Today’s post has been born of my repeated frustration with myself to remember a blinking bag whenever I go out shopping. Since the charges on plastic bags came into effect earlier this year I often find myself dipping my hand into my purse for a 5p here and a 5p there to pay for a bag to carry my shopping. A bag I promised myself I would remember the last time I went out shopping, to add to the trillion already sat at home in a special corner for me to take out with me on my travels.

So I’m considerably out of pocket and I have enough plastic to make Barbie very happy indeed. Whatever the reason may be I can never seem to remember to take a carrier bag out with me so I’ve decided that what I really need is a shopper. Something that looks pretty or makes me laugh and which I can fold up and put in the baby changing bag when it’s not in use. Here are my top ten shoppers and totes picks on sale right now!

ASOS: £25

Perhaps the most robust of the selection here because of its canvas and leather blend, this tote channels a more masculine vibe which means your man can do all the lifting when your bag gets too heavy to hold. The interior is lined and there is a zipped inner pocket too, plus the strap is both removable and adjustable. Happy days.

Ban.do at ASOS: £18

This bag made me laugh because frankly this is really what I’d like to be carrying in my shopper. The reality is that it’s less champagne and more baby milk and not so many bonbons but more a shed load of nappies. This is my ‘in an alternate reality’ bag plus the little reminder inside the tote is super cute too!

Etsy: From £13.59

We all know about my penchant for gin so this bag with alcohol inspired quote made me laugh. But I like this milkshake bag even more (it reminded me of Charlotte actually). Both available from the same seller on Etsy, the bags are made from super thick 8oz cotton canvas, so will happily hold up to daily wear and tear. Plus you’ll probably make a whole load of folks laugh whilst you’re out shopping; it’s all about giving back peeps.

I found this grown-ass lady bag when I was browsing through Emily’s shop for a few birthday cards (she makes the funniest greetings cards for all occasions by the way so check out her shop). The shopper has been created using a high-quality, heavyweight canvas and comes with a gusseted bottom and long handles too so you won’t get armpit ache. Is that a thing?

The White Company: £12

Simple and classic – which is what The White Company does best, this shopper is stylish whilst providing a feel good message too. Not only that, all profits from the sale of the bag are donated to The White Company’s charity – White Heart Foundation, which supports two fantastic charities: Refuge and The Prince’s Trust. Made from 100% cotton, it’s a stylish all-purpose bag with a lovely sentiment behind it.

Boden: £19

If you’re feeling festive and want to show it then these two totes from Boden could be right up your alley. Choose from a red-nosed Rudolph or a snowy London scene. Made from a cotton canvas the shoppers are unlined but they do have a inner pocket. Plus who can resist a bag with a pompom nose on it…we can’t!

Oliver Bonas: £15

Perfect for those of us who like a bit of monogrammed action, this grey canvas shopper comes complete with a funky yellow zip fastening. Opt for one with the initial of your name or go for multiples and spell out a word that means something to you. We might just get an ‘R’ an ‘M’ and an ‘S’ for our team adventures…

Topshop: £25

This raspberry ripple suede bag is perhaps the priciest of all in this selection but I love it with a capital ‘L’. The bag has an embossed snake texture and is roomy enough to carry your entire journey’s worth of shop. It almost seems a shame to fold it away after using it when it looks this good. Stocks were running low online the last time I looked but there seem to be plenty in store if you can be bothered to venture into town in the Christmas rush!

John Lewis: £18

One for the mummies out there….this practical, wipe clean tote bag by Milly Green at John Lewis is emblazoned with colourful and iconic London images. Oh and with a touch of bunting too. You can’t go wrong with bunting on a bag. If London isn’t your thing then perhaps we can tempt you with chickens by Sophie Allport also at John Lewis. Plus there are accessories to match if you’re a fan of her print. Both are gorgeously made and priced at a bargainous £18.00.

Have any of you been caught out by the plastic bag tax or are you all super organised and keep a stash in the car. I really should start doing that too! Are there any bags I should know about…perhaps I could treat myself for Christmas.

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