If your faithful old purse is looking a little tired, now is the time for an upgrade as new summer styles flood stores. If your budget is sparse and you’re not into designer knockoffs, there are still plenty of bags that won’t break the bank. Whether you want a super-structured satchel, casual hobo, or something in between, here are 50 summer handbags for $50 and under. (Note: Prices and availability are subject to change.)
JESSICA MCCLINTOCK SONIA
Price: $35 | Buy it at Zappos Available in basic black or summery bone ivory, this Jessica McClintock has a feminine perforated exterior and trendy dual ring handles with a detachable chain strap. A magnetic snap closure will keep your belongings from spilling out.
MELIE BIANCO FRANCES TOTE
Price: $40 | Buy it at Nordstrom Rack Neutral enough to go everywhere but stylish enough to stand out, this vegan leather tote has an adjustable shoulder strap and comes in three colors: ivory, saddle brown, and black.
TOMMY HILFIGER POLLY II TOTE
Price: $35 | Buy it at 6pm With its bold, nautical-inspired stripes, this tote bag is just begging for a day on the boardwalk or a trip to the beach. The faux leather exterior has logo-embossed hardware detailing and a slip pocket; a zipper keeps items from slipping out of the roomy interior.
A NEW DAY EVERYDAY SATCHEL
Price: $35 | Buy it at Target Whether you go with basic tan, fresh mint or feminine blush, this pebbled faux leather bag is sweet and sophisticated. It includes a removable shoulder strap and plenty of pockets to keep you organized.
BUENO COLLECTION STUD SIDE HOBO
Price: $21 | Buy it at Steinmart Available in three colors, this faux leather hobo has a bit more polish thanks to its studded exterior and shoulder strap. Other details include gold hardware and several exterior and interior pockets.
Trending on Cheapism
PENDLETON BIG BAGGU
Price: $24.50 | Buy it at Zappos You can never have too many nylon totes to schlep around groceries, beach gear, or anything else you need for warm-weather fun. This one has sturdy double straps and packs up into a convenient zippered pouch perfect for tossing in your luggage.
SAKROOTS CAMDEN
Price: $42 | Buy it at ZapposThis casual, go-anywhere crossbody comes in six summery patterns and is made of durable canvas with polyurethane trim. With plenty of secure zip pockets, it’s especially ideal for those summer travels.
ALDO ELROMINI
Price: $35 | Buy it at 6pmAvailable in sophisticated champagne, light pink, or other understated neutrals, this Aldo satchel has luxe chain metal hardware and a convenient zippered front pouch. A removable strap makes it practical and versatile, too.
Sign up for our newsletter
SUN ‘N’ SAND BEACH BOUND BEACH CANVAS TOTE
Price: $36 | Buy it at eBags With its generous size and sturdy double handles, this canvas tote is more than ready to haul your swimsuit, sunscreen, towels, and other pool or beach essentials. Choose from three vibrant colors: orange, lime or turquoise.
ALDO VERMILION
Price: $40 | Buy it at Zappos This synthetic color-blocked tote is polished enough for the office but casual enough to go elsewhere, whether that’s out to brunch or on everyday errands. It includes four convenient interior slip pockets, an interior zip pocket and an exterior zip pocket to keep you organized.
TIME AND TRU LEIGH REVERSIBLE TOTE
Price: $14 | Buy it at Walmart It’s hard to beat the price of this generously sized PVC tote, especially since it’s reversible, making it almost like having two bags in one. It includes a matching removable pouch for wrangling small items.
VERA BRADLEY LIGHTEN UP DRAWSTRING MINI CROSSBODY
Price: $28 | Buy it at ZapposPerfect for those who want something fresh and fun, this little crossbody features Vera Bradley’s signature bold colors and patterns. It’s water-resistant, offers RFID protection, and has just enough room for the essentials when you don’t want to be weighed down.
I.N.C. MARTHAA STAR STRAW TOTE
Price: $20 | Buy it at Macy’sWith its woven straw exterior in a bright star pattern, this bag is perfect to sling over your shoulder for any coastal adventure. It has a magnetic snap closure and faux leather handles, and it’s roomy enough for a 15-inch laptop.
CHINESE LAUNDRY OLETA TRIPLE COMPARTMENT HOBO
Price: $25 | Buy it at 6pmEven if you don’t plan on hanging out in the East Village, you can look like it with this easy boho-style hobo. The faux-leather exterior features an eye-catching tassel, stitching, and metal studs, and the three-compartment interior makes it easy to stay organized.
CALL IT SPRING DARORIAN
Price: $35 | Buy it at Call It Spring This versatile special-occasion bag comes in light pink microsuede. It has plenty of room for your phone, makeup, wallet, and other small essentials. Carry it as a clutch or use the detachable chain handle for extra ease.
