Are you an adventurous soul who craves the open road and the thrill of exploring new places? Do you value freedom and flexibility when traveling? If so, a leather travel backpack may be the perfect companion for your journeys.

A leather travel backpack is a versatile and durable option for carrying your belongings while on the go. Whether you're backpacking through Europe, exploring the mountains, or simply commuting to work, a leather backpack can provide the functionality and style you need.

But with so many types of leather bags in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. In this article, we'll cover the different types of leather used in travel backpacks, the key features to consider when selecting a backpack, and our top picks for the best leather travel backpacks of 2023.

So pack your leather travel bag, buckle up, and let's dive into the world of leather travel backpacks.

What is a Leather Travel Backpack?

If you're planning a trip, a leather travel backpack is a great investment. They offer durability and a stylish look and provide plenty of space to pack all of your essential items. Plus, the adjustable straps make it comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.

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Benefits of Leather Backpacks for Travel

You'll love the durability and leather backpack styles for your travels. Unlike other materials that easily tear or wear out over time, leather backpacks are built to last. They can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use and even rough handling during travels.

The leather material also ages well, giving your backpack a unique and timeless look that never goes out of style. Aside from their durability, leather backpacks also offer a number of benefits that make them ideal for travel.

They have enough space to carry all your essentials, from clothes and shoes, to toiletries and gadgets. Leather backpacks also have separate compartments and pockets, allowing you to organize your items for easy access. And because they're hands-free, you can move around freely without feeling weighed down by a heavy bag.

Overall, leather backpacks are a stylish and practical choice for travelers who value both functionality and fashion.

Types of Leather Used in Travel Backpacks

When it comes to choosing a leather travel backpack, there are different types of leather to consider. Full-grain leather is the highest quality kind of leather, with a natural surface that ages beautifully.

Top-grain leather is also a high-quality option, with a smoother surface that is more resistant to wear and tear. Genuine leather is made from the lower layers of the hide and is a more affordable option. Faux or synthetic materials are not made from animal hide, but can still provide a similar look and feel.

Cow skin leather is a durable and versatile option that is often used in travel backpacks.

Full-Grain Leather

Full-grain leather is the perfect material for a long-lasting and stylish travel backpack. It's the highest quality of leather, made from the top layer of the animal hide. This means it's the most durable and can withstand wear and tear. The leather is left in its natural state, so it retains its unique texture and markings. This gives each backpack a distinct and individual character.

Full-grain leather is also water-resistant, which is crucial for a travel backpack exposed to different weather conditions. Apart from its durability and water resistance, full-grain leather is known for its aging process. As it's exposed to sunlight, moisture, and natural oils from the skin, it develops a patina that adds depth and richness to the leather.

This aging process makes the backpack more beautiful and valuable over time. Full-grain leather is easy to maintain, and a simple cleaning routine can keep it looking fresh and new. With its timeless style and unmatched durability, a full-grain leather travel backpack can be your perfect companion for any adventure. It provides you with the freedom to explore without worrying about the wear and tear of your backpack.

Top-Grain Leather

Top-grain leather is the second-highest grade of leather and is often used in high-end fashion items. This type of leather is created by sanding off the top layer of the hide, which removes any imperfections and leaves behind a smooth and consistent surface.

Top-grain leather is known for its durability, strength, and resistance to wear and tear. It also has a natural shine and a luxurious feel that makes it a popular choice for leather travel backpacks.

One of the benefits of top-grain leather is that it's more affordable than full-grain leather, while still offering many of the same qualities. It's also easier to work with and can be dyed in a variety of beautiful colors and finishes.

However, top-grain leather is not as breathable as full-grain leather and may not develop the same patina over time.

Overall, if you're looking for a leather travel backpack that's both stylish and durable, top-grain leather is a great option to consider.

Genuine Leather

If you're looking for a more affordable option for your leather travel backpack, genuine leather might be the way to go. Genuine leather is made from the second layer of a hide, which is then treated with chemicals to make it durable and long-lasting.

