The Hermès Hac a Dos is a luxury backpack built on the shape of the historic Haut à Courroies — the tall, trapezoidal bag Hermès has made since the 1890s. It has the same angular lines and crossed leather straps as the original HAC, but worn over one shoulder instead of carried by hand. There are no visible logos. Most people won't recognize it unless they know Hermès bags.
Introduced around 2016, the Hac a Dos — French for "HAC on the back" — turns Hermès' oldest bag design into a backpack. It's for people who want a hands-free bag with Hermès leather and construction but don't want to carry a Birkin or Kelly.
The HAC Legacy
The Hac a Dos borrows its shape from the Haut à Courroies, a bag Hermès has made since the 1890s. The HAC was originally designed to transport riding boots and saddles — a tall, trapezoidal bag with leather straps across the top to hold everything in.
From Horse to Hand to Back
- 1892–1900s: Hermès creates the Haut à Courroies ("high belts") — a tall, trapezoidal bag with a flap secured by leather straps. It's purely utilitarian, designed for horsemen transporting gear.
- 1984: The Birkin is born from the HAC's proportions, adapted for Jane Birkin's request for a practical travel bag. The Birkin becomes a phenomenon; the HAC retreats to connoisseur status.
- 2016: Hermès introduces the Hac a Dos — literally "HAC on the back" — converting the classic silhouette into a single-strap backpack. The design preserves the HAC's angular lines while adding modern functionality.
- 2025: The Hac a Dos Multipockets variant debuts, adding two front pockets to the classic silhouette for enhanced organization.
The Hac a Dos tends to attract people who already own a Birkin or Kelly and want something they can actually wear on their back — same leather, same construction, less recognition. It's one of the few Hermès bags you can carry hands-free without it looking like a crossbody afterthought.
Design & Construction
The Hac a Dos keeps the HAC's angular shape, crossed straps, and turn-lock closure — just rotated so it hangs down your back instead of from your hand.
Key Design Elements
- Trapezoidal Shape
- The signature HAC silhouette — wider at the top, tapering toward the base. This angular geometry distinguishes it from the curved lines of the Bolide or Kelly.
- Crossed Leather Straps
- Two leather straps cross over the flap, secured by the turn-lock. This signature HAC detail references the original saddle-securing design.
- Turn-Lock Closure
- Hermès' classic turn-lock clasp in palladium secures the flap. No visible branding on the hardware — you have to know the turn-lock to recognize it.
- Single Shoulder Strap
- A wide, adjustable strap for over-the-shoulder carry. The PM features an all-leather strap; the GM has a padded canvas strap with leather trim for comfort.
- Interior Layout
- Leather-lined interior with one flat pocket for documents or a tablet. No other dividers or compartments — it's a single open space.
- Palladium Hardware
- Silver-tone finish on all metal elements. No logos or engravings on the outside — the only branding is stamped inside.
The 2025 Multipockets edition adds two exterior front pockets beneath the crossed straps — sized for a phone, cards, or keys. Same shape as the original, just with quick-access pockets so you don't have to unbuckle the flap for small items.
Sizes & Capacity
The Hac a Dos comes in two sizes. The PM holds a phone, wallet, and sunglasses. The GM holds a 13″ laptop and enough for a full day at the office.
| Dimension | PM (Petite Modèle) | GM (Grande Modèle) |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 18 cm (~7″) | 26 cm (~10″) |
| Height | 28 cm (~11″) | 36 cm (~14″) |
| Depth | 8 cm (~3″) | 11 cm (~4″) |
| Strap Type | Leather | Padded canvas |
| Weight (approx.) | ~700g | ~1,000g |
| Laptop Fit | No | 13″ laptop |
PM: The Compact Essential
PM Fits Comfortably
- • Smartphone (any size)
- • Compact wallet or cardholder
- • Keys and AirPods
- • Sunglasses in slim case
- • Small cosmetics pouch
- • Slim notebook (A6 or smaller)
- • Light scarf
PM Won't Fit
- • Laptop or tablet
- • Water bottle
- • Full-size wallet
- • A5 or larger notebooks
- • Bulky headphones
- • Change of clothes
GM: The Everyday Workhorse
GM Fits Comfortably
- • 13″ laptop
- • iPad Pro 12.9″
- • Full-size wallet
- • Water bottle (500ml)
- • A4 notebook
- • Phone, keys, sunglasses
- • Cosmetics pouch
- • Light sweater or jacket
GM: Tight or Won't Fit
- • 15″+ laptop (won't fit)
- • Large water bottles (tight)
- • Multiple days of clothes
- • Heavy textbooks (bag sags)
- • DSLR camera (may fit, snug)
Tip: The GM's padded canvas strap makes it significantly more comfortable for heavier loads. If you plan to carry a laptop regularly, the GM is the better choice — both for capacity and comfort.
