I’m a carry-on only gal. Checking a bag? Not for me: I don’t want to be stuck waiting for my bag at the carousel, or worse, waiting for my bag at my destination, hoping and praying it gets returned to me. (All those with lost luggage know the struggle.) 

Because of that, I’m super strategic about what carry-on bag I use — but I’m also particular about my personal item. For the past year or so, I’ve been carrying the Calpak Luka Laptop Tote — and I can’t stop raving about how it’s legitimately the perfect travel bag. (And I’m not the only one: Calpak’s bags are even beloved by Oprah.) 

Calpak Luka Laptop Tote

Not only is it super cute (and squishy, perfect for resting your head on your lap or at the gate, especially when your flight is delayed), but it also has a ton of pockets. I love the handy zippered top pocket so I can easily get my wallet or passport without rummaging in my bag, as well as a side zippered compartment that can also fit other essentials, like your phone. The bag itself has two small interior pockets that keep things organized, with a long zippered pocket to keep everything secure. There’s a keychain to keep your keys within easy reach, and a padded pocket for your laptop with a Velcro strap to keep it from spilling out. 

With a pass-through luggage trolley sleeve, the Calpak tote whizzes with me on the handle of my luggage, making it easy to stroll through the airport. But the best part is the expandable bottom, that can add an extra 4 inches to your bag — perfect for when you overshop on vacation, want to bring home some souvenirs, or just need to squish in your travel pillow.

I’ve also used it for small overnight trips on its own, as well as running errands (like to a cafe to work before heading to the gym), and it fits all the essentials without getting too bulky or heavy. The squishy straps are comfortable on your shoulder even when you do have it packed to the brim, and it does have some structure, despite it being so soft and squishy (in a good way). 

Calpak Luka Laptop Tote

Currently, it comes in a total of 24 colors, with four classic, four monochrome, and 16 limited options. I have mine in oatmeal, and while I was slightly worried about stains on the light shade, it’s kept its color (and bonus: due to the polyester finish, liquids won’t be absorbed into the fabric). I know I won’t need another bag for quite some time, but truthfully, I love this bag so much that I’m already eyeing the other colors. Maybe a Luka Duffel is in my future for more road trips … we’ll see. 

Shop Similar Travel Bags:

Calpak Luka Duffel

Bagsmart Tote Bag

Béis The Sport CarryAll

Lululemon Daily Tote

Herald Puffer Tote Bag

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