The leather is still high-quality, but not as luxurious as top-grain leather, making it a more budget-friendly option. Genuine leather is also known for its unique character and natural variations, giving each backpack a one-of-a-kind look.

The leather is also breathable and flexible, which makes it easy to pack and carry your travel essentials. Plus, genuine classic leather backpacks are a great investment because they can withstand years of use without showing signs of wear and tear.

So, if you're looking for a stylish and functional travel backpack that won't break the bank, consider a genuine leather option.

Faux or Synthetic Leather

Now that you know all about genuine leather, let's talk about its synthetic counterpart. Faux or synthetic leather has become increasingly popular over the years due to its affordability and animal-friendly nature.

It's made from a variety of materials, including plastic, rubber, and polyurethane, and can mimic the look and feel of real leather. One of the advantages of choosing a faux leather travel backpack is that it is generally more durable and less prone to cracking or fading than genuine leather.

Additionally, it's easier to clean and maintain, as it doesn't require any special treatments or conditioning. However, it's important to note that not all fake leather is created equal, and some lower quality materials may not hold up as well over time.

When choosing a faux leather backpack, be sure to look for high-quality materials and construction to ensure that it will last for many adventures to come.

Cowhide Leather

Indulge in the luxurious texture and durability of cowhide leather that'll elevate your style and withstand the test of time.

Cowhide leather is a top choice for leather travel backpacks due to its strength, thickness, and natural texture that gives it a unique look. It also has a natural resistance to water and dirt, making it easy to maintain and perfect for adventurous souls who want a backpack that can withstand the rigors of travel.

Cowhide leather is versatile, with an array of colors and finishes to choose from. It can be left untreated for a natural look or treated with oils and waxes for a more polished finish. The leather also develops a patina over time, giving it a character and personality that reflects the wearer's experiences.

So, if you're looking for a leather travel backpack that'll not only look great but also last for years to come, cowhide leather is the way to go.

Features to Consider When Choosing a Leather Travel Backpack

When choosing a leather travel backpack, consider the size and capacity that will suit your needs. Look for comfortability features such as padded straps and back panels to ensure a comfortable fit for extended periods of wear. Additionally, check for pockets and compartments to organize and store your belongings. Look for a padded laptop pocket or roomy compartments to protect your electronics. Adjustable straps and handles also add versatility to your backpack, allowing for different carrying options.

Size and Capacity

With its spacious interior and ample pockets, our leather travel backpack comfortably accommodates all your essentials for any adventure. The size and capacity of a travel backpack is an important factors to consider when choosing one. You want to make sure it's big enough to hold everything you need, but not so big that it becomes cumbersome to carry around.

Our leather travel backpack comes in a variety of sizes, from small daypacks to larger backpacks that can hold multiple days' worth of gear. It's important to choose the perfect size for your specific needs.

If you're planning a short day trip, a smaller backpack may suffice. However, if you're planning a longer trip, you'll want a larger backpack that can hold all of your essentials, including clothing, toiletries, and any other items you may need.

Our leather travel backpacks have a wide range of sizes and capacities, so you can find the perfect one for your needs and have the freedom to explore with ease.

Comfortability Features

You'll love how comfortable our leather travel backpack feels on your back. Thanks to its padded straps and breathable mesh back panel, you can wear the backpack for longer periods without feeling fatigued. The padded straps are adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your body. They distribute the weight of the backpack evenly across your shoulders, preventing any strain or discomfort. The breathable mesh back panel keeps your back cool and dry, so you don't have to worry about sweating through your shirt.

In addition to the padded straps and breathable mesh back panel, our leather travel backpack also features a padded handle for easy carrying. The handle is located on the top of the backpack, making it easy to grab and go. The backpack also has a chest strap that helps distribute the weight even further, reducing strain on your shoulders and back. Whether you're exploring a new city or hiking through the wilderness, our leather travel backpack is designed to keep you comfortable and free to enjoy your adventure.

