best black tote bag
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15 Stylish Best Black Tote Bags (2024)

Last Updated on October 29, 2023 by Nicole

As any woman would tell you, a black tote bag is an essential wardrobe item that you should have in your possession. Characterized by its large size, a tote bag is easy to spot because it has two straps, unlike a regular black shoulder bag with only one. It opens much wider than a black purse or handbag, often without a zipper, and typically has less structure with fewer pockets and compartments. 

So what’s so great about them? Well, for starters, they are incredibly versatile, efficiently catering to all your daily essentials and then some. They are also lightweight, normally made from an easy to care for material, and comfortable enough to sling over your shoulder during your daily commute, a day at work or shopping, or when you travel. 

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Other Bag Choices

If you want a selection of other superb bags offering different features, then consider reviewing these:

  • 12 Exquisite Leather Messenger Bags For Men And Women;
  • 11 Stylish And Best Messenger Bags For Men;
  • 9 Most Affordable And Chic Messenger Bags For Women;
  • 12 Best Stylish Yet Practical Canvas Crossbody Bags; and
  • 12 Best Laptop Bags For Men.

For those looking for an upscale brand with exceptional workmanship and unique features, check out 7 Most Sleek And Versatile TUMI Backpacks.

If you are looking for something on the bigger side, maybe a large carry-on bag alternative that would allow you to go away for 2-5 days, consider one of these – 12 Best Canvas Duffel Bags With Style.

Finally, if it is time to replace your luggage, consider Samsonite Winfield 2, one of the best suitcases on the market.

Best Black Tote Bags

In this article, I’ve chosen a wide range of black tote bags for your review. Most of them are budget priced, while a couple are a little more expensive. However all of them are stylish, highly functional, and have been given excellent reviews.

Some of them absolutely fit within the traditional definition of a tote back – large and unstructured, made from cloth, no zipper, with two handles to tote. Others get a little more sophisticated or stylish with black tote bags made from nylon, canvas, leather and faux leather. However, they all are an excellent choice for your travel, business or everyday needs.

Newhey Faux Leather Black Tote Bag

black shoulder faux leather tote bag

Details

  • This spacious tote bag measures 15.3″ (L) x 5.1″ (W) x 12.6″ (H).
  • It comes in multiple colors.
  • It weighs 1.76 lbs.
  • Fits a 15.6″ laptop or tablet.

Best Features

  • Well-organized with 9 compartments large capacity tote bag. 
  • Made from durable water and scratch-resistant PU leather and polyester inner lining.
  • Metal feet base protects bottom of bag.
  • Detachable and adjustable handles and shoulder straps.

Be Aware

  • It does have a zipper which adds a layer of security.

Conclusion

Wear it as a shoulder bag, sling it cross body and walk hands free, or grab the two handles and use it as a traditional tote, this black tote bag offers the ultimate in flexibility. The bag opens wide to allow you to access the multiple compartments inside, an ideal set up for easy travel whether it is for work or your own holiday. The price is very budget friendly.

The minimalist chic appearance makes it work-ready or a great choice for your day off. It works well with any everyday or formal outfit, so you never have to worry about looking great wherever you are.

It consistently receives 5* on Amazon with one purchaser saying, “Honestly it exceeded my expectations. I expected a super cheaply made vegan leather. This is real super soft leather and looks like it was expensive.”

Esvan Black Fabric Tote Bag

black canvas tote bag

Details

  • This vintage style bag measures 4.7″ (D) x 14.6″ (W) x 15.4″ (H).
  • Comes over 30 solid and floral patterns.
  • It weighs 0.81 lbs.
  • Fits a 14″ iPad or laptop.

Best Features

  • Made from thick polyester that is water-resistant with a durable polyester lining. 
  • Has one outside side zippered pocket, and a couple of other inside pockets.
  • Two mesh outside side pockets for a water bottle or small umbrella.
  • Reasonably priced.

Be Aware

  • The main compartment has a zipper.

Conclusion

With enough room to hold a 14-inch laptop, as well as your beach or gym essentials and more, this fabulous traditional black canvas tote bag has plenty of space. In addition, it is lightweight and highly durable. The handles are made from nylon and are very sturdy.

If you are looking for a lightweight bag to pack for a trip, then this is the perfect choice. There are lots of colors and patterns from which to choose making this an ideal travel companion ready to fit your style and mood.

