What is it with men and packing? We love to travel but, when it comes to choosing luggage and filling it with the essentials needed to ensure an enjoyable excursion, we suddenly head for the hills. “I don’t know how, the bag is too small/big/frilly, all I need is a bathing suit and some deodorant,” we whine.
Like most men, I hate packing. There is something about stuffing your belongings into an unsightly bag and lugging them around that irks me, or perhaps the luggage itself is really the problem. The only choices are the plastic-mold pieces that look like an ugly rock, tapestry ones that remind me of a rug, and the ubiquitous wheeled bags that everyone pulls behind them. Fortunately, I found a company that understands what men want in luggage. Not only is it functional and masculine, you’re also supporting third world artisans by buying it.
This line of stunning men’s baggage comes from NOVICA, an online Fair Trade Marketplace. They have been around for sixteen years, and work in association with National Geographic to offer thousands of ethically-sourced fashion statements that are hand-made or hand-crafted by artisans from around the world. These aren’t sweatshop products produced by underpaid laborers in wretched conditions; they are pieces of art that are produced by craftsmen who are paid a reasonable price for their work.
For quick trips, I like their soft brown Leather Travel Bag for $249.99. Crafted in supple leather, it looks great and leaves my clothes with a manly leather smell. A zippered pocket in the lined interior easily holds my toiletries and other small items. I carry it with the twin handles, or use the snap-on adjustable shoulder strap if I’ve got something else to hold.
When I’ve got a few more things to pack, I like their generous Weekend Bag, which sells for $269.99. Tooled of soft Mexican leather, this roomier bag also features discreet exterior pockets to safely stow extra belongings. This piece also comes with sturdy handles, a removable shoulder strap, and a lined interior with a zipper pocket.
For more adventurous trips, I rely on their hand-crafted, Mexican Leather Backpack, available for just $214.99. This is easier on the back than some of those aluminum pole contraptions you see. There is one pocket in the ample interior and another three more on the outside of the backpack. These close with snaps that are artfully concealed by decorative iron buckles. Yet another pocket is placed at the back, underneath the leather straps, for carrying papers or other items that need a bit more protection.
In addition to the terrific luggage, NOVICA also offers fashion items and accessories including a line of elegant men’s bracelets. My favorite is the handcrafted leather and brass “Happy” bracelet, because that’s how I feel now whenever I get a chance to travel. Finally…luggage that any guy would be proud to call his own – I think I’m in love.
@NOVICA
novica.com
