Best Gear Totes

Gear totes are essential for outdoor enthusiasts, travelers, and anyone needing reliable storage solutions for their gear. These versatile containers provide secure storage and easy transport for various items, from camping gear and sports equipment to tools and clothing. This comprehensive guide will explore the best gear totes on the market, their features, benefits, and how to choose the right one for your needs. By the end of this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision and enhance your storage and transport capabilities.

1. Introduction to Gear Totes

Gear totes are durable storage containers designed to keep your gear organized and protected. They come in various sizes, materials, and designs, making them suitable for multiple applications. Whether you’re heading out for a camping trip, organizing your garage, or transporting tools to a job site, a high-quality gear tote can make a significant difference in your efficiency and convenience.

2. Benefits of Using a Gear Tote

Using a gear tote offers several advantages, including:

• Organization: Helps keep your gear organized and easily accessible.
• Protection: Provides protection from the elements, dust, and impacts.
• Durability: Built to withstand rugged conditions and heavy use.
• Portability: Easy to carry and transport.
• Versatility: Suitable for various applications and environments.

Organization

Gear totes are designed with multiple compartments, pockets, and dividers to help you keep your gear organized. This organization ensures that you can quickly find and access your items when needed, saving you time and effort.

Protection

Gear totes provide protection from the elements, dust, and impacts, keeping your gear safe and secure. They are made from durable materials that resist water, dust, and physical damage, ensuring your gear remains in good condition.

Durability

Gear totes are built to withstand rugged conditions and heavy use. They are made from high-quality materials like heavy-duty plastics, reinforced fabrics, and metal hardware, ensuring long-lasting performance.

Portability

Gear totes are designed to be easy to carry and transport. They come with handles, straps, and wheels, making it convenient to move your gear from one location to another.

Versatility

Gear totes are versatile and suitable for various applications and environments. Whether you’re camping, hiking, working on a job site, or organizing your home, gear totes provide a reliable storage solution for all your needs.

3. Key Features to Consider

When choosing a gear tote, several key features should be considered:

• Size: Determines how much gear the tote can hold.
• Material: Affects durability and weight.
• Compartments and Pockets: Help keep your gear organized.
• Closure System: Ensures secure and easy access to your gear.
• Handles and Straps: Affect portability and comfort.
• Wheels: Enhance mobility for heavy loads.
• Water Resistance: Protects your gear from moisture.
• Stackability: Allows for efficient storage and transport.
• Price: Varies based on features and quality.

Size

The size of the gear tote determines how much gear it can hold. Gear totes come in various sizes, from small containers for personal items to large totes for bulky gear. Consider the amount of gear you need to store and transport when choosing the size of your gear tote.

Material

The material of the gear tote affects its durability and weight. Common materials include heavy-duty plastics, reinforced fabrics, and metal hardware. Look for totes made from high-quality materials that can withstand rugged conditions and heavy use.

Compartments and Pockets

Compartments and pockets help keep your gear organized and easily accessible. Look for gear totes with multiple compartments, pockets, and dividers to ensure your items are well-organized and easy to find.

Closure System

The closure system of the gear tote ensures that your gear is secure and easy to access. Common closure systems include zippers, buckles, and latches. Choose a closure system that is durable and easy to use.

Handles and Straps

Handles and straps affect the portability and comfort of the gear tote. Look for totes with comfortable handles and adjustable straps for easy carrying. Some totes also come with padded handles or shoulder straps for added comfort.

Wheels

Wheels enhance the mobility of the gear tote, especially for heavy loads. Look for totes with durable wheels and a sturdy frame to ensure smooth and easy transport.

Water Resistance

Water resistance protects your gear from moisture and the elements. Look for gear totes made from water-resistant materials or those with a waterproof coating to keep your gear dry and protected.

Stackability

Stackability allows for efficient storage and transport of multiple gear totes. Look for totes with a stackable design and reinforced corners to ensure they can be safely stacked on top of each other.

Price

Gear totes come in a range of prices based on their features and quality. Determine your budget and find a tote that offers the best value for your money. While more expensive totes often provide superior durability and features, there are also budget-friendly options that offer good performance.

4. Types of Gear Totes

There are several types of gear totes, each designed to suit different storage and transport needs:

• Plastic Storage Totes: Durable and versatile, suitable for various applications.
• Fabric Gear Totes: Lightweight and flexible, ideal for personal items and clothing.
• Rolling Gear Totes: Equipped with wheels for easy transport of heavy loads.
• Waterproof Gear Totes: Provide protection from moisture and the elements.
• Collapsible Gear Totes: Foldable design for easy storage when not in use.
• Heavy-Duty Gear Totes: Built for rugged conditions and heavy use.

