Timbuk2 Classic Messenger XS - perfect fit together with apple case *pics inside

[hard-case]

would the classic messenger XS fit a 13" aluminum macbook pro?? or should i just go with the S ?

DEFINITELY get the S. Rule of thumb, IIRC, for calculating is to add the length + depth to see if the pocket will fit the laptop. 13" Aluminum Macbook Pro is 12.78", and depth is 0.95", so you're looking at 13.73". I just measured the slash pocket on my Classic Messenger S (2010 model bought this week), and a rough estimate is right about 14", maybe just a hair more, and considering the XS is over 3" smaller width-wise that the S....

If you look at the pics already posted, a 9.7" tall iPad on it's side is a rather tight fit.

 

[zacheryjensen]

According to Timbuk2 it's 48".

Oh I thought this was the new net book messenger. That one does not have a strap length listed and the reviews I have read say it is even shorter than this classic XS. That is why I asked. Oh well! A lot of people seem to prefer the classic anyway, ironically, due to it having less padding in the notebook pouch.

 

[jedolley]

Oh I thought this was the new net book messenger. That one does not have a strap length listed and the reviews I have read say it is even shorter than this classic XS. That is why I asked. Oh well! A lot of people seem to prefer the classic anyway, ironically, due to it having less padding in the notebook pouch.

I don't think they list strap length. I actually inquired about this a few weeks ago and e-mailed them and that was their response for the Classic Messenger. It's actually the same strap length as last year's Classic Messenger (which I have), and it's a tad bit too short for my liking.

 

[Merlosso]

A couple of tips...

Here are a couple of tips for anyone considering one of these bags.

First, there are model years for Timbuk2 bags, just like cars. What you see on the Timbuk2 site for the Classic Messenger is the 2010 model and it has new features compared to previous years. From the Timbuk2 site description:

After two decades of nurturing, we've pushed our classic messenger out of the nest and onto the street. Armed with a vastly improved cam buckle, side-entry Napoleon pocket, color-coordinated, three-zipper front organizer, and an incredibly useful slash pocket, our Classic Messenger is all grown up. These feature upgrades mean better performance in everyday urban adventures.

If you are buying directly from Timbuk2 you will get the 2010 model. If you are buying at a local store or another online store, be aware that they may have different model years. The previous model years are usually discounted more than the current so there are deals to be found. It just depends on what you want. When I did a Google search, most sites did not specify the model year. Of those that did, I saw 2008, 2009, and 2010.

Second, the Freestyle Netbook Messenger is based on the 2009 Classic Messenger XS. It does not say this on the site but I confirmed it with Timbuk2 by email. The difference between it an the 2009 Classic is that the Freestyle has a built in padded netbook sleeve. TraceyS/FL posted a link to some great pictures of this bag on the first page of this thread where you can see the built in sleeve.

I was going back and forth on whether to get the Classic XS or the Freestyle. Thank you to those of you that posted pics and reviews of each. I finally decided to go with the 2010 Classic Messenger XS and I placed my order with ebags.com. I confirmed with an ebags rep by chat that it's the 2010 model and right now they have 10% off with free shipping.

If you like the Timbuk2 Classic Messenger bag, you have a lot of options at different price points. Hopefully this helps you find the bag that best fits your needs.

- John -

 

[LKeighty4]

Moosejaw.com has the Timbuk2 classic messenger XS on sale for 56.00 and free shipping. It's the spring 2010 version. They don't have all the colors available on the Timbuk2 website but if you can find a color you like it's a great deal!

 

[TraceyS/FL]

I was going back and forth on whether to get the Classic XS or the Freestyle. Thank you to those of you that posted pics and reviews of each. I finally decided to go with the 2010 Classic Messenger XS and I placed my order with ebags.com. I confirmed with an ebags rep by chat that it's the 2010 model and right now they have 10% off with free shipping.

Darn - i have a coupon for 20% off with ebags right now i would have shared!

 

[Merlosso]

Darn - i have a coupon for 20% off with ebags right now i would have shared!

Does it include free shipping? I found one online for 20% off but the 10% off with free shipping ended up being cheaper.

Oh well, I missed out but I'm sure there is someone else here that would love to have it.

