Best Beach Bags and Totes

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Every time I pack for a beach vacation, I’m so focused on making sure I have enough sunscreen, snacks, and books to read that I always seem to forget that I need something to tote them all to the shore in. The wheels of my carry-on aren’t exactly sand-compatible. Before my next coastal getaway, it’s time to get a beach bag that I’m excited to pack. Lucky for me—and you!—this summer’s selection is just so fun.

You really can’t go wrong with a classic straw bag that’s big enough for your towel, some summer reads, and all the other beach day essentials you’ll need for a day spent seaside or poolside.

There are some that can easily pair with an off-the-shoulder frock and heels for sunset cocktails. And some that can survive an accidental dip at high tide—we’re big proponents of the beachside nap; crashing waves are nature’s original white sound machine.

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L.L.Bean Boat and Tote

Courtesy of L.L. Bean

This classic canvas tote is the perfect shape to hold beach towels and other necessities.

To buy: llbean.com, from $25

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Seafolly Essential Stripe Beach Tote

Courtesy of Seafolly

This woven tote is made from 100 percent cotton, so it's durable enough for all your outdoor adventures.

To buy: seafolly.com, $78

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O'Neill Oz Bound Jute Tote

Courtesy of Nordstrom

This sturdy, structured jute tote is spacious enough for all your beach essentials.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $50

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Hotshine Cotton Mesh Shopping Bags

Courtesy of Amazon

These cotton mesh bags come in a set of five, so you can use one for the beach, another for the grocery store, and maybe even give a few away to friends.

To buy: amazon.com, $15 for set of five

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Madewell Straw Beach Tote Bag

Courtesy of Madewell

This bag makes for exceptionally easy carrying since it has two handle lengths.

To buy: madewell.com, $78

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Banana Republic Large Straw Tote Bag

Courtesy of Banana Republic

You can't go wrong with this classic straw tote with vegan leather handles.

To buy: bananarepublic.com, $49 (originally $98)

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BAGGU Cloud Bag

Courtesy of Baggu

This bag is extremely lightweight, so you can easily fill it up with a beach towel, book, sunscreen, and more.

To buy: baggu.com, $52

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FITFORT Mesh Beach Tote Bag

Courtesy of Amazon

This bag comes with a detachable cooler, so it makes it easier than ever to take your favorite cold drinks and snacks to the beach.

To buy: amazon.com, from $36

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Anthropologie Caspian Tote

Courtesy of Anthropologie

The colorful beaded handles on this straw tote make it stylish enough to bring from a day at the beach to a night out.

To buy: anthropologie.com, $88

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Rothy's The Reversible Tote

Courtesy of Rothy's

This spacious tote is reversible, and has a different color on each side, so it's almost like having two bags in one.

To buy: rothys.com, $175

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L.L.Bean Insulated Tote

For beach picnics, an insulated tote that will keep your food nice and cool is an absolute must.

To buy: llbean.com, $79

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Anthropologie Market Tote

Courtesy of Anthropologie

Another picnic must, this market tote has handy pockets for all your snacks and accessories.

To buy: anthropologie.com, $68

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This Summer’s Best Beach Bags and Totes

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L.L.Bean Boat and Tote

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Seafolly Essential Stripe Beach Tote

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O'Neill Oz Bound Jute Tote

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Hotshine Cotton Mesh Shopping Bags

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Madewell Straw Beach Tote Bag

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Banana Republic Large Straw Tote Bag

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BAGGU Cloud Bag

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FITFORT Mesh Beach Tote Bag

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Anthropologie Caspian Tote

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Rothy's The Reversible Tote

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L.L.Bean Insulated Tote

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Anthropologie Market Tote

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