T&C Tried & True: The Perfect Extra-Large Leather Tote for Travel

Here at T&C, we pride ourselves on our discerning eye for quality. With Tried & True, our editors will give you an inside look at the pieces they simply cannot live without.

Let’s face it: the net that is cast for what qualifies as essential these days is … broad. But as far as I am concerned, a good quality leather tote is actually essential for women on the go. Even if you are carrying a smaller crossbody or purse. These days, I carry both my Cuyana Easy Tote with me to work, filled with my planner, my laptop—other items I may need for days at the office—and then bring a shoulder bag, which I fill with my wallet, sunglasses, keys, etc. The reason I love the Cuyana tote in particular, is that the leather is soft, but really holds up well (so it’s tactile and delicious, but not fragile and I don’t worry about damaging it with wear), and it can carry quite a bit and zip close. For years now I have relied upon the updated Easy Tote, even for travel. However, there are some occasions that call for a bit more space, and for that I have been turning to the Cuyana Easy Travel Tote.

As someone who travels a lot, I have refined my carry-on only practice to a bit of an art, so I should probably note that if that is how you roll exclusively, then I don’t know if this is the bag to reach for as your personal item. I’ve only ever carried it on flights where I’ve checked a bag, because it’s slightly bigger than the dimensions allowed for personal items. So, just know that up front. But for an on-the-go situation where you need the space to carry everything you need with you (perhaps for a single night away), or maybe if you want a really elevated gym bag with room for both your laptop, your sneakers, a change of clothes, your toiletries—this would be great for that. I think opting for a bit of refinement in this area helps the whole premise feel a bit more elevated. If I didn’t have a gym outside of my building, this would be what I would tote on my workout days, because past experience informs me that nothing makes a good look feel spoiled more than a schlubby gym bag that clashes with the vibe.

As someone who likes to look polished and timeless, even when I travel, I have found that this bag is a great addition to my roster, both in terms of aesthetic and functionality. I can fit just about everything I need in it for two nights away, or carry all my essentials for a flight without a roll-y. It has interior pockets (one that keeps your laptop secure, which is key) as well as snaps for the organization system, a key clip, and as mentioned before, a zipper. I also appreciate that as with all Cuyana products, not only is the leather tanned and handled as ethically as possible, but as someone who has quite a few leather goods from the brand that have had more than their fair share of wear, they still look beautiful with years of heavy use. In other words: this is an investment, but one that you will use for years to come.

As the deputy digital lifestyle director at Town & Country, Roxanne Adamiyatt covers fashion, beauty, wellness, design and travel.