We have been using the same large totes for camping and carrying fire-place logs for over 30 years. Also the same medium tote for grocery shopping for well over 30 tears. We have also given dozens of LLB totes to family and friends for special occassions over the years. Grandchildren are now using them. They are all still in use, without repairs.
I looped the handles of my medium ziptop over my rolling small airport bag and everytime it swung around onto the ground (about every 15 feet) the bottom would drag on the sidewalk, or pavement. I would stop and replace it and try to walk more evenly with a steeper handle angle. Nonetheless after one round trip to Washington the bottom of my bag is worn through. My fault but how to travel light? I'm a bit too old to back pack on trains.
In June 2008 I retired after teaching for more than 30 years. For the last 18 years, my "book bag" was a medium Original Boat and Tote Bag. Except for lots of pencil marks and chalk dust, it's still going strong even after those 18 years of back-and-forth from home to school, stuffed with books, papers, etc.!! In June, I brushed it off, gave it a spot-wash, and it's still in use -- only now I stuff it full of maps and tour guides as I enjoy traveling in my retirement! You can't get a tougher, more serviceable bag for the money!
I have the X-Large bag and I use it when I go camping. It holds my tent, my sleeping bag, and my comfy pillow. I need to get a second one to carry the rest of my gear and clothes.
