Rescued, repurposed, ready to go, again …

Introducing our new RNLI Repurposed bag collection, crafted from decommissioned RNLI lifejackets and end-of-service sailcloth. Handmade and stitched in the UK, each upcycled bag is full of character – no two are ever the same.

These strong, sustainable bags carry the unique story of the lifejackets and sails that brought them to life. Get kitted out for the new season – and help kit out our lifesaving crew.

 Limited quantities available now as part of our new 2026 launch. Restocks may follow, but early orders are strongly advised.

RNLI Repurposed Lifejacket Red Tote

This red and white tote bag is made from kit previously worn by inshore lifeboat (ILB) crews at sea, and sails donated as part of a sail-recycling scheme.

The straps, metal hardware, RNLI reflective logo, inner pocket and kit labels come from repurposed lifejackets, giving these durable, lifesaving materials a new lease of life. 

Get the red bag

RNLI Repurposed Lifejacket Red Tote

RNLI Repurposed Lifejacket Yellow Tote

This yellow and white tote bag is made from kit previously worn by all-weather lifeboat (ALB) crews at sea, and sails donated as part of a sail-recycling scheme.
 
The bag has a popper fastening and an inner zipped pocket, and the handles make it easy to carry over the shoulder - whether you’re running errands or doing the grocery shopping. When you use it, you’ll be supporting brave RNLI volunteers who are ready to launch to the rescue 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Get the yellow bag

RNLI Repurposed Lifejacket Yellow Tote

Two people, the makers of the bags holding freshly created RNLI repurposed tote bags in a workshop setting.

The Journey...

Step 1 - Saving lives at sea

Our RNLI Repurposed collection began as lifejackets, worn by our inshore and all-weather lifeboat crews as they launched to the rescue, saving lives at sea.

Step 1 - Saving lives at sea

Step 2 - Taking them apart

A team of RNLI staff and volunteers gave up their time to carefully cut up the lifejackets, selecting the essential pieces - like straps, buckles, pockets and the reflective RNLI logo - that could be used in the next chapter of their journey.

Step 2 - Taking them apart

Step 3 - Made with care

Down on the Devon coast in the UK, the pieces are then carefully crafted into bags - handmade and stitched by Sails and Canvas.

Step 3 - Made with care

Step 4 - Now yours

This bag is a lifesaver, and it could be yours. Every pound and euro of profit goes back to saving lives at sea, so when you use it, you'll be supporting brave RNLI volunteers.

Step 4 - Now yours

Size Guide

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Size Guide

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Size Guide

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Size Guide

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