A weekend away, a short business trip or a spontaneous road trip. For trips like these you don't want to lug along a big suitcase, but you don't want to cram everything into a plastic bag either. A leather weekender is the perfect solution: stylish, practical and exactly big enough for a few days.
In this article we discuss what to look out for when choosing a leather weekender. Would you first like to know more about types of leather and general quality characteristics? Then read our complete buyer's guide to leather bags.
Contents
- Why a leather weekender?
- Choosing the right size
- Hand luggage requirements
- Practical features
- Care on the go
- Frequently asked questions
Why a leather weekender?
Nylon sports bags are light and cheap. Yet more and more travellers are choosing leather. Why?
Appearance: A leather weekender immediately gives a different impression than a sports bag. Whether you're arriving at a hotel, a business meeting or a friend's house: leather radiates quality and attention to detail.
Lifespan: A good leather weekender lasts for decades. The leather only grows more beautiful with use thanks to the patina that forms. A nylon bag looks worn out after a few years, but full-grain leather tells the story of your travels.
Sustainability: One quality bag you use for decades is more sustainable than buying a new cheap bag every few years. Less waste, less production, a better choice.
Choosing the right size
A weekender needs to be big enough for 2 to 4 days, but compact enough to carry easily. The ideal size usually lies between 45 and 55 litres.
What fits inside?
In a standard weekender of around 50 litres you can easily fit:
- 3 to 4 outfits
- Toiletry bag
- Shoes (in the handy separate compartment of the Beocca weekenders)
- Laptop or tablet
- Book or e-reader
- Chargers and small accessories
Too big vs. too small
A bag that's too big tempts you to take too much and becomes awkwardly heavy. A bag that's too small causes stress when packing. Measure in advance what you normally take for a weekend and choose on that basis.
Hand luggage requirements
A major advantage of a weekender is that you can take it as hand luggage. No waiting at the baggage carousel, no risk of lost luggage, and often cheaper flights because you don't have to book hold luggage.
Standard hand luggage dimensions
Most airlines apply a maximum of 55 x 40 x 23 cm for hand luggage. Note: this can vary by airline, so always check before you book.
| Airline | Max. dimensions | Max. weight |
|---|---|---|
| KLM | 55 x 35 x 25 cm | 12 kg |
| Transavia | 55 x 40 x 25 cm | 10 kg |
| Ryanair | 55 x 40 x 20 cm | 10 kg |
| EasyJet | 56 x 45 x 25 cm | No limit |
The Milo weekender is designed specifically to fit within hand luggage limits. You needn't worry at the gate.
Practical features
What you can't do without
Sturdy zips: A broken zip in the middle of your trip is a nightmare. Quality zips such as YKK are worth the investment. They run smoothly, close properly and last for years.
Comfortable carrying strap: You carry this bag on your shoulder through the train, across the airport and through the city. A wide, padded shoulder strap makes a world of difference with a full bag.
Reinforced base: The base of your bag takes the most wear. Setting it on the ground, sliding it into the luggage rack, leaning it against chairs. A reinforced base protects the contents and ensures your bag stays upright.
Handy extras
Shoe compartment: A separate compartment for shoes keeps your clothing clean and fresh. Especially handy if you bring trainers or worn shoes.
Outer pockets: For your passport, phone or boarding pass. Quickly accessible without opening the whole bag at security.
Detachable shoulder strap: Gives you flexibility. Use the shoulder strap on the go and carry it by the handles at the hotel.
Care on the go
Leather asks for a little attention, even while travelling. A few simple tips:
Rain: Full-grain leather is water-resistant, but not waterproof. Your bag will survive a rain shower just fine, but don't leave it standing in the rain for hours. Dry it off with a cloth if it has got wet.
Stains: Dab spills immediately, don't rub. Most stains on vegetable-tanned leather become less noticeable as the leather develops its patina.
Storage: Don't cram your bag into a cupboard. Let it keep its shape by storing it lightly filled or stuffed with paper. You'll find more care tips on our leather care page.
Frequently asked questions
Is a leather weekender suitable as hand luggage?
Yes, provided the dimensions fall within your airline's limits. Most weekenders are designed with hand luggage in mind. Always check your airline's specific requirements before departure.
How heavy is a leather weekender?
An empty leather weekender usually weighs between 1.5 and 2.5 kg, depending on the size and the type of leather. Keep this in mind with hand luggage that has a weight limit.
How do I care for my leather weekender?
Treating it regularly with a natural leather conditioner keeps the leather supple. Protect it from prolonged exposure to water and direct sunlight. With normal wear, the leather only grows more beautiful.
Which weekender do you recommend?
The Milo weekender is our choice for short trips. Roomy enough for a long weekend, compact enough as hand luggage, and made from full-grain vegetable-tanned leather. Available in cognac and green.
Our weekenders
Every Beocca weekender is made from full-grain, vegetable-tanned leather with YKK zips and a padded shoulder strap. Handmade, shipped free, with 30 days of free returns.
- Milo weekender: roomy travel bag, suitable as hand luggage
- View all products
Unsure about the size or the model? Send us a message and we'll advise you personally.
