A true tote, it doesn’t have a top closure, so everything is easily accessible. It also has interior zip pockets, though, for those items you want to keep secure, like money or ID. The tote is made from canvas, so it’s sturdy enough to stand up to sand, wind, and water. The tonal trim has a subtle varying texture, and the bag is finished with a signature logo medallion. It sells for $235 on Nordstrom.com.

Budget Saving Alternatives

Now, maybe you’re thinking $235 is a bit much for a bag you’re going to set down in wet sand, or that might get chlorine splashed on it. If you wanted a tie-dyed look, you’d buy that in the first place, right? So consider this Elaine Turner Gidget tote. It’s made from grasscloth, which may tolerate the elements a bit better than fabric. It does have a pretty printed fabric lining, though. The braided rope handles are wide enough to make for comfortable carrying, and will hold the bag together even if it’s weighed down with beach books. Again, it’s big enough to carry everything you might need for a day in the sun, and then some. It also has a cute leather signature logo appliqué. I love it in this Caribbean blue, but it also comes in coral and lime. Normally, it’s $195, but right now it’s available for just $156 on eBags.com.

That still a bit out of your price range for a bag that’s going to play prominently in your beach blanket bingo? Check out this tote called Haiku by Sharon Eisenhauer. I am in love with this bag. It’s the perfect blend of functionality and femininity. Most of the bag is a sturdy canvas fabric, while the matte finished panel on the front displays a pretty floral print. It contrasts in both color and texture, yet is complementary to the rest of the bag. The interior of the bag, as well as the insides of the straps, are lined in pink canvas. It has two exterior slip pockets that are almost as deep as the bag. The interior provides a back wall zip pocket, and another slip pocket. Unlike most totes, this bag has a top zip closure. It’s slightly smaller than the other totes, so your laptop may not fit (unless you have one of those cute little netbooks that are getting popular now), but it’ll definitely hold everything else you need for a day of fun in the sun. Get it in this pale green called wasabi, or in natural or black. Heck, get one of each. They’re only $58 at Zappos.com.