buuk.top / Alexander Huang
With summer just around the corner and many beach days on the horizon, we’re already busy planning our future seaside ensembles. Bikinis, sarongs, and sun hats aside, the most important element of any beach look is the beach bag, which serves not only as the pièce de résistance of your outfit but also a practical way to carry all of your day-at-the-shore-essentials while protecting them from the sun.
Beach bags come in a variety of shapes, styles, and materials, and which is best for you is dependent on what you’re planning to lug along with you. Are you looking for something small and stylish that fits your SPF and sunnies, or are you hauling towels, snacks, and bevs for the whole family? What your bag is crafted from is always important to consider, as is whether or not the design is functional for your particular needs.
Keeping this all in mind, we scoured the internet, read through countless customer reviews, and tapped a team of experts to narrow down the list. Keep reading for the most practical—and stylish!—beach bags to carry this summer.
Dagne Dover Vida Cotton Tote Bag at Nordstrom
Baggu Cloud Tote at Amazon
Everlane Canvas Weekender at Everlane.com
H&M Straw Shopper at Hm.com
Saint Laurent Medium Panier Crochet Straw Tote at Nordstrom
Bembien Large Margot Bag at Bembien.com
Isabel Marant Yenky flocked tie-dyed cotton-canvas tote at Net-a-Porter
Marc Jacobs The Large Mesh Tote Bag at Amazon
Clare V. Sandy Tote at Nordstrom
POPUPS Neoprene Large Tote Bags at Amazon
Expand
Best Overall
Dagne Dover Vida Cotton Tote Bag
Dagne Dover
View On Dagnedover.com
View On Saks Fifth Avenue
This oversized tote from Dagne Dover may not be the *beachiest* of beach bags out there, but we’re giving it top honors for its functionality. Crafted from organic cotton canvas, it’s more durable than your average raffia or straw tote—thus lasting much longer—while the neutral cream shade will match practically anything. It boasts three interior and four exterior pockets to keep you organized, a wipeable interior lining to ensure your bag stays in tip-top condition, and both over-the-shoulder straps and top handles for maximum comfort. It’s no wonder it has so many five-star ratings—as one customer points out, it fits towels, water bottles, sunscreens, and snacks with no problem.
Price at time of publish: $175
Material: 100% organic cotton canvas | Size: 18.5 x 14 x. 6.25 inches | Strap Drop:11 inches; 4.5-inch handle
buuk.top / Alexander Huang
buuk.top / Alexander Huang
buuk.top / Alexander Huang
Best Washable
Baggu Cloud Tote
Amazon
View On Baggu.com
View On Shopbop.com
Whether it’s spilled sunscreen (...or wine) or pesky wet sand that just won’t budge, our beach bags can, admittedly, get dirty pretty quickly. If you’re prone to spills and stains, may we suggest a bag that’s not only durable and practical but also machine washable? We’re loving this style from Baggu, which boasts a trendy pillow-like design yet still packs down to nothing when you’re not using it.
Price at time of publish: $56
Material:
100% recycled nylon | Size: 12.8–21 x 13.8 x 8 inches | Strap Drop: 9.5 inches
buuk.top / Alexander Huang
buuk.top / Alexander Huang
buuk.top / Alexander Huang
Best for Large Families
Everlane The Organic Canvas Weekender
Everlane
Sure, this may technically be designed as a weekender bag, but that doesn’t mean it can’t hit the beach too. Because it’s meant to hold a holiday weekend’s worth of stuff, it’s super durable and can fit the entire family’s beach day needs—think multiple towels, water bottles, and lunch.
Price at time of publish: $110
Material: 100% organic cotton | Size:24 x 15 x 8 inches | Strap Drop: Not listed
buuk.top / Alexander Huang
buuk.top / Alexander Huang
buuk.top / Alexander Huang
Best Budget
H&M Straw Shopper
H&M
If you don’t want to break the bank getting all your beach needs in order, you can’t go wrong with this tote from H&M. While fishing out your card and keys may seem like a logistical nightmare given its size, it includes an interior zipper pocket to keep small items handy. The white colorway makes this the perfect goes-with-anything summer tote.
