9 Best Summer Travel Bags to Buy in 2025

Effortless summer readiness starts with a bag that balances spaciousness, sand resistance, and style—and the HOHOM Beach Bag delivers with thoughtful mesh engineering and smart internal organization. Its dual-layer design features a waterproof main compartment and ventilated mesh panels, ensuring wet swimsuits don’t soak your towel and sand shakes out with a flick. For beachgoers tired of gritty linings and sagging straps, this tote answers the call with reinforced handles and a security pocket for phones and keys—making it a top-tier choice for daily pool trips or weekend getaways.

In real-world use, the bag’s large 18 x 14 x 7-inch footprint easily swallows two towels, a water bottle, sunscreen, and snacks—ideal for family outings. The foldable design tucks into its own pouch, slipping into suitcases or glove compartments without bulk. While the crochet-style weave adds boho flair, it also allows airflow, reducing mildew risk after wet use. However, the open-top main compartment (only the inner pocket zips) means you’ll need to be cautious in crowded areas—small items could shift if tilted.

Compared to the Iioscre mesh tote, the HOHOM model trades a bit of load-bearing durability for higher aesthetic appeal and better sand management. Where the Iioscre wins on zipper coverage and weight capacity, the HOHOM excels in breathability and vacation-ready style—making it ideal for style-conscious travelers who prioritize cleanliness and convenience over maximum load. It strikes a rare balance: practical enough for daily beach runs, chic enough to carry from shore to sidewalk café.

Built like a workhorse but styled for summer, the Iioscre Mesh Beach Tote is a budget-savvy powerhouse that doesn’t skimp on durability or function. With a tested 30+ lb capacity and diamond-grid nylon mesh, this bag laughs in the face of heavy towels and multiple water bottles. The full-zip inner compartment is a game-changer, keeping wallets, phones, and keys secure—something many mesh totes overlook. For travelers who hate sand in their seams, the solid polyester base is a quiet hero: no sand seepage, easy shake-out, and quick-drying performance.

During testing, the bag handled back-to-back beach days without strain, its anti-tear mesh surviving packed loads and rough car trunk drops. The 18 x 14 x 7-inch interior comfortably fit a large towel, flip-flops, snacks, sunscreen, and even a small cooler bag. The machine-washable fabric dried in under two hours—crucial for spontaneous weekend trips. However, the zipper can snag on mesh threads if overstuffed, and the straps, while adjustable, lack padding—a minor discomfort on longer walks.

Against the HOHOM bag, the Iioscre wins on security and ruggedness, offering full-zip protection and higher weight tolerance. It’s the better pick for active families or gym-to-beach commuters who need one bag for multiple roles. While it lacks the HOHOM’s trendy crochet detailing, it outperforms in utility and long-term resilience—delivering premium features at a wallet-friendly cost, making it a smarter buy for practical packers.

Light as a breeze but strong enough to carry a day’s essentials, the iSamzan Straw Beach Bag redefines summer elegance with purpose. Weighing just 250 grams, it’s one of the lightest structured totes in its class—yet supports heavy loads thanks to triple-stitched seams and PU-reinforced straps. The natural straw exterior isn’t just eye-catching; it’s ventilated and sand-resistant, while the polyester lining adds wipe-clean practicality. With a top-zip closure and inner pocket, it offers real security—a rarity in straw bags—making it ideal for resort hops or city strolls where style and safety both matter.

In real use, the bag comfortably carried a 12-inch tablet, large water bottle, towel, and sunscreen without sagging. Its 40 x 35 cm footprint is spacious but not bulky, fitting neatly under airplane seats. The included silk scarf adds a luxury touch, doubling as a hair wrap or neck accessory—perfect for gifting. However, the straw material isn’t waterproof, so rain or soaked swimsuits can stain the exterior. It’s best used with a liner or dry bag inside when handling wet items.

Compared to the YXILEE eco-straw tote, the iSamzan is more compact and travel-focused, trading artisan storytelling for lightweight efficiency. While YXILEE leans into handmade uniqueness, iSamzan delivers reliable, no-fuss functionality—ideal for minimalist travelers or professionals who want a single bag for beach and brunch. It offers greater polish than mesh totes and better protection than open-weave straw, all while being one of the most portable premium options available.

Boho charm meets beach-ready function in the Sightor Crochet Tote, a bag that turns heads while holding everything from sunscreen to a 10-inch tablet. The flat-knit polyester mesh gives it a soft, drapey silhouette that’s both fashion-forward and sand-friendly. Unlike flimsy knits, this one resists deformation and holds its shape under load, thanks to tight, reinforced stitching. With a 15.75 x 14.57-inch interior, it’s spacious enough for beach days or farmers’ market runs, and the 10.6-inch handles make it easy to sling over the shoulder—even when full.

In real-world testing, the bag proved highly breathable, allowing wet swimsuits to air out without trapping moisture. It folded flat into a suitcase with zero residual creases, a win for packability. The open interior is convenient for quick access, but lacks a zip—so valuables need a separate pouch. While it handled light rain without damage, prolonged exposure caused slight water absorption in the knit, meaning it’s best for dry-weather use.

Pitted against the SUOSDEY crochet tote, the Sightor offers similar boho appeal but with less privacy—its full-mesh design means contents are visible. The SUOSDEY’s half-mesh, half-knit base wins for security and modesty, while the Sightor leans into full transparency and breezy aesthetics. It’s best for fashion-focused users who prioritize Instagram-ready looks over discretion and don’t mind carrying a clutch for essentials.

