Timbuk2 Parkside Laptop Backpack 2.0 in 2023 (Tested and Reviewed)

Timbuk2 Parkside Laptop Backpack 2.0 in 2023 (Tested and Reviewed)

Nusrat Tanji

Last Updated on September 24, 2023 by Arif Chowdhury

If you’re looking for a laptop backpack that can handle your daily commute, travel, or school needs, you might want to check out the Timbuk2 Parkside Laptop Backpack 2.0. Timbuk2 is a San Francisco-based company that specializes in making durable, stylish, and functional bags for urban lifestyles.

In this review, I’ll go over the features, pros and cons, and my personal experience with the Timbuk2 Parkside Laptop Backpack 2.0.

Features of Timbuk2 Parkside Laptop Backpack

  • Dimensions and Weight:
    • Medium-sized backpack measuring 18.1 x 11 x 5.9 inches.
    • Weighs 1.6 pounds.
  • Capacity and Laptop Compatibility:
    • 25-liter capacity.
    • Fits laptops up to 15 inches.
  • Material and Durability:
    • Made of water-resistant polyester fabric.
    • Easy to clean and maintain.
  • Compartments:
    • Three main compartments: laptop, main, and front compartments.
  • Laptop Compartment:
    • Rear laptop compartment with cushioned sleeve for laptop protection.
    • Dedicated tablet pocket with a maximum tablet size of 10 inches.
  • Main Compartment:
    • Spacious enough for clothing, books, paperwork, and everyday items.
    • An internal mesh zipped pocket for small item organization.
  • Front Compartment:
    • Well-organized with slip pockets, zipped compartments, and elastic loops.
    • Suitable for holding items like pencils, notebooks, chargers, headphones, sunglasses, and snacks.
  • Additional Storage:
    • Top zipped compartment for easy access.
    • Two side pockets for water bottles or umbrellas.
  • Zippers:
    • Two-way zippers with metal pull for easy opening and closing.
    • Zippers can be locked for enhanced security.
  • Comfort and Ergonomics:
    • Adjustable cushioned shoulder straps.
    • Ergonomically designed for comfortable wear.
    • Sternum strap for weight distribution.
  • Top Grab Handle:
    • Strong and practical handle for hanging or carrying the backpack.
  • Design and Variety:
    • Simple, contemporary appearance.
    • Available in a range of hues and patterns to match personal preferences.
  • Visibility Enhancement:
    • Reflective elements for improved visibility in low light conditions.
  • Version Update:
    • Timbuk2 Parkside Laptop Backpack 2.0 is an updated version of the previous Parkside Laptop Backpack.
Timbuk2 Parkside Laptop Backpack 2.0

These features collectively make the Timbuk2 Parkside Laptop Backpack 2.0 a versatile and functional choice for carrying laptops, daily essentials, and more in a stylish and durable package.

Some of the changes include:

  • A more streamlined design that reduces the bulkiness and improves the aesthetics of the backpack.
  • A dedicated tablet pocket that adds more functionality and protection for your devices.
  • Improved laptop protection that features raised foam padding and secure flap closure.
  • A webbing loop that replaces the previous bottle opener on the front of the backpack.

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Pros and Cons

The Timbuk2 Parkside Laptop Backpack 2.0 has many advantages and disadvantages based on my own opinion and other customer reviews. Here are some of the pros and cons of the backpack:

ProsCons
Durable and water-resistant fabricLacks some padding and breathability on the back panel and shoulder straps
Spacious and well-organized compartmentsNo hip belt or waist strap for extra stability
Lockable and easy-to-use zippersNo external compression straps for adjusting the size
Comfortable and ergonomic shoulder strapsNo dedicated laptop access from the side
Sleek and modern designNo RFID-blocking pocket for protecting your cards

Some of the most important or unique aspects of the backpack are:

  • The front compartment of the backpack is efficiently arranged, offering ample space for your belongings. However, the back panel and shoulder straps could benefit from additional padding and better ventilation.
  • Enhancements have been made to the laptop protection system, incorporating raised foam padding and secure flap closure. Nevertheless, there isn’t dedicated side access for laptops.
  • The backpack boasts a stylish and contemporary design, available in a range of colors and patterns to match your preferences. Yet, it lacks external compression straps for size adjustment.

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Personal Experience

I have been using the Timbuk2 Parkside Laptop Backpack 2.0 for about two months now and I have to say that I am very satisfied with it. I use it mainly for commuting to work, traveling occasionally, and studying at cafes or libraries.

The bag is quite cozy and roomy enough for my needs. It easily accommodates my 15-inch laptop, tablet, headphones, camera, clothes, toiletries, and mementos. I particularly appreciate the front compartment’s organization and accessibility to my items as well as the laptop compartment’s excellent protection for my laptop.

I also like the design and the quality of the backpack. It looks stylish and professional, and it matches well with my outfits. It is also very durable and water-resistant, and it can withstand the wear and tear of daily use.

