Timbuk2 Vs. Chrome (Backpacks For Everyday Life And Travel)

Timbuk2 Vs. Chrome: Travel Backpacks

We’re going to kick off this review with some of my favorites – travel backpacks. And to be clear, we are going to be taking a look at backpacks that are suitable for some shorter trips, or to be used as carry-ons.

In this review, we will not check out any large backpacks that you could use for trips that are several weeks long. If that’s what you were hoping to find, I advise you to check out a few Osprey backpacks for travel instead.

Note: Chrome focuses more on your everyday backpacks, and I was able to find only one bag that is really suitable for travel in their range. So, you will see a few more options from Timbuk2 in this section.

Chrome Macheto Travel Pack

This backpack has a very sleek design that successfully hides how versatile it actually is. What really helps with the versatility is the fact that you can hide its shoulder straps, so that easily transforms from a huge travel backpack to one that you can carry to your office every day.

However, the clamshell opening of the pack might be a little awkward for carrying around your files and pens. But the separate laptop and electronics pocket isn’t, and if your laptop isn’t larger than 15”, then you can most certainly get the most out of it.

The Macheto pack is made of 1680d ballistic nylon, which a very sturdy and durable material. And it means that you don’t have to be gentle with this bag, because it was made to endure all kinds of torture – including the treatment of airport baggage handlers.

There are two zippered dividers in the main compartment that will keep all your clothes in one place. And there is a pocket on one of the dividers for some smaller items that you don’t want to get lost in between all your shirts and pants. Apart from that, there is an electronic compartment that I mentioned, as well as two separate quick-access pockets on the front. 

Overall, the Macheto pack is definitely worth a second look. The only thing about it that it might be off-putting is its somewhat high price tag. But if you can afford it, I would highly recommend it to you.

Timbuk2 Wander Pack

Timbuk2 Wander Pack is the pack that puts wander in wanderlust. The pack that you can wander away with anywhere and have everything you need for a while. And the pack that will make you wonder why you didn’t buy it earlier.

But seriously, it’s a great bag for short trips because it has a capacity of 40 liters. It opens up duffel-bag style and has a single packing compartment for your clothes. But it also has a separate bottom compartment, which is great for storing any bulkier items, such as your shoes.

There is also a separate top pocket, for all items that you want to have handy – a passport, a wallet, and maybe a phone. And there is a padded compartment that will fit laptops of all sizes, even 17” ones. Additionally, there’s also a slim pocket on the very front of the pack that you can store some other stuff in.

The multiple compression straps will keep all of those things in place, and make sure that the Wander doesn’t burst open even when it’s fully packed. In addition to that, the padded shoulder straps should keep you comfortable throughout your adventures, as well as safe from any soreness or pain.

However, it lacks a sternum strap, which would certainly be useful, since it is a pack of large capacity. But it does have several different carry straps so that you can carry it like it’s a suitcase or a duffel bag. And the ventilated back panel will keep you cool and dry if you do decide to wander away somewhere in the middle of July.

Timbuk2 Blitz Backpack

The Blitz is smaller than Timbuk2’s Wander, so it’s perfect for you if you thought that you don’t need a 40L capacity bag. In fact, you’ll love the 28-liter capacity of this backpack then. And just like the previous bag, it has a padded laptop compartment that will fit even 17” laptops.

As for the main compartment, it also opens up duffel bag style. But there isn’t a divider inside; instead there are compression straps in the main compartment, similar to those you see in a suitcase. And there is a mesh pocket on the closure flap that is perfect for storing all of your smaller items.

Just like the Wander backpack, the Blitz also has a separate compartment for your shoes or wet items. It also has several external compression straps that will make sure everything stays in place, as well as a ventilated back panel that guarantees to keep you cool and dry no matter how hot it gets outside.

But unlike the Wander, the Blitz is equipped with a removable sternum strap. It will help keep the shoulder straps in place, and ensure that one of them won’t slip off.

Overall, if you are looking for a backpack that you can take with you for a weekend away, then this is a great choice. And if you really pack light, you could also use it for some longer trips. And I haven’t even told you the best part – its price is under $120! On Amazon, naturally.

Timbuk2 Authority Pack

This is another versatile pack from Timbuk2. It’s a great everyday backpack, but at the same time, it has plenty of features that also make it an awesome travel backpack. So, if you are looking to kill two birds with one stone, this just might be the pack for you.

For one thing, the two separate compartments of the backpack is what makes it a great everyday backpack. You then get a large compartment with a laptop sleeve that can store a lot of your clothes, with its overall 28-liter capacity. And there’s also a large pocket on the front part of the backpack, with lots of organization pockets for any smaller travel necessities.

This backpack also has padded shoulder straps and backpanel that will ensure your carrying comfort. And there’s also a sternum strap so that you never have to worry about one of those shoulder straps budging an inch.