ECHO DESIGN FLORAL EMBROIDERY HANDBAG
Price: $25 | Buy it at 6pm Perfect with a feminine sundress or your favorite faded jeans, this embroidered cotton bag has a summery floral motif, rope shoulder straps, and a fully lined interior.
KAVU MARKET BAG
Price: $45 | Buy it at Zappos With its festive prints and unique rope shoulder straps, this expandable polyester bag offers a dash of style at the farmers market or anywhere else you need a sturdy sack to stuff purchases or other belongings.
GUESS BRITTA TOTE
Price: $40 | Buy it at 6pmWhether you choose cheerful yellow or blue, this faux leather shoulder bag is a breath of fresh air for the summer. It has a top-zip closure, fully lined interior, and protective feet on the base.
BUENO OSTRICH TOTE
Price: $25 | Buy it at eBags This practical textured vinyl tote has a three-compartment interior with plenty of zip and slip pockets, a magnetic closure and a fun tassel detail. Choose from orange, light blue, or tan.
CESCA LARGE TOTE
Price: $40 | Buy it at Target A scalloped, tri-color removable handle and pleated exterior elevate the look of this structured faux leather tote. It also has double drop handles and a zippered top to keep your belongings secure.
A NEW DAY FLORAL TASSEL POUCH
Price: $15 | Buy it at TargetAvailable in neutral tan, bold stripes, or a tropical print, this clutch is equally suited for special occasions and casual days. It includes a sophisticated tassel, gold-tone hardware, and interior compartments perfect for your phone, makeup, cash, and other small items.
THE SAK AMBERLY HOBO
Price: $30 | Buy it at 6pmWith its beachy crochet-look exterior, this bag is the picture of summer style. Made of durable polypropylene, it has a zipper closure, woven shoulder strap, and a convenient exterior zip pocket.
ROSETTI DEMI MINI CROSSBODY
Price: $25.20 | Buy it at JCPenneyWhether you want a fun floral pattern or color-blocked neutrals, this faux leather Rosetti crossbody has you covered. With its four pockets, there’s a place for everything despite its compact size.
URBAN EXPRESSIONS MATILDA CHAIN TOTE
Price: $40 | Buy it at Nordstrom RackWith its chain detailing, this textured faux leather bag is understated but modern. It has a snap-button closure and flocked interior lining, and comes in three soft, summery colors.
VIOLET RAY LOGAN WHIPSTITCH TRIPLE ENTRY DOME SATCHEL
Price: $40 | Buy it at Steinmart In plush faux suede, this go-anywhere satchel has whipstiched details, polished hardware, and a removable strap. Three zippered main compartments with more pockets inside make it an organizational whiz.
SONOMA GOODS FOR LIFE RILEY BACKPACK
Price: $30 | Buy it at Kohl’s Why not go hands-free this summer? This cute cotton fashion backpack has a neutral stripe, gold-tone hardware and faux leather trim. There are plenty of zip pockets, and a top loop makes it easy to hang on a hook or doorknob.
SUN ‘N’ SAND VALENTI HOBO
Price: $43 | Buy it at eBags Its rope strap, straw crochet exterior and vibrant stripes make this hobo the perfect accessory to brighten up any outfit. The top has a zipper closure, and there’s a zippered pocket and slip pocket inside.
GUESS HUNTLEY SMALL CALI SATCHEL
Price: $40 | Buy it at 6pm This luxe-looking floral bag is a warm-weather head-turner that will brighten up any look. Made of faux leather, it has a magnetic closure, removable strap, polished hardware and lined interior with several pockets, including two convenient zippered pockets along the top.
STUDIO 33 SORRY NOT SORRY SATCHEL
Price: $43 | Buy it at Nordstrom RackAn integrated dual ring handle and embroidered metallic palm trees give this denim bag ample warm-weather style. It also has a removable crossbody strap if you’d rather keep your hands free.
MAX STUDIO DRAWSTRING TOTE
Price: $15 | Buy it at TJMaxx Made of a textured weave in a summery stripe, this roomy tote is easy to cinch shut with a drawstring. There’s also a magnetic closure for extra security, an exterior zipper pocket, and a bold black and white interior lining.
KAVU ROPE BAG
Price: $49.95 | Buy it at Amazon An updated twist on a backpack, the cotton Kavu comes in a dizzying number of colors and patterns. It has an adjustable rope strap that is worn across the chest, and plenty of pockets to keep your things secure during hiking, sightseeing, and other adventures.
NICOLE BY NICOLE MILLER PENELOPE SATCHEL
Price: $45 | Buy it at JCPenney A cheerful, bold stripe makes this faux leather Nicole Miller a bag that will help you stand out from the crowd (though it’s also available in basic black if you’d rather blend in). Features include gold-tone hardware and a removable crossbody strap.
T-SHIRT & JEANS FOR THE RECORD TOTE
Price: $21.11 | Buy it on AmazonGeometric metal handles give this otherwise basic bag a more sophisticated feel. Other features include a crossbody strap, lined interior, and magnetic snap closure. Choose from sleek black or silver.
