Talk to us now by clicking on the chat button on the bottom right. Live (human!) representatives are available at most times. Or, use one of the following methods:

Tough Traveler Factory Store:
1012 State Street
Schenectady, NY 12307
Tough Traveler Store Tel: (518) 393-0168
Or: 1-800-GO-TOUGH
1-800-468-6844

STORE WALK-IN HOURS:
Monday - Friday: 11am - 3pm
Weekends & Evenings by arrangement.
Just let us know when you'd like to come!

service@toughtraveler.com

All online orders are shipped within one business day. 

We ship locally & worldwide!

In an era when so many products are mass-produced overseas, Tough Traveler stands as a rare and enduring example of American craftsmanship. From its factory in Schenectady, New York, this family-owned company has been handcrafting backpacks, luggage, and specialty bags since 1970—and it’s still going strong today.

✂️ A Legacy of Handmade Quality

Tough Traveler was born out of a simple frustration: Mark Goldstein, after returning from military service in Alaska, realized that civilian packs weren’t built to the standards he was accustomed to. He began designing durable, comfortable backpacks using heavy-duty materials, and soon a business was born.

More than 50 years later, the company continues to make every bag in its Upstate New York factory. Each piece is sewn with meticulous attention to detail, reinforced with triple-stitching at stress points, and designed to withstand decades of use. Customers often share stories of bags that have lasted 30 or even 40 years—proof that durability is more than just a marketing slogan.

🧵 Craftsmanship Rooted in Community

Unlike most bag makers today, Tough Traveler has never outsourced production. Every product is made in Schenectady by skilled artisans, many of whom have been with the company for decades. This commitment not only preserves traditional sewing and design skills but also sustains good jobs in the local community.

As Mark's daughter & current president Umber Gold explains, the company’s mission is about more than just bags:

“The American-made manufacturing community is very important to us. We like to have good jobs for people of all skill levels.”

That philosophy has kept Tough Traveler deeply connected to its roots, even as it ships products to customers around the world.

🌍 Innovation Meets Tradition

While the company is steeped in tradition, it hasn’t stood still. Over the years, Tough Traveler has expanded its catalog to include:

• Travel luggage designed for durability and function
• Dog carrier backpacks that have become cult favorites among pet owners
• Specialty bags for musicians, cyclists, and photographers

This blend of innovation and craftsmanship has earned the company recognition at the White House Made in America Product Showcase and a New York State Senate Empire Award for its contributions to local manufacturing.

🏔️ Built for New York, Built for the World

Schenectady’s location—close to the Adirondacks, Catskills, and Berkshires—has always influenced the company’s designs. Tough Traveler bags are made for real use in rugged conditions, whether that’s a mountain trail, a city commute, or a trip across the globe.

And because they’re built to last, these bags embody a sustainable approach to consumer goods: buy once, use for decades, and pass it on.

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✨ Keeping Craft Alive

Tough Traveler is more than a bag company—it’s a living example of how craftsmanship, community, and innovation can thrive together. In a world of disposable products, its Schenectady factory hums with the sound of sewing machines, carrying forward a tradition of American-made quality that refuses to fade.

In New York, Tough Traveler isn’t just keeping craftsmanship alive—it’s proving that it can still lead the way.

A Photographic History:

 
Our current building                   ---------------    Our then building in the 1970s!

 

 
Designer Christian Timm at work  --- A student team works with our staff to design a new bag

 

 
Cutters Joe Mahabir & Dewan Singh

 

 
Sewers Rebecca Daniels & Bonnie Cox

Bibi Lodin demonstrates techniques for a school tour

6)

 
Shipper Lakshmi Singh

Is this the 70s or 80s? Not quite sure!

Crew from Mister Roger's Neighborhood with Bonnie Cox --- Our Kid Carrier featured in a display at the Schenectady Museum of Science & Industry

 

Unidentified sewer in need of a nap

The crew has a party, circa 2000

We rely on our valued customers so that we can continue manufacturing in the USA!  As you probably know, it's faster and cheaper to buy an import, but you won’t get the same quality or standards.  So, we hope you’ll shop with us for all your bag & gift needs!

THE TOUGH TRAVELER WARRANTY:

Tough Traveler products are guaranteed to the original owner against any defect in workmanship or materials without any time limit. If failure occurs due to a manufacturing defect, even after extended use, we will, at our option, repair or replace the product. Zippers are specifically warranted for two years. Damage due to normal wear-and-tear, accident, or misuse is not covered by the warranty, but we are able to repair our products at a reasonable charge! All products must be sent back in a clean condition.

To get your product repaired, send it to:

Attn: Repairs
Tough Traveler
1012 State St
Schenectady, NY 12307

 

THE TOUGH TRAVELER RETURN POLICY:

If you wish to return your purchase for any reason, simply send it back within 30 days of the delivery date for a full refund of the purchase price. Exchanges can be made up to 90 days from the delivery date.

All returns must be clean and undamaged.  

Gift certificates, discounted, altered, made-to-order, & custom-made products are not returnable.

Request a return label by emailing your order number to service@toughtraveler.com or by opening up a chat request.  The cost of the return label will be deducted from your refund. You may also mail your return to:

Attn: Returns/Exchanges
Tough Traveler
1012 State St
Schenectady, NY 12307

 

All items except custom typically ship within one business day. Expedited and international shipping available.