The Ultimate Guide to Canvas Tote Bags
Canvas tote bags should be well-constructed with sturdy features, not weak and flimsy. The last thing you need is a tote’s bottom falling out or a torn strap. It could ruin your day, maybe even your trip.
What makes the best canvas tote? Whether it’s a tote to act as your everyday carry or to haul gear to basecamp, we’ll steer you down the right path. Here’s the ultimate tote bag guide, breaking down everything you need to know, including various tote bag styles, long-lasting tote bag materials, and how to keep your canvas tote clean and well-maintained.
The Ultimate Guide to Canvas Tote Bags
Canvas tote bags are extremely well-constructed and durable, making them capable of carrying heavy loads of gear, tools, produce, and more. And, typically made of cotton canvas, it also means they’re eco-friendly and reusable. And, while there are numerous canvas tote bag styles to choose from, each offering extra touches to suit its intended use, at its core, a canvas tote is a versatile, multi-purpose carrier for almost anything. In this guide, we break down the must-have materials and features, provide general care tips, and offer tote bag styles and ideas to inspire you.
Quality Materials & Features to Look for in a Canvas Tote Bag
A well-constructed canvas tote bag should be sturdy enough to hold a significant amount of weight and take on a beating. So pay attention to those small details and features, as they provide functionality, purpose, and strengthen a tote bag’s durability. Here is what you might come across:
Heavyweight cotton canvas: At a minimum, the canvas material should be of a substantial weight. A tightly woven, heavy-duty canvas will make it abrasion-resistant. Heavy-grade canvas, similar to the beefy 18 oz. canvas used on classic Beckel duffel bags, is optimal.
Water-repellant coating: Some canvas tote bags feature a water-resistant treatment. While it’s not necessary, it’s a nice-to-have feature for those who live in wetter climates or plan to use their tote for activities that come into contact with moisture and water (such as fishing or hunting).
(Note: Waxed canvas is an option in some canvas totes. The waxed or oiled treatment provides a water-resistant coating that sheds water.)
Reinforced seams and webbing: Inspect the threads and stitching on canvas totes for reinforcement. Look for double-stitched seams and extra-reinforced webbing along handles and straps, as well as heavier threads made of nylon. This ensures your loaded canvas bag holds together under the stress of heavy loads.
Thick, wide straps: Aside from having reinforced seams and stitching, choose thick and wide straps and handles that offer extra support and a comfortable grip when carrying – a useful touch when using your tote as a carry-on bag or luggage.
Extra pockets: Inner and outer pockets are perfect for organizing small or loose items. Again, a nice touch for those quick grab-and-go moments when running errands or going through airport security.
Zippers: If your haul needs extra protection and security, top zippers are a handy feature to keep items from spilling out.
Rivets/grommets: You can often find extra rivets or grommets that act as tie-down supports – a convenient feature for securing canvas totes to truck beds, bikes, or saddles.
Canvas Tote Bag Styles for Daily Errands & the Outdoors
Canvas tote bags are extremely durable and versatile. Their multi-purpose compartments and holsters make them perfect for running everyday errands and storing tools and outdoor gear. Scan the list below for a little inspiration. It might spark an idea on how you could make use of a canvas tote in your own life.
Grocery and market tote bags
Grocery tote bags are great for those farmer’s market produce hauls or simply carrying and sorting camp meals to basecamp. For these everyday errands, ensure it’s constructed with a sturdy bottom and reinforced straps to support heavier loads.
A beach tote bag should be roomy and made from durable canvas material that can withstand the sand. Consider a spacious interior to fit bulk objects like towels, snacks, and other beach-day essentials.
Travel tote bags and work tote bags
For traveling on vacation or commuting to and from work, there are specific features a tote bag should have. Compartments and pockets for laptops and travel essentials help keep you organized.
As mentioned above, one must-have feature for travel totes is a zippered top. Another? An airline-approved carry-on-friendly size.
Hunting gear tote bags
Hunters find tote bags beneficial for keeping their gear at the ready. Pack a hunting gear tote with ammunition and shells, scopes, eye/ear protection, targets, camouflage clothing, and other necessary equipment when heading to deer camp or the blind. Think durable and padded features to help protect your hunting gear – even at the range.
Camp and field tote bags
Organize your camping gear, cookware supplies, first aid kits, and other camp and field accessories. Keep lanterns and headlamps in one area, and extra bungees, rope, or carabiners in another.
Basic Care Tips for Canvas Tote Bags
Canvas tote bags are relatively easy to clean and maintain. It’s this simple:
Give the tote a shake occasionally, loosening any dust bunnies or debris from the button.
Spot clean stains with water and mild soap, air-drying naturally in the sun (similar to canvas tents). Avoid washing machines and dryers, as this could cause color bleeding, misshaping and shrinkage to the canvas material.
Re-waterproof or re-wax the canvas if you prefer. (Beckel canvas totes are not treated with wax, but it’s possible to add it!)
Clean zippers with a soft-bristle toothbrush from time to time to keep them running smoothly.
The Most Rugged Canvas Tote Bags
When it comes to totes that can take on everything from a supplies run to a backcountry camping trip, craftsmanship and features definitely matter. Otherwise, you might find it bursting at the seams and your gear falling out everywhere. Nobody wants that.
If you’re looking for high-quality canvas tote bags that can withstand anything and last a lifetime, check out Beckel Canvas tote bags. Made of the same tough-as-nails canvas and stitching as our rugged outfitter and hunting wall tents, you know these bags are built to handle real loads, whether it's for an everyday carry bag, wine bottle sling, or a satchel for cross-country adventures. Plus, Beckel Canvas bags are hand-crafted right here in Portland, Oregon, USA.