Weekend Bags & Travel Essentials
Earth-friendly carry-ons, totes and organizational pouches
Earth-friendly carry-ons, totes and organizational pouches
Back in 2017 and 2018, I traveled around the world full-time photographing engagements, weddings, and tourism jobs. I went on about 55 flights each year, and admittedly: I was an absolutely unhinged traveler. I’d throw a few things into my bag, only half-considering what I’d need for the week, never taking more than a carry-on suitcase and a backpack, never planning a single outfit, and then I’d make my way to the airport. In the years since, I’ve recognized the fact that I am a much happier person on a trip when I plan what I’m wearing in advance, use packing cubes for all of my things, and bring what I’ll actually need with the exception of a few extra options in case the weather shifts or I decide to get more dressed up or down, etc. With that in mind, I’ve been on a mission to restructure my travel rotation to have a couple of high-quality, dedicated bags to use long-term. Here’s what I have my eye on in addition to a few that you all said you loved on Instagram stories!
Larger weekend bags
Dagne Dover — Jemi Puff Tote, $99 (regularly $175)
If you’re looking for a lightweight statement bag, this bag from Dagne Dover is your match made in puffy heaven. This tote is perfect for work, school, and short trips, and has all the bells and whistles to prove it: it fits up to 16” laptops and has pockets all over. Made from recycled plastic water bottles (aka Repreve®) and available in six colors.
Dagne Dover Vida 100% Cotton Tote, $175
This bag looks like a solid contender for a beach day or a picnic for carrying snacks, wine, plates and a blanket, or a two-day trip: it’s large enough to fit 16” laptops, a water bottle, a couple of outfits, a book, and a toiletry bag or two. Made of organic cotton canvas with an organic, coated interior that’s easy to wipe clean in case of any spills. :-)
Ölend Cosmico Tote, $107
Ölend makes functional bags in limited quantities, and this cobalt blue tote comes with a padded compartment for laptops (up to 14"), a bottle holder and a zippered inner pocket, plus several functional outer pockets— ideal for storing your passport, hand sanitizing wipes, headphones and other essentials. I also love their Soft Bag and Multibag.
Quince ALL-DAY Neoprene Duffle Bag, $99
This duffle is crafted from 31 recycled water bottles, and the high-quality, water-resistant neoprene ensures its durability and versatility, while the spacious interior features multiple pockets and compartments to keep your items organized and accessible.
The North Face x Base Camp Travel Bag, $100
This small canvas duffle is a water-resistant, coated, recycled polyester travel bag that comes in three colors.
CARHARTT WORK IN PROGRESS Duffle Bag, $128
Made of 100% recycled polyester, this sturdy canvas black duffle bag is a utilitarian travel essential: an ideal lightweight, weekend carry-on.
BAGGU Giant Pocket Tote, $62
This unstructured, oversized tote is an unfussy, playful option with tons of space. Complete with two large exterior patch pockets and two interior patch pockets. View other travel items from Baggu.
Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Weekender & Duffel Bag, $157 (Regularly $215)
I just ordered this— excited to take it on its first trip soon! A timeless premium weekend bag and duffel, available in a high-quality, sustainable canvas material. The zip-off pouch at the bottom is ideal for a couple of pairs of shoes or folded sweaters, while the top portion of the bag can carry a laptop, toiletry bags and organizational pouches, and other clothes. Another benefit to a canvas bag is that it can be easily folded or rolled for convenient storage.
ORGANIZATIONAL POUCHES and toiletry bags
Gravel Explorer Plus Toiletry Bag, $79
I just ordered this— the Gravel Explorer Plus has 7 pockets to keep all your toiletries organized, an included clear and removable TSA-compliant bag for quick liquid scans during international travel: also ideal for product explosions. It’s got a hideaway strap that allows for easy access no matter what bathroom you find yourself getting ready in, and it comes with a lifetime warranty. For the smaller version, take a look at the Slim Toiletry Bag.
Baggu Puffy Laptop Sleeve, $32
This playful laptop sleeve is made with 100% recycled nylon filament yarn which is produced from pre-consumer waste, which saves scrap material from being landfilled, conserves petroleum resources, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
Dagne Dover Arlo Tech Organizer, $70
Made of Repreve® recycled materials, this small pouch is ideal for keeping cords and chargers safe and well-organized.
Dagne Dover Frankie Jewelry Case, $75
This zippered travel case keeps your favorite pieces in place and protected while you’re ~ on the go ~ and is once again made of recycled plastic bottles.
Baggu 3D Zip Set, $36
A set of three zippered pouches for travel and organization, with loops for carrying and hanging on the go. Perfect for packing, organizing your bag, or home tidying.
Dagne Dover Mila Toiletry Pouches, $50-$70
Because of its shape, this pouch is great for at-home skincare organization or easy packing in your tote or carry-on. Made from Repreve® (recycled plastic bottles).
Away Small Toiletry Bag, $55
Featuring an exterior zip pocket for grab-and-go items (like disinfectant wipes or makeup remover pads), this travel bag has multiple interior compartments to keep your products organized. This toiletry bag doesn’t appear to be made of any particularly sustainable materials but is incredibly well-constructed and will stand the test of time against spills, so it may make more sense to purchase something like this for your skincare routine if you’re nervous about bottles breaking or exploding as time goes on.
Northern Olive Organic Cotton Packing Cube Set, $92
These cotton packing cubes will help you stay organized on any weekend getaway or even for well-kept garment storage at home. Separate your clothes and travel items in perfectly packed cubes, keeping your belongings easily accessible and freshly folded or rolled. Packing cubes are a perfect way to make your entire travel experience more enjoyable.
See more eco-friendly travel suggestions here.
Disclosure: I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you decide to buy any of the products I refer to and promote. All opinions are my own.