Finding the right canvas tote bag is like scoring the perfect pair of jeans – it should fit your life, look good and handle whatever you throw at it.
Whether you’re lugging around textbooks, hauling your laptop to work, or just someone who likes to be prepared, a sturdy canvas tote will never steer you wrong. Say goodbye to flimsy bags that fold under pressure; canvas totes are built to last and come in a range of styles to suit your personality.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best canvas tote bags on the market, considering factors like size, style, durability and price. Whether you’re after a timeless classic or a trendy statement piece, we’ve got you covered.
What is a canvas tote bag?
A canvas tote bag is a versatile and durable bag made from canvas, a sturdy woven fabric.
Often used for shopping, beach trips, or everyday errands, these bags typically feature two handles for easy carrying. They come in various sizes, styles and colours, making them not only practical but also fashionable.
Canvas totes are also eco-friendly alternatives to plastic bags, and many are designed to be washable so that they stay fresh and ready for any outing.
2024’s top canvas tote bags
- Country Road Australian Cotton Heritage zip canvas tote, $79.95, Myer (here’s why)
- Lululemon two-tone canvas tote bag mini, $129, Lululemon (here’s why)
- ASOS DESIGN oversized heavyweight canvas tote bag, $30, ASOS (here’s why)
The best canvas tote bags in 2024
01
Country Road Australian Cotton Heritage zip canvas tote
$79.95 at Myer
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
02
Lululemon two-tone canvas tote bag mini
$129 at Lululemon
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
03
ASOS DESIGN oversized heavyweight canvas tote bag
$30 at ASOS
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
04
July Everyday large tote
$175 at July
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
05
Hommey tote bag
$49 at Hommey
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
06
Marc Jacobs The Canvas medium tote bag
$380 at The Iconic
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
07
Coach Willow tote in signature canvas
$695 at Coach Australia
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
08
Typo Art tote bag
$24.99 at Cotton On
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
09
Large Dior Toujours bag
$6600 at Dior
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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