6 Epic Things You Can Pack in MEC’s New Massive Tote



MEC tote bag
Photo by Dania Rashid

1. A Whole Tent (and Maybe a Friend)

Planning a camping trip this summer? This tote will swallow your tent, sleeping bag, stove and even your camping buddy (even if they’re the cute, furry kind) and you’ll still have room for marshmallows. As the kind of person that never packs light and is secretly a neat freak, this is my best friend from now on.

2. Your Picnic Basket

outdoor buffet picnic
Photo by Dania Rashid

Those quaint, little wicker baskets aren’t built for foodies like you and me. Blanket? Check. Four types of fancy cheese? Check. Entire watermelon? It fits. Even toss in (not literally!) actual glassware or even your china since we’re fancy like that. The added compression straps will make sure there are no spills and everything stays intact! You might need a wheelbarrow to help carry it, but at least you won’t have to go grocery shopping mid-picnic because of food shortage. Trust me, it sucks (I speak from experience—my family members are foodies).

3. Forest Fashion Closet

MEC tote gear bag
Photo by Dania Rashid

Why should I choose between my functional fleece, my cute rain shell and that puffy jacket that makes me look like a stylish marshmallow? I’m bringing all three because now I can. Options are key. With the unpredictable Canadian weather, I can also pack my “just in case it snows mid-summer” layer. The MEC tote doesn’t judge. It just hauls your entire trail wardrobe like the fashion-forward hiking companion it is.

4. Pet Supplies (and Your Actual Pet)

puppy beach day

Pack in some treats, a leash, a collapsible water bowl, a doggie/kitty raincoat, three tennis balls and a chew toy shaped like a tree. Don’t forget the doggo and/or kitty. In fact, if your pet is small enough (chihuahua-sized), they might just hop in, too. The tote is basically a canine/feline limo. And you’re ready for a day of outdoor furry fun!

5. Beach Day Swag

MEC tote snacks books gear
Photo by Dania Rashid

I don’t know about you, but I take my beach days seriously. I need my swimsuit, my breezy tunic, my sunglasses, my sunscreen, my snacks, my cold drink(s) and, most importantly, my entertainment. It depends on the mood, but said entertainment could vary from beach volleyball, badminton or soccer to reading, drawing or writing. Either way, I know I can count on MEC’s tote. Plus the PU-coated bottom that resists abrasion and water is perfect for those sandy beaches. Pictured above: my rain jacket, sneakers, snacks, picnic blanket and my entire Harry Potter book collection (because you never know when you need to do a marathon) stuffed into the tote!

6. “I Definitely Need to Take This” Backup Bag

MEC tote size
Photo by Dania Rashid

We’ve all had the all-consuming feeling of “should I take this or leave it?” at least once in a while. Well, not anymore. For all the gear you want to take but can’t rationally justify, the MEC tote is here to save you (and your sister who has to hear your indecisive rants). Oh, and guess what? This also includes all the snacks you’ve wanted to pack but couldn’t. Toss in 17 granola bars, the bags of chips and an unreasonable amount of s’mores kits (it’s literally in the name—some-more!). You’re not hiking hungry this time—you’re hiking prepared.

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