Plastic Storage Totes

Plastic storage totes are durable and versatile containers suitable for various applications. They are made from heavy-duty plastics that resist impacts, moisture, and dust. Plastic storage totes come in various sizes and designs, making them ideal for organizing and transporting gear.

Fabric Gear Totes

Fabric gear totes are lightweight and flexible, making them ideal for personal items and clothing. They are made from reinforced fabrics that provide durability and protection from the elements. Fabric gear totes often come with multiple compartments and pockets for organization.

Rolling Gear Totes

Rolling gear totes are equipped with wheels for easy transport of heavy loads. They are ideal for transporting gear over long distances or rough terrain. Rolling gear totes come with durable wheels and a sturdy frame to ensure smooth and easy mobility.

Waterproof Gear Totes

Waterproof gear totes provide protection from moisture and the elements. They are made from water-resistant materials or have a waterproof coating to keep your gear dry and protected. Waterproof gear totes are ideal for outdoor activities, such as camping, hiking, and boating.

Collapsible Gear Totes

Collapsible gear totes have a foldable design for easy storage when not in use. They are lightweight and compact, making them ideal for travel and storage in small spaces. Collapsible gear totes are versatile and suitable for various applications.

Heavy-Duty Gear Totes

Heavy-duty gear totes are built for rugged conditions and heavy use. They are made from high-quality materials and reinforced with metal hardware to ensure durability and long-lasting performance. Heavy-duty gear totes are ideal for job sites, outdoor adventures, and demanding environments.

5. Top Gear Totes on the Market

1. Plano Sportsman’s Trunk

• Type: Plastic Storage Tote
• Size: 108-quart capacity
• Material: Heavy-duty plastic
• Compartments and Pockets: Single large compartment
• Closure System: Latching lid with padlock tabs
• Handles and Straps: Molded handles
• Wheels: No
• Water Resistance: Water-resistant
• Stackability: Yes
• Price: Moderate

The Plano Sportsman’s Trunk is a versatile and durable storage tote designed for outdoor enthusiasts. With a 108-quart capacity, this tote provides ample storage space for your gear. It is made from heavy-duty plastic that resists impacts and moisture, ensuring your gear remains protected. The latching lid with padlock tabs provides secure closure, and the molded handles make it easy to carry. The Plano Sportsman’s Trunk is water-resistant and stackable, making it an ideal choice for camping, hunting, and other outdoor activities.

2. Rubbermaid ActionPacker

• Type: Plastic Storage Tote
• Size: 48-gallon capacity
• Material: High-density polyethylene
• Compartments and Pockets: Single large compartment
• Closure System: Lockable latches
• Handles and Straps: Molded handles
• Wheels: No
• Water Resistance: Weather-resistant
• Stackability: Yes
• Price: High

The Rubbermaid ActionPacker is a high-capacity, heavy-duty storage tote designed for rugged conditions. With a 48-gallon capacity, this tote provides ample space for your gear. It is made from high-density polyethylene, which resists impacts, moisture, and UV damage. The lockable latches ensure secure closure, and the molded handles make it easy to carry. The Rubbermaid ActionPacker is weather-resistant and stackable, making it an excellent choice for outdoor adventures and job sites.

3. Sterilite Footlocker

• Type: Plastic Storage Tote
• Size: 92-quart capacity
• Material: Durable plastic
• Compartments and Pockets: Single large compartment
• Closure System: Latching lid with padlock tabs
• Handles and Straps: Wheels and pull handle
• Wheels: Yes
• Water Resistance: Water-resistant
• Stackability: Yes
• Price: Moderate

The Sterilite Footlocker is a versatile and portable storage tote designed for easy transport. With a 92-quart capacity, this tote provides ample space for your gear. It is made from durable plastic that resists impacts and moisture, ensuring your gear remains protected. The latching lid with padlock tabs provides secure closure, and the wheels and pull handle make it easy to transport. The Sterilite Footlocker is water-resistant and stackable, making it an ideal choice for travel, camping, and other outdoor activities.

