In the Ideal Gifts series, The Next Web team shares personal recommendations for gifts to give this holiday season.
I’m not a fan of giving technology as presents. At this point everyone has a smartphone, or computer, or a streaming media device that gives them access to everything from Orange is the New Black to the so creepy you can’t look away Too Many Cooks video. We already have it all and we never have to leave home!
That’s the problem. I want my friends and family to get out of the house and explore. Of course most of us can’t afford to send our loved ones on a trip. Plus you’re probably not the best judge of where a person wants to go on vacation or when that’s even possible. With work schedules and personal preferences, it’s not a smart idea to surprise anyone with what you think is a good trip.
Instead, give them something that makes travel a bit easier. The Timbuk2 Command backpack doesn’t just fit in the overhead compartment and under the seat in front of you, it’s also nerd friendly. Thanks to a flip out computer pocket that’s TSA compliant, you don’t have to shove your entire digital life into one of those blue TSA bins and hope you’re able find your computer on the other side of the pat down.
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It also has a padded front pocket for your tablet or smartphone and a floating pocket for your sunglasses so breakables say safe in the wild and wooly world of boarding and unboarding.
It can be used in conjunction with a carry-on suitcase or a checked bag. Or, if the person is adept at light packing, they can do a weekend jaunt with only the backpack in tow. Plus, it’s a cool bag for your regular around town travels.
The Timbuk2 Command is available in six colors. I usually pick red or any other bright color because it stands out in the sea of black backpacks. The bags are usually $129, but today I noticed that they are on sale for $94. Use the cash you saved to buy a few travel books and throw them in the bag.
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