This tote is the perfect replacement for a simpler one of similar fabric that I've used daily and throughout world travels for over ten years. Sadly, that zipper finally died for good and thus, my quest for the next generation led me to the Baggallini products. I accidentally ordered the Hobo bag a year ago, (in a rush) and realized my mistake when I received it. However, it, too, is/was a wonderful product (except for the very slippery shoulder strap, to which I added a sewn piece of suede leather. On the tote, I only use the shorter handles)—but just a bit too small for all the stuff I like to keep with me, which often includes books and magazines I'm reading, water bottle, rolled-up down vest, etc.. Thus, I finally ordered this tote—the one I meant to order a year ago—and found that the difference between the solid black and black/Cheetah pattern was $40! At that price gap, I figured I could live with whatever was Cheetah. The very subtle pattern is barely noticeable, and when it is, it just seems slightly upscale—score! (Plus, it happens to match the Olukai sandals my daughter gifted me!). Everything about this tote is solid, well-made, well-thought out, and functional. I like the dull silver hardware (shiny silver and/or gold are too fancy for my mostly casual style), its roomy interior, the fact that it stands up just fine with just a few items stashed in the bottom (I often prop it on the floor next to me), and all the nooks and crannies (including one capacious zippered pocket inside) built into the interior (and exterior) that can accommodate everything from phone to laptop. My own 15" MacBook Pro fits into the top but not all the way down due to the bag's angled sides, but, my husband's 13" MacBook Pro fits perfectly into the padded interior pocket secured with a center velcro strap. I don't carry my laptop around like this, but, it's entirely possible for those who do—and definitely a plus for iPad-people. With its sturdy construction, delightfully useful details, and good looks that fit both dress-up and dress-down situations, I'm confident that it'll be at least 20 years before I have to look again for another. Read more
I really like this Baggallini Avenue Tote. I got it several months ago and decided to write a review today, after I used it again for vacation. First, it has many zippered compartments which is perfect for separating out items you need and includes pass-through zippers to put the bag on top of a piece of luggage. Second, I like the dual straps in which you can hold the bag by hand or use the removable shoulder strap. Third, it's really sturdy and can take a lot of stuff without extra weight. (I have had other totes that were heavy to begin with and this one is light.) Finally, it has a dedicated space for your laptop/iPad which I have found convenient.. I have come to rely on this bag every time I travel now, if just for a few days, or longer. And, it doesn't break the bank. Read more
Love love love. Bought to replace my previous Bagallini of the same size but older style which was in perfect condition even after two years of heavy use. Why? Sleeker style (never gets called a diaper bag like my old one did!) and addition of the laptop pocket, which let me finally ditch my separate laptop bag. I carry this every day for the home / daycare / work circuit, and it does great as a purse / laptop bag / diaper bag. All in one. Did you hear that? ONE BAG!!! The holy grail, for this laptop carrying working mom. The longer, narrower, angled shape makes it look far more sleek and professional than the previous style for carrying into the office, but it is still wide and sturdy enough to stay upright when I set it on the floor. Mine usually contains a laptop with power cord and legal pad or a few papers, all my standard purse stuff like wallet gum makeup blah blah blah (lots of junk) in the main pocket, and then I tuck a few diapers and wipes and kid snacks into the big zipper pocket on the back. I love that when I'm sitting in a meeting with the bag open on the floor or table no one can see it's also a diaper bag. When I fly for work I just take the kid stuff out of the back pocket, which is conveniently the same pocket where you can unzip the bottom part to slide the bag over your suitcase handle. On weekends I just take out the laptop and go lighter. Or fill to the brim with water bottles and kid sweatshirts and extra snacks. I recently bought one of the big Bagallini RFID wallets so now to make a quick dash into a store or other "don't need all this stuff" situations, I leave my bag in the car, stick my phone in the front wallet pocket, and off I go. Sturdy wide handles spread the weight nicely so it doesn't hurt my shoulder even when super loaded down. Material wipes nicely when there are minor spots. Haven't washed this one yet but my old one went through the washing machine multiple times and came out looking good as new. Two very minor complaints: 1. The front side pockets are a little awkward since they are narrower at the top then the bottom. I haven't found much that fits well in them other than raisin boxes and fruit snacks, so that's what I use them for. 2. No pocket that's a great fit for a water bottle or baby bottle or sippy cup. But I guess if it had that it would lose the sleek look I like so much, and I've just been tucking that sort of thing into the main compartment. So no big deal. Read more
I’m beginning to see why Baggallini offers so many bags. My everywhere bag was a little small for my iPad Pro—it’s definitely a purse—so I bought the tote for my daily commute to and from work on public transportation. It fits the iPad Pro in a soft case, has all the right pockets in all the right places for keys, wallet, chapstick, phone, sunglasses umbrella, etc., and is sturdy, light, comfortable and attractive. However, I generally change shoes once I get to work and have found that with my tablet and wallet in the tote, accommodating a pair of shoes, in addition, is a struggle. I would prefer it to be just slightly larger for that purpose. That being said, it’s a great tote, and I’ve found that the everywhere bag makes for a great lunch bag! Read more