 

[julip]

Thank you to the OP and the rest for your great reviews! Also thank you to the poster about the gift card discounts. I found a great deal here:

Mountain High Outfitters

Right now they have a sale on their $100 Bag In A Box gift cards, for $75 with free UPS ground shipping. I have never ordered from them before, but they do have Google checkout. I received an email from the store soon after letting me know my order would ship out today, and my UPS tracking number just hours after ordering.

 

[TraceyS/FL]

Does it include free shipping? I found one online for 20% off but the 10% off with free shipping ended up being cheaper.

Oh well, I missed out but I'm sure there is someone else here that would love to have it.

I'm not sure actually - probably not, i normally try a bunch of them and see what works out the cheapest. I also bought thru eBates. I think i had free shipping because it was over $75. i think! LOL!!

eBags Insiders enjoy an EXTRA 20% OFF your entire purchase through 4/19/2010. This special offer cannot be combined with any other discounts, and does not apply to eBags Corporate Sales orders. Your savings is automatically applied to your order at checkout and you must click through email to activate. Alternatively, you can enter promotional code EMMWFF20 to receive your special savings. Discounts do not apply toward the purchase of gift certificates. Discounts do not apply to selected products and brands on our site due to manufacturer's restrictions.

 

[BossHogg]

REI members get 20% off plus free shipping until tomorrow. Can pick up the S 2010 for $66. Grabbed one Myself and they made some great improvements with all the pockets. Compartment really keep your iPad out of trouble too !

 

[myvideoreviewer]

What Timbuk2 Bag for MacBook Air (and iPad)

I am wondering if there is anyone out here with Timbuk2 (Classic Messenger or Laptop Messenger or Freestyle) and a MacBook Air.

What model (XS or S) works perfect for the Air? I also have the in-case thin sleeve that I use to put the MacBook Air for care while traveling.

I have an Air and an iPad. Sometimes I take the Air with me as I commute via subway and sometimes I just take an iPad.

I want to know which Timbuk2 to get: Classic (XS or S sizes), Laptop (S size), or FreeStyle (XS size).

Thank you all.

 

[xraytech]

Just got mine today...

Timbuk2 always makes a great product.

All Black with an Orange Logo, Center Panel & Interior.

I used the "Build Your Own Bag" app at http://www.timbuk2.com

Those wondering, yes I'm a San Francisco Giants Fan.

 

[xraytech]

Regarding the issue about padding.

I use a folded bath towel to line the bottom of my Timbuk2.

For the inner sleeve, I use the thinnest sheet of foam rubber from the hardware store.

 

[LKeighty4]

I am wondering if there is anyone out here with Timbuk2 (Classic Messenger or Laptop Messenger or Freestyle) and a MacBook Air.

What model (XS or S) works perfect for the Air? I also have the in-case thin sleeve that I use to put the MacBook Air for care while traveling.

I have an Air and an iPad. Sometimes I take the Air with me as I commute via subway and sometimes I just take an iPad.

I want to know which Timbuk2 to get: Classic (XS or S sizes), Laptop (S size), or FreeStyle (XS size).

Thank you all.

Definitely a small, at least. Between the classic and the laptop that would be up to you. I opted for a xs classic messenger over the freestyle for my iPad because, even though the padded sleeve is nice, I wanted to be able to use my bag for other things too and felt like having the padded sleeve in there all the time might be bulky/annoying/weird. To the best of my knowledge, it's not removable.
I have a sleeve for my iPad so I didn't care that the classic slash pocket isn't very padded. If you have a separate sleeve I would suggest a small classic messenger. I might even suggest a medium if you want extra room to carry books, etc.

 

[omgitscro]

I have a (lime green/lime green/gray) timbuk2 small 2010 classic messenger. It is designed for the 13" MacBook Pro. I use it as my school bag, and so the XS was too small to fit papers and binders. The small is perfect! I carry around some notebooks and my iPad,and sometimes my MBP as well. Great bag!

 

[jedolley]

For those that are interested, Timbuk2 has a 10% off everything offer today only. I think this would be best on custom bags as stock bags are usually found cheaper elsewhere. Coupon code is "BALLISTIC".

