Bellroy Tokyo Totepack In Bronze [2025 Review] Complete Pros & Cons

Cazzy Magennis
Written By:
Cazzy Magennis
Last Updated:
July 2, 2025
In this article I'm reviewing the beautiful Bellroy Tokoto Totepack! Here's a little hint of what's to come...I LOVE IT!...Let's get into it.....
bellroy-tokyo-totepack-review

If you’re after a tote that turns into a backpack—and actually looks good doing it—this one’s for you.

The Bellroy Tokyo Totepack is clean, compact, and purpose-built for modern travel and everyday carry.

We got hands-on with the Bronze colorway, but every version shares the same standout design.

You’ll also find it in Raven, Everglade, and Deep Plum.

Personally, I have to say, the Bronze looks stunning in person.

I've purposely not put ANY filters on my photographs of this bag, so you can see what it truly looks like, in different lighting! 

So, whether you’re boarding a flight, heading to a client meeting, or just working from your favourite café, this tote handles it all.

And yes—it really does switch from hand-carry to backpack without fuss.

Ohhh I love ittt!

But let's get to it!

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Why This Bag Stands Out

Not all hybrid bags are created equal.

Some feel like a backpack trying to be a tote.

Or worse—neither.

But the Tokyo Totepack just works - really works.

From the moment you pick it up, it’s obvious this was designed with intention.

No bulky straps. No awkward weight distribution. No weird folds or gimmicky add-ons.

Just clean lines, great material, and smart touches that make daily carry easier.

What really stood out to us:

  • Dual carry design that doesn’t compromise on comfort
  • Structured silhouette that never collapses or sags
  • Quick-access front pocket for the bits you need fast
  • Minimal branding and a very polished aesthetic

It’s exactly the kind of bag you want to pull out at security, then throw over your shoulder five minutes later.

Need more urban-friendly picks? Check out our Best Urban Backpacks guide for similar styles.

Who Are Bellroy?

Bellroy’s been on our radar for years—and for good reason.

Orlaigh over at GearByWomen has been reviewing their stuff for a few years now, and she is always talking about how great quality ALL their bags are...

Born in Australia, the brand started with simple wallets and a mission: make everyday carry smarter.

Now, they offer everything from travel tech organisers to full-sized backpacks.

But one thing stays the same—their design philosophy.

It’s all about functional minimalism. Bellroy bags strip out the excess and give you just what you need.

And more importantly, they do it sustainably.

Why we’re big fans of the Bellroy brand:

  • All bags use recycled woven fabrics and eco-tanned leather
  • They’re a certified B Corporation, committed to ethical practices
  • They focus on products that last, not trends that fade
  • The vibe is polished and practical—never flashy or fussy

This isn’t throwaway fashion. It’s the kind of gear you invest in once and use everywhere.

And I LOVE that ethos.

Plus they have one of the best logos out there...

Just sayinn.

Design & Build Quality

Let’s talk design. Because Bellroy didn’t just slap backpack straps onto a tote and call it a day.

The Tokyo Totepack is built with real attention to detail. Every seam, zip, and strap feels like it belongs.

On the outside, you get:

  • A durable, water-resistant woven body with a soft matte finish
  • Two strong tote handles
  • Hidden backpack straps that slide in and out smoothly - I love how subtle and easy these are
  • Vertical zip front pocketS for things you need on the go
  • A flat, reinforced base that keeps the bag upright

Inside the bag, things get even better:

  • A padded laptop sleeve that fits devices up to 15 inches
  • A spacious main compartment for books, lunch, cables, and a jumper
  • Stretch mesh pockets to keep bottles or tech gear standing (I find it holds my tripod well)
  • A small zippered valuables pocket for keys, passports, or chargers

Everything has its place, but it never feels over-engineered.

The whole layout is simple and actually usable—unlike bags that promise organisation but forget about access.

The fabric also resists dirt and scuffs surprisingly well. Even after a week of casual use, the Bronze version still looked fresh.

And it’s worth saying—the zippers on this bag are smooth. No sticking - This is a seriouly good feature, because sticky zips are a pet hate of mine.

