Gundam’s Classic Mobile Suit Backpack Collection Officially Returns for New Re-Release
Image by Charlotte DavisBandai has officially announced the return of its unique Gundam backpack collection, allowing fans to carry bags inspired by the equipment mounted on the backs of the anime’s iconic Mobile Suits.
The “Mobile Suit Gundam Backpack Motif 2-Way Tote Bag” collection brings back three designs inspired by the RX-78-2 Gundam, Zaku, and Gouf, alongside a brand-new miniature version of the original Gundam model.
First broadcast in 1979, Mobile Suit Gundam introduced the conflict between the Earth Federation and the Principality of Zeon, following young pilot Amuro Ray as he fights against the Zeon military using the powerful RX-78-2 Gundam.
The original anime also introduced the mass-produced Zaku and the more advanced Gouf, two of Zeon’s best-known Mobile Suits that have become enduring symbols of the franchise.
Bandai first released its Gundam-inspired backpack collection in January 2023, transforming the rear-mounted mechanical equipment of these machines into functional bags that could be worn or carried.
Gundam has since inspired several other official bag collections, including STRICT-G’s embroidered tote bags featuring classic Mobile Suits and a recent collaboration with Japanese bag manufacturer master-piece based on Char Aznable’s military academy uniform from Mobile Suit Gundam THE ORIGIN.
For this latest release, Bandai has retained the original collection’s 2-way design, allowing each bag to be carried by its handles as a conventional tote or worn over both shoulders like a backpack.
The exterior designs recreate the shapes, colors, and mechanical details of each Mobile Suit’s rear equipment, with printed thrusters and armour panels that give the wearer the appearance of carrying an actual Gundam backpack.
The three returning full-size bags measure approximately 45 cm tall and 33 cm wide, with the new miniature Gundam version offering a smaller alternative suitable for younger fans.
Let’s take a look at the full four-item collection!
- “Mobile Suit Gundam Backpack Motif 2-Way Tote Bag (Gundam Model)” – ¥5,940 (approximately $38 / £28)
Inspired by the RX-78-2 Gundam’s distinctive backpack unit, this design features a predominantly blue exterior with red, yellow, and white accents, alongside mechanical details recreating the machine’s rear thrusters.
- “Mobile Suit Gundam Backpack Motif 2-Way Tote Bag (Zaku Model)” – ¥5,940 (approximately $38 / £28)
A military-green version based on the backpack equipment fitted to Zeon’s Zaku Mobile Suits, with contrasting green panels recreating the unit’s mechanical structure.
- “Mobile Suit Gundam Backpack Motif 2-Way Tote Bag (Gouf Model)” – ¥5,940 (approximately $38 / £28)
The third returning design takes inspiration from the Gouf, featuring its signature blue color scheme and details based on the rear equipment of the powerful Zeon Mobile Suit.
- “Mobile Suit Gundam Backpack Motif 2-Way Tote Bag (Gundam Model Mini Version)” – ¥4,400 (approximately $28 / £21)
A new smaller version of the RX-78-2 Gundam bag, retaining the original blue, red, yellow, and white design in a more compact format intended for younger fans.
Pre-orders for all four designs are now open through Premium Bandai Japan’s BANCOLLE! merchandise store, with orders scheduled to close on November 1 at 11 PM JST unless the available quantities sell out earlier.
All four bags are scheduled to begin shipping in December 2026, with no official US release through Premium Bandai US currently announced.
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