About Tough Traveler

Designed & Manufactured in America Since 1970

Our Story: Over 50 Years of American Craftsmanship

Located in the historic industrial corridor of Upstate New York, Tough Traveler has been producing premium hand-crafted bags and packs since 1970. For more than five decades, our talented artisans have designed and manufactured everything from small pouches to large wheeled luggage, from innovative dog carrier backpacks to specialized guitar bags and professional equipment cases.

Our mission has remained constant: creating sustainable, ethically-made products built to last decades, not seasons. While the retail landscape has shifted toward imported, disposable goods, Tough Traveler proudly continues to set the standard for American manufacturing excellence, adhering to U.S. wage laws, environmental regulations, and quality standards that have defined our reputation for over 50 years.

The Tough Traveler Guarantee

🛡️ Lifetime Warranty Against Defects

We stand behind every product we make with a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects. If your Tough Traveler bag fails due to defective materials or workmanship, we'll repair or replace it. This isn't a marketing gimmick—it's our commitment to the quality we've maintained since 1970.

🔧 Low-Cost Repair Service

Even after decades of hard use, your Tough Traveler bag can be repaired. We offer affordable repair services for all our products at any time—whether it's a broken zipper, worn strap, or general wear and tear. Keep your bag in service for years to come instead of replacing it.

What Sets Us Apart

✓ 100% American Manufacturing
Every Tough Traveler product is designed, cut, and sewn in our Schenectady, New York facility by skilled craftspeople who take pride in their work.

✓ Premium Materials
We use industrial-grade fabrics like 1000-denier Cordura® and 400-denier Packcloth, heavy-duty YKK zippers, and high-strength webbing. Approximately 95% of our materials are sourced from American manufacturers.

✓ Built to Last Decades
Our bags are engineered for 20, 30, even 40+ years of reliable use. Many customers still use Tough Traveler bags purchased generations ago.

✓ Sustainable & Ethical
Domestic production means shorter supply chains, reduced environmental impact, fair wages, and support for American manufacturing jobs.

Trusted Across Industries

Baby & Child Carriers
Reviewed and recommended by Child Magazine, Outside, Backpacker, Baby Bargains, and more. Sold by major retailers including REI, EMS, and L.L. Bean. Our carriers accompanied Tom Whittaker on his historic first disabled ascent of Mt. Everest, carrying his daughter to base camp.

Travel Bags
Featured in Kiplinger's, Family Travel Forum, Good Housekeeping, and praised by travelers worldwide for durability and thoughtful design.

Dog Carriers
Our innovative Dog Perch™ backpacks have hiked mountains and explored trails around the world with countless happy customers and their four-legged companions.

EMS & Professional Bags
Trusted by first responders, medical professionals, and emergency personnel for decades. Our EMS bags were used at the Lake Placid Winter Olympics and continue to serve ambulance crews, doctors, and nurses who demand reliability in critical situations.

Tough Traveler bag at Lake Placid Olympics Museum
Visit the Lake Placid Olympic Museum to see our bag on display!

Exceptional Customer Service

When you purchase from Tough Traveler, you're investing in more than a product—you're gaining a partner committed to your satisfaction. Our knowledgeable staff can answer virtually any question about our products, and we typically ship orders within 1-2 business days with email tracking.

30-Day Satisfaction Guarantee: If your order isn't exactly what you want, return it in new condition within 30 days for a full refund of the purchase price.

Who We Serve

We proudly serve consumers, associations, agencies, and businesses worldwide. Whether you're a family seeking reliable travel gear, a professional needing specialized equipment cases, a business looking for corporate bags, or an organization requiring custom manufacturing, we have the expertise and capacity to meet your needs.

From babies to seniors, outdoor enthusiasts to urban commuters, even pets—everyone can find the perfect Tough Traveler bag. Contact us for quantity pricing and custom manufacturing services.

Tough Traveler facility in Schenectady, NY

Contact Us

Telephone: 1-800-GO-TOUGH (1-800-468-6844)
E-mail: service@toughtraveler.com

Tough Traveler Ltd.
1012 State Street
Schenectady, NY 12307

We're here to answer your questions about products, repairs, custom orders, and more.

Experience the difference that over 50 years of American craftsmanship makes.
Choose Tough Traveler—built to last, made with pride, backed for life.