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Ucon Acrobatics Brandon Backpack (~US$ 85)

The Brandon Backpack is a great option for minimalists, with its low-key aesthetics and just enough organization to keep the essentials tidy without cluttering things up. It’s also made with weatherproof recycled materials and fits up to a 15″ laptop.

Buddy x B: MING by BEAMS Play Backpack (~US$ 130)

The Play backpack offers a solid mix of street style, quality weatherproof construction and convenient access. Made in Japan, the bag has a front pocket for ready access to frequently used items, along with a wide-opening main compartment to easily pack and retrieve your gear.

The Brown Buffalo Conceal Pack (US$ 139)

The Conceal Pack is built tough to tackle whatever the day or night may bring, with hard-wearing 1000D Cordura and water-repellent YKK AquaGuard zippers. Combine its ruggedness with a sleek exterior and useful interior organization for your tech and smaller EDC, and you’ve got a reliable companion for the commute and travel alike.

F/CE No Seam Zip Lock Bag (US$ 185.13)

If protection from the elements is a priority, look to the waterproof No Seam Zip Lock Bag. With its welded construction and zip lock rolltop closure this pack is equally at home on city streets in a shower or sailing out at sea, all the while keeping your gear safe and sound in pared-back style.

Arc’teryx Arro 22 Backpack (US$ 200)

The Arc’teryx Arro 22 has been a street staple for over 10 years, and is a prominent pack in Japanese street culture. Seen in so many variations and collabs, this is about as classic and timeless as you can get. A considered mix of urban styling and outdoor technical design makes it equally adept at conquering the city or a weekend hike. An interior sleeve fits up to a 15″ laptop or hydration bladder, while exterior front and side pockets are ideal for stashing items you want close at hand.

Helinox TERG Daypack Anotherday (US$ 250)

Looking for a pack that moves smoothly from the streets to the hills? Meet the TERG Daypack Anotherday, which offers excellent access to gear throughout the bag by fully unzipping the front panel. There’s also a dedicated laptop compartment and a choice of exterior pockets for ready access to your day-to-day or outdoor essentials.

master-piece WAP No.02520 (~US$ 253)

Roaming with smaller loads? Consider the WAP No.02520, which is well suited to day trips or EDC use with an 11L volume and a range of pockets to keep smaller items in check. Made in Japan, the pack salutes the outdoors with its exterior rope attachment but is equally ready for a day on campus, at the beach or a lazy weekend meander.

MAKAVELIC 4th Anniversary Bind Up Canvas Backpack (US$ 269)

Tokyo brand MAKAVELIC find a great balance of street style and everyday functionality with this pack. Durable construction and handy quick-access pockets and straps keep you well prepped to handle a range of EDC or travel needs.

Lexdray Ibiza Pack (US$ 269)

Lexdray teamed up with DJs to design the Ibiza Pack, and if you dig organization this pack will definitely be your jam. There’s multiple compartments and a host of interior and exterior pockets to keep all your bits and pieces tidy and easily accessible. Plus with backpack straps and tote-style handles, you can haul in the way that best suits your changing needs.

master-piece Slick Series Ballistic Backpack (US$ 295)

The clean silhouette of master-piece’s Slick Series Ballistic Backpack stands out in any urban setting. But take a closer look and you’ll also find top-notch Japanese craftsmanship, simple organization and the versatility to move smoothly from work to play.

Haerfest Arch Backpack (US$ 295)

The slim, stylish profile of the Arch Backpack delivers an instant hit of street suaveness to your carry setup, backed up with a durable build featuring Japanese jacquard cotton, leather detailing and brass hardware. But there’s more than just appealing aesthetics, with a convenient front pocket and space for up to a 15″ laptop in the main compartment.

F/CE Travel Backpack (US$ 298)

From work to the weekend, the F/CE Travel Backpack has you well covered with a versatile design that can stash your day-to-day gear or travel essentials equally well. The 33L pack includes an interior sleeve that fits up to a 15″ laptop, as well as a variety of internal and exterior pockets and attachment points to secure your gear on the go.

AS2OV Waterproof Cordura 305D Backpack (US$ 310)

Looking for a refined balance of durability and functionality? Japanese brand AS2OV deliver with this pack, which merges quality craftsmanship, organization for smaller items, and understated aesthetics that look equally good on the streets, in the office or on your travels.

