A versatile workhorse that keeps its good looks and shape, the well-crafted, all-purpose tote by L.L. Bean is our bag of choice for everyday, everything and everywhere.
The Boat and Tote is truly one of the most iconic American designs that is simply perfect just the way it is.
There is a reason the Boat and Tote by L.L. Bean is a beloved classic: it is stylish without sacrificing utility, durability or portability. Thanks to its superb quality and workmanship, it will last almost forever. Moreover, it is easily the best value for a tote bag that we have come across.
Introduced as Bean’s Ice Carrier almost 75 years ago, the Boat and Tote was billed as a bag made of builders’ canvas for hauling ice from car to ice chest. Today, the tote is used everywhere from grocery stores to gardens, from beaches to bedroom closets.
Still embodying timeless sensibilities, the legendary tote is perfect in just about every way. Eminently practical, the uses are endless for the sturdy tote.
Handcrafted in Maine since 1944 – one tote at a time – the bag really is built for the long haul. It is constructed from heavy-duty, 24-ounce cotton canvas that is both water-resistant and wear-resistant. The double-layer base and double-stitched overlapped seams are of nylon so they will not rot or break, giving the bag its sturdiness and durability.
There is no risk of overloading the bag, since it has been tested to hold up to 226 kilos.
The strong and sturdy structure allows it to stand upright on its own, making it easy to pack up and access its content.
For peace of mind, there is a 100% satisfaction guaranteed warranty: Just return it within a year of purchase for a refund. After that year, L.L. Bean will consider any items for return if they are found to be defective due to materials or craftsmanship.
One can never have too many of L.L. Bean’s totes, as they are multi-tasking miracles, holding beach gear, groceries, kids’ and dog toys, gardening tools and travel gear. They also work well for organising and storing items.
The bags’ endless uses are further enhanced by the fact that there are four sizes:
- Small: It has the capability to hold all those daily essentials such as wallet, keys, sunglasses, phone, make-up bag, and even a book and water bottle. Capacity: 8 litres.
- Medium: For the on-the-go sort of person who needs a reliable tote bag, the medium Boat and Tote is ideal as an everyday carrier. It is great for errands to the market, library, gym, etc. It easily doubles as a perfect school or office bag and holds a laptop, documents and several books. Capacity: 17 litres.
- Large: Another winner is the large Boat and Tote. It is great for groceries, laundry, picnics and trips to the beach. It also doubles as a great overnight bag or for weekend travel. It can comfortably hold many items such as a change of clothes, extra pair of shoes, toiletry bag and notebook. Capacity: 35 litres.
- Extra-large: It is a great beach bag for a day in the sun with the family. It can hold all the towels, kids’ toys, books, paddleball and changes of clothes. It is also a great weekender bag for a road trip or camping. Capacity: 56 litres.
The tote comes in a natural tone, with a pop of colour from its contrasting handles and base. Colour choices include green camouflage, black, fern green, blue, red, dark green, regatta blue, olive grey, peony, bronze yellow, aqua, and alpine gold.
There is a choice of open-top and zippered top, as well as a choice of length of handles – regular or over-the-shoulder.
One may also order a custom monogram bag for that unique gift that is both personal and practical.
I do not think I have ever owned a more useful bag. It has been a constant in our home for the last couple of years. It goes everywhere with me: the beach, the grocery store, the dry cleaner, the gym, weekend trips, etc. The L.L. Bean Boat and Tote bag is, in my opinion, the ultimate carry-all.
