TIMBUK2 Wander Pack Convertible Backpack Duffel Is a Travelers New Best Friend

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At the top of the pack is another zipper that opens to reveal a smaller space for toiletries or electronics. A mesh pocket inside this flap is perfect for cables, chargers and batteries.

And at the front of the bag is yet another zipper that opens to reveal a space for additional small items.

Along the top of the pack is another zipper. As with all of the other zippers, it is secured by two pulls so it is easy to open. (I love the fact that every single zipper has dual pulls!) It opens to reveal a padded space that is large enough for a 15” laptop. When I’ve used the pack it is perfect for both my 13” MacBook Pro and my 10.5” iPad Pro.

Two straps on each side extend from the front to the back of the Wander Pack. These secure along each side in two places and can be used to compress the contents inside and make carrying the bag a bit simpler. They have the added advantage that if you, as I do, overfill bags, it takes pressure off the zippers.

The Wander Pack is a flexible travel accessory that can be used either as a backpack or as a duffel.

Wanter Pack as a backpack:

The Wander Pack has two padded straps that have a slightly rough material inside so the straps won’t slip when you are wearing it and moving. The back panel is mesh with a slight bit of padding. No, this isn’t the most padded backpack rear panel I’ve seen on a backpack but this isn’t the type of pack that needs such padding. It is noteworthy that this rear panel is divided into three parts with the smaller middle part adding a bit of comfort since the backpack won’t press as much on your spine as it would were the panel a single piece of material. One of the straps has an anchor to which you can clip a flashlight, small portable speaker or any number of other items. Of course, the Wander Pack also has a sternum strap for added comfort and security.

Wanter Pack as a duffel:

The real beauty of the Wander Pack is that you can hide the straps and turn it into a duffel.

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To do this you simply disconnect the shoulder straps for where they are secured at the bottom, TIMBUK2 used an ingenious easy-release connector on the bottom, and stash the straps into the opening at the top of the bag.

The straps disappear from view and give the bag a clean look.

Now, of course, if you hide the straps away you’ll need a way to still carry the Wander Pack. TIMBUK2 took care of this by adding hand straps to both the side and the top of the pack. They have just enough padding to make them comfortable without adding too significantly to the weight.

The TIMBUK2 Wander Pack is a fantastic bag. It has plenty of room for a weekend trip, has smart, but not overwhealming, organization built into it, can function as either a duffel or a backpack, moves between the two modes of use within seconds and, of course, is well made since it comes from TIMBUK2. I’ve already used it a few times and can see myself using it for trips that don’t require me bringing a suit for years to come. Check it out here.

Source: Manufacturer supplied review sample of the TIMBUK2 Wander Pack

What I Like: Well made; Plenty of carrying capacity; Smart but not overwhelming organization built into it; Can let you carry and protect up to a 15” laptop; Converts between duffel and backpack in seconds; Double zipper pulls all around

What Needs Improvement: Priced like the quality bag it is; Straps and back panel are not super padded

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About the Author

Dan Cohen
Having a father who was heavily involved in early laser and fiber-optical research, Dan grew up surrounded by technology and gadgets. Dan’s father brought home one of the very first video games when he was young and Dan remembers seeing a “pre-release” touchtone phone. (When he asked his father what the “#” and “*” buttons were his dad said, “Some day, far in the future, we’ll have some use for them.”) Technology seemed to be in Dan’s blood but at some point he took a different path and ended up in the clergy. His passion for technology and gadgets never left him. Dan is married to Raina Goldberg who is also an avid user of Apple products. They live in New Jersey with their golden doodle Nava.

1 Comment on "TIMBUK2 Wander Pack Convertible Backpack Duffel Is a Travelers New Best Friend"

  1. how about for 3-6 month travel to south east asia ? Would you recommend it? Is it light enough and comfortable enough for carry on only travel (ie one bag travel)? Thanks

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