Customer Reviews Timbuk2 Command Pack

I needed to upgrade to a larger backpack, since I commute into the city and need an entire day's worth of accessories (laptop, paperwork, chargers, lunchbox, water bottle, etc). The Command bag fits everything I need comfortably, and has a bunch of different sections and compartments to keep my things organized. It's also well-cushioned to help me shoulder the additional weight. The biggest drawback to the bag has been my experience riding it while riding my bicycle. As a bicycle commuter, I've found that its size and shape create an uncomfortably large blindspot when I'm glancing over my shoulder. It's large enough and sits high enough on my shoulders that there's a portion of my visibility when looking behind that's obstructed, making it easier to possibly miss a car or cyclist when changing lanes. If I didn't love the backpack so much otherwise, I'd probably return it. As it is, I'm needing to be even more careful when cycling while riding it. Any other cyclist considering purchasing should take this into consideration, and if possible try the bag out in person to see if it presents a problem for them as well. For everyone else, it's a no-brainer.

This bag is hands down awesome! Lots of pockets, well thought out and designed. However, I do agree with others that the straps are uncomfortable. I'm only returning this because it's just not large enough for my needs. Also, their customer service is SPECTACULAR.

The Command Backpack is great for someone like me- always with a laptop, an e-reader and a tablet, with a couple of notebooks with lots of pens, chargers, cables and other little things that need good organizational pockets. However, the backpack sorely misses a waterbottle and coffee pocket that ACTUALLY work. The waterbottle pocket on the side is tiny. My water bottle has fallen out of my backpack quite a few times. Now I have to carry a tote bag in addition to carry my coffee mug and waterbottle. I wish Timbuk2 makes inside pockets for this bg like it has for its other messenger bags. It'll be close to perfect then!

I love the style and the quality of this backpack. Only wish the beverage holder pocket is deeper and bigger. A water bottle often falls off from the pocket.

I was looking for a bag which was a little more streamlined and stylish than your typical large black work backpack you see many carry...as I did for a few years. I was impressed with the gray finish on this and different compartments so I thought I'd give it a try. The demo videos posted on the site were very helpful in making my decision on which bag to choose. I did find it took a little bit to get used to the fit on my back...seemed a little higher than I was used to. But after using it for a week plus I can say I'm glad I found this bag and purchased it. I like the security of the laptop pocket being between your back and the front of the bag...so it has to be off for you to take it out. The slash/front pockets are useful for items which are frequently accessed, glasses, charger, keys, access cards. And the main pockets offer plenty of space for other items you may carry. Also glad to support an American company.

Great product! Still hurts my back a bit, but I think that's inevitable with any backpack.

Overall, not a bad backpack at all. I have never tried the "tsa" approved-ness of the pack. It is a bit of a pain to get your laptop in and out. The laptop sleeve is sideload...and you have to zip it a fair bit to get it open and access the laptop. It does have an sleeve pocket in the same compartment as the laptop pocket that is easier to use (assuming you have a MacBook Air sided laptop). The bottle opener kind of sticks out, I'd rather it was on the pack rather than the strap. That would make it a bit more professional looking.

I just bought a new 17" laptop. When I went looking for a bag that was big enough, my first stop was Timbuk2. Having had a few of their bags in the past (mostly messenger bags), I knew I like their product. I was pleased to find that Timbuk2 had a "fitting guide" online. I plugged in my new laptop, and it said it was a fit. When the bag arrived, I was disappointed to find out that my laptop didn't fit in the laptop compartment. In fact, it barely fit in the bag at all. The compartment it did fit in was so snug that the corners of the computer would have easily worn out the bag in very little time. Plus, there was no added protection in the only compartment it fit in. I would suggest that Timbuk2 make sure that their "fitting guide" is updated with the most recent specs before suggesting that their bag would hold a specific laptop.

I needed to switch to a traditional backpack for my work bag because I am now carrying a baby and a messenger diaper bag. It was too clunky otherwise. This fits the bill and more, replacing at least 2 other bags in my quiver, one of which was an overnight bag. My one improvement would be to add a second zipper to the front pocket on the opposite side so that, when both are opened, it can be used as a luggage pass through so you can put this bag on a wheelaboard suitcase.

I use this for work and travel. Things that are great are it's laptop compartment (and padding) and bottom straps for jackets, travel pillow, etc. and comfort. This backpack needs better organization inside the larger compartments. I read that on the reviews so I was aware it was a challenge. But there is considerable wasted space. It could be easily organized by velcro-type inserts that could make larger compartments into smaller sections when needed for business and larger when needed for travel. Additionally the bottom does not sit flat/square when packed and means the bag tips over constantly. Again, a minor annoyance but one that could be resolved with a better internal design. It has resulted in numerous spills when I have placed drinks in the water bottle holder on the side. The bottle opener is not needed for professional and I would have preferred to have a selection of additions (clip loops, reflective stripes, higher quality zippers) or charge less for the bag. Over all a great bag that could made even better with a few adjustments. It is stylish and I feel professional with it at the office or traveling.

Overall great bag. This is the second bag I bought for myself. The straps get uncomfortable when the bag is fully loaded, but otherwise okay. I used it for a recent long flight and it worked great. Would be nice to have a pocket on it for a power brick for easy access as it tends to get buried otherwise.

