A Complete Guide to the Best Summer Tote Bags for Nurses

Nursing is consistently ranked as one of the most trusted professions in the country. Yet, the world seems to do so little to care for those working hard in our field. If you're feeling underappreciated this summer, we've got something that can cheer you up — summer tote bags for nurses!

That's right. Summer is finally here, and what better way to celebrate this sunny season than by accessorizing with the perfect tote bag? As a nurse, you need a bag that is not only stylish but also functional enough to carry all your essentials. After all, you have a lot to carry with you daily, from medical equipment to personal essentials, and you want your nursing tote to be comfortable and functional (and cute, obviously).

But with so many options, deciding which is right for you can be overwhelming. The last thing you have time to do is spend hours reading online reviews of nurse bags. That's why we've created this guide to the best summer tote bags for nurses.

Follow along as we explore the top tote bags for nurses and break down their features to help you make an informed decision. We'll include bags with various styles, sizes, and materials, so you can find the one that fits your unique needs. Stay tuned to see how you can snag a personalized bag with your name on it (trust us;you're going to want one after you see them).

The Importance of Nurse Bags

Don't think you deserve a summer tote bag for nurses? Oh, come on! Not that you have to justify it, but as a nurse, you have a lot of responsibilities. You're constantly on the move and require a lot of essentials with you at all times. From personal items to medical supplies, your day is filled with countless items you can't do without.

That's where a durable and comfortable tote bag specifically for your nursing materials comes into the picture. Why can't you just throw things into your purse or a backpack you use to go to the gym? It's important to have a separate bag specifically for work.

Not only that, but it's crucial to have a bag that's spacious enough to accommodate all your essentials and durable enough to withstand the daily wear and tear of a nurse's hectic life. Investing in a quality nurse bag can also help you stay organized and prepared for any situation that arises throughout the day.

Moreover, with so many different styles and colors available, you can even add a touch of personality to your work attire. The options are endless, whether it's a bag with multiple compartments for easy access or a waterproof bag to keep your items dry.

The point we're trying to make here is that a nurse's bag is a vital aspect of your work life, making it a necessity rather than a luxury. With the right bag, you can carry everything you need and practically conquer anything that comes your way. So, invest in a durable and comfortable bag to concentrate on providing the best possible care to your patients.

Types of Bags

When choosing the perfect bag to take to work as a nurse, you've got plenty of options. And we're not just talking about color or brand here. Nope. We're talking about styles of bags. And as mentioned, the last thing you have time to do is sift through reviews and recommendations regarding bag options.

To help simplify the process, we've briefly explained and reviewed the different types of bags below. As you'll notice, we're big fans of tote bags, and here's why.

Tote Bags

Tote bags are by far the most popular type of bag for nurses and for good reason. These bags are designed with plenty of room to hold all your essential items, such as a stethoscope, scrubs, shoes, snacks, water bottles, and more. They're also incredibly versatile, coming in various materials, colors, and designs to suit every style and preference.

Not only do tote bags offer ample storage space, but they're also easy to carry. With sturdy straps, you can easily sling your tote bag over your shoulder and take it anywhere. And because they're so lightweight, you won't have to worry about carrying around a heavy load all day.

Doctor Bags

Doctor bags are an alternative to tote bags and are often favored by healthcare professionals with more equipment. These bags are structured and firmer than tote bags, providing additional protection for your belongings. They often come with multiple compartments, making it easy to organize your supplies.

Why don't we suggest doctor bags? It's not that we don't recommend them. It's just that they're often more professional and classic in design. Tote bags, on the other hand, are stylish and versatile. They're better for those who don't prefer such a traditional look.

Duffel Bags

Duffel bags are a good option for nurses who require more storage space. These bags are spacious enough to fit clothing and other bulky items, making them a great choice for nurses who work longer shifts or need to carry lots of equipment. Duffel bags, like doctor bags, can be heavy to carry, and their size may mean they don't fit conveniently into some lockers.