Price at time of publish: $22
Material:
100% paper (shell), 100% polyester (lining) | Size: Not listed |Strap Drop: Not listed
Best Splurge
Saint Laurent Medium Panier Crochet Straw Tote
Nordstrom
If you’re going to shell out for a beach bag, make it a style that’s both seasonally appropriate and classic—you’ll want it to be as multifunctional as possible and last you years to come, after all. Our pick is this Saint Laurent tote, and Nordstrom’s Head of Editorial and Content Kate Bellman agrees. “I’d use this tote literally every day in the summer months,” she says. “It’s the perfect fusion of rustic and refinement, thanks to the artisanal crochet and leather straps.” Moreover, it’s roomier than most, meaning it can fit a bulky towel and your lunch.
Price at time of publish: $1,750
Material: Straw, leather (trim) | Size: 12 x 12.5 x 11 inches | Strap Drop: 10 inches
Best Straw
Bembien Large Margot Bag
Bembien
View On Madewell.com
Given their relaxed, vacation-ready feel, straw totes are considered the quintessential beach bag—and they boast some real benefits, too. Straw is breathable and lightweight, for one, and it’s also quite water-resistant. We love the above bag from artisan-made label Bembien for its unique weave and luxe leather accents. "This one is my personal go-to summer beach bag,” says founder Yi-Mei Truxes. “It fits absolutely everything you would ever need for the day, has a comfortable fit over the shoulder, and is easy to clean out at the end of the day.” It certainly doesn’t hurt that 10% of all Bembien proceeds go back to the artisan community that weaves each bag.
Price at time of publish: $320
Material: Woven rattan | Size: 18 x 13 x 5 inches |Strap Drop: 10.5 inches
Best Canvas
Isabel Marant Yenky flocked tie-dyed cotton-canvas tote
Net-A-Porter
Canvas totes don’t have to be basic—see Isabel Marants oversized tie-dye variation above. A designer bag minus the designer price tag, it’s punchy enough to be the star of your beach ensemble, and its ultra-spacious interior makes carrying everything (...literally everything) a breeze.
Price at time of publish: $250
Material:
Cotton canvas | Size: 15.7 x 21.3 x 6.7 inches |Strap Drop: 8.7 inches
Best Mesh
Marc Jacobs The Large Mesh Tote Bag
Saks 5th Ave
View On Nordstrom
View On Neiman Marcus
Marc Jacobs’ iconic tote bags have become a staple amongst the fashion set for everything from work to travel to lugging home groceries. However, when it comes to a day at the beach, the sheer mesh iteration is the way to go. Mesh is breathable, allowing your damp beach towel to dry sans any lingering mustiness, and the interior pocket will ensure any personal items are out of plain sight.
Price at time of publish: $295
Material:
Nylon | Size: 16.5 x 13 x 6.75 inches | Strap Drop: 9.75 inches
Best Crochet
Clare V. Sandy Tote
Clare V.
View On Shopbop.com
View On Clarev.com
The crochet trend is still going strong for summer ’23, making it an obvious choice for a beach bag. This chic, slinky bag from Clare V. is an elevated version of the classic netted market tote, complete with knotted leather handles that fit comfortably over the shoulder. It’s not the largest beach bag out there, but if you’re not lugging too much stuff, this is a pretty solid, stylish option. The neutral hues will match whatever you pair it with, but if you want something that packs more of a punch, it comes in emerald green, too.
Price at time of publish: $145
Material:
Cotton, leather handles |Size: 11 x 15.25 x 1.25 inches | Strap Drop: 11 inches
Best Neoprene
POPUPS Neoprene Large Tote Bags
Amazon
Neoprene is naturally water-resistant, making it a great choice for the beach, especially if you plan to take a dip. This tote is crafted from a perforated neoprene material, ensuring it’s also lightweight and breathable—an ideal bag for toting home damp towels and bathing suits. Bonus points for also being machine washable and coming in a fun variety of colors.
Price at time of publish: $105
Material:
Neoprene | Size: 15 x 12 x 10 inches | Strap Drop: Not listed
Best Printed
Sensi Studio Split Personality Canasta Tote
Shopbop
If you’re seeking a printed bag that won’t clash with the contents of your swim drawer, look no further than this top-handle tote from Sensi Studio. The zigzag pattern adds an air of excitement to your full look, but its neutral beiges and tans nicely pair with any swimsuit, no matter its color or print. Because this one doesn’t fit over the shoulder, we recommend packing light and pulling it out when you’ll be relaxing in a beach cabana or a poolside lounge chair.
