I grew up with my family taking these bags to camp. I finally purchased one of my own (large) and I'm so glad I did! The canvas is incredibly sturdy. It is surprising how much you can fit in one bag. The longer handles are great for carrying the bag over my shoulder.
Love these bags! It is my one "typical New Englander" trend. They are well built, roomy, and sturdy. Perfect as a weekender (I think I have the large, but it may be the extra large). It is also great for teachers - made for carrying around lesson plans, books, and tests. I actually just ordered a large and medium of the Everyday Lightweight Totes for school because they are the same size as these, but they lightweight and roll up. That way I can roll up the nylon one and stick it in the canvas bag during finals (got to bring home those term papers).
I absolutely LOVE this tote. I have the extra large one, and it holds so much. We use it as a beach tote, a carry all when we travel or have a get together. I have had this tote for at least 10 years, and I can say it is absolutely RABBIT PROOF! Our rabbit loves to chew everything, and has destroyed many things over the years. Try as she may, she CANNOT chew through this bag. We have had her as long as we have had this bag. She tried and tried to chew through it to no avail! Thank you LL Bean for making this tote so durable! It is so worth the money!
I have 3 medium regular handle totes that I use for grocery shopping. My first one was purchased years ago for ski trips-- it had beautiful snowflakes on the blue canvas print. I've recently added two solid color blue violet (LOVELY!!) bags to my collection and I use all 3 for my grocery shopping totes. Cashiers love them because they stay upright and open for easy loading, I love them because I can carry so much in them without worrying about them breaking and making a mess in the car. AND! They are machine washable, even though Bean reccommends spot cleaning. I have a front-loader machine, I use the "handwash" cycle and cold water, and then toss them in the dryer on low. They come out great and unharmed. Geesh, I'll be using these super-quality totes forever! Thank you, LLBean. I think I'll order just one more......