Where wet meets organized, the Fokongna Wet Bag shines as a no-mess solution for damp gear—the kind of unsung hero every summer bag needs. Made from TPU-laminated polyester, it’s fully waterproof, sealing in moisture so your dry clothes stay pristine. At 11.8 x 8.66 x 2 inches, it’s compact but smartly sized for a wet swimsuit, shoes, or used diapers—perfect for pool moms, gym-goers, or travelers who hate soggy suitcase corners. The zipper seal is tight, and the built-in handle lets you hang it in hotel bathrooms or car seats.

Real-world use confirmed its quick-dry, odor-resistant performance—after holding a soaked bikini, it aired out in under an hour with no mildew smell. The fun, colorful prints add personality, making it a great gift for teens or sisters. However, the interior is unlined, so residual water can pool at the bottom, and the flat shape limits bulky items. It’s not a standalone beach bag but an essential companion to one.

Compared to the main totes in this lineup, the Fokongna isn’t meant to replace them—it complements them. While the HOHOM or Iioscre bags carry the load, this one manages the mess. It outshines generic wet bags with better material quality and print variety, making it a smarter upgrade from basic PVC pouches. For anyone who’s ever packed a damp swimsuit in a plastic bag, this is the elegant, reusable alternative that solves a real problem.

Engineered for zero sand tolerance, this sandproof tote is a no-nonsense workhorse that keeps your gear clean, dry, and organized—even on the messiest beach days. The thick, sandproof lining and fold-resistant base mean you can plop it on hot sand without grit invading your wallet or phone. With a 16.5 x 14 x 5.2-inch interior, it holds towels, snacks, sunscreen, and flip-flops with room to spare. Dual side pockets keep water bottles and sunglasses within reach, while the zippered main compartment and inner pocket add much-needed security.

In testing, the bag’s hemp-reinforced handles stayed comfortable under heavy loads, and the smooth zipper never jammed—even after sandy use. The wiped-clean ease made post-beach cleanup a 10-second task. However, the fashion-forward pattern can show water stains on the exterior, and the rigid structure means it doesn’t fold as flat as mesh alternatives—taking up more suitcase space.

Versus the HOHOM bag, this one wins on sand defense and structural integrity, but loses on packability and breathability. It’s the better pick for families with kids, sandy shorelines, or gym commutes, where cleanliness and durability trump foldability. While less breezy than mesh, it offers superior protection and organization, making it a practical upgrade for those who hate sand in their stuff.

Timeless straw elegance meets modern function in this classic tote, a summer staple that pairs effortlessly with maxi dresses, swim cover-ups, or city linen. The 15.75 x 17.72-inch frame offers ample room for a beach towel, book, and water bottle, while the zippered top and interior pocket keep essentials safe—a rare combo in straw bags. The soft, flexible weave drapes comfortably over the shoulder, and the polyester lining resists wear and tear.

In real use, it handled daily beach trips with grace, its lightweight build making it easy to carry all day. The woven texture naturally sheds sand, and the lined interior wipes clean with a damp cloth. However, like most straw bags, it’s not rain-ready—prolonged moisture can warp the material. It’s best used with a dry liner for wet items.

Compared to the iSamzan model, this bag offers similar capacity and zip security, but with a taller, more structured silhouette. It lacks the iSamzan’s folding compactness, but wins on classic summer vibe. Ideal for vacationers who want one bag for beach, market, and dinner, it delivers versatile charm without sacrificing basic protection—a solid middle ground between fashion and function.

Handwoven heritage meets eco-conscious design in the YXILEE Straw Bag, a statement piece that supports sustainable craftsmanship while offering refined summer style. Made from natural paper rope, it’s chemical-free, biodegradable, and uniquely textured—each bag slightly different, a testament to its artisan roots. The textile-lined interior with drawstring closure adds charm and containment, while the 9.84-inch shoulder strap ensures comfortable carry.

In use, the bag felt surprisingly sturdy, handling a tablet, sunscreen, and towel without strain. Its 16.93 x 11.02-inch footprint is perfect for daily essentials, not overstuffed weekends. The eco-materials are delicate to heavy rain, so it’s best for dry, sunny outings. While not the most packable, its story and sustainability elevate it beyond a mere accessory.

Against the iSamzan, the YXILEE trades lightweight efficiency for ethical impact and uniqueness. It’s pricier, but for those who value slow fashion and social responsibility, it’s worth the investment. Ideal for eco-minded travelers or gift-givers, it’s not just a bag—it’s a conversation starter with purpose.

Privacy meets boho beauty in the SUOSDEY Crochet Tote, a smart evolution of the traditional mesh bag. Its half-mesh, half-knit design is a brilliant compromise: the top mesh allows airflow for wet items, while the bottom knit panel keeps contents hidden and secure—no more worrying about coins falling through or strangers seeing your phone. At 15.75 x 23.5 inches, it’s one of the tallest bags here, offering vertical storage that fits magazines, tablets, and tall bottles with ease.

In testing, the 180g lightweight build made it effortless to carry, and the foldable design saved suitcase space. The tight-knit base prevented sand intrusion better than full-mesh rivals, and the washable polyester cleaned up easily. However, the open top means it still lacks a zipper—so wind or tipping could spill items.

Compared to the Sightor crochet tote, the SUOSDEY wins on function and discretion, offering better privacy and structural balance. It’s the ideal pick for style-savvy users who want boho flair without sacrificing modesty or security—a rare blend in the mesh tote world. If you love the look of crochet but hate the exposure, this is your perfect middle ground.