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Choosing the perfect travel bag is no easy task and many female travelers have long loved the Rebecca Minkoff Julian backpack and Henri Bendel Jetsetter backpack. Unfortunately, Henri Bendel has now closed after 100 years in business. Below you’ll find out why women thought this was an awesome bag for travel and we’ve also provided alternative options to consider.
Rebecca Minkoff Julian vs Henri Bendel Jetsetter Backpack
Table Of Contents
Travel Fashion Girl help! A reader asks:
What’s better for travel – the Rebecca Minkoff Julian backpack or Henri Bendel Jetsetter convertible backpack? I usually either take a regular bag that I use at home or if going to an area with high theft/crowds I take my large Pacsafe crossbody, but it is not attractive. I was hoping for a comfortable and more stylish alternative.
If you’re a longtime TFG reader, you know how much we love the Rebecca Minkoff Julian backpack. We’ve even written an extensive review of the backpack. If you want to find out more why we love this backpack, watch this video. Before the brand went out of business, the Henri Bendel Jetsetter was an equally impressive bag.
Here, we compare the key features of each bag. At the end of the post, you’ll find alternatives to the Henri Bendel backpack.
Rebecca Minkoff Julian Backpack available in two sizes
Rebecca Minkoff Julian Backpack
The Rebecca Minkoff Julian backpack is one trendy bag. However, it’s also just as practical as it is stylish.
Julian Backpack features two side pockets
Basics
- Dimensions: regular size: 10” W x 14” H x 6” D; medium size: 8.5” W x 10” H x 7” D
- Material: leather, canvas, or nylon
- Opening Type: front loading
- Features: three exterior pockets (including one back “secret” pocket), three interior organizational compartments
- Security: exterior latch has the option to cover main zipper access when locked at the top ring, unofficial “secret” back pocket
Julian Backpack features a “secret” back pocket large enough for a passport
Style
The Rebecca Minkoff Julian backpack is a much more casual style bag. One reader says, “The Minkoff is more casual and sack like, with a boho feel.
As for the quality, look no further. One reader says, “The leather seems to be good quality and the bag is very practical. Worth every penny if you ask me.” Another says, “I would buy this again in a heartbeat.”
Julian Backpack can fit quite alot but doesn’t look bulky
Top Features
Our readers love the Rebecca Minkoff Julian backpack for its durability and style. One reader says, “I love the nylon Julian. I took it all over the Dolomites and Alps and it held up in rain!”
And even the leather version holds up with traveling. One reader said, “I have been using my leather Julian backpack the last two weeks we’ve been in Europe and it’s been amazing! It has been rained on quite a bit and held up very well.”
Readers also love how the pockets make it easy to keep your essentials organized. One reader says, “I love the ease of getting my items out around town. I especially love that as we’ve changed countries I can keep both our passports in the secret pocket against my back making me feel very safe! 15 days and counting of constant use and no regrets whatsoever.”
Watch this video to see how to use the Julian backpack as the only travel bag
for a one-week vacation!
Read our review or watch this video to find out more why we think Rebecca Minkoff Julian backpack is one of THE best purses for travel ever!
Henri Bendel Jetsetter Convertible Backpack 12″H X 13″W X 6″D; 5″ Handle drop
Henri Bendel Jetsetter Convertible Backpack
The Henri Bendel Jetsetter Convertible backpack was just as stylish as the Rebecca Minkoff Julian but it rocks a completely different vibe.
Jetsetter Convertible Backpack is durable, water resistant nylon with saffiano leather trim
Basics
- Dimensions: regular size: 12″ H X 13″ W X 6″ D; mini size: 10.5″ H X 11″ W X 5″ D
- Material: nylon or canvas
- Opening Type: top loading
- Features: full zippered closure, interior zippered pocket and pouch, exterior back pocket, convertible straps to wear as a backpack or crossbody
- Security: The bag fully zips at the top
Jetsetter Convertible Backpack with straps can be worn as a crossbody
Style
Many readers agree that this bag is very professional looking, so it’s perfect for those who love a classic style or who travel a lot for work. One reader says, “for me, the Jetsetter works better as a professional/work bag than an everyday around-town bag.”
The square shape and lock charm adds preppy details while the Saffiano leather trim elevates the nylon or canvas style.
You’ll want to look your best when you travel! Read my travel tips to Pack Light Stylishly!
Jetsetter Convertible Backpack Interior zippered pocket and pouch
Top Features
Most readers agree that the best thing about the Henri Bendel Jetsetter convertible backpack is its versatility. One reader says, “It’s my everyday bag for home and travel. I really like the convertible feature. Some museums don’t allow backpacks so all you have to do is convert it to a crossbody and you can avoid checking your bag at the door!”
Another adds, “The biggest advantage of the Jetsetter is convertibility. I found I didn’t like it as a backpack so I mainly used it as a satchel or crossbody.”
Readers also love this bag for how much it fits. One reader shares, “My mini thinks it’s a larger bag. It’s deep and holds more than you’d think.”
Find our our favorite cute backpacks for travel!
What’s the Better Bag for Travel?
Ultimately, it’s a tie between the two, and it all comes down to style preferences. The Rebecca Minkoff’s slouchier style gives it a casual and cool vibe, while the Henri Bendel is much more classic and preppy.
Additionally, consider whether or not you’ll want to use your bag as a crossbody. The Rebecca Minkoff Julian is a true backpack, while the Henri Bendel bag can be worn as a backpack or crossbody.
Your best bet is to try out both and wear them around the house to see which suits your style best!
Henri Bendel is out of business, here are alternative backpacks to consider:
Nylon Bags: Packable Backpack | Backpack Purse | Baggallini Backpack – reader’s favorite brand
Leather Bags: Fossil Convertible Backpack | Yaluxe Convertible Shoulder Bag | Vaschy Backpack Purse
Please note: Whichever purses you choose, always use additional anti-theft products like a bra pouch to hide the majority of your cash. Only carry the money in your wallet that you’ll need for the day. See a full listing of anti-theft products here!
What are your feedbacks on Rebecca Minkoff backpack vs. Henri Bendel convertible backpack? Comment and share!
For more travel bags, please read:
- Top Anti-theft Travel Bags for Women – Best Sellers!
- Best Travel Bags for Sightseeing: 5 Functional and Fashionable Styles
- 5 Functional and Cute Travel Cosmetic Bags
- Weekender Bag: 4 Stylish Bags for Short Trips
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I have the Rebbeca Minkoff backpack it is the best hands down it worth every penny. I absolutely love it and the hook and the back can be changed to make it extra safe if you have it on your back. I can’t believe how much I could fit in it. We just came back from Italy and the weather changes there every minute from steaming hot to pouring rain. I had a full-length raincoat that fit in comfortably. My husband thought I had lost my coat. I also had my new camera in there, plastic water bottle, my tablet, my phone and I could go on. I could wear it front or back. In addition to that, I received so many compliments because it is so stylish. When travelling it always helps to be hands-free.
Hi Fara, thank you so much for taking the time to share your review of the Rebecca Minkoff backpack! Hope you had a fantastic time during your trip to Italy! 🙂