Trader Joe’s $2.99 mini canvas tote bags are back — here’s what you need to know
This cult-favorite Trader Joe's item gives a bit of fun and affordable retail therapy in today's economy.
If you missed out on the viral sensation in 2024, here’s your second chance. Trader Joe’s mini canvas tote bags have returned to stores this week for just $2.99, and they’re already flying off the shelves.
I arrived at my neighborhood Trader Joe’s in Palm Springs, California, on Tuesday, April 8, five minutes after it opened at 8 AM. And let me tell you… the tote bag buzz was real. Several shoppers were already walking out with armfuls of the coveted mini totes.
Why these $2.99 totes are selling for $30+ online
Last year, Trader Joe’s mini canvas tote bags became a social media phenomenon. After selling out quickly, some resellers listed them for hundreds of dollars online. It seems like it'll be no different this year — despite not even being sold out yet, I’ve spotted them on eBay and Poshmark for $30 and up.
“When it comes to our reusable bags, our customers have made themselves abundantly clear: the smaller the tote, the bigger the sensation,” Trader Joe’s states on its website. The company seems as surprised as anyone by the massive popularity of these bags.
2025 tote colors: Pastel blue, green, pink, and lavender
Last year’s collection featured navy, yellow, red, and green options:
2025’s lineup offers a dreamy pastel palette. Trader Joe's has named the colors baby blue, mint green, delicate pink, and, my favorite — lovely lavender. I couldn’t resist bringing one home.
As I browsed the colorful display, a staff member stood nearby to enforce a five-bag limit per household. “We’re trying to make sure everyone gets a fair chance to buy their favorite colors,” the employee explained as I grabbed my lavender tote.
Kudos to Trader Joe's for discouraging scalpers!
My initial impressions and shopping experience
Holding the mini tote in my hand, I couldn’t help but wonder about the viral obsession. Measuring only 13 inches long, 11 inches tall, and six inches wide, these aren’t your typical grocery haulers.
The size is deceptive in eCommerce photos since there’s nothing to provide scale. What appears to be a standard tote online is much smaller in person. Don’t expect to fit a week’s worth of groceries inside. Even a day’s worth might be a tight squeeze, depending on what you get.
So, why the craze? For starters, there’s the undeniable appeal of tiny versions of regular things. Then there’s the price — at under $5, it gives a bit of affordable retail therapy. And of course, the limited-time-only nature creates that fear of missing out.
What will fit in Trader Joe’s mini canvas tote bag?
After bringing my lavender miniature tote home, I realized it’s perfect for specific situations rather than weekly grocery runs. It’ll be my new go-to beach and pool bag, fitting all the essentials: sunscreen, a paperback, sunglasses, my phone and keys, and a small water bottle.
The two external pockets (one on each side) are handy — one for keys, another for my phone… while the main compartment holds bulkier items.
Tip: For parents planning Easter celebrations, these pastel-colored totes could make adorable baskets. Fill them with small treats and trinkets for a holiday gift that continues to be useful long after the chocolate is gone!
Final verdict: Worth it or not?
At $2.99, absolutely — Trader Joe’s mini canvas tote bag is a no-brainer purchase. The quality is solid, the colors are spring-perfect, and they’re cute. Just don’t expect them to replace your full-sized grocery bags.
If you’re hoping to snag one of these cult favorites, don’t wait. While Trader Joe’s hasn’t specified how long they’ll be available, the “limited time only” warning, coupled with last year’s experience, suggests they won’t last long. Plus, the shelves at my neighborhood store were already emptying as I left.
Whether you’re looking for a stylish beach companion, a unique gift vessel, or just want to be a part of the fun, these miniature totes deliver big on charm despite their small stature. Sometimes, it really is the small things that bring us joy.
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy the mini totes online from Trader Joe’s?
No, Trader Joe’s doesn’t sell any products online, including the mini totes. The only way to purchase them at retail price is by visiting a physical Trader Joe’s store while supplies last.
Do the mini totes have any weight limit or durability concerns?
While they’re small, the canvas material feels thick and sturdy enough for everyday essentials such as books, water bottles, and small personal items. The inner tag of the bag indicates, “reusable bag designed for at least 125 uses.”
Are the Trader Joe’s mini totes machine washable?
Made of heavy-duty cotton and polyester canvas, the Trader Joe’s mini totes are machine washable on a gentle cycle with cold water. Consider air drying to prevent shrinkage and maintain the bag’s shape.
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Note: This story was originally published on https://wavecomber.com/trader-joes-mini-canvas-tote-bags/.
The fascination with these mini totes is so interesting! I was in my local Verve Coffee shop over the weekend and noticed they jumped into the game with their own branded version. Quality was meh but it was cute!