The 11 Best Large, Functional Bags That Are Life-Proof—But Still Gorgeous
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Tom Wambsgans may not approve, but everyone needs a large bag, even if it feels “ludicrously capacious” and what’s even in there? “Flat shoes for subway? [Your] lunch pail?” It’s monstrous, but it sure is practical.
You’ve probably seen the “What’s In My Bag” video format on YouTube where celebrities and influencers show the incredibly well-curated content of their designer handbags — never large bags! Piece by piece, they reveal the essentials they deem worthy of living in their Chanel Flap Bag rent-free. While they may be entertaining, I always find these videos incredibly unrelatable. My daily bag is a Longchamp Le Pliage tote and it serves as a portable storage unit for my work computer and every other miscellaneous item that doesn’t comfortably fit into my one-bedroom apartment.
I’d be embarrassed to reveal the contents of my bag (let alone to millions of people on the internet) but I’m not embarrassed to say I’m well-versed in the best large bags for daily life, work, travel and even beach vacations. If you’re in the market for a new tote that holds it all, you’re in the right place.
Best Large Bags for Work at a Glance
Best Overall: Kipling Art M Weekender, $129
Best Under $50: Guardung Oversized PU Leather Tote, $46
Best Boxy Tote Bag: A New Day Large Boxy Tote Handbag, $40
Best Classic Tote: Market by Monica Canvas Hero XL Tote, $130
Best Summer Bag: Madewell Handwoven Leather Tote, $188
Best Cool-Girl Bag: Clare V. Simple Tote, $450
Best Against Wear and Tear: Large Le Pliage Tote, $155
Best TikTok-Favorite Brand: Polène Cyme Tote, $520
Best Minimalist Style: Freja New York Linnea Tote Cappuccino, $318
Best Sale Bag: Sandro Kasbah Double S Bag, $275 (originally $475)
Best Vegan Leather Bag: Von Holzhausen The Large Shopper, $495
The first thing to know when shopping for a large bag is that not all spacious totes are created equal. Like searching for an apartment. it’s important to shop with a personal set of criteria for your ideal bag. Do you want an interior pocket, a zipper top or a multi-wear strap? Leather, faux leather or maybe a canvas material? There’s not one right answer so the choice is yours! Luckily, there are plenty of options on the market that meet multiple criteria.
If you’re planning on using this bag every day for years, it may be worth investing in a higher-quality piece like the bags from Polène. If you’re looking for a grocery or beach tote for the summer, an affordable choice from Zara will get the job done. No matter your budget, the 10 bags I’ve rounded up below are just as cute as they are spacious. Or as Tom says in Succession, ludicrously capacious.
What to Look for in a Large Bag for Work
What to shop for in a large bag for work depends on your personal work needs. If you need to lug your laptop to and from work every day, you might want to find a bag with a laptop sleeve or compartment. If you’re always losing your keys, using a bag that features a built-in key ring or fob will be helpful. Additionally, consider the amount of pockets you need. Keeping your credit card or Metro card in an outer pocket can make commuting and grabbing lunch way easier.
Last thing: Straps and handles. Try to make sure the straps and/or handles on the bag are durable and preferably plush or soft, so they don’t dig into your shoulders. If you need a large bag, chances are you’re carrying a lot of stuff. A lot of stuff = a heavy load. Be kind to your shoulders and back!
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Kipling Art M Weekender Tote Bag
Kipling Art M Weekender Tote Bag
What we love about this tote bag so much is that it can transition to any after work activity, whether that’s the gym, or even just drinks with your pals. It’s large enough to store your laptop, headphones, and even an extra outfit or two. It’s a workhorse of a bag that’s multi-functional, whether you need a no-fuss bag for the office, or a handbag that’s practical enough to travel with (personally, we think this bag would be ideal for business travel).
Dimensions: 23.25”L x 17.75”H x 9.5”D
Capacity: 41.5L
Colorways: 1
Material: 60% nylon, 40% recycled nylon
Storage: Front zip compartment, separate, bottom zip compartment
Pros
Can slide over your roller bag
Bottom zip compartment that’s separate
Cons
Styles frequently sell out
Guardung Oversized PU Leather Tote
Guardung Oversized PU Leather Tote
This oversized, slouchy bag is so chic and will make any outfit look instantly put together. If you like a catch-all style of a bag, this is perfect, since it features one large compartment for everything you need to get through the day.
