The Bottom Line
The Timbuk2 Detour 2.0 laptop backpack earns the Student Travel Best Laptop Backpack 2005 award because it pads plus-size laptops. Because it's comfortable to haul in multiple ways. Because it has multiple personalities. Because it's rough and tough. Because somebody who's dragged a laptop around designed it: great daypack / laptop backpacks spring from those who've used them -- kudos to the Timbuk2 designers. Check it out.
Pros
- Closure on interior pocket keeps laptop in place
Cons
- Wish they'd resisted the multi-color messenger bag thing
Description
- Ballistic® nylon exterior and heavy stitching.
- Waterproof rubberized bottom (excellent for standing around train stations).
- Padded carrying and backpack handles / straps.
- Removable shoulder strap; stowable backpack strap.
- Large exterior front pockets; interior laptop compartment.
- Two exterior stow pockets (perfect for water bottles and cell phone).
- Padded interior laptop sleeve protects plus-size laptops.
- Available in black, olive, red and navy (messenger bag-type trim colors: black or silver).
Guide Review - Best Laptop Backpack 2005 - Timbuk2 Detoru 2.0 Laptop Backpack
I have two laptops. I love them both but I can't say I give them equal frequent flyer miles: my 12" iBook is a snap to pack; my 17" Powerbook is a problem child. Finding a decent laptop backpack that will coddle my biggest baby in the manner to which it should be accustomed without wrecking my back is like finding a babysitter for your kid sister on Saturday night.
Hold the phone cord -- the winner is here: Timbuk2's Detour 2.0 laptop backpack. Did I say backpack? It's so much more... stow the back straps and it's a shoulder bag. Lose the shoulder strap and it's a carry bag. No matter which incarnation you choose to use, it's a carry-on, and wide straps from all personality morphs make packing the Timbuk2 Detour around campus comfortable.
Check laptop size chart before you buy to make sure your own baby fits.
Check out a step by step guide to packing the Timbuk2 laptop backpack with the coolest travel tech gadgets.