Côte&Ciel Nile Memory Tech Backpack (US$ 325)

The Nile Backpack immediately draws the eye with its draping form, but look beneath the casual-chic style and you’ll find plenty of practical features too. A padded laptop compartment keeps your tech safe while the front compartment is ideal for bulkier items. And if it rains, the water-repellent fabric and integrated rain hood help keep you and your gear dry.

Alchemy Equipment X Carryology AEL222 (~US$ 340)

Our goal when we teamed up with Alchemy Equipment was to create a sleek all-rounder that could move from the city to the mountain and beyond. The Alchemy Equipment X Carryology AEL222 fuses tailored style and functionality to embrace the office, the weekend and outdoor adventures. It’s crafted with a combination of subtle and water-resistant Cordura® Canvas CD Camo Jacquard and top-grain leather. The bright orange lining in our signature collab colorway makes the contents easier to quickly identify. There’s dedicated storage for a 15″ laptop with a useful ‘eject’ pull-tab, plus a range of additional pockets for handy organization.

master-piece × Tadaomi Shibuya COLLABORATION SERIES No. 01990-ts (~US$ 378)

master-piece teamed up with illustrator and designer Tadaomi Shibuya for this collaborative pack which sports a distinct take on urban camouflage with straight lines. The eye-catching looks are complemented by a water-repellent and abrasion-resistant build featuring a hard-wearing combination of leather, polyester and Cordura fabric.

hobo CELSPUN® Nylon Sherpa Backpack by ARAITENT (US$ 389)

Tough and adaptable, this Sherpa backpack is made in Japan with CELSPUN nylon and leather detailing. The pack features a drawstring main compartment and interior sleeve for storing your tech or documents, while a choice of exterior pockets ensure frequently used items stay at the ready.

Atelier de L’Armée Flight Pack (US$ 435)

Ruggedly stylish, this Flight Pack is handcrafted in Italy with water-repellent Swedish M90 Camouflage fabric and vegetable-tanned leather. The pack offers front and side exterior pockets, as well as further interior pockets for storing a laptop and smaller items. And with its multifunctional design you can easily alternate between day-to-day use and overnight trips.

Y-3 Large Backpack (US$ 460)

Stemming from a collaboration between adidas and Japanese fashion designer Yohji Yamamoto, the Y-3 Large Backpack combines a sleek athletic feel with everyday functionality. The pack includes a range of pockets for stashing smaller essentials, in a design that looks equally at home in work or workout environments.

WANT Les Essentiels Kastrup Backpack (US$ 495)

Want low-key elegance to carry the essentials? The Kastrup Backpack provides a considered blend of fashion and function, with a sleek exterior, wide-opening main compartment for easy access, and sufficient organization to keep your tech and small items tidy without sacrificing the minimalist-chic style.

Arc’teryx Veilance Nomin Pack 2.0 (US$ 763)

The revised Nomin Pack definitely falls within premium pack territory, but the superior construction will take a beating for years to come, while those uber-sleek aesthetics will draw more than their fair share of admiring glances. The weatherproof backpack provides two compartments and a selection of organization options to keep tech, documents, and small EDC or travel items in order.

bagjack NXL Skidcat (~US$ 825)

Handmade in Berlin, the NXL Skidcat is a tough and weatherproof pack with a variety of useful features to make carrying easier. The bag stands upright for easy packing and unloading, and features a range of pockets including two removable inner pockets to tailor it to your needs. And with quick and easy magnetic Fidlock buckles access is simple too.

visvim Suede-Trimmed Cordura Nylon Backpack (US$ 860)

There’s no denying it’s pricey, but visvim’s 20L backpack is a definite classic on the streetwear scene. This version features a durable and stylish combination of Cordura nylon and suede, brought together with careful Japanese craftsmanship. The pack includes an interior pocket and laptop sleeve, along with quick-access pockets to keep essentials close at hand.

foot the coacher x Porter Back Pack (US$ 872)

Is this bag expensive? Yes. But do you get a lot for your hard-earned bucks? Heck yeah. Born from a collab between foot the coacher and Porter, this pack offers a great combination of urban tactical style, meticulous Japanese construction, and practical versatility to suit a range of carry needs. Front, side and hip belt pockets keep smaller items within easy reach, while the main compartment can be accessed from the top as well as through a side zipper.

