Types of Tote Bags

Types of Tote Bags: Which Should You Buy? (2025)

On the hunt for a tote bag? You're in luck, because these trusty bags come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and materials! Tote bags are well known for being versatile, easy to carry, and built to last. With so many options available on the market, you might have a hard time making your final choice. Luckily, this trusty guide from Analog Company is here to save the day! Keep reading to find out more about the best everyday tote bag option for you.

Why Tote Bags?

A great tote bag is meant to be reliable, useful in any situation, and easy to match with your outfit. Whether you’re slinging it over your shoulder for a coffee run or packing it up for a day at work, totes make life simpler. They’re comfy, they’re chic, and they’re wildly functional.

The main upside is ease of access. Unlike a backpack, it's a much simpler affair to take your bag off your shoulder and pop it open, rather than having to unzip multiple pockets and dig around for your essentials. These bags are one-stop solutions for lighter loads and are perfect for casual outings.

What Function Should Your Tote Bag Have?

Analog Tote Bags

Regardless of design or material, there are some basic features that tote bags should have in order to really help them shine.

Compartments and Storage Size: Different compartments in your tote bag help keep your items organised by separating them. Tote bags with pockets for small/loose objects, bottle holders, and a padded laptop compartment will make sure your items are safe and easily accessible, preventing incidents such as bottle leakages

Water Resistance: If you carry electronics, having some kind of waterproofing will take your tote bag to the next level. High-quality materials or an internal coating will make sure your delicate electronics are protected from spills or rain.

Accessibility: Retrieving your belongings from the tote bag should be easy, but you don't want the top to be constantly open. A magnetic clasp or zipper is ideal for keeping it secure, but simple to access.

Handling: A tote bag might end up being rough on your neck and shoulders when worn for long periods. A good tote bag should give you plenty of options to fix this! Some tote bags have customizable/adjustable straps, allowing  you to wear them as a crossbody bag, for a change in look and better ergonomics to reduce long-term stress.

Types of Materials for Tote Bags

Analog No.22 Medium Tote Bag

There are a few common types of materials that can be used to make tote bags! Each has its upsides and downsides, and when settling on one, be sure to think about its ideal purpose.

Canvas Tote Bags

The classic canvas tote is the go-to for everyday use. It’s sturdy, lightweight, and doesn’t mind a little rough use. Analog Company’s canvas totes are especially practical—some are even water-repellent, which is a lifesaver when you’re caught in the rain. You can even apply beeswax on them for protection from heavier rain conditions.

Cleaning is super easy too. Most canvas bags can be spot cleaned with a damp cloth, and some are even machine washable.

Leather Tote Bags

Leather tote bags look sleek and polished—great for more formal settings or when you want something a little elevated. They’re durable and age nicely, but they usually require more upkeep. The price can also be hefty, so you could consider a faux leather tote instead.

Nylon Tote Bags

Nylon is lightweight and usually water-resistant, which makes it a solid pick for travel or gym use. But compared to canvas or leather, it doesn’t always feel as structured or stylish. If function is your priority, and you want something super easy to wipe down, nylon bags will do fine.

Types of Uses for Tote Bags

When deciding on the right tote bag for you, you also need to consider what you'll be using it for. A bag that can carry all your essentials has to also be appropriate for any occasion.

School Bag

A school bag needs to handle laptops, books, chargers, and whatever else you’ve crammed into your daily timetable. Look for a school tote bag with internal organization, large compartments, and a sturdy build. Since you'll be carrying it all the time, you should make sure it has comfortable straps as well.

Work Tote

A work tote needs to balance function with a clean, professional look. It should have a padded laptop sleeve, space for documents, and some internal structure so it’s not just one big pocket. Analog Company's work-ready tote bags also come with thoughtful details like zip closures, magnetic clasps, and water-resistant canvas—making them solid for daily commutes.

Travel Companion

Traveling? You want something spacious but manageable, with quick-access compartments for things like your phone, boarding pass, or passport. A specialized travel tote bag works great as a carry-on or day bag, especially one with water-resistant fabric and secure zippered pockets.

For more information, check out our handy guide on the various uses of tote bags.

Analog Company’s Tote Bag Catalog

Finding the right tote bag doesn’t have to be complicated—as long as you know what you’re looking for.

Every design in Analog Company's catalog is thoughtful, functional, and rooted in everyday use. You’ll find options with padded laptop compartments, water-repellent fabrics, adjustable straps, and sizes that match exactly what you need.

Laptop Bags

Off-White XL Laptop Tote

Need to carry your tech around? Our laptop totes are built with padded, water-resistant compartments to keep devices protected, plus plenty of room for chargers, notebooks, and whatever else your day demands.

Mini Totes

Analog No.33 Mini Tote

Perfect for days when you’re packing light. Miniature tote bags offer solid internal storage and thoughtful features, just in a more compact frame. Easy to carry, easy to love.

Travel Bags

No.19 XL Laptop Tote

For weekends away or long days out, travel totes give you the space and function you need, without sacrificing style. Our canvas tote bags are large enough to handle clothes, books, gadgets, and more.

Whether you’re after a sleek laptop carrier for work, a compact bag for everyday errands, or a spacious option for travel, Analog Company has something built for you.

Choosing the Perfect Tote Bag From Analog Company’s Range

Analog Tote Bags

At the end of the day, the best tote bag is one that fits your routine without compromising on comfort.

Analog Company’s totes are built to handle everyday use, with essential features like water-resistant laptop compartments, smart internal pockets, built-in bottle holders for your daily coffee or tumbler, and adjustable straps so you can switch up how it looks or feels to carry.

All of this comes wrapped in durable canvas, with designs that range from sleek laptop-ready bags to compact mini totes for quick errands. You can even add your own flair with unique accessories and patches in different themes—all for less than $100, with international shipping available. Whether you’re commuting, studying, traveling, or just living your day, there’s a tote in the catalogue made for it. Check out our full collection today!

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