Louis Vuitton Palm Springs PM vs. MM: Which size is right for you?

The Louis Vuitton Palm Springs PM is a compact, chic backpack ideal for daily essentials, while the larger Palm Springs MM offers significantly more room for everything from a tablet to travel necessities. The main distinctions are size, interior capacity, and a price difference of about $270, making the MM the more versatile but bulkier option.

Here’s a complete look at both backpacks to help you decide which iconic Louis Vuitton style fits your life.

Louis Vuitton Palm Springs PM

The Palm Springs PM (Petit Modele) is the smaller of the two, embodying a sleek and minimalist vibe perfect for an everyday luxury backpack. It's designed for those who carry just the essentials - wallet, phone, keys, and a few small cosmetics - without wanting the weight or bulk of a larger bag.

• What it is: A compact, stylish backpack crafted from Louis Vuitton's iconic Monogram coated canvas.
• Key features: Measures approximately 11.4 x 9.8 x 4.7 inches (29 x 25 x 12 cm). Features a top handle, adjustable leather shoulder straps, a front zippered pocket, and a flat inside pocket.
• Price: Approximately $1,780 USD.
• Materials/Construction: Durable Monogram coated canvas with natural cowhide leather trim that develops a unique patina over time. The interior has a soft textile lining.
• Sizing/Fit: Its smaller frame is ideal for daily wear or for those with a petite build. It holds essentials perfectly but will not comfortably fit larger items like a standard tablet or water bottle.
• Pros: Lightweight and easy to carry. Chic, streamlined silhouette pairs well with casual and refined outfits. More approachable price point for a luxury backpack.
• Cons: Limited capacity isn't suitable for work or travel. Can't hold a laptop or standard-sized iPad. Small interior can get crowded quickly.

This backpack is ideal for city outings, weekend errands, and anyone who prefers to travel light with a highly recognizable yet functional accessory.

Shop this product: louisvuitton.com/products/palm-springs-pm-monogram

Louis Vuitton Palm Springs MM

The Palm Springs MM (Moyen Modele) is the noticeably larger and more functional sibling, offering ample space that transitions from a daily carry-all to a travel companion. This size is built for those who need to carry more, whether it's for work, a weekend trip, or as a sophisticated parent bag.

• What it is: A spacious and versatile medium-sized backpack made from Louis Vuitton's signature Monogram canvas.
• Key features: Measures approximately 13.8 x 11.4 x 6.3 inches (35 x 29 x 16 cm). Includes all the features of the PM but with substantially more interior volume.
• Price: Approximately $2,050 USD.
• Materials/Construction: The same durable Monogram coated canvas and natural cowhide leather trim, ensuring longevity and the brand's signature luxury feel.
• Sizing/Fit: This size comfortably accommodates larger items like an iPad, a small laptop, a water bottle, and a change of clothes, making it a true utility piece.
• Pros: Excellent capacity for travel, work, or daily use. Highly versatile as a carry-on, work bag, or even a diaper bag. Offers a more substantial, statement-making presence.
• Cons: Noticeably heavier and bulkier than the PM. The larger size may feel overwhelming on smaller frames. Higher price point.

The MM is a wonderful choice for anyone seeking a functional, spacious luxury piece that serves multiple purposes without sacrificing style.

Shop this product: louisvuitton.com/products/palm-springs-mm-monogram

Louis Vuitton Palm Springs PM vs. MM Comparison

Size & Capacity

The most important difference is, of course, the size. The Palm Springs PM is a true small backpack, perfect for your phone, cardholder, keys, sunglasses, and a lip balm. It forces you to be a minimalist. While it can feel somewhat restrictive, its compact nature is also its main advantage for quick trips around town.

The Palm Springs MM opens up a world of possibilities. You can easily fit a full-size iPad, a book, a makeup bag, a water bottle, and even a small sweater or scarf inside. This extra space makes it suitable as a personal carry-on for flights or as a daily work bag if you don't need a large laptop.

