If you’re searching for a shopping tote that’s more colorful than these basic grocery totes, but still inexpensive, then I have a keyword for you:

“beach”, as in “beach bag”.

Beach bags tend to have all the great qualities of a good shopping tote: inexpensive, easily washed, designed to hold a lot of stuff… and they’re a lot more interesting that your average canvas tote.

In fact, I’ve made great use out of one of my beach totes — despite the fact that it may have never seen the Florida shores. It’s hauled books at the local library sale twice annually, fresh veggies from the weekly farmers market, and a heavy load of music books and accessories on an almost daily basis. Sure, you won’t find it featured in Vogue, but I still smile when I look at the purple and neon green flower design along the top.

While you can probably find cheap bags locally, here are some that ship worldwide:

• Pink hibiscus bag - $10.90
• Toca Totes in assorted colors - $10.49+
• Totes with various trim options including blue or pink hibiscus print - $14.99+