4. YETI LoadOut GoBox 30

• Type: Heavy-Duty Gear Tote
• Size: 30-liter capacity
• Material: High-density polyethylene
• Compartments and Pockets: Removable caddy and divider
• Closure System: Latching lid with lockable slots
• Handles and Straps: Rubber grip handles
• Wheels: No
• Water Resistance: Waterproof
• Stackability: Yes
• Price: High

The YETI LoadOut GoBox 30 is a heavy-duty gear tote designed for rugged conditions and demanding environments. With a 30-liter capacity, this tote provides ample space for your essential gear. It is made from high-density polyethylene, which resists impacts, moisture, and UV damage. The latching lid with lockable slots ensures secure closure, and the rubber grip handles make it easy to carry. The YETI LoadOut GoBox 30 is waterproof and stackable, making it an excellent choice for outdoor adventures, job sites, and travel.

5. Pelican Air Case 1535

• Type: Heavy-Duty Gear Tote
• Size: 35-liter capacity
• Material: Lightweight HPX resin
• Compartments and Pockets: Customizable foam inserts
• Closure System: Press and pull latches with padlock protectors
• Handles and Straps: Retractable handle and over-molded handles
• Wheels: Yes
• Water Resistance: Waterproof
• Stackability: Yes
• Price: High

The Pelican Air Case 1535 is a lightweight and durable gear tote designed for professional use and rugged conditions. With a 35-liter capacity, this tote provides ample space for your gear. It is made from lightweight HPX resin, which resists impacts, moisture, and UV damage. The press and pull latches with padlock protectors ensure secure closure, and the retractable handle and over-molded handles make it easy to transport. The Pelican Air Case 1535 is waterproof and stackable, making it an excellent choice for travel, job sites, and outdoor adventures.

6. REDCAMP Foldable Duffle Bag

• Type: Fabric Gear Tote
• Size: 140-liter capacity
• Material: 210D Oxford fabric
• Compartments and Pockets: Large main compartment with external pockets
• Closure System: Zipper closure
• Handles and Straps: Adjustable shoulder straps and carry handles
• Wheels: No
• Water Resistance: Water-resistant
• Stackability: No
• Price: Budget-friendly

The REDCAMP Foldable Duffle Bag is a lightweight and flexible gear tote designed for easy transport and storage. With a 140-liter capacity, this tote provides ample space for your gear. It is made from 210D Oxford fabric, which is durable and water-resistant. The large main compartment and external pockets help keep your gear organized, and the zipper closure ensures secure storage. The adjustable shoulder straps and carry handles make it easy to carry. The REDCAMP Foldable Duffle Bag is water-resistant and budget-friendly, making it an ideal choice for travel, camping, and everyday use.

7. Akro-Mils KeepBox Attached Lid Container

• Type: Plastic Storage Tote
• Size: 12-gallon capacity
• Material: High-density polyethylene
• Compartments and Pockets: Single large compartment
• Closure System: Attached lid with snap-lock closure
• Handles and Straps: Molded handles
• Wheels: No
• Water Resistance: Weather-resistant
• Stackability: Yes
• Price: Budget-friendly

The Akro-Mils KeepBox Attached Lid Container is a durable and versatile storage tote designed for various applications. With a 12-gallon capacity, this tote provides ample space for your gear. It is made from high-density polyethylene, which resists impacts and moisture. The attached lid with snap-lock closure ensures secure storage, and the molded handles make it easy to carry. The Akro-Mils KeepBox is weather-resistant and stackable, making it an ideal choice for organizing your home, garage, or job site.

8. WolfWise Collapsible Storage Bin

• Type: Collapsible Gear Tote
• Size: 50-liter capacity
• Material: Oxford fabric and PE board
• Compartments and Pockets: Multiple compartments and pockets
• Closure System: Zipper closure
• Handles and Straps: Carry handles
• Wheels: No
• Water Resistance: Water-resistant
• Stackability: No
• Price: Budget-friendly

The WolfWise Collapsible Storage Bin is a lightweight and flexible gear tote designed for easy storage and transport. With a 50-liter capacity, this tote provides ample space for your gear. It is made from Oxford fabric and PE board, which are durable and water-resistant. The multiple compartments and pockets help keep your gear organized, and the zipper closure ensures secure storage. The carry handles make it easy to transport. The WolfWise Collapsible Storage Bin is water-resistant and budget-friendly, making it an ideal choice for travel, camping, and everyday use.