Messenger Bags

Messenger bags are a popular choice for nurses who want easy access to their belongings while keeping their hands free. These bags are worn across one shoulder and situated at the hip, offering easy access to the bag's contents. They're usually smaller than other bags and may not be suitable for nurses who have a lot to carry.

Backpacks

Finally, backpacks are an obvious option for nurses who want to keep their hands free. These bags are usually more durable and spacious than messenger bags, providing ample room to store nursing essentials, including laptops.

They're comfortable to wear and have padded straps to help distribute the weight of the load, making them a great option for nurses who have to walk or cycle to work. Like messenger bags, backpacks are usually smaller than tote bags and may not be appropriate for nurses who need to carry lots of items. Plus, they can be clunky and...not that stylish.

Benefits of Summer Tote Bags for Nurses

Sold on the benefit and value of summer tote bags for nurses? If not, it might pay to consider a few of the benefits of getting a tote bag specifically for your nursing work. Don't worry, though;we've compiled a quick list of benefits for you.

Style

Who says being a nurse means sacrificing style? With summer tote bags, you can have functionality and fashion in one package. Tote bags come in various designs, colors, and patterns to choose from, so you're sure to find one that matches your style. You can even find bags with nursing-related graphics or sayings on them to show off your profession with pride.

Size

Sometimes it feels like nurses need a backpack just to carry around all the equipment they need for a single shift, but with summer tote bags, you can keep things organized and compact. Tote bags offer ample space for essentials like stethoscopes, notepads, pens, and water bottles, while still being sleek and portable.

Plus, with all your essentials in one place, you'll never have to worry about leaving something behind. This is really one of the biggest benefits of a tote bag for nurses, as they're specifically designed with compartments, zippers, and more to ensure you can carry everything you need in one sturdy bag.

Comfort

As a nurse, you're on your feet for hours on end, so it's important to have a bag that won't weigh you down or put unnecessary stress on your body. Summer tote bags are designed with comfort in mind, with lightweight materials that won't add extra strain to your shoulders or back.

Plus, tote bags typically feature wide shoulder straps that distribute the weight evenly, minimizing discomfort and soreness.

Customization

Tote bags are easy to customize (at least with MacAttack Gear summer tote bags), making them a standout accessory for nurses.

Many tote bags can add your name, monogram, or custom design to the bag's exterior, ensuring your tote is uniquely and distinctly yours. You can even choose to customize the color and more. Ultimately, customizing your tote bag is a great way to keep your equipment organized in the best way for you.

Material

Summer tote bags come in various materials, and choosing the one that's right for your needs is important. A tote bag made from durable canvas can withstand daily wear and tear, while a bag made from lightweight nylon is perfect for warmer weather. Many tote bags are also easy to clean and maintain, ensuring they last through the long haul.

How to Choose the Right Summer Nurse Bag

As a nurse, you (hopefully) know by now that tote bags are a great way to keep all your important items organized and accessible while on the job (if we haven't convinced you yet, just keep on scrolling).

With summer right around the corner, it's time to start thinking about investing in a new nurse bag that is perfect for the season. Not sure what to look for? Here are a few tips on choosing the right summer nurse bag.

Size

When it comes to the size of your nurse bag, it's important to consider how much you need to carry around on your shifts. You want to choose a bag large enough to hold all your essentials but not so large that it becomes cumbersome to carry around.

Some popular tote bag sizes include small (10-15 inches), medium (16-19 inches), and large (20-23 inches). However, our personalized tote bag offers a happy medium. It's 20 inches wide and 14 inches tall and boasts 29.5-inch black webbing shoulder straps.

Style

The style of your nurse bag is a matter of personal preference, but there are a few things to consider. For example, you may want a bag with a zipper closure to keep your items secure or an open top for easy access. Additionally, you may want to choose a bag with a fun and colorful design to add some personality to your uniform.

