7 Best Carry-on Tote Bags of 2026

The Foldie Large Travel Tote bursts onto the scene with a 35L expandable capacity and high-density waterproof wet pocket, making it a standout for travelers who hate soggy gym clothes or damp swimsuits ruining their clean gear. This airplane-friendly duffel doesn’t just promise organization—it delivers, with three internal and four external pockets that turn chaos into order. Whether you’re rushing through security or unpacking at a weekend Airbnb, the trolley sleeve and thoughtful layout solve the universal pain point of juggling luggage and personal items.

In real-world testing, the 41×37×22cm expanded dimensions comfortably fit a week’s worth of summer clothing, toiletries, tech, and even a small shoe pair—without pushing airline limits. The waterproof polyester fabric shrugs off rain and spills, while the wet pocket keeps damp items fully isolated. However, on uneven terrain or crowded subway platforms, the fixed shoulder strap lacks padding, making shoulder carry a bit taxing over long distances. It excels as a gym-to-gate companion, but isn’t ideal for extended hikes or heavy loads.

Compared to the sleeker BAGSMART puffer tote, the Foldie trades some style for raw utility and best-in-class wet-dry separation. It’s the go-to for frequent flyers, fitness enthusiasts, and weekenders who prioritize function over fashion. While not the lightest option, its rugged build and expandability offer more value than similarly priced rivals—especially when wet gear management is non-negotiable.

Meet the HYC00 Travel Duffel, a lightweight 30L powerhouse that redefines what a budget-friendly tote can do. Weighing next to nothing and built with tear- and water-resistant fabric, it’s engineered for the minimalist traveler who refuses to sacrifice durability. The removable adjustable strap adds versatility—carry it as a crossbody, shoulder bag, or hand tote—while the dry-wet separated design ensures damp towels won’t ruin your dry clothes. It’s the perfect fix for those tired of soggy gym bags and disorganized overnighters.

During airport trials, the 10.63×21.65×7.09-inch profile slipped easily under seats and into overhead bins, meeting most carry-on standards with room to spare. The six organized pockets kept essentials like phones, keys, and boarding passes within reach, and the main compartment handled a 3–5 day trip’s worth of clothing with ease. On the downside, the wet pocket isn’t fully sealed, so heavily soaked items can still transfer moisture. It’s best suited for light travelers and gym-goers, not those hauling heavy or fully drenched gear.

When stacked against the Foldie, the HYC00 wins on weight and portability but loses out on capacity and waterproofing rigor. It’s a smarter pick than bulkier models for urban commuters, students, and light packers who value a no-fuss, go-anywhere bag. While it lacks premium finishes, its simple, functional design delivers solid performance where it counts—especially for those who move fast and pack light.

The MIAOJIE Underseat Carry On Tote is a masterclass in compact efficiency, engineered to dominate the tight quarters of budget airlines like Spirit and Frontier. At 16×8×11 inches, it’s built to fit snugly under the seat, eliminating carry-on fees and gate-check stress. Its 23L capacity may sound modest, but with seven smartly placed pockets—including a dedicated tablet sleeve and side bottle holders—it maximizes every inch. This is the ultimate weapon for travelers who hate hauling luggage or paying extra fees.

In real-world use, the Oxford cloth construction proved impressively resilient against scuffs, spills, and repeated folding. The adjustable shoulder straps and soft handles made it comfortable for extended carry, whether walking through terminals or riding public transit. It handled a two-day trip’s essentials with ease: clothes, toiletries, tech, and even a camera. However, the main compartment lacks internal dividers, making it easy for items to shift during transit—requiring extra organization effort.

Compared to the BAGSMART puffer tote, it’s less about style and more about airline compliance and underseat practicality. It’s the clear winner for ultra-light packers, business commuters, and budget-conscious flyers who need a reliable personal item. While not as spacious as expandable rivals, its precision sizing and airline-specific design offer unmatched value for those dodging baggage fees—making it a smarter long-term investment than bulkier, less targeted options.

The TOPBAG Coral Pink Duffle punches far above its budget-friendly price tag, delivering a 18.5×14.2×8.5-inch carry-on that’s both stylish and shockingly functional. At just 1.3 lbs, it’s featherlight yet built with high-density waterproof material that stands up to rain, spills, and rough handling. The trolley sleeve and multiple exterior compartments make it a breeze to attach to luggage or stash a water bottle and phone. It’s the ideal solution for travelers who want a no-frills, all-function bag without breaking the bank.

