Totes III

     Once we get past no frills totes, there are a variety of pockets designed for accessory or organizational purposes.  Totes can have pockets or loops for pens, business cards, USB memories, sunglasses, water bottles and other assorted items.  These pockets can be open, zippered, velcroed, elasticized or have a drawstring closure.  The size and placement of these extra pockets varies, but these organizational goodies handle the tiny, loose items which you might otherwise just toss into the bottom of the tote, the items you need to have handy, or just items you wish to keep separate.

     Totes designed for trade shows and other business purposes will often have exterior pen loops and a small pocket for business cards.  These pen loops can be found as part of a bigger pocket or even by themselves on the handle of the bag.  A D-ring is often attached to the bag for keys.

     With the advent of so many personal technology products, special pockets built especially for cell/smart phones, mp3s and tablets are becoming more and more popular.  It's important to have your connections handy, without the need to search for them.  And if you are already carrying your devices, you need to have an earbud port to listen in.

     Water bottle pockets are typically mesh and usually found on the side of the bag.  If the bottles are dripping or leaking, the water does not get trapped inside these pockets.  Since it is an exterior pocket, the contents of the main compartment remain dry.  For the same reasons, this type of pocket is also handy for an umbrella

Tote on!