A roundup of our most-used summer beach bags
image via @mimmiterra/INSTAGRAM
words by daisy henry
The ultimate carry-all.
Finding the perfect beach bag is a tall order. Though it can depend on the person, the criteria is fairly consistent: it must be big enough to fit the essentials (bathers, towel, book), waterproof (suede has no place near the ocean) and clip or zip up at the top to avoid everything spilling out. Bonus points if it looks good.
For more fashion news, shoots, articles and features, head to our Fashion section.
A canvas tote bag is always handy to keep in your car boot or hanging on your bedroom door, but a proper beach bag is designed to endure the wear and tear that comes with a summer well spent. It’s engineered to survive sand, squashed mangoes and the harsh UV rays from the Australian sun.
We’ve documented our favourite accessory labels before, and the work bags getting us through our nine-to-five, but these are our tried-and-tested, beach-proof bags carrying us through the summer.
Pan After Plaid Bag
View this post on Instagram
Melbourne boutique Pan After’s range of Plaid Bags are handmade in India from recycled nylon. Strong and durable, the handle is thankfully long enough to sit comfortably over your sunburnt shoulder. Choose from nine different colour ways.
Find it here.
Exotic Import Shopping Bag
View this post on Instagram
Coming it at $20, you’d be hard-pressed finding a beach bag that gives you more bang for your buck. Designed by local Melbourne label Exotic Import, it’s made from durable, waterproof plastic material with high-strength handles. Though it may lack the a button to fasten it at the top, sand practically rolls right off it (a fair compromise).
Get it here.
Suku Home Check Pinch Shirred Bag
View this post on Instagram
Suku Home’s Check Pinch Shirred Bag is soft, lightweight and made from 100 per cent cotton. Though it falls on the smaller side, it’s still large enough to fit a tightly rolled up towel, book and sunscreen.
Find it here.
Mimmi Terra Eco Tote
View this post on Instagram
Designed in Australia, Mimmi Terra’s handmade, woven totes have caught our heart. The range comes in three sizes (mini, eco and traveller), ranging from $85 to $175. Find a wide range of colours, including two-tone weaves and classic monochrome.
Find it here.
Virk Bags Margaux
View this post on Instagram
Virk is a Melbourne-based accessory label founded by Swedish sisters, Olivia and Ellen. Though its most known for its made-to-order macramé and crochet bags, the Margaux is an unexpectedly fun beach bag option. Crafted from thrifted curtains, it’s made for everyday movement, easily fitting your essentials if you’re prepared to throw your towel over your shoulder.
Find it here.
Zulu and Zephyr Raffia Bucket Bag
View this post on Instagram
Zulu and Zephyr is an Australian fashion label synonymous with the beach. Crafted from 100 per cent natural raffia, this bucket bag is slouchy yet structured, with a wide strap designed to sit comfortably on your shoulder. If raffia is your thing, find more options from the label here.
Find it here.
Eau Vacay Bag
View this post on Instagram
Eau’s oversized Vacay bag is perfect for a trip to the pool, a day at the beach or a weekend away. A closed style with an internal pocket, it comes with a double-handle design and lies flat for easy storage. Handmade in India, it’s made from 100 per cent nylon and comes in a range of bright colours.
Get it here.
Palorosa Tote Basket
View this post on Instagram
Founded by Italian-Guatemalan landscape architect, Cecilia Pirani, Palorosa’s tote bags are made for everyday life. Made by local Guatemalan artisans, preserving local handcraft processes, each bag is crafted using recycled plastic and natural fibers and stocked at a handful of Australian retailers including Pan After and Kind Curations.
Find it here.
For more summer accessories, try this.
Liked this? You’ll love these...
