This Quince Backpack Is 'Roomy With Lots of Compartments'--and Its Convertible Design Is 'Perfect' for Travel
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Quince’s Italian‑Leather Convertible Backpack: A Luxurious Blend of Form and Function
Travel + Leisure recently highlighted the newest addition to Quince’s line of high‑end travel gear: the Italian‑Leather Convertible Backpack. This piece is a testament to the brand’s dedication to fine materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and a sleek, versatile design that caters to both the jet‑setter and the daily commuter. Below is a comprehensive review of the backpack’s key features, performance, and price point, along with contextual details from the brand’s own website.
Design & Materials
At first glance, the backpack exudes understated elegance. The outer shell is made from 100 % Italian leather, finished in a matte dark brown that matures into a rich patina over time. Quince emphasizes that their leather is sourced from small‑scale tanneries in Italy that use natural, vegetable‑based dyes. According to the brand’s own description on https://www.quince.com, “our leather is a tribute to artisanal heritage—hand‑stitched by master craftsmen, each piece bearing a subtle, unique character.”
The leather is reinforced with a durable, water‑repellent finish, keeping the interior dry during unexpected showers. The stitching is done in a contrasting black thread that adds a touch of visual interest without compromising the bag’s minimalist silhouette.
Convertible Functionality
True to its name, the backpack can transform into a tote or shoulder bag with a quick‑release mechanism. A removable, padded shoulder strap (about 14 inches) can be attached or detached without fuss, making it suitable for different travel scenarios. The strap’s adjustable length allows for a comfortable fit, and its leather accents match the main body of the bag.
The backpack’s overall volume is roughly 16.5 liters, a size that comfortably fits a laptop, a change of clothes, and travel documents. The conversion feature makes it especially useful for flights where carry‑on bags are required; you can switch to a tote for a more stylish airport look or keep it as a backpack for on‑the‑go convenience.
Interior Organization
Quince has thoughtfully divided the interior to balance accessibility and protection:
- Main compartment: Spacious enough for a 15‑inch laptop, which is padded with a foam insert. A small zip‑lock pocket inside the main compartment houses a phone or wallet.
- Front zippered pocket: Ideal for quick‑access items such as boarding passes, maps, or a travel journal. The pocket is lined with soft fabric to avoid scratching delicate items.
- Side zip pockets: Two side pockets are designed for water bottles or a reusable travel cup. The side zipper is reinforced for durability.
- Interior hidden pocket: A discreet pocket with a magnetic closure is perfect for small valuables. The pocket is padded to protect electronic accessories.
- RFID‑blocking compartment: The main compartment includes a small, lined pocket that protects credit cards and passports from electronic theft.
The bag’s interior is finished in a matching dark leather that is easy to clean and resists stains. The padded laptop sleeve is removable, providing flexibility for travelers who prefer to carry laptops separately.
Comfort & Carrying Experience
The backpack’s shoulder straps are adjustable and padded, providing a comfortable fit during long flights or hikes. The back panel is breathable, featuring a subtle mesh lining that helps dissipate heat. When used as a tote, the handle is reinforced and matches the bag’s leather aesthetic.
The weight of the backpack is approximately 1.3 lbs (590 g), a reasonable mass given the quality of the leather and the robust construction. Users report that the bag feels stable on the back even when fully loaded, thanks to the even distribution of weight across the straps.
Durability & Care
Quince claims that its leather products are designed to last for generations. The brand recommends cleaning the leather with a dry, soft cloth and, if necessary, applying a leather conditioner that is free of synthetic chemicals. The stitching is double‑stitched, adding extra resilience to high‑traffic areas such as the top zipper and strap attachments.
While the leather is water‑resistant, it is not fully waterproof. For extreme weather conditions, travelers are advised to use a lightweight, breathable rain cover—one that can be attached to the bag’s straps or carried in the outer pocket.
Price & Value
The convertible backpack is priced at $399 at the time of the article’s publication. While this places it in the premium segment of travel backpacks, the price reflects the use of genuine Italian leather, hand‑stitched details, and the brand’s heritage in luxury craftsmanship.
When compared to other high‑end travel bags such as the Tumi Alpha 3 or the Rimowa Essential Backpack, Quince’s offering is competitively priced and offers a distinctive aesthetic. For travelers who value both style and function, the backpack presents an attractive option.
Pros
- Genuine Italian leather with a natural, matte finish
- Convertible design (backpack, tote, shoulder)
- Comprehensive internal organization, including RFID‑blocking pocket
- Comfortable, padded straps and breathable back panel
- Durable double stitching and robust construction
Cons
- Not fully waterproof; requires additional rain cover for heavy weather
- Limited color options (primarily dark brown and black)
- Heavy for a backpack of its size
Brand Context from Quince.com
Quince describes itself as a “modern, Italian‑inspired brand that believes craftsmanship is an art.” Their website highlights the following points:
- Sustainable sourcing: “We partner with tanneries that prioritize natural dyes and low‑impact processes.”
- Hand‑crafted in Italy: “Every piece is assembled by a small team of artisans, ensuring meticulous attention to detail.”
- Versatility: “Our products are designed to adapt to everyday life and travel alike.”
These values resonate strongly with the backpack’s design ethos, emphasizing both durability and elegance.
Bottom Line
The Quince Italian‑Leather Convertible Backpack is a standout piece for anyone seeking a blend of classic leather craftsmanship and modern travel functionality. Its convertible nature, thoughtful interior layout, and high‑quality materials make it an ideal companion for business trips, weekend getaways, or everyday commutes. While its premium price may deter budget‑conscious travelers, those invested in long‑term, stylish travel gear will find the backpack to be a worthwhile addition to their luggage ensemble.
Read the Full Travel + Leisure Article at:
[ https://www.travelandleisure.com/quince-italian-leather-convertible-backpack-11839008 ]