The lands end tote (according to the description) has a key fob and inner pockets (not sure how useful they are, no pics of them), but i have heard that the quality of the LL bean is better......i am looking to use it for travel and general bumming(w/ zip top)- any opinions?
LL bean
ToteŽ Bag has been tested in our lab to hold up to 400 pounds. Still made by us here in Maine from practically indestructible 24 oz. cotton canvas. With its reinforced flat canvas bottom, our Boat and Tote is so rugged it stands up on its own for easy packing and unpacking. Overlapped seams double-stitched with nylon won't rot or break.
Lands end
"Stand-up" design is easier to get into
Medium, Large and Extra-large sizes have four pockets inside to help you organize
Stronger, more abrasion-resistant canvas
Zip-close top adds security
Reinforced side seams and straps
Handy inside key fob
(clearly this is the most important debate of our time)
I have tote bags from both companies. LL Bean was the company to first make the tote. The only big difference to me is that Lands End has more pockets inside, not many more. They are both feel and look the same. I usually decide each summer based on their color selections. I also think that LL Bean's handles are a little longer than Lands End. Feel free to PM if you have any more questions.
I have no experience with Lands End, but you really can't go wrong with LL Bean. I bought one of their large totes 3 yrs ago and use it every week for groceries (It holds the entire load of food) and it shows absolutely no signs of wear. I also used it to carry my Kitchen Aid mixer when I moved. They're sturdy as hell.
I have a very large Landsend tote like the one you posted but in the nylon (for the pool). It's really great! It has 3 outside pockets and some small pockets on the inside. Not sure if the nylon one is designed the same way as the canvas, but they're the same style. LOVE!