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A few summers ago I purchased a beach bag set for my mother ahead of our East Coast beach trip. It came with a waterproof beach bag that fit a couple of large beach towels, kept our electronics dry and our snacks safe from seagulls.

You may think all beach bags are created equal, but whether it’s snagged zippers, frayed seams or suspect waterproofing, you could be caught having to carry all of your valuables back to the car if you don’t pick the right product.

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So when it comes to your all-in-one beach bag solution, from porting your beach towels and water bottles, to snacks and sunscreen, we’re breaking down what to look for when buying the perfect beach tote, as well as a few top product picks that are also on sale.

What to Look for When Buying a Beach Tote Bag

When shopping for the ideal beach bag, here are a few essential features to consider, from size and capacity, to water- and sand-proofing.

1. Water and sand resistance: Bags should be made from waterproof or water-resistant materials to prevent moisture from seeping in. The most ideal materials are nylon or polyester, which can be wiped clean and sand brushed off most easily.

2. Size and capacity: Choose a bag large enough for towels and personal items for your entire group, but not so large that it becomes cumbersome to carry. For example, if carrying items for a single person, a medium size bag may suffice, but for two or more people, consider upgrading to a large bag.

3. Closure system: Secure closures like zippers, magnetic snaps or velcro help keep sand and water out as you haul your bag along the shore.

4. Organization: Multiple pockets (both interior and exterior) help separate wet items from dry ones and keep small essentials like keys, phones and sunglasses easily accessible.

5. Durability: Heavy-duty materials and reinforced stitching ensure your bag can handle the weight of wet towels and repeated exposure to sun, sand and water. Synthetic materials can get hot, however, so some shade coverage may be necessary to keep your electronics from overheating.

6. Portability: Look for comfortable handles, lightweight construction and packable designs. For example, one of our product picks include rope material handles which could potentially be uncomfortable for long walks.

7. Easy maintenance: Bags that wipe clean or are machine washable save time and effort in post-beach cleanup. Bags made from cotton or straw may not be as easy to clean even if they are durable.

Popular Beach Bags On Sale Up To 35% Off

These popular beach bag options could be just what you need for your next water-based adventure without worrying about damage by sun, sand and water.

1. ESVAN Original Water Resistant Large Tote Bag

Price: $20.53, was $25.99 - 21% off at Amazon

Rating: 4.8-stars; 9,000+ ratings

Features:

• Made from polyester that is waterproof and washable according to the company
• Large dimensions (14.6" x 15.4" x 4.7")
• Multiple storage options, including exterior zipper pocket and 3 interior pockets
• 39 design options
• 11-inch handle drop for shoulder carrying
• Ideal for: Gym, travel, and beach use

With over 9,000 ratings and an 89% 5-star rating, customers largely appreciate the ESVAN tote bag design options and capacity size. It’s protective (with zipper closures), and waterproof, with one happy reviewer saying it “checks all the boxes”.

However, some complaints on other product sizes noted it wasn’t as durable as hoped, with seams potentially ripping before too long.

2. Simple Modern Large Beach Bag

Price: $69.99 at Amazon

Rating: 4.7-stars; 2,800+ ratings

Features:

• Made of EVA, available in medium, large and extra large sizes
• Lightweight, waterproof and easy to clean, it can be hosed off after use
• Tip-proof and treaded non-slip bottom
• Included: Detachable water-resistant zipper pocket to hold phones or small items

This Simple Modern beach bag is currently rated as the second best selling beach tote on Amazon, with 4.7-stars and over 2,800 reviews. “Run, don’t walk…this is your bag,” says one reviewer, noting they purchased this one over another popular pick thanks to the price and the fact that the straps lay down.

The main complaints are the handles, with some noting they feel weak and may be prone to breaking. While easy to clean and available in fun colors, this bag won’t be as protective as an enclosed waterproof beach bag.

3. SHYLERO Beach Bag With Magnetic Snap (XXL)

Price: $24.99, was $29.99 - 17% off at Amazon

Rating: 4.7-stars; 3,800+ ratings

Features:

• Waterproof ripstop construction with interior lining
• Heavy-duty capacity holds up to 22 pounds, according to company
• Machine washable, magnetic snap closure for versatile use
• Three big inner pockets with one zippered compartment
• Built-in key holder and bottle opener for convenience
• Comes with: Waterproof PVC pouch for phones and valuables

Listed at the lowest price in 30 days for the Blue Dolphin Shylero beach bag, this popular option is made from polyester with a waterproof coating and sizable enough for multiple towels and beach accessories. One reviewer noted the XXL size was big enough for four large beach towels, sunscreen, goggles and more.

For complaints, some felt it wasn’t as waterproof as it claims, and others noted that the O rings that the rope handles are attached to are prone to rusting.

4. Bodysurf Store Packable Beach Bag Waterproof Sandproof (XL)

Price: $39.99 plus additional coupon, was $49.95 - 35% off at Amazon

Rating: 4.6-stars; 1,000+ ratings

Features:

• Capacity fits 4-5 towels
• Eco-friendly construction made from 100% recycled ripstop nylon according to company
• Folds flat to fit in suitcases
• Zipper closure for secure protection
• Padded comfort handles for easy carrying
• Interior pocket for valuables protection
• Lightweight and durable construction
• Machine washable

One reviewer called the Bodysurf beach bag a “Mary Poppins bag”, going on to mention it’s “soft and strong at the same time.” Noted as a great bag option for the pool or beach, there’s plenty of space with pockets and pouches.

As with a few other bags, some felt it wasn’t as waterproof as it claims (though others did mention it held up), so it could be worth investing in some waterproofing fabric cleaner for the future.

5. BOGG BAG - Original, Large Tote

Price: $72, was $90 at Bogg; $90 at Amazon

Ratings: 5-stars and 2,100+ ratings at BoggBag.com; 4.7-stars and 1,100+ ratings at Amazon

Features:

• Fits 6 towels and accessories according to company description
• Tip-proof design: Stands upright on any surface
• Sand brushes off, spills wipe clean
• Included: Two clear insert bags for organization
• Other compatible accessories include dividers, toppers and coolers available

The BOGG Bag was a top seller during Amazon Prime Day this year (though only marked down $10 so you’re not missing much), with influencers raving about this tote bag. Ideal for hauling gear to the gym or beach, it’s durable, easy to clean and available in a huge variety of colors. It’s the modern day Croc of tote bags. One reviewer called it a great “catch all bag”, using it for the beach and park thanks to its easily cleaned design.

For complaints, the straps seemed to be the main culprit, sometimes arriving twisted or falling, while a few others noted the colors seemed a little off compared to the pictures.

More Summer Reviews

Whether it's loading up on sunscreen, buying a dehumidifier to reduce mold or finally investing in a stand up paddle board, we're covering some of the best deals all summer long.

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• A Beginner's Guide To Air Purifiers
• Make A Splash With This 4.8-Star Stand Up Paddleboard Sale (Its Lowest Price Ever)

Price accurate and item in stock at time of publish.