Style & Aesthetic

While both sizes feature the same iconic design, their dimensions give them a different feel. The PM is undeniably chic and trendy. Its small scale reads more like a structured handbag that you happen to wear on your back, making it a fashion-forward accessory that completes an outfit.

The MM has a more classic, utilitarian backpack look due to its larger size. It still carries the luxury weight of the Louis Vuitton brand, but its presence is more about function than pure style. It won't look out of place with a casual outfit, but it feels more purposeful and can sometimes look bulky on a more petite frame.

Comfort & Wearability

The PM weighs around 1.4 pounds empty, making it incredibly comfortable for all-day wear. You'll barely notice it on your back, which is perfect for days involving lots of walking, like sightseeing or shopping. The straps are fully adjustable to find the perfect fit.

The MM is heavier at around 1.9 pounds empty, and that difference becomes more pronounced once you fill it. While the padded straps help distribute weight, it's a more substantial bag to carry. For someone needing the space, the added weight is a fair trade-off for the increased capacity. However, if you're sensitive to heavy bags, this is an important factor to consider.

Price & Value

With an approximate $270 price difference, the choice comes down to utility. If you only need a small bag for essentials, the PM offers the complete Louis Vuitton experience and iconic style for less. It delivers excellent value as a pure-fashion accessory.

The MM, though more expensive, arguably provides more "value" in terms of versatility. Its ability to function as a travel bag, work tote, and everyday carry-all means you might get more use out of it across different scenarios. If you want one bag that can handle multiple roles, the MM’s higher initial cost may be justified.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both backpacks are excellent investments, but they are designed for very different lifestyles and needs.

Choose the Palm Springs PM if:

• You prefer to carry only the bare essentials (phone, wallet, keys).
• You are looking for a lightweight, chic backpack that feels more like a handbag.
• You have a petite frame and worry about larger bags looking overwhelming.
• You want an iconic and fashionable accessory for daily errands, brunch, or casual evenings.

Choose the Palm Springs MM if:

• You need to carry larger items like a tablet, book, or water bottle.
• You want a versatile backpack that can be used for work, travel, or a weekend away.
• You don't mind a slightly heavier, bulkier silhouette in exchange for ample storage.
• Functionality and capacity are your main priorities in a luxury bag.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between the Palm Springs PM and MM?

The primary difference is size and capacity. The PM is a small "mini" backpack for daily essentials, while the MM is a medium-sized backpack designed to hold more, including tablets and travel necessities.

Can the Palm Springs PM fit an iPad?

The PM can sometimes fit an iPad Mini, but it's a very tight squeeze and not recommended. It cannot fit a standard-sized iPad or laptop.

Is the Palm Springs MM suitable as a personal item for flights?

Yes, the MM is a perfect size for a personal item on most airlines. It fits comfortably under the seat in front of you and has enough space for in-flight essentials.

Are Louis Vuitton Monogram canvas bags durable?

Yes, the Monogram coated canvas is famous for its durability, scratch resistance, and water resistance, making it an excellent material for an everyday bag that can withstand regular use.

How much does each backpack weigh?

The PM weighs approximately 1.4 pounds (0.65 kg), and the MM weighs around 1.9 pounds (0.86 kg) when empty.

Does the natural cowhide leather trim require special care?

Yes, the Vachetta leather trim is untreated and will develop a golden-brown patina over time. It is sensitive to water, oils, and dirt, especially when new. Many owners choose to let it age naturally, but you can be careful to keep it away from rain.

What do "PM" and "MM" stand for?

In French, "PM" stands for "Petit Modele" (Small Model), and "MM" stands for "Moyen Modele" (Medium Model). This naming convention is used across many Louis Vuitton handbag styles.

Which size is more popular?

Both sizes are very popular, but for different reasons. The PM is often seen as a trendy, fashion-forward piece, while the Palm Springs MM is a long-term functional staple for those who need more from their bag.