Pockets

Pockets are essential when it comes to staying organized on the job. You'll want to choose a nurse bag with enough pockets to hold your things without making them hard to find. Look for bags with interior and exterior pockets and pockets specifically designed for items like your phone, water bottle, and stethoscope.

Durability

As a nurse, your bag is going to go through a lot of wear and tear, so it's important to choose a bag that is built to last. Look for bags made of sturdy materials like canvas or nylon, and make sure the straps and handles are reinforced for added strength.

Brand

When it comes to summer tote bags for nurses, we highly recommend MacAttack Gear. Yeah, we may be a little biased, but our tote bags are backed by hundreds of happy nurses who've tried them and love them, too.

MacAttack Gear tote bags are made with healthcare professionals in mind and come in various colors and customization options. Plus, they offer features like waterproof material, easy-to-clean surfaces, and tons of pockets for ultimate organization. Basically, they've got everything you need to enjoy a stylish yet functional tote bag for work.

How to Personalize Your Tote Bag

Does a personalized summer tote bag sound like a great idea? Lucky for you, that's our specialty. At MacAttack Gear, our iconic tote bag is fully customizable. Simply choose your bag color, embroidery options, and embroidery color. We'll handle the rest. Here's how it works so you can ensure you get the best tote bag for your nursing needs.

Choose a Color

Start by choosing your favorite color or an attractive shade that matches your personality and sense of style. Remember that your chosen color can significantly impact your tote bag's overall look and feel. At MacAttack Gear, we have four colors to choose from:

• Black
• Red
• Royal Blue
• Purple

Some popular colors among nurses are blue and black because they're versatile. However, if you're feeling more adventurous, try experimenting with brighter colors like red or purple. Consider any uniform color restrictions you might have to adhere to (although hospitals and medical facilities don't typically dictate what the color of your accessories has to be).

Choose a Design

The design you choose for your tote bag is another great way to add a personal touch. Most nursing accessories companies allow you to choose a simple yet stylish design, such as polka dots, stripes, or zig-zags. However, with MacAttack gear, you get to choose from more stylish upgraded options that include:

• Caduceus
• Split Caduceus
• Stethoscope
• EKG
• Baby Feet
• Lungs
• "Nurse Life" Quote
• Simple Text

This means you can choose a design that reflects your interests or your specific area of nursing. For instance, if you work in the NICU, you can add the baby feet embroidery to reflect the hard work you do for babies and their mamas. Alternatively, opt for the stethoscope or caduceus if you want to keep it professional.

Don't forget to select the color of your design. Depending on your design and the chosen color of your tote bag, you can customize the color of the embroidered design. Choose from colors such as the following:

• White
• Turquoise
• Red
• Grey
• Cerulean
• Black
• Raspberry
• Azalea
• Lime
• Light Pink
• Ultra Blue
• Navy

The options are endless!

Customize Your Name &Text

After choosing your design, we'll ask you to personalize your name or the corresponding text that you want to include below the design. You are allowed to write text for up to two lines. We also allow you to choose the font for each line, meaning you can get pretty creative with the personalization here.

Select a block or script text and preview the text on the tote bag before heading down to the next step. Our top tip here? Definitely preview the text before you place your order. Ensure you like the way that it looks. While it might look slightly better in person, the preview will give you a good idea of what to expect.

As is the case with the design, you can customize the color of your text.

How to Choose the Right Color Tote Bag

Having trouble deciding which color tote bag might look best with your other nursing clothing or gear? The right color tote bag can make a world of difference, and that's why we're here to help you make the right choice.

Black Tote Bag: The Classic Choice

Black tote bags are a classic choice that never goes out of trend. Black goes with almost every outfit, making it the perfect choice for nurses with limited wardrobes during their shifts. Furthermore, black tote bags are low-maintenance and do not show stains easily, making them a practical and functional choice.