9. Plano Guide Series 3700 XL

• Type: Heavy-Duty Gear Tote
• Size: 50-quart capacity
• Material: High-density polyethylene
• Compartments and Pockets: Multiple compartments and removable utility boxes
• Closure System: Latching lid
• Handles and Straps: Molded handles and shoulder strap
• Wheels: No
• Water Resistance: Water-resistant
• Stackability: Yes
• Price: High

The Plano Guide Series 3700 XL is a heavy-duty gear tote designed for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. With a 50-quart capacity, this tote provides ample space for your gear. It is made from high-density polyethylene, which resists impacts and moisture. The multiple compartments and removable utility boxes help keep your gear organized, and the latching lid ensures secure storage. The molded handles and shoulder strap make it easy to carry. The Plano Guide Series 3700 XL is water-resistant and stackable, making it an excellent choice for fishing, camping, and other outdoor activities.

10. Husky Mobile Workbench Utility Cart

• Type: Rolling Gear Tote
• Size: 50-gallon capacity
• Material: Heavy-duty plastic and steel frame
• Compartments and Pockets: Multiple compartments and drawers
• Closure System: Latching drawers and doors
• Handles and Straps: Push handle
• Wheels: Yes
• Water Resistance: Weather-resistant
• Stackability: No
• Price: High

The Husky Mobile Workbench Utility Cart is a heavy-duty rolling gear tote designed for job sites and workshops. With a 50-gallon capacity, this tote provides ample space for your tools and gear. It is made from heavy-duty plastic and a steel frame, which resists impacts and moisture. The multiple compartments and drawers help keep your gear organized, and the latching drawers and doors ensure secure storage. The push handle and durable wheels make it easy to transport. The Husky Mobile Workbench Utility Cart is weather-resistant and built for rugged conditions, making it an excellent choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

6. Comparison of Top Gear Totes

7. How to Choose the Right Gear Tote for You

Choosing the right gear tote depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:

Intended Use

• Outdoor Activities: For camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities, consider a gear tote that is durable, water-resistant, and easy to carry. Options like the YETI LoadOut GoBox 30 and Plano Sportsman’s Trunk are excellent choices for their durability and weather resistance.
• Travel: For travel, choose a gear tote that is lightweight, portable, and easy to store. The REDCAMP Foldable Duffle Bag and Sterilite Footlocker are ideal for their portability and convenience.
• Job Sites: For job sites, look for a heavy-duty gear tote with ample storage space and durability. The Husky Mobile Workbench Utility Cart and Pelican Air Case 1535 are excellent choices for their rugged construction and organizational features.
• Home Organization: For organizing your home or garage, consider a gear tote that is stackable and easy to access. The Akro-Mils KeepBox and Rubbermaid ActionPacker are great options for their stackability and secure closure.

Size

Consider the amount of gear you need to store and transport when choosing the size of your gear tote. Larger totes provide more storage space but may be more cumbersome to carry. Smaller totes are more portable but may not hold as much gear. Choose a size that meets your storage needs while remaining manageable.

Material

The material of the gear tote affects its durability and weight. Heavy-duty plastics, reinforced fabrics, and metal hardware provide excellent durability and protection from the elements. Choose a material that suits your intended use and ensures long-lasting performance.

Compartments and Pockets

Compartments and pockets help keep your gear organized and easily accessible. Look for gear totes with multiple compartments, pockets, and dividers to ensure your items are well-organized and easy to find.

Closure System

The closure system of the gear tote ensures that your gear is secure and easy to access. Common closure systems include zippers, buckles, and latches. Choose a closure system that is durable and easy to use.

Handles and Straps

Handles and straps affect the portability and comfort of the gear tote. Look for totes with comfortable handles and adjustable straps for easy carrying. Some totes also come with padded handles or shoulder straps for added comfort.

Wheels

Wheels enhance the mobility of the gear tote, especially for heavy loads. Look for totes with durable wheels and a sturdy frame to ensure smooth and easy transport.

Water Resistance

Water resistance protects your gear from moisture and the elements. Look for gear totes made from water-resistant materials or those with a waterproof coating to keep your gear dry and protected.

Stackability

Stackability allows for efficient storage and transport of multiple gear totes. Look for totes with a stackable design and reinforced corners to ensure they can be safely stacked on top of each other.

Price

Gear totes come in a range of prices based on their features and quality. Determine your budget and find a tote that offers the best value for your money. While more expensive totes often provide superior durability and features, there are also budget-friendly options that offer good performance.

8. Maintenance and Care Tips

Proper maintenance and care of your gear tote can extend its lifespan and ensure optimal performance:

Regular Cleaning

• Interior Cleaning: Regularly clean the interior of your gear tote to remove dirt, debris, and moisture. Use a damp cloth and mild soap to wipe down the interior surfaces. Ensure the tote is completely dry before storing it to prevent mold and mildew growth.
• Exterior Cleaning: Clean the exterior of your gear tote to remove dirt and grime. Use a damp cloth and mild soap to wipe down the exterior surfaces. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the material.