Materials
The Hac a Dos comes in several Hermès leathers. Each looks and feels different, and the leather you pick also changes the price.
| Leather | Characteristics | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Togo | Fine-grained, scratch-resistant, soft | Everyday use, low maintenance |
| Clemence | Larger grain, softer, slouches more | Relaxed aesthetic, comfort |
| Epsom | Textured, rigid, holds shape | Structured look, formal settings |
| Barenia Faubourg | Smooth, buttery, develops patina | Collectors, patina enthusiasts |
Leather Recommendations
- For daily use: Togo is the most practical choice — scratch-resistant and forgiving of everyday handling. It's also the most commonly available.
- For a softer look: Clemence offers a more relaxed appearance that softens the HAC's angular lines. Expect a bit more slouch over time.
- For structure: Epsom maintains the trapezoidal silhouette best, though its texture is more casual than classic.
- For patina lovers: Barenia Faubourg is buttery-smooth and develops a beautiful aged character over time. It's also the most premium option price-wise.
Pricing Guide
Retail Prices (Boutique)
Hermès doesn't publish prices online. Based on boutique reports as of December 2025, here's what to expect:
| Size / Material | USD (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| PM Togo | $10,400 | Most common configuration |
| PM Barenia Faubourg | $11,600 | Premium leather option |
| GM Togo | $11,000 | Larger size, padded strap |
| GM Barenia Faubourg | $13,600 | Highest price point |
Price factors: Material is the primary price driver — Barenia Faubourg commands a ~$500–$1,000 premium over Togo (historically around €450). European prices may offer better value (plus VAT refund for tourists). Special colors or limited editions may price higher.
Resale Market Prices
The Hac a Dos maintains solid resale value, typically selling at or slightly above retail for excellent condition examples:
| Size / Material | Excellent Condition | Good Condition |
|---|---|---|
| PM Togo | $10,000–$14,000 | $8,000–$10,000 |
| PM Barenia | $11,000–$13,000 | $9,000–$11,000 |
| GM Togo | $12,000–$13,000 | $9,500–$12,000 |
| GM Barenia | $13,000+ | $11,000–$13,000 |
How the Hac a Dos Compares
Hac a Dos vs Bolide à Dos
Both are Hermès backpacks, but they come from different design lineages and offer distinct aesthetics:
| Feature | Hac a Dos | Bolide à Dos |
|---|---|---|
| Heritage | From HAC (1890s) | From Bolide (1923) |
| Shape | Angular, trapezoidal | Curved, domed |
| Closure | Flap + crossed straps | Zip top |
| Look | Angular, flat panels | Rounded, dome-shaped |
| Price Range | $10,400–$13,600 | $8,000–$11,000 |
| Availability | Moderate | More common |
| Best For | HAC collectors, minimalists | Everyday versatility |
The verdict: Choose the Hac a Dos if you like the angular shape and crossed-strap closure. Choose the Bolide à Dos if you want a zip top, rounder lines, and a lower price.
Hac a Dos vs Chanel 25 Backpack
For those considering luxury backpack alternatives:
| Feature | Hac a Dos GM | Chanel 25 Backpack |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 26×36×11 cm | 22×27×15 cm |
| Capacity | 13″ laptop fits | Smaller, essentials only |
| Closure | Flap + turn-lock | Flap + CC clasp |
| Straps | Single shoulder | Dual adjustable |
| Branding | No visible logos | CC logo on clasp |
| Price (2025) | ~$11,000–$13,600 | ~$5,000–$7,000 |
| Best For | No-logo look, more capacity | Recognizable brand, dual straps |
The verdict: Choose the Hac a Dos if you want more room and no visible logos. Choose the Chanel if you want the CC on display, two shoulder straps, and a lower price.
Hac a Dos PM vs GM
| Factor | PM | GM |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Light daily essentials | Work, travel, laptops |
| Strap Comfort | Good (leather) | Better (padded canvas) |
| Laptop Fit | No | Yes (13″) |
| Visual Impact | Compact, subtle | Substantial, noticeable |
| Price | ~$10,400–$11,600 | ~$11,000–$13,600 |
Alternatives & Lookalikes
No brand makes a true "Hac a Dos dupe" — the trapezoidal HAC silhouette with crossed straps is unique to Hermès. However, if you're exploring quality leather backpacks at various price points:
- Hermès Bolide à Dos ($8,000–$11,000) — Same house, softer curved silhouette with zip-top access.