Red Tote Bag: The Energizing Choice

Red is a vibrant and attention-grabbing color that is perfect for nurses who want to stand out. Red is a bold statement color that can instill confidence, motivation, and passion in the wearer.

Royal Blue Tote Bag: The Calming Choice

Royal blue is a soothing color that can encourage relaxation and calmness. It's perfect for nurses who want a bag to help them destress after their busy shifts. Furthermore, royal blue is a versatile color that looks good with almost any outfit, making it a practical choice.

Purple Tote Bag: The Creative Choice

Purple is a creative and imaginative color perfect for nurses who want to express individuality. It's a unique and unexpected color choice that can help nurses stand out. Furthermore, purple is associated with creativity and inspiration, making it an ideal choice for nurses who work in creative fields.

Design Tips for Personalizing Your Tote Bag

Before you personalize and purchase your bag, there are a few design tips to remember.

First, consider using different colors to create contrast in your design. Using contrasting colors can help make your design stand out and add a pop of color to your bag.

However, when choosing the right contrasting colors for embroidery, remember that not all color combinations work well together. For example, black and navy may seem similar, but when paired together, they can clash. Instead, try using complementary colors like blue and orange or green and red.

Another important factor is choosing the right font for your embroidery. Not all fonts work well with every text, so be mindful of your chosen font. For example, script fonts may be difficult to read when embroidered in small text. The goal is to ensure the text is stylish yet readable. Remember that as you personalize and preview the text before purchasing your custom tote bag.

What to Carry in a Nurse Tote Bag

Once you've got your hands on a customizable and stylish tote bag from MacAttack Gear, it's time to start filling it up with all your work essentials. From stethoscopes to chargers and even your lunch, there's no need to worry about leaving anything behind with our helpful breakdown of what to carry in your nurse tote bag.

Stethoscope

Your stethoscope is an essential tool for any nurse, so it's important to ensure you always have it on hand. Consider investing in a durable model that can withstand wear and tear, and make it a habit to always check that it's in your tote bag before leaving for work.

Chargers

Nowadays, a charger is just as important as any other tool in a nurse's arsenal. Whether it's for your phone or tablet, make sure to keep a charger with you at all times. A portable charger is a great option for those long shifts where you don't get a chance to recharge your electronics.

Nursing Drug Handbook

If you're a beginner nurse, one of the most important items you should have in your personalized tote bag is the Nursing Drug Handbook. This handbook provides you with essential information about various drugs and can also help you identify potential side effects and drug interactions. With our summer tote bag, you can easily slip your drug handbook inside and carry it with you.

PPE

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is a staple in the healthcare industry, and it's more important than ever to carry your protection just in case. Keep a few extra masks, gloves, and gowns in your tote bag, just in case. It's always better to be over-prepared than to be caught off guard.

Hand Sanitizer

One of the easiest ways to prevent the spread of germs is by regularly sanitizing your hands. Keep a bottle of hand sanitizer in your tote bag to ensure you're always prepared to keep yourself and your patients safe from harmful bacteria.

Jacket

Hospitals and clinics can sometimes be chilly, so keeping a jacket on hand is always a good idea. Opt for a lightweight jacket that won't take up too much space in your tote bag. If you're not a fan of jackets, check out our stylish pullovers for nurses, doctors, and other healthcare professionals.

Pens

As a nurse, you're constantly jotting down notes, filling out charts, and signing off on paperwork. Keep a few extra pens in your tote bag, just in case one runs out of ink or gets lost. If you can, look for a tote bag with a separate compartment for pens (ours has one on the outside!). At the very least, store your pens in a small pocket to ensure the ink doesn't accidentally leak onto anything else.

Badge

Your work badge serves as a form of identification and gives you access to important areas of the hospital or clinic. Make sure to always keep it with you in your tote bag. And while we're on the subject, it's the perfect time to reiterate that this is one of the biggest benefits of having a separate tote bag just for your nursing work.

