8 Best Tote Bags for Men in 2025

Rugged, no-nonsense, and built like a tool bag—the Carhartt Horizontal Zip Tote doesn’t play games when it comes to durability. Crafted from 600 denier nylon with Rain Defender technology, this tote laughs in the face of drizzle and daily wear, making it a workhorse for urban commutes and weekend errands alike. The horizontal zipper design offers wide, glove-friendly access—perfect for grabbing a laptop or lunch without spelunking into a cavernous bag. If you’ve ever cursed at a flimsy tote that folds under the weight of your gear, this one’s sturdy shoulder straps and reinforced base will feel like redemption.

In real-world use, the tote shines during daily commutes and short trips, easily swallowing a 15-inch laptop, gym clothes, and a water bottle without sagging. The 16.5” x 13.5” footprint gives it ample width for organization, while the fleece-lined interior pocket is a thoughtful touch for protecting glasses or a phone. However, the horizontal layout, while great for visibility, can make it awkward to carry when fully loaded—especially compared to vertical designs that sit flush against your back. It’s not a backpack, so shoulder fatigue can creep in after prolonged use. Still, for a non-convertible tote, it handles heavy loads with surprising grace.

Compared to the Carhartt Vertical Open Tote, this model trades quick-grab openness for security and weather resistance—a win if you’re often in unpredictable conditions or crowded spaces. It’s also more structured than the Rothco or BALEINE budget options, with better fabric integrity and stitching. The target audience is clear: working professionals, tradespeople, or commuters who want a rugged, secure, and weather-ready bag without overcomplicating things. It delivers Carhartt-level toughness in a minimalist silhouette, outperforming cheaper totes in longevity and protection, even if it lacks the versatility of convertible straps.

Convertibility meets construction-site toughness—the Carhartt Classic Vertical Open Tote is a chameleon in the world of men’s totes, effortlessly shifting from shoulder tote to wearable backpack when your load gets heavy. Built with the same 600 denier Rain Defender polyester as its sibling, this bag laughs off rain and sidewalk grime, while the triple-stitched base ensures it won’t blow out after a few weeks of use. The vertical 18L/32L design gives it a sleek profile that fits under airplane seats, yet expands to carry textbooks, tech, or travel gear with room to spare. For the guy who wants one bag to rule work, travel, and campus, this is a no-brainer upgrade from flimsy canvas alternatives.

In testing, the adjustable backpack straps were a game-changer during long commutes—no more shoulder strain when lugging a laptop and gym kit. The coated interior shrugged off a spilled coffee with a quick wipe, and the front and back slip pockets made grabbing a phone or wallet second nature. However, the open-top design, while great for access, is a liability in crowded spaces or downpours—no zipper means your gear is exposed. The bag also lacks a dedicated padded laptop sleeve, so while it fits a 15-inch device, protection is minimal unless you use a sleeve.

Against the Horizontal Zip Tote, this model wins on versatility and comfort, but loses on security and weather protection. It’s also far more capable than the Rothco or TOPDesign budget bags, with better materials and smart organization. Ideal for students, travelers, or active commuters who value flexible carry options and rugged build, it’s a workhorse with a backpacker’s soul. It doesn’t match the BALEINE or VANDEL in aesthetics, but it outmuscles them in durability and adaptability, making it a smarter pick for those who move hard and fast.

Budget doesn’t mean broken—the Rothco Canvas Camo Tote proves you can get military-grade utility on a coffee budget. With its heavy-duty canvas build and camo finish, this bag is built for guys who need a throw-it-in-the-truck, toss-it-on-the-ground kind of tote without worrying about scuffs or stains. It’s simple, spacious, and shockingly durable for the price, handling gear, groceries, or gym clothes with zero fuss. If you’ve ever lost a tote to a ripped seam or water stain, this one’s no-frills toughness feels like a win—especially when you’re not out $70.

