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

The Louis Vuitton Montsouris BB and Montsouris PM share the same timeless backpack design, but their key difference is functionality driven by size. The BB is a compact, chic mini-backpack for daily essentials, while the PM is a larger, more practical option capable of holding a small laptop or tablet, making it better suited for work or travel.

Here’s everything you need to know to choose the right Montsouris backpack from Louis Vuitton for your needs.

Louis Vuitton Montsouris BB

The Montsouris BB ("Baby Bandoulière") is the smallest version in the collection, offering a stylish and compact solution for carrying daily necessities. Its mini-backpack silhouette is perfect for city outings and casual wear, blending Louis Vuitton's iconic aesthetic with the practicality of a hands-free bag. It features the signature flap, buckle, and drawstring closure, along with a top handle for versatile carrying options.

• What it is: A compact luxury backpack designed to hold just the essentials, like a phone, wallet, keys, and small personal items.
• Key features: Measures approximately 9.4 x 11.8 x 4.7 inches (24 x 30 x 12 cm), weighs around 1.3 pounds (0.6 kg), and includes a main compartment and an interior flat pocket.
• Price: Around $1,950 USD
• Materials/Construction: Crafted from Louis Vuitton's durable Monogram or Damier coated canvas with natural cowhide leather trim and gold-tone hardware.
• Sizing/Fit: Ideal for smaller frames or anyone seeking a lightweight, non-bulky bag. The adjustable shoulder straps ensure a comfortable fit.
• Pros: Lightweight and easy to carry, chic and fashionable silhouette, versatile carrying options (backpack or top handle), less expensive than the PM size.
• Cons: Limited capacity - will not fit a tablet or laptop, smaller opening can make it hard to access items at the bottom, not ideal for work or travel.

This backpack is an excellent choice for a minimalist who values style and wants a high-end, hands-free bag for everyday errands, brunch, or nights out.

Shop this product: us.louisvuitton.com/eng-us/products/montsouris-bb-epi-002123

Louis Vuitton Montsouris PM

The Montsouris PM ("Petit Modèle") is the larger, more functional counterpart to the BB. It maintains the same elegant design but offers significantly more interior space, making it a practical choice for work, school, or travel. While still retaining a sleek profile, the PM can accommodate more than just the basics, including a small laptop, a document folder, or an extra sweater.

• What it is: A medium-sized luxury backpack designed for those who need more storage capacity for daily use, work, commuting, or as a sophisticated travel carry-on.
• Key features: Measures approximately 11.8 x 14.2 x 6.3 inches (30 x 36 x 16 cm), weighs around 1.8 pounds (0.8 kg), and features a larger main compartment with multiple interior pockets.
• Price: Around $2,350 USD
• Materials/Construction: Made from the same high-quality coated canvas (Monogram or Damier) with leather trim and premium hardware as the BB.
• Sizing/Fit: A good fit for most body types and is comfortable for all-day wear, even when filled with heavier items like a small laptop and books.
• Pros: Spacious interior fits a small laptop or tablet, highly versatile for work, school, and travel, more organized with multiple pockets, still looks stylish and not overly bulky.
• Cons: Higher price point, can feel too large for those who prefer mini bags, heavier than the BB even when empty.

This is the go-to option for anyone who needs a stylish backpack that can transition seamlessly from the office to the weekend and carry more than just essentials.

Shop this product: us.louisvuitton.com/eng-us/products/montsouris-pm-epi-002124

Montsouris BB vs. Montsouris PM Comparison

Size & Capacity

The most important difference is capacity. The Montsouris BB measures 9.4 x 11.8 x 4.7 inches, which is perfect for your phone, a slim cardholder, keys, and a lipstick. It is undeniably a mini-backpack designed for light, essentials-only days.

In contrast, the Montsouris PM dimensions of 11.8 x 14.2 x 6.3 inches open up a world of possibilities. It can comfortably hold a 13-inch laptop, a notebook, a makeup bag, a water bottle, and other daily items. Its capacity makes it a true workhorse, suitable for commuting or as your personal item on a flight.

Style & Aesthetic

While both sizes feature the same classic backpack design, their size dramatically influences their overall look. The Montsouris BB reads as a trendy, fashion-forward accessory. It's a statement piece that functions as a small handbag, adding a touch of laid-back luxury to any outfit. Its petite proportions make it feel more delicate and ornamental.

