Louis Vuitton Flanerie 45 vs. 50: Which size is right for you?

The Louis Vuitton Flanerie 45 and Flanerie 50 are stylish travel companions that differ primarily in size and capacity. The Flanerie 45 measures 17.7 inches long, making it a versatile choice for weekend trips or as a spacious daily tote, while the Flanerie 50 is a larger bag at 19.7 inches long, designed specifically for longer getaways where extra packing space is essential. Though discontinued, both remain highly sought-after on the pre-owned market for their practicality and timeless Monogram canvas.

Here is everything you need to know to decide which Flanerie size is the perfect match for your travel style and needs.

Louis Vuitton Flanerie 45

The Louis Vuitton Flanerie 45 is the smaller of the two, offering the perfect balance between a spacious carry-all and a manageable travel bag. Its dimensions make it an ideal companion for weekend trips, overnight stays, or even as an exceptionally chic gym bag or oversized daily tote for those who carry a lot.

• What it is: A versatile and luxurious travel bag from Louis Vuitton's Flanerie collection, sized for short trips and multi-purpose use.
• Key features: Dimensions are approximately 17.7" L x 11.8" H x 7.9" W. Features include signature Monogram coated canvas, Vachetta leather trim, dual top handles, a removable shoulder strap, and a top zip closure for security.
• Price: As this is a discontinued model, pricing on the pre-owned market ranges from approximately $1,200 to $2,500 depending on condition.
• Materials/Construction: Crafted from durable Monogram coated canvas with natural cowhide leather (Vachetta) trim and handles. Features classic gold-tone brass hardware.
• Pros: More versatile for non-travel uses like a work or daily tote, easily qualifies as a carry-on and often a personal item on flights, compact and easier to carry.
• Cons: Limited capacity for trips longer than two days, might be too small for heavy packers, only available on the pre-owned market, Vachetta leather requires careful maintenance.

This size provides great flexibility for those who want a single luxury bag that can serve for short getaways, work, and errands equally well.

Shop this product: Available on pre-owned luxury marketplaces.

Louis Vuitton Flanerie 50

The Louis Vuitton Flanerie 50 is a dedicated travel bag designed for those who need more room. With two extra inches in length and over an inch in height compared to its smaller counterpart, it offers significantly more packing space, making it perfect for 3-5 day trips without being overly bulky.

• What it is: A larger, travel-focused bag from the Flanerie collection, designed to be a spacious and elegant carry-on with a classic duffle silhouette.
• Key features: Dimensions are approximately 19.7" L x 13" H x 8.7" W. It shares the same features as the 45, including Monogram canvas, Vachetta trim, functional strap options, and a secure zipper.
• Price: Also discontinued, the Flanerie 50 typically costs between $1,500 and $3,000 on the resale market, often slightly more than the 45 due to its larger size.
• Materials/Construction: Built with the same durable Monogram coated canvas and Vachetta leather, promising longevity and the classic Louis Vuitton aesthetic.
• Pros: Ideal capacity for multi-day trips (3-5 days), excellent as a standalone carry-on, offers ample space for clothing and an extra pair of shoes. It is extremely spacious and holds its shape well.
• Cons: Can become heavy when fully packed, may be too large and cumbersome for daily use, not as versatile as the 45, requires finding a well-maintained version on the secondary market.

It's the ultimate choice for the frequent traveler who values generous packing space and wants a classic, reliable luxury carry-on.

Shop this product: Available on pre-owned luxury marketplaces.

Flanerie 45 vs. Flanerie 50 Comparison

Dimensions & Capacity

The primary difference is size. The Flanerie 45 (17.7" x 11.8" x 7.9") is perfectly suited for a weekend, easily fitting a couple of outfits, toiletries, and small electronics. Its proportions often allow it to pass as a "personal item" on some airlines, in addition to your main carry-on. Its structured shape ensures you can maximize the space without the bag looking overstuffed.

The Flanerie 50 (19.7" x 13" x 8.7") provides that crucial extra room for longer trips. Those two extra inches in length translate to approximately 10-15% more interior volume - enough for an extra pair of shoes, a bulky sweater, or several more days of clothing. This size squarely fits into the carry-on baggage category for most major airlines but is too large to be considered a personal item.

