THE JOURNAL

How do you pack for a weekend break? Here at MR PORTER, we’re big advocates of the “luggage first” approach: decide on the bag you’re going to take before you decide what you’re going to pack into it. What this does is place limitations on how much you can take, forcing you to edit down your packing list and focus only on what is absolutely necessary.
Remember: the bigger your suitcase, the harder you will find it to navigate the bustling airports, train stations and other transport hubs that are an unavoidable reality of modern travel. Travelling light is the way forward and the right suitcase can help you do just that.
It’s also worth keeping in mind that luggage isn’t just about utility. Bags, backpacks and the other accessories we take with us on our travels play an important role in our outfits, too, so it pays to think about form as well as function. Here, we’ve picked out a few options that offer plenty of both.
01.
The Gucci compact suitcase

Gucci first rose to prominence in the postwar jet-set era and has been a favourite of well-heeled travellers ever since. Its GG Supreme monogrammed luggage is a regular sight in first-class lounges, where it is coveted not only for its old-school looks, but for its smart design features, too. We’re rather partial to this mini suitcase. Perfectly sized for a day trip or short break, its dinky proportions and 360-degree wheels will see you whizz through Arrivals in style.
02.
The LOEWE beach (and more) bag

More than just a beach bag, raffia totes also function as great days bag for city breaks. This one, from Spanish luxury brand LOEWE’s latest collaboration with legendary Ibiza boutique Paula’s, is big enough for a serious splurge at the local farmers’ market – we can just picture it overflowing with greenery – but folds flat at the base to fit easily into your main suitcase, too. The bold branding on the canvas handles offers a serious style statement, to boot.
03.
The Berluti big weekender

Berluti’s expansion from ultra-high-end shoemaker to fully fledged menswear and lifestyle brand has blessed us with some truly excellent luggage over the years. Hardly surprising, really, when you consider the brand’s heritage as a master of leather. There’s plenty of the stuff to be found on this leather-trimmed holdall, the body of which is made of a sturdy denim Jacquard fabric and decorated with the artistic Scritto motif that has become a recognisable signature of the brand. Note the zipped compartment at the base, which is ideal for stashing an extra pair of shoes.
04.
The classic SAINT LAURENT messenger

This zipped messenger bag from SAINT LAURENT is perfect for keeping your valuables close at hand in busy city centres or for stashing your passport and other documents while heading through airport security. But, while we love the practicality, what truly seals the deal is the way it looks. The shiny gold hardware, tan leather trim and old-school YSL logo print give it a real vintage luxury feel. It’s the sort of thing we can imagine travelling with for years to come.
05.
The Brunello Cucinelli leather duffel on wheels

From the Italian master of low-key, laid-back luxury comes this suitcase-meets-duffel bag, a hybrid piece of luggage realised in some of the softest leather you’re ever likely to lay your hands on. Now, we know what you’re thinking: hybrid how? Yes, it may look like just a duffel bag in this picture, but don’t be fooled: look closer and you’ll find that it’s fitted with a fully extendable handle and two wheels concealed in the base, allowing you to cart it through the terminal with ease.
06.
The luxe TOM FORD backpack

A sleek and sophisticated companion to your suitcase with space inside for a laptop or tablet, this pebble-grain leather backpack is a winning investment for frequent flyers. What with it being a TOM FORD creation, it looks the part, too. It comes in an eye-catching shade of deep midnight blue – a colour exclusive to MR PORTER – and those signature oversized metal zips offering a subtle style statement, but a recognisable one for those in the know.
07.
The minimalist Jacquemus mini bag

From Provençal designer Mr Simon Porte Jacquemus’ eponymous brand comes this Le Cuerda pouch, an essentials-only mini bag designed for the guy who likes to travel as light as possible. Featuring a fully adjustable shoulder strap, it is best worn tightly across the body with your phone, passport and credit card stowed safely inside.