A durable, reusable shopping tote is versatile for groceries, library books, and retail returns, among other errands. Whether stored on your passenger seat or inside your trunk, it's an easy carrier for your items and will save time otherwise spent unloading too many plastic bags.
Of course, reusable bags have the added benefit of being sustainable. Most are made of nylon or canvas and come in all shapes and sizes. Though they look similar on the surface, there are subtle differences that make some perform better (and last longer) than others. Some, like our top pick, come with their own storage solutions, and others are sturdier than the competition.
The BagPodz Reusable Bag and Storage System comes with multiple nylon shopping bags, a pouch for on-the-go storage, and an affixed clip to attach to your shopping cart.
Pros: Comes with multiple bags, storage pouch, clip for shopping cart, water-resistant material
Cons: Limited designs
The BagPodz Reusable Bag and Storage System comes in a set of five or 10 sustainable, machine-washable nylon shopping bags. They're ideal for transporting groceries and are especially unique for their compact pouch that holds the bags when you aren't using them.
Aside from their smart storage, there's a clip on one end of the pouch that attaches to a shopping cart so you don't have to juggle bags in the middle of the produce aisle. Each bag holds up to 50 pounds yet can easily be stored in your purse or glove compartment. BagPodz's material is water-resistant, too, so you won't have to worry about leaks in the event of a spill.
The best reusable canvas bag
Baggu
The Baggu Duck Bag is a sturdy canvas tote suitable for a variety of lifestyles and purposes.
Pros: Durable, machine washable, multiple handles
Cons: Not as large as some picks
For a reusable, practical, and multipurpose shopping bag, the Baggu Duck Bag is our favorite canvas tote. You could easily take it from the office to the grocery store because it snaps shut, has an interior zipper pocket, and two sets of straps: top handles and shoulder straps.
Despite the deep compartment, its restrictive shape makes it better for smaller runs than your big weekly shopping haul. It will last you a while, too, as the machine-washable, artfully-worn fabrics are thicker and more durable than some of its nylon counterparts.
The best reusable waxed bag
Amazon
The Colony Co. Reusable Grocery Bag is a sustainable take on old-school paper bags and will last you for years of grocery trips.
Pros: Durable waxed canvas design
Cons: Only has top straps
The Colony Co. Reusable Grocery Bag is made of waxed material that's stain-resistant and easy to clean. It's also vegan, so it's free of beeswax and leather. Though not machine washable, the 16-ounce bag is an all-in-one carrier for cereal boxes and baked bread alike.
The brand also sells reusable produce bags, which would make a nice addition to any sustainable shopping routine.
Cons: Fabric is a little shiny, not as sturdy as other picks
If you're not looking to splurge, Easy Fold Bag's Reusable Grocery Bags are a great option. The set comes with three ripstop nylon bags that fold easily. They're machine-washable, too, so it's a practical option for your essential items.
They're also extremely functional and come in three colors for less than $10. They aren't as sturdy as some of the pricier options, but if you're looking to reduce waste on a budget, the bags' reinforced stitching should last you a good while.
Pros: Made with 80% post-consumer recycled material, aluminum covered thermal insulation, can hold up to 30 pounds, flexible fabric sides for odd-shaped items
Cons: May be bulky to carry
For days when you're hopping from the grocery store to the library to the post office, it's important for your perishables to remain cool and fresh. The Veno Bag ensures just that with its aluminum-covered thermal insulation, ideal for avoiding unnecessary pit stops home before heading out for other errands.
A novelty feature of this tote is its recyclable fabric sides which allow for simple storage of irregularly-shaped items. Though the box style may make it inconvenient for carrying, the added bonus of temperature regulation doesn't make it a dealbreaker.
Pros: Holds up to 50 pounds, machine washable, folds into a small square
Cons: Short handles, shapeless
The Baggu Large Reusable Shopping Bag comes in a host of cute colors and patterns, is durable and flexible, and is made of 100% ripstop nylon. Despite its large capacity, it folds down to a neat 7-by-7-inch square for easy storage.
The material is both thin and strong, too, allowing for hassle-free carrying. And, when you've unpacked your goodies, just throw it in your washing machine before its next use.