I Tried the Béis Commuter Tote, and It Organizes Everything I Need for Work and Beyond
Updated: Apr. 19, 2024
My previous travel bag has officially been replaced with the Béis Commuter Tote.
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I like to avoid checking in luggage on short trips, so my go-to carry-on bag for many years was a Rains tote because it fits so much and still tucks away under the seat to serve as my personal item on flights. But as many things as the bag fits, it was light on compartments with only one zippered pocket on the inside. In my search for a new travel bag, I tried out the Béis Commuter Tote.
From Away to Monos, there are plenty of luggage options on the market right now—and lots of contenders for the best commuter bag. Out of all the different brands, I opted for Béis, Shay Mitchell’s brainchild, touting products that are tried-and-true functional travel pieces that won’t break the bank. In particular, The Commuter Tote bag is much lauded for its organization elements, something my trusty tote was missing, so I was excited to put it to the test.
What is the Béis Commuter Tote?
VIA MERCHANT
I Tried It
Béis The Commuter Tote
The Béis Commuter Tote is an everyday bag that combines travel-focused details with versatile features.
As the name suggests, the Béis Commuter Tote is a work bag, but it doubles as a travel option with many fans of the bag using it for both. And with its many functional features, it wasn’t hard to see why.
One of the things I was worried about was how heavy it would be because of how big it looks. The last thing I want to do is lug around a heavy bag while traveling or commuting, especially with all the things I carry around with me. So, when I unboxed the bag, I was pleasantly surprised at how light it is at just 2 pounds.
While I hadn’t had a chance to test it out at that point, the quality smooth nylon material had me feeling confident that if I were to spill anything on it, it would be easy to clean. The wide strap felt secure and stable while the handles were long enough for me to wear it as a shoulder bag.
Béis Commuter Tote features
First things first: The primary reason why I chose this tote is the compartments. The tote has a main section with one zippered pouch and two water bottle pockets. I love that the pockets are inside, as it keeps the exterior looking sleek, and I don’t have to worry about someone snatching my stuff.
Sandwiching the main compartment are two quick access sections, one of which has the famous elastic key leash (much loved by fellow reviewers). To be honest, I didn’t use this feature since I don’t usually have a problem finding my keys, but I can see the appeal if you’re always rooting around for them in your bag.
As suspected, the sturdy nylon material makes it highly durable and quick to clean when those inevitable accidents happen. I’m not saying I spilled my drink on the bag, but I’m not saying I didn’t either. A quick swipe with a wet wipe had the Béis bag looking as good as new.
This tote has a few hidden features. A nice touch is the exterior sleeve with a zippered bottom which, when open, turns into a luggage sleeve. I appreciate it when my products work double duty. I also had never used a bag with a luggage sleeve before, and I will never travel without one again. It’s also so helpful to have the bag secured to my luggage while navigating a carry-on bag through the airport.
Another thoughtfully designed feature is the hidden phone pocket in between one of the side sections and the main compartment. When I need to be hands free during travel, it’s convenient to slip my phone in there, keeping it secure but easily accessible. The pocket is actually roomy enough that I also keep my passport there as well.
How I tested it
I took the tote bag for its inaugural spin on a weekend trip to Los Angeles. For the trip, I opted to forgo the adjustable strap, and I didn’t bring my laptop (but more on both later). In my Béis Commuter Tote I was able to fit: my 6-inch e-reader, a plastic bag of liquids, sunglasses, a portable charger, a large toiletry bag and snacks. There was truly a place for everything and it was all easily accessible.
My e-reader slipped so perfectly in one of the interior slots that it tickled my brain. I used one of the water bottle pockets as intended, for my water, and in the other one, I slipped in my sunglasses case. I can also confirm that it fit snugly under the seat in front of me so it worked as my personal item on the flight.
Next, I tested out the tote as a work bag. Most of the time, I work from home so I’m not commuting to a physical office. But I’ll often work out of a coffee shop for a change of environment, so I packed up the tote and headed out. This time, I used the strap, and I was a little unsure if I would like it because it’s so thick, but the width made it comfortable and evenly distributed the weight of the bag. The extra support was much appreciated because I had packed my 16-inch laptop, which fit in the front sleeve. A little bit of it peeks out, but not enough to bother me.
