The 10 Best Canvas Tote Bags
This wiki has been updated 15 times since it was first published in May of 2020. Popular for their versatility and affordability, canvas totes are great for replacing disposable paper and plastic bags at the grocery store, as well as for hauling school supplies, gym clothes, beach gear, and more. From large models with pockets, zippers, and creative designs, to small options that are simple and effective, these carryalls work well in almost any situation. When users buy our independently chosen editorial recommendations, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Santa Barbara Designs Cotton Weekender
2. Creative Green Life Reusable Grocery Set
3. Bag & Carry Striped Beach
Editor's Notes
June 26, 2020:
Canvas tote bags are a typically inexpensive, highly convenient way to lug everything from books to laptops to produce. The most common version is a plain, neutral color bag measuring around fifteen inches in height and with a rectangular shape. Often customized with company logos, they're frequently given away at promotional events, concerts, and corporate retreats. Since most of us have one or several lying around already, we wanted to create a list that included upgraded, not-so-ordinary options to complement the staples, like weekenders, beach bags, and structured grocery boxes. For each selection, we focused on durability, functionality, and visual appeal.
One of our favorites on this list is the Give Me Fresh Waxed Grocery, which takes the traditional design and upgrades it with waxed canvas and faux leather straps. Another twist on the classic is the Out of Print Library 1016, which is sized specifically for books and features nostalgic check-out card patterns.
For shopping specifically, we found the Green Atmos Reusable 20-Pack to be a particularly good choice, since it offers enough bags for a full food run. While not technically canvas, The Creative Green Life Reusable Grocery Set is another excellent choice, as its three rigid boxes can handle a ton of items and shouldn't tip over in your trunk. For trips to the farmer's market, you might consider pairing these with a cart, like those found in our folding shopping carts ranking.
For uses outside of the market or library, we like the MiQi Shoulder Bag, which can fit almost anything, including shoes and a change of clothes. We also like the Bag & Carry Striped Beach, which boasts a waterproof lining. If you're interested in more carryalls that work well by the water, our beach bags ranking is a good place to start.
Special Honors
L.L. Bean Insulated Tote Like the classic model, the L.L. Bean Insulated Tote is made from heavy-weight, TPU-coated cotton canvas, but it's also insulated with a food-grade, BPA-free lining, which makes it an excellent choice for picnics and tailgating. llbean.com
Clare V. Saturday Totes Notably expensive, the Clare V. Saturday Totes are a fashion-forward option with eye-catching designs, bold patterns, and cheeky French phrases, often with feminist flare. clarev.com
4. Give Me Fresh Waxed Grocery
5. MiQi Shoulder Bag
6. Out of Print Library 1016
7. Dalix Extra Heavy Duty ST-043
8. Kate Spade New York Canvas
9. Green Atmos Reusable
10. The Cotton & Canvas Company Animal
A wandering writer who spends as much time on the road as in front of a laptop screen, Brett can either be found hacking away furiously at the keyboard or, perhaps, enjoying a whiskey and coke on some exotic beach, sometimes both simultaneously, usually with a four-legged companion by his side. He has been a professional chef, a dog trainer, and a travel correspondent for a well-known Southeast Asian guidebook. He also holds a business degree and has spent more time than he cares to admit in boring office jobs. He has an odd obsession for playing with the latest gadgets and working on motorcycles and old Jeeps. His expertise, honed over years of experience, is in the areas of computers, electronics, travel gear, pet products, and kitchen, office and automotive equipment.