In these days of hurry, hurry, carry, carry, everyone needs at least one essential tote bag. No question. Throw it in the back seat or rush to board your plane; you've got your basic needs for a soccer game, a short trip or baby necessities. Check the choices; discover bright solid primary colors, whirls and prints or blocks of tones. Fabric connects with purpose.

Choose leather or at least a tidy canvas for your short flight. A re-usable environment friendly sack for your groceries should rinse clean easily. Baby bags should be easy wash and dry. That special odor of sports bag may be helped with airing and a rinse clean.

The purpose will affect the design. A grocery carry-all has an ideal open top and should have comfortable handle. If you travel by bicycle or on foot, your needs differ from a driver. Perhaps your tote can include a zippered pocket for house keys, the shopping list, and perhaps your wallet. A safe spot for a cell phone might be handy. Sometimes the supermarkets charge for plastic bags, some even give credit for people with a re-usable, a bonus.These totes are not costly and can be neatly tucked away.

Air travel that requires compact carry on types of luggage need reliable and strong zippers. One or two exterior pockets are helpful. If your lap top fits in that's a lucky step. Keep the bag unlocked for airport security. Don't stall the line-ups with using locks on your bag. Call your airline before leaving to clarify weight and height requirements. Don't be tempted to over-stuff. Not all airlines have the same rules.

Describing the carrying item of equipment, clothing, and sports specific gear as a "tote" may stretch the meaning of the word. A good many male athletes would not be looking in the locker room for anything of that description. However, it should have two strong short handles, a padded over-the-shoulder strap and a heavy zipper. A plasticized coating on the inside may repel some of the "athletic aroma."

Mothers previous packed an almost binder sized square bag for their baby needs. The newer designs have flurries of pockets on the exterior and inside. If short a buggy perhaps a baby would fit. Inside net pockets baby bottles are held in along with soothers, lotions and the sanitized wipers. Frequently there's a pocket for Mom's wallet and cell phone.

Inside, the sections are separated into areas for diapers, diaper change pads, fresh clothes, lotions, snacks, and a waterproof area for yes, the inevitable used diapers. Not all mothers are choosing the disposables. A long strap that can be worn across the chest keeps the mom's two hands free to hold, feed, or nurse her baby. Previously, pastels were the dominant look. No more. The yellows, pinks and blues are still on the shelves but otherwise expect plaids and prints and even bold flowers.

Every activity has a suitable tote. Check around. If you've got a tumbled mess in your closet or back seat, maybe it's time to pick an appropriate carrier. There's a tote bag for every purpose, you choose the size and look.