The global bags market, once bruised by the COVID-19 pandemic, is making a strong comeback—driven by a resurgence in travel, evolving lifestyle habits, and rising consumer spending. According to UnivDatos, the market is expected to grow at a CAGR of around 6.3% during 2021–2027. This rebound comes on the heels of a sharp decline in 2020 when lockdowns and global travel restrictions significantly impacted sales, especially in travel-related segments like backpacks and trolley bags.

As we move deeper into the post-pandemic world, changing demographics, lifestyle aspirations, and the pursuit of innovative materials are influencing consumer choices. Whether it’s a student choosing a stylish backpack or a corporate traveler investing in durable luggage, bags are becoming a fusion of functionality and fashion.

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The Pandemic Dip: A Temporary Setback

The bags industry experienced a major disruption in 2020 as global travel and tourism came to a halt. Retailers saw sales plummet, and in the U.S. alone, retail bag sales dropped by nearly 60% compared to 2019. Physical stores, especially those dependent on foot traffic from malls, airports, or tourist zones, were hit hardest—with many shutting permanently due to rental costs and declining traffic.

Global manufacturers and distributors reported a 40-45% decline in sales during this time. Business travel was also heavily affected, with global business travel expenses shrinking by 52%, and corporate travel spending in the U.S. alone declining by $94 billion. The decline in student attendance at physical schools and universities further dampened demand in the children and youth segments.

Revival in Travel and Tourism: A Catalyst for Growth

With vaccination programs implemented worldwide and borders reopening, travel and tourism have seen a robust revival, directly boosting the demand for bags. Backpacks and trolleys are once again seeing growing demand among:

·        Tourists resuming vacations

·        Business travelers returning to in-person meetings

·        Students rejoining campuses

·        Digital nomads and hybrid workers traveling frequently

The growth of international migration and remote working culture has also fueled the need for multi-functional bags that balance both style and utility.

Urbanization and Lifestyle Changes Driving the Market

Beyond travel, other socioeconomic shifts are boosting the global bags market:

1. Urban Living and Work Commutes

As cities grow denser and work becomes more mobile, consumers need bags that are:

·        Lightweight and ergonomic for daily commutes

·        Compact enough for metro or bike rides

·        Equipped with compartments for gadgets and chargers

This trend is particularly visible in Asia-Pacific and North America, where high-density urban environments are redefining daily routines.

2. Demand for Innovation

Consumers now expect more from their bags—durable, stylish, tech-friendly, and sustainable. Innovations such as polycarbonate bags, anti-theft backpacks, and bags with USB charging ports are gaining traction.

Brands are also investing in materials like polyester and nylon, known for being lightweight, water-resistant, and cost-effective. These materials, especially polyester, dominate the market due to their widespread usage and accessibility across price points.

Product Segmentation: Backpacks Lead the Charge

Based on product type, the global bags market is segmented into:

·        Backpacks

·        Handbags, Wallets & Purses

·        Duffle & Gym Bags

·        Sling & Crossbody Bags

·        Others

Among these, backpacks are leading the market, a trend expected to continue through 2027. Their popularity stems from:

·        The increase in student enrollment worldwide

·        Air travel and tourism resurgence

·        Rising fashion trends among young adults

·        Gender-neutral utility, with growing demand in both men’s and women’s segments

Additionally, the growing demand for small carry-on luggage—especially in Europe and North America—is driving innovations in this category.

Material Trends: Polyester Bags Take the Spotlight

Material choice has a big impact on price, durability, and appeal. The market segments bags into:

·        Polyester

·        Nylon

·        Leather

·        Cotton Canvas

·        Others

Polyester bags dominate the market due to their affordability, versatility, and resistance to wear and tear. Leather continues to hold prestige in the premium and luxury category, while cotton canvas bags attract eco-conscious consumers.

Prices vary widely—ranging from $25 to over $1,200 in the U.S.—depending on brand, material, design, and function.

Who’s Buying? The Rise of the 20+ Age Group

The end-user segmentation includes:

·        5 to 12 Years

·        13 to 19 Years

·        20 Years & Above

Unsurprisingly, the 20 years & above segment is the dominant buyer group. This is mainly attributed to:

·        Increased business travel post-pandemic

·        Personal travel and vacations among adults

·        College and university students returning to physical classes

·        The rise in lifestyle purchases of bags as fashion accessories

This demographic has both the need and the purchasing power, especially in urban and working-class populations in regions like North America, Europe, and APAC.

Sales Channels: Store-Based Retail Still Dominates

Distribution channels for bags include:

·        Store-Based (Supermarkets, Hypermarkets, Specialty Stores)

·        Non-Store Based (Online Platforms)

Store-based retail remains the dominant distribution method, particularly in developing regions where consumers prefer seeing and feeling the product before buying. However, online sales are growing rapidly, thanks to:

·        Broader product variety

·        Competitive pricing

·        Home delivery convenience

·        Social media marketing and influencer campaigns

Global brands are increasingly adopting omnichannel retail strategies, combining in-store and digital touchpoints to maximize reach and revenue.

Regional Dynamics: North America at the Forefront

Geographically, the bags market is segmented into:

·        North America (U.S., Canada)

·        Europe (Germany, U.K., France, etc.)

·        Asia-Pacific (China, India, Japan, Australia, etc.)

·        Rest of the World

In 2020, North America led the global market, driven by:

·        High disposable income

·        Brand consciousness

·        Recovery in domestic and international travel

·        Strong retail and e-commerce networks

According to earlier data, U.S. retail sales of travel/sports bags touched nearly $6 billion in 2016—a number expected to rise sharply in the post-pandemic era. Additionally, households with higher income are 34% more likely to purchase branded bags.

Competitive Landscape: Leading Brands and Innovators

Prominent players operating in the global bags market include:

·        Samsonite International SA

·        Nike, Inc.

·        Adidas AG

·        VF Corporation

·        Puma SE

·        Louis Vuitton

·        Delsey

·        Herschel Supply Company

·        Jensen Lee

·        Belmil

These companies are focusing on product innovation, sustainability, and global expansion to stay competitive.

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Conclusion: A Resilient Market Set for Dynamic Growth

The global bags market has not only bounced back from the pandemic slump but is also evolving to meet changing consumer needs. Factors like the travel rebound, lifestyle upgrades, urbanization, and product innovation are fueling a new growth phase.

While backpacks and polyester bags remain strong pillars, future growth will also be driven by sustainability, e-commerce, and demographic shifts. With a steady CAGR projected through 2027, brands that align with modern expectations—value, convenience, and style—will emerge as winners in this fast-moving market.

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