Trader Joe’s internet-famous mini must-have is coming back—here’s how to get your hands on one
- Replies 0
It started with a small, simple, and unexpectedly iconic release.
What happened next was a viral whirlwind that turned grocery runs into treasure hunts and casual shoppers into collectors.
Now, that same buzz is back on the shelves this April, and if you missed it the first time, you're not alone.
The good news? Fans are spilling the secrets to scoring one of Trader Joe’s most beloved—and elusive—accessories.
The Totes That Took Over TikTok
In March 2024, Trader Joe’s surprised fans by quietly releasing mini canvas tote bags in their signature aesthetic.
The bags, retailing for just $2.99, became an overnight sensation. Social media lit up with shoppers flaunting their finds—and lines wrapped around stores in response.
According to Trader Joe’s spokesperson Nakia Rohde, the bags "certainly sold more quickly than we anticipated."
In fact, they were never formally advertised before fans discovered them, but that didn't stop the frenzy. "Before we had the opportunity to promote them in any way, customers across the country found them at their neighborhood Trader Joe’s," she added.
From social media hauls to eBay listings marked at hundreds of dollars, these tiny totes became the ultimate symbol of grocery store status.
Mark Your Calendars: The Return Is Near
This April, Trader Joe’s is bringing the totes back.
While the store hasn't confirmed every detail, the brand’s loyal following is already buzzing with preparation.
So what’s the secret to snagging one before they vanish again?
Devoted shoppers who scored theirs last year are sharing their best advice—and it’s all about strategy.
Fan-Backed Strategies That Work
First: timing is everything.
Veteran tote hunters suggest arriving before your local Trader Joe’s opens.
Lines have been known to form early, and those first through the door often walk away with the best selection.
Can't make the morning rush? Don’t worry. Some stores are known to restock midday—so it might pay off to swing by again in the afternoon.
One shopper advised, “If you're not able to, they'll sometimes restock midday. May the odds be ever in our favor.” Others recommend choosing your location wisely.
Stores in smaller neighborhoods tend to sell out slower, giving you a better shot at finding inventory.
Limits, Pricing, and What to Expect at Checkout
Some stores imposed purchase limits during the last release—and it's likely to happen again.
An employee from a California store said they capped purchases at four to eight totes per person, depending on color.
Ultimately, it's up to store management to decide how to enforce limits, so be ready for variation.
Price-wise, things are staying affordable. The mini totes will again sell for just $2.99, making them an accessible (and adorable) grab for shoppers looking to spruce up their errand game.
New Size, New Color, Same Obsession
The buzz isn't just about the minis.
This year’s tote drop is expected to include a larger version as well.
Early speculation suggests it’ll be sold exclusively in a peach tone—a subtle but chic addition to the lineup.
While it hasn’t been officially confirmed by Trader Joe’s, fan forums and social media chatter are treating it like fact.
Why the Hype?
There’s something about the design that shoppers can’t resist.
Simple yet stylish, functional but fun—it’s a tote that taps into nostalgia and novelty all at once.
And thanks to limited supply and reselling drama, it's taken on an almost mythic status among Trader Joe’s fans.
Last year, some resellers listed the mini bags for as much as $500 online.
Trader Joe’s was quick to respond, stating it was “done without our approval or authorization and outside the controls of our quality-minded supply chain.”
The company continued, "To be clear, we neither condone nor support the reselling of our products and do all we can to stop the practice."
In a world where product drops can feel more like concerts, this grocery chain is trying to keep things fair—and grounded.
Make the Most of Your Visit
Planning your tote hunt? Why not use it as a chance to sharpen your grocery game, too? Here are some tried-and-true shopping hacks to keep in mind while you’re there:
So, are you planning to join the hunt this April? Will you go big with the rumored peach tote or stick with the tried-and-true mini? Whatever your tote goal, the Trader Joe’s community is here to cheer you on—and maybe even trade tips along the way. Drop your tips, experiences, or questions in the comments below.
