Cotton canvas backpacks - timeless and practical
Our unique backpacks made of robust cotton canvas are perfect companions for life's adventures - big and small. Inspired by the honest and functional designs of the 19th century, they embody the spirit of true explorers, when travel still meant adventure. Let yourself be inspired by the authenticity and timeless charm of our handmade canvas backpacks.
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What is a canvas backpack?
A canvas backpack is more than just a simple carrying case for your personal items. It is made of canvas fabric, a particularly robust and durable material that is often made of high-quality cotton. Canvas was originally used for sails and tents, which underlines its durability and versatility. Thanks to its robust properties and comfortable fit, a canvas backpack is an ideal companion for various situations. Whether for exploring the city, hiking in the great outdoors or as a fashion statement: a canvas backpack offers the perfect mix of functionality and aesthetic elegance.
What is a good size for a canvas backpack?
The question of the ideal size of a backpack for men and women depends on various factors and varies according to your individual needs. For everyday use, such as the way to work, university or a short day trip, a backpack with a volume of 15 to 25 liters is usually sufficient. It offers enough space for a notebook, books and other everyday items. However, if you are planning longer trips, special outdoor activities such as hiking and camping or if you need more storage space for your equipment, you should go for a model with a volume of 30 to 50 liters. Such backpacks offer additional functions such as multiple compartments and pockets and are tailored to the needs of adventurers and travelers.
Can I take a canvas backpack on the plane?
Yes, you can usually take a canvas backpack on a plane as hand luggage. It is important that the dimensions and weight of your backpack comply with the airline's guidelines. Most airlines have specific guidelines for the size and weight of hand luggage, which you can usually find on their website. It is advisable to check this information before your trip to avoid possible additional fees or complications.
In addition, you should make sure that you do not have any prohibited items in your backpack, such as liquids in containers over 100 ml or sharp objects. Also pay attention to the number of hand luggage items allowed, as some airlines can be very strict.
The advantage of a canvas backpack is its flexibility and adaptability. This makes it easier to place the backpack in the overhead compartment or under the seat. In addition, canvas backpacks are usually robust and durable, so they can withstand the stresses of air travel.
Which backpack models does DRAKENSBERG offer?
Daypacks:
These smaller backpacks are ideal for everyday use and can hold everything from books to a laptop. Their compact size makes them particularly practical for city trips and short excursions. Daypacks are also suitable as classic school backpacks or for university.
Hiking backpack:
Specially designed for outdoor activities, these backpacks often have additional compartments for water bottles, maps and other hiking supplies. Their ergonomic design offers maximum comfort, even on longer tours.
Laptop backpack:
These are specifically designed to safely carry a laptop and often have extra padding and special compartments for this purpose. They are ideal for commuters and students who are on the move a lot.
Vintage backpack:
Combining modern comfort with classic design and often made from materials like canvas and leather, these backpacks are perfect for those who value both style and functionality.
Rolltop backpack:
These have a roll-up closure on the top and are particularly suitable for cyclists or commuters. The roll-up closure allows for flexible adjustment of the volume and protects the contents from the weather.
Military backpack:
With a rugged, functional design, these backpacks are ideal for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. They often feature plenty of attachment loops and other tactical features for enhanced functionality.
What characterizes a vintage canvas backpack?
A vintage backpack for men and women is not just a fashion accessory, but a statement of timeless elegance and quality craftsmanship. What makes it special is the design and the materials, which are deliberately reminiscent of past eras. Natural and authentic materials such as canvas and leather are often used, which not only impress with their antique look, but also with their durability and robustness.
The craftsmanship of a vintage backpack is often carried out using traditional methods and in numerous work steps, which gives each item its own individual character. In addition, the old-fashioned design of these backpacks is usually based on historical models, such as old backpacks and style elements from times gone by, which gives them a timeless aesthetic and a special soul. In our shop you will find a large selection of backpack models with a vintage aesthetic.
Are DRAKENSBERG canvas backpacks waterproof?
Most of our canvas backpacks are not waterproof or water-resistant. The Adam and Dale models are made of waxed canvas and are water-repellent. These wax backpacks can withstand a lot of rain and are particularly dimensionally stable thanks to the wax incorporated into the outer material. For reasons of authenticity, we deliberately leave the rest of the range in its natural and non-impregnated state.
However, our items can be waterproofed relatively easily for everyday use and are then at least water-repellent. Colorless waterproofing sprays for leather and textiles are suitable for this, e.g. IMPRÄGNOL Universal Waterproofing Spray. Alternatively, our cotton fabrics can also be treated with wax. For example, with Dr. Gee's Waterproofing Wax. We recommend testing the wax on an inconspicuous area of the fabric according to the instructions before treating the entire bag. Please note: The color usually becomes 1-2 shades darker due to the waterproofing wax. In any case, a bag can only be 100% waterproof if it is made entirely of plastic.
What is the main difference in quality between DRAKENSBERG canvas backpacks and those of other brands?
The key difference in quality between DRAKENSBERG canvas backpacks and other brands lies in the consistent commitment to authentic quality and sustainability. While other brands often rely on synthetic fibers, thin, cheap and inferior goat leather or foam reinforcements, DRAKENSBERG focuses on pure, unadulterated materials.
Our canvas fabrics are made of 100% cotton, which not only feels comfortable to wear, but also guarantees durability. Instead of inferior goat leather, we only use high-quality, full-grain buffalo leather for the leather elements of each backpack. This premium leather is characterized by its robustness and natural skin structure, which gives each backpack a unique identity.
Another point is the processing of the leather. Many brands use foam reinforcement to give the product volume, but at DRAKENSBERG the leather is pure. No foam fillings, no cheating. We also avoid patchwork designs, which are often used to save leather. Our products show large areas of leather in their natural structure and beauty.
Finally, we do not rely on empty marketing promises. Our products speak for themselves. An authentic design that results from the combination of quality, functionality and style does not need exaggerated promises. At DRAKENSBERG you are investing in a piece of real craftsmanship that is durable, socially acceptable and sustainable.