Some of the tips or suggestions I have for using the backpack effectively or efficiently are:

  • To keep your belongings orderly and organized in the main compartment, I suggest utilizing packing cubes or organizers.
  • When traveling, I advise using a luggage strap or a carabiner to secure the backpack to your bag or rolling luggage.
  • In the event of severe rain or snow, I suggest covering the backpack with a plastic bag or a rain cover.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the main features of the Timbuk2 Parkside Laptop Backpack 2.0?

The Timbuk2 Parkside Laptop Backpack 2.0 is a medium-sized backpack that can fit laptops up to 15 inches. It has three main compartments: a laptop compartment with a padded sleeve and a tablet pocket, a main compartment with a zippered mesh pocket, and a front compartment with multiple pockets and loops for organizing your gear.

It also has two side pockets, a top zippered pocket, a webbing loop, two-way zippers, padded shoulder straps, a sternum strap, a top grab handle, and a sleek and modern design.

How does the Timbuk2 Parkside Laptop Backpack 2.0 compare to the previous version?

The Timbuk2 Parkside Laptop Backpack 2.0 is an updated version of the previous Parkside Laptop Backpack. Some of the changes include a more streamlined design that reduces the bulkiness and improves the aesthetics of the backpack, a dedicated tablet pocket that adds more functionality and protection for your devices, improved laptop protection that features raised foam padding and a secure flap closure, and a webbing loop that replaces the previous bottle opener on the front of the backpack.

How do I choose the best laptop backpack for my needs?

Choosing the best laptop backpack for your needs depends on several factors, such as your laptop size, your style, your budget, your comfort preferences, and your intended use. Here are some tips to help you narrow down your options:

Laptop size: Make sure the backpack you choose can fit your laptop and its accessories, such as the charger, mouse, or keyboard. Look for backpacks that have a dedicated laptop compartment or sleeve that can protect your device from shocks and scratches. You can also check the dimensions and weight of the backpack to ensure it is compatible with your laptop model.

Personal style: Pick a backpack that matches your personality and taste. There are many styles, colors, and patterns to choose from, ranging from sleek and minimalist to colorful and quirky. You can also consider the material and quality of the backpack, such as leather, canvas, nylon, or polyester. Some materials are more durable, water-resistant, or eco-friendly than others.

Budget: Set a realistic budget for your backpack purchase and compare different options within your price range. You can find backpacks for as low as $20 or as high as $300, depending on the brand, features, and quality. You can also look for discounts, sales, or coupons to save some money.

Comfort preferences: Choose a backpack that is comfortable and ergonomic for your body type and posture. Look for backpacks that have padded or adjustable shoulder straps, a sternum strap or a hip belt for extra stability, a ventilated or cushioned back panel for breathability and support, and a top grab handle for convenience. You can also try on the backpack before buying it or read customer reviews to get a sense of how it feels.

Intended use: Think about how you plan to use your backpack and what features you need for your activities. For example, if you travel frequently, you might want a backpack that has a luggage pass-through sleeve, a lockable zipper, or a TSA-friendly laptop compartment. If you work out regularly, you might want a backpack that has a separate shoe compartment, a water bottle pocket, or a wet/dry pouch. If you need to organize a lot of items, you might want a backpack that has multiple pockets, compartments, or loops for your gear.

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How was your personal experience with using the Timbuk2 Parkside Laptop Backpack 2.0?

For approximately two months now, I have been using the Timbuk2 Parkside Laptop Backpack 2.0, and I am quite happy with it. I primarily use it for traveling occasionally, getting to and from work, and studying in coffee shops or libraries. The bag is quite cozy and roomy enough for my needs. It easily accommodates my 15-inch laptop, tablet, headphones, camera, clothes, toiletries, and mementos.

I especially like the laptop compartment that protects my laptop very well and the front compartment that keeps my items organized and accessible. I also like the design and the quality of the backpack. It looks stylish and professional, and it matches well with my outfits. It is also very durable and water-resistant, and it can withstand the wear and tear of daily use.

What are some tips or suggestions for using the Timbuk2 Parkside Laptop Backpack 2.0 effectively or efficiently?

Some of the tips or suggestions I have for using the backpack effectively or efficiently are:

  • Utilizing packing cubes or organizers can effectively maintain the orderliness of your belongings within the main compartment.
  • Consider employing a luggage strap or carabiner to fasten the backpack to your suitcase or trolley while on the go.
  • It’s wise to employ a rain cover or plastic bag to shield the backpack from intense rain or snow.

Where can I buy the Timbuk2 Parkside Laptop Backpack 2.0 and how much does it cost?

You can buy the Timbuk2 Parkside Laptop Backpack 2.0 from various online retailers, such as Amazon, Timbuk2, or Zappos. The price may vary depending on the color, size, or availability of the backpack, but it usually ranges from $69 to $99. You can also check out some customer reviews before making your purchase decision.

Conclusion

The Timbuk2 Parkside Laptop Backpack 2.0 is a great option for anyone who needs a versatile, durable, and stylish laptop backpack for everyday use. It has many features, pros and cons, and personal experiences that make it a worthy choice for your next backpack purchase.

If you’re interested in buying this backpack, you can check out the latest price and availability here. What do you think of this backpack? Let me know in the comments below.