If you carry the same tote bag to work every day and don't mix your personal belongings with your nurse accessories, you'll always remember to keep your work badge, and you won't accidentally leave it in another bag.

Keys

Like your badge, your keys are essential for securing secure areas. Keep a spare set in your nurse tote bag so you'll never be locked out of important areas. The same point mentioned above applies here. If you drive to and from work each morning and evening, store your keys in the same compartment in your nurse bag so they never get lost.

Lunch

Working long shifts can be exhausting, so keeping your energy up with a nutritious lunch is important. Pack a lunchbox or insulated bag in your tote bag to keep your meal fresh and easily accessible. Don't bring your lunch to work? Take advantage of some extra pocket space and store some snacks;you never know when you might need a little sugar or energy.

Tablet

Finally, a tablet can be a helpful tool for accessing medical information, communicating with colleagues, and even keeping up with your personal schedule. While this might not be totally necessary, as some medical facilities offer tablets and devices to their staff, if you do bring one, keep it safe and protected in your tote bag. You'll always have it on hand when you need it most.

Why MacAttack Gear

MacAttack Gear is a brand that has been providing services and products to medical professionals for more than 15 years. With services that include embroidery, laser engraving, and printing, we have built a reputation in the industry for producing unrivaled high-quality, personalized products.

Our owner, KathyMac, RN, has been an ER nurse for 22 years and has used her experience in the healthcare industry to design our personalized gear with the healthcare professional in mind. This means that every item we produce is durable, practical, and designed to meet the unique demands of healthcare professionals.

With the success of our eCommerce business, we have extended our services beyond the Central Massachusetts area, allowing hospitals and customers nationwide to access our personalized gear. Our group orders have become our specialty, and we pride ourselves on meeting our customers' unique needs, large or small.

But that's not all that makes us stand out from the crowd. Here are a few reasons to choose MacAttack Gear for your summer tote bag.

Nurse-Owned

As a nurse-owned business, we understand the demands and requirements of healthcare professionals. We know what it takes to get through a long shift and the importance of having gear that can withstand the rigors of the healthcare industry. Our personalized gear is designed with healthcare workers in mind, ensuring that you can rely on it to perform day in and day out.

Experience

With more than 15 years of experience in personalized gear production, we have developed a reputation in the industry for delivering high-quality products designed to last. Our expertise allows us to work quickly and efficiently, ensuring you get your gear as soon as possible.

Fast Shipping

We know that when you need personalized gear, you need it fast. That's why we offer fast shipping on all of our products, so you can get the gear you need when you need it. No matter where you are in the country, you can rely on our shipping network to get your order to you promptly and efficiently. Plus, we often offer free shipping on large orders.

MacAttack Summer Clothing &Accessories

After you've found the perfect summer tote bag for nurses, it's time to explore our MacAttack clothing and accessories. We offer various ways to personalize nursing bags and have a range of tumblers, mugs, jackets, and other clothing items that are perfect to complete your summer look.

Why purchase the items together? By buying a tote bag alongside other accessories, you can mix and match styles to achieve your desired look and stay comfortable during long shifts.

For instance, pairing a colorful tote bag with a matching tumbler is an excellent way to express your unique style while staying hydrated. Our collection also includes adjustable and comfortable jackets, especially for those early morning and late night shifts.

In addition, we sometimes offer discounts on pack bundles of tote bags with other items. With our combo packs, you can grab the perfect tote bag alongside a stylish jacket at an unbeatable price. While you might not need to wear your Charles River or Eddie Bauer jacket during the summer, it'll come in handy when fall rolls around, and the weather starts to drop.

The bottom line? We've got you covered from head to toe without breaking the bank. Explore our collection today, and get ready to rock your summer style all season. Here are a few of the best items to pair with a nurse bag.

