This Is Ground, purveyor of obsessively-researched leather goods, updated its already-spectacular leather backpack. The Venture 2 backpack is made of the same Italian vegetable tanned leather as the previous edition, but its shoulder straps have been widened for comfort, and the top carry strap has been moved down for a more refined look. The bag also boasts the same cadre of pockets and compartments for a laptop, tablet, stylus or Apple Pencil, eyewear, camera gear, toiletries and more, but now offers customized packing cubes tailored for a variety of professions, hobbies and packing needs (like separating dirty and clean laundry).

The majority of updates in the Venture 2 are found in its handy, TSA-approved tech “tray,” a front zip pocket that keeps your phone, cash, pen, passport and other small items in one easy-to-access place. It features a hidden pocket (whereabouts revealed to you at purchase) and the option to purchase a Tile tracker for that pocket. Also new to the Venture 2 is the ability to customize the tech tray with a variety of leather inserts made by the brand.

Pricing for the Venture 2 is admittedly steep for a backpack; purchasing one will run you from $825 for the slim edition to $925 for the regular size (or $925-$1,025 in Particle Grey). But the Venture isn’t just a backpack; it’s a system, from the bag itself to the customized add-ons and inserts that make it great. As a system, the Venture 2 is enough to replace your briefcase, commuter bag, weekender and travel backpack, while looking good doing it. Plus, while supplies last, This Is Ground is also throwing in a custom insert, Master & Dynamic ME05 Earphones, a Drip Kit Box of 10 single-cup to-go coffee, Ursa Major Essential 5-Pack Face Wipes and Ursa Major Mint & Eucalyptus Deodorant.

If you like This Is Ground but aren’t in the market for a grail backpack, check out some of their other items used by our team: Cord Tacos ($16) and the Bandito Lifestyle Roll ($75).

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