Towel tote

Abstract

The present invention provides a lightweight carryall for a beach towel, with additional storage space, in the form of pockets. This apparatus can be used with any towel, thus obviating the need to purchase special beach towel / tote bag combinations. Briefly, the apparatus is secured around a rolled towel, using straps which can be tied or secured using a fastener, such as Velcro®. The apparatus also has shoulder straps, which allow the apparatus and attached towel to be worn as a backpack, thereby freeing the user's arms and hands.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] Frequenting a beach, lake, pool or camp is a common summertime activity, especially for children. A trip to a beach or lake typically requires the visitor to bring with them a variety of items, including but not limited to a towel, suntan lotion, a radio or MP3 player, a snack, sunglasses, a book, a cell phone, a change of clothing and a wallet. Carrying these items can be cumbersome, so numerous devices have been created to address this problem. [0002] For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,276,828, issued to Otley et al. describes a towel with zippered pockets that can be folded and used as a tote bag. U.S. Pat. No. 4,967,986 discloses a carryall suitable for transporting a towel, having a plurality of enclosures that can be used for storage. Patent Application US2004 / 0155077 also discloses a combination beach towel and knapsack. This towel can be converted into a knapsack, suitable for wearing on the user's back and also has a storage pocket. [0003] Each ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0004] The shortcomings of the prior art are overcome by the present invention. The present invention provides a lightweight but durable carryall for a beach towel or other object(s), with additional storage space, in the form of pockets. This apparatus can be used with any bath or beach sized towel, thus obviating the need to purchase special beach towel / tote bag combinations. Briefly, the apparatus is secured around a folded and rolled towel, using straps that can be tied together or secured with a fastener, such as Velcro®. The apparatus also has shoulder straps, which allow the apparatus and attached towel to be worn as a backpack, thereby freeing the user's arms and hands. This allows “hands free” mobility for safe travel such as on foot, bike, scooter, moped, or motorcycle. “Hands free” mobility is an important safety feature for all users, especially for children, caretakers who wish to hold the hands of children, or those who wish to free their hands to carry other items. The tote can also be used without a towel to secure clothing or items for an overnight stay or other purposes.

Problems solved by technology

Carrying these items can be cumbersome, so numerous devices have been created to address this problem.

If the specialized towel were not washed and ready for use the next day, the user would be forced to either forgo bringing the towel, or bring it without cleaning it first.

Furthermore, due to the special features incorporated in each of these towels, they are less practical for everyday use.

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