This black shoulder bag has a remarkable 4.8* after close to 9000 reviews. One satisfied purchaser said,

“I bought one of these bags a few years back to use to bring to the pool. It was SUPPOSED to be a junky pool bag that might make it through the summer. Well, here I am 3 years later buying another one. Not to replace the first one (because that one is still going strong), but so now I have variety! My first bag not only made it to the community pool and back….but the Bahamas, royal Caribbean cruise and many more! I get so many compliments…..and to think, I only intended for it to hold my sunscreen and gossip mags.”

Ecosusi Black Nylon Tote Bag

black nylon tote bag

Details

  • This nylon tote bag measures 18.5″ (L) x 7.8″ (W) x 11.8″ (H).
  • Comes in a few colors.
  • It weighs 1.8 lbs.
  • Fits a 15.6″ iPad or laptop.

Best Features

  • Travel-friendly design with a large capacity for electronics and clothes.
  • Several zippered compartments and one padded velcro pocket for a tablet or laptop.
  • Back sleeve to stack on luggage with zippered compartment for quick access to important items.
  • Detachable and adjustable shoulder strap with pad for comfortable carrying as a handbag or crossbody style.
  • Made from water-repellent nylon fabric with vegan leather trim and polyester lining for heavy-duty use. 

Conclusion

Fitting all your travel needs for a weekend getaway plus easy access to travel documents and everyday items like your cell phone are a must for effortless travel. Thankfully, this large versatile black tote bag offers both. Whether you want to carry it with its handles, make it into a crossbody bag or shoulder bag, or stack it on top of the handles of your cabin luggage, this bag can do it all.

Michael Kors Charlotte Black Leather Tote Bag

black leather tote bag

Details

  • This medium sized designer black tote bag measures 15″ (H) x 4.5 (D) x 10″ (W).
  • Comes in many other colors.
  • It weighs 1.87 lbs.
  • Fits a 9″ iPad easily and can fit a 13″ Macbook Air but it’s tight.

Best Features

  • A flat bottom with protective metal feet.
  • Adjustable handles. 
  • Well-made with durable gold hardware.

Be Aware

  • The bag leans more towards a black purse instead of a tote bag because of its medium size and zippered top. Additionally, the straps are thin so do not overpack with heavy items comfortably. 

Conclusion

This Michal Kors black leather tote bag is an excellent black shoulder bag. The design allows you to carry your essentials around with plenty of open space to allow you to exchange other larger or smaller items on an “as needed basis”.

The genuine leather material makes it sophisticated, durable and easy to clean. It could easily transition from a work bag to an evening bag. If you are looking for something on the smaller size compared to traditional sized tote bags, that is stylish and functional, this bag will be worth the price tag.  

Dalix Black Canvas Tote Bag

black canvas tote bag

Details

  • This black canvas shoulder bag measures 20″ (L) x 6″ (D) x 14″ (H).
  • Comes in seven other colors.
  • It weighs 1.05 lbs.
  • Fits a 13″ iPad or laptop.

Best Features

  • High quality 100% washed soft canvas.
  • Minimalist design with large open outside pocket and a zippered inner pocket.
  • 11″ handle drop for comfortable shoulder carrying.
  • Double stitching on straps for heavy loads.
  • Dual reinforced inner stitched lining.
  • Budget friendly.

Be Aware

  • Its main compartment has a zipper.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a large, durable, lightweight and traditional black canvas tote bag, this will do the trick. Its’ wide opening and large internal compartment offers the user multiple choices on how to pack it from a day at the beach, shopping, going to school or an extra bag for travel. It is soft and durable enough to withstand any outdoor or indoor adventure, plus it is machine washable. 

With thousands of positive reviews on Amazon, one happy customer said,

“I bought a few of these to give as Christmas gifts and they were a hit! These totes are sturdy, colors are pretty, and it’s large enough, and I love the soft canvas feel as opposed to the stiffer ones. I also love the 11 inch handle drop which is SO much easier to get on my shoulder. Bought a black one for work because I have a lot to carry and here is where the top zipper feature comes in handy! I can secure my bag before storing in a cubby. I am back to purchase a few more. Highly recommend!”

