Luxury Leather Backpacks
Luxurious backpacks designed to impress.
Handmade from the finest full-grain vegetable-tanned Italian leather .
Personalization available.
10X
Leather Laptop Travel Bag
$1,600
Liberty
Women's Leather Backpack
$1,300
10X
Women's Leather Laptop Travel Bag
$1,600
Liberty
Men's Leather Backpack
$1,300
AS FEATURED IN
Why Choose Von Baer?
Expertly Handcrafted Leather Products
Full-Grain Vegetable-Tanned Italian Leather
Strong Hardware for a Lifetime of Use
Luxurious & Durable Cotton Lining
Personalize With a Laser Engraving
Exquisitely Rich-Hued Leather for Refined Tastes
Buying Guide
Upgrade Your Professional and Travel Game with the Right Backpack
Your choice of a daily companion must be as versatile and capable as you are. Whether you're navigating the fast-paced corridors of your office, breezing through airport terminals, or transitioning from work to leisure, a thoughtfully designed carry-all offers unmatched versatility. But not all designs are created equal, and the details matter.
- Balance between form and function: Look for clean, structured silhouettes that maintain their shape and avoid bulk.
- Accessibility through external compartments: External zippers and compartments should provide quick access to high-use items without disrupting the overall design.
- Durable and thoughtful linings: Premium cotton or micro-suede protects belongings while reflecting excellent craftsmanship.
For example, managing multiple bags while moving between meetings, hotels, and co-working spaces can be a hassle. A premium leather option eliminates the need for a briefcase, tote, and carry-on, simplifying your day while presenting a polished image.
The goal is to combine utility with refined style, making sure your bag works for every aspect of your life.
Invest in the Excellence of Full-Grain Leather
Not all leather is created equal—and understanding the distinction ensures you choose a product that matches your investment with longevity. Full-grain, vegetable-tanned Italian material is the gold standard.
- Why full-grain? This premium material retains the natural strength and character of the hide, offering unparalleled durability - which is why we use it here at Von Baer.
- Vegetable tanning for sustainability: The process uses natural tannins from tree bark and plants, enhancing environmental sustainability while creating leather that ages beautifully.
- Developing a patina over time: With use, the material gains character, telling a story of your travels and experiences.
If you’ve spent years carrying a bag that has weathered boardroom presentations, redeye flights, and city commutes, you’ll notice how full-grain withstands wear and becomes even more appealing. Unlike synthetic materials that crack or peel, it continues to improve with proper care.
Practical tip: Use a leather conditioner periodically and store the item in a dust bag when not in use to maintain its appearance.
By understanding what makes a material premium, you can ensure every dollar you spend works toward a lifetime of performance.
Maximize Organization Without Sacrificing Style
Smart design isn’t just a feature; it’s a philosophy. When selecting a premium carry-on, internal organization should cater to your lifestyle.
- Prioritize compartments: Look for multi-functional compartments adaptable to your needs.
- Laptop protection: A dedicated sleeve with thick padding ensures your device stays safe during travel or daily commutes.
- Hidden compartments for security: RFID-blocking pockets can protect credit cards or passports, especially during international travel.
- Prevent shifting: Elasticated bottle holders or tech accessory slots (for chargers and cables) keep items secure and easy to find.
Packing tip: Place heavier items, like a laptop, closest to your back to maintain balance and reduce strain. Use slimmer pockets for smaller essentials like pens or AirPods for quick access without rummaging.
An organized carry solution simplifies routines and adds confidence in situations like airport security or moving between meetings.
Customization and thoughtful layout turn your bag into an indispensable partner in your daily routine.
Comfort That Adapts to Your Lifestyle
A high-end travel companion should feel as good as it looks. When evaluating comfort, focus on ergonomic features that support long-term wear.
- Shoulder straps: Thickly padded and contoured designs distribute weight evenly, reducing pressure on shoulders and back.
- Breathable back panels: Mesh materials wick moisture and improve airflow, keeping you comfortable during long wear.
- Convenient luggage pass-through sleeve: This feature allows the bag to slide securely over a suitcase handle, making travel seamless.
- Adjustable straps for versatility: These help accommodate different clothing, from formal suits to heavier outerwear.
Paired with a structured base, the bag stands upright when set down, keeping your contents accessible without spilling. Whether walking to a meeting or rushing through an airport, this stability enhances the experience.
True luxury lies in how the smallest details improve your day, not just in how they look.
Make a Statement of Intent
Your bag is more than an accessory; it’s a declaration of your values. A refined leather piece reflects your attention to quality, functionality, and aesthetics. Crafted with precision, it doesn’t just carry your belongings—it reveals your personal brand.
- Professional image: A carefully chosen bag can subtly reinforce your professionalism and confidence, leaving a strong impression on clients and colleagues.
- Personalization: Consider embossed initials or unique color options to make your item distinct and reflect your personality.