Dimensions: Not listed
Capacity: Not listed
Colorways: 1
Material: PU leather
Storage: 1 large compartment
Pros
Oversized
Under $50
Cons
No bag closure
A New Day Large Boxy Tote Handbag
A New Day Large Boxy Tote Handbag
We love a boxy large bag for work because it will stand perfectly on your desk and keep its structure, so you never have to put it on the floor. This is also a great vacation or summer bag (it has a straw-y, woven design, but we probably wouldn’t take it on the beach.
Dimensions: 12.5” (H) x 16” (W) x 5.5” (D)
Capacity: Not listed
Colorways: 4
Material: Straw, Polyurethane
Storage: 1 large compartment, 2 inner compartments, 2 outer pockets
Pros
Affordable
Boxy structure
Cons
Reviewers say outer pockets are too small
Madewell Handwoven Leather Tote
Madewell Handwoven Leather Tote
There’s a reason why so many people swear by Madewell’s totes: They’re a tried-and-true workhorse that’ll stand the test of time, and the price is right. If you’re looking for a warm weather bag, but can’t picture yourself using a straw bag (they’re so cute for summer, but not the most practical if you schlep a lot of stuff), Madewell’s Handwoven Leather Tote gives you that beachy look, but more structured. It’s roomy, and the handle lengths are perfect for ease of day-to-day use.
Dimensions: 11″H x 17″W
Capacity: N/A
Colorways: 2
Material: Leather
Storage: One large compartment, one zip pocket
Pros
Really gorgeous
Unique handwoven design
Has slightly longer strap drop vs. the Transport Tote
Price is fair
Cons
Rounded straps do dig in if your load is heavy
Clare V Simple Tote
Clare V. Simple Tote
“Clare V. was my first big splurge: I got myself a Simple Tote (navy blue, I don’t think that colorway exists anymore) when I was promoted at work back in 2016, and I wore it non-stop for about five years. Clare V. has so many timeless, Cool Girl bag designs (the Moyen Messenger is one I see everywhere!), but the brand’s classic Simple Tote has had my heart for a long, long time — and it’s still such a refreshing, effortless, French design. I truly think this bag will always be the It Girl of totes. You just can’t go wrong. Especially with the camel suede and stripes — it gives it a little personality, like it’s saying “I don’t take myself that seriously.”
I always wore my Simple Tote with the long straps, because I find short handles to be uncomfortable, but you can go either way. Inside, you have one large compartment and a small pocket, plus, it has a magnetic closure.” –Gina Vaynshteyn, Senior Commerce Director
Dimensions: 15” W x 12 1/2” H x 4 1/2” D
Capacity: N/A
Colorways: 1
Material: Italian suede, inside is chambray
Storage: One large compartment, one interior pocket
Pros
Beautiful, unique design
Has long strap option
Structured, flat bottom
Spacious
Cons
Since it’s suede, it’s harder to keep clean
Pricey
Longchamp Le Pliage Tote
Longchamp Le Pilage Tote
In case you missed it, Longchamp is making a comeback. I recently repurchased this Le Pliage tote and can’t believe I ever stopped wearing mine in the first place. It holds so much and sits comfortably on my shoulders for hours. Because it’s made of nylon, it’s easier to clean (and keep clean!) — plus, you can feel safe using it for the gym, or really being rough with it, since it’s not made of a delicate material like soft leather. Parents out there will love the fact that you can throw diapers and formula in your bag and not worry about milk (and other fun baby liquids) ruining the fabric because of the water-resistant feature. It’s practical meets stylish, and everyone needs at least one bag in that category.
Dimensions: 12 ¼”W x 11 ¾”H x 7 ½”D.
Capacity: large
Colorways: 7
Material: Nylon
Storage: Top zip compartment, interior zip pocket
Pros
Water-resistant lining
Large capacity
Cons
Some reviewers note arm straps are on the shorter side
Market By Monica Canvas Hero XL Tote
Market By Monica Canvas Hero XL Tote
Trader Joe’s mini totes may be all the rage, but a) good luck finding one, and b) they’re really not that spacious! You can always snag a classic canvas tote from L.L. Bean, but if you’re looking for a few more bells and whistles, we love this hidden gem on QVC. It not only has a zipper enclosure to keep your stuff safe but also a double-stripe design, but it also has a crossbody strap for more options.
