With the right size and style, a tote the tote bag sizes can make even the most cumbersome errands easier to tackle. To help you pick the right one for your needs, we asked a handful of stylish women—including a fashion editor, clothing designer, and TikTok-ordained tote expert—to weigh in on their favorites for shopping, beach days, and beyond.

They all agree on a few important factors:

A tote that’s easy to carry is a must. This means it should have comfortable shoulder straps, exterior and interior pockets to keep everything in its place, zippered closure for security, and a crossbody strap option if you want to go hands-free. “As we all wear many hats and juggle kids, side hustles, meetings, and events, totes are a lifesaver,” says Liv Schreiber, a celebrity stylist and tote expert.

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And it’s worth investing in a tote that’s made from high-quality materials that can stand up to repeated wear and tear. This includes durable canvas that gets better with age and a fabric that doesn’t rip under too much weight. If you do happen to snag a tote with a ripped handle, there are plenty of ways to repair it, from fabric glue to sturdy stitching.