Louis Vuitton Keepall 50 vs. 55: Which size is right for you?

The main difference between the Louis Vuitton Keepall 50 and the Keepall 55 is their size and travel purpose. The Keepall 50 is a more compact, sleek bag that is almost always carry-on compliant, making it ideal for overnight trips or light packers, while the Keepall 55 offers significantly more packing space for weekend getaways but can be borderline for stricter airline carry-on size limits.

Here is a detailed guide to help you decide which iconic Louis Vuitton duffle is the right investment for your travel style.

Louis Vuitton Keepall 50

The Louis Vuitton Keepall 50 is the second smallest size in the Keepall family, designed as the perfect sophisticated bag for short trips or overnight stays. Its refined proportions and ease of carrying make it a favorite for those who value both style and practicality. The compact footprint ensures it's easy to maneuver through busy airports and fits comfortably in the overhead compartment of most airplanes, solidifying its status as a reliable travel companion.

• What it is: A luxury duffle bag with a 50-centimeter length, classic styling, and a focus on portability for short-term travel.
• Key features: Crafted from signature Monogram canvas, natural cowhide leather trim, double-zip closure, textile lining, and an internal zipped pocket. Can be purchased as a "Bandoulière" with a removable shoulder strap.
• Price: Around $2,200 USD
• Sizing/Fit: Measures 50 x 29 x 23 cm (Length x Height x Width). Its size is generally accepted as a carry-on by most major airlines worldwide.
• Pros: Lightweight and easy to manage, guaranteed carry-on compliant, holds its shape well even when not fully packed, sleek and proportional look.
• Cons: Limited packing space may not be enough for a full weekend, can feel small for chronic over-packers, not ideal for packing bulky items like boots.

This size works perfectly for the minimalist traveler on a one-to-two-night trip or as a supremely stylish gym or day bag.

Shop this product: louisvuitton.com/products/keepall-50-monogram-014123

Louis Vuitton Keepall 55

The Louis Vuitton Keepall 55 is arguably the most popular and versatile size in the collection. It offers a noticeable increase in packing volume compared to the 50, making it a true weekend bag that can comfortably accommodate several outfits, an extra pair of shoes, and toiletries. While still designed for carry-on use, its larger dimensions push the limits on some stricter or smaller regional airlines, but it's largely considered the go-to size for stylish weekend getaways.

• What it is: A larger, more capacious version of the classic Keepall duffle, with a 55-centimeter length designed for weekend trips.
• Key features: Made with signature durable Monogram canvas, features natural cowhide trim, handles, a roomy main compartment, and double-zip closure. Also available in the Bandoulière style with a shoulder strap.
• Price: Around $2,300 USD
• Sizing/Fit: Measures 55 x 31 x 24 cm (Length x Height x Width). Fits most standard airline carry-on regulations but can be a tight squeeze and may not comply with budget airline limits.
• Pros: Excellent capacity for weekend trips, more versatile for different types of packing, offers great value for the small price increase over the 50, classic size.
• Cons: Can become heavy and bulky when fully packed, might be rejected as a carry-on on smaller planes or by strict airlines, can look slouchy if not packed full.

This bag is made for the traveler who needs flexible packing space for two-to-four-day trips and wants the quintessential luxury weekender.

Shop this product: https://www.louisvuitton.com/products/keepall-55-monogram-014124

Louis Vuitton Keepall 50 vs. Keepall 55 Comparison

Size & Capacity

The 5-centimeter difference in length between the Keepall 50 and the Keepall 55 translates to about a 15-20% increase in volume. This is the difference between packing for a quick overnight stay and packing for a full three-day weekend. The Keepall 50 is perfect for a couple of outfits and the essentials. The Keepall 55 provides enough room for multiple outfits, an extra pair of shoes, and a larger toiletry bag without feeling strained.

Most importantly for air travel, the Keepall 50 almost never faces scrutiny as a carry-on. The Keepall 55, while often accepted, might occasionally be flagged by gate agents on smaller aircraft or particularly restrictive airlines. If you frequently fly on budget carriers or regional jets, the 50 offers more peace of mind.

