I Stopped Using This Travel Bag, and It Makes Airport Security Much Easier

I never want to be that person at airport security. You
know—the flustered traveler who slows down the line due to a lack
of organization and what not. Basically my worst nightmare. While
I’ve streamlined
my process over the years (thanks in large part to TSA
PreCheck), I noticed one hiccup recently that continued to slow me
down…

Yep, like many, I’ve always relied on a massive open tote bag
as my carry-on. In my defense, the choice has made sense in theory.
You can toss your entire life inside and fill it to the brim to
avoid checking extra bags. Unfortunately, this silhouette just
isn’t that practical. Think about it: You send it off down the
conveyor belt through security, and unless there’s a bin to toss
it in, your belongings more or less jump ship, spilling out
everywhere.

The issue then escalates when you put the bag under the seat,
right? So much fun watching various items (a phone charger, a water
bottle, etc.) roll out during takeoff—not. My solution was to
invest in pouches to at least compact everything so loose items
wouldn’t fall out. But I realized I kept making my travel routine
feel even more high-maintenance… The solution? While it may seem
simple, it’s all about opting for a zippered tote that has
functional inside pockets to keep everything in place.

TBH, I recently introduced this type of bag into my airport
style game with
this pick from Dagne Dover—and it has minimized my airport
stress. What about you? Do you rely on zippered totes? Are you
ready to ditch your open tote for something else? Regardless, I
rounded up 20 perfect carry-on bags to shop below that could easily
streamline your jet-set life (like they have mine).

Meet
the bag that’s basically become my go-to. It’s lightweight,
expandable, and comes complete with practical pockets
inside—including a removable mesh pouch (ideal for beach
vacations).

Compliment
your travel uniform with this very-right-now leopard-print tote
that has a trusty top-zipper, along with every inside pocket you
need.

Shoppers
rave about this Madewell best seller’s chic look and
functionality—especially the fact that it has a zippered top.

Offering
plenty of room with 21.5 inches of expanded depth, this is the tote
you need to keep organized with everything secure.

The
mock croc and rich green hue makes this oversized tote look triple
the price. One of the best features is the metal feet on the bottom
for longevity.

With
4.7 out of 5 stars on amazon (out of more than 1600 customer
reviews), this water-repellent tote can easily fit your 15.6-inch
laptop—along with all of your other travel necessities.

A
functional yet fashionable weekend bag that looks so expensive with
the gorgeous blue hue. And at only $50? Yes, yes.

The
name—“cloud bag”—pretty much sums this one up. It’s as
roomy and light as a cloud, and packs in its own pouch for
super-easy storage.

Into
the logo vibe? You’ll be all about this beautiful catchall tote
that has just-long-enough double straps to swing the bag over your
shoulder for easy use.

Don’t
underestimate the power of a tote/backpack-hybrid. This top-rated
silhouette is incredibly easy to carry with the adjustable padded
shoulder straps and dual top handles.

Featuring
a sleeve to slip over the handles of your wheeled-carry on, this
durable zippered bag is water-resistant and has interior staples
like a laptop pocket and waterproof umbrella pocket.

If
you’re looking for a sporty silhouette (that could double as a
gym bag as well), consider this under-$30 go-to.

This
zippered croc-embossed bag will add an instant touch of
sophistication to any jet-setting look. Also note that it comes in
black and an emerald color a well.

Looking
for a larger weekender to act as your tote and suitcase? Consider
this spacious canvas tote with PVC lining.

You
can’t go wrong with this customer-favorite that has the
always-cool camo print.

Now
this is classic you’ll have in your closet forever.

What’s
more timeless than a monogrammed Louis Vuitton tote for travel?
Exactly. This vintage style from Shopbop’s What Goes Around Comes
Around section is where it’s at.