Overall, I think the best feature of the Authority is its versatility. Yes, it’s great for travel, but you can also use it for the daily commute since it’s not really that big. If you want to know more about it, you can check out the detailed review I did earlier.

Timbuk2 Vs. Chrome: Backpacks For Everyday Use

It’s time to check out some backpacks that can perfectly fit into your everyday life. And to note something; since we focused more on Timbuk2 backpacks in the previous section of the review, we are going to focus more on the Chrome ones in this section.

And since I already did a detailed review of the Timbuk2 Authority Pack, there’s no need to go into too much detail about it again, and that is one of my favorite Timbuk2 backpacks for everyday use.

Timbuk2 Lug Knapsack

If you don’t want to blend in with the crowd then I think this is the pack for you. It has a unique, somewhat vintage design, but its features are very modern.

To begin with, it has a padded laptop sleeve that is essential to a good day-to-day backpack. But there is a catch; you will be able to utilize this sleeve only if your laptop is not larger than 13”.  Otherwise, you could use the sleeve to store your tablet or phone, or any other smaller electronics.

The overall capacity of the pack is 14 liters, which is more than enough for your daily adventures. The main compartment of the pack is pretty spacious, and it features several neoprene pockets inside, that will help you organize your things.

On top of that, there are also two pockets on the sides of the backpack, for any items you would want to access more easily. But I honestly wouldn’t advise you to keep your phone or wallet inside these, as everyone else can also access these quite easily.

But the main compartment will stay safely closed, since the front flap also features a snap closure, in addition to the internal drawstring closure. Your stuff will be safe, and you will stay comfortable when this pack is on your shoulders, with the padded air mesh shoulder straps.

Chrome MXD Fathom Backpack

If you commute ultra-light, then I’ve found the perfect pack for you. The Fathom pack is exactly what it sounds like – the phantom you won’t even feel on your back.

But that ultra light weight comes hand in hand with small 13 liter capacity. And funnily enough, a 13” laptop is the largest electronic device that you will be able to fit in this backpack. So, you can definitely notice that it isn’t a bag for everyone.

But, who is this bag for then? I would say that it would be a perfect fit for someone who is looking for a small, light backpack for everyday commute, or to use as a carry-on. It can definitely fit all the in-cabin essentials, and then some. And even though it might sound like it, I’m not talking only about airplanes.

Don’t you hate it when you get on a bus after a long day, and someone keeps bumping their humongous backpack into you? Or when their backpack takes up the entire seat next to them; what could they possibly be carrying around that they need a backpack the size of a child?

With the Fathom, no one will ever think that about you. Because what more do you need, apart from your phone, laptop, a few chargers, passport, wallet and a good book? And it can fit all of that inside its main compartment, as well as the two large pockets on its front. And it will barely take up any space next to you.

Chrome Volcan Backpack

If you generally like top-loading bags, then you are probably going to fall in love with the Volcan backpack. It is designed just like a normal backpack, but it loads from the top, giving you the ability to really load this baby up.

One of the main selling points of this backpack is its bombproof durable tarp exterior. It will keep everything dry, and last you a lifetime if you treat it well (or perhaps even if you don’t).

Chrome has also given you lots of smart packing options. Sure, there is loads of space in the main compartment, but the front laptop sleeve for 15″ laptops is super easy to access once the pack is open. There is also a smartly placed mesh pocket on the inside of the flap, easy to access front pocket for your smaller items, and the usual side water bottle pockets.

They have also placed a hidden pocket on the back in case you are worried about thieves, a popular design choice these days.

My only beef with a lot of packs these days is that although they have nice shoulder straps and maybe even a sternum strap, they lack hip straps. And if you load up the pack then all the weight goes on your shoulders. Not ideal!

Chrome Hondo Backpack

If comfort is your one and only concern, then I think this backpack is the one for you. That’s not to say that the rest of the backpacks are uncomfortable; just the opposite. But with the Hondo pack, Chrome has really taken it up a notch, with the ergonomic design of the EVA foam padded back panel.

The shoulder straps are also padded, and they can be adjusted to fit basically anyone. And the sternum strap is there to make sure that the pack stays in place while it’s on your back. You also don’t have to worry about sweating with the Hondo, since the back panel is ventilated and breathable.

As for the organization, there are plenty of pockets on the backpack, both on its exterior and inside it. And there is also a padded laptop sleeve that will fit all laptops up to 15”. To further protect your electronics, Chrome also included a padded bottom into the design of this backpack.

The main compartment has a zippered closure, as well as a 21-liter capacity. And it has a wide opening ziptop so that you can have easier access to everything inside it. Gone will be the days when you have to squeeze your arm inside it and blindly feel for the item you need. If you get the Hondo backpack, that is.