Types of Leather Travel Bags: A Guide to the Different Styles and Features

23 June, 2023 By Steel Horse Leather In The Journal

Are you a traveler at heart, always looking for your next adventure? Do you value style and functionality when it comes to your travel accessories? Look no further than leather travel bags.

These bags are not only durable and practical, but they also exude a sense of sophistication and elegance that is unmatched by other materials.

Leather travel bags come in a variety of styles and types, each with its own unique features and benefits. From leather backpacks to leather duffel bags to leather suitcases, there is a leather travel bag to fit every traveler's needs.

Not to mention, the different types of leather used in these bags give each one a distinct look and feel, making them as much a fashion statement as they are a practical travel accessory.

So, whether you're a frequent business traveler or a backpacker exploring the world, there is a leather travel bag out there that is perfect for you.

What is Leather Travel Bag?

You deserve the best when it comes to traveling, and that's why a leather travel bag is the way to go. They not only look stylish and sophisticated, but they also offer durability and longevity, making them a worthy investment.

From duffel bags to backpacks, there are various types of bags that cater to your specific needs and preferences.

Benefits of Leather Travel Bags

Now, you're probably wondering why premium leather travel bags are so popular. Well, let me tell you about the many benefits they offer.

Firstly, leather travel bags have numerous advantages in terms of their durability. These bags are made to withstand the wear and tear of travel, allowing you to use them for years without worrying about damage or wear.

Additionally, leather travel bags are incredibly stylish and fashionable, making them a must-have accessory for anyone who wants to look their best while on the move.

Furthermore, leather travel bags offer convenience when packing for your trip. They have spacious separate compartments that make it easy to organize your belongings, ensuring that you have everything you need at your fingertips.

Leather travel bags are also low maintenance, and with proper care, they can last a long time. Lastly, they are comfortable to carry, and the straps are designed to distribute the weight evenly, making them easy to carry around.

With all these benefits, it's no wonder that leather travel bags are a popular choice for people who love to travel. Speaking of which, let's talk about the popular types of leather used in travel bags.

Types of Leathers Used in Travel Bags

So you're looking for a leather travel bag? Well, there are a few types of leather to consider.

Full-grain leather is the highest quality and most durable, while top-grain leather has a more polished appearance.

Genuine leather is a lower-quality option, while split leather is made from the bottom layer of the hide. Keep in mind that high-quality leather will last longer and look better over time.

Full-Grain Leather

When choosing a travel bag, consider opting for full-grain leather as it provides durability and a timeless aesthetic. Full-grain leather is considered the highest quality leather due to its natural tanning process that retains the grain and imperfections of the animal hide.

This type of leather is highly durable and can last for decades with proper maintenance, making it a great investment for frequent travelers. While full-grain leather may come with a higher price range compared to other types of leather, its durability and quality make it a worthwhile investment.

Additionally, with time and use, full-grain leather develops a unique patina over time that adds character and personality to the bag. When properly cared for, full-grain leather can last a lifetime, making it a sustainable and environmentally friendly choice for those who desire to live a more minimalistic lifestyle.

Moving on to the next subtopic, let's explore the benefits of top-grain leather.

Top-Grain Leather

If you're looking for leather that's both durable and has an affordable price, then top-grain leather may be the perfect option for you. This type of leather is made from the outermost layer of the hide, which is sanded down to remove any imperfections. This results in a smooth and even surface that's perfect for dyeing and finishing.

Top-grain leather is known for its durability and quality, making it a popular choice for travel bags. With proper care and maintenance, it can last for years without showing any signs of wear and tear. When it comes to color options, top-grain leather is available in a variety of shades, from classic brown and black to bold and vibrant hues.

Popular brands that offer top-grain leather travel bags include Tumi, Samsonite, and Coach. To keep your bag looking its best, it's important to follow a few maintenance tips. Regularly clean it with a damp cloth and treat it with a leather conditioner to keep it moisturized. With its durability and timeless style, top-grain leather is a great choice for any traveler.

