Troubadour London is a brand that specializes in minimalist, fashionable bags with high performance features.
I first discovered Troubadour backpacks writing a review on their Thomas Pink travel bag collaboration. Since then, I’ve been an avid follower of the brand, staying in the loop on new features and product releases.
One of the best features of Troubadour bags is the compartments.
The pockets are well thought out to fit the appropriate essentials for the uses of the bag. You’ll find spacious zipped pockets, padded sleeves, elastic compartments and designated areas sized for items like laptops, paperwork, passports, keys, chargers, phones and more.
This Troubadour backpack with laptop compartment has the perfect, separated padded sleeve that comfortably fits my large 16” MacBook Pro.
Some more features to love:
- Waterproof / water resistant materials
- Well thought pockets and compartments
- Sleek, minimalist design for men and women
- Super lightweight, functional materials
Using premium northern European calfskin, Troubadour used a DriTan technology in the Netherlands that also saves water, resulting in a material that’s smooth, durable and sustainable. The material is really luxe. And being so lightweight makes a big difference in transit.
Troubadour London makes really stylish backpacks for men and women with a sleek, minimalist design. Most styles are smooth black, with just a few neutral colors available. Zippers have utilitarian heavy-duty teeth, and pulls have pull-tabs with a nice feel to the touch. The bags have great curves as well as extra padding that give them a luxurious feel in more than one way.
After doing some quick research on who makes the best leather backpacks, I discovered a couple of things.
- Troubadour makes really sleek, fashionable backpacks. The competition had a lot more heritage looks and utilitarian or tech-looking designs.
- The luxury price-range of Troubadour is on the expensive side, but so are a lot of the other brands when you’re looking for style and functionality.
- You can consider Tumi a close competitor in design vs. functionality at a similar price point.
There are a few things to consider before investing in a Troubadour backpack. There are some ultra-utilitarian features that you might feel like you’re missing. The shoulder straps have double buckles, instead of the very-easy pull-to-adjust straps some of the moderate tear brands offer. There was also a slightly less functional clip for the chest area that was not as secure as a standard buckle. But overall, the functionality is superior to many brands designing from a luxury fashion perspective.
Let’s compare the Troubadour bag to a Tumi leather backpack I have used for years from their luxury storefront in Brookfield place mall, NYC.
I have used my Tumi backpack for years with some pretty heavy travel under my belt domestically and internationally. It’s been banged around a lot, but the heavy duty leather has withstood, and it still looks as good as ever. Troubadour’s sleek calfskin leather is a lot smoother, so I’m curious to see if it will stand up to as much traffic.
The assortment of pockets and space is much better balanced on the Troubadour bag vs. my Tumi leather backpack.
Organization is key, and Troubadour really excels in this area. I feel like I have a ton more space in my Troubadour bag vs. the Tumi backpack, even though they look about the same size.
Troubadour bags are significantly lighter.
My Tumi bag is heavy. Even when it’s empty. I was pretty surprised when I picked up the Troubadour bag at just how lightweight it was. This makes a big difference if you have a lot of walking in travel or transit.
Both bags buckle at the zipper from time to time. I suppose structure vs. flexibility and softness is always a challenge in backpack design. It doesn’t bother me, but at a luxury price range I’d like to see the shape of the bag hold itself a bit better.
Why specifically the metropolitan? Troubadour bags are a great balance of sleek design and functionality. It’s something that matters when you have important work you need to accomplish, and no time to sort out fashion faux pas. Troubadour bags have a timeless silhouette with the versatility and organization required to keep up with a fast paced lifestyle. The waterproof calfskin with a protected laptop pocket keeps critical equipment safe, even when facing less desirable weather or elements during transit.
I worked in NYC for some years, traveling by Taxi, Uber, Subway–you name it. I worked in an inspiring skyscraper with great views of the city and often walked up to 30 minutes to get to the office just to soak in the cities unmatched energy. I often met with important clients, and dined with our Founders and CEO straight from the office with no time to drop off office essentials. This Troubadour bag would have been a great asset navigating the metropolitan lifestyle. (Not to mention a great client gift when you’re looking for something exceptional).
Living a lifestyle where every second counts, you can’t put a price on versatile high end style and functionality.
Worth the luxury brand price point? I’ll let you decide. You can shop Troubadour bags here. Want more? Reach out if you’re interested in more Troubadour reviews, and we can keep that insight flowing. Until then, enjoy your journey.
In accordance with the FTC regulations for Influencers, this post features gifted items from Troubadour. All thoughts, comments and musings are made of my own opinion and honest, personal experience with the products reviewed or mentioned. I hope you’ve found this post informational and inspiring!