Storage

• Cool, Dry Place: Store your gear tote in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent UV damage and material degradation.
• Avoid Overloading: Avoid overloading your gear tote to prevent damage to the handles, straps, and closure system. Distribute the weight evenly to ensure the tote remains stable and easy to carry.

Inspection

• Check for Damage: Regularly inspect your gear tote for signs of wear and tear, such as loose stitching, tears, or broken zippers. Repair any damage promptly to prevent further deterioration.
• Lubricate Moving Parts: Lubricate any moving parts, such as wheels and hinges, to ensure smooth operation.

Repairs

• Repair Kits: Keep a repair kit with patch materials, adhesive, and spare parts for quick fixes. Most manufacturers provide repair kits specifically designed for their gear totes.
• Professional Repairs: For significant damage, consider seeking professional repairs to ensure the tote’s integrity and performance.

9. Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of gear tote for outdoor activities?

The best type of gear tote for outdoor activities depends on your specific needs. For durability and weather resistance, consider heavy-duty gear totes like the YETI LoadOut GoBox 30 and Plano Sportsman’s Trunk. For portability and ease of transport, consider fabric gear totes like the REDCAMP Foldable Duffle Bag.

How do I choose the right size gear tote?

Choose the right size gear tote based on the amount of gear you need to store and transport. Larger totes provide more storage space but may be more cumbersome to carry. Smaller totes are more portable but may not hold as much gear. Consider your storage needs and choose a size that meets your requirements.

Are gear totes waterproof?

Not all gear totes are waterproof, but many are water-resistant. Look for gear totes made from water-resistant materials or those with a waterproof coating to protect your gear from moisture and the elements. Waterproof gear totes like the YETI LoadOut GoBox 30 and Pelican Air Case 1535 provide excellent protection from water.

Can I use a gear tote for travel?

Yes, gear totes are versatile and can be used for travel. Look for gear totes that are lightweight, portable, and easy to store. Options like the REDCAMP Foldable Duffle Bag and Sterilite Footlocker are ideal for travel due to their portability and convenience.

How do I clean my gear tote?

To clean your gear tote, wipe down the interior and exterior surfaces with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the material. Ensure the tote is completely dry before storing it to prevent mold and mildew growth.

What features should I look for in a gear tote?

Look for features such as size, material durability, compartments and pockets, closure system, handles and straps, wheels, water resistance, stackability, and price. Consider your specific needs and activities when choosing a gear tote with the right features for you.

Are expensive gear totes worth it?

Expensive gear totes often provide superior durability, features, and build quality. They are made from high-quality materials and designed for long-lasting performance. While they may be more costly, they offer long-term value and reliability for serious users. Determine your budget and find a gear tote that offers the best value for your money.

Can I stack multiple gear totes?

Many gear totes are designed to be stackable, allowing for efficient storage and transport of multiple totes. Look for totes with a stackable design and reinforced corners to ensure they can be safely stacked on top of each other. Options like the Akro-Mils KeepBox and Rubbermaid ActionPacker are excellent choices for stackable storage.

How do I maintain the durability of my gear tote?

Maintain the durability of your gear tote by regularly cleaning it, storing it properly, and inspecting it for damage. Use a damp cloth and mild soap to clean the tote, and ensure it is completely dry before storing it. Avoid overloading the tote and distribute the weight evenly. Repair any damage promptly to prevent further deterioration.

What is the best material for a gear tote?

The best material for a gear tote depends on your intended use. Heavy-duty plastics and reinforced fabrics provide excellent durability and protection from the elements. Metal hardware and high-density polyethylene offer added strength and impact resistance. Choose a material that suits your specific needs and ensures long-lasting performance.

10. Conclusion

Choosing the best gear tote is essential for enhancing your storage and transport capabilities. By considering factors such as intended use, size, material, compartments and pockets, closure system, handles and straps, wheels, water resistance, stackability, and price, you can find the perfect gear tote to meet your specific needs.

Whether you prefer plastic storage totes, fabric gear totes, rolling gear totes, waterproof gear totes, collapsible gear totes, or heavy-duty gear totes, there are plenty of high-quality options available on the market. Proper maintenance and care can ensure your gear tote remains in top condition, providing years of reliable performance.

With the information provided in this comprehensive guide, you are well-equipped to make an informed decision and choose the best gear tote for your next adventure. Enhance your organization, protection, and convenience with a reliable and well-designed gear tote.