Larp belt pouches and bags
- Available
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Delivery time: 2 - 3 working days* (US - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
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Delivery time: 2 - 3 working days* (US - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
-
Delivery time: 2 - 3 working days* (US - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
-
Delivery time: 2 - 3 working days* (US - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
-
Delivery time: 2 - 3 working days* (US - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
-
Delivery time: 2 - 3 working days* (US - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
-
Delivery time: 2 - 3 working days* (US - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
-
Delivery time: 2 - 3 working days* (US - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
-
Delivery time: 2 - 3 working days* (US - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
-
Delivery time: 2 - 3 working days* (US - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
-
Delivery time: 2 - 3 working days* (US - int. shipments may differ)
Belt pouches and bags are just as much a part of LARP as costumes and weapons — they are not mere accessories, but functional equipment that also helps to define the character. Whether it’s a simple leather pouch on a belt, a historically inspired kidney bag or a richly studded Viking borsa: the range extends from affordable entry-level models to intricately crafted pieces based on archaeological models.
What types of bags are there and what are they suitable for?
The world of LARP bags is more diverse than it appears at first glance. The most important difference lies in how they are attached: belt bags have fixed belt loops and sit securely on the belt, whilst belt pouches are often attached to the belt with a cord or strap and move more freely. Waist bags fit ergonomically around the hips and offer a little more storage space for props, dice or a well-hidden mobile phone. Shoulder bags and pilgrim’s bags hang over the shoulder on a long cord or strap and are suitable for characters who are often on the move — merchants, pilgrims, healers or travellers.
In everyday LARP life, the bags hold practically everything the character carries: in-game currency and real coins, keys, dice for rule decisions, first-aid supplies for healer characters, handwritten messages or small props. The material determines not only the look, but also the durability and maintenance requirements: smooth cowhide leather is durable and retains its shape well, suede and split leather are lighter and more affordable, nubuck impresses with its velvety surface, and fabric pouches made of linen or cotton are a lighter alternative for warmer events.
Well-equipped for your next event
A LARP bag only comes into its own when paired with the right medieval or Viking belt. For an early medieval setting, a simple tubular belt or strap is recommended, whilst wider, metal-studded belts look more authentic for Viking characters. Those wishing to further accessorise their belt will find suitable additions in the form of belt holders for drinking horns, daggers and axes. The outfit is rounded off with matching LARP clothing and LARP shoes. Our own brand, Vehi Mercatus, complements the leather range with pouches made from pure natural fibres such as cotton and linen — deliberately free from synthetics and manufactured to our own specifications.
Materials and workmanship: What’s behind the price?
| Material | Suitability | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Cowhide leather (3 mm) | Historical | Dimensionally stable, robust, durable — classic for belt bags |
| Nubuck | Historical | Velvety surface, supple, more sensitive when wet |
| Suede / Split leather | LARP | Lighter, cheaper, less dimensionally stable |
| Linen / Cotton | LARP | Fabric bag, lightweight, washable, suitable for warmer events |
| Brass fittings | Historical | Decorative rivets, lily motifs, toggle fasteners — historically documented |
| Press studs / wooden fastenings | LARP | Practical for frequent opening, robust in field use |
The thickness of the leather has a noticeable effect on dimensional stability and durability: a belt pouch made from 3 mm cowhide retains its shape even after years of intensive use at markets and events. Thinner split leather variants are pleasantly light, but less resistant to mechanical stress. The braided edge, as found on several models in the range, is not just a visual detail — it reinforces the edges and extends the bag’s lifespan.
Which model suits your budget?
Simple leather pouches with drawstrings, a wide range of colours, ideal for a first outfit and for children. Textile pouches such as the Ehwaz pouch made from natural fibres also fall into this category — lightweight, easy to care for and available in many colours.
Cowhide leather belt pouches with fastenings and buckles: the High Medieval Runneburg belt pouch in a D-shape, simple kidney pouches made from nubuck, or late Medieval variants without decorative fittings. Solid workmanship, good value for money for regular use.
Richly-embellished Viking belt pouches based on grave finds from Birka or Rösta, Tarsoly based on Hungarian grave finds, elaborate kidney pouches with brass-coloured lily fittings. The price correlates directly with leather quality, the complexity of the fittings and historical accuracy.