I have been doing a lot of research into getting a bag. In the end I had bought the timbuk2 and the osprey bitstream. I have to say, even though the timbuk 2 looks small in profile I was able to fit the following into my backpack for my daily commute to work & gym. 1. laptop 2. file folder 3. toiletries 4. packable rain jacket 5. small snack box 6. regular lunch box (800 ml) 7. small towel 8. shorts 9. gym shirt 10. socks, underwear 11. gym shoes 12. small shaker bottle 13. sunglasses 14. wallet 15. keys 16. charger cables so as you can tell, you can fit all of those things in the backpack and it still looks stylish. I am happy with it thus far, furthermore it feels very comfortable on my shoulders (which I couldnt say about the osprey, which i will be returning) only cons are, the waterbottle pocket is too small, wish there were custom options, wish the secondary pocket had a little bit more width. my score is 8.5/10

I use it as a briefcase replacement. The look is perfect. It needs to have more space....

This bag can pack a lot of stuff it's rather surprising. Took it for travel and it easily holds 3-4 shirts, an extra pair of pants, toiletries etc., with room to spare for small electronics, some documents, and a 15" laptop, while perfectly maintaining its form factor. It comes with a sternum strap which I found really helpful when I was lugging this around through airports, streets, etc. with a full load. It helps keep the weight centered on your body rather than pulling on shoulders apart. It makes a lot of difference. For days where I only have to bring a few stuff, you can cinch it down to a flatter profile without it looking squished like most other backpacks do. This is really well designed. The material feel durable and I expect it to last a long time. Although it's not completely waterproof, it keeps water out really well during light rains. Only complaint is that the water-bottle holder only fits those tall and slender bottles, but is too shallow to hold them in place securely. It's the perfect place to stash a Timbuk2 Rain Cover, though.

Not bad. It doesn't fit as much as a real camping backpack can, or a fully expanded chromebag can, but it's nice at the airport (you don't need this if you have TSA pre). The waterbottle doesn't hold super securely.

i could not use the product as it did not fit my 15" HP laptop in the protected compartment. it could fit a mac laptop so i gave it to a friend. i was disappointed as i was told it would fit my 15" PC.

This is a great bag with a comfortable fit. There is a lot of space in this bag, but there is also a lot of wasted space up high. I would love to see an attachment/pullout that was inside the main compartment. This would be super functional and practical.

Overall, everything is great with the product. It's affordable for such a great product. My only issue was with a zipper that broke in the first couple weeks of use.

I did a lot of research online to find the right backpack. I considered everything from a high-end luggage manufacturer to more commonly available outdoor manufacturer. I wanted something stylish, well-balanced, and comfortable. I looked for lots of storage and a pack that would fit well on my narrower shoulders. I found it all with this pack. You can't tell from the photos, but this thing has a lot of storage! I can carry all of my work-related gear and files, plus the contents normally found in my purse. Very comfortable! Two things I would like to see changed: a place to clip my keys and waterproof material, since I live in Seattle. This would make it 5 stars. Try it! You won't be sorry.

Overall, good product. The padded laptop compartment did not work for me. My laptop was under dimension in all but thickness (1.3" vs 1.2")and would not fit by a long shot. Possible add-ons that would be nice: 1. Detachable strap for keys etc. that is inside organizer area (common in business bags). 2. Internal loop for attaching carabiner that I use for keys,etc. 3. ID holder on outside for travel luggage ID (common on business bags). Potential concerns: 1. Side handle strap, wonder if gussets will fail and eventually tear out, after all, a handle invites giving the bag a yank. 2. Concerned about zippers, historically, I've had better fortune with large tooth zippers, they last longer and seldom bind or seize (time will tell). Esthetic: It's a good looking bag. Stylish even. Hope the beer bottle opener works on a bottle of Stag.

Used it for business travels. It's a breeze going through TSA checks with this bag. No hassle of having to take out the laptop. Just unzip the compartment fully and place the whole bag on the conveyor belt. It is big enough to pack your clothes for a 1-2 day trip too. Great bag to have.

I use this backpack to go to and from work, on short day trips where I need my laptop, and short travel for when I'm gone a night or two. It has plenty of room for work stuff plus clothes for those short trips. The ability to leave the laptop and tablet in the backpack is quite nice going through security at airports. For day-to-day activities it is also great and comfortable while commuting. It Is comfortable on my back while walking and has plenty of storage for cables and other items. It's definitely worth consideration.

Love the bag. I need to use it as a backpack but often times just swing one shoulder on, but the stars are to slick and I have a heck of a time keeping it on my shoulder. Zippers pockets need to open further Maybe an outer utility pocket would be good

Love the TSA computer holder feature that allows you to simply unzip the exterior of the backpack when going through security. Also the backpack is roomy enought to carry stuff you need for long flights and I can fit a small jacket in it as well. And the pack looks as professional as a backpack can look. Lasley exterior water bottle holder is a thumbs up. This is a well designed pack.

I like the durability of my backpack and can tell It will last longer than most. My only wish is that it had a better way to organize all the charging cables we carry around in today's world. I will probably buy a grid it but would have loved to have that built in.