Porter by Yoshida Counter Shade Backpack (US$ 1088.35)

Hailing from one of Japan’s most respected carry brands, the Counter Shade Backpack delivers on multiple fronts, with dialed-in urban styling, solid craftsmanship and a versatile design that lends itself to EDC, travel and more. A mix of exterior pockets are on hand for frequently used gear, while an interior sleeve takes care of your tech on the move.

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and wander X-Pac 30L Backpack 

and wander finds the sweet spot between outdoor and EDC design with the X-Pac 30L Backpack. This lightweight and water-resistant pack offers good access throughout the main compartment, along with a choice of handy quick-access pockets and the versatility to move between outdoor and urban pursuits.

and wander Cuben Fiber Backpack 

Weighing in at just 225 grams, this Cuben Fiber backpack is a great option when you want to shed excess carry weight while still enjoying functional features. The rolltop opening gives you the flexibility to adapt to a range of loads, while quick-access pockets keep frequently used essentials within easy reach.

visvim Jute 20L Backpack 

The premium price tag is undeniable (and so is the amount of times this silhouette has ‘inspired’ others), but the urban style is solid with this visvim Jute 20L backpack. Crafted with a combination of Italian jute fabric and UK suede, the pack features a 15″ laptop compartment, side and top entry, along with exterior storage options for quick-access and bulkier items.

Hobo CELSPUN® Nylon Slope 35L Backpack by ARAITENT 

Eye-catching and multifunctional, this handsome heritage-vibe pack adapts to a variety of day-to-day or overnight carry needs. A wide U-shaped opening provides ready access for packing and retrieving your gear, with interior storage for a laptop and convenient exterior pockets and attachment points for keeping frequently used and smaller items within easy reach. Hobo collaborated with Japanese tent maker ARAITENT to make the pack, so you know it’ll perform well when weather strikes.

Hobo x Wild Things Coyote X-Pac Nylon Backpack 25L 

Looking for access with a nod to the outdoors? Look to this collaboration offering from Hobo and Wild Things. Made with durable, water-resistant X-Pac nylon, the bag provides easy access with a wide-opening main compartment. Exterior attachment points let you tailor your carry setup to changing needs, while an interior sleeve provides storage for your tech.

Porter GORE-TEX® Paramount Packer Backpack 

Durable, highly water resistant, and versatile, this Porter pack is a fine option if you like flexible carry that can adapt to EDC and travel needs. The pack is made with 500D Cordura nylon, a GORE® Fabric for Bags waterproof membrane, and sealed seams to help keep the elements at bay. A rolltop closure gives you the flexibility to play with different loads, and multiple quick-access organization options keep the essentials at the ready.

HEAD PORTER x HAVEN Mil X-Pac Rucksack

The HEAD PORTER x HAVEN Mil X-Pac Rucksack salutes military inspiration while keeping the aesthetics understated enough for day-to-day urban needs. Made with lightweight yet durable and water-resistant X-Pac laminated ripstop, the bag offers a top flap and drawstring closure, along with multiple pockets and straps to help keep your gear tidy on the go.

Porter-Yoshida & Co. x James Jarvis Backpack 

A limited edition release celebrating Yoshida & Co.’s 80th anniversary, this striking pack features a print by London-based artist James Jarvis. The 24L pack includes a rolltop drawstring closure and a mix of interior and exterior organization, all brought together with expert craftsmanship.

master-piece Leather Over Backpack 

master-piece are masters at fusing street style with topnotch construction and practical design, and this pack is no exception. The bag exudes quality with its durable leather construction, partnered with distinct aesthetics and a range of useful features such as dual access options and a mix of interior and exterior pockets and attachment points.

master-piece Game Technical Nylon Backpack 

Crafted with durable 1680D ballistic nylon, this water-resistant pack will stand up to the rigours of daily use while also offering convenient access to the main compartment. Plus it gets creative with thoughtful pocket designs to help keep the contents secure.

master-piece FDMTL Daypack 

Guaranteed to draw admiring glances, this fine piece stems from a collaboration between master-piece and the denim experts at FDMTL. Combining ballistic nylon, patchwork denim and vegetable-tanned leather, the pack brings flair to your carry setup while offering handy exterior pockets and reliably durable construction.

KATSUYUKIKODAMA Backpack 

Want a pack that melds urban cool with everyday functionality? This backpack hits the mark, pairing urban-friendly styling with multiple compartments for organization and storage for up to a 15″ laptop.

