Louis Vuitton Montsouris Backpack PM vs. MM: Which size is right for you?

The Louis Vuitton Montsouris Backpack PM and the larger Montsouris Backpack MM serve different needs based entirely on their size. The PM is the smaller, more compact version designed for daily essentials, acting as a chic alternative to a handbag, while the MM offers significantly more space, easily fitting a small laptop and other necessities for work, school, or travel.

Here's a detailed look at both sizes to help you decide which Louis Vuitton backpack is the right investment for you.

Louis Vuitton Montsouris Backpack PM

The Montsouris Backpack PM (Petit Modele) is the smaller of the two, offering a streamlined and stylish silhouette perfect for everyday use. It's designed for those who want the functionality of a backpack without the bulk, making it an excellent choice for city commuting, daily errands, and casual outings where you only need to carry your essentials.

• What it is: A compact luxury backpack in iconic Louis Vuitton canvas with leather trim, designed for carrying daily essentials in style.
• Key features: Drawstring and magnetic buckle closure, a zipped front pocket for quick access items, adjustable leather straps, and an interior flat pocket.
• Dimensions: 10.8" L x 13.0" H x 5.5" W
• Capacity: Ideal for a wallet, phone, keys, small cosmetics bag, and an iPad Mini or a small book. It will not fit a standard laptop.
• Price: $2,710
• Sizing/Fit: Its smaller frame is lightweight and sits comfortably on the back without feeling overpowering, making it suitable for all body types, including petite frames.
• Pros: Lightweight and easy to carry all day. Sleek, minimalist design that pairs well with many outfits. Perfect size for essentials without encouraging overpacking. Top-handle provides carrying versatility.
• Cons: Limited capacity means it's not suitable for work or school if you need a laptop. May be too small for those who prefer to carry more than the bare necessities.

This backpack is suited for the person who values style and portability over maximum capacity and uses their bag for daily non-work activities.

Shop this product: us.louisvuitton.com/eng-us/products/montsouris-pm-monogram

Louis Vuitton Montsouris Backpack MM

The Montsouris Backpack MM (Moyen Modele) is the larger, more functional option in the lineup. It provides more interior space to accommodate bigger items like a small laptop, notebooks, and a water bottle, making it a highly practical choice for work, school, or as a sophisticated travel carry-on.

• What it is: A medium-sized luxury backpack designed for those who need more storage for work, travel, or busy daily schedules.
• Key features: Same as the PM, including the drawstring and magnetic buckle closure, adjustable leather straps, and zipped front pocket, but with a more spacious main compartment.
• Dimensions: 12.6" L x 15.0" H x 6.3" W
• Capacity: Comfortably fits a 13-inch laptop, A4 documents, a notepad, a water bottle, and other daily essentials. A much more versatile interior space.
• Price: $2,870
• Sizing/Fit: This is a more substantial bag. While comfortable, its larger size is more noticeable on the back and may feel too large for very petite individuals who prefer a smaller profile.
• Pros: Highly versatile, works as a work bag, personal item for flights, or an everyday carry-all. Fits a small laptop and other daily work necessities. Offers excellent capacity without being overly bulky. Great value for the increased utility.
• Cons: Can feel heavier and larger, especially for those with smaller frames. The increased size makes it less of a minimalist accessory and more of a functional bag. Slightly higher price point.

This is the clear choice for anyone needing a functional, do-it-all luxury backpack that can transition from the office to the weekend.

Shop this product: us.louisvuitton.com/eng-us/products/montsouris-mm-monogram

Montsouris PM vs. MM Comparison

Capacity & Dimensions

The most significant difference is what fits inside. The Montsouris PM measures 10.8" x 13.0" x 5.5", perfect for your keys, wallet, phone, and maybe a small tablet like an iPad Mini. It's strictly for essentials.

In contrast, the Montsouris MM, at 12.6" x 15.0" x 6.3", crosses into work bag territory. Its main compartment is large enough for a 13-inch laptop, A4-sized folders, and a reusable water bottle, giving it far greater utility for professional or academic use.

Comfort & Wearability

Both backpacks feature adjustable leather straps for a comfortable fit, but their on-the-back feel is distinct. The PM is lightweight and compact, feeling almost like an extension of your body. You can wear it for hours while shopping or exploring a city with minimal fatigue.

The MM is naturally heavier, and once filled with a laptop and other items, its weight is more noticeable. While it's still comfortable for daily commuting, its size and potential weight make it less suited for leisurely, all-day activities compared to the nimbler PM.

Price & Value

The MM costs $160 more than the PM ($2,870 vs. $2,710). While not a small difference, the value proposition leans heavily in favor of the MM if you need the extra capacity. The ability to carry a laptop transforms it from a simple day bag into a truly versatile accessory for work, travel, and daily life, easily justifying the marginal price increase for many users.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both backpacks are beautiful and expertly crafted, but they are built for different purposes.

Choose the Montsouris PM if:

• You want a sophisticated backpack strictly for daily essentials.
• You prioritize a lightweight, compact feel over carrying capacity.
• You have a petite frame and prefer bags that aren't overpowering.
• You plan to use it for weekend outings, shopping, or as a chic alternative to a purse.

Choose the Montsouris MM if:

• You need to carry a small laptop (up to 13 inches) or tablets for work or school.
• You want one versatile luxury bag that works for the office, daily use, and travel.
• You tend to carry more than just the basics, like a water bottle, notebook, or an extra layer.
• The added functionality and space are worth the slightly larger size and higher price.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between the Louis Vuitton Montsouris PM and MM?

The primary difference is size and capacity. The PM is smaller, designed for daily essentials, and cannot fit a laptop. The MM is larger, can hold a 13-inch laptop, and serves as a more functional bag for work, school, or travel.

Can the Montsouris PM fit a laptop?

No, the PM is too small to fit a standard laptop. It can, however, accommodate a small tablet such as an iPad Mini.

Can the Montsouris MM fit a laptop?

Yes, the Montsouris MM is designed to comfortably fit up to a 13-inch laptop, making it a great choice for professionals and students.

Which Montsouris size is better for travel?

The MM is generally better for travel as it can serve as a personal carry-on item and hold more in-flight necessities, including a laptop, chargers, a book, and a water bottle.

Are the Montsouris backpacks comfortable?

Yes, both sizes are designed for comfort. They feature adjustable leather shoulder straps that allow you to customize the fit. The PM is lighter and more comfortable for extended, casual wear, while the MM remains comfortable even when carrying heavier loads like a laptop.

What are the dimensions of each backpack?

The Montsouris PM measures 10.8" L x 13.0" H x 5.5" W. The Montsouris MM measures 12.6" L x 15.0" H x 6.3" W.

Is the leather trim on the Montsouris backpack durable?

Louis Vuitton uses Vachetta leather for the trim on its classic Monogram bags. This leather is untreated and develops a beautiful, rich patina (a darker honey color) over time with use and exposure to sunlight. While durable, it is susceptible to water spots and stains, so it requires mindful handling.

How do you style the Montsouris backpack?

The Montsouris is very versatile. The PM is perfect for casual chic looks - think jeans, a classic trench coat, and sneakers. The MM can be styled similarly but also works well for smart-casual business looks due to its size and structure.