Hermès HAC vs. Birkin: The Travel Bag That Inspired an Icon
When it comes to Hermès, few silhouettes are as legendary as the Birkin. But before the Birkin was born in 1984, there was the Haut à Courroies (HAC) — the tall, structured travel bag designed in the late 1800s. Today, both the HAC and Birkin remain symbols of Hermès craftsmanship, but they serve different purposes and appeal to different collectors. At Privé Porter, we help clients understand the nuances between the two so they can invest in the Hermès that fits their lifestyle — or add both to their collection.
Origins: The HAC Came First
-
The HAC (Haut à Courroies) was introduced around 1892 as Hermès’ original bag design, intended to carry saddles and riding gear.
-
Its name literally means “High Belts,” referring to its taller, narrower proportions and long straps.
-
Nearly a century later, the Birkin was created after Jean-Louis Dumas met Jane Birkin on a flight — a more compact, modern handbag inspired by the HAC’s design DNA.
Key Differences Between the HAC and Birkin
| Feature | HAC (Haut à Courroies) | Birkin |
|---|---|---|
| Proportions | Taller and narrower; structured silhouette | Shorter and wider; more casual proportions |
| Handles | Shorter handles, designed to be carried by hand | Longer handles; fits more comfortably in the crook of the arm |
| Sizes | Common in larger formats (40, 50, 55 cm) for travel, though 32 and 36 cm exist | Popular in 25, 30, 35, 40 cm — designed for everyday use |
| Weight | Heavier, especially in full leather exotics | Lighter relative to HAC; considered more versatile |
| Function | Originally for travel and equestrian gear | Designed as a modern handbag |
| Collectibility | Rare, especially in toile or exotic versions | The global symbol of luxury, highest overall demand |
HAC Today: Collector’s Treasure
While the HAC was once practical luggage, today it’s a collector’s item. Large HACs (40 cm and up) are prized as statement pieces and travel bags, while smaller HAC 32 or 36 cm sizes are increasingly popular as alternatives to the Birkin.
Special HAC editions — such as Cargo HACs in toile canvas or exotic HACs in crocodile — have surged in demand because Hermès produces so few of them compared to the Birkin.
Why Collectors Still Choose the Birkin
The Birkin remains the most requested Hermès bag worldwide. Its proportions, range of sizes, and color options make it wearable for everyday use. While the HAC appeals to seasoned collectors who want something rare, the Birkin continues to dominate resale value and mainstream recognition.
Investment Value: HAC vs. Birkin
-
Birkin: Consistently the strongest performer on the secondary market. Mini Birkins (20/25 cm) and exotic Birkins command auction-level pricing.
-
HAC: Because of its rarity, it often appeals to serious Hermès collectors rather than casual buyers. Exotic HACs, HACs in toile, and limited editions (like the Cargo HAC) perform exceptionally well in resale, but overall market demand is more niche than the Birkin.
Final Word
The HAC and Birkin share DNA, but each has its place in Hermès history. The HAC is the original, tall travel bag — structured, rare, and beloved by insiders. The Birkin is its modern evolution — versatile, coveted, and the most recognizable bag in the world. For collectors, owning both is the ultimate way to honor Hermès’ past and present.
Contact Privé Porter
Looking for a Hermès HAC or Birkin? At Privé Porter, we specialize in sourcing the rarest Hermès bags in the world, from vintage HACs to the newest Birkin 25s. Contact us today to add one of these icons to your collection.
📞 Call/Text: +1 (305) 432-1285
📧 Email: sales@priveporter.com
📸 Instagram: @priveporter
🌐 Website: priveporter.com