In real-world use, the tote holds up surprisingly well for light to moderate loads, easily fitting a laptop, notebook, and lunch. The open-top design makes loading and unloading a breeze, and the wide shoulder straps distribute weight decently. But the lack of internal pockets or closure means organization is DIY at best—your keys will rattle around freely. It also soaks through in heavy rain, and the base tends to sag when overloaded. Still, for beach trips, laundry runs, or as a backup bag, it’s a workable, washable workhorse that won’t break the bank.

Compared to the Carhartt models, it’s clearly the budget cousin—no Rain Defender, no zippers, no fleece lining. But against other sub-$15 totes, it stands out with military-inspired durability and a rugged aesthetic. It’s not the bag you take to a client meeting, but it’s perfect for weekend warriors, students, or anyone who needs a disposable-durable tote. While the TOPDesign or BALEINE bags offer more features, this one wins on raw, no-nonsense utility at a price that lets you own three for the cost of one.

Organization is king, and the BALEINE Large Utility Tote wears the crown for men who need structure, security, and smart storage in one sleek package. With a top-zip closure, multi-pocket layout, and detachable reinforced bottom, this bag is a mobile command center for nurses, teachers, or office commuters. The 16.5” x 12.5” interior swallows laptops, folders, and lunch boxes, while the slip and zipper pockets keep small items from disappearing into the void. The water-resistant polyester oxford fabric shrugs off spills, and the clean black finish looks professional in any setting.

In daily use, the zippered top is a godsend—no more fishing for keys at the bottom or worrying about pickpockets. The reinforced base keeps the tote upright and stable, even when packed, and the slip pockets make accessing a phone or badge effortless. However, the straps are fixed and not adjustable, making shoulder carry less comfortable for taller or shorter users. It also lacks backpack functionality, so it’s not ideal for long hikes or crowded transit. Still, for work, school, or medical shifts, it’s a highly functional, no-drama bag.

Against the Carhartt Vertical Tote, it trades convertibility for security and organization—a fair trade if you prioritize order over adaptability. It’s also more polished than the Rothco or TOPDesign bags, with better materials and a professional look. Designed for professionals who need reliability and structure, it’s a workhorse with brains. While it doesn’t match the Hurley or VANDEL in style, it outperforms them in utility and protection, making it the smartest pick for organized, on-the-go professionals.

Eco-conscious meets heavy-duty—the TOPDesign Canvas Tote is a planet-friendly powerhouse built for guys who want reusability without compromise. Made from 12oz 100% cotton canvas, this tote feels like a farmers market legend—thick, sturdy, and built to last years of grocery runs, beach days, or library trips. The 21” x 15” dimensions offer massive capacity, and the external pocket with top zipper adds security most reusable bags lack. It’s not just a shopping bag—it’s a zero-waste warrior with serious carry chops.

In practice, the tote handles bulky loads with ease, from laundry to camping gear. The reinforced seams and dense stitching prevent blowouts, and the 25” handles make it easy to sling over a shoulder. But the lack of internal organization means everything jumbles together, and the canvas isn’t water-resistant—a light rain turns it damp inside. Worse, machine washing is a no-go, and shrinkage up to 10% means it won’t stay the same size. Still, for eco-minded users who hate plastic bags, it’s a durable, stylish, and ethical choice.

Compared to the Rothco, it’s thicker, larger, and more eco-focused, but less rugged overall. Against the Carhartt models, it loses on weather protection and longevity, but wins on sustainability and value per bag—especially in multi-packs. Ideal for environmentalists, minimalists, or bulk shoppers, it’s a green workhorse with limits. While the BALEINE or Hurley offer more features, this one stands tall as the most responsible reusable tote in the lineup—perfect if your values weigh as much as your gear.