For example, the reaction of a client or colleague who notices your bag may subtly signal your commitment to quality and detail. This aligns with the image you project in every professional or personal interaction.
When every element of your travel companion aligns with your goals and lifestyle, it reinforces that you’re someone who prioritizes excellence in all aspects of life.
1. How do I know if I’m buying authentic full-grain leather?
To identify authentic full-grain leather, look for:
- Visible natural imperfections: Full-grain retains the original hide's texture, including small scars or grain variations. Perfectly uniform leather is often synthetic or heavily processed.
- Water absorption test: Place a drop of water on the surface; genuine leather absorbs it slowly, leaving a darkened spot that fades.
- Touch and smell: Real leather feels warm, soft, and textured, with a rich, earthy scent. Synthetic alternatives often feel cold or plasticky and lack a distinct smell.
- Certification: all good brands provide leather certification as proof.
- Reputable brands: Purchase from established brands known for using high-quality materials. Look for certifications or specifications mentioning full-grain, vegetable-tanned leather.
2. Is a leather backpack a good choice for all-weather use?
Leather is naturally durable, but exposure to excessive moisture can damage it over time. To make it weather-resistant:
- Use a leather protector spray: Choose one designed for full-grain leather to repel water without affecting its natural finish.
- Dry carefully if wet: Pat it gently with a soft cloth and allow it to air dry. Avoid direct heat, which can cause cracking.
- Store properly: Keep it away from extreme humidity or dryness to prevent mold or brittleness.
If your lifestyle involves constant rain or snow, consider a backpack with a water-resistant lining or a rain cover for extra protection.
3. How much should I expect to spend on a high-quality leather backpack?
Depending on the grade of full-grain leather used, the cost of a backpack can range from $300 up to $3,000.
- Leather quality: Vegetable-tanned Italian leather is on the higher end.
- Craftsmanship: Hand-stitched or small-batch items cost more due to attention to detail.
- Brand reputation: Established, luxury brands may charge more for their name, but lesser-known artisans can provide equivalent quality at a lower price.
While it may seem like a significant upfront cost, the durability and timeless style ensure it’s an investment that pays off over many years.
4. Can leather backpacks be used for air travel?
Yes, a well-designed leather backpack is perfect for air travel because:
- Meets carry-on size restrictions: Most are compact enough to fit under the seat or in the overhead bin.
- Luggage pass-through sleeve: Many designs include this feature for seamless pairing with rolling suitcases.
- Organized compartments: Keeps travel documents, electronics, and personal items easily accessible.
Ensure you check the dimensions of the bag against your airline’s carry-on size requirements if you plan to maximize its capacity.
5. How do I maintain the bag to keep it looking great for years?
Yes you can, here's how:
- Clean regularly: Wipe with a damp, soft cloth to remove dust and dirt. Use a leather cleaner for deeper cleaning every few months.
- Condition periodically: Apply a high-quality leather conditioner to prevent dryness and cracking, especially in dry climates.
- Store properly: Keep the bag in a dust bag when not in use. Avoid hanging it for extended periods, as this can distort the shape.
- Avoid overloading: Carrying excessive weight can strain the straps and stitching.
Co-Founder: Albert Varkki
Von Baer was founded because I wanted a unique and high-quality laptop bag for myself, without paying for an unreasonably overpriced designer brand. I've spent over 500 hours testing 1,000s of leather products over to help you get a better product.
I'm proud of the luxurious leather goods we've created since 2014, and I'm sure you'll love them too. Read more about our story here.
We strive for the highest editorial standards, and to only publish accurate information on our website.
How Is Von Baer Leather Different?
Not all leather is the same.
Since 2015, we at Von Baer have dedicated ourselves to high-quality real leather.
Here's a 30-second summary of how to choose a better leather product:
- Leather comes in different grades: full-grain, top-grain, and split/bonded - which represent how much of the original product is used (less product used = cheaper).
- Full-grain is the best grade of leather you can buy: exceptionally durable, developing an elegant patina, and having that beautiful real leather smell.
- Cheaper grades are less durable, age poorly, and don't have that authentic scent.
- Leather is processed through "tanning", which makes it durable and water-resistant.
- The two main methods for this are "vegetable-tanning" and "chrome-tanning".
- Chrome tanning uses harsh chemicals that are bad for the environment and produce a worse quality leather.
- Vegetable tanning is the best method, being more eco-friendly, and producing leather with a better patina and scent.
That's why here at Von Baer, we only use full-grain vegetable-tanned Italian leather, sourced from the finest tanneries across Tuscany, Italy.
It ages beautifully over time, developing a unique patina, making it more durable and luxurious than lower-quality leather.
It's also why we developed the leather standards trademark Cuoio Superiore (meaning "superior leather" in Italian).
Learn more about Von Baer here.