- Bottega Veneta Intrecciato ($3,000–$5,000) — Signature woven leather, flap backpacks available.
- Loewe Backpacks ($2,000–$4,000) — Clean lines, Anagram hardware, handcrafted in Spain.
- Mansur Gavriel ($600–$1,200) — Bucket-style flap backpacks, Italian vegetable-tanned leather.
- Lotuff Leather ($800–$1,200) — American-made, full-grain leather, brass buckles, lifetime guarantee.
Our take: These are all quality bags, but none capture the specific HAC aesthetic. If you love the crossed-strap, trapezoidal look, a pre-owned Hac a Dos at $8,000–$10,000 is often better value than settling for a different style at $3,000–$5,000.
Two other Hermès bags worth considering if you are comparing practical carry options: the Toolbox is a structured top-handle with a boxy silhouette that appeals to buyers who want the non-logo Hermès look without a strap; and the discontinued Cabag is a canvas-and-leather open tote that trades the Hac a Dos backpack carry for a dual-handle shoulder-or-hand format at a lower resale entry point.
Where to Buy
Retail (New)
Hermès doesn't sell bags online — the Hac a Dos must be purchased through an Hermès boutique. Unlike the Birkin and Kelly, the Hac a Dos is generally not a quota bag, meaning it's typically available upon request.
- Availability: Most boutiques can order a Hac a Dos if not in stock. Specific colors or leathers may require waiting. Building a relationship with a sales associate helps access desired configurations.
- No Waitlist (Usually): Unlike Birkins and Kellys, the Hac a Dos generally doesn't require extensive purchase history or waitlisting. Walk-in purchases are possible.
- European Pricing: Paris boutiques may offer better value than US retail, plus VAT refund for non-EU residents.
Resale (Pre-Owned)
If you want immediate availability or a specific configuration:
- Luxury Resellers: Fashionphile, The RealReal, Rebag, and Vestiaire Collective list Hac a Dos models regularly.
- Auction Houses: Christie's, Sotheby's, and Bonhams occasionally feature Hac a Dos bags in their handbag auctions, sometimes with rare colors or materials.
Care & Maintenance
Hermès leather holds up to daily use, but each type needs slightly different care.
Care Tips by Leather Type
- Togo/Clemence Wipe with a soft, dry cloth. These grained leathers are naturally scratch-resistant. Avoid water exposure. Condition sparingly (1–2× per year) if leather feels dry.
- Epsom Rigid and resistant to scratches. Wipe clean with dry cloth. Holds shape well but avoid crushing. Rarely needs conditioning.
- Barenia Will naturally develop patina — this is desirable. Avoid water spots (they're permanent). Embrace the aging process; it adds character. Condition only if very dry.
- Storage Store in dust bag, straps laid flat (not buckled to avoid creasing). Stuff with acid-free tissue to maintain shape. Keep in cool, dry location away from sunlight.
- Straps Avoid overloading which stresses strap attachments. The GM's canvas strap is more durable under heavy loads than the PM's leather strap.
- Hermès Spa Hermès offers spa services for cleaning, conditioning, and repairs. Book through your boutique. Service takes several weeks but restores bags beautifully.
Is the Hac a Dos Right for You?
The Hac a Dos is ideal if you...
- • Want Hermès leather and construction in a backpack
- • Need a hands-free bag for commuting or travel
- • Prefer no visible logos or branding
- • Like angular, flat-paneled shapes
- • Want a bag that works across men's and women's wardrobes
- • Don't want people recognizing your bag from across the room
- • Already own a Birkin or Kelly and want something practical
The Hac a Dos might frustrate you if...
- • You need two shoulder straps for weight distribution
- • You want a zip top you can open and close quickly
- • You carry heavy loads daily
- • You need multiple pockets and compartments
- • You prefer rounded, soft shapes
- • You want people to know the brand at a glance
- • You need to fit a 15″+ laptop
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Hermès Guides
Looking for other Hermès bags? Explore our guides to the Hermès Bolide, the Hermès Evelyne, or the Hermès Lindy for more hands-free Hermès options.
Key Takeaways
- Based on the HAC: Same shape as Hermès' oldest bag, the Haut à Courroies (1890s), worn as a backpack.
- Two sizes: PM (compact, ~$10,400) and GM (fits 13″ laptop, ~$11,000+).
- Key materials: Togo (practical), Clemence (soft), Epsom (structured), Barenia (luxury patina).
- Not a quota bag: Generally available at boutiques without extensive purchase history.
- Strong resale: Holds value at or near retail; rare colors may command premiums.
- New for 2025: Multipockets variant adds front pockets for better organization.