Moving onto the next section about 'genuine leather', you'll find that this type of leather has its own unique characteristics and qualities.

Genuine Leather

Genuine leather is a natural material that exudes a classic and elegant look, perfect for those who want a timeless accessory. It's made from the second layer of the hide and is considered to be of lower quality than top-grain leather. However, it's still a durable material that can withstand wear and tear.

The tanning process used for genuine leather involves treating the hide with chemicals to remove any impurities and give it a uniform color. Leather care is important for maintaining the quality and durability of the material. There are various leather care products available in the market, from conditioners to protectants, that can help prolong the lifespan of your genuine leather travel bag.

Additionally, genuine leather comes in a variety of color options, ranging from natural brown colors to dyed blacks, making it easy to find a bag that suits your style.

Moving on to the next subtopic, let's talk about split leather.

Split Leather

You may have heard of split leather before - it's also known as suede and has a soft, velvety texture that feels like butter. This type of leather is made from the innermost layer of animal hides, which is then split into two layers.

One layer will be used to make full-grain leather, while the other is sanded and buffed to create the suede texture that we all know and love. The production process of split leather is quite simple, making it a more affordable option than full-grain leather.

Despite being a less expensive option, split leather still has its advantages. It is more lightweight than full-grain leather, which makes it the perfect material for travel bags. This type of leather is also quite durable, even though it's not as strong as full-grain leather.

With proper care, split leather can last for years without showing any significant wear and tear. However, if you're looking for a high-quality leather travel bag that can withstand the test of time, you may want to consider investing in full-grain leather.

High-Quality Leather

When you touch high-quality leather, you can feel the difference in the texture and see the richness of the color. The leather quality is determined by the grade of the leather, which ranges from the highest grade (full-grain leather) to the lowest grade (genuine leather). Full-grain leather is the most durable and highest quality leather available, while genuine leather is the least durable and lowest quality.

Taking good care of your leather travel bag is essential to maintain its quality and durability. Proper leather care includes cleaning, conditioning, and protecting the leather from water and sunlight. The type of leather you choose for your travel bag is also crucial. Different leather types have unique characteristics that make them suitable for different purposes.

For instance, top-grain leather is known for its smooth surface, while suede leather has a soft and luxurious feel. Your choice of leather type depends on your preference and the intended use of the travel bag. With high-quality leather, you can be sure that your travel bag will last for years and maintain its stylish appearance.

Now, let's explore the different styles of leather travel bags available.

Different Styles of Leather Travel Bags

Looking for a stylish and functional travel bag? Let's talk about the different styles of leather travel bags you can choose from.

Whether you need a spacious duffel bag for a weekend getaway, a classic backpack for your daily commute, or a professional-looking briefcase for business trips, there's a leather bag that's perfect for you.

Don't forget about messenger bags and carry-on bags too – they're both versatile options that can easily adapt to your travel needs.

Duffel Bag

If you're in need of a reliable and stylish travel companion, a stylish duffel bag is the perfect choice. Duffel bags are great alternatives to backpacks because they offer more space and a more traditional look. Choosing a duffel bag over a backpack means you'll have more space to pack your essentials without feeling weighed down.

Plus, duffel bags come in many different sizes and styles, so you can choose the one that suits your needs best. When it comes to leather duffel features, look for one that has detachable shoulder straps, sturdy handles, and multiple dedicated pockets for organization.

A quality leather duffle bag is perfect for overnight stays, whether you're headed to the beach or the mountains. And, because it's made of natural leather, it will only get better with age. With its timeless style and practicality, a luxury leather duffle bag is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to travel in style.

Now, let's move on to the next section about backpacks, which are another popular option for travel.

Backpack

Backpacks are versatile and practical accessories that can be used for a variety of purposes, including travel. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but they all share some common features.

