9 canvas tote bags that will handle anything life throws at you

Best for: errands, gym trips and getaways

Made from 100 per cent cotton, this spacious tote features a zip closure to keep everything safe and secure. It’s available in a range of chic colours that pair effortlessly with any outfit, while reinforced handles and a removable crossbody strap make it easy to carry. Wherever you’re going, this tote has got your back – and your belongings!

“Great sized bag,” wrote a five-star reviewer. “Fits everything for a weekend away. Used it also for travelling overseas and had no issues. The colour is very pretty and is easy to keep clean.”

Colours: navy, black, pebble, dark pistachio and pink meringue

Material: 100% cotton

Key features:

• Zip closure
• External slip pocket
• Webbing straps
• Removable crossbody strap
• Reinforced handles

Also available at:

• $79.95 at Country Road
• $79.95 at David Jones
• $79.95 at The Iconic

Best for: quick trips to the market or lunch with friends

This structured mini bag is crafted from a two-tone canvas that’s as practical as it is chic. With a clever design that keeps its shape, it’s perfect for staying organised without sacrificing style.

Colours: anchor/light ivory/black, Mojave tan/light ivory, and grey eucalyptus/light ivory

Materials: 54% cotton/46% recycled polyester body, 100% recycled polyester lining

Key features:

• Removable, adjustable shoulder strap
• Front pocket
• Clip a nano pack or keychain onto the D-ring
• Snap closure
• Zippered interior pocket
• Interior drop-in pocket

Best for: hauling everything from your laptop to groceries

Made from a sturdy, lightly textured canvas, this oversized bag is built to last. The open-top design means you can grab what you need in a flash, and the external slip pockets are perfect for stashing your bits and bobs.

Colours: black, neutral, grey, sage green, red and burgundy

Materials: 61% polyester, 34% cotton, 5% viscose

Key features:

• Sturdy, lightly textured canvas
• Minimalist design
• Twin handles
• Open top
• External slip pockets

Best for: the office, impromptu adventures or weekend outings

The July Everyday tote isn’t just a pretty face. It has a machine-washable design that easily handles spills and scuffs, with a roomy interior that fits your 16-inch laptop, a few snacks and even a jumper if your office still feels like an icebox in summer. With smart pockets for your items, you can even forget the frantic key-search at the end of a long day.

“I absolutely love how I can fit so much and then zip it up, even my water bottle which I’m so used to carrying separately,” said a reviewer who left five stars. “Also I love that everything is accessible at a glance. No digging or rummaging because I can see everything. Perfect teacher bag, and the personalisation is a nice touch.”

Colours: natural, dark brown, butter yellow, black and soft grey; and limited-edition colours light blue, biscuit and merlot

Materials: 100% cotton with a TPU coating and 100% cotton webbing

Key features:

• Machine washable
• Choose shoulder straps or top handles
• Secure top zip closure
• Detachable drink bottle holder
• Special pocket for laptop
• Personalise for an extra $65

Best for: sunny days at the beach or pool

Crafted from 100 per cent structured cotton and designed in Melbourne, this summer tote has a handy in-built pocket, so you’ll never have to search for your sunnies or SPF again. Choose from five chic muted colours and get ready to enjoy a fun day in the sun!

“Super cute bag,” said a five-star reviewer. “It’s the perfect size to hold all my stuff for the beach. The pocket on the side is really handy to hold my keys and phone so they don’t get lost at the bottom of the bag. 10/10 would recommend!”

Colours: sunflower, olive, berry, duke and latte

Material: 100% structured cotton

Key features:

• Easy care with machine washable fabric
• Convenient in-built pocket
• Ethically produced and 100 per cent vegan
• 30-day hassle-free returns

Best for: adding a chic touch to your outfit

The Marc Jacobs medium tote is a fresh spin on the brand’s classic look. With a zip-fastened main compartment and handy hanging pockets, it’s got everything you need for busy days and weekend escapes. Plus, the fixed top handles and adjustable shoulder strap make it comfortable to carry around for hours at a time.

Colours: black, black & citrine, wisteria and beige

Material: durable canvas

Key features:

• Fixed top handles for easy carrying
• Zip-fastened main compartment
• Convenient hanging zip and slip pockets
• Detachable, adjustable shoulder strap

Also available at:

• $380 at FARFETCH
• $380 at David Jones

Best for: daily commutes, work and events

Willow is the ideal tote for carrying your essentials, perfectly sized to be just right – not too big, not too small. Made from a blend of Signature canvas and refined leather, it has two open pockets and a secure centre zip compartment. With slender shoulder straps designed for comfort over thicker clothes and a stylish turn lock closure, it can easily fit a 13-inch laptop.

Materials: signature coated canvas and refined leather

Key features:

• Centre zip compartment
• Turnlock and magnetic snap closures
• Comfortable shoulder straps with a 29cm drop
• Fits up to a 13-inch laptop
• Four protective feet at the base

Also available at:

• $695 at David Jones

Best for: budget-friendly style on the go

If you’re a student, artist, or vlogger constantly on the move, this is the bag for you. It has a roomy main compartment, a side pocket for your drink bottle and plenty of room for your laptop or other belongings. With various prints and colours available, you can also choose a look that matches your unique vibe.

One reviewer wrote: “I like the design of the tote bag and appreciate the water bottle pocket on the side. I have another one of these tote bags in a cream colour and love it for work. I got another one in black for daily carry, and it’s great because it’s made of good material, is large enough, and even has this mini loose pocket inside.”

Another added: “Always wanted a tote bag that was big enough to put shopping and resistant enough to not feel heavy or rip with its weight. Found this one on sale. Love the inside pocket – enough for your phone and outside pocket for a small water bottle. Perfect bag. Stylish too.”

Colours: split ditsy welsh slate, candy stripe ecru and blue, olive, merlot and ballet blush gingham

Material: 100% cotton

Key features:

• Spacious main compartment
• Side pocket for drink bottle
• Internal pocket for essentials
• Available in various prints and colours

Best for: treating yourself to luxury

The Dior Toujours bag is the epitome of casual elegance, made from latte canvas and featuring a stunning silhouette inspired by the Eiffel Tower. With its generous design, complete with a matching pouch, it’s perfect for anyone who likes stepping out in style – especially if you have some cash to splash.

Materials: latte canvas with a suede interior

Key features:

• Latte canvas with Eiffel Tower silhouette
• Spacious interior with removable pouch
• Double closure: lace-through strap and CD lock clasp
• Adjustable leather handles
• Accommodates a 15-inch laptop
• Includes dust bag
• Made in Italy

Is canvas good for a tote bag?

Yes, canvas is great for tote bags! It’s durable, easy to clean and comes in various colours and patterns. Plus, it’s lightweight yet strong, making it ideal for carrying the stuff you can’t live without.

What are the disadvantages of a canvas tote bag?

Canvas bags are a stylish and sturdy choice for everyday use, but they do have some drawbacks (or slight quirks).

They can show dirt and stains more easily than some materials, and while many are machine washable, not all are. Canvas isn’t waterproof, so you’ll want to keep an eye on the weather if you’re carrying anything sensitive. Plus, they tend to be a bit heavier than synthetic options.

With a little care, though, your canvas tote can stay looking great and serve you well for years.

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• The 6 best tote bags: Stylish and functional buys for every occasion
• The best crossbody bags to shop this season
• Four stylish sneakers to add to your fitness regime