Read more:
What happened next was a viral whirlwind that turned grocery runs into treasure hunts and casual shoppers into collectors.
Now, that same buzz is back on the shelves this April, and if you missed it the first time, you're not alone.
The good news? Fans are spilling the secrets to scoring one of Trader Joe’s most beloved—and elusive—accessories.
The Totes That Took Over TikTok
In March 2024, Trader Joe’s surprised fans by quietly releasing mini canvas tote bags in their signature aesthetic.
The bags, retailing for just $2.99, became an overnight sensation. Social media lit up with shoppers flaunting their finds—and lines wrapped around stores in response.
According to Trader Joe’s spokesperson Nakia Rohde, the bags "certainly sold more quickly than we anticipated."
In fact, they were never formally advertised before fans discovered them, but that didn't stop the frenzy. "Before we had the opportunity to promote them in any way, customers across the country found them at their neighborhood Trader Joe’s," she added.
From social media hauls to eBay listings marked at hundreds of dollars, these tiny totes became the ultimate symbol of grocery store status.
Mark Your Calendars: The Return Is Near
This April, Trader Joe’s is bringing the totes back.
While the store hasn't confirmed every detail, the brand’s loyal following is already buzzing with preparation.
So what’s the secret to snagging one before they vanish again?
Devoted shoppers who scored theirs last year are sharing their best advice—and it’s all about strategy.
Fan-Backed Strategies That Work
First: timing is everything.
Veteran tote hunters suggest arriving before your local Trader Joe’s opens.
Lines have been known to form early, and those first through the door often walk away with the best selection.
Can't make the morning rush? Don’t worry. Some stores are known to restock midday—so it might pay off to swing by again in the afternoon.
One shopper advised, “If you're not able to, they'll sometimes restock midday. May the odds be ever in our favor.” Others recommend choosing your location wisely.
Stores in smaller neighborhoods tend to sell out slower, giving you a better shot at finding inventory.
Limits, Pricing, and What to Expect at Checkout
Some stores imposed purchase limits during the last release—and it's likely to happen again.
An employee from a California store said they capped purchases at four to eight totes per person, depending on color.
Ultimately, it's up to store management to decide how to enforce limits, so be ready for variation.
Price-wise, things are staying affordable. The mini totes will again sell for just $2.99, making them an accessible (and adorable) grab for shoppers looking to spruce up their errand game.
New Size, New Color, Same Obsession
Early speculation suggests the mini tote will be sold exclusively in a peach tone. Source: traderjoesobsessed / Instagram
The buzz isn't just about the minis.
This year’s tote drop is expected to include a larger version as well.
Early speculation suggests it’ll be sold exclusively in a peach tone—a subtle but chic addition to the lineup.
While it hasn’t been officially confirmed by Trader Joe’s, fan forums and social media chatter are treating it like fact.
Why the Hype?
There’s something about the design that shoppers can’t resist.
Simple yet stylish, functional but fun—it’s a tote that taps into nostalgia and novelty all at once.
And thanks to limited supply and reselling drama, it's taken on an almost mythic status among Trader Joe’s fans.
Last year, some resellers listed the mini bags for as much as $500 online.
Trader Joe’s was quick to respond, stating it was “done without our approval or authorization and outside the controls of our quality-minded supply chain.”
The company continued, "To be clear, we neither condone nor support the reselling of our products and do all we can to stop the practice."
In a world where product drops can feel more like concerts, this grocery chain is trying to keep things fair—and grounded.
Make the Most of Your Visit
Planning your tote hunt? Why not use it as a chance to sharpen your grocery game, too? Here are some tried-and-true shopping hacks to keep in mind while you’re there:
- Make a list—and stick to it.
- Set a budget before walking in.
- Never shop hungry (it really does lead to overspending).
- Skip pre-sliced produce—it’s often double the price.
- Compare prices by unit, not package size.
- Sign up for loyalty programs and cash in on rewards.
- Follow your favorite stores on social media for surprise deals.
Read more:
Last edited:
