THE JOURNAL
From left: Jacob Elordi at Melbourne Airport, April 2025. Photograph by Bottega Veneta. Pedro Pascal at Nice Airport, France, 16 May 2025. Photograph by Marc Piasecki/GC Images. Park Bo-gum at Incheon International Airport, South Korea, 26 March 2025. Photograph by The Chosunilbo JNS/Imazins via Getty Images
No matter the holiday destination, if far away from where you’re now reading this story is exactly where you need to be, then you may require a piece of luggage. Or two. But getting the bag right is just as important as your packing list. Think something spacious and sturdy for long-haul travel. Or a backpack that has room to hold just a change of clothes and a wash bag for a city break. If you’re doing business rather than leisure, look for a smarter option. Oh, and you’ll need a briefcase on that occasion, too.
To make your trips as stress-free as possible, we’ve put together a roundup of the bags that will take you places this summer. Bon voyage.
01. The compact carry-on
When looking for a cabin bag, consider both form and function. Sure, a compact design, internal organisers and tech sleeves go a long way. But think of this accessory as an extension of your outfit. Which is why we turn to brands such as Berluti, Gucci and FPM Milano to make the right impression at the Centurion Lounge. Consider a bolder “GG” monogrammed style or a refined Scritto Venezia leather carry-on. And don’t overlook functional details such as 360-degree wheels – the easiest way to navigate busy terminals – padded linings and TSA locks.
02. The practical weekend bag
Off to the country or planning a quick city break? Travel light and pack smart. For a couple of days, you’ll need an outfit change, perhaps a change of shoes, a wash bag and a book for the journey – all of which can fit comfortably in a weekend bag. A classic design in leather or suede such as Bottega Veneta and Métier’s will never go out of style. However, if you’re looking to switch things up for a sojourn in Ibiza, CELINE HOMME’s bold rainbow style says you came here to have fun.
03. The luxe backpack
Checked in your bags, but still need to keep your essentials close to hand? These will have your back. Once a back-to-school relic that would disappear from any style-discerning capsule wardrobe past a certain age, the backpack now comes in all sorts of mature iterations, courtesy of some of your favourite brands. Bleu de Chauffe adds a rugged edge to any outfit, while LOEWE, CELINE HOMME and Gucci offer up their own luxe take on the city-ready bag.
04. The refined briefcase
Although many office dress codes have loosened up in recent years, a classic suit is still the first place our mind goes to when we want to look polished, often leaving accessories as an afterthought. But if you’re dressing to impress, you’ve got to look the part on all fronts, even when you’re travelling. In a sea of monochrome suits, the details can make a world of difference, so it’s worth investing in a briefcase that’s functional, smart and versatile. You’ll use it pretty much every day, so you’ll want to go for neutral shades. And opt for materials that add a point of difference, such as a refined pebble-grain or cross-grain leather.
The people featured in this story are not associated with and do not endorse MR PORTER or the products shown