Since I’ve been running around a lot this summer and talking about travel lately (see Trips with Teenage Girls!), I thought I’d mention some bags I’ve been using that I LOVE. My children have either given me these as presents, or I’ve stolen my interest from them! They have asked for some of these bags for Christmas, and when I saw how nice they were, I got them for myself!

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Trader Joe’s Shopping Bag.

This is my go-to for the Farmer’s Market! (See my post What is SO Worth Buying at the Farmer’s Market.)

My daughter told me she bought this for me specifically for the market, and she was right on. It’s big enough to carry everything you buy, for starters. But also, as you probably know, you have to deal with cash at the FM. So what’s best about this bag, is I throw my cash, car keys and whatever I don’t want to carry in there. I can easily pull out the cash and not have to deal with a wallet or phone case or whatever. It easily goes over my shoulder and keeps my hands free, and the vendors just put items directly into the bag. Make sure you save bread or flowers for last so they don’t get crushed! They have different styles of this bag, but this one is so colorful, just perfect for the fresh market on a Saturday morning. Pick one up on your next visit to the store (there’s not one near me- so sad!).

LL Bean Boat and Tote.

My oldest daughter bought me this for our trips to the lake, and it is PERFECT. It is the right size for a book, sunscreen, bathing suit and cover up, hair clip, and water bottle. I take it with me down to the water and prop it up next to my chair. What I love the most is that is stays upright. The canvas material is stiff, so even with the water bottle in it stays standing up. If you’ve dealt with bags that constantly fall over and where you have to dig pretty deep for what you need, you will love this.

Vera Bradley Weekender Duffle.

For summer trips for sure, but any time of year this is a terrific bag to take along when you’re just away for a few days. It’s nice and soft, so you can stuff more into it than you think. It has handles, a strap and even the little area for attaching it to a rolling bag. When my husband and I travel, he typically brings a rolling suitcase and I bring this bag. It’s easy for me to carry over my shoulder, but he can put it right on top of his bag and pull everything at once. 

Any kind of small backpack. I’m including a link here as an example, but there are a ton of these to choose from in various styles, colors and sizes.

For plane traveling, it’s a must to have a backpack like this. Keep it on your back for hands-free, which is super-important when navigating airports, food vendors etc. The outside pocket is ideal for stuff you’ll need to pull out at a moment’s notice like your ID or passport. And the size is perfect for whatever you’ll need on the plane- a book, headphones, snacks, water bottle etc. I suggest including an easy change of clothes (like a light dress) and toothbrush JUST IN CASE there are any issues with your luggage. See an upcoming blog on trips and traveling tips for older adults! For moms with younger children, this style of bag can act as an easy diaper bag as well. Freeing up your hands to take care of the kids is key- throw in a few diapers, wipes, a bottle, pacifier, snacks, toys….and you’re ready to head to the park or playground without fuss. 

Kate Spade New York Madison Premium Satchel. I’m including the Amazon link, because these purses aren’t cheap, and I was thankful to see them listed here to save a bit. My daughters were really into her stuff a few years ago and have some smaller purses and wallets as well. But this one really caught my eye, because it is such a classic style that is definitely me. It’s a little larger than my daughters’ favorites, but it has been surprisingly convenient and stylish. I’m able to fit a laptop in it, so it’s been my regular bag I take to and from work. I love that it has handles and a removable strap.

I get so much use out of these very practical and functional bags, and I hope you found these suggestions useful! If you have any bags that you use a lot and want to share- please do leave a comment!