Every guy should have a good tote (or two). I find myself using them all the time – especially chasing around two rascals and all of my hobbies. Whether it’s heading out early to fly fish, or heading out late to a party in the cul-de-sac, a tote is a great way to consolidate the incredible amount of stuff that needs a home.
There are so many good options out there (including the iconic Bean Bag), here are some that I really like:
From Top Left:
1. Duck Camp Mesh Gear Tote: I was lucky enough to get both sizes of the Duck Camp mesh totes, and use them ALL THE TIME. I love the sizes and the functionality. The smaller of the two has become my Dad Pool Bag, and the larger carry waders and gear to the rivers or duck blind. And the price is just right.
2. Mission Mercantile Ice Block Tote: This one is almost more of a suitcase/weekender vs. a true tote bag, but it’s also the most stylish of the bunch. This one will last until the kiddos head off to college (which they’ll steal and take with them).
3. J.Crew Large Canvas Tote: About as simple as it gets. Canvas, big, short handles, and a long strap. A workhorse.
4. Arcteryx Granville 30 Carryall Tote: Arcteryx makes some of the highest functioning technical gear out there, and the Granville tote is a great (albeit inexpensive) example.
5. Ralph Lauren Welington Alligator Tote: And for those that prefer to travel on private jets…
6. Orvis Nylon Tote: The absolute MUST-have for any guy. Orvis offers these in a variety of color combos, and they clean up with a garden hose. The most cost-friendly of the bunch.
7. Cotopaxi Allpa 60L Gear Hauler: A huge bag that is great to keep in the back of your SUV. 60L is a LOT of space, so it’ll hold groceries, gear, or dry cleaning.
8. Yeti Camino Carryall: How do we not include Yeti? Suburb overbuy flex.
9. Rains Tote Bag Rush: Don’t sleep on Rains. I have one of their duffles and really like it. The tote is next.
What are you toting, guys?
Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole® Tote Pack 27L
It started as our diaper bag and now use it for everything. Straps and handles are a nice option Along with two giant cup holders on the side.
Dakota Adventure Supply Adventure Tote 44!
Made in South Dakota!
Please check out Tom Bihn and their crazy quality tote bags that are actually made in the USA. They’re well thought out, and not a cash grab!
Zippered top is a must for travel for us. No more contents getting scattered across the trunk or second row floorboards. Can’t go wrong with the classic LL Bean tote, which we have one for the kiddo and one for the pup.
Agree with zippered comment. I’m currently on a flight with a Beretta tote I customized by adding a leather trolley strap for easy airport rolling. Usually have my briefcase in this situation but wanted to give the tote a test run. Working well. This bag in a brown color. https://www.beretta.com/en-us/shooting-gear/bags-cases/hunting/green-waxwear-large-tote/
Added a leather strap across the back at a local leather shop.
Love the Orvis nylon tote, I have two – one for me and one for our lab. This tote makes a great gift to first time fathers- a Dad bag! I have gifted this bag to two first time fathers. Pro tip – have the father’s initials embroidered in their favorite team’s color
Own the Yeti (great bag), big fan of LL Bean boat totes, think I received the camouflage version off a recommendation from here a few years, is it lacking interior pockets (yup), I use made in the USA Klein zippered tool pouches to keep my stuff organized.
These are things I buy bc I love the look and then end up not using. Giant SUV takes all the urchins from A to B, giant wife bag takes it from there. But I have no hobbies so maybe that is why I’m short on applications
No Filson totes?