When I first started birding, I carried a small backpack