Whenever I see those distinctive Rimowa suitcases being lugged around airports, I picture how they would look as an everyday‑carry bag. I would love to brag that I own a Rimowa (which I don’t), but it would be silly to walk around the mall pulling that luggage. My dream was partially answered with their hand‑carry case, yet it remains too big and bulky for daily use. Now, another wish has been fulfilled.
If you’re a backpack‑type person, you’d probably be queuing for the new Original Backpack—if you had around $2,400 to spare. You can now carry that iconic grooved silver shell, crafted from ultra‑resistant anodized aluminum, which gives you a minimalist, stylish bag that protects everything you store inside.
Rimowa’s Original Backpack in sleek silver marries the brand’s legendary durability with a contemporary, urban aesthetic. The shell is made from anodized aluminum that has been heat‑treated and brushed to a fine, matte finish. This not only creates the signature grooved pattern Rimowa is known for, but also adds corrosion resistance, making the bag suitable for rain, snow, or the occasional splash in a subway tunnel. The hard‑sided construction feels solid in the hand, yet the weight is surprisingly manageable for a piece of luggage this robust. Clean lines and a minimalist silhouette echo Rimowa’s iconic suitcase design, turning the backpack into a timeless accessory for commuters who value both style and substance.
Inside, the backpack adapts to the fast‑paced life of today’s traveler. A flexible layout includes a removable divider with dedicated pockets for a 16‑inch laptop and accessories, plus a hidden quick‑access pocket for valuables such as a passport or phone. The divider can be taken out entirely, opening the main compartment for larger items like a change of clothes or a compact camera kit. A breathable padded back panel with mesh ventilation helps keep the wearer cool during long rides, while adjustable shoulder straps padded with high‑density foam distribute weight evenly and reduce fatigue. Practical extras include a secure closing system, which includes dual YKK zippers with a lockable pull tab, ensuring contents stay safe even when the bag is jostled in a crowded train. A suitcase‑attachment sleeve slides over the handle of a rolling suitcase, allowing seamless transition from backpack to carry‑on, and a removable pouch can be tucked inside to maximize space or used as a standalone organizer for chargers, pens, and business cards.
The backpack is inevitably heavier than a typical soft‑sided bag because of its hard shell and premium materials. At roughly 3.2 kg (7 lb) empty, it adds a noticeable load, but the weight feels justified when you consider the protection it offers. The aluminum shell shields delicate electronics from bumps and drops, while the internal padding cushions against shoulder pressure. The breathable back panel prevents sweat buildup during longer rides, and the adjustable straps can be fine‑tuned for a custom fit.
Overall, Rimowa’s Original Backpack is a statement piece that blends luxury luggage heritage with functional everyday carry. It suits urban commuters, frequent flyers, and style‑conscious professionals who want a bag that looks as good as it protects. While the price and weight may deter budget‑focused or ultra‑active users, anyone willing to invest in a durable, aesthetically striking backpack will find that the Original Backpack lives up to the brand’s reputation for quality and design excellence. At the very least, you can say you have a Rimowa on your back.
Backpacks have come a long way from their humble beginnings as utilitarian gear for hikers and campers. Today, they’re indispensable companions for everything from daily commutes to globe-trotting adventures. Their transformation reflects an evolution in materials, functionality, and style, becoming essential tools for modern living. Centuries ago, people relied on rudimentary sacks made of animal skins or plant materials. Over time, these evolved into leather bags for medieval travelers and soldiers, and by the 19th century, metal-framed designs appeared, though they offered little comfort. In recent decades, backpacks have revolutionized, offering unmatched versatility and comfort.
Here’s how contemporary trends are reshaping the industry:
1. Sustainability Takes Center Stage
As consumers grow more eco-conscious, backpack manufacturers are adopting sustainable practices. Materials like organic cotton, bamboo, and recycled plastics are gaining prominence, balancing durability with environmental responsibility. The 21st century has witnessed a surge in designs that minimize ecological impact without compromising on strength or longevity—perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who demand reliability in extreme conditions.
The 38L Hybrid Duffle Pack combines sustainability with high functionality, using materials and processes that eliminate waste.