Dimensions: 15.4″ x 7.9″ x 14.2″
Capacity: N/A
Colorways: 1
Material: 60% nylon, 40% recycled nylon
Storage: One large compartment
Pros
Goes with everything
Comes with handles as well as crossbody straps
Made from 100% organic cotton
Cons
Can get dirty quickly
Pricey
Polène Cyme Tote
Polène Cyme Tote
Polène is the darling brand of TikTok right now, and for good reason. The leather bags and silhouettes are of designer quality without the four-digit designer price tag. This tote comes in four colors (and a few seasonal color options that are currently sold out). This bag can be carried by the handle or worn with the larger strap on your shoulder.
Dimensions: 32” x 38” x 17” cm
Capacity: 900g
Colorways: 8
Material: Leather, suede
Storage: 1 large compartment
Pros
1 large compartment
Unique design
Wide, comfortable straps
Cons
No zip closure
Pricey
Not the most practical for everyday use
Freja New York Linnea Tote Cappuccino
Freja New York Linnea Tote Cappuccino
Freja Linnea Tote is another new classic that’s big right now. If you want a timeless, sturdy tote that fits your minimalist, chic office style—this tote is the one for you. It’s in the same camp as Cuyana and Everlane (in our opinion), but a touch more “Quiet Luxury.” It’s decadent without screaming about it, and the price is mid-range (in terms of designer bags!). What makes it really stand out, aside from its polished form, is that it’s really built to last and look stunning every time you wear it. It comes in five neutral shades and will fit a laptop up to 14”.
Dimensions: 13” & 14” L x 10” H x 6″
Capacity: Not listed
Colorways: 6
Material: Vegan ultrafiber leather
Storage: 1 large compartment, internal zip compartment, internal pockets
Pros
Sleek, minimalist “quiet luxury” style
Multiple internal pockets, compartments
Cons
Vegan leather
Pricey
Sandro Kasbah Double S Bag
Sandro Kasbah Double S Bag
On Sale 40% off
For days when your tote bag needs to be just as cute as your outfit, this spacious printed Sandro bag is perfect. French brand Sandro is known for its preppy clothing designs (so many peter pan collars and tweed — like a punkier Chanel, IMO), and its bags are just as whimsical. We spotted the Kasbah Double S bag on sale, which isn’t the only reason why we’re eyeing it. It’s unique, has that Christian Dior shopper bag look (but for a lot less), and it’s very roomy. While it’s certainly more of a statement tote versus an everyday bag, it’s very worth it.
Dimensions: 41 cm x 35 cm x 18 cm
Capacity: Not listed
Colorways: 1
Material: Tweed
Storage: 1 large compartment, internal zip compartment
Pros
On sale
Magnetic closure
Fun design
Cons
Higher price point
Von Holzhausen Shopper Tote
Von Holzhausen, The Large Shopper
“Some people may feel like $495 is a lot for vegan leather (yes, it’s technically made from plastic—recycled plastic!), but if you’re going the sustainable and animal-friendly route, this bag from Von Holzhausen is the way to go because the leather feels incredibly authentic. i’ve been wearing mine for about three years now, and a) it’s in incredible condition (no scratches whatsoever — I actually think the vegan material is more durable than some of my delicate soft leather bags), and b) It’s my go-to work bag for the office and whenever I have a business trip. It’s just very, very functional, has the right amount of pockets, and is extremely spacious. And gorgeous. This bag is impressively pretty.
Other features I like: The material is water and stain-resistant, and you can easily clean it with a Wet Wipe or soap, water, and a towel. The couple times I accidentally got sunscreen all over it during vacation, I was able to easily wipe off the residue. It has magnetic closures, so you can keep your stuff secure without zipping all the time. The vegan leather is also non-toxic.
My only gripe is that, while the thin handles are sturdy, they’re not the most comfortable if you’re carrying a lot of stuff.” -Gina Vaynshteyn, Senior Commerce Director
Dimensions: 14 ½” height x 15″ width
Capacity: 5 ½” depth, 8 ½” drop
Colorways: 6
Material: Technik (recycled water bottles)
Storage: One large compartment, two smaller open pockets, one zip pocket
Pros
Authentic leather feel
Extremely durable
Water-resistant
Stain-resistant
Very roomy
Chic, unique design
Made from recycled, biodegradable material
Cons
Handles/straps could be thicker or more plush
Pricey
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