Tanzania Tote (by Patricia White)

Kick those generic bags to the curb. Traveler totes are made from fabrics handpicked by fellow adventurers from around the world. They send us the fabric, and we craft it into a one-of-a-kind backpack. Spacious enough for your essentials, sturdy enough for your adventures, and lined with stories from across the world.

Traditional fabric from Tanzania brought to you by traveler Patricia White.

Limited Edition:  Only 15 made

Patricia White: Some of the fabrics were purchased in Arusha at the central market. This market is famous for it’s fabric market and is on TripAdvisor, etc. Some of the fabrics are from the local “sokoni”, a weekly market near Kisangaji that brings vendors from all over the area to sell clothing, housewares, produce, meat, livestock, etc.

In the central market, there were dozens of tiny shops with a kaleidoscope of fabric stacked from floor to ceiling. I was overwhelmed by so many choices and the friendly (but somewhat assertive vendors).

Some of my most vivid memories are of the beautiful dresses worn by the women in the village for special occasions. I loved sitting outside our tent on Sunday, watching the parade of colors and patterns worn by the women on their way to church.

Patricia’s first trip out of the US was to the tiny town of Kisangaji, Tanzania. She traveled to Tanzania with the Kisangaji Project, a non-profit organization that supports education, clean water and medical care in the area. It was one of the best experiences of her life and she has since returned several times to continue working with the people of Kisangaji. Her advice to others that are considering a trip overseas…"Venture a couple hours off the beaten path and you will find some of the kindest people and most memorable places.”