As I mentioned, I was able to try out multiple offerings from the brand this summer, including all three sizes of the bags: the large Original Bogg ($90), the medium-sized Baby Bogg ($70) and the adorable mini Bitty Bogg ($55). Size-wise, the Original Bogg is HUGE—as in, large enough to fit a beach blanket, towel, *two* laptops, a book, some snacks and possibly even a small dog. It clocks in at 19 inches long, 9 inches wide and 14 inches high and can carry up to *40 pounds* of stuff. It’s also compatible with the add-on Bogg Bevy cup holder ($20), which can comfortably fit a cup as large as a 42-ounce Yeti Rambler. The medium Baby Bogg is also impressively roomy, with space enough for multiple towels, also two laptops, a water bottle and small accessories. The smallest selection, the Bitty Bogg, is more of a handbag size (I actually took it out for a post-beach dinner on my trip), but can also be loaded up with a large tumbler, wallet, sunglasses, sunscreen and even a book. All three also come included with a clear plastic zip pouch relative to their size, which is perfect for securing important items like cards, cash and keys. Let’s just say these give Mary Poppins’s bag a run for its money.
So, you may be wondering, just what is it about these tote bags that could turn a self-proclaimed beach-hater like moi into an outdoor enjoyer? Well, in addition to fitting any and all of my comfort activities (laptops, books, etc.), they also eliminate the dreaded mess of sand, dirt and grass clinging onto everything—one of the things I dislike most. Even during a gusty day at the beach (during which an actual umbrella blew away from our lunch setup) and a rocky boat ride, the bags’ solid construction kept them standing upright, so not once did my things spill over onto the ground.
While the holes in the bag do allow for some bits of sand to get inside if there’s wind, the grains just slide off of the EVA material, so a quick shake and pat prevented me from tracking it all into my hotel room. After using one of the bags in a grassy yard, I can also confirm that thick bits of soil and greenery come right off with a swipe of a damp paper towel—unfortunately, the same cannot be said about my many grass-stained canvas totes. And if you really put them through the ringer, the Boggs can withstand a full-on hose down.
Carrying the bags is also a breeze thanks to the flexibility of the material and double top handles that have a high enough drop to lug over your shoulder. However, I will admit that the larger original Bogg Bag does start to feel heavy after walking a while, especially when it's all packed with stuff—it does weigh 5 pounds on its own, according to the brand. But unless you're heading out on a long hike before you get to your outdoor destination, it shouldn't really be an issue.
My only other note about the bags is that their sturdy form also means they're pretty bulky, so don't expect to fold one into a carry-on suitcase. You can, however, stuff 'em into the trunk of your car and not worry about them getting bent out of shape.