An overview of bag styles: from Viking to fantasy
Early Middle Ages
Tarsoly and Birka bags with metal fittings, based on grave finds from Hungary and Scandinavia. Elaborate decorative fittings in brass or bronze, flat design, characteristic of Viking and equestrian peoples’ settings.
High Middle Ages
D-shaped belt pouches and simple cowhide leather designs such as the Runneburg — functional, minimal ornamentation, ideal for knight, merchant and squire characters. Many of these models are also suitable as all-rounders for beginners.
Late Middle Ages
Kidney pouches with decorative brass fittings, lily motifs, black nubuck. Historically datable to 1400–1500, also suitable for townspeople and bourgeois characters. Richly embellished variants for sophisticated attire.
Fantasy & LARP
Greater freedom of design in terms of colour, decoration and motifs: animal and vine motifs, unusual colour schemes, elven pouches or witch’s bags for fantasy characters. Also cross-period models for beginners without a fixed setting.
Care and durability: How to make your bag last
Leather is a natural material that rewards regular care. After use in the rain at markets and events, the bag should first be left to dry slowly at room temperature — never on a radiator or in the sun, as this will make the leather brittle. It is then advisable to work in leather grease or leather balm, which keeps the fibres supple and protects against further damage. You can find leather dye and leather grease for regular care directly in the shop.
Nubuck leather behaves differently to smooth cowhide: oil or grease products darken the velvety surface significantly and permanently alter the texture. There are special care products for nubuck that preserve the fibre structure. Check fastenings and metal fittings for corrosion after prolonged outdoor use and rub them dry if necessary. If you follow these simple care steps, you’ll enjoy a good leather bag for many years to come.
Authentic vs. LARP-suitable: what is the difference?
- Based on archaeological finds and museum pieces (Birka, Tarsoly, Rösta)
- Documented materials: vegetable-tanned leather, brass fittings
- No modern fastenings — toggle hooks, strap loops, wooden fastenings
- Measures for suitability for stage combat not a priority
- Higher price due to intricate metalwork and choice of materials
- Robust for everyday use, optimised for frequent opening and closing
- Press studs or snap fasteners for quick access
- Slightly more flexibility regarding colour and design — fantasy motifs possible
- Lighter materials for all-day wear at events
- More affordable entry-level models for newcomers and children’s LARP
Many models in the range work for both purposes: a simple cowhide leather belt pouch with a toggle fastening looks just as authentic at a re-enactment market as it does in a LARP adventure. If you’re unsure which model suits your planned setting, the product descriptions include references to historical models and areas of use. For specific settings such as Viking bags, medieval belt pouches or Germanic bags, there are dedicated categories with perfectly suited models.
With over 200 models ranging from simple drawstring pouches to richly studded Viking bags, you’ll find the right gear here for every character and every budget — browse through the range and kit yourself out for your next LARP event or visit to a medieval market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Simple leather drawstring pouches in the €10–20 price range are ideal for beginners. They are easy to carry, suit many different characters and require no special care. Textile pouches made of cotton or linen are another affordable option, particularly for children’s LARP or warm summer markets.
A belt pouch has fixed belt loops on the back, allowing it to sit securely and immovably on the belt. A belt bag is usually attached to the belt with a cord or a leather strap and offers slightly more freedom of movement. Waist bags are cut wider and fit ergonomically around the hips — they offer the most storage space of the three types.
After use in the rain, the bag should be left to dry slowly at room temperature — never on a radiator or in direct sunlight. Then work in some leather grease or leather balm to keep the leather supple. For nubuck leather, do not use standard oils, as these will permanently alter the velvety surface. Special nubuck care products preserve the texture.
The Birka bag and the Rösta bag are based on archaeological grave finds from Sweden. The Tarsoly bag is based on a Hungarian grave find and is typical of early medieval horsemen. These models use vegetable-tanned leather and metal fittings based on historical designs, which also makes them of interest to re-enactment groups.
Yes, most historically inspired belt bags work perfectly well for LARP use. Models with toggle hooks or wooden fastenings are slightly less suitable for everyday use than versions with press studs, but offer a more authentic appearance. For intensive field use, we recommend versions made from 3 mm cowhide leather, as these are more dimensionally stable and durable.