Dreubea Black Faux Leather Tote Bag

black tote bag

Details

  • This black faux leather tote bag comes in small and large sizes. Small measures 12.1″ (L) x 3.6″ (D) x 10.7″ (H) and large measures 17.3″ (L) x 4.0″ (W) x 11.8″ (H)
  • Offered in multiple colors.
  • Weighs 0.87 lbs.
  • Large fits laptops.

Best Features

  • Made from durable faux leather.
  • Simplistic design with only one small internal open pocket.
  • Convenient magnet closure design.
  • Very budget friendly.

Be Aware

  • No zippered compartments so lack of any security for important items.
  • Thin handles so should not overpack with anything too heavy.

Conclusion

This black shoulder bag is a gorgeous yet simple back tote bag. It is very large, has no zippers, opens up very wide for easy access to items, and offers two handles for a classic over the shoulder look or grab and carry.

Its’ simplistic design combined with a budget friendly price means you can take it anywhere, pack anything in it and not worry. The only caveat is the handles are thin so I would avoid packing anything too heavy. With over 50,000 reviews on Amazon, this sleek black tote bag is a popular and smart choice.

Briggs & Riley Black Nylon Tote Bag

black nylon shopping tote bag

Details

  • This luxury black nylon shopping tote bag measures 7.5″ (D) x 17″ (W) x 13″ (H).
  • Comes in two colors.
  • It weighs 1.88 lbs.
  • Fits a 12″ laptop.

Best Features

  • Ballistic nylon outer fabric is very durable and resists wear, water, dirt, and abrasion.
  • Handles are thick and made from soft leather for comfort.
  • It has “speedthru” outer pocket for easy storage and access at security checkpoints for travel or everyday essentials.
  • Large wide opening with a couple of internal pockets including a water bottle pocket.
  • Separate removable internal waterproof bag perfect for toiletries or makeup.
  • Bottom plastic feet to protect it.
  • Outside sleeve to stack on luggage.
  • Life time warranty, even if damaged by airline.

Be Aware

  • Main compartment is zippered.
  • Premium priced.

Conclusion

This premium black nylon tote bag is exceptionally made and good quality. It is lightweight with a large internal space to fit all kinds of things, perfect for business or travel. The exterior material is extremely durable and easy to clean. It offers a streamlined functional look that would suit professional or casual settings.

It is more expensive than most, but the lifetime warranty speaks to the manufacturer’s views of its quality. Sometimes one significant purchase versus multiple ones over the years is a much better idea, especially for such a versatile type of bag. It is widely reviewed as excellent on Amazon.

TopDesign Black Canvas Tote Bag

black canvas shoulder bag

Details

  • This black canvas shoulder bag measures 17.5″ x 16.5″ x 5″ .
  • Comes in five additional colors, including bright red, green and purple.
  • It weighs 0.75 lbs.
  • Fits a 9″ iPad.

Best Features

  • Lightweight canvas shoulder bag has a capacity of 16L and can carry up to 33 lbs.
  • Made from 100% 10oz cotton canvas.
  • Heavyweight stitching with cross-stitching at the handles for durability.
  • Very budget friendly. They are offered in packages of 2, 6, or 12. On average, they cost around $4 USD each.
  • Machine washable in cold, hang dry, and iron.
  • The material allows you to DIY it with paint, embroidery, or heat transfer vinyl for a personal statement or for gifts. As one buyer stated, “These were the perfect canvas for my Grand artwork.”

Be Aware

  • This is a stripped down traditional tote bag. There aren’t any pockets, the straps are not adjustable and there isn’t a padded shoulder strap for more comfort.
  • Will see 5% shrinkage after first wash provided you follow washing instructions.

Conclusion

This is a highly functional lightweight and well made bag. Whether you are heading to the grocery store and only wish to reduce your reliance on plastic bags, or you are seeking a multipurpose bag for the beach, gym, or travel, this black shoulder bag is an excellent choice.

With ample space and durable handles, you can take this anywhere and it will be a reliable canvas shoulder bag. The price is excellent and the choice of subdued or playful colors means that you can purchase more than one set and match your outfit without breaking the bank.

Lubardy Black Leather Tote Bag

black shoulder bag

Details

  • This black leather tote bag measures 16.9″ (L) x 5.5″ (W) x 12.2″ (H).
  • Comes in multiple other colors.
  • It weighs 2.12 lbs.
  • Fits a 15.6″ laptop.

