5 days 5 bags – day 1: Timbuk2 Patrol ballistic fabric

For the next 5 days, I’ll be reviewing one piece of luggage a day. Today’s bag is the Timbuk2 Patrol ballistic fabric.

The Patrol is a nifty multifunctional bag which can be converted from a regular bag to a backpack in about 20 seconds. The bag features 2 main compartments – one for your clothes and other items, and one internal padded compartment for your laptop. The design is quite brilliant as the laptop portion “hangs” in the main compartment, which means it can be protected not only by its own padding, but also by whatever clothes you pack in the bag.

On the outside of the bag are 4 compression straps, which make it ideal for “overstuffing”, a packing method that has often saved me.

The Timbuk2 Patrol has pockets everywhere – 2 storage pouches on the outside, 2 waterproof zones on the
inside, a separate folding pouch in the main compartment and a very well hidden compartment on the back.

The shoulder straps can be unclipped, and packed in a pocket in the back portion, keeping them out of the way. This also makes it easier if you need to check the bag (ugh) or when you want to carry it using the top or side handles.

The back of the bag has thick foam pads to keep you comfortable. Each foam pad also has air circulation channels.

All in all a real travelers best friend – all the components feel sturdy, zippers are the highly rated YKK brand and the ballistic fabric feels like it could stop a bullet.

The price is a little steep, but very much in line with other premium luggage products. The version I tested here is the “brown/flame” version, which stands out a little, but it really does make for a cool looking color combination.

Dimensions (W*H*D): 14.5*19*8
Weight: 4.1lb
Colors available: Black, dark brown/flame, spinach/army
Warranty: Lifetime, no hassle
Price: $225
Product page: Timbuk2.com