Pockets and Compartments

Loaded with various pockets and zippered compartments, this bag is perfect for anyone who wants to stay organized while on the go. Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, having a backpack with multiple storage options is essential.

Most leather travel backpacks feature a main compartment for larger items like clothing or shoes, as well as smaller pockets for items like passports, wallets, and electronics. Some backpacks even have designated pockets for water bottles or umbrellas, making it easy to access them when you need them the most.

Aside from keeping your belongings organized, having multiple pockets and plenty of compartments also adds an extra layer of security. With everything in its place, you can easily keep track of your belongings and avoid losing them. Plus, having separate pockets for important items like passports or wallets can make it harder for pickpockets to steal from you.

Overall, choosing a leather travel backpack with plenty of pockets and compartments is a wise investment for anyone who values organization and security while on the go.

Laptop Sleeve or Compartment

Don't worry about finding a separate padded laptop sleeve or compartment because this leather travel backpack has got you covered. It's equipped with a dedicated laptop sleeve or compartment, which is usually padded to protect your laptop from bumps and scratches. Plus, it's conveniently located in the backpack to give you easy access to your laptop whenever you need it.

A laptop sleeve or compartment is a must-have feature for anyone who needs to carry their laptop with them on the go. With this feature, you can rest easy knowing that your laptop is safe and secure while you're traveling. So, whether you're a student who needs to carry your laptop to class or a professional who needs to bring their laptop to meetings, a leather travel backpack with a laptop sleeve or compartment is the perfect solution for your needs.

Adjustable Straps and Handles

Featuring adjustable straps and handles, this versatile bag is perfect for anyone on the go. The straps can be easily adjusted to fit your body comfortably, making it easy to carry the bag for long periods of time without experiencing any discomfort.

Additionally, the handles on the top and sides of the bag provide additional carrying options, allowing you to switch up your grip and relieve pressure on your shoulders. The adjustable straps and handles also make this bag ideal for travel.

You can easily slip it onto your back and maneuver through crowded airports or train stations without worrying about the bag weighing you down. And if you need to quickly grab your bag from an overhead compartment or off the baggage carousel, the sturdy handles make it easy to do so.

Overall, the adjustable straps and handles give you the freedom to travel comfortably and with ease.

Water Bottle Holders/Pockets

Now that you know about the adjustable straps and handles of leather travel backpacks, let's dive into another important feature: water bottle pockets.

When traveling, it's essential to stay hydrated, and having a designated spot for your water bottle can make all the difference. With a water bottle holder/pocket, you can easily access your drink without having to rummage through your backpack. Plus, it keeps your water bottle upright and prevents it from spilling or leaking.

Leather travel backpacks typically have one or two water bottle holders/pockets located on the sides of the backpack. These holders/pockets are designed to fit a variety of water bottle sizes, so you don't have to worry about your bottle not fitting. Some leather travel backpacks also have insulated pockets, which keep your drink cool for longer periods.

Overall, having a water bottle holder/pocket in your leather travel backpack is a convenient and practical feature that you'll appreciate during your travels.

2023's Top Leather Backpacks

If you're looking for a top-quality handmade leather backpack for your travels, you can't go wrong with the Hagen, Asmund, or Helka Backpacks. These three options are popular choices among travelers for their durability, spaciousness, and versatile design.

In addition, the Shelby Backpack and Olaf Rucksack are also worth considering for their unique features and high-quality materials.

The Hagen Backpack

You'll appreciate the vintage charm and durability of the Hagen Backpack, crafted from genuine cowhide leather and designed to hold up to 35 liters of your travel essentials. This antique-style backpack is perfect for the adventurous spirit. It features a large main compartment and easy-access pockets, providing ample space for your laptop, books, clothes, and other belongings.