In testing, the spacious main compartment easily held 3–5 days of clothing, a laptop, and toiletries—perfect for weekend trips or hospital stays. The softside design and comfortable straps made shoulder carry pleasant, even when fully loaded. However, the zippers feel slightly flimsy under heavy use, and the interior lacks padding for delicate items. It’s best for short trips and casual use, not for frequent flyers needing rugged reliability.

Versus the HYC00, the TOPBAG offers larger dimensions and better external storage, but with slightly less refined materials. It’s the top pick for budget-focused travelers, new moms packing for labor, or students needing a multipurpose tote. While it doesn’t match premium models in durability, its low cost and high utility make it a standout value—especially when you need a dependable bag without the premium price.

The BAGSMART Expandable Puffer Tote earns its title as the Best Overall with a 22L to 28L expandable design that adapts to your load like a pro. The quilted, water-resistant fabric not only looks premium but wipes clean with ease—perfect for rainy commutes or messy gym trips. Inside, thoughtfully placed compartments keep a 15.6-inch laptop, books, and toiletries neatly separated, solving the eternal struggle of bag chaos. This is the ultimate hybrid: a work-to-weekend warrior that transitions seamlessly from office to airport.

Real-world testing confirmed its TSA-friendly underseat fit and effortless trolley sleeve integration. The external boarding pass pocket is a game-changer during rushed flights, and the dual carry options—top handles or shoulder strap—offer unmatched flexibility. Even when expanded, it maintains structure without sagging. The only hiccup? The puffy material attracts lint and pet hair, requiring occasional maintenance for a polished look.

When compared to the Foldie, the BAGSMART wins on refinement, organization, and versatility, though it lacks a dedicated wet pocket. It’s ideal for professionals, frequent travelers, and style-conscious packers who want one bag that does it all. While pricier than budget models, its superior build, adaptability, and smart design justify the cost—making it the most balanced performer in the lineup.

The HOTOR Travel Duffel dominates when shoe storage is the mission, thanks to a dedicated compartment that fits two pairs of women’s shoes (sizes 7–12). No more dirty soles on clean clothes—this 13.4×17.3×7.9-inch tote keeps footwear isolated, protected, and easily accessible. Paired with a removable toiletry bag and quick-access exterior pocket, it’s a traveler’s dream for staying organized. The 3D quilted Oxford fabric adds durability and a modern look, while the lightweight 1.2 lbs build makes it easy to carry through terminals or city streets.

In practice, the wide-opening main compartment made packing and unpacking a breeze, and the trolley sleeve worked flawlessly with rolling luggage. The two-way zippers and reinforced stitching held up under stress, and the adjustable shoulder strap stayed comfortable even when fully loaded. However, the shoe compartment takes up significant space, reducing available room for other items—so it’s best for those who need shoe separation, not those maximizing clothing capacity.

Against the BAGSMART puffer tote, the HOTOR trades some versatility for specialized storage, making it less of a daily driver and more of a targeted travel tool. It’s perfect for gym-goers, weekenders, and fashion-conscious travelers who switch shoes frequently. While not the most spacious, its smart design and shoe-first focus offer unmatched convenience—especially when arriving in clean, wrinkle-free style.

The BAGSMART Foldable Tote is a space-saving marvel, collapsing into a 7.9×7-inch pouch that disappears into purses, suitcases, or backpacks until needed. With a 20L capacity and 16.5×14-inch interior, it’s big enough for A4 folders, laptops, groceries, or last-minute shopping hauls. The water-repellent, tear-resistant fabric ensures durability, while the six internal pockets keep essentials organized on the fly. This is the ultimate emergency tote—always ready, never in the way.

In real-world use, it proved invaluable during surprise errands, weekend trips, and transit delays. The zippers operate smoothly, and the sturdy top handles made carrying comfortable even when fully loaded with books or groceries. When folded, it took up less space than a water bottle. The only downside? The lack of a shoulder strap limits hands-free options, and the unpadded construction isn’t ideal for heavy loads over long distances.

Compared to the non-foldable BAGSMART puffer tote, this model wins on portability and convenience, sacrificing expandability and padding for ultra-compact readiness. It’s perfect for commuters, shoppers, and minimalist travelers who need a reliable backup bag. While not a full-time carry-on, its instant-deploy design and rugged build make it the most practical choice for those who value space efficiency above all.