Packable tote recommendation?

Surely this is the group to ask!
I’m taking the train to Chicago next month for an overnight trip and would like to find a lightweight cross body tote. Last time I went I used an Eddie Bauer light weight backpack that packs into itself. Thing is, it’s a light blue floral print and I would like something a bit more grown up. I like the looks of the LE Pliage but would rather not spend that much. Inside pockets would be nice.
I have found a few - not all packable or necessarily lightweight. Finds don’t work for me so I’ll include a couple of links.
Do you have experience with any of these - or others you would recommend? I typically pack a change of clothes (sweater, pants and undergarments) maybe a pair of shoes, pajamas, toiletries and maybe a book or iPad.
Thanks a bunch!

https://bricstore.com/shop/sal.....color=navy

https://www.sierratradingpost......ewsSection

Might be a little small, but the stripes are fun!
https://www.henribendel.com/us.....lsrc=aw.ds

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7 years ago

Firecracker (Sharan)

Veteran

I like the look of the Bric bag, but I don't have experience with a tote like what you are showing or wanting. I know I'm always tempted by the cool bags in luggage stores, though. If you have a chance to go shop at one in person, you might find just what you are after. I even found a great travel toiletries bag once at AAA, so that might be worth a look.

Inge

(website)

Moderator

I don't have any recommendations myself, pil, but am bumping the thread for you.

kellygirl

I use the Chico bag Nomad for overnighters. It packs into itself and it fits well over my shoulder. I also have a small duffle from them that works well. I have a Le Sportsac large weekender that I use as a carry on for travel but even with the shoulder strap, it gets heavy (when full) and is rather cumbersome. I'm looking into a small rolling case for down the road because I'm getting tired of schlepping that thing around.

JAileen

Have you looked at Timbuk2? They make a lot of messenger type bags of different sizes. I have a small one that I sometimes use as my travel purse, and it’s very well made and lightweight. Zappos carries them. I thrifted mine. Thrift stores often have this type of thing.

Elle

What about Baggu? I have their day pack (probably too small for you) and weekender bag and they have worn like iron

Diana

I usually use my Le Pliage or my MZ Wallace tote, which looks and feels very similar to a large LP, but has a clip on cross body strap. I do find that removable cross body strap useful when traveling sometimes (esp if I have other bags to wrangle) so I might go with #2 if I were you. But only if the strap is removable, I actually find them annoying for day to day use, as I think the shoulder straps tend to be more comfortable.

TUMI makes nice bags too.

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