MAGID TWO TONE STRAW CHAIN SATCHEL
Price: $21 | Buy it at Steinmart Straw bags are synonymous with warm-weather casual, but this bag takes the look upscale with a trendy stripe and silver chain detailing on the straps. There is a middle zippered compartment and plenty of other interior pockets.
B.O.C. FANNING WHIP BOTTOM BAND CROSSBODY
Price: $35 | Buy it at 6pm Whether you go for the summery mint or more neutral colors, this B.O.C. crossbody bag can be your everyday workhorse. It features a pebbled faux leather exterior, zippered closure, practical flat bottom, and whipstitched detailing.
APT. 9 BRADY PLEATED SHOPPER
Price: $30 | Buy it at Kohl’s Available in solid black or fresh floral, this versatile faux leather shoulder bag has a pleated silhouette, braided straps, and silver hardware that only make it look expensive. Inside, several zipper and slip pockets make it easy to find whatever you need.
KATE + ALEX CUFFARO STRIPE HOBO
Price: $40 | Buy it at DSW Bold vertical stripes and faux leather trim make this hobo ready for its close-up. Braided tassels add interest, while a zippered closure and interior pockets give it enough practicality for daily use.
TRAVELON ANTI-THEFT BOHO SLIM
Price: $44 | Buy it at eBags Feel more secure during your upcoming vacations with this anti-theft crossbody, which includes a locking main compartment, RFID protection to keep your data safe, and slash-resistant straps. It’s big enough for a tablet and even has a key clip with a light.
JESSICA MCCLINTOCK ELLA SPARKLE BOX CLUTCH
Price: $28 | Buy it at 6pmThis dazzling clutch is the perfect way to add interest to a little black dress. Covered in colorful faux gems, it has a boxy silhouette, elegant blue lined interior, push-lock closure, and detachable chain strap.
SONOMA GOODS FOR LIFE MACRAME TOTE
Price: $25 | Buy it at Kohl’sThis sturdy cotton tote features macramé embellishment that makes it the perfect go-anywhere summer bag. Other features include faux leather handles, antiqued gold hardware, and a snap closure.
A NEW DAY LASER CUT BUCKET TOTE
Price: $40 | Buy it at Target This sturdy faux leather tote with laser-cut details comes in three classic colors. It also includes a matching zipper pouch that can be carried on its own or tossed in the bag for extra organization.
NANETTE LAPORE ALISSA SHOULDER BAG
Price: $30 | Buy it at Steinmart Pebbled faux leather, black studs, and a feminine bow make this shoulder bag a winner. Zippered compartments and a magnetic closure keep it ideal for daily use.
UNDER ONE SKY 8 EMBROIDERED BAG IN BAG
Price: $38 | Buy it at Walmart Get two bags for less than most single handbags cost with this combo. It comes with an attractive, fully lined shoulder tote featuring embroidery, tassels and faux leather trim. A smaller matching crossbody bag has several pockets inside and out.
BUENO PEBBLE WASHED TOTE BAG
Price: $40 | Buy it at Target This pebbled faux-leather tote is made to look subtly worn and faded, like you’ve had it for years. Features include gold hardware, long zipper pulls, and plenty of pockets.
VIOLET RAY LOGAN PERFORATED MEDALLION SATCHEL
Price: $40 | Buy it at SteinmartAn intricate medallion design makes this faux-leather dome satchel quite the stunner. It has rolled handles and a detachable crossbody strap, and several zippered and slip pockets to keep everything well organized.
NICOLE LEE KYLE SHOULDER BAG
Price: $36 | Buy it at eBags With its colorful belt-like accents, this compact foldover shoulder bag is offbeat in the best way. A chain-link handle, magnetic closure, and several pockets make it as functional as it is cute.
LANDS’ END ZIP TOP CANVAS TOTE
Price: $42 | Buy it at Lands’ End A zippered top and several bold colors help update the famous Lands’ End canvas tote, tested to hold up to 500 pounds before the handles fail. It has a water-resistant base and comes in four sizes. You can even snag it with extra-long handles.
TASIA TASSELED LEOPARD FOLDOVER CLUTCH
Price: $38 | Buy it at Dillard’s Show off your wild side with this leopard-print, faux-leather, fold-over clutch. Large enough for all your essentials, it comes with a removable strap and has a top zipper as well as a slip pocket inside.
SAKROOTS ROMA STRAW MINI CROSSBODY
Price: $48 | Buy it at Dillard’s This summery crossbody combines a straw bottom with a bold navy floral pattern, making it especially at home by the water. Other features include a braided strap and multiple interior pockets.
LIZ CLAIBORNE CARMEN SATCHEL
Price: $27.50 | Buy it at JCPenney Available in black and white, solid black, or colorful stripes, this modern, structured faux leather satchel has thick rolled handles, a removable strap, and understated gold-tone hardware.