Tumblers

A tumbler is a must-have item for any nurse out on a hot summer day. Tumblers come in handy when you need to keep your drink cold for longer and let's face it, nurses need to stay hydrated while on the job.

At MacAttack Gear, we offer a wide range of tumblers, including skinny tumblers that are perfect for slipping into your tote bag along with all your other essential items. Our cute tumblers are also laser engraved and come in various colors and designs, so you can personalize them to match your chosen tote bag. Examples of engravings include the following:

• "I'll be over here saving lives"
• "Nurse life"
• "Registered Nurse"
• "ER Nurse"
• "Gangsta nurse"

Or, you can opt to personalize your tumbler with your name. Ultimately, with our laser engraving technology, the options are endless. Choose from various designs that include quotes, symbols, and patterns. Plus, you can mix and match colors to make it the perfect personalized accessory for your summer wardrobe.

Mugs

As nurses and medical professionals, we know that life can get pretty busy, and sometimes we need a little pick-me-up to keep us going. That's why we've got you covered with our personalized coffee mugs! Not only are they cute and stylish, but you can also have them personalized with your name or favorite quote to make them truly unique.

Our mugs are made of high-quality material to keep your coffee warm, ensuring you can always have your favorite beverage by your side, no matter how busy your day gets. Plus, with our wide selection of colors and designs, you will surely find the perfect mug to suit your style. And we mean it.

Our customization options allow you to personalize the name on the mug, sure. However, you can also personalize your scrub style, skin color, hairstyle, and more to ensure the figure on the mug represents who you are.

Whether you're heading to work, running errands, or simply relaxing at home, our mugs are the perfect accessory for any occasion. So why settle for a boring, generic mug when you can have a personalized one that reflects your personality? With our mugs, you'll not only look great while sipping your coffee, but you'll also feel great knowing that you have a one-of-a-kind accessory.

Light Jackets

While summers are typically warm, the weather can be quite unpredictable in most parts of the country. That's why we offer a wide range of light jackets for both women and men, so you can stay comfortable no matter what the weather throws your way.

We carry top-brand jackets from popular brands such as The North Face, Eddie Bauer, and more. Cozy choices such as fleece, microfleece, sport wick, knit, and other materials guarantee ultimate comfort.

The best part is that you can customize these jackets to make them uniquely yours! Add your name, initials, or any of our custom designs to show off your profession (like the stethoscope or other designs mentioned above), and we'll take care of the rest. We understand that comfort and style go hand in hand, and our expertly crafted jackets offer both.

Plus, the perfect light jacket can be a great accessory to any outfit. Whether running errands on a chilly day or taking a quick walk, you'll look and feel amazing in one of our light jackets — especially if you wear it while carrying your personalized tote bag to match. Speaking of pairing it with a tote bag...

Combo Packs

We also offer combo packs for those interested in purchasing a jacket and tote bag at the same time. The benefit of ordering a combo pack is that you only have to customize your design once. Select your embroidery design, font, colors, and more, and we'll apply it to your tote bag and jacket.

How does it work?

• Step 1: Choose Your Jacket Color
• Step 2: Choose Your Jacket Size
• Step 3: Choose Your Embroidered Design
• Step 4: Choose Your Design Color
• Step 5: Customize Your Name
• Step 6: Choose Your Name Color
• Step 7: Choose Your Certification

There is an additional box for instructions or comments. However, if you have questions about designing your jacket and tote bag combo or would like further clarification, don't hesitate to contact us with questions!

Shop Now

Choosing the right tote bag is crucial for nurses who want to stay organized and stylish. From basic bags to bags with specific compartments for medical gear, there are various choices to fit every nurse's needs. Consider the material, size, and style before making your purchase.

With our complete guide, you're sure to find the perfect summer tote bag that suits your needs and preferences. Ready to customize yours? Browse through our summer tote bags for nurses by visiting our tote bag page. If you want to see other happy customers who've received their personalized products, please check out our customer testimonials (with photos).