Lightweight doesn’t mean flimsy—the KlaOYer Canvas Messenger Tote is a featherweight champ for guys who want easy carry without sacrificing space. Weighing just 1.01 pounds, this foldable canvas bag disappears into a backpack when not in use, yet expands to fit a 15.4-inch laptop, books, and daily essentials with room to spare. The adjustable shoulder strap lets you dial in comfort, and the zippered main compartment keeps gear secure—rare in a bag this light. For the minimalist commuter or weekend traveler, it’s a slim, stylish, and surprisingly capable option.

In real use, the lightweight design is a joy for short trips or as a secondary bag. The zippered inner pocket adds security, and the outer flap and slot pockets offer quick access to essentials. But the canvas isn’t water-resistant, and the single main compartment means organization is limited. The straps, while adjustable, lack padding, so heavy loads dig into your shoulder. Still, for light packing or casual use, it’s a nimble, no-fuss tote that won’t weigh you down.

Against the BALEINE or Carhartt models, it trades structure and durability for portability and packability. It’s not built for daily abuse, but it outshines the Rothco in comfort and design. Best for students, light travelers, or urbanites who want a secondary bag, it’s a minimalist’s dream. While the Hurley or VANDEL offer more style or features, this one wins on sheer lightness and foldability, making it the top pick for guys who hate carrying extra weight.

Style with substance—the VANDEL Corduroy Tote Bag is the fashion-forward rebel in a world of black nylon and drab canvas. Crafted from soft, premium corduroy, this bag brings vintage charm and modern function to the daily grind. The aesthetic design turns heads without looking try-hard, and the machine-washable fabric means spills and stains aren’t a death sentence. With a secure zipper, inner pockets, and a fit for most laptops, it’s not just a pretty face—it’s a thoughtfully built tote for the style-conscious guy.

In use, the corduroy feels luxurious and holds up well to daily wear, while the zippered interior pockets keep essentials organized. The 17.5” interior fits a 15-inch laptop and textbooks with ease, and the 12” strap drop offers comfortable shoulder carry. But the material isn’t water-resistant, and the straps aren’t reinforced for heavy loads, so it sags when overstuffed. It also lacks backpack functionality, limiting its use for active commutes. Still, for campus, coffee runs, or creative workplaces, it’s a standout bag with personality.

Compared to the Hurley or Carhartt models, it trades ruggedness for refinement, but wins in aesthetic appeal and washability. It’s not for construction sites, but it outshines the TOPDesign or Rothco in design and versatility. Ideal for students, creatives, or fashion-minded professionals, it’s a bag that says something. While the BALEINE offers more utility, this one delivers unmatched style and ease of care, making it the best choice for guys who want to look good while staying organized.

Built for motion—the Hurley Utility Tote Bag is the athletic upgrade for guys who live in transit. With stretch bottle pockets, compression straps, and a removable crossbody strap, this bag is engineered for active lifestyles, whether you’re hitting the gym, beach, or campus. The 19L capacity is compact yet smartly designed, and the H-Tech branding and red accents give it a sporty, modern edge. The interior zip pocket and multiple slip pockets keep gear organized, while the molded zip pulls and webbing attachments add tactical flair. For the on-the-move guy who hates clutter, this is a performance-driven powerhouse.

In real testing, the bottle pockets with gussets securely hold a 32oz jug without bulging, and the compression straps cinch down the load when the bag isn’t full. The removable crossbody strap is a game-changer for hands-free walking, and the dual top handles work well for quick grabs. However, the black fabric shows scuffs easily, and the interior isn’t padded, so laptops need a sleeve. The sporty look also feels out of place in formal settings, limiting its versatility.

Against the Carhartt Vertical Tote, it’s more athletic and organized, but less rugged overall. Compared to the KlaOYer or BALEINE, it wins on active features and carry options, but loses on capacity and price efficiency. Designed for gym-goers, surfers, or urban athletes, it’s a lifestyle-specific winner. While the VANDEL beats it in style and the Carhartt in durability, this one dominates in functionality for active users, making it the top pick for guys who move hard and need their bag to keep up.