Practicality & Use Cases

Versatility is where the Flanerie 45 shines. It transitions beautifully from a travel bag to an oversized daily tote. If you need a bag that can go from the office on Friday straight to a weekend trip, the 45 is the obvious choice. It looks stylish but not out of place during daily errands or commuting.

The Flanerie 50 is a purpose-built travel bag. While undeniably luxurious, its larger size makes it less practical for daily use unless you require maximum capacity. It excels as a carry-on for vacation or business trips, serving as a more sophisticated alternative to a standard roller bag.

Style & Portability

Both bags exude classic Louis Vuitton elegance, but their size impacts how they are carried. The Flanerie 45 is more tote-like - easier to manage and less bulky, making it a good fit even for more petite frames. It comfortably sits on the shoulder or can be carried by its top handles without overwhelming your silhouette.

The Flanerie 50 has a more pronounced presence. It looks and feels like a travel duffle. When fully packed, it can be heavy, and carrying it for extended periods through an airport is best done with the shoulder strap. It makes a bigger statement and is instantly recognizable as a piece of serious travel gear.

Price & Availability

Since both the Flanerie 45 and 50 are discontinued, they are exclusively found on the pre-owned market. Pricing depends almost entirely on the bag's condition, particularly the state of the Vachetta leather trim. Generally, the Flanerie 50 commands a slightly higher price than the 45 in comparable condition due to its larger size and higher original retail price. Availability for both can vary, so patience is key to finding one in excellent shape.

Which One Should You Choose?

The right choice comes down to how you plan to use the bag most often.

Choose the Flanerie 45 if:

• You primarily take short trips of 1-2 nights.
• You want a multi-purpose bag that works for travel, work, and daily errands.
• You prefer a more manageable size that is lighter to carry.
• You want a bag that often qualifies as a personal item, allowing you to bring another carry-on.

Choose the Flanerie 50 if:

• You routinely travel for 3-5 days at a time.
• You need a dedicated, spacious carry-on bag for your travel wardrobe.
• You prioritize maximum packing capacity over everyday versatility.
• You are looking for a true alternative to a rolling carry-on suitcase.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between the Flanerie 45 and 50?

The primary difference is size and capacity. The Flanerie 50 is about 2 inches longer and 1.2 inches taller, offering significantly more space designed for longer trips, while the Flanerie 45 is more compact and better suited for weekends or daily use.

Can the Louis Vuitton Flanerie 45 be used as a carry-on?

Yes, absolutely. The Flanerie 45 fits well within standard carry-on and even personal item dimensions for most airlines. Always double-check your airline's specific requirements before you fly.

Is the Louis Vuitton Flanerie 50 too big for a carry-on?

No, the Flanerie 50 is designed to be a carry-on bag and meets the sizing requirements for almost all major airlines. It is, however, too large to be considered a personal item.

Are the Flanerie bags still in production?

No, the Louis Vuitton Flanerie line has been discontinued. Both the 45 and 50 models are only available for purchase on the pre-owned luxury market.

How much can you fit in a Flanerie 45?

A Flanerie 45 can comfortably hold essentials for a 1-2 night trip, including a change of clothes, a sweater, a pair of shoes, a toiletry bag, and small electronics like a tablet.

What are the Flanerie bags made of?

Flanerie bags are constructed from Louis Vuitton's iconic and durable Monogram coated canvas, complemented by natural cowhide leather trim (Vachetta) and finished with gold-tone brass hardware.

Do Flanerie bags have a shoulder strap?

Yes, both the Flanerie 45 and 50 originally came with a removable and adjustable leather shoulder strap for versatile carrying options, though you should confirm it's included when buying pre-owned.

How do you care for the Vachetta leather trim?

Vachetta leather is untreated and will darken over time, developing a unique patina. To protect it, keep it away from water, oils, and lotions, which can cause spots. Many owners let it age naturally or use a gentle leather conditioner sparingly.

Which Flanerie size is more popular?

Both sizes have dedicated fans. The Flanerie 45 is often appreciated for its versatility, while the 50 is valued by serious travelers for its generous capacity. Popularity often follows personal need rather than one size being definitively better.