gear easily, and you can adjust the straps and use the drawstring closure to seal your belongings more. This comes in other colors and prints that will make beach time fun and carefree!
Fun Beach Bags and Totes Comparison Chart
The best beach bags and totes are packable, versatile styles. Take all your vacation essentials all in one roomy tote that won’t cramp your style.
| BRAND / MODEL | FEATURES | RATING | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Beach Tote Bags | |||
Top Readers’ Pick: Longchamp Le Pliage Nylon Beach Bag |
It’s water-resistant and foldable with a snap tab if you want to store it before or after use. And it’s versatile enough to accompany you on your Mediterranean cruise and then have it at your side in Europe’s chic streets. | Check Price | |
J. Crew Woven Straw Beach Bag |
A classic-looking accessory for a sunny vacation, this J crew beach bag comes in two shades, this cute basic pictured and a black stripe one that’s equally cute! | Check Price | |
Sakroots Meadow Straw Tote Beach Bag |
“Attractive, lightweight, and a good size” | Check Price | |
Vera Bradley Recycled Lighten Up ReActive Large Beach Bag |
Super roomy with a mesh closure that catches sand, and all you need to do is shake it a bit, and there are enough pockets (one zip; one slip) to store things like lip balm, cash, or a room key. | Check Price | |
The Sak Casual Classics Crocheted Beach Bag |
This woven beach bag works for a day outdoors or as a regular purse and carry-on item. It comes in another cute color with pink and gray shades—choose either to take the summer by storm! | Check Price | |
Tumi Voyageur Just In Case® Packable Nylon Zipper Beach Bags |
It has a durable two-way zip-up and plenty of space to put sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, and beach towel. The stylish carrying handles and range of colors you can choose from make this a smart way to travel light! | Check Price | |
ALOHA Collection Day Tripper Extra Large Beach Bag |
Touted as one of the best zippered beach bags, ALOHA is a California-based brand that knows the rigors we beach-goers put our accessories through! | Check Price | |
Dejaroo Mesh Beach Bag |
This also dries quickly, and any sand or debris just falls through the mesh. There are long comfy straps so easy to carry, and when done using, just fold it up and pack it away. And if you want to bring toys, this is a perfect boy and girl beach bag to carry sand toys too! | Check Price | |
RIAH FASHION Boho Straw Beach Bags |
A great economical choice if you want something stylish without spending too much. | Check Price | |
L.L.Bean Beach Bags - Boat and Tote |
This beach tote with zipper is made of a sturdy cotton canvas, has handles that can hold up to 500 lb, and has a reinforced bottom to hold all your swimming gear. | Check Price | |
Tory Burch Beach Bag - Ella Recycled Nylon Tote |
It’s the best of both worlds for style-conscious travelers who need a refined, fashionable classic beach bag. With its glossy handles and accents, this bag is perfect for your next beachy Hawaiian getaway! | Check Price | |
| Best Across Body Beach Bag | |||
KAVU Rope Sling Crossbody Zip Beach Bag |
The buckles are well made, and so is the rope sling strap. Overall, it’s a sturdy, well-made summer accessory that’s uber cute! You can grab this in SO many different designs; you’ll indeed find one that suits your style! | Check Price | |
Lily Queen Canvas Beach Tote and Crossbody/Shoulder Style |
They’re very sturdy, easy to wash, and super soft! The versatility is what’s super special about this classic summer beach bag, as you can wear it crossbody but also over the shoulder or carry it by the top handles. It’s available in several muted, soft colors that we love! | Check Price | |
Bydenwely Rope Handle Beach Bag |
The closure is fuss-free too! It’s magnetic, so no big struggle with zippers or snaps. There’s also an internal zippered pocket to store things away from plain sight, like cash or a phone. | Check Price | |
| Best Beach Bag Backpack | |||
Speedo Deluxe Ventilator Mesh Equipment Bag |
It has an open mesh weave, so it’s sturdy, and the shoulder straps are adjustable. You can use it to store everything from fins to snorkeling gear, along with your beach basics. | Check Price | |
WANDF Water Resistant Backpack |
The capacity is large, fitting all beach gear easily, and you can adjust the straps and use the drawstring closure to seal your belongings more. This comes in other colors and prints that will make beach time fun and carefree! | Check Price | |
Compass Rose Travel Packing Cubes
How to Organize Beach Bags and Travel Totes
The best beach totes and vacation bags can be used for your personal carry-on item and excursions. And one way to organize your items both on and off the plane is by using packing cubes. If you’re curious about how to use packing cubes, watch the video below.
Learn our hacks with packing cubes in the video above!
I put together a five-part YouTube series showing you the different methods to use packing cubes. If you use this specific packing strategy, they also can compress your belongings. This is the secret to traveling carry-on only!
A packable beach bag can be stowed on top of, alongside, or even between packing cubes in your carry-on luggage. Or you can use your bag as a carry-on item itself and use packing cubes to organize small essentials, on or off the plane. Check out this post to see how others have used them to keep organized!
What are your favorite beach bags and totes? Share in the comments!
To complete your summer beach look, please read:
- Best Swimsuits for Women: Stylish and Fun Summer Picks
- Versatile Beach Dresses
- Best Swimsuit Coverups
- Cute and Comfortable Beach Sandals
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I tried to enter the contest last night unsuccessfully. so this is really a test.
I love your advice. Found you last year on a trip to Greece for a wedding. (Sadly, my husbands last before he passed) I needed a packing list and there you were! I love your fresh style, practical with some whimsy. Always on trend. I’m happy for your success, congratulate you on making it happen. It’s inspiring to me as I feel I’m starting over (at 61).
All the best to you and your family.
Soooooo, the beach bag has morphed into the ‘it’ bag. Like a statement only more relaxed and I’m loving the new styles. Beautiful!!! I went to Greece last summer and discovered this site. I am a subscriber and am happy. You have evolved as well. Congrats on the birth of your daughter and I’m looking forward to many new adventures. I lost my hubby last october. I discovered your site while looking up “what to pack for Greece”. All the best to you and your family.
My husband just surprised me with a trip to Turks & Caicos. First plane trip since 2019! I am planning on going carry on only and TFG has been a big help.
You might also like our hand-embroidered, ecofriendly totes. They roll down to the size of a coffee cup, and are one of my travel and everyday staples 🙂
They’re lovely!
I carry Envirosax – these nylon bags rolls and fold into almost nothing, but work great as beach bags, shopping bags, laundry bags, extra luggage bags……….and they come in all sorts of colors and patterns. I have three that are about 5 yrs old – easy to wash and dry, and they tuck into my backpack until needed. Love them!
Great addition!
Love Maison Scotch’s Mint Tote–it has a great soft print I adore! Baggu’s Nylon Tote is also great to have on hand, because you never know when you’ll need an emergency extra. A few companies bags I’ve been eyeing are Mar Y Sol. They have great straw beach totes! Mercado Global is another great option and has woven bags with great patterns.
I use the Longchamp’s Le Pliage Large for both the beach and also somethings we I travel. It’s my favorite tote bag.