One of the most important features to look for in a travel backpack is durability. You want a backpack that can withstand the wear and tear of travel, whether you're taking it on a weekend overnight trip or a month-long backpacking adventure. Look for backpacks made from high-quality materials that can withstand the elements and rough handling.

Another important feature to consider when choosing a travel backpack is design. You want a backpack that is both functional and stylish. Look for backpacks with multiple compartments and pockets to help you stay organized on the go. Comfort is also key when it comes to backpacks for travel. Look for backpacks with padded straps and back panels to help distribute weight evenly and reduce strain on your shoulders and back.

And of course, price is always a consideration. You can find backpacks for travel at a range of price points, so consider your budget when choosing the right backpack for your needs.

When it comes to choosing the right type of leather travel bag, backpacks are just one option. Another popular choice is the briefcase, which offers a more professional look for business travelers.

Briefcase

Carrying a sleek and stylish briefcase during business trips can make you feel confident and professional. There are many types of leather briefcases available on the market today, each with its own unique style and size.

From classic black leather to modern brown distressed leather, there is a briefcase-style that'll suit your needs and personality. When choosing a leather briefcase, it's important to consider the perfect size and materials used.

Some briefcases are designed to hold laptops and other electronic devices, while others are more suited for papers and documents. Additionally, pay attention to the materials used in the construction of the briefcase, as that'll affect its durability and longevity.

Some popular leather briefcase brands include Saddleback Leather, Filson, and Tumi. Proper care is also important to maintain the quality and look of your leather briefcase. Regularly clean and condition the leather to keep it looking its best.

Now, let's move on to the next type of leather bag - the messenger bag.

Messenger Bag

You're going to love the versatility and convenience of a leather messenger bag - it's like having your very own portable office!

The messenger bag design is perfect for those who want to have quick access to their belongings while on the go. The leather messenger bag's durability is unbeatable and can withstand the daily wear and tear of commuting or traveling.

Not only is the messenger bag stylish, but it also has a great storage capacity. You can easily fit your laptop, tablet, phone, and other essentials in multiple-compartment pockets. The adjustable strap provides messenger bag comfort, allowing you to wear it for long periods without any discomfort.

With a leather messenger bag, you'll have everything you need at your fingertips.

Now, let's dive into the next section and explore the benefits of a carry-on bag.

Carry-On Bag

Get ready to experience the convenience and freedom of a carry-on bag – it's the perfect solution for hassle-free travel! With its functional design and durable material, you can pack everything you need without worrying about damaging your belongings.

Plus, with stylish options available, you can travel in style and make a statement wherever you go.

When packing for your trip, keep in mind airline regulations for carry-on bags. Make sure your bag meets the size and weight requirements to avoid any issues at the airport. It's also a good idea to pack efficiently and use packing cubes or compression bags to maximize space.

With a carry-on bag, you can easily maneuver through the airport and avoid the hassle of checking in your leather luggage.

Now, let's move on to the best travel bags to buy and continue your journey in style.

The Best Travel Bags to Buy

If you're looking for the best travel bags to buy, you'll want to consider some top options. The Welch Briefcase, the Calhoun Men's Black Leather Crossbody Bag, the Taavi Tote, the Shelby Backpack, and the Wainwright Weekender are all great choices. Each bag offers unique features and benefits to meet different travel needs. Whether you're looking for a stylish briefcase for weekend trips or a spacious weekender for longer excursions, these bags are definitely worth checking out.

The Welch Briefcase

You'll love The Welch Briefcase, a vintage leather messenger bag that's perfect for carrying your laptop and other essentials. Made from high-quality crazy horse leather with a polyester lining, this bag has a unique vintage look and is highly water-resistant. The wax applied to the full-grain surface gives it a durable finish that can withstand wear and tear, making it an ideal travel bag.

The bag has the capacity to fit laptops up to 14 inches and comes with two central compartments and pencil holders, a zippered back pocket, and adjustable shoulder straps. The leather-lined comfortable grab handle adds to the bag's usability. The shoulder strap is also adjustable, so you can carry it the way you want. The Welch Briefcase is perfect for business trips, commuting, and everyday use.