Best Features

  • Prime PU crocodile pattern leather.
  • Water-repellent and scratch-resistant with polyester lining.
  • Padded foam section with velcro strap closure to protect a laptop or tablet.
  • Zippered Interior also offers a large open pocket for documents, zippered pocket and couple of open pockets.
  • Detachable shoulder strap and adjustable handles.
  • Metal feet to protect bottom of bag.
  • Reasonably priced.

Be Aware

  • Detachable shoulder strap is not padded for comfort if carrying heavy items.
  • No exterior pockets.

Conclusion

Briefcase, shoulder bag, tote bag, and laptop bag, this sophisticated black tote bag offers a lot for a very reasonable price. It is designed to carry all your business or travel essential items in a well organized way.

Many happy purchasers compared the bag to others several times costlier and loved not only the value, but everything it offered. One such buyer says, “Just received my bag and love it!! Very durable. Love the texture, looks very girlie I transitioned from a laptop backpack so very excited for the more classy work look. Love all the space and compartments. Handles are great and feel very sturdy. Go get you one, I contemplated for a month and glad I finally gave in!!

Chiceco Black Nylon Tote Bag

black nylon tote bag

Details

  • This black nylon tote bag comes in two sizes. The large one measures 20.5″ (L) x 6.7″ (W) x 12.2″ (H) and the extra large size measures 22.83″ (L) x 7.48″ (W) x 12.8″ (H).
  • Comes in all black or with brown accents.
  • It weighs a maximum of 2 lbs.
  • The large one fits a 15.6″ and the extra-large one fits a 17″ laptop.

Best Features

  • Made with nylon strength with polyester lining that is waterproof and wrinkle resistant.
  • Zippered interior with pockets and lots of space for file folders, a water bottle, and a laptop, among other essentials. 
  • Soft leather shoulder straps.

Be Aware

  • No exterior pockets.

Conclusion

This black nylon tote bag offers a very functional interior with the added benefit of an extremely durable exterior. Whether you are looking for an everyday bag for the city, or a travel companion, this bag is perfect.

You don’t have to worry about maintaining or cleaning it, or being concerned if you are caught in the rain. Toss it on the floor of your car, or at your feet on the bus, subway or plane, you have a shoulder bag that offers security and piece of mind.

Beyond its functionality, it is a streamlined good looking bag offered at a reasonable price.

SQLP Black Faux Leather Tote Bag

black faux leather shoulder bag

Details

  • This handmade black faux leather shoulder bag measures 11.42″ (L) x 10.24″ (W) x 11.81″ (H).
  • Comes in many other colors and patterns.
  • It weighs 2.43 lbs.
  • Fits a 13″ iPad or laptop.

Best Features

  • A large-capacity tote bag can store regular sized paper, small laptop, and daily essentials.
  • Features two detachable handles and one detachable shoulder strap for multiple styles.
  • Open interior with magnetic clasp.
  • Made from high-quality waterproof synthetic leather.  
  • Detachable interior bag to store hard to find small items, such as make up, pens, office essentials like paper clips.
  • Zippered interior side pocket for valuables such as passport or cell phone.

Be Aware

  • The style of this black tote bag is more traditional without a zippered interior. This allows for quick access into the bag. However, it is less secure.
  • The shoulder strap is not padded for added comfort if bag is heavy.
  • No exterior pocket.

Conclusion

Elegant and very stylish, this black shoulder bag is suitable for running errands, shopping, or for travel. It is made from easy-to-care-for faux leather. It has a bright interior lining which contrasts beautifully with the black exterior.

Although it is less secure than a bag with a zippered interior, it compensates by offering two secured internal areas. First, it offers a detachable nylon bag that would be very useful in containing many small items. In addition, it includes a traditional interior zippered compartment on the side.

Everything is detachable from the handles to the shoulder strap allowing you to use the tote bag in many ways. In addition, you can add extra accessories to play with the look, like scarves or other charms.

TOPDesign Black Canvas Tote Bag

black zippered canvas tote bag

Details

  • This fashionable black zippered canvas tote bag measures 21″ (L) x 6″ (W) x 15″ (H).
  • Comes in twelve color.
  • It weighs 11.3 ounces.
  • Fits a large iPad or laptop.

Best Features

  • Very simple design with a little floral touch at the top. There is lots of storage. It offers a main zippered compartment, and one external pocket measuring 8″ x 8″.
  • It can withstand everyday wear and tear because of reinforced stitching. 
  • Hand wash only in cold but expect some shrinkage. 
  • One year warranty.

