Vintage Trader Joe’s Tote Bags That Deserve A Comeback

It’s no secret that we love Trader Joe’s tote bags. Everyone loves Trader Joe’s tote bags. And thankfully, the grocery store isn’t holding back on bringing out new ones in 2026: Just a couple weeks back, we were discussing the fact that TJ’s viral insulated mini totes are coming out in six different colors starting today, May 20. 

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We’ve gotta say, though, that at the moment, the store’s bags feel pretty low-key. And honestly? We just love it when it goes big on its designs. So, we took a trip down memory lane to look at our favorite vintage tote bags through the years, which need to make a return to TJ’s, stat. 

Hawaiian Tote Bag

Why mess with a classic? The Hawaiian tote bag from Trader Joe’s has become a thing of legend ever since it debuted in the 2000s. With a red hibiscus design, it’s refined, eye-catching, and sturdy – sturdy enough for people to still be using it more than 20 years later. 

Tea Kettle Tote Bag

In the early 2010s, Trader Joe’s came out with a tea-themed tote bag that we kinda can’t stop thinking about. The design prominently featured an illustrated tea kettle next to other kitchen items and utensils, including a tea cup, teaspoon, rolling pin, cocoa tin, and a hand-crank whisk. It was gorgeous. Elegant. Perfect for carrying tea bags. 

Sailing The Culinary Seas Tote Bag

This bag first made its appearance almost 20 years ago, and now it’s become a collector’s item, for very good reason. The Sailing the Culinary Seas tote featured Trader Joe’s classic illustrated style, and featured a group of explorers charting a route, all in pursuit of food perfection. It remains some people’s favorite tote of all time. 

Veggie Tote Bag

This bag appeared several times throughout the 2010s, and it was a hit every time. A canvas tote decorated with illustrated vegetables in vibrant colors, it was a clear nod to the store’s focus on natural produce and ingredients.

Sardine Tote Bag

This tote bag came out a few years back, so it’s a bit of a stretch to call it vintage – but when it looks this good, it’s hard not to include it. The Sardine Tote Bag was a glorious explosion of pastel blues, pinks, and greens, with an illustrated sardine tin in the center – and with speech bubbles coming from the sardines’ mouths, suggesting recipes. A bag with tips. We love it.