Totes vs Backpacks: Which One Works for Your Life?
It’s the showdown no one asked for but everyone has an opinion about: totes vs backpacks. And honestly, both camps are passionate. (Like, “argue-in-a-Facebook-group” passionate.)
Some of us swear by the sleek over-the-shoulder power move of a tote, while others are all-in on the even-weight-distribution, hands-free glory of a backpack. But which one actually works for your life?
Let’s break it down—and yes, we’ll be judging everything from posture to practicality, with a few sarcastic side-eyes along the way (because, hi, it’s Mags).
👜 Tote Bags: The Stylish Workhorse
Ah, the tote. She’s polished. She’s structured. She’s the first to say, “Yes, I carry my laptop, my lunch, and my entire life.” Totes are ideal for those who like to throw everything in one place and pretend it’s organized. (It’s not, but we love the optimism.)
✔️ Tote Pros:
- Easy access: No zippers = no obstacles between you and your lip balm.
- Looks professional: Especially in leather. Instant boss vibes.
- Fits a lot: Laptops, planners, snacks, existential dread.
❌ Tote Cons:
- One-shoulder pain: Ever carried one for 8 hours at a convention? Ouch.
- Security: Open-top totes invite pickpockets (and accidental coffee spills).
- Heavy on one side: You’ll start walking in circles by age 40.
🎒 Backpacks: The Practical Queen
Once reserved for students and hikers, backpacks are officially cool again—especially in leather or with designer flair. They’re the MVP of errands, airport travel, and chasing kids in a park while still holding your dignity.
✔️ Backpack Pros:
- Even weight distribution: Your chiropractor approves.
- Hands-free: Ideal for moms, travelers, and overachievers.
- Secure and zippered: Everything has its place.
❌ Backpack Cons:
- Less convenient in tight spaces: You will turn around and knock over a display.
- Less dressy: Even luxe ones can feel too casual for certain outfits.
- Not shoulder-accessible: Want your wallet? Prepare to perform acrobatics.
💼 Real Talk: What’s Your Lifestyle?
✨ Choose a tote if:
- You go into an office or attend client meetings
- You like looking put-together with minimal effort
- You prefer open interiors for grabbing things quickly
✨ Choose a backpack if:
- You’re a commuter, mom, or student who’s always on the go
- You need structure and compartments to stay sane
- You value comfort over formality
Hot tip: You can own both. Wild, we know. Backpacks for Saturday errands, totes for Monday meetings. Balance, baby.
👀 What We’re Seeing in the Preloved Market
Right now, Coach, Fossil, Patricia Nash, and Michael Kors are dropping some seriously cute options in both styles. Leather backpacks with antique brass hardware? Yes please. Structured totes in pebbled leather? Always a vibe.
If you're browsing our latest drops, you’ll notice sling bags are trending too—because why choose one strap when you can go diagonally and confuse the system?
🌀 The Purse Pass Twist
If you’re torn, try both. With The Purse Pass, you can trade your preloved bag as often as your mood changes (aka weekly). Start with a structured Coach tote, swap to a cute Lululemon backpack later, and keep experimenting until your bag soulmate reveals itself.
Final Thoughts (from Someone Who Owns... Too Many)
Don’t overthink it. You’re not signing a lease—you’re carrying your essentials in a vessel that reflects your vibe. Choose what makes your life easier and your outfits pop. Bonus if it makes you do a happy little twirl when you put it on.
Backpacks, totes, slings—we love ‘em all. But now you know which one’s calling your name right now. 😉