Designed to be carbon neutral, it is crafted from 123 recycled plastic bottles and strengthened with atmospheric CO2, making it storm-proof and incredibly durable. Endorsed by explorer Ed Stafford, this pack features a versatile hybrid design, allowing you to easily switch between backpack, side-strap, and duffle modes thanks to its detachable straps and handles.
With a 38L capacity, the bag includes a fleece-lined laptop compartment, multiple pockets, and side bottle holders, offering ample storage and easy organization. The fabric is made from recycled PET bottles, while the interior lining uses recycled fishing nets and eco-friendly dyes.
Its hardware is infused with CO2, making it up to 40% more durable than virgin plastics. Waterproof zippers and advanced water-based coatings ensure resilience in harsh weather conditions—whether you’re heading to work or embarking on an adventure.
2. Integration of Technology
Backpacks are becoming smarter, integrating features that cater to tech-savvy lifestyles. Built-in USB ports, wireless charging pads, and Bluetooth connectivity have become standard offerings for many. Enhanced security features like RFID-blocking compartments, concealed zippers, and cut-resistant fabrics provide peace of mind in urban settings. Smart textiles ensure durability, water resistance, and even protection against microorganisms. Some designs also incorporate LED lighting for visibility at night, making these backpacks perfect for navigating today’s tech-driven world.
For instance, Microsoft’s AI-powered smart backpack, recently patented in the U.S., pushes boundaries. As a digital assistant, it identifies objects, provides real-time information, and manages daily tasks like reminders or calendar updates. With cloud connectivity, it delivers instant access to online resources while aiding navigation for the visually impaired. Its lightweight and ergonomic design reflects how technology and practicality can merge seamlessly.
3. Comfort-Driven Ergonomic Design
Personalized backpacks are becoming increasingly popular, allowing users to select colors, internal layouts, and removable compartments that suit their individual needs. Modern backpacks often feature specialized compartments for laptops, headphones, and even solar-powered charging panels, catering to tech-savvy consumers. Simultaneously, they have become fashion statements, with luxury brands creating high-end versions for professional and casual use. These backpacks are versatile, stylish, and adaptable to any occasion—whether in the office or on a weekend outing.
Fil & Fog by Fritsch-Durisotti, a Paris-based creative studio, offers a thoughtfully designed line of backpacks and companion organizers that blend practicality with durability. Designed for modern adventurers and daily commuters, these backpacks feature water-resistant TPU coatings and high-frequency welding for enhanced durability and water-tightness. The expandable top compartment and spacious 24-liter capacity provide ample room for personal items and essentials.
The accompanying organizers include customizable elastic bands, which allow users to adjust internal compartments for optimal storage. These organizers seamlessly fit into the backpack’s bottom compartment, keeping items organized and accessible. Made from polyester fabric and recycled nylon lining, these backpacks present a sustainable, waterproof solution for all types of travel. Ideal for outdoor excursions or daily use, Fil & Fog offers a versatile, long-lasting companion designed to keep your belongings secure while simplifying an active lifestyle.
4. Comfort-Driven Ergonomic Design
Ergonomic backpacks have become increasingly popular as they provide effective relief from back pain that traditional or heavy backpacks often cause. Designed for comfort and support, these backpacks include padded straps, lumbar support, and back panels that mold to the spine, ensuring even weight distribution and promoting proper posture. Adjustable straps and waist belts help distribute the weight from the shoulders to the hips, minimizing strain and maximizing comfort. For hiking or everyday use, ergonomic backpacks allow users to carry their essentials without discomfort, utilizing lightweight yet durable materials like nylon.
The Symmetry S1 backpack, developed with input from chiropractors, incorporates memory foam straps and lumbar support to reduce shoulder and back strain while promoting proper posture. Designed for versatility, it blends a formal aesthetic with features like collapsible side pockets and a concealed valuables compartment. Its symmetrical, ambidextrous design, along with an upright base and a 180° front opening, makes the Symmetry S1 both practical and stylish for various settings. Made from high-quality materials such as twill nylon, ballistic nylon, and full-grain leather, the S1 provides a comfortable and functional solution for everyday use, with compartments for a 16-inch laptop, tablet, and other essentials.
