Louis Vuitton Keepall vs. Bandoulière: Which one should you buy?

The core difference between the Louis Vuitton Keepall and the Keepall Bandoulière is a single, crucial feature: the Bandoulière version includes a removable and adjustable shoulder strap, while the classic Keepall does not. This seemingly small distinction changes everything, making the Bandoulière a versatile, hands-free travel companion and the classic Keepall an elegant, hand-carried duffle. The addition of the strap also comes with a higher price tag and a slight design variation to accommodate the attachment points.

Here’s everything you need to know to decide which iconic Louis Vuitton travel bag is the right investment for you.

Louis Vuitton Keepall

The original Louis Vuitton Keepall is the quintessential luxury duffle bag. Launched in the 1930s, its design is clean, timeless, and immediately recognizable. Carried by its elegant double Toron handles, this bag epitomizes classic travel style. It's designed for those who appreciate simplicity and the refined aesthetic of a traditional, hand-carried piece of luggage, perfect for weekend getaways or car trips where you won't be schlepping your bag through a sprawling airport.

• What it is: An iconic, lightweight travel duffle bag designed to be carried by hand with its two leather top handles.
• Key features: Signature Monogram or Damier canvas, Vachetta leather trim and handles, spacious single interior compartment, and often includes a luggage tag and lock set.
• Price: Starts at approximately $2,350 for the Keepall 45 in Monogram canvas, with prices increasing for larger sizes like the 50 and 55.
• Sizing/Fit: Available in standard sizes 45, 50, 55, and 60, indicating the bag's length in centimeters. Size 45 is the most popular for carry-on use.
• Pros: A more minimalist and classic look, slightly lighter weight due to less hardware, lower price point compared to the Bandoulière.
• Cons: Lacks a shoulder strap, which can be cumbersome if the bag is heavy or if you need your hands free while traveling. Not ideal for navigating large airports or train stations on foot.

This bag suits the purist who values the original, clean design and typically travels in a way that doesn't require carrying a bag for long distances.

Shop this product: louisvuitton.com/en-us/products/keepall-45-monogram

Louis Vuitton Keepall Bandoulière

The Keepall Bandoulière follows the same fundamental design as the original but enhances it with practical, modern functionality. The word "Bandoulière" means "shoulder strap" in French, which is its defining feature. The bag includes a removable, adjustable leather strap that can be worn on the shoulder or crossbody, along with an extra strip of leather trim along the side for a slightly more structured look and added hardware D-rings to attach the strap.

• What it is: A modern, more versatile version of the Keepall travel bag featuring a removable shoulder strap for multiple carrying options.
• Key features: Includes all features of the classic Keepall plus an adjustable, multi-piece Vachetta leather shoulder strap and side leather bands for hardware attachment.
• Price: Starts at approximately $2,700 for the Keepall Bandoulière 45, making it around $300-$400 more expensive than its strapless counterpart.
• Sizing/Fit: Offered in the same sizes (45, 50, 55, and 60). The strap makes even the larger, heavier sizes much more manageable to carry.
• Pros: Extremely versatile with hands-free carrying options, significantly more comfortable when the bag is heavy or for long-distance carrying, modern functionality meets classic design.
• Cons: Higher price point due to the strap and extra hardware, slightly heavier, and the added leather strap requires care to maintain an even patina.

This is the ideal option for the modern traveler who prioritizes convenience, comfort, and versatility without sacrificing luxury style.

Shop this product: louisvuitton.com/en-us/products/keepall-bandouliere-45-monogram

Keepall vs. Keepall Bandoulière Comparison

Design & Convenience

While sharing the same duffle silhouette, the two bags serve different functional purposes. The classic Keepall has a clean, uninterrupted side profile and relies entirely on its top handles. This is elegant but can be impractical if you're rushing to a gate with a coffee in one hand and your phone in the other. It’s a bag that works best for quick car-to-hotel trips.

The Keepall Bandoulière, however, is built for movement. The shoulder strap offers immediate hands-free convenience, making it the superior choice for navigating airports, cities, and public transport. The added leather strip along the side where the strap attaches also gives it a slightly more structured and casual appearance compared to the classic version.

