Why the Costco Rolling Tote Is the Better Buy for Moms (Sorry Hulken, We’ll Keep Our Extra $100)
If you’re a mom, chances are your car has become a mobile command center. Between Costco runs, library trips, weekend sports, and school events, you’re hauling everything — snacks, folding chairs, backpacks, extra shoes, water bottles, and the occasional forgotten science project.
For years, I relied on reusable grocery bags and oversized totes that inevitably broke, tipped, or left me juggling armfuls of stuff with one kid on my hip. Then I discovered rolling utility bags — and I’ll never go back.
At first, I was tempted by the trendy, Instagram-famous Hulken Bag. I’d seen it in influencer “mom hacks” videos and thought, this is the answer to my chaos. But before I hit purchase, I spotted the new Costco Rolling Tote in-store — and friends, I’m so glad I did.
Here’s why I truly believe the Costco Rolling Tote is the better buy for moms like me — even without a telescopic handle (and no, the Hulken doesn’t have one either).
🧳 Let’s Start With the Basics: What Are These Bags?
The Hulken Bag
• A tall, soft-sided utility bag on wheels
• Available in three sizes (Small, Medium, Large)
• Fixed, rolling wheels
• Two types of carry handles (short + long)
• Prices range from $120–$150+ depending on size
• Available in several colors
• Designed in Switzerland, made in Europe
The Costco Rolling Tote
• Soft-sided utility tote with four spinner wheels
• One roomy size (comparable to Hulken Medium/Large)
• Features zip-top closure, reinforced base, and interior pocket
• Two heavy-duty fabric handles
• $47.99 at Costco (in-store and online in select areas)
• Currently only available in black with silver accents
Note: Neither bag includes a telescoping suitcase-style handle. You guide them by hand using the fabric straps or pushing from the top.
1. Price: The Costco Tote Saves You Over $100
Let’s not pretend cost doesn’t matter. As a mom, I’m already budgeting for summer camps, birthday parties, and the weekly Costco run.
• Hulken Bag: $129 for Medium, $150+ for Large
• Costco Tote: $47.99 — period
That’s less than HALF the price for a bag that accomplishes the same basic function: haul your stuff without breaking your back. Unless you’re going for a luxury aesthetic, there’s just no comparison. The value Costco offers is unbeatable.
2. The Costco Tote Has a More Functional Wheel Design
Both the Hulken and Costco bags roll — but the way they roll matters.
• Hulken: Two fixed rear wheels and two pivoting front wheels (only turns when tilted and dragged)
• Costco Tote: Four true 360° spinner wheels — like modern luggage
Why that matters for moms:
• You can push or pull the Costco tote upright, without tipping it
• It glides smoothly through tight spaces like store aisles or school drop-off areas
• Your kids can help push it without tipping it over (game-changer!)
The Hulken’s fixed rear wheels require you to angle it like a suitcase from 2005. Fine for short trips, but not ideal when you’re managing bags, kids, and a Starbucks cup at once.
3. The Costco Tote Is Structured for Real-Life Loading
Let’s talk shape and structure.
• Hulken is tall and narrow — great for slim, vertical loads but tricky when you need to dig around or pack odd-shaped items
• Costco’s tote is wider and lower — making it easier to load and unload, especially from a car trunk.
Real-life use case:
Last weekend, I packed the Costco tote with 3 folding camp chairs, snacks, sunscreen, and a soccer ball. Everything fit flat and accessible. My friend’s Hulken tipped in the parking lot and dumped snacks everywhere. 😬
Also — the zippered top on the Costco tote is a major win. It keeps things in place, dry, and secure during car rides or rainy days. The Hulken has no top closure, so your items are always exposed - GAME CHANGER.
4. It’s Built Tough (Without Being Precious)
If I’m spending over $100 on a bag, I don’t want to be afraid of scuffing it. Hulken is sleek and trendy, but it feels like it’s made for people hauling curated flower arrangements, not muddy cleats and juice boxes.
Costco’s version is:
• Durable, wipeable, water-resistant
• Reinforced on the bottom and sides
• Strong enough to carry heavy groceries, bottled drinks, and gear
• Soft enough to fold down when not in use
Plus, Costco’s return policy is second to none. If something did go wrong? I know I’m covered.
5. It Folds Down for Easy Storage
Both bags fold, but the Costco tote folds flatter and cleaner. I keep mine in the trunk between errands — it takes up no more space than a beach towel. It also stands up nicely when unfolded, unlike Hulken’s more floppy design that sometimes needs to be packed full to stay upright.
As a mom constantly working out of the back of an SUV, that clean footprint matters.
6. It’s a Better Fit for Mom Life (Not Just Mom Influencers)
Sure, Hulken looks great in a styled Instagram post. But the Costco tote is what I grab when I’m:
• Hauling teacher gifts to school
• Rolling snacks and folding chairs across a soccer field
• Managing groceries + baby gear + returns in one trip
• Heading to the park with everything but the kitchen sink
It’s not about looking perfect — it’s about working smarter, not harder. The Costco tote gets the job done without needing its own moment in the spotlight.
✨ The Verdict: Costco Rolling Tote > Hulken, Especially for Busy Moms
If you’re a mom with a full schedule, a full trunk, and a full heart (but a very real budget), the Costco Rolling Tote is the clear winner. It may not have the Hulken brand name, but it has every feature that matters more:
✅ Affordable (under $50!)
✅ Four spinner wheels = easier movement
✅ Zip-top closure = no spills or splashes
✅ Durable, structured, and easy to clean
✅ Better shape for loading bulky items
✅ Folds flat for trunk or closet storage
And if you’re still on the fence? Just know this: I bought one. Then I bought a second. Then my sister bought two. Because once you start using it, you realize it’s not about the label — it’s about making mom life less chaotic.
Mom tip: Keep one packed in the trunk at all times with essentials — blanket, umbrella, baby wipes, spare water bottles, and snacks. Instant preparedness, zero stress.