Trader Joe’s gifts us with many great snacks, random goods (corn candle, anyone?), and holiday treats to empty our wallets on. But nothing — and I mean, nothing — has been as popular as the Trader Joe’s pastel mini totes that took over the world last spring. It was so bad that people were reselling the colorful little totes for outrageous prices. We’re talking anywhere from $200 per bag to $125,000 per bag. The good news is, they’re back! You can once again get your hands on this practically legendary tote bag. The bad news is, people are already fiending over them. The rush for a tote is race-for-toilet-paper-in-the-pandemic intense. So if you’re looking to get your hands on a Trader Joe’s pastel tote bag for the first time, or return for a color you don’t have, you need to run (I’m actually not kidding here) to your local Trader Joe’s.
What are the Trader Joe’s pastel mini totes?
The pastel mini totes are mini versions of Trader Joe’s classic canvas bag emblazoned with their logo. TJ’s has had various versions of the mini tote, including a classic navy and red and green for the holidays, but these pastel spring colors are by far the favorites. The mini totes come in sea green, sky blue, lavender, and bubblegum pink, and will run you $2.99.
What is the new bag this year?
Now, let’s be honest, when you go to Trader Joe’s, a mini tote isn’t going to be able to carry everything you’re picking up. Which might be why TJ’s has introduced a large lavender tote bag this year in addition to the mini totes. This new bag comes in at $3.99
How can you get a tote?
The totes have been spotted at Trader Joe’s already, so I’d say you should check the closest store to you immediately. Many customers have shown that Trader Joe’s is limiting how many totes you can purchase. One store limited customers to 5 large bags and 10 mini totes. A stricter store was saying customers could only get one of each color.
If you’re really eager, it sounds like you should still be able to grab at least one of each version. Just keep in mind that other people would love a tote too, and maybe hold off on actually picking up all 10 of them.
How are people reacting to the return of the bags?
It’s been a year, but the hype for these bags has not gone anywhere. The sheer amount of people posting about the bags is a testament to the excitement. Then there’s how people are behaving. Customers are racing to stores to grab the tote bags, mobbing the displays and waiting in out-the-door lines. Obtaining one of these totes, it seems, is no easy feat.
The enthusiasm for these bags is borderline insane. But I mean, if Trader Joe’s totes are what it takes for people to use more reusable bags, then maybe we shouldn’t complain.