Price & Value

The classic Keepall is the more accessible option, typically costing several hundred dollars less than the Bandoulière version in the same size and material. If your travel style doesn't require a shoulder strap, the classic model offers excellent value, delivering the full iconic look and Louis Vuitton quality for less.

The Bandoulière's higher price point directly reflects its added functionality. For frequent travelers, the extra cost is often justified by the comfort and convenience it provides. Essentially, you're paying a premium for versatility, turning a beautiful piece of luggage into a highly practical travel tool.

Sizing & Capacity

Both models come in the same sizes: 45, 50, and 55 are the most common. A size 45 is generally accepted as a carry-on for most airlines, perfect for a weekend trip. A 50 can also work as a carry-on but might be scrutinized on smaller planes. The 55 is decidedly a week-long travel bag that often needs to be checked.

The key difference is how manageable these sizes are. Carrying a fully packed Keepall 55 by its handles can be taxing. However, a Keepall Bandoulière 55 becomes significantly easier to manage when carried on the shoulder, distributing the weight more comfortably.

Who Each One Works Best For

The classic Keepall is perfectly suited for the traveler who values timeless tradition. It’s ideal for weekend getaways, road trips, or any situation where the bag won't be carried for extended periods. It appeals to someone who loves the clean, uncluttered aesthetic of the original 1930s design and doesn't need the hands-free option.

The Keepall Bandoulière is for the practical globetrotter. If you frequent airports, use public transportation, or often find yourself wishing you had an extra hand while traveling, this is the bag for you. It's the go-to choice for those who need their luxury luggage to be as functional as it is beautiful.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both bags are excellent investments in style and quality, but they cater to different travel needs and styles.

Choose the Keepall if:

• You prioritize the classic, minimalist aesthetic over functionality.
• Your travel is often from car to hotel, with minimal walking involved.
• You want the iconic Keepall look at a more accessible price point.
• You travel light and don't typically pack your duffle until it's very heavy.

Choose the Keepall Bandoulière if:

• You travel frequently through airports, train stations, or city streets.
• You value the convenience of having a hands-free carrying option.
• You plan on buying a larger size (50 or 55) that can get heavy when packed full.
• You believe the added versatility is worth the higher upfront investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between the Keepall and Keepall Bandoulière?

The only functional difference is the Bandoulière model's included removable, adjustable shoulder strap. This makes it a more versatile bag for travel. The classic Keepall only has top handles for hand-carrying.

Is the Bandoulière strap worth the extra money?

For most frequent travelers, yes. The ability to carry the bag on your shoulder or crossbody frees up your hands and makes navigating busy spaces much easier, which many find invaluable. If you rarely carry your own luggage for long, it might not be a necessary expense.

Which size Keepall should I get?

The Keepall 45 is the most popular size and is small enough to be a carry-on on virtually all airlines. The Keepall 50 is a great option for a longer weekend but may push carry-on limits. The Keepall 55 is best for longer trips and will likely need to be checked in.

Can the Keepall 45 be used as a personal item?

No, the Keepall 45 is too large to qualify as a personal item which fits under the seat. It is perfectly sized as a standard carry-on bag for the overhead bin.

Is it possible to add a strap to a classic Keepall later?

While you can buy third-party conversion kits, the classic Keepall does not have the D-rings needed to attach a strap securely. Doing so with aftermarket clips could put stress on the handle hardware, which wasn't designed for that purpose, and potentially damage the bag.

Which is more popular, the classic Keepall or the Bandoulière?

In recent years, the Keepall Bandoulière has become more popular due to its increased practicality for modern travel habits. However, the classic model remains a staple for luxury aficionados who appreciate its original, minimalist design.

How durable is the Louis Vuitton Monogram canvas?

The canvas is famously durable, lightweight, waterproof, and resistant to scratches. It was designed specifically for travel and can withstand decades of use with proper care, which is why vintage Louis Vuitton luggage is still so popular.

What is Vachetta leather?

Vachetta is an untreated and unprotected cowhide leather that Louis Vuitton uses for the trim, piping, and handles on most Monogram bags. Over time, it develops a deep honey-colored patina as it is exposed to sunlight and oils from your hands, a characteristic cherished by enthusiasts.