You can carry the Hagen Backpack comfortably with the leather-lined grab handle or the adjustable shoulder straps, making it a versatile choice for those on the go. The backpack is made from Crazy Horse Leather, a type of full-grain leather that is highly resistant to water and other liquids, making it perfect for outdoor travel. The wax applied to its surface gives it a unique, aged look and feel, while retaining its toughness and strength.

The backpack also features a 14-inch laptop compartment, making it a great choice for students or professionals who need to carry their laptops around. With its vintage charm and durability, the Hagen Backpack is a must-have for anyone who wants to travel in style and comfort.

Product Specs:

• Material: Genuine cowhide leather
• Style: Antique/vintage
• Capacity: 20-35 liters
• Features: Large main compartment, two zipped exterior pockets, single easy-access front pocket
• Carrying options: Leather-lined comfortable grab handle, adjustable shoulder straps
• What fits: 14-inch laptop compartment
• Crazy Horse Leather: Made by applying wax to full grain leather surface, looks and feels aged while retaining toughness
• Advantages of Crazy Horse Leather: Durable, strong, unique, highly resistant to water and other liquids
• Product dimensions: 14.6 X 12.2 X 5.1 (37x 31cm x 13cm)

Pros:

• Vintage charm and amazing design
• Ample space for travel essentials
• Highly resistant to water and other liquids

Cons:

• May be too heavy for some users
• Could be expensive for some budgets
• May require special care and maintenance

The Asmund Backpack

Get ready to explore with the vintage-inspired Asmund Backpack, perfect for carrying all your essentials in style. Made with the same high-quality premium leather as the Hagen Backpack, the Asmund features a sleek design with a more compact size. Don't let the smaller size fool you, as this backpack can still hold all your necessities with its 20-liter capacity.

The large main compartment is perfect for your laptop, while the two exterior pockets provide easy access to smaller precious items. The front pocket is also easily accessible, making it a great place to store your phone or wallet. The leather-lined comfortable grab handle and comfortable shoulder straps make this backpack easy to carry, whether you're exploring a new city or daily commute to work.

The Asmund Backpack is also made with Crazy Horse Leather, giving it a unique vintage look that will only get better with age. Its highly resistant to water and other liquids, making it durable and strong enough to withstand any adventure. Plus, with free shipping on orders over $100 and a 30-day return policy, you can feel confident in your purchase of the Asmund Backpack from Steel Horse Leather Co.

Product Specs:

• Name: The Asmund Backpack | Vintage Leather Backpack
• Price: $199.00-$239.00
• Material: Genuine cowhide leather
• Dimensions: 15.7 X 11.8 X 4.7 (40cm x 30cm x 12cm)
• Capacity: 20 liters
• Features: Large main compartment, 2 zipped exterior pockets, single easy-access front pocket, leather-lined comfortable grab handle, adjustable shoulder straps
• What Fits: 13' Size - Laptop Compartment
• Crazy Horse Leather: made by applying wax to full grain leather surface, looks and feels aged while retaining toughness, becomes more unique with use

Pros:

• Compact size, but still spacious with a 20-liter capacity
• Made with high-quality cowhide leather and Crazy Horse Leather for durability and unique style
• Comfortable to carry with leather-lined grab handle and adjustable shoulder straps
• Free shipping on orders over $100 and 30-day return policy for added convenience

Cons:

• Limited space for larger items due to the compact size
• Laptop compartment only fits up to a 13' laptop, which may not be suitable for those with larger laptops
• Front pocket may not provide enough security for valuable items as it is easily accessible.

The Helka Backpack

Experience the ultimate in style and functionality with the Helka Backpack, perfect for your daily adventures. Made with high-quality genuine vintage leather, this backpack is suitable for school, work, or outdoor trips. The all-natural material creates a unique and timeless look, while the crazy horse leather ensures durability for years to come.

The Helka Backpack features a front zipper pocket and two external pockets, providing easy access to your essentials. The main compartment is spacious enough to fit a laptop up to 14 inches in size, and has a slip pocket for papers.

