When it comes to timeless travel bags, look no further than MZ Wallace’s Metro tote. Available in five sizes (micro, mini, small, medium, and large) and a slew of hues (from basic black to matte silver), this Condé Nast Traveler editor favorite stands out for its classic design and durable construction. Made of water-resistant quilted nylon, the tote is equal parts functional and stylish. It’s also incredibly versatile: Depending on the size, I’ve found it to work just as well as an overnight bag as it does a diaper bag or work bag.
When I found out I was expecting twins last year, I researched different diaper bags to be ready when the babies arrived. I knew I needed a large bag since I’d have to pack twice as many essentials. Still, I didn’t quite anticipate how bulky everything would be, which is why finding the right diaper bag for my twins meant actually looking outside of the category altogether.
I had long been a fan of MZ Wallace’s Medium Metro tote—so much so that I own two of them. After a few diaper bags I tried were literally busting at the seams upon packing up my essentials, it occurred to me to try the large version of the Metro tote I already know and love.
The deluxe large tote:
Of course, its larger size was the first thing that piqued my interest. Not only did my six bottles, extra formula, diapers, wipes, medicine, portable sound machine, four outfits, and other essentials all fit comfortably inside, but I even had a little extra room, too, which meant I could easily throw in my wallet and keys without having to schlep along my own separate bag. The tote also came with three detachable pouches—one small, one medium, and one large—which made it easier to stay organized on the go. In addition to the pouches, the bag has over 10 pockets (five exterior, six interior), along with a dedicated phone pocket (which I also use to hold my AirPods), and a key ring strap. One thing to note: While I use the internal pockets and pouches, it can be tricky to tell what is inside which one since they’re al the same color and are opaque. So, I sometimes have to take out stuff to find what I’m looking for. That said, MZ Wallace also makes a Large Metro Travel tote, which is almost identical to the Deluxe except that it has nine exterior pockets, four of which are on the front of the bag.
When the bag is fully packed, it’s pretty heavy, so instead of using the shoulder straps, I often opt for the detachable nylon strap, which can be worn crossbody or hung directly onto my double stroller for hands-free carrying. The luggage sleeve was especially handy when I took the twins through the airport for the first time last month, and the zippered closure kept everything safe and securely stowed away when rummaging through security and subsequently shoving the bag under my airplane seat. Keep in mind that since this isn’t designed as a diaper bag, there are no built-in bottle compartments—I rely on Ziploc bags or packing cubes to store mine.
The medium tote:
If the large version feels a little bit too big for your day-to-day needs, the medium size might be a better option. It’s the tote you can rely on for day trips, commutes to the office, and plane rides. It’s a favorite of commerce editor Meaghan Kenny for its neutral and easy-to-wear look, roomy interior, and thoughtful pockets. “It’s my most-used day bag—and yet it still looks good as new,” Kenny says. “I take it with me on the PATH train from New Jersey to the Condé Nast office in New York City, so it’s important to me that it has enough room for my laptop, reusable water bottle, a book, makeup essentials, and my wallet, all while still feeling lightweight and gentle on my arm.” Kenny says she prefer a tote bag over a backpack for commuting, so a bag with a soft, comfortable strap is crucial.
