Customer Reviews Timbuk2 Classic Messenger - Medium

I'm a control system programmer and work in the field a lot. I need to carry a laptop, a variety of cables, a few small adapters & tools, etc. The small messenger is the perfect size for my needs. My laptop (Dell XPS-15 9550) does not fit properly in the laptop sleeve, though the calculator says it will fit. I ended up purchasing a bag with the document sleeve instead...the way the corners of the doc sleeve are constructed, allows for a slightly larger machine, and mine fits perfectly. FWIW, if your machine's dimensions are greater than 9.25" x 11.25", be suspicious of how it will fit, regardless of what the calculator says. The highlights: -The strap, shoulder pad, and buckle are the best I've ever encountered. Comfortable and easy to adjust. There's a lot of other bag manufacturers that could take some lessons here. -The size of the (small) bag itself. There are plenty of >20L messenger bags on the market, but very few under 20L, that offer any possibility of carrying a laptop. -Material seems quite durable, and the waterproof liner material along with the well thought out closure gives me confidence if I get caught out in the rain. -Plenty of zipper pockets for storing bits and things. The issues: -I know I'm not using the bag quite as intended (carrying a laptop without a laptop sleeve), but I wish there was a bit of padding to the back panel. I ended up adding my own (automotive headliner foam), and it improved the comfort significantly. -The water bottle pockets are a bit small. Granted, they couldn't be made much bigger without increasing the size of the bag. -The basic, alloy zipper pulls rattle around more than I'd like. I replaced all mine with nylon pull tabs. Easy fix. -The largest, internal zipper pocket could be bigger...width and depth. -I hate Velcro, and would prefer to have it entirely omitted from the bag (not even an option if ordered custom). The silencer strips are an acceptable compromise. Overall, I think the bag is excellent. I can fit everything I need without an excessive amount of extra space. For reference, I can fit everything that you see in the picture, plus an iPad Air, notepad, a couple energy bars, and a small bottle of water. Highly recommended.

I admit the only reason I've been motivated to write a review is due to all the reviews claiming it needs more this or that because it's used as a purse or a briefcase but doesn't have all the features of XX brand briefcase or purse. This is a messenger bag, designed to haul things and be easily adjusted and accessed while riding. Yes it is perfectly capable of myriad other uses, but it isn't designed to be, so accept that if you don't plan on using a messenger bag and want a briefcase, Timbuk2 make plenty of other briefcase oriented bags. This is the only remaining true messenger bag Timbuk2 makes, please stop asking them to turn it into something it's not designed to be. We don't all just carry laptops, headphones, and magazines, but use it for transporting large, heavy, bulky items from place to place via bike. The adjustable strap admittedly gave me some aggravation until I watched one of their videos that actually showed someone adjusting it while wearing it with a load. So simple and very useful. I used to set it and forget it, opting to not fuss with it, but now I utilize that feature all the time. I do wish the clamp closure was a bit more secure, it can get opened when on a crowded metro train or while portaging your bike, causing the bag to slip down. A latching mechanism would be the only improvement item I would ask. And really that's a minor annoyance when carrying a heavy or over-sized load. Another feature I love is the straps running under the bag, perfect for storing a rain jacket or coat while traveling, riding, shopping, eating, what-have-you. I've also used them to haul a stuff-sack of clothing to expand the carrying capacity of the bag without adding a second bag/suitcase to carry on trips. The inside is cavernous despite it's small appearance. I have a medium and thought I should have purchased a large, but this bag is well capable of carrying more that it appears. I used it weekly for grocery trips, beer/wine hauling and picnics(I have the chiller insert and highly recommend it), travel, for daily work and commuting, for bike touring, and hiking. It's very versatile. If you need compartments or more organization, I recommend purchasing some packing cubes to use with the bags. I do that to make grabbing what I need and going easier. Also easier and tidier when emptying the bag for another use or when traveling. This bag is the epitome of "less is more". I'm very impressed with and am continually amazed by this bag. I do wish they would bring bag an XL option, even if it's custom only. My friend has 2 old XL T2 bags and they are ideal for hauling camping gear, laundry, and larger bundles. I also use the silencer strips as it makes getting into and out of the bag easier and prevents the velcro from snagging wool sweaters and cycling clothing when accessing the bag or storing in the bag.

Just got a classic messenger bag in size small. It fits all my books for school and also fits all my tech gadgets. I'm very impressed by how sturdy this bag is. The strap adjustment works great and it's comfy. Pockets and organization are well designed and functional. Also , the zippers are high quality. A++ for me. Couldn't be happier

My bag fits perfect for work, my lab top, small knife roll, Chef coat and my Apron.

It holds all my "stuff" including plein air art supplies. I like to travel light so the XS works great for me. The quality is fantastic.

I will use the Classic Messenger as my everyday bag, and on long trips it will fit my 16" laptop and tablet. The bag is rather comfortable and on my commute to and from work, the bag didn't hinder or interfere with anyone around me. The tassel to the adjustable straps are a bit long and could perhaps some day have an extra holder to keep it from dangling.