The Montsouris PM strikes a balance between a utilitarian backpack and a luxury staple. It looks functional and purposeful without sacrificing elegance. It’s a sophisticated choice for a professional, a student, or a stylish parent who needs space and organization. It feels less like a trend item and more like a long-term, practical investment.

Price & Value

The Montsouris BB retails for around $1,950, while the PM is priced at approximately $2,350. The $400 difference is substantial but directly corresponds to the increased size, materials, and functionality of the PM model.

Value depends entirely on your needs. If you're looking for a mini-backpack and won't use the extra space, the BB offers better value as you're getting the Louis Vuitton craftsmanship and style for a lower price. However, if you need a bag that can function in professional or travel settings, the PM's versatility and capacity provide far greater long-term value, justifying its higher cost.

Who Each One Works Best For

The Montsouris BB is best suited for individuals who prioritize style and want a light, hands-free alternative to a small crossbody or handbag. It's perfect for weekend outings, evenings, and for anyone who typically carries very little. It's also an excellent choice for a first luxury backpack due to its lower entry price.

The Montsouris PM excels for those who lead a busier lifestyle. This includes students carrying books and tablets, commuters who need to transport a laptop, and travelers looking for a chic and secure carry-on. Its practical size means it can handle nearly any daily scenario, making it the more pragmatic choice for most people.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both Montsouris backpacks are excellent pieces of craftsmanship, but they serve very different purposes.

Choose the Montsouris BB if:

• You primarily carry just essentials: phone, wallet, keys, and lipstick.
• You want a trendy, compact backpack that functions more like a chic handbag.
• You have a petite frame and prefer a bag that doesn't overwhelm your silhouette.
• You need a sophisticated bag for casual outings, date nights, or weekend shopping.

Choose the Montsouris PM if:

• You need to carry a small laptop (up to 13"), a tablet, or notebooks.
• You want a versatile backpack that's perfect for work, school, and travel.
• You prefer having extra space for items like a water bottle, makeup bag, or sweater.
• You are looking for a practical, everyday luxury bag that maximizes functionality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between the Louis Vuitton Montsouris BB and PM?

The main difference is size and capacity. The Montsouris BB is a mini-backpack for essentials only, while the Montsouris PM is a medium-sized backpack that can fit a small laptop and other daily items, making it more functional for work or travel.

Can the Montsouris PM fit a laptop?

Yes, the Montsouris PM is designed to fit a small laptop, typically up to 13 inches. It's always best to check the specific dimensions of your device against the bag's measurements (11.8 x 14.2 x 6.3 inches) before purchasing.

Which Montsouris size is better for everyday use?

This depends on your daily needs. If your "everyday" involves carrying a minimal amount, the Montsouris BB is perfect. If your "everyday" includes commuting to work or class with a laptop, books, or gym clothes, the Montsouris PM is the far better choice.

Is the Montsouris backpack comfortable?

Yes, both models are designed for comfort. They feature two adjustable leather straps that allow you to customize the fit to your body. The PM will naturally be heavier when full, but the weight distribution of the backpack design makes it more comfortable than carrying a heavy tote bag on one shoulder.

Is the Louis Vuitton Montsouris a good investment?

Louis Vuitton bags, particularly those in the classic Monogram or Damier canvas, tend to hold their value well over time. The Montsouris is a timeless design that offers both style and practicality, making it a sound luxury purchase that will likely remain in style for many years.

What fits inside the Montsouris BB?

The Montsouris BB can typically fit a smartphone, a small wallet or card case, keys, a lipstick, and perhaps a pair of sunglasses without their case. It is not large enough for a tablet or a standard-sized water bottle.

Are the leather straps durable?

Yes, the straps are made from Vachetta leather (on the Monogram version) or treated cowhide leather, which are known for their durability. With regular use, Vachetta leather will develop a beautiful honey-colored patina, which is a hallmark of a well-loved Louis Vuitton bag.

Which size is more popular, the BB or PM?

While popularity can fluctuate with trends, the Montsouris PM is often seen as the more practical and versatile choice, making it a consistently popular option. The BB's popularity often rises with the trend of mini bags and is a favorite among fashion-focused consumers.