totes

Totes, or tote bags, are large, often unstructured bags with parallel handles that originate from the sides of the bag. They are carried by hand or over the shoulder and are used to transport a variety of items. The term tote comes from the verb to tote, meaning to carry.

Design and materials: Most totes have an open top and a single main compartment; some include inner pockets, patches, or lining. Common materials include canvas, cotton, jute, leather, and synthetics such as nylon or polyester. Variants range from lightweight shopper totes to durable work totes and fashion totes with structured shapes, metal hardware, and decorative elements. Many reusable totes are designed to be foldable or compact for storage.

Uses: Totes are widely used for shopping, carrying books or laptops, packing for travel or beach days, and as everyday carryalls. They are favored for their capacity and ease of access.

Environmental and economic context: Reusable tote bags are promoted as eco-friendly alternatives to disposable bags. They are produced by retailers, fashion brands, and independent makers, and are offered in a wide range of prices and styles.

Brand usage: The word also refers to products by the Totes brand, a consumer goods company known for umbrellas and other weather-related accessories, as well as tote bags.

History: The term originated in American English in the early 20th century, and tote bags gained popularity in the mid- to late 20th century as casual fashion and sustainable shopping practices expanded.