Nanobag XL Review: A 25-Liter Tote That Folds Smaller Than a Phone
Part of The Ultimate Long-Haul and Packing Survival Guide
What we liked
- Folds tiny, about an ounce
- Holds 25 liters
- Ripstop nylon
What we didn't
- Thin fabric isn't padded
- Handles dig with heavy loads
- Pricier than basic totes
Quick take
The Nanobag XL is a 25-liter foldable tote made from thin diamond ripstop nylon that packs into its own tiny pouch.
Where to buy: Nanobag XL 25L Foldable Tote on Amazon (typically about $15 to $25).
My take
This is my new favorite travel bag, and I absolutely love it. I have two, a white one and a blue and green one. It packs much smaller than you’d think and holds a lot, 25 liters. Having it in your day pack or crossbody bag means you always have a bag for groceries, including when you’re visiting family. I’ve bought over 20 different packable bags over the years, and Nanobag is by far the best; I wish they made a backpack in this material. One tip: don’t get black. Most of these bags look wrinkled, like trash bags, when you pull them out, and a pattern breaks up the wrinkles. It looks high quality, feels great and packs down to close to nothing.
What it is
It’s built to replace plastic bags: grocery runs, beach days, or overflow when your suitcase hits the weight limit at check-in. It weighs around an ounce.
Where it fits on the road
Markets in Southeast Asia and Latin America often charge for bags or don’t offer them. A tote in your pocket handles fruit, water and snacks. At the airport, it becomes an extra personal item for things you move out of an overweight bag.
“I’ve bought over 20 foldable bags over the years. Nanobag is by far the best. It’s a must-have.”
Reggie R.
How it compares
- Baggu standard tote. Sturdier and cheaper, less compact.
- Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil. Similar ultralight idea.
- Plastic bags. Free, fragile and wasteful.
Shopping like a local on long stays
Long stays mean groceries. Stock basics like Atlas olive oil and Celtic salt, and use delivery apps like Grab for bigger orders.
Price and value
Expect to pay about $15 to $25, though prices on Amazon move often, so check the current listing before buying. Outstanding value: tiny, light and used every day. Easy recommendation.
How I scored it
The 5.0-out-of-5 score is led by my own recorded thoughts, checked against what buyers report across retailers, weighed on value, build quality and how well it fits a travel and remote-work life. Read the full method on the editorial policy page.
3 tips to get the most out of it
- Keep it clipped to your keys or bag strap. You’ll always have it.
- Use it as the airport overflow bag. Move heavy items in when the scale says so.
- Wash it inside out. It dries in minutes.
FAQ
How much weight can it hold?
A full grocery run; avoid sharp items.
Is it waterproof?
Water resistant, not waterproof.
Does it count as a personal item?
Depends on the airline.
Who it’s for (and who should skip it)
Good for every traveler and market shopper. Skip it if you need a structured, padded bag. For the bigger picture, the Long-Haul and Packing Survival Guide puts this alongside packing, sleep and comfort on long trips.
Bottom line
Tiny, light and used every day. Easy recommendation.
Our experience, in combination with what others say.