5. Multifunctionality at Its Best
Multifunctional backpacks are gaining popularity, designed for versatility across different settings such as the gym, office, or travel. Modular designs offer adaptability, allowing users to customize their bags for various needs without sacrificing style. Backpacks have evolved into fashion statements, ranging from simple, understated looks to bold, vibrant patterns, serving as key accessories to express personal style. These practical yet stylish backpacks feature multiple pockets for organizing items like keys, phones, books, and gadgets, making them the perfect blend of functionality and fashion. Sleek, minimalist designs are trending, featuring neutral tones and clean aesthetics seamlessly integrating into urban lifestyles.
Wool & Oak’s Carry-On Backpack offers versatility to accommodate anything from a laptop to a weekend’s worth of gear. This system includes five separate bags, each designed for a specific purpose. The Pro Backpack, featuring 19 pockets and a 16-inch laptop compartment, is an everyday laptop bag. It can function independently or attach to the Weekender Duffle, the largest bag, for expanded storage. The Weekender Duffle, with dual side access and hidden pockets, can also be used as a standalone duffle bag or backpack, adding flexibility for various uses.
Additional accessories like a laptop sleeve, toiletry kit, and sling-style fanny pack enhance the overall functionality, allowing you to tailor the setup to your needs. Made from premium leather in brown or black, the Carry-On Backpack can be customized with add-ons like the Sling-bag, Laptop Sleeve, Toiletry Kit, and Camera Cube. Wool & Oak’s Carry-On Backpack is perfect for travelers who need a flexible, stylish solution for any adventure.
Backpacks have evolved into more than just storage solutions—they’re an extension of how we live, work, and explore. With innovations in technology, sustainability, and design, the humble backpack continues to reinvent itself, ensuring it remains an essential part of our lives.
LEGO enthusiasts and travelers can now experience the joy of their favorite bricks on the go with LEGO’s latest innovation – the LEGO® Brick-Inspired Trolley and Backpack Set. This remarkable set is available at Costco and combines playful design with top-tier functionality, not to mention the fact that it looks so unique there’s no way anyone’s going to accidentally mistake it for their own on the airport luggage belt!
Much like the iconic LEGO bricks that have been loved for generations, this set is built with durability in mind. The carry-on trolley is made from polypropylene, a high-quality material known for its strength and resilience, while the matching backpack is crafted from robust polyester. Together, they offer reinforced corners and secure closures that keep belongings safe, even during the most adventurous of journeys.
From the moment you see this set, it’s clear that LEGO’s signature creativity is at work. The trolley and backpack are available in bright, vibrant colors – red, blue, and yellow – evoking the playful essence of LEGO bricks. The design is not only visually exciting but also highly functional. The expandable trolley provides additional space for those last-minute outfits, and the backpack, with its handy trolley strap, can easily be attached for smooth rolling through airports or schools.
Inside the trolley, you’ll find sleek grey interiors that are not only modern but also practical. A zipped partition ensures that your belongings remain organized and intact, while an additional netted pocket over the partition allows for quick access to frequently needed items like travel documents or snacks.
The backpack truly sets itself apart with its unique design, featuring two zipped pockets on the front that resemble the ‘studs’ of a LEGO brick, adding a playful touch to the overall aesthetic. Keeping the brightness alive, the interior boasts vibrant yellow hues and includes two compartments specifically designed for laptops, iPads, and books. Whether for school or work, this backpack ensures your essentials are safely stored and easy to access.
Though initially designed with children in mind, this set is sure to awaken the inner child in any young adult who loves LEGO. The fun design is coupled with practical features such as water resistance and a TSA-approved lock for added security. Whether for a family vacation, school trip, or simply a fun weekend getaway, this set is perfect for every occasion.
For a great price of $149, this LEGO-inspired trolley and backpack set can be purchased at Costco as well as Home Depot. It’s the perfect investment for anyone seeking a mix of style, durability, and playful charm in their travel gear. With a set like this, every trip becomes an adventure, whether you’re young in age or just young at heart.
Connexion