Price at time of publish: $210
Material:
Woven raffia | Size: 10.25 x 12.5 x 6.75 inches |Strap Drop: 4.25 inches
Best Statement
AAKS Ooro Oak Bag
Madewell
If you’re in the market for a truly show-stopping beach accessory, opt for this dreamy fringe-adorned tote from AAKS. Crafted by talented female weavers in Ghana, the brand’s striking raffia statement bags are durable, to boot.
Price at time of publish: $300
Material:
Raffia, leather (handle), and linen (lining) |Size: 40 x 42 centimeters | Strap Drop: Not listed
Best Small
Loewe Small Logo Straw Tote
Nordstrom
Sometimes you don’t need to carry more than your phone and SPF for a day at the beach, thus not requiring a beach bag of gargantuan proportions. Enter this Loewe basket, a bite-size version of its popular straw tote. According to Bellman, this one is a worthy investment: “Although only introduced a few years ago, the Loewe straw tote has already gained icon status—and it comes in a variety of sizes.”
Price at time of publish: $550
Material:
Palm leaf straw, calfskin leather (trim) |Size: 9 x 7 x 5.5 inches | Strap Drop: Not listed
Best Wide
Brother Vellies Sailboat Basket Tote
Nordstrom
View On Lyst.com
View On Saks Fifth Avenue
Simply put, this basket tote by Brother Vellies is peak summer fashion. Crafted from straw and leather, the wide boat-shaped silhouette is exceptionally spacious, easily fitting a day’s worth of necessities, whether you’re headed to the shore, the farmer’s market, or a picnic. But keep in mind, this one won’t easily fold away into a suitcase, so you’ll want to reserve this one for local trips only.
Price at time of publish: $450
Material:
Straw, leather (trim) | Size: 9.5 x 11 x 9.5 inches | Strap Drop: 5.5 inches
Best Water-Resistant
lululemon On My Level Bag
Lululemon
Want a bag that can not only withstand a damp towel but also a sudden tropical rainstorm? This versatile bag from Lululemon has you covered. Designed with a water-repellent fabric, it’ll keep your beach essentials nice and dry…a trustworthy option to house your portable speaker and phone. What’s more, in addition to top handles, the bag includes an adjustable, detachable strap that can be slung over the shoulder or worn crossbody.
Price at time of publish: $128
Material:
100% recycled nylon (body), 100% recycled polyester mesh (lining), and 100% polyester (trim) |Size: 12 x 14 x 9.5 inches | Strap Drop: Not listed; adjustable
Best Crossbody
Gunes Check Tote
Shopbop
View On Shopbop.com
Sometimes you want to be truly hands-free, which is where crossbody beach bags come into play. This adorable number from Gunes is not only spacious enough to fit a rolled-up beach towel and water bottle, but it hits two major trends: crochet and checkerboard print. Factor in the affordable price tag, and it’s a no-brainer.
Price at time of publish: $80
Material:
Crochet fabric from T-shirt scraps; textile lining | Size: 14.25 x 12.5 inches | Strap Drop: 15.75 inches
Best Backpack
L*Space Summer Days Backpack
Revolve
View On Revolve
View On Sunandski.com
When you want the ease of a hands-free (and evenly weighted) carry-all without sacrificing the beachy vibes of a straw or raffia bag, look no further than L*Space. The perfect companion for a boardwalk bike ride, this woven backpack can fit a day’s worth of beach essentials and then some.
Price at time of publish: $130
Material: Woven straw (exterior), poly fabric (lining), and canvas (straps) |Size: 16 x 13.5 x 6.5 inches | Strap Drop: 4.5 inches
Best Packable
CALPAK Compakt Tote Bag
Calpak
While we love a woven basket bag as much as the next person, when it comes to packing for a faraway beach destination, sometimes a structured straw or raffia tote just isn’t practical. Especially when you’re tight on suitcase space, we recommend opting for something slouchy that packs down tiny. These compact totes from CALPAK collapse into themselves for easy packing or storing, yet are surprisingly spacious. Plus, the durable, water-resistant ripstop fabric comes in the cutest variety of prints.
Price at time of publish: $35
Material:
Nylon exterior; polyester interior | Size: 21 x 20 x 6 inches | Strap Drop: 11 inches
Final Verdict
Hands down, Dagne Dover’s Vida Large Tote is our top choice due to its functionality. It’s durable, easy to clean, boasts plenty of storage and pockets, and its pared-down, timeless design will pair with anything in your closet. If you want something with a beachier feel, you can’t go wrong with Bembien’s Large Margot Bag, a spacious raffia and leather style, or for an extra wallet-friendly option, the roomy H&M Large Straw Shopper. If you’re looking to invest in a designer piece you’ll wear for years, look no further than Saint Laurent’s Medium Panier Crochet Straw Tote. It’s certainly splurgy at $1,750, but it’s also quite timeless.