The leather-lined comfortable grab handle and ergonomically-designed adjustable straps make carrying this backpack a breeze. With a capacity of 20-35 liters, you can easily pack all your daily essentials without feeling weighed down. Choose between two classic colors - dark brown and brown - to suit your personal style.

Product Specs:

• Genuine Vintage Leather Backpack
• Suitable for school, work, or outdoor trips
• Made with crazy horse leather for durability
• Front zippered pocket and two exterior side pockets
• Main compartment suitable for a laptop and has a slip pocket for papers
• Leather-lined comfortable grab handle and ergonomically-designed adjustable straps
• Can fit laptops up to 14 inches in size
• Available in two colors: dark brown and brown
• Priced at $199.00
• Weighs 3.3 lbs (1.5 kg) and has a capacity of 20-35 liters
• Made to order, shipping times may vary
• Returns accepted within 30 days if unused and in the same condition as received
• Payment methods accepted: Credit/Debit cards, Paypal, and Google Pay

Pros:

• Made with high-quality genuine vintage leather
• All-natural material creates a unique and timeless look
• Crazy horse leather ensures durability for years to come
• The Front zippered pocket and two exterior side pockets provide easy access to essentials
• Leather-lined comfortable grab handle and ergonomically designed adjustable straps make carrying this backpack a breeze
• Can fit laptops up to 14 inches in size
• Available in two classic colors

Cons:

• Priced at $199.00, may be considered expensive for some
• Made to order, shipping times may vary
• Weighs 3.3 lbs (1.5 kg), may feel heavy for some users

The Shelby Backpack

Looking for a stylish and durable backpack that's perfect for everyday use? Check out the Shelby Backpack! It's handmade with crazy horse leather that is known for its durability and long-lasting quality.

The backpack features a spacious 17-inch laptop compartment, padded to keep your laptop and valuables safe and secure, and multiple pockets for all your essentials. The exterior pockets are perfect for storing items you need to access quickly, while the adjustable shoulder straps ensure that the backpack is comfortable to wear, no matter how much you're carrying. The leather-lined grab handle adds a touch of class to the backpack, and the overall design is both functional and stylish.

The Shelby Backpack is perfect for professionals who are always on the go, as well as students who need a reliable backpack to carry their books and laptop. Plus, with its timeless design, the backpack is sure to look great for years to come.

Product Specs:

• Material: Crazy horse leather
• Weight: Lightweight
• Laptop compartment: 17 inches
• Pockets: Exterior pockets and multiple pockets
• Straps: Adjustable shoulder straps and leather-lined grab handle

Pros:

• Handmade with durable crazy horse leather
• Spacious 17-inch laptop compartment
• Multiple pockets for all your essentials
• Stylish and timeless design

Cons:

• Price may be a bit high for some budgets
• Limited reviews available compared to other beautiful products on the website
• The leather may require specific care and maintenance to keep it looking its best.

The Olaf Rucksack

You'll love the vintage style and impressive durability of The Olaf Rucksack, a handmade backpack that is perfect for your travels. The backpack features high-quality crazy horse leather and polyester lining, making it both stylish and durable. The leather is treated with wax to look and feel aged while retaining its toughness, making it highly resistant to water and other liquids.

This rucksack has a spacious main compartment and two prominent front pockets that provide lots of storage space for your essentials. The backpack also has comfortable leather straps with smaller overlays, an adjustable shoulder strap, and a grab handle for easy carrying. It can fit devices up to 14 inches, making it perfect for carrying laptops and tablets. The backpack has a capacity of 20-35 liters, making it the ideal size for all your travel needs.