I washed my messenger bag today in anticipation if another season of biking all over Chicagoland. I originally bought it in the late '90s and it's still my go to bag for the long commute. Everything still functions as well as the day I bought it. I've bought many other pieces of luggage over the years, but nothing has stood the test of time and mileage better than my messenger bag.

Work/gum

Boy I wish I had bought one sooner! This thing has a lot of room for my work essentials, paperwork, tablet and water bottle. On the weekends I use it to carry nerdy things too. The strap is nice and padded. Sometimes I carry heavy items from the office to home and the bag holds up well and the strap doesn't dig into my shoulder. One thing I would like to see changed is the size of the inner water bottle pouch. It barely fits my hydroflask. Other than that, it's an awesome messenger bag that will hopefully last a lifetime.

This bag is perfect for my needs. I walk to work everyday with the size small messenger bag slung across my shoulder; it holds my lunch and an umbrella among other small necessities; and has plenty of room if I need to bring my laptop home. It's very well organized with compartments for pens, eyeglasses, a water bottle, as well as a secret zipped pocket that's big enough to put documents in - which I didn't realize it was there for several days after using it. There's also a couple of pockets on the outside that could hold smaller, flat items. I like how flexible it is such that it handles items most Messenger bags of this size couldn't. When I have my soft lunch cooler/bag in it, it doesn't seem tight or unnatural, and a floor forms at the bottom, magically creating room for more stuff. One improvement I would like to see is an outside pocket that is accessible without having to open the flap; a small flat pocket I could put my key card in - which I need to get into my building. I understand the larger bags do have this feature, but I feel this bag could accommodate one as well. Nonetheless, you won't find anything better as far as a messenger bag that combines durability and functionality. I'll probably get the extra small size bag as well for train rides to NYC when I just want to take my iPad.

I use this nice messenger bag to carry all my peripherals my iPhone, my charger, my earbuds, car keys, and anything else I can think of in this technology age that we live in

This is the perfect day pack. Just enough space for the things I need. Doesn't look like a purse.

I love this bag. I've owned lots of bags, from lots of different brands, and what I have realized over the years is that the bags that actually see the most use are my Timbuk2 bags. This bag is no different. It spacious without being overbearing, has plenty of pockets for organization, and is comfortable to wear for long periods of time. This is my new EDC and I couldn't be happier with it! Only thing I would have bought differently is probably done a custom one with the laptop sleeve. But it's not that big of a deal as I have a padded sleeve for my laptop that I just throw into the bag when I actually carry my laptop.

This is a very nice bag. It's pricey, it has plenty of pockets. It us built in a sturdy manner. Glad I bought this small but extremely handy bag.

I have had 2 classic messenger bags for the past 12+ years. My first one was handed down slightly used and I was able to use it throughout my college years and as a work bag after. I didn't care much for it but it did the job and I had no complaints. Eventually the inner lining started to crack and peel and I took it back to a timbuk2 store and they sent it in for repair. I was shocked when they said that they would cover it under warranty for a nominal shipping fee. Alas I decided I'd part ways and instead I opted for a voucher towards a new bag. I've now used this bag for over 5 years as a work bag and it still looks new. The only thing that might give away its age is that the closure strap is a bit worn and frayed from getting caught in the Velcro. I wouldn't hesitate to buy another one if I ever need another messenger. Now for the cons, the bags durability comes at the price of weight. The cordura fabric is heavier than alternative fabrics that I've seen on other bags but then again I'm not sure how those bags would wear overtime.

This bag is such a fantastic choice! It's the perfect blend of style and functionalityideal for staying organized while on the go. The sleek, athletic vibe makes it versatile for both casual outings and active days.

Perfect size for use as a travel briefcase. Fits under seat for even the most restrictive airlines like Ryan Air. Multiple zipped pockets give some peace of mind for keeping things in place. The outside flap is secured by two clips and also Velcro, so a casual thief won't be able to easily open and grab your stuff.

This a great color I use it for the gym. Love the room for shoes and clothes.

Love this bag! I got a small and it's a perfect commuter bag for all essentials. If you're looking for more room, go with a medium.

My 15-year old wanted this bag. She loves it except for the loud Velcro sound when opening the bag. She applied felt to the attachment to keep it silent in class. Bag is attractive. Good size for a student.

This bag was a hit for Christmas. I bought it for my wife who was using a tote bag to lug files back and forth from work. The bag is roomy enough for her files and to also transport a 20 oz water bottle. She likes the design and the multiple pockets to keep office essentials.

Love this bag! My third timbuk2 bag and my favorite so far. Perfect size for work stuff or going up skiing for the day. Love the organizational pockets for work items.

I gave this as a Christmas present and the recipient is stoked! Plenty of room for computer and whatever else for trips of all sorts. It'll last forever, just like the pack I've had for 15 or so years. Keep it up Timbuk2!

This bag was a gift to a newbie of Timbuk2. She loves it and is not using it as her daily grab bag with all her gear ready to go..

I use this for a work bag for my laptop and notebooks. It works great and is light weight.