Pacsafe Lifestyle Backpacks S/S 2026 Preview

Retail Buyers Guide: Lifestyle Backpacks S/S 2026 Retail Buyer’s Guide
Brand: Pacsafe
Interviewee: Maria Schmieder – Marketing Coordinator

What trends are currently shaping the lifestyle backpack market (e.g., tech integration, modularity, minimalism)?
Security, Functionality, Organization, Design/Color and above all sustainability. Minimalist design with clever compartments, security features and sustainable materials are no longer optional – they’re expected.

How do you see the role of lifestyle backpacks evolving in the context of hybrid work, travel, and everyday carry?
We see lifestyle backpacks becoming versatile companions that support commuting, remote work, and spontaneous travel. People are looking for bags that are sleek enough for the office, functional enough for day trips, and safe enough for city streets or international airports. The backpack has evolved into a multi-purpose tool that bridges personal and professional life – and that’s exactly where Pacsafe’s DNA lies.

What role does storytelling or brand lifestyle play in selling backpacks today?
Storytelling is essential. Consumers want to connect with a brand’s purpose and values, not just its products. At Pacsafe, our story is rooted in travel security – we were founded by travelers, for travelers, and that mission of enabling safe exploration continues to resonate. Today, our storytelling also includes sustainability, ethical production, and how our community uses our products around the world.

How are retail channels (DTC, wholesale, e-commerce) shifting for lifestyle backpacks, and how is your brand adapting?
The shift towards DTC and e-commerce has accelerated, but wholesale remains a vital pillar. We’re investing in a hybrid strategy: strengthening our e-commerce platform, refining our brand experience online, and supporting wholesale partners with digital assets, training, and sell-through tools.

How are global trade issues—such as tariffs, shipping costs, or customs regulations—impacting your lifestyle backpack business strategy and supply chain?
Like many, we’ve faced increased logistic costs and supply chain uncertainties. However, we’ve responded by optimizing sourcing practices and building stronger relationships with our partners. Being part of a global business requires agility, and we’re constantly evaluating how to minimize risk and ensure product availability without compromising our social and environmental responsibility or quality.

About the Brand:

What is your brand’s vision when it comes to lifestyle backpacks, and how does it reflect your overall identity?
Pacsafe’s vision is to empower people to explore the world safely. Our lifestyle backpacks embody that by offering cutting-edge anti-theft features, smart organization, and sustainable innovation – all wrapped in a design that fits both urban and travel contexts. We blend functionality with purpose, staying true to our roots in safety while evolving with modern consumer needs.

How do you integrate sustainability into your lifestyle backpack line — from sourcing to end-of-life?
Sustainability is central to our design process. We use recycled fabrics, bluesign®-approved materials, and PFC-free water-repellents. We also aim for durability, extending product lifespans to reduce waste. Every step we take moves us closer to our goal of minimizing our environmental footprint while maximizing positive impact.

How do you differentiate your lifestyle backpacks in terms of design, materials, or functionality? How do urban use and outdoor functionality influence your backpack designs?
Our key differentiator is security – Pacsafe backpacks are engineered with various patented anti-theft technologies like lockable zippers, cut-resistant materials, and RFID-blocking pockets. We design for everyday use in urban settings while ensuring robustness and comfort for outdoor functionality. Lightweight, sustainable materials, ergonomic support, and flexible storage systems ensure our bags perform wherever life takes you.

How are you segmenting your SS26 lifestyle backpack collection and what are the price points?
For SS26, we’re segmenting our collection into Urban Essentials, Travel Daypacks, and Active Commuter Lines – all with clear use-case storytelling. Price points range from €90 to €180, depending on feature set, capacity, and technical components. The focus remains on delivering value through smart design and peace of mind.

How will you be supporting retailers with the SS25 sales?
Our retailers are supported individually, e.g., POS material, printed or digital material for marketing purposes, resp. their websites, in-person visits by our agents to ensure partners stay informed throughout the season.

Key Products:

Pacsafe GO Totepack – style#35190:
Made from recycled PET with a PFC-free water-repellent shell, this versatile bag shifts easily between tote and backpack. A padded sleeve protects 16″ laptops, while dual compartments, side pockets, and internal attachment points keep essentials organized. With built-in anti-theft technology and a luggage slip for smooth travel, it’s the smart choice for secure, everyday carry.

Pacsafe GO Totepack_JetBlack_Product shot

Pacsafe V12L Tech Backpack – style#61140:
This compact 12L backpack, made from recycled PET, combines everyday function with trusted anti-theft technology. A padded sleeve protects an 11″ tablet, while mesh pockets in the front compartment keep accessories like chargers and cables organized. With its taller profile and slim design, it offers just the right amount of space—without the bulk.

Pacsafe V 12LTechBackpack_Black_Product shot

Pacsafe V 20L City Backpack – style#61150:
Crafted from recycled PET with a PFC-free water-repellent shell, this 20L backpack blends urban versatility with travel-ready features. A hidden, lockable compartment protects 16″ laptops, while multiple internal pockets, a quick-access card slot, and a luggage slip offer smart organization. With built-in anti-theft technology, adjustable straps, and intuitive storage, it’s designed for comfort, security, and seamless mobility.

Pacsafe V 20LCityBackpack_DigitalGray_Product shot