Madewell Transport Tote vs. Carryall: Which one should you buy?

The Madewell Transport Tote and the Carryall primarily differ in their structure and aesthetics, the Transport Tote is known for its iconic relaxed, slouchy silhouette, while the Carryall offers a more structured, streamlined, and polished look. The Transport Tote is also slightly larger, making it a go-to for those who need to carry more, whereas the Carryall's clean lines and organized interior lean more professional.

Here's everything you need to know about these two staple bags from Madewell to decide which is the right fit for your lifestyle.

The Madewell Transport Tote

The Transport Tote is arguably Madewell's most recognized bag, celebrated for its buttery-soft leather and an effortless, unstructured shape. Designed as a do-it-all bag, its large, open-concept design can hold everything from a 15-inch laptop and work essentials to gym clothes and weekend getaway necessities, making it a favorite for its versatility and chic, laid-back vibe.

• What it is: An oversized, slouchy leather tote bag known for its minimalist design and large capacity.
• Key features: Crafted from high-quality, soft leather that develops a unique patina over time. It features a spacious main compartment, one interior zip pocket for small essentials, minimal hardware, and sturdy top handles.
• Price: ~$150 - $200, depending on the specific leather or canvas finish.
• Materials/Construction: The most popular versions are made from soft, semi-vegetable-tanned leather designed to show wear beautifully. The stitching is reinforced, and the handles are durable enough for heavy, everyday carry.
• Sizing/Fit: Generously sized at approximately 15-16" wide and 12" high, this bag comfortably fits over the shoulder and can accommodate larger items with ease.
• Pros: Enormous capacity for work, travel, or errands. The leather ages beautifully and gains character. Its versatile, simple design pairs well with almost any casual or business-casual outfit.
• Cons: The unstructured design means items can get lost at the bottom. Minimal internal organization beyond one small pocket. Can become heavy when fully loaded.

This Tote is ideal for anyone who needs maximum haulage capacity and prefers a relaxed, unstructured bag that looks effortlessly cool.

Shop this product: madewell.com/the-transport-tote-53228.html

The Madewell Carryall

The Madewell Carryall is a slightly more structured and polished tote designed for supreme everyday functionality. Its clean lines and more compact silhouette make it an excellent choice for work and commuting, offering enough space for daily essentials while maintaining a tidy, streamlined look. The focus is on chic utility, providing thoughtful organization without sacrificing style.

• What it is: A structured and versatile tote bag designed with clean, minimalist lines for a refined yet practical look.
• Key features: Made from durable leather or canvas, it features a more rigid shape that stands on its own. It typically offers better internal organization, including slip or zip pockets, to keep your essentials in place.
• Price: ~$125 - $180, usually priced slightly below the classic Transport Tote.
• Materials/Construction: Often made from durable canvas or a more rigid, coated leather that holds its shape. The handles and construction are sturdy and built for daily use.
• Sizing/Fit: Slightly more compact than the Transport Tote, measuring around 14" wide and 11" high. The size is perfect for carrying a tablet, book, wallet, and other daily necessities without feeling bulky.
• Pros: Structured shape helps keep your belongings organized and easy to find. Its polished appearance is perfect for office settings. More manageable size for everyday carry. Can be more lightweight depending on the material.
• Cons: Less overall carrying capacity than the Transport Tote. The structured design can feel less relaxed or casual. Doesn't possess the same iconic "lived-in" slouchiness.

The Carryall is for the person seeking a reliable, polished bag that transitions seamlessly from professional settings to weekend activities, with an emphasis on organization.

Shop this product: madewell.com/the-essential-carryall-tote-in-leather-NN472.html

The Transport Tote vs. The Carryall Comparison

Style & Aesthetic

The most significant difference lies here. The Transport Tote is the essence of effortless, casual cool. Its unstructured, slouchy shape gives it a laid-back feel that is perfect for pairing with jeans, sweaters, and drapey dresses. It molds to your body and develops a personal character the more you use it.