Portability & Handling

When packed, the difference in handling is noticeable. The Keepall 50 remains relatively light and manageable, making it easy to carry through long airport terminals or lift into an overhead bin. Because it's larger and can hold more, the Keepall 55 can become significantly heavier. If you tend to over-pack, the weight of a full Keepall 55 can be cumbersome, and opting for the Bandoulière version with a shoulder strap becomes a necessity.

Style & Aesthetics

Both bags are iconic and timeless. The primary aesthetic difference comes down to proportion and structure. The Keepall 50 maintains its classic duffle shape very well, even when not completely full, giving it a neater, more structured appearance. The Keepall 55 has a more relaxed, slouchy look unless it's packed tightly, which some people love for its casual elegance. Your choice may depend on whether you prefer a tidier silhouette or a more substantial, statement-making bag.

Price & Value

The price difference between the two sizes is typically only around $100. From a pure capacity-per-dollar standpoint, the Keepall 55 offers better value. However, the true value lies in how you'll use the bag. If the Keepall 55's extra space will go unused or makes the bag too heavy for you to carry comfortably, the smarter purchase is the Keepall 50, as its practicality better suits your needs.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both Keepall sizes are excellent investments, but they serve two distinct types of travelers.

Choose the Keepall 50 if:

• You primarily take one or two-night trips.
• You are a light packer who travels with efficiency.
• You want to be 100% certain your bag will qualify as a carry-on, no matter the airline.
• You prefer a bag that is lightweight, easy to handle, and holds its shape.

Choose the Keepall 55 if:

• You need a dependable bag for three to four-day weekend trips.
• You tend to pack an extra pair of shoes or bulkier clothing items.
• You mostly fly on major airlines or are comfortable with occasionally having to gate-check your bag.
• You want the most versatile and popular size in the Keepall line.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between the Keepall 50 and 55?

The main difference is the size and resulting packing capacity. The Keepall 55 is 5 cm longer and offers about 15-20% more interior space, making it better for weekend trips, while the Keepall 50 is more compact and ideal for overnight stays.

Is the Louis Vuitton Keepall 55 carry-on approved?

Generally, yes. The Keepall 55 fits the carry-on baggage dimensions for most major international airlines. However, for smaller regional jets or budget airlines with very strict size limits, it may be considered slightly too large and require gate-checking.

Can the Keepall 50 be used for a full weekend trip?

For a very minimalist packer, yes. It can typically hold two outfits, a pair of flat shoes, and basic toiletries. If you're traveling for a weekend to a warm climate where clothes are less bulky, the 50 can certainly work.

What does "Bandoulière" mean for Keepall bags?

"Bandoulière" means "shoulder strap" in French. A Keepall Bandoulière is the version of the bag that comes with a detachable and adjustable leather shoulder strap, allowing for hands-free carrying. Both the Keepall 50 and 55 are available in this style.

Which size is more popular?

Historically, the Keepall 55 has been the most popular size due to its versatility and reputation as the perfect weekender. However, as airline restrictions have gotten tighter, the Keepall 50 has gained considerable popularity for its guaranteed carry-on convenience.

Does the Vachetta leather require special care?

Yes. The natural cowhide leather (Vachetta) on the handles and trim is untreated. It is sensitive to water, oils from your hands, and sunlight, which causes it to darken over time and develop a unique honey-colored patina. Many owners embrace this aging process, but you should avoid handling it with lotions on your hands and protect it from rain to prevent water spots.

Which size holds its shape better?

The Keepall 50 naturally holds its shape better due to its more compact dimensions. The Keepall 55 has a tendency to sag in the middle if it is not packed fully, giving it a more relaxed look.

How much more does the Keepall 55 cost?

Typically, the Keepall 55 costs about $100 more than the Keepall 50 in the same material. Prices can fluctuate slightly based on the specific material (e.g., Monogram, Damier Ebene) and any special editions.