How Tough Traveler Keeps American Craftsmanship Alive in New York
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 in the military. 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.
✨ 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.