 

[Erieg]

I am thinking about getting one of these bags but I am not sure of two things. The first is the size. I want to be able to carry the iPad, the charger, my iPhone, a camera (small point and click) and probably a case for my glasses and my keys. Would a XS fit that?

The second thing I am wondering about is the strap. I looked at the pictures and it seems the strap length make the bag stay behind your back, almost like a backpack. I want to be able to get things in and out of the bag without taking it off. Is access to the bag easy?

 

[jedolley]

I am thinking about getting one of these bags but I am not sure of two things. The first is the size. I want to be able to carry the iPad, the charger, my iPhone, a camera (small point and click) and probably a case for my glasses and my keys. Would a XS fit that?

Yes, there is an interior section that is perfect for the accessories you mention.

The second thing I am wondering about is the strap. I looked at the pictures and it seems the strap length make the bag stay behind your back, almost like a backpack. I want to be able to get things in and out of the bag without taking it off. Is access to the bag easy?

I believe the models have the bags on their backs is because the main target audience of their bags are bicyclists. The strap length is a bit short IMO, but I was still able to carry my classic messenger strap on my left shoulder with the bag resting beside my right hip. The updates made to the 2010 version appear to be geared towards making things more accessible.

 

[jazz1]

Is this the same or very similar bag to the Freestyle XS? I've got one but I'm thinking the inner envelope for the netbook/iPad is not really padded enough for the iPad without a case on it.

The other thing I've found is I have a lot more junk to carry than this bag can hold. My issue. I guess I'm going to have to bump up to a bigger bag and put a case on the iPad if that is as thick as the padding goes.

Can't beat the quality of Timbuk2. I just have to find the right model in their line for my needs.

 

[Merlosso]

Is this the same or very similar bag to the Freestyle XS? I've got one but I'm thinking the inner envelope for the netbook/iPad is not really padded enough for the iPad without a case on it.

The other thing I've found is I have a lot more junk to carry than this bag can hold. My issue. I guess I'm going to have to bump up to a bigger bag and put a case on the iPad if that is as thick as the padding goes.

Can't beat the quality of Timbuk2. I just have to find the right model in their line for my needs.

See post #30 above. I gave a comparison between the Classic and the Freestyle.

 

[Merlosso]

Well, my Classic Messenger XS finally arrived (took 10 days from eBags) and I'm not sure if it is defective or not. The strap is sewn on at an angle on the left side (from the perspective of looking at the bag straight-on). The plastic piece at the end kind of gets in the way of the flap but the other side is sewn on straight. Is this what everyone else's looks like?

 

[gmoney80]

Well, my Classic Messenger XS finally arrived (took 10 days from eBags) and I'm not sure if it is defective or not. The strap is sewn on at an angle on the left side (from the perspective of looking at the bag straight-on). The plastic piece at the end kind of gets in the way of the flap but the other side is sewn on straight. Is this what everyone else's looks like?

both of my messengers are sewn like that when i throw mine over it feels like the angle of the strap helps with comfort. But you may want to call timbuk 2 for a real answer. Just got my small in yesterday and it fits everything like a glove

 

[BossHogg]

That's the concept - supposed to be more comfortable. Nice fit.

 

[Merlosso]

I just got an email back from Timbuk2. They confirmed what you both said; it's designed that way for comfort. It helps to keep it flat when it's on your back.

Overall I'm really happy with it. The iPad fits in the back section perfectly (I have the Apple case on it), there are plenty of pockets for the little things, and there's still room for a textbook. Also, the materials and build are all top notch.

Thanks to everyone that posted pictures and reviews; you helped me to find the perfect bag for my needs.

 

[jedolley]

I just got an email back from Timbuk2. They confirmed what you both said; it's designed that way for comfort. It helps to keep it flat when it's on your back.

Overall I'm really happy with it. The iPad fits in the back section perfectly (I have the Apple case on it), there are plenty of pockets for the little things, and there's still room for a textbook. Also, the materials and build are all top notch.

Thanks to everyone that posted pictures and reviews; you helped me to find the perfect bag for my needs.

It seems their bags are designed to be worn the way they want you to wear them (classic bicycle messenger style). I really like their bags, but I would never wear one that way. I guess that's why their straps are kind of short.