PRODUCT SPECS:

Name: The Welch Briefcase | Vintage Leather Messenger Bag
Price: $199.00 (original price: $249.00)
Capacity: fits laptops up to 14 inches and other items
Material: high-quality crazy horse leather with polyester lining
Dimensions: 16.5 x 12 x 3.5 (42cm x 30cm x 9cm)
Weight: 3.7 lbs (1.7 kg)
Shoulder strap length: 53.1(135cm)
Features: 1 zippered back pocket, 2 central compartments and pencil holders, leather-lined comfortable grab handle, adjustable shoulder straps
What Fits: 15 Size - Laptop Compartment
Crazy Horse Leather: wax applied to full grain surface, unique vintage look, highly water-resistant, each bag is unique
Personalization: monogram available

PROS:

Durable and water-resistant
Fits laptops up to 14 inches
Unique vintage look
Adjustable shoulder straps and grab handle for easy carrying
Monogram available for personalization

CONS:

Mixed reviews, with some criticizing the zippers
Limited color options are available

Bjarke Weekender

You'll love the Bjarke Weekender, even if you're worried about the price. Its durable and sturdy construction ensures that it will last for years, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone in need of a reliable and stylish weekend bag.

The handcrafted leather duffle bag is available in two shades of brown, with a subtle design of overlaid quality leather and stitched leather bars. The bag is highly resistant to water and other liquids, making it perfect for the safe transportation of valuable items and gadgets.

The Bjarke Weekender has thoughtfully designed pockets, including a 14” laptop storage sleeve and a large main compartment, providing ample space for all your essentials. The soft leather handles make it comfortable to carry, while the removable shoulder strap provides an alternative carrying option.

The bag is made of high-quality crazy horse leather, which gives each bag a unique appearance due to the special wax and manufacturing process. With a shoulder strap length of 57 (145cm) and weighing 5.3 lbs, it's perfect for travel and can be used as a carry-on.

Product Specs:

Handcrafted leather duffle bag
Available in two shades of brown
Highly resistant to water and other liquids
14” laptop storage sleeve and large main compartment
Soft leather handles and removable shoulder strap
Made of high-quality crazy horse leather
Shoulder strap length of 57 (145cm)
Weighs 5.3 lbs

Pros:

Durable and sturdy construction ensures it will last for years
Thoughtfully-designed pockets provide ample space for essentials
Soft leather handles make it comfortable to carry
A removable shoulder strap provides an alternative carrying option
Highly resistant to water and other liquids

Cons:

The cost may be a concern for some customers
The natural material means that each bag is unique, so the appearance may vary slightly from the product image
Shipping times may vary from country to country, with bags taking up to 20 days to arrive.

The Taavi Tote

The Taavi Tote is a handcrafted leather bag that features a large compartment, ergonomically-designed straps, and a removable inside clutch, making it the perfect accessory for any occasion. The high-quality crazy horse leather used in the bag's construction ensures durability, strength, and a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from other travel bags.

The Taavi Tote's 13.4 X 13 X 5.9 (34cmx 33cm x 15cm) dimensions allow it to fit a 13-size laptop compartment, a 13 MacBook, and other similarly-sized PC laptops. Additionally, each bag has a slightly different color, adding to its unique look.

The Taavi Tote's advantages don't stop there. Its ergonomically-designed straps make carrying the bag comfortable and convenient, allowing you to take it with you wherever you go. Plus, the included removable inside clutch offers added versatility, allowing you to use it as a standalone accessory or store it inside the tote for added organization.

Whether you're heading to work, running errands, or going on a weekend getaway, the Taavi Tote is the perfect travel bag for any occasion.

