Timbuk2 Travel Accessories Review and Giveaway

Full disclosure: I love Timbuk2 products. They’re fun, they’re sturdy, and they’re perfectly designed for hardcore travel. In fact, I love them so much, when CSN Stores asked me to review a travel product of my choice from any of their 200+ online stores, I immediately chose Timbuk2 (check out their huge selection!). If you think that makes me less than impartial, perhaps you’re right. But I only endorse products I can stand behind, and Timbuk2 has earned its stellar reputation in my book…so much so that I can’t wait to recommend their products to you.

I already carry a Timbuk2 messenger bag with me whenever I travel with my laptop, the kids’ video player, and all our other electronic equipment, so for the purposes of this review, I decided to try two innovative travel accessories I hadn’t seen before.

Turns out, Timbuk2 makes a clear, quart-sized carry-on accessory perfect for storing all those 3 oz. liquid containers you have to declare while making your way through airport security. And it’s TSA-approved! No more hunting down quart-sized zip-lock baggies while packing! No more dumping out containers all over the security counter so the authorities can see what you’re carrying! It fits in security check-point organizer pockets and I was pleased to see that it opens and closes with a ‘zip-lock’ sealing system. Best of all, it’s reusable (and oh-so sturdy)!

But of course, getting through security is only half the packing battle. You know how no matter how carefully you pack, you always need an extra carry-on for your return trip? (I used to think it was because I’d buy too many souvenirs, but now I think it’s just because I fold and organize less and less as I travel.) Timbuk2 makes a great stow-away travel backpack designed precisely for this phenomenon. It’s called the Hidden Backpack and folds down into its own case smaller than your fist. Toss it in your luggage and use it only when you need it! I love how easily it folds up and was surprised by how roomy it is. You even get an outside pocket! The one shown at right is in a delightful color called ‘jellyfish’. (I picked siren red, however, so as to find whatever kid is wearing it faster in the airport.) And if backpacks aren’t your style, there’s also a Hidden Tote.

Just unzip and expand into a usable backpack!

(Be sure to check out all the other great Timbuk2 travel gear at CSN Stores! They have everything from travel wallets to personal electronics cases to passport sleeves!)

Want to try a Timbuk2 travel product for yourself? Pit Stops for Kids is giving away two quart-sized carry-on accessories!

For a chance to win one, just comment below! Double entries for subscribing to our feed, Facebook page, or Twitter. (Just comment again letting me know you’ve done so.) Good luck!

(Giveaway open for one week. Closes 10/20/10.) Giveaway  now closed. Congratulations to Bev and Lisa, winners by random number generator!

As I disclose with all compensated reviews, I received the above Timbuk2 products courtesy of CSN Stores at no cost. This compensation came with no expectations of a favorable review.