UTC x Packolab: From Kyiv to the Carry Community
The Story Behind the UTC x Packolab Collaboration
What began as a conversation across time zones has now become a full-circle moment.
The first UTC x Packolab Limited Edition pieces are already on its way — moving from a workshop in Kyiv to the hands of the local carry community who showed up in force from day one.
This collaboration was never just about releasing a limited edition. It was built through months of calls, design discussions, refinements, and mutual respect between Hans Fernandez of Urban Traveller & Co. and Borys of Packolab.
From reviewing silhouettes over video calls to finalizing materials, every step required coordination across very different realities.
And yet, it worked.
Why Packolab Is Considered a Grail Brand
For Hans, Packolab has long held a special place within the carry world.
“Packolab has always been one of those grail brands for me. To work directly with Borys and bring this to our community wasn’t just exciting, it felt like a rare opportunity. Seeing the reaction at UTX, and now watching these pieces ship out, makes it even more meaningful.”
Packolab releases are typically extremely limited and often require customers to enter raffles for a chance to purchase. Through UTC, the collaboration made it possible for the local community to access these pieces directly — no raffle, just decisiveness.
When the collection was revealed at UTX, the response was immediate. Conversations grew louder. Materials were inspected closely. Questions were detailed and deliberate. It was the kind of reception that only happens when a community understands the craft in front of them.
Crafting in Kyiv Under Uncertain Conditions
Packolab operates out of Kyiv, Ukraine, designing and producing in circumstances that remain unpredictable. Infrastructure disruptions and daily uncertainties are realities the team continues to navigate.
For Borys and his team, seeing their work travel across borders carries a different weight.
“Creating these pieces in Kyiv and seeing them appreciated halfway across the world is something we don’t take for granted. The response from the UTC community has been incredibly motivating for our team.
Collaborating with Hans and the UTC team has been a meaningful experience for our team in Kyiv. Despite the challenges we face, it’s encouraging to see our work resonate so strongly with the local community. We’re grateful for the trust and support.”
That appreciation flows both ways.
From UTX Reveal to Shipping Day
Now that pre-orders are about to be shipped, the journey feels complete. Or maybe, it’s also just beginning.
From Kyiv workshops to Manila streets, this collaboration carries more than gear. It carries trust between teams. It carries resilience. And it carries the energy of a local community that showed up loudly and proudly when it mattered.
A few remaining pieces will be made available online and select UTC stores beginning March 2.
When you see one in the wild, you’ll know the story behind it.
And if you’re one of the owners, we’d love to see where it goes next. Tag @urbantravellerco and use #UTCxPackolab so we can continue the story together.