Carolyn J. Braden • 4 Minute Read
The Perfect Lightweight Waterproof Jelly Tote Bags of the Year
If you’re searching for the ultimate mix of style, function, and easy maintenance, jelly tote bags are having a major moment—and for good reason. These lightweight, waterproof bags are perfect for everything from beach days to errands, travel, and even rainy commutes.
After trying several trending styles, I’ve rounded up the best jelly tote bags of the year—including my absolute favorite that checks every box.
Shop the Post
Support me as a creator and shop my links with no extra cost to you! See my creation come together via my Amazon Shop plus get buying links at affordable prices!
We also love shopping CVS (the ExtraCare card savings stack helping you to save!) and here are some of our CVS finds to stock up on (especially when you get that 40% off coupon!) and love Walmart (Walmart+ gets you free shipping and delivery on many items)!
Bookmark or pin this one by clicking the Pinterest SAVE button on the images in this article for fashion magic in an instant.
Gotta pack that sunscreen!
More Product Loves
You can also get the products and more of my product loves via my Target shop here or my CVS Store here (use your ExtraCare card to double up on savings!) and see all my jelly tote loves and more via my shop my store here or below:
Why Jelly Tote Bags Are Trending
Jelly bags are back (and better than ever). Thanks to their durable, flexible material, they’ve become a go-to for busy lifestyles. Here’s why everyone loves them:
✔️ Waterproof & beach-ready
✔️ Easy to clean (no more sand or spills stress)
✔️ Lightweight but sturdy
✔️ Stylish, colorful, and fun
✔️ Perfect for travel (many fold flat), pool days, and everyday use
I want it in all the colors!
My #1 Pick: The Best Overall Jelly Tote Bag
🏆 Case-Mate Jelly Tote Bag
This is hands-down my favorite jelly tote bag of the year—and the one I reach for constantly.
Why I love it:
💦 Fully waterproof (ideal for beach, pool, and rainy days)
🧼 Machine washable (!! major win for easy care…think lightweight DIAPER BAG!)
👜 Spacious enough for towels, sunscreen, and more
✨ Minimal, chic design that goes with everything
It’s a perfect pool or beach day bag
Unlike most jelly bags, this one doesn’t just wipe clean—you can literally toss it in the wash. It folds flat for packing in a suitcase and more! That makes it a standout if you want something low-maintenance and long-lasting. I use it as a daily purse, and evening bag and beach and pool days.
The bow detail and the waterproof case for your phone make it worth every penny and it comes in kinds of styles (bows, no bow, scarf covered handles and more). Mine is the size Large and it fits SO MUCH but it comes in a smaller size.
Some things I pack my tote with
My current “toting around” loves:
SNIF Only Sunshine (it literally smells like tropical sunshine in a bottle)
TKEES Square toe Flip Flops (comfy and so packable!)
Grab my cute bow swimsuit via my Amazon Shop here.
More of my beauty and fashion loves via my shop my storefront:
I’m a HUGE fan of Hulken totes, Hulken carry-on and the Hulken Schlep Stack. See my Hulken review here (plus get my exclusive Hulken discount link here) and one of my many reviews below via my YouTube channel @carolynjbraden:
Other Must-Have Jelly Tote Bags to Try
💎 Kurt Geiger London Jelly Vinyl Tote Bag
If you want a fashion-forward statement piece, this one delivers. It has that bold, designer look while still being functional and waterproof—perfect for elevating your everyday outfits and comes in many colors. It has a removable strap, making it highly functional for everyday use.
I love the attached waterproof phone case the Case Mate tote comes with
Looking for something cute and affordable? This is a super budget-friendly option at around $15 that’s perfect for quick trips, kids, or minimalist packing. Great entry point if you’re new to the jelly bag trend. It comes in several colors, but I like the clear because it matches everything!
🖤 Marc Jacobs The Jelly Small Tote
A high-fashion take on the trend, this bag blends the iconic tote silhouette with a jelly finish. It’s ideal if you want something polished yet practical.
My cute bowed jelly tote packable items
🌴 Dolce Vita Stella Jelly Tote Bag
This one screams summer vacation vibes. Lightweight and stylish, it’s perfect for beach days, resort wear, and casual outings. This one is very sturdy and will stand up on its own, keeping that beach sand out. You can get this on their website, but also via Anthropologie.
🛍️ Steve Madden Jelly Shopper Tote Bag
Need more space? This tote is great for shopping, travel, or work-to-gym transitions. It offers a roomy interior without feeling bulky. Like the Kurt Geiger, it has a removeable strap too. It comes with matching bag charms and an interior removable pouch.
Style it with high end fashion…this is a Dolce and Gabbanna dress
Other Jelly Totes I found that come in affordable price points and have good reviews:
Jelly totes are super lightweight
How to Choose the Best Jelly Tote Bag
When picking the right one for your lifestyle, keep these tips in mind:
Size matters: Go large for beach/travel, mini for errands
Material quality: Look for flexible yet sturdy jelly material
Ease of cleaning: Bonus points for machine washable options
Style: Clear, colorful, or designer—choose your vibe
Comfort: Check strap length and weight when full
My TKEES can easily be packed in this tote
Final Thoughts
Jelly tote bags aren’t just a trend—they’re a practical, stylish solution for everyday life. Whether you’re heading to the beach, running errands, or traveling, they offer durability without sacrificing style.
If you only try one, I highly recommend the Case-Mate Jelly Tote Bag—it truly stands out for its machine washable design, lightweight feel, and everyday versatility.
Take Action
If you try any of my ideas, let me know how it turned out—or tag me when you try them because I LOVE seeing your posts💚 If you tag me using @carolynsbloomingcreations or @carolynjbraden, I’ll see it! Or tell me about it in the comments below.
If you loved this article, then we know you’ll love this one too: How I SPROOS!-up My Shower for Cleaner Water and Glowing Skin
Carolyn J. Braden is the owner of Carolyn’s Blooming Creations is a regular contributor and editor for CBC. She has been featured in numerous media publications such as InStyle Magazine, on HGTV, on Bustle.com, and more. She is the author of the books Georgia McMasters in Amethyst Lake Cemetery, How To Be Yourself: 3 Ways To Help You Being You, and the illustrator for the children’s book Bridging Connections. She is a former classroom teacher that now dedicates her life to educating others on how to live their most healthy, creative and happy life. Learn more about her visiting our About Us page.