Everyday Usability

Hybrid bags often fall short when it comes to real-life carry.

The handles are too stiff. The backpack straps feel like an afterthought. And switching between modes is more annoying than useful.

Not here.

The Tokyo Totepack is one of the few bags we’ve tried where both carry styles feel genuinely good.

As a tote, it looks clean and works well for short strolls or casual setups.

As a backpack, it’s comfortable enough for longer days—commutes, layovers, city walks. The padded straps sit flat and don’t dig in.

Other small details that make a big difference:

  • The front zip pocket is wide and easy to access while standing

  • The top opens just enough to grab stuff without flopping open completely

  • The inner compartments stay upright, so nothing sloshes or shifts as you move

  • The bag stands up on its own—no sagging, tipping, or searching for a wall

It fits under airplane seats with room to spare. It’s never bulky, never annoying.

I would personally use this bag as a day-to-day city break bag, or when I'm going to work in a coffee shop etc.

When travelling, I could easily use this as a day pack. I can fit my tripod, my phone, a change of clothes, a swimming costume, my flipflops, a book, purse, and more in there.

So it's personally a great bag for me in addition to carry-on luggage. This wouldn't be enough room for me, personally to pack lots of clothes for a few days away.

But it's the perfect travel companion.

And it's look damn good! 

Colour Options & Size Breakdown

The Bellroy Tokyo Totepack is available in four timeless colours. Each one offers the exact same design and build—only the finish changes.

Here’s a quick look at your options:

  • Raven: A go-to classic. Sleek, black, and blends into any setting.
  • Everglade: Deep green that feels earthy and modern.
  • Bronze: Warm tone with standout style, but still refined.
  • Deep Plum: Rich and bold, with just enough pop to feel unique.

No matter the colour, everything else stays the same.

The specs are:

  • 18L capacity
  • 38cm x 30cm x 12cm dimensions
  • Fits laptops up to 15 inches
  • Weighs just under 1kg

It’s compact—but surprisingly roomy.

This isn’t a backpack built for multi-day hikes or month-long trips. But it truly works for day trips, daily commutes, and city exploring.

It’s also small enough to qualify as a personal item on most airlines, which makes it perfect as a second bag when flying.

Bellroy now do cabin baggage too, so I'm thinking, one of each? ;)

You would be SET for traevel with that duo.

Pros & Cons

Here’s how the Bellroy Tokyo Totepack stacks up after testing:

Pros:

  • Convertible design with smooth switch between tote and backpack
  • 18L capacity is perfect for daily use
  • Padded laptop sleeve and smart interior layout
  • Premium materials, including recycled fabrics and leather
  • Water-resistant finish that handles drizzle with ease
  • Minimal, polished style that works in every setting
  • Structured base that helps it stand upright

Cons:

  • Limited capacity for those who like to overpack
  • Not waterproof, so a rain cover might be needed in storms
  • Higher price point than generic alternatives (but you get what you pay for)

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Bellroy Tokyo Totepack?

If you're looking for a stylish, smartly designed bag that transitions easily between travel and daily life, the Bellroy Tokyo Totepack is a standout.

It’s not trying to be everything for everyone. It doesn’t overpromise.

Instead, it quietly excels at being the perfect compact hybrid—for remote workers, digital nomads, city explorers, and light travelers alike.

This is a bag you’ll want to carry every day.

And it won’t let you down when you do.

The sleek silhouette fits seamlessly into both smart and casual settings.

And the padded straps, thoughtful compartments, and reinforced shape all make this bag feel far more premium than many others in its class.

Is it cheap? No.

But if you value long-lasting quality, eco-conscious materials, and gear that’s actually enjoyable to use, it’s a very smart investment.

We’d recommend this to:

  • Commuters who need laptop protection in a slim profile
  • Travelers looking for a lightweight personal item
  • Minimalists who appreciate form and function
  • Anyone who wants one bag that does a bit of everything

Still unsure? Take another look:

Check out Orlaigh's video!

Check prices here

Other Reviews You Might Like

If you have questions or want help choosing between bags, drop us a comment. 

Love,

Cazzy

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Some images courtesy of Deposit Photos.
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