Tote vs. Satchel — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 26, 2024
A tote is typically a large, open-top bag with parallel handles, ideal for carrying numerous items, whereas a satchel is a structured bag with a flap and a crossbody strap, often used for carrying books or laptops.
Difference Between Tote and Satchel
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Totes are known for their spacious interior and minimal compartments, making them perfect for shopping or as a carry-all bag for everyday items. Whereas satchels offer more organizational features, including multiple compartments and pockets, which cater to those needing to separate and secure their belongings.
Totes usually feature a simple design with two handles and no closing mechanism, providing easy access to contents. On the other hand, satchels come with a secure closure, typically a flap that fastens with buckles or snaps, offering added security for the contents.
The material of totes often ranges from lightweight fabrics like canvas or nylon to leather, aimed at casual or versatile use. Satchels, however, are frequently made from sturdier materials like leather or heavy canvas, designed for durability and a more formal appearance.
In terms of carrying style, totes are generally carried over the shoulder, making them suitable for casual outings or shopping trips. Satchels are often equipped with a longer strap for crossbody wear, making them ideal for commuters or students who appreciate hands-free convenience.
Fashion-wise, totes are a staple for their straightforward, practical style that suits a variety of casual looks. Satchels, with their classic and often vintage-inspired design, are preferred for more professional or dressed-up occasions, providing a chic yet functional accessory.
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Comparison Chart
Design
Open top, large interior, minimal pockets
Structured, flap closure, multiple compartments
Material
Canvas, nylon, leather (varies)
Predominantly leather or heavy canvas
Carrying Style
Over the shoulder
Crossbody or shoulder strap
Typical Use
Shopping, casual outings
Professional settings, school
Closure Type
None or simple snap
Buckles, snaps, or clasps
Compare with Definitions
Tote
Often made from durable, lightweight materials.
Her canvas tote endured years of use.
Satchel
Designed for carrying books or laptops.
Her satchel was perfectly sized for her laptop.
Tote
A large, unfastened bag with parallel handles.
She carried a striped tote to the beach.
Satchel
Preferred for its organizational compartments.
Her satchel had compartments for all her gadgets.
Tote
Usually lacks a secure closure mechanism.
Her tote snapped shut with a simple button.
Satchel
Often features a secure closure.
His satchel closed with a sturdy buckle.
Tote
Suitable for casual use and shopping.
She prefers a tote for her weekend shopping trips.
Satchel
Made from sturdy materials like leather.
The leather satchel had a classic, professional look.
Tote
Primarily used for carrying numerous items.
His tote was filled with groceries.
Satchel
A bag with a flap and crossbody strap.
He carried his books in a leather satchel.
Tote
To haul; lug
Toted my gear to the car.
Satchel
A satchel is a bag with a strap, traditionally used for carrying books. The strap is often worn so that it diagonally crosses the body, with the bag hanging on the opposite hip, rather than hanging directly down from the shoulder.
Tote
To have or bear on one's person
Gangsters toting guns.
Satchel
A small, sturdy bag, often made of leather and having a shoulder strap
I put a change of clothes and my toiletries in my satchel for an overnight trip to Chicago.
Tote
To determine the total of; add up.
Satchel
A woman's handbag that typically has an interior frame, a rectangular shape, a flat bottom, double handles, and a hinged or zippered opening.
Tote
To sum up; summarize.
Satchel
A bag or case with one or two shoulder straps, especially used to carry books etc.
Tote
A tote bag.
Satchel
A little sack or bag for carrying papers, books, or small articles of wearing apparel; a hand bag.
The whining schoolboy with his satchel.
Tote
A pari-mutuel machine.
Satchel
Luggage consisting of a small case with a flat bottom and (usually) a shoulder strap
Tote
A tote bag.
Tote
A heavy burden.
Tote
(logistics) A kind of plastic box used for transporting goods.
Tote
A pari-mutuel machine; a totalizator.
Tote
Pari-mutuel betting.
Tote
(Southern US) To carry or bear.
Tote
To add up; to calculate a total.
Tote
To carry or bear; as, to tote a child over a stream; to tote a gun on one's hip; - a colloquial word originating in the Southern States, and used there esp. by negroes, now common throughout the U. S.
Tote
The entire body, or all; as, the whole tote.
Tote
A capacious bag or basket
Tote
Carry with difficulty;
You'll have to lug this suitcase
Common Curiosities
Do totes come with zippers?
Some totes have zippers, though many are open without any secure closure.
Are satchels suitable for carrying electronics like laptops?
Yes, satchels are excellent for carrying electronics due to their padded compartments and secure closures.
Can totes be used for professional purposes?
Totes can be used professionally, especially those made from leather, though they are generally more casual.
Can either bag type be considered gender-neutral?
Both totes and satchels are considered gender-neutral, appealing to anyone based on style preference.
What type of closure mechanisms do totes have?
Totes may have no closure, a magnetic snap, or occasionally a zipper.
Which is more versatile, a tote or a satchel?
Totes are more versatile due to their simple design and capacity to carry a variety of items.
How does the weight capacity of a tote compare to a satchel?
Totes generally can hold more weight and bulkier items compared to satchels.
What is the main difference between a tote and a satchel?
Totes are open and typically larger with minimal pockets, while satchels are structured with multiple compartments and a secure flap.
What materials are satchels typically made from?
Satchels are commonly made from leather, but heavy canvas is also popular.
Can satchels be worn on the shoulder?
Yes, most satchels come with a strap that is adjustable and can be worn on the shoulder or across the body.
Are there fashionable options for both totes and satchels?
Both types of bags come in fashionable options, suitable for various tastes and occasions.
Which type of bag is better for quick access to items?
Totes provide quicker access due to their open top design.
Which is more secure, a tote or a satchel?
Satchels are more secure due to their flaps and fastening mechanisms.
What is the typical price range for a high-quality satchel?
High-quality satchels, especially those made of leather, can range significantly in price, generally from $100 to $500+.
Is a satchel considered a formal type of bag?
Satchels can be considered more formal than totes and are suitable for business or other professional settings.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