Pros
- Adjustable and removable strap
- Wear as a tote or crossbody
- Four metal feet on the bottom
- Two interior water bottle pockets
- Hidden phone pocket
- Laptop compatible
- Easy-to-clean nylon material
- Magnetic snap closure
- Elastic key leash
- Luggage sleeve that doubles as an exterior pocket
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Main compartment zipper doesn’t go all the way across
- Only available in two colors: black and beige
FAQ
How do I clean the Béis Commuter Tote?
The good news is that Béis is a quality luggage brand and the majority of the tote features durable nylon (the exceptions being the straps and bottom panel, which are vegan leather), so it’s super handy to clean. No need to worry about food or drink stains, as they come off easily.
Are tote bags allowed as carry-ons?
Absolutely. A tote bag easily serves as your personal item on flights. But just as carry-on luggage rules vary for each airline, there may be specific dimension restrictions for the personal item. Be sure to check with the airline you’re flying with before going on the trip.
Is a tote bag appropriate for work?
Gone are the days of stuffy, old briefcases as the only option for work bags. These days, choices for work (and play) come in all styles and sizes. As long as it holds the essentials you need to get down to business—like a portable charger—it works as your work bag.
A tote bag is a popular option for a commuter bag, as it’s often roomy enough to hold what’s likely the largest item you’ll need: your laptop. Tote bags often also come with removable or adjustable straps, giving you the versatility to wear them as a crossbody or as a shoulder bag with handles.
What other reviewers had to say
Out of over 150 reviews on the Béis website alone, The Commuter Tote has earned an average of 4.8 out of five stars. Here’s what real-life shoppers are saying about it:
“I just got the Commuter Tote for the first time, and I love the easy-clean material,” writes verified buyer, Arlene N. “It’s perfect for every day at work and less likely to get dirty. It’s the perfect size and I love the water bottle feature. Very happy and very excited with this purchase. The extra strap is great, as well.”
Verified buyer, Joanna, says, “I have been searching for the perfect work/travel bag since I started traveling more for work. I was having a hard time finding a bag that fit my work laptop and supplies and also looks sleek at the same time. This bag changes all that. The compartments are perfect, my 15-inch work laptop fits, obsessed with the thick crossbody strap, the phone slot is just right and the zippered pass-through strap for the luggage is so good.”
“I love this bag. It has officially turned me into a loyal Béis customer. I love how there’s a pocket for everything. It’s lightweight and comfortable to carry. I use it for travel but also for school,” shares verified buyer, Ana M.
Product comparison: Béis Commuter Tote vs. Mini Weekender
The most obvious comparison against the Béis Commuter Tote is the brand’s other popular bag, The Mini Weekender. Based on our review of the Mini Weekender, you can see that we’re fans of that travel accessory, as well. Both work well for travel, but there are some key differences.
The Mini Weekender holds about three times as much as the Commuter Tote and features a built-in padded laptop sleeve. It also has adjustable straps, trolley pass-through pocket, external zipper pockets and durable, water-resistant lining. The Mini Weekender is available in six additional colors, including atlas pink, maple and olive. Even though it’s bigger than the Commuter Tote, the Mini Weekender is actually about $20 cheaper. Yet, its size would not be the best work option, making the Commuter Tote more suitable for everyday use.
Final verdict
For me, the Béis Commuter Tote kept everything organized for both travel and work. I especially love its many compartments and appreciate the thoughtful design features, especially ones that work double duty. If you’re looking for a stylish, spacious solution for travel, work or both, look no further than this chic bag.
Where to buy the Béis Commuter Tote
VIA MERCHANT
I Tried It
Béis The Commuter Tote
If you need an everyday bag that combines style and function, the Béis Commuter Tote is ideal for both work and travel.
You can get your hands on the Béis Commuter Tote bag for $118 on the brand’s website in either black or beige. Or you can shop it on Bloomingdale’s or Revolve. Whether boarding a plane or heading to a boardroom, travel in organized style with this commuter bag.
Originally Published: March 12, 2024