Be Aware

  • No interior pockets.

Conclusion

Looking for a traditional large black shopping bag with a zippered main compartment, then this would be a great choice. Made from durable canvas with double stitching so the bag and its’ handles can withstand a heavy load. It’s wide open interior allows you to pack a lot of stuff into it, with the additional exterior pocket offering you a place to tuck in more important or hard to find items.

This tote is perfect for your gym or beach needs, and for that extra bag for travel. It can easily carry your water bottle, shower essentials, and a change of clothes. Like all cotton canvas bags, it is eco-friendly.

Bostanten Black Leather Tote Bag

black leather tote bag

Details

  • This classic style bag measures 16.93″ (L) x 5.12″ (W) x 11.02″ (H).
  • Comes in many beautiful colors.
  • It weighs 1.91 lbs.
  • Fits a 12″ iPad.

Best Features

  • Made from genuine cowhide leather.
  • Metal feet to protect bottom of bag.
  • Zippered main compartment with one zippered and couple of open interior pockets for daily use.

Be Aware

  • No exterior pockets.
  • Has distinctive leather small upon arrival but will pass with use of storage in ventilated space.

Conclusion

This stylish and classy black leather bag is a cross between a tote and shoulder bag. Its’ simplistic lines create a sophisticated look that would fit in any business, casual or evening environment. With all of its interior pockets, it would also serve as an excellent travel companion.

One satisfied purchased says, “Gorgeous tote using for work. Would call it mid-size. Simple, sleek and clean lines. Exactly what I was looking for. Holds my laptop, a lunch and makeup and wallet and small book, a keeper for sure.”

ReLavel Black Nylon Tote Bag

black nylon tote bag

Details

  • This black nylon tote bag measures 13″ (L) x 6.3″ (W) x 16.2″ (H).
  • It weighs 1.28 lbs.
  • Fits a 15.6″ laptop.

Best Features

  • Made with waterproof and wear-resistant nylon fabric.
  • Has an external USB charge interface for mobile phones.
  • Offers speedthru pockets for easy access and storage at security checkpoints when traveling.
  • Main zippered compartment with multiple interior pockets for organization.
  • Offers exterior front pocket to give quick access to important items.
  • Back sleeve to stack on luggage.
  • Features a special sponge protection compartment to wrap and protect a laptop.
  • Budget friendly.

Be Aware

  • Handles are not adjustable or detachable. No additional long shoulder strap to wear it crossbody.

Conclusion

This black nylon tote bag is a game-changer for business or casual travelers. It comes with an external USB port with a built-in charging cable to charge your phone or other devices. The back sleeve allows you to easily stack it on top of other luggage. The exterior pocket offers you quick access to your passport or other travel documents.

Inside, it offers many different storage options from open to zippered pockets, in addition to protection for any laptop or i-pad you wish to carry. You will be well served with this multi-purpose bag for all of your travel needs.

LOVEVOOK Synthetic Leather Black Shoulder Bag

black tote synthetic leather shoulder bag

Details

  • This black tote bag measures 11.8″ (L) x 4.5″ (W) x 9.9″ (H).
  • Comes only in black.
  • It weighs 2.9 lbs.
  • Fits a Ipad and 13.3″ laptop.

Best Features

  • Has ample space to carry all your electronics, other essentials, even a magazine.
  • Made from heavy-duty faux leather that is resistant to daily wear and tear. 
  • Will retain its structure even when empty.
  • Main zippered compartment with several interior pockets.
  • Exterior back zippered pocket.
  • Four exterior feet to keep bag off surface.

Be Aware

  • Handles are thin so avoid overpacking with heavy items.

Conclusion

This is a beautiful streamlined bag that appears simple and stylish on the outside, but is packed with interior pockets to keep you organized for school, business or travel. It has the appearance of a traditional tote with a wide opened interior, but with the added protection of a zipper to keep all your items safe and secure.

The faux leather keeps the bag durable, water resistant and easy to maintain. It is an excellent choice for someone who wants one bag for all of their daily needs.

Last Word

Whether you want a simple bag made of durable nylon or canvas for your everyday needs or a more sophisticated bag with pockets and multiple carrying options, there are many amazing black tote bags from which to choose.

***For those looking for a more structured hand bag, take a look at Polene bags.

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