Meet the Expert
Yi-Mei Truxes is the founder of the artisan-made bag label Bembien.
What to Look for in a Beach Bag
Material
“When it comes to choosing material, it’s important to identify the end use for the bag,” says Bellman. “Straw and raffia are a great choice for summer accessories as they’re breathable, lightweight, generally waterproof, and can withstand both sun and swim elements.” Truxes also recommends straw if you’re planning to be by water often, as its breathability will help prevent condensation from wet towels, sand, and sunscreen from building up. However, if you know you’re going to be hard on your beach bag, Bellman recommends nylon, which is easy to care for and will dry quickly should it get wet. Planning to lug a lot with you? Opt for something durable and sturdy like canvas, she adds.
Strap and Handle Drop
While shape and size are likely the first thing you’ll look at when choosing between beach bags, the strap drop measurement, or the distance between the top of the strap or handle to the top of the bag, is one of the most important design elements to keep in mind. “It will ultimately determine how comfortable the bag fits on your shoulder and arm, where the bag falls on your body, and how exactly it complements your silhouette,” says Truxes. In general, you’ll want a bag that comfortably fits under your arm, even when stuffed to capacity, says Bellman. “A top-handle bag may be great for a walk down the boardwalk or nights out, but one with a long, durable shoulder strap is essential, especially for a commute or if you need to stay hands-free,” she says.
Functionality
Bellman stresses the importance of choosing a beach bag that’s entirely functional—think interior and/or exterior pockets or bags that come with a separate zipper pouch, especially if the style is on the larger side. “This is key, preventing your items from falling into the handbag black hole,” she says. The depth of the bag is also an important factor to consider, adds Truxes, as this will also determine its functionality. A very flat design likely won’t fit a large towel and a chunky portable speaker comfortably or without damaging the bag’s shape, even if its height and width are on the longer side.
Style
While functionality is king, style still does matter. “Ask yourself what you’re using this bag for and how does feel when you put it on?” suggests Truxes. “A beach bag should feel like a natural extension of yourself,” she says, adding that it should stylistically fit what you need it for in addition to fitting your style.
Anything you want, but don’t forget the most important items: your favorite SPF, and additional sun protection like a breezy long-sleeve button-down or a packable sun hat, especially if you won’t be lounging under an umbrella. If you’re not at a resort or hotel where the essentials are provided, you’ll want to pack a beach towel, plenty of water, and some snacks. However, as mentioned above, be mindful of the bag’s material and whether or not it’s the best choice for what you plan to pack. Anything too heavy can crack or break a structured straw tote, so you may want to opt for something more durable, like canvas if you plan to bring a lot. If you’re packing anything that creates a lot of condensation (like canned drinks), these are best stored in something water-resistant, like nylon, and contain pockets or pouches to keep items like your phone dry.
When it comes to storing straw or raffia bags, both Truxes and Bellman recommend storing them somewhere away from high humidity: “Keep them somewhere dry and cool,” says Truxes. “Ideally, it’s somewhere dark, as prolonged sun exposure will cause straw to get overly brittle and crack.” It’s also a great idea to stuff a structured straw bag to ensure it maintains its shape while in storage. “Stuff them with either the dust bag they came in or another fluffy item, like a sweatshirt,” adds Bellman.
However, when it comes to fabric beach bags—think cotton canvas or washable nylon—you can be a bit more lax. “These can be hung right on your coat rack or entryway hooks, making them a great grab-and-go option,” says Bellman.
Why Trust buuk.top
buuk.top contributor Jenna Igneri has been working in fashion and beauty media for over a decade and has written for publications such as Refinery29, WhoWhatWear, The Zoe Report, Vice, Coveteur, and more. To source the best beach bags the internet has to offer, she read through countless reviews and tapped experts to share their insights.
According to our Diversity Pledge, 15 percent of products in our newly published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find enough beach bags from Black-owned and/or Black-founded businesses to meet this percentage. If you know of some we should consider, please email us at contact@buuk.top.com, and we will evaluate the product ASAP.
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