In contrast, the Carryall presents a more structured and professional aesthetic. Its clean, defined lines provide a classic, polished look that elevates an outfit. This makes it an especially strong choice for work environments or for anyone who prefers a tidy, streamlined silhouette in their accessories. It’s less "bohemian" and more "classic."

Size & Capacity

The Transport Tote is the clear winner if capacity is your top priority. It's noticeably larger, wider, and deeper, designed to be a true "carry-all" in every sense. It easily handles a laptop, charger, change of shoes, water bottle, and more, making it an excellent bag for work, a weekend trip, or even as a chic diaper bag.

The Carryall is more modest in size. While it can still fit many daily essentials like a tablet, wallet, and cosmetic case, it’s not designed for oversized loads. Its slightly smaller footprint makes it more manageable for commuting and less likely to feel overwhelming on a smaller frame.

Functionality & Organization

Your preference for organization will heavily influence your choice. The iconic Transport Tote is essentially one large, open bucket with a single interior zip pocket. This works for those who like to toss things in and go, but requires pouches or organizers if you want to avoid digging for your keys.

The Carryall, by design, offers better function for the organized. Its structured walls prevent everything from toppling into a pile, and it tends to offer more built-in slip pockets or compartments. This thoughtful design makes it easier to keep your phone, keys, and wallet within easy reach, a key feature for a professional daily driver.

Price & Value

Both bags are priced competitively within the accessible luxury market and represent excellent value for their quality. The leather Transport Tote is often slightly more expensive, reflecting its iconic status and generous use of high-quality leather. The Carryall typically offers a slightly lower price point, especially in its canvas versions.

Sales are common for both styles at Madewell, especially during holiday periods, so savvy shoppers can often find either bag at a significant discount. The "better value" truly depends on whether you prioritize maximum space and iconic style (Transport) or polished structure and organization (Carryall).

Which One Should You Choose?

Both Madewell totes are excellent investments, but they serve different people with different needs.

Choose the Transport Tote if:

• You need a bag that can genuinely carry everything, including a 15" laptop, gym clothes, and more.
• You admire a relaxed, slouchy, and effortless aesthetic in your accessories.
• You love the character of high-quality leather that softens and patinas over time.
• Your personal style leans casual, and you want a versatile bag that's never out of place.

Choose the Carryall if:

• You prioritize organization and prefer a structured bag that keeps items easy to find.
• You need a polished and professional tote that looks sharp in an office setting.
• You prefer a more compact, manageable bag for everyday commuting.
• Your style is classic and streamlined, and you prefer an accessory with clean lines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between the Madewell Transport Tote and the Carryall?

The biggest difference is structure and style. The Transport Tote is slouchy, unstructured, and larger, with a casual vibe. The Carryall is structured, more organized, and has a polished, professional look.

Can the Madewell Transport Tote fit a laptop?

Yes, the classic Transport Tote can easily fit most 13-inch and 15-inch laptops, along with other accessories, making it a popular choice for work and school.

Is the Madewell Carryall a good work bag?

Absolutely. Its structured design, professional appearance, and internal pockets make the Carryall an ideal choice for the office. It keeps your essentials organized and looks neat and tidy.

Which tote is bigger, the Transport Tote or the Carryall?

The Transport Tote is bigger and offers more overall capacity. The Carryall is slightly more compact, designed for essential carry without the extra bulk.

How do you care for a Madewell leather tote?

Madewell recommends using a leather conditioner periodically to keep the leather moisturized and protected. It's also best to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and heavy rain, and to store it in a dust bag when not in use.

Do Madewell totes ever go on sale?

Yes, Madewell frequently includes its handbags, including variations of the Transport Tote and Carryall, in its seasonal sales and promotional events. It's worth watching the site for discounts.

Is the Transport Tote heavy?

Made entirely of leather, the tote itself has some weight. When fully loaded, it can become quite heavy, which is something to consider if you have shoulder or back sensitivities.

Does the Carryall have pockets?

Yes, a key feature of the Carryall is its emphasis on organization. It typically includes either a zip pocket, slip pockets, or both to help keep smaller items separate and easy to access.