Product Specs:

• Material: high-quality crazy horse leather and polyester lining
• Handmade: 100%
• Dimensions: 15 x 11 x 4 (38cm x 28cm x 10cm)
• Weight: 2.65 lbs (1.2 kg)
• Capacity: 20-35 liters
• Features: Two front pockets, large main compartment, leather straps with smaller overlays, comfortable grab handle, adjustable shoulder straps, fits devices up to 14 inches

Pros:

• Highly durable and strong
• Unique vintage style
• Highly resistant to water and other liquids
• Ages beautifully over time

Cons:

• Higher price point than some other backpacks
• May take time to break in the leather
• Capacity may be too small for longer trips

Frequently Asked Questions

Are leather travel backpacks suitable for long-term travel or only for short trips?

If you're planning on embarking on a long-term travel adventure, you'll want to choose a backpack that is durable, comfortable, and spacious enough to hold all of your essentials. Regardless of the material, your backpack should be able to withstand the wear and tear of constant use and the weight of your belongings.

While leather travel backpacks can certainly be a stylish and practical option, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and needs. Some travelers may prefer the durability and classic look of leather, while others may opt for a lighter and alternative more affordable price.

Consider factors such as the climate and terrain of your destination, the length of your trip, and how much you'll need to carry with you before making your final decision.

Can leather travel backpacks be used as carry-on luggage on flights?

When it comes to carry-on luggage for flights, many airlines have specific size and weight restrictions that must be adhered to.

While leather travel backpacks can certainly be used as carry-on luggage, it's important to ensure that they meet the airline's requirements. Before your flight, be sure to check the airline's website or call their customer service line to confirm the maximum dimensions and weight allowed for carry-on bags.

Keep in mind that adorable leather backpacks can be heavier than other materials, so you'll want to pack wisely to avoid exceeding weight limits.

As long as your leather travel backpack meets the airline's requirements, it can make for a stylish and practical carry-on option for your next flight.

How do you properly care for and maintain a leather travel backpack?

To properly care for and maintain leather goods, it's important to clean them regularly with a soft cloth and a mild soap solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the leather.

After cleaning, apply a leather conditioner to help keep the leather supple and prevent cracking. Store leather items in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

It's also important to avoid exposing leather to water or excessive moisture, which can cause damage or discoloration. With proper care, your leather travel backpack can last for years and continue to look great on all your adventures.

So take care of it well and enjoy the freedom to travel with style and comfort.

Are there any eco-friendly or sustainable options for leather travel backpacks?

If you're looking for eco-friendly and sustainable options when it comes to backpacks, there are several available.

One option is to consider backpacks made from recycled materials, such as recycled plastic bottles or recycled fabrics.

Another option is to look for backpacks made from natural materials, such as canvas or hemp. These materials are sustainable and biodegradable, making them a great choice for those who are environmentally conscious.

Additionally, some companies offer backpacks made from leather alternatives, such as vegan leather or cork leather. These materials mimic the look and feel of traditional leather but are cruelty-free and more sustainable.

When it comes to leather travel backpacks, it's important to consider the impact of your purchase on the environment and to opt for more sustainable options whenever possible.

Is it possible to customize or personalize a leather travel backpack?

Yes, it's possible to customize or personalize a travel backpack to make it uniquely your own.

Many companies offer customization options, such as adding initials or choosing a variety of colors and materials for certain parts of the backpack. Some companies even allow you to design your own backpack from scratch, choosing everything from the size and shape to the number and placement of mesh pockets.

Personalizing your backpack is a great way to make it stand out from others, while still maintaining its functionality. Whether you want to add a pop of color or make a statement with a bold design, there are customization options available to suit your needs and style.

So go ahead and let your creativity run wild – your backpack is waiting for its own unique touch!

Conclusion

So there you have it, a comprehensive guide to leather travel backpacks. By now, you should have a good understanding of what a leather travel backpack is, the types of leather commonly used in their production, and the key features to look out for when choosing one.

Remember, when shopping for a leather travel backpack, it's important to consider your individual needs and preferences. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or embarking on a longer adventure, a good quality leather travel backpack can be a reliable and stylish companion.

So don't hesitate to invest in one that suits your unique style and travel needs, and enjoy the journey!