Missoni Green Porter Edition Flap Backpack 

If money is no object and luxurious packs are your passion, this Missoni x Porter backpack is certainly worth checking out. A thoughtful merging of Italian style, Japanese craftsmanship and practical design, the pack features a drawstring and flap closure, a choice of pockets, and plenty of casual-chic charm.

Arc’teryx x Beams 40th Anniversary Sebring 

When Arc’teryx and Beams team up, awesomeness ensues. Case in point, this collaboration Sebring marking Beams’ 40th anniversary. A nifty blend of urban and outdoor inspiration, the pack provides a versatile design with multiple organization options and quick, fuss-free access to your gear.

B JIRUSHI YOSHIDA Foot the Coacher x Porter Backpack 

Like your packs with visual impact? This pack certainly catches the eye, but also delivers on functional features too such as a choice of top and front access, solid construction, and useful pockets and attachment points for organizing your day-to-day carry items.

F/CE. Dry Line No Seam Daypack 

Worried about the weather soaking your gear? This completely waterproof daypack has you covered with its ultrasonic welding and weatherproof fabric and zippers. The wide opening allows for easy packing and access, with pockets to keep smaller items in check. And with its low-key aesthetics this pack blends into a variety of settings, from city streets to boat trips.

Descente Allterrain x Porter Boa Backpack 

This stylish offering from Descente Allterrain and Porter exudes city chic, complemented by practical features for everyday use. Quick-access exterior pockets store smaller items within easy reach, while a laptop finds a home inside the main compartment. In addition, the pack features Boa system dials for conveniently adjusting the shoulder strap length.  

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What was the very first piece in your collection? And do you remember where and why you picked it up?

I don’t remember the first bag I purchased; I’m 46, so that was some time ago. I wouldn’t necessarily classify myself as a bag collector; I’m more of a bag user. However, I do consider myself a collector of vintage and modern steamer trunks, as well as vintage luggage. I do remember purchasing my first Goyard steamer trunk in Rome, Italy.

When did you begin to feel more than what might be called an “average obsession” for bags?

I wouldn’t call it an obsession, more of a deep appreciation for good design, and equal respect for bag brands, designers, and craftsmen. I’m not only into Incase bags, and have zero issues supporting or using other bag brands.

What do you look for? What makes a bag a must-have?

I’m drawn to bags that make intelligent use of unique or performance-driven materials, hardware, details, finishing, and an overall clean and timeless aesthetic.

“I wouldn’t call it an obsession, more of a deep appreciation for good design, and equal respect for bag brands, designers, and craftsmen.”

Do you have a certain fetish? A brand crush?

I’m a huge fan and supporter of both Acronym and visvim. I’ve been buying their apparel, footwear, outerwear, and bags since the inception of both brands. I live in California, and have a closet full of bad weather jackets. My wife constantly reminds me that it never rains here, but when it does, I’m beyond prepared.

Was there anything from the past that you hesitated on that you would kill to have now?

I wish I had purchased more KAWS, Bathing Ape and Louis Vuitton collaborative bags, all highly collectable.

How many bags do you have in your quiver? Can you run us through an itemized list?

I probably have 30-40 bags in rotation, and more trunks than I know what to do with. I pulled a few select pieces* for this story.

How do you store your collection?

I don’t have a specific area. I keep my bags in closets throughout my home, and make a point of using my bags. They were designed to serve a purpose, and I let them do their jobs. I’m also not a packaging or hangtag saver.

“[I] make a point of using my bags. They were designed to serve a purpose, and I let them do their jobs.”

Can you tell us a favorite carry memory? Or a memory garnered whilst donning a particular piece?

I love my matching travel duffels. They were wedding gifts from a close friend. The bags were made by another friend who designs, crafts, and manufactures bags/accessories. He’s one of the most recognized brands within the high-end luxury and vintage watch markets. His name is Jean Paul Menicucci, located in Firenze, Italy.

If your house was burning down and you only had enough time to grab one bag, which one would it be and why?

My vintage Gucci (wild Boar hide) carry-on. I searched for this piece for a number of years, not sure I’m going to find another in the same condition.

What’s next on the wish list?

More investment grade Goyard steamer trunks. I love the stories each one tells.

