Roman bags
- Available
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Delivery time: 1 - 2 working days* (DE - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
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Delivery time: 1 - 2 working days* (DE - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
-
Delivery time: 1 - 2 working days* (DE - int. shipments may differ)
Pera, Loculus & Co.: Roman bags for re-enactment and LARP
Roman bags – namely Pera, Loculus and leather pouches modelled on ancient designs – are part of the basic kit for any Roman re-enactor and are also an essential part of LARP costumes set in ancient times. Here you’ll find a concise overview of the historical background, the main types of bags and what to look out for when buying.
Pera, Loculus & Co.: The types of bags in ancient Rome
Pera
The Pera was the typical everyday travel bag in Roman times. It was carried by merchants, travellers and pilgrims and was usually made of soft leather or fabric. The Pera hung from a shoulder strap and offered enough space for provisions, tools or personal belongings.
Loculus
The loculus was the rectangular luggage bag of Roman legionaries. Made from heavy, reinforced cowhide leather, it was carried on a walking stick (furca) or a shoulder strap. Depictions on Trajan’s Column show it as an integral part of every legionary’s equipment.
Pouch
Smaller leather or cloth pouches were used to store coins, dice or small items on the belt. They were common in both military and civilian contexts and are today the most accessible introductory accessory for any Roman costume.
Historical background: How did Roman legionaries carry their equipment?
On the march, Roman legionaries carried their personal belongings on the so-called marching staff – the furca – a forked wooden pole that was slung over the shoulder. The loculus hung from the end of this furca, often together with a water container and other small items of equipment. Alternatively, the loculus was also carried directly as a shoulder bag.
The Column of Trajan in Rome is the most important visual source for these depictions: the reliefs show legionaries in marching gear in detail, and the loculus is clearly recognisable. The Wikipedia entry on the loculus also refers to this rectangular leather bag, fitted with reinforcing straps, as a historically attested military bag.
The civilian pera, on the other hand, was more flexible in shape and material and is mentioned in written sources ranging from Virgil to Apuleius. This distinction is important for Roman costumes in re-enactment: those portraying a legionary should use the loculus; those playing a merchant, traveller or civilian should choose the pera or a simple belt pouch.
A comparison of materials: leather, wool and linen
| Material | Suitability | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Cowhide (heavy) | Historically authentic | Loculus, Pera, sturdy belt pouches |
| Cowhide (lighter) | Historical | Small leather pouches, coin pouches on a belt |
| Wool | Suitable for LARP | Juna pouches, civilian garments, soft shoulder bags |
| Linen | Suitable for LARP | Smaller inner pouches, lightweight everyday bags |
Cowhide is the most historically accurate material for loculus and pera – it is robust, easy to maintain and develops a characteristic patina over time. Wool, as used in the Juna bag by Burgschneider, was also common in everyday civilian life in antiquity and is particularly well-suited to simpler garments and LARP settings. Linen is found primarily in smaller bags. Natural fibres and leather are always the historically accurate choice – synthetic materials should be avoided for authentic portrayals.
Which bag goes with which Roman outfit?
A large leather pouch (e.g. Ø 30 cm, dark brown) is the ideal starter item for your first Roman outfit. It holds coins, dice and small items and fits any Roman belt. Simple, affordable and historically plausible for civilians and basic reenactments.
The Juna wool pouch from Burgschneider or the ‘Odo’ cowhide leather pouch are suitable for market visits and living history events. They look good, are hard-wearing and go well with Roman shoes and tunics as well as other ancient outfits. The braided-seam bags in brown or black (from approx. €35) take things a step further in terms of detail.
The full-size Pera made from heavy cowhide leather (e.g. by Pera Peris or Battle Merchant) is aimed at re-enactors who value historical accuracy. Heavy leather, authentic dimensions and solid workmanship – this bag complements a full legionary outfit, complete with Roman swords and ancient armour.
For a complete outfit, it’s worth taking a look at the related categories: Roman clothing, Roman shoes and Roman belts make a sensible addition to any Roman bag.
Care and durability: How to keep leather looking good for a long time
Cowhide leather bags and pouches should be treated regularly with a good leather grease or leather care product – this keeps the leather supple, protects against cracks and significantly extends its lifespan. Care is particularly recommended after exposure to rain or strong sunlight.
Wool pouches such as those in the Juna series should be stored in a dry place and not wrung out if they get damp – dabbing them dry and leaving them to air-dry is the better method. Bags with braided seams should not be overfilled, as the seams may give way if subjected to constant strain.
You’ll also find suitable care products – from leather dye and leather grease to care oils – in the shop. Regular care doesn’t take much effort, but it clearly pays off with high-quality leather items.
Authentic vs. LARP-compatible: what are the differences?
- Historically documented measurements and cuts (Trajan’s Column, sources)
- Heavy cowhide leather, hand-sewn or with historical stitching
- Higher price, longer lifespan with proper care
- Suitable for living history, museum events and high-quality reenactment
- Examples: Pera by Pera Peris, Loculus by Battle Merchant
- Robust for everyday use, not primarily designed for historical accuracy
- Also available in wool or lighter leather
- More versatile – for the Middle Ages, Antiquity, Fantasy
- More affordable entry-level price, available quickly
- Examples: Juna wool pouch (Burgschneider), ‘Odo’ leather pouch
Both options have their merits – the intended use is the deciding factor. Anyone performing at a living history event with a specialist audience should pay attention to historical accuracy. For LARP events or visits to medieval markets, the more affordable, robust options are perfectly adequate.
Whether you’re looking for a simple leather pouch for your first visit to the market or a historically accurate Pera for your re-enactment outfit – in this category you’ll find the right Roman bag for your needs. Do also take a look at the other sections of the Roman Shop to complete your outfit with matching belts, shoes and clothing.
Frequently asked questions
The Pera is a civilian shoulder bag made of leather or fabric, used by travellers and traders in ancient Rome. The Loculus, on the other hand, was the rectangular military bag of Roman legionaries – made from heavy cowhide leather and fitted with reinforcing straps. For a legionary, the Loculus is the historically accurate choice; for civilian reenactments, opt for the Pera or a simple belt pouch.
For a first purchase, we recommend a simple large leather pouch (from approx. €12) or the Juna wool pouch by Burgschneider (from approx. €19). Both options are affordable, versatile and go well with a wide range of Roman costumes. Those with a larger budget who value historical accuracy should opt for a full-length Pera made from heavy cowhide leather.
Historically accurate bags and pouches were made from cowhide, but also from wool or linen. For an authentic replica of the loculus or the pera, heavy cowhide is the best choice. Wool pouches are also historically plausible for civilian re-enactments and well-suited to LARP settings. Synthetic materials should be avoided for re-enactments.
Cowhide bags should be treated regularly with leather grease or a leather care product, especially after contact with moisture or strong sunlight. This keeps the leather supple and prevents cracks. Bags with braided seams should not be overfilled to prevent the seams from tearing. Suitable care products are available in the shop.
Yes, most bags and pouches in our range are well suited for both re-enactment and LARP. Wool pouches such as the Juna series or lighter leather pouches are particularly versatile and also suit fantasy or other ancient settings. Those who can do without historical accuracy at LARP events have a wider choice and can find suitable options starting from just €12.