Timbuk2 Commute Messenger Bag

This is my first foray into the world of Timbuk2, and I have to say that I am impressed. Yeah, its just a bag, but many of us use bags like these everyday. Having one that is convenient, comfortable, durable, and professional is very important. I am happy to say this bag not only fits all these criteria, but excels in each.The nylon is extremely tough. I haven't been dragging mine across gravel, but I think that you probably could without doing much damage. It has a nice texture that repels water well. I find I don't have to worry about where I set my bag down because I know the nylon is tough and weatherproof enough to withstand anything I encounter in the course of the day.The bag is very roomy. I have the medium size, and it is large enough to fit a 15" laptop, an ipad, a couple of large textbooks, a few other miscellaneous items (blood pressure cuff, etc.) and many small odds and ends. If you have a very large 15" laptop with an extended battery that pokes up, it may not fit in the dedicated laptop section and will have to be placed in the main compartment. I haven't seen other sizes, but I would think the medium would be sufficient for most people. It fits comfortably across my shoulder (I am a thin, 6 ft male) and doesn't feel too big across my body.It has a couple of small zipper pocket, including the napoleon pocket which can be accessed under the flap without undoing the buckle. I like how one of the small zipper pockets has the red timbuk2 key ribbon, so keys can be used and stored without un-clipping them from the bag (for doors, not cars of course). This is great for me, as I have a tendency to misplace my keys.The shoulder pad that comes with the bag is a little lacking. It's not uncomfortable, but for long periods with my bag I would like some more padding. I have heard that the deluxe shoulder strap pad that timbuk2 sells for $15 is a worthwhile investment. I will order that item and update this review when it comes.This bag, unlike the Timbuk2 command, does not come with velcro silencers. These can be ordered for $3 directly from Timbuk2. I ordered the silencers so that when I open the flap during class there isn't a loud velcro sound. The velcro and buckles are redundant for closing the flap. This is useful for those who want extra security, but not necessary most of the time.This bag is quite similar to the command line of bags. the command line has a slightly different look, and has a differently oriented laptop compartment. My friend has the command, and honestly they are similar enough that I don't think you could go wrong with either one. The command has metal hooks to keep the flap closed instead of buckles. This is supposedly quieter (though the buckles are easy to open and close silently), but command's the metal hooks don't stay closed nearly as well and sometimes flap loose. Overall, order either one with confidence.This bag comes with a lifetime guarantee against manufacturing defects from Timbuk2. From what I've heard, they have great customer support, but I have not yet dealt with them personally.I haven't found any negatives with this bag yet, but if I do I will update this review.

My job is primarily travel-based, so a good messenger bag is a must. I switched from a Samsonite Colombian Leather Flapover Case, Brown, One Size to the Timbuk2 for a few reasons. Foremost, the Samsonite is an excellent, functional messenger bag with a great price and exceptionally good looks. The downsides are mostly preferential and the replacement reasons for me were as a result of the rigors of air travel. The leather began to look rough for wear and I intend on keeping it, so my newfound requirements became: non-leather material that wasn't boring black nylon, external water bottle pockets (I'm an instructor, so trying to teach all day with dry mouth sucks. External pockets make like a lot easier), water resistant (I bike commute when not flying around), and easy to remove laptops. This bag blows those requirements out of the water. While by no means as stylish and good looking as the Samsonite, the Timbuk2 is well-made, the light blue offsets the olive drab very well. This is one of those items that you purchase and think, "Damn, a new standard has been set." This bag literally makes my life a bit easier. It seems bizarre to me to wax poetic over a simple tool like this, but the little things this bag has sets it apart and makes it worth the price. The water bottle pockets on the exterior are great. The interior is lined with waterproof material in the light blue color, so I presume it will standup to rain well (haven't tested this aspect yet). That exterior laptop holder is something that once you have, you really come to appreciate. If you travel frequently, I highly recommend this messenger bag.

3/2021 Old Style Commute Messenger Travel BagUpdate. Daily user for the past 7 years. It's traveled back and forth to the US Mainland, Europe, Asia, and several business trips as an smaller overnight bag across the Molokai Channel to Honolulu. It accompanies me everywhere.The (now discontinued?) zipped "lay-flat" laptop hinge is great and reduces the amount of time taking out the MacBook Air laptop. As you can see in the photos the bag is well used and beat.Just recently I was considering to update the bag due to fraying, shoulder bag D-ring attachment rips and interior flaking waterproof flap material. The elasticity for the water bottle holder was spent and torn.Before ordering a new bag ($120) and thinking the warranty is up after 7-8 years, I inquired about repairs and sent the bag in. Timbuk2 quickly replied and told me they can offer repairs for $25. Took 6 weeks and as you can see in the pics sent back the bag to last another 5-7 years. Why use any other company?11/2019Update. Daily user for past 4 years. Getting worn on inside lining that’s flaking off. Used this for travel. Only had to replace shoulder pad. Will update to another eventually.Org. Great little bag. Pretty comfortable as well.Used daily. Durable, elegant and saves space. No fraying, staining like cheaper bags.Great for travel with all devices. Almost big enough for an overnight-er.