*List of bags:

Vintage Louis Vuitton Steamers (early 1970’s) & Modern Day Murakami x Louis Vuitton “Monogramouflage” Duffel (2008)

Vertical: Vintage Goyard Trunk (early 1920’s), bottom: Vintage Goyard Trunk (early 1900’s), white: Modern Goyard Trunk

Vintage Goyard Trunk (early 1900’s)

Vintage Louis Vuitton Steamers

visvim Backpacks (left: Red, center: KAWS, right: Olive)

Acronym Messenger Bag, 3rd Arm, and Concealable MB Air + iPhone Sling

Original Bathing Ape Backpack

La Martina Duffel [Editor’s Note: this bag is a reflection of Tony’s and his wife’s passion for horses and the equestrian lifestyle]

Gucci Boar Hide Overnight Bag (1970’s)

KILLSPENCER Weekender & Daypack

Parabellum Medicine Man Duffel & MacBook Sleeve

Custom his & hers Jean Paul Menicucci Weekenders

RTH Los Angeles Tote Bag

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With the holiday season right around the corner, we thought our readers could use some help with last minute shopping ideas for that special Carry fan in your lives. Though we have a handful of Buyer’s Guides, this is a more focused list with just two bags per category. We’ll present an “affordable” option as well as a more luxurious option for those who want to splurge.  You may find some repeats in our guides or even mentions of bags we’ve covered on Facebook or in Road Tests, but all that means is we really, really dig them. Let’s get started.

Work Messengers

Unless your job literally is working as a bike messenger, it’s unlikely that the same casual messenger bags that work on the bike do that well once you’re off it and in the boardroom.

Jack Spade Messenger

For a basic no frills bag, we’ll have to go with something from Jack Spade. Their products are always very well designed with clean lines and no frills. This bag is straightforward and functional and comes in different materials and colors, though in this case we definitely recommend black. You can find the nylon canvas day bag version here for $175.

Property Of … Tommy Work Bag

We have been following this brand for a while and their Tommy Work Bag is a real treat. The bag’s waxed cotton exterior makes it seem a little less stuffy while the leather straps and accents keep things professional. You can pick it up for about $300 USD (Hint: check out Gilt and other flash sale sites as they often feature Property Of …).

Casual Backpacks

This is probably my favorite category because it’s the type of bag I use most often. It’s perfect for using around the city, taking to work or school, or even on short trips. The emphasis is on comfort, durability, and of course price.

Topo Designs Daypack

Let’s get things started off right. This recommendation should come as no surprise to readers of this site. We are big fans of this company out of Colorado. They make all their bags in their LEED certified facility and quite frankly we think they offer a great product for a very reasonable price point. I still use the Daypack (Generation 1) as my go-to bag each day; in fact, there’s one sitting by my feet as I type this. If you haven’t had the chance, check out our review here. You can pick up the Daypack here.

visvim Backpack

For a nicer pack that is still considered casual, we would be remiss to go with anything but a visvim. This cult brand out of Japan makes some of the nicest bags we’ve ever seen and the 20L size is just perfect for a daypack. There are plenty of models and collaborations to choose from but one you can check out is the SOPHNET x visvim 2012 FW Collection. You can find it direct from visvim. Just a word of caution: get ready for sticker shock.

Weekenders

I don’t travel much but when I do it’s usually just for two nights. If you find yourself with a similar setup, a weekender is perfect for you. While bigger is usually better, there’s something sleeker and more refined about just hopping in the car and throwing a small bag in the backseat.

Everlane Weekender

Our pick for the more affordable travel bag is the weekender from Everlane. The bag features dual leather handles, a canvas body, and an internal zipper pocket for small items like keys or contact lens cases. It’s currently available in six colors and comes in at under $100; a true bargain. You can buy it direct from Everlane.

KILLSPENCER Weekender 2.0

For something more refined, look no further than this bag from our favorite Carry shop out of Los Angeles. With a choice of fabrics ranging from Nubuck leather to waxed cotton canvas, there’s a style to fit everyone’s personality. The size is just right for a 2-3 day trip and the attention to detail (e.g. Riri zippers from Switzerland) make this a bag that will last a lifetime. You can find it here for $475 in waxed cotton canvas.

Duffel Bags

Topo Designs Duffel

What can we say? We love this company. Their duffel bag is no exception, sporting a hefty 42L in capacity and coming in five colors. We are partial to the black or navy. We especially like the pull tabs in contrasting colors and the classy use of leather on the handles and sides. You can pick one up directly from Topo for just $129.

Porter 2Way Boston

One of a handful of “grail” companies out of Japan, Porter usually finds a way into any list we can dream up. The 2Way Boston duffel is gorgeous in its simplicity with a craftsmanship that is hard to beat. You can pick one up for $385.

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