We humans have an innate need to carry stuff around. From nomadic peoples to itinerants, we have all found ourselves in the position where we must carry goods around with us. This tends to be even truer for the traveler. Given this necessity, schlepping things from point A to point B can now be done in style. The America-based company, Timbuk2 has a whole host of nicely crafted bags that make transporting items a more-enjoyable experience. I was granted the opportunity to review Timbuk2’s Wingman model. This stylish bag has a plethora of positive attributes and functions including being able to convert into a messenger bag, a rucksack, or a suitcase.
Messenger Bag
In many metropolitan areas, there is a near ubiquity of people carrying around messenger bags as their primary mode of daily hefting. Since the Wingman converts into three different kinds of bags, I was concerned that the Wingman might be just “masquerading” as a messenger bag. However, in reality, the Wingman makes a terrific messenger bag. Most notably, it features a nifty shoulder strap that makes carrying anything from books to plans for world domination a breeze.
Rucksack
The Wingman also converts into a comfortable backpack. The backpack straps are easily accessible and have a compartment to house them when they are not in use.
Another handy feature of the Wingman is the plethora of pockets. I am a big-time pocket fan, and I feel you can never have too many. As a rucksack, the Wingman could be very useful in a long-hike scenario—especially if you had some gear to carry with you.
Suitcase
One awesome aspect of the Wingman is its size. Even filled to the gills, the Wingman is the standard carry-on size which makes it a smart choice for a travel bag. There are two suitcase handles—one on the horizontal side in the middle, and one top when the bag is positioned vertically. Since the Wingman isn’t overtly a travel bag, I found the Wingman to be inconspicuous as a suitcase while waiting around for hotel check in. When I took the Wingman to Amsterdam, I felt the bag didn’t call attention to the fact that I was a loitering tourist.
The good:
- Can be a messenger bag, backpack, or a travel bag
- Many pockets
- Stylish
- Comfortable
- Carry-on size for airplane travel
- Made in America
The bad:
- None for this review—a great multipurpose bag!
The Timbuk2 Wingman is available at Amazon.
All photos by Anthony Frohlich