My Favorite Summer Travel Bags

This is Emma’s go-to bag! Isn’t it the cutest? It’s the perfect size for her. :) Nordstrom Rack carries it here, and there’s also an everyday bag. Love the backpack and cosmetic bag, too! 6pm also carries the weekender and everyday bag.

I LOVE the MZ Wallace Metro Tote. I have two of ’em: one that I use for Emma’s baby bag, and one that I use for a work bag. I love that it’s soft, padded and quilted, as it provides a little extra protection for my tech stuff. It’s also completely unstructured, which means it can fit in tight spaces such as under strollers and plane seats. It easily folds up and fits in a suitcase, too. I have it in the medium size, and it comfortably fits my laptop, giant camera, and anything else I need for the day. If you plan on using it as a weekender or as a carryon bag, though, I might suggest the larger size. The larger one is definitely too big for everyday use, but it’s GREAT for travel. Nordstrom carries a ton of MZ Wallace bags, and you can find more on the company’s website.

The most perfect carry-on ever. Yes, it’s white, but it wipes off easily. I’ve had mine for a couple of years now, and it’s in great shape–especially considering it’s been checked at the gate a few times due to crowded flights. I love that inside, it features two flaps that zip each side closed, as it helps me stay organized. And that leather trim?! Gorgeous. You can’t beat the price, either. There are a ton of different sizes, too. I have this one, but I wouldn’t recommend the biggest one unless you’re moving to Europe for a few months or something, haha. It’s MASSIVE.

This gingham bag is magical. Toss Designs recently sent it to me, and I can’t get over how often I reach for it. It’s essentially a smaller weekender, but the straps fit over your shoulders, making it super easy to carry. It also expands, which is great for return trips. (Why is fitting everything in my bag so much harder on the way back?!) It’s currently my go-to bag while flying because it fits so much. I use this carry-on and the gingham Toss bag, and usually can get away with not checking any luggage.

I’ve had my navy Longchamp since college, and it’s stood the test of time!

I also love the backpack — perfect for when you need to be hands-free!

Every preppy girl needs a Vineyard Vines Weekender. ;) It fits a ton, it’s beautifully lined, it comes with a strap, and it somehow doesn’t get dirty. It’s also kind of iconic, right?! Definitely reminds me of summers on Nantucket. Vineyard Vines Weekenders come in and out of stock, so I’d just check the website regularly for new ones. (While there aren’t any available right now, I know they’ll be back!) PS — I use this (very similar) one from Tuckernuck during other seasons or when I’m headed to the Shore for longer stretches of time and need more luggage. ;)

I love this bag for beach getaways. Nothing screams summer fun like Lilly, and the fact that this tote is packable makes it even better. The Breezy Tote is cute, too!

Very Troubled Child sent Mitch this gorgeous weekender for his birthday last year, and I’m constantly stealing it. ;) It’s honestly the nicest bag I’ve ever been in contact with, haha. The leather is beautiful, and the embossing is stunning. This thing comes with us on every lake and beach trip because it’s perfect.

I bought this tote a couple of weeks ago and have honestly used it every day since. It’s. The. Best.

It’s inexpensive, so I don’t worry about it too much, yet it goes with nearly summer outfit. Can’t believe I’ve lived without a market tote for this long! I also love this one and this one, if you want to shop around. :)

The classic monogrammed weekender from Tuckernuck will always be a favorite. It’s great for year-round usage, and it’s almost always in our trunk when we travel. I have it monogrammed with my initials, but I almost wish I’d just gone with a giant “L” since it’s passed around the family so much! It’s easy to carry and it’s held up incredibly well over the years. I’ve spot-cleaned it a few times, but so far, it’s remained very clean!

All hail the L.L.Bean Zip-Top Tote. It comes in a ton of sizes and will last a lifetime. When I’m traveling with Emma, we always take this bag–in a size XL. It fits everything the little girl could possibly need, and it zips closed so nothing falls out during takeoff or while being shoved under the stroller. It’s also very affordable so I don’t stress about it. I love the version with the leather handles, too… and considering adding this one to our family’s collection, as it’s insulated and would be perfect for picnicking! This striped tote is adorable, too.

My Mar Y Sol bag fits perfectly inside our giant L.L.Bean tote, so it usually comes along for the ride.

I can’t tell you how many compliments I get on the thing, and I just love those little pom poms! It also surprisingly fits a LOT.

Nordstrom carries a ton of Mar Y Sol (currently on sale!) as does Shopbop.

You can’t go wrong with a classic leather tote. I’ve had mine for years and it’s never failed me!

Madewell also carries it, and here’s a more affordable option that my friends swear by.