Product Specs:

Material: high-quality crazy horse leather
Dimensions: 13.4 X 13 X 5.9 (34cmx 33cm x 15cm)
Features: 1 large compartment, ergonomically-designed straps, includes a free gift of a removable inside clutch
Fits: 13 Size - Laptop Compartment, 13 MacBook, other similarly-sized PC Laptops
Each bag has a slightly different color, adding to its unique look

Pros:

Durable and strong construction
Ergonomically-designed straps for comfortable carrying
The removable inside clutch offers added versatility

Cons:

May be too small for those who need to carry larger personal items
Limited color options are available
Shipping times may vary depending on the location

The Shelby Backpack

With its padded laptop case, exterior pockets, and adjustable shoulder strap, the Shelby Backpack from Steel Horse Leather Co. is a stylish and functional option for anyone in need of a durable and lightweight backpack.

Made of crazy horse leather, the Shelby Backpack is designed to stay vertical and distribute weight evenly, making it comfortable to wear for long periods of time.

The main compartment features a padded laptop case and a YKK zipper, while the exterior pockets have a soft polyester lining, perfect for storing your phone, wallet, or other small items.

The Shelby Backpack is spacious enough to fit a 17-inch laptop in the laptop compartment, making it a great option for students, professionals, or anyone who needs to carry their laptop with them.

The adjustable shoulder strap and leather-lined comfortable grab handle make it easy to carry, while the durable and lightweight crazy horse leather ensures that the backpack will last for years to come.

If you're in the market for a stylish and functional backpack that can keep up with your active lifestyle, the Shelby Backpack from Steel Horse Leather Co. is definitely worth considering.

Product Specs:

Handmade genuine leather backpack
Costs $279.00 (on sale from $329.00)
6 reviews available
Main compartment with padded laptop case and YKK zipper
Exterior pockets with soft polyester lining
Designed to stay vertical and distribute weight evenly
Made of crazy horse leather, which is durable and lightweight
Adjustable shoulder strap and leather-lined comfortable grab handle
Fits a 17-inch laptop in the laptop compartment
Can be returned within 30 days if unused and in the original packaging
Shipping times may vary from country to country
Free shipping for orders over $100

Pros:

Stylish and functional design
Padded laptop case and exterior pockets for additional storage
Adjustable shoulder strap and leather-lined comfortable grab handle for easy carrying
Durable and lightweight crazy horse leather ensures long-lasting use

Cons:

Higher price point compared to some other backpack options
Limited reviews available for the product

Wainwright Weekender

If you're in search of a durable and stylish option for weekend getaways, you can't go wrong with Steel Horse Leather Co.'s Wainwright Weekender. Made from high-quality crazy horse leather, this round vintage leather weekender not only looks great but also offers ample space to store your essentials.

The bag features 2 zipper side pockets, 2 small zipper pockets, 1 large padded compartment, and 1 zipper pocket inside, providing you with plenty of options to organize your belongings. It also fits devices up to 14 inches and comes with a top leather grab handle, ergonomically-designed straps, and a removable and adjustable leather shoulder strap with metal rings that recede when not in use.

Crafted from wax-treated full-grain leather, the Wainwright Weekender has an aged look that adds to its character. It retains toughness and is unique and durable, protecting it from water/moisture-related damage. Crazy horse leather also changes color when rubbed or scratched, giving it a rustic charm that can only come with age.

Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a weekend warrior, the Wainwright Weekender is the perfect companion for all your adventures.

PRODUCT SPECS:

Material: High-quality crazy horse leather
Dimensions: 20.5 x 11.4 x 11 (52cm x 29cm x 28cm)
Weight: 4.4 lbs (2 kg)
Features:
2 zipper side pockets
2 small zipper pockets
1 large compartment
1 zipper pocket inside
Fits devices up to 14
Top leather grab handle
Ergonomically-designed straps
Removable and adjustable leather shoulder strap with metal rings that recede when not in use

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I properly care for my leather travel bag?

Proper care for your leather travel bag is essential to maintain its appearance and durability. Cleaning techniques vary depending on the type of leather but generally involve wiping down the bag with a dry cloth and using a mild soap solution.

Always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area first. Leather conditioner should be applied regularly to keep the leather supple and prevent cracking. When not in use, store your bag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Dealing with stains can be tricky, but quick action is key. Blot the stain with a clean cotton cloth and try a specialized leather cleaner. Preventing scratches can be done by avoiding sharp objects and rough surfaces, but some scratches are inevitable and can add character to your bag.

With a little care and attention, your durable leather travel bag can last for years to come.

Can leather travel bags be used for both business and casual purposes?

Imagine walking into a room, dressed for a business meeting. You're wearing a sharp suit, polished shoes, and carrying a sleek leather travel bag.

Now imagine walking into that same room, but this time you're dressed in a casual outfit, maybe jeans and a sweater, with that same leather travel bag slung over your shoulder.

Versatility is the name of the game when it comes to leather travel bags. With a variety of personal style options, you can easily match your bag to your attire, whether you're dressing up or down.

Leather travel bags are the perfect travel companions, not only for their practicality but also for the fashion statement they make. So go ahead, and embrace the freedom to switch up your vintage style with a versatile leather travel bag.

Are leather travel bags durable enough for frequent use?

When it comes to frequent travel, all types of leather bags are great options to consider. While there are alternatives out there, investing in a high-quality leather travel bag comes with a range of benefits.

Not only are they durable and built to last, but they also provide a stylish and timeless look that's perfect for both business and casual use. To keep your leather bag in top condition, it's important to regularly maintain it with appropriate cleaning and conditioning products.

Design is also an important factor to consider when choosing a leather travel bag for frequent use, as it can have an enormous impact on its overall durability. Finally, make sure to choose the right size bag for your needs - one that's not too small or too large, but just right for your frequent travels.

So if you're looking for a reliable and stylish travel companion, a good-quality leather duffle bag is definitely worth considering.

What are some common features found in leather travel bags?

Oh, leather travel bags are the quintessential accessory for the stylish jet-setter. You want to look like you're ready to hop on a private jet to Monaco, even if you're just catching a red-eye to Cleveland.

The styles are endless, from the classic duffel to the trendy backpack. But let's not forget about the quality of the leather. You want something durable enough to withstand the hustle and bustle of frequent use, so make sure to do your research on the best leather quality for travel bags.

As for brands, the options are endless, from high-end luxury to more affordable options. And let's not forget about pricing, because we all know you want to look like a million bucks without actually spending it.

Size options are also important, because who wants to lug around a bag that's too big or too small for their needs? So, if you're ready to take on the world in style, make sure to consider all the features when choosing your perfect leather travel bag.

Can leather travel bags be personalized with initials or logos?

Looking for some personalization options for your leather travel duffle bag? You're in luck! Customization trends are on the rise, which means there are plenty of branding opportunities available.

One popular way to add a personal touch to your bag is through embossing techniques. This involves stamping your initials or logo onto the leather for a stylish and professional look.

When considering design, it's important to keep in mind the size and placement of the personalization, as well as the font and characteristic color options. With these options, you'll be able to create a one-of-a-kind leather travel bag that perfectly suits your style and needs.

So why not take advantage of the branding opportunities and add a touch of personalization to your next travel accessory?

Conclusion

Congratulations! You're now an expert in leather travel bags. You know the different types of leather used in travel bags and the various styles available to suit your preferences.

Now, it's time to choose the perfect leather travel bag that matches your personality and needs. When shopping for a leather travel bag, remember that it's not just a functional item but also a statement piece.

Choose a bag that reflects your style and personality, whether it's a classic briefcase or a modern backpack. Don't forget to pay attention to the details, such as the quality of the leather, the stitching, and the hardware. These small details will make a big difference in the overall look and durability of your bag.

As the saying goes, "Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer."And with a high-quality leather travel bag by your side, you'll feel even richer.

So go ahead, invest in a leather travel bag that you'll cherish for years to come. Happy travels!

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