Vancouverscape, a Vancouver based blog covering travel, tech, and lifestyle

As an ex-San Franciscan, I’ve always been fascinated by Timbuk2’s colourful line of custom-made messenger bags. I spent eight years living in Noe Valley, adjacent to the Mission District, where owner/bike messenger Rob Honeycutt created those messenger bags in his garage.

Over the years, Timbuk2’s line has expanded to include suitcases, roller bags, duffel bags, laptop and travel backpacks, slings, tote bags, bike panniers, etc.

Timbuk2’s Spark Mini Pack is a functional backpack done right: It’s small, easy to carry by its handles or straps, and stores all your essentials for daily use.

I like that it’s not as wide as a traditional compact backpack, and it packs nicely into a carry-on or suitcase to take on your travels.

Opening the small zippered compartment reveals a mesh inner slip pocket on one side and a faux fur-lined section in front, ideal for a smart phone or sunglasses.

On top is the main compartment, with a matching inner sleeve that will accommodate a small tablet (7.5” wide, 9” tall) or book. A strip of webbing on top works as a pen holder too.

The back area (where the handles and adjustable, removable straps are housed) includes an additional sleeve that I’ve been stowing a compact shopping bag in. It’s a deep enough space for a passport or ID card as well, since it’s the closest section to your back where prying hands can’t easily reach.

Everything fits in the Spark Mini — My water bottle, wallet, keys (key fob in small zippered section), phone, glasses, and a snack! When I take my Jansport Driver 8 wheeled backpack on travels, I simply pop the Spark into its main compartment. Once I arrive, I just pull it out and I’m ready to go without having to swap out items from one bag to the next. Super handy!

Made of 100% recycled nylon and polyester from pre- and post-consumer materials, this sweet little pack weighs in at just 400g (0.88 lb.) with an 11-litre volume.

I love the sturdy coloured zippers and zipper pulls of the Eco Nautical Pop colour-way that are easy to spot in low-light conditions (e.g. during a flight). For a more subdued style, go for Eco Black. A third variation is Eco Gunmetal Pop.

[Spark Mini in Eco Gunmetal Pop]

It’s comfortable to wear and can withstand a bit of wet weather too. CAD $89/USD $69

Visit Timbuk2 online for details and to order. Their products include a lifetime warranty and free shipping within the US.

Non-watermarked images courtesy of Timbuk2.