These Classic Customizable Canvas Totes Are Going Viral — and They're the Perfect Travel Summer Bags

Many shoppers are customizing them in fun, unexpected ways.

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L.L. Bean Lands' End canvas tote bags
Photo: Courtesy of L.L. Bean, Land's End

The classic canvas tote has been a staple in many travelers' wardrobes for decades thanks to its durability, large packing capacity, and affordable price point. But this style has recently gained popularity with a new generation after going viral on social media. It first started blowing up on TikTok a few months ago after content creators like @jesicaelise and @aileciajones accessorized their stylish outfits with the versatile bags.

More recently, the carryalls are gaining traction online again after user @graciewiener posted videos proclaiming her passion for canvas totes that are customized with cheeky, unexpected sayings like "gaslighter," "egomaniac," and "maneater," instead of the usual monogram we've come to expect to see on these iconic bags.

She's even gone so far as to create an Instagram account called @ironicboatandtote that has quickly racked up over 13,000 followers. The page showcases photos of both L.L.Bean Boat and Tote Bags and Lands' End Canvas Tote Bags that have quirky sayings embroidered on them. Hundreds of people have also submitted their own suggestions or screenshots of their orders, all of which have been saved in the account's highlights in case you are looking for some inspiration of your own.

The L.L.Bean Boat and Tote Bag comes in both open-top and zippered styles. There are four sizes to choose from; the small is the perfect size for daily activities, while the extra-large version makes a great carry-on bag (its handles have been wear tested to hold up to 500 pounds). You can also opt for regular top handles or long handles if you prefer to carry it as a shoulder bag.

L.L.Bean Boat and Tote Zip Top Medium Bag

L.L. Bean canvas tote bag
Courtesy of L.L. Bean

To buy: llbean.com, $40

L.L.Bean Boat and Tote Open Top Large Bag

L.L. Bean canvas tote bag
Courtesy of L.L. Bean

To buy: llbean.com, $35

Meanwhile, Lands' End version of the classic canvas tote also comes in zip-top and open-top styles, and there are four sizes and seven colors available. In addition to up to 10 characters for customization, Lands' End lets you choose from a variety of symbols like boats, animals, food, flags, and more, as well for an extra personal touch.

Lands' End Medium Natural Zip Top Canvas Tote Bag

Lands' End canvas tote bag
Courtesy of Lands' End

To buy: landsend.com, $28 with code CABIN (originally $39)

Perhaps best of all, they are actually affordable too! L.L.Bean's options range in price from $25 to $50, and Lands' End's styles are on sale right now and range from $20 to $38. Just remember that adding a personalization will cost an additional $8 on both brands. No matter which bag or customization you choose, you're definitely going to want to have a canvas tote in your rotation this summer.

Lands' End Medium Open Top Canvas Tote Bag

Lands' End canvas tote bag
Courtesy of Lands' End

To buy: landsend.com, $28 with code CABIN (originally $39)

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