One of the better things about modern communication is the ability to meet and talk to people from nearly all parts of the globe. I have been in communication with Jacob from Botswana for years now and he has shared some photos of the beautiful backpack he made based on my earlier design. That one now resides in Montana and I hope serves some function for its owner. My personal pack has since been replaced by this one and is my new favorite piece of gear. But enough about me.
Right now, according to Google Maps, I am about 13,670 km from central Botswana and am unlikely to ever make it there, though not for lack of wanting to. However, the internet allowed us to connect across a vast distance in space and share ideas with strangers who have common interests.
Anyway, here is Jacob’s very own leather rucksack and the two portmanteaus inspired by this post to carry his gear into the bush of southern Africa. I suspect a backpack like this will outlive us all and become a fine heirloom to pass on to the next generation. 
Thank you so much for sharing these Jacob. I hope it serves you well for many years.
Preindustrial Craftsmanship 
Nice Job Jacob! As another leatherworker, I love seeing the stuff being used!
Thank you so much daryk, it is being used for camping in the Bush.
Wow! Stunning leather craftsmanship. Would like to see the gear as it ages. We’re Jacob’s shoes handmade?
Hello, they are handmdae too.
Stunning leather craftsmanship! Would be interested to see how it looks as it ages. Wondering if Jacob’s sandals were handmade?
Thank you ccvoight, yes the sandals are handmade
How stinking cool is this??!! I bought a leather Portmanteau at a Flea Market in Paris. It had been used by a workman to carry tools and repair supplies. It now resides on the back of my old Fur Trade Saddle.
Very cool Bill. I’d love to see it sometime. I put a leather handle on the top of mine and a shoulder strap so I can use it as an overnight bag.
Good craftmanship and it’s amazing how we’ve become global citizens through the internet.
Thank you George for showcasing Jacob’s leather gear. He shared your post me. I am particularlyinterestedin In from development perspective. Botswanateams with livestockas well as wildlife. One would expect leather industry to be second to diamonds, but that is not the case. So I hope you make it to Botswana one day and help tap us from abundant leather Resources here!
I certainly wish I could. It is far and difficult from here but seems to be an amazing place.
I managed to go there twice for work years ago a love The country and the people (and some mighty fine steaks as well). The Okavango is a magical place.