Rimowa's Never Still Backpack Finally Makes Travel Backpacks Look Cool

SashaTravel2025-07-017920

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I stumbled upon Rimowa’s Never Still backpack the way many of us find new things we covet these days: via our Instagram algorithms. I can’t be sure exactly when I first saw this backpack, but it was at least two years ago, if not three, based on the release date of this holiday commercial: using a delightfully charming, anime-inspired illustration, the ad features the backpack being used more in everyday life than for traveling, which is actually unusual for Rimowa given how travel-specific the brand has always been.

I don’t actually use a backpack much on a daily basis. I'll admit to being a bit of a snob about this, especially after living in Europe for a few years, but I've always shunned the idea of wearing a backpack while sightseeing. It screams “I'm a tourist,” and most travel backpacks lean toward pure efficiency without any consideration to design or style.

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But it is incredibly useful having a backpack with a belt for luggage straps already sewn on so it can sit securely on top of a carry-on suitcase while moving through an airport or train station. It’s also helpful having a backpack, versus a shoulder tote or crossbody bag, when I need to grab my suitcase and then throw my bag over both shoulders more securely, and then speed up for the gate in the case of a close connecting flight.

Never Still Flap Backpack

$1725.00 at skimresources.com

As I mentioned, I stared at this backpack longingly for about two years. Why? One, it's practical but mod-ish. It's perfectly appropriate whether I'm traveling for business or pleasure.

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But then there's the price tag: $1,725. Yes, that might sound like an outrageous number for a backpack. The aluminum suitcases, by comparison, which are larger and more durable and arguably more beautiful, look like a bargain. And yet I kept coming back to the website over and over again to look at all of the details—most critically, the 5.2 gallons of volume, which for traveling means I can easily fit my MacBook Air as well as a Canon EOS R mirrorless camera with a 24-105mm lens as well as my travel wallet, a water bottle, my toiletry bag, and so on. For someone who travels with carry-on only bags and never checks a bag, having an efficient “personal item” is critical.

I’m not someone who splurges easily, so it took about two years of staring to finally take the plunge. And so instead of spending just the aforementioned amount, I decided to go for broke and buy the Never Still backpack and the Essential Cabin carry-on suitcase in one fell swoop. (As someone who is neurodivergent, I love a matching set. In fact, I need it. It minimizes decision fatigue, so call it a soothing travel hack.) I could not be more pleased that I bought this backpack. I don’t feel like I ever have to force or stuff anything in here. Everything I need to pack has its proper place inside.

Also note that the backpack comes in two sizes: small and large, but I highly recommend just going for the large. Even at 5’3”, I was pleasantly surprised when I tried the large version at the Rimowa Store on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré in Paris, it did not overwhelm me. Also for only a $200 price difference, I don’t think the lost space is worth it. Go big or stay home.