Three tote bags in different sizes and designs, showcasing floral, neutral, and polka dot patterns

How Big is a Tote Bag? - A Size Guide for Everyone

Tote bags are the go-to accessory for all kinds of adventures, from everyday errands to spontaneous weekend getaways. But how big is a tote bag, exactly? With sizes ranging from compact to oversized, it’s important to find the right fit for your needs. Whether you’re looking for something stylish yet practical or need extra space for all your essentials, this guide will help you choose the perfect tote bag.

At Watership Down Crafts, we design unique, eco-friendly tote bags crafted from repurposed fabrics. Let’s explore the different tote sizes and find the best match for your lifestyle.

Model showcasing three unique handmade tote bags in different settings.

The Standard Tote: Your Everyday Companion

The standard tote bag is the perfect all-rounder—spacious enough for everyday essentials but compact enough to carry comfortably. Typically measuring around 13 inches wide by 14 inches high, these bags can easily fit:

✔ A laptop or tablet

 ✔ A reusable water bottle

 A notebook for jotting down ideas

✔ Your wallet, phone, and keys

Perfect for work, shopping trips, or casual outings, a standard tote is a practical and stylish choice. Explore our collection of handmade tote bags to find your everyday companion.

Handmade embroidered notebook covers and tablet sleeves in unique fabric designs.

The Oversized Tote: Space for Everything

If you need a bag that holds more than just the basics, an oversized tote is the way to go. Measuring approximately 17 inches wide by 15 inches high (or larger), these bags are ideal for:

✔ Carrying groceries and market finds

✔ Packing for a weekend getaway

✔ Beach days, picnics, and gym sessions

✔ Holding books, knitting projects, or baby essentials

Oversized totes offer both style and practicality, making them great for those who love to be prepared for any occasion. Pair it with a handmade tablet sleeve to keep your devices safe on the go.

The Mini Tote: Compact and Convenient

For those who prefer to travel light, a mini tote bag is a great option. Measuring around 9 inches wide by 10 inches high, these bags are ideal for:

✔ Quick errands and coffee runs

✔ Carrying just the essentials (phone, wallet, keys)

✔ A stylish alternative to a traditional handbag

Mini totes are compact yet functional, offering a chic and eco-friendly way to carry your essentials while keeping things lightweight.


Choosing the Right Tote Bag for You

The best tote size depends on your lifestyle and daily needs:

  • Standard Tote: Ideal for work, school, and everyday outings.
  • Oversized Tote: Best for travel, shopping, and carrying bulkier items.
  • Mini Tote: A great choice for minimalists who prefer a light carry.

No matter which size you choose, a well-crafted tote bag is a sustainable, stylish, and versatile addition to your wardrobe.

How to Care for Your Tote Bag

To keep your tote bag looking great for years to come:

Hand wash or machine wash on a gentle cycle

✔ Avoid harsh detergents to protect the fabric

✔ Let it air dry to maintain shape and durability

By following these simple steps, your tote will stay in top condition, ready for all your daily adventures.

The Sustainable Choice

Choosing a tote bag isn’t just about style—it’s about sustainability. Reusable totes help reduce plastic waste and are a great way to embrace eco-friendly living. According to WWF, switching to reusable bags can significantly cut down on single-use plastics, helping protect the environment.

Find Your Perfect Tote Bag

Now that you know the different tote sizes, why not find one that suits your needs? Whether you’re after a roomy oversized tote or a sleek everyday bag, we’ve got something for everyone.

Shop our handmade tote bag collection and browse our personalised notebooks for the perfect accessories to complement your tote.

What’s your go-to tote size and style? Let us know in the comments! 🌿✨

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

  • A small dog sits on a kitchen table beside a steaming mug with a spoon inside, a colourful tea towel, and a few slices of toast. The dog stares directly at the camera, giving the scene a cosy but slightly chaotic morning vibe.

    Signs of Creative Burnout (That Don’t Look Like...

    Debbie Palmer

    Wondering if you're tired or quietly combusting? This honest (and funny) guide walks through the real signs of creative burnout — and what to do when it hits.

    Signs of Creative Burnout (That Don’t Look Like...

    Debbie Palmer

    Wondering if you're tired or quietly combusting? This honest (and funny) guide walks through the real signs of creative burnout — and what to do when it hits.

  • Woman in her 50s walking through a busy UK market with a crossbody bag, hands free, holding a reusable coffee cup

    Why Are Crossbody Bags So Popular?

    Debbie Palmer

    Why are crossbody bags so popular? It’s not just a fashion trend — they’re comfortable, secure, and incredibly versatile. Here’s why more and more people are switching to crossbody bags.

    Why Are Crossbody Bags So Popular?

    Debbie Palmer

    Why are crossbody bags so popular? It’s not just a fashion trend — they’re comfortable, secure, and incredibly versatile. Here’s why more and more people are switching to crossbody bags.

  • A smiling woman with a canvas tote bag unloads groceries from the back of a car while her two young children help. The scene takes place on a residential street, suggesting a practical, everyday use for the bag.

    Which Type of Bag Is Best for Everyday Use?

    Debbie Palmer

    Not sure which type of bag works best for daily life? This guide compares comfort, practicality, and material choices to help you find the perfect bag for everyday use.

    Which Type of Bag Is Best for Everyday Use?

    Debbie Palmer

    Not sure which type of bag works best for daily life? This guide compares comfort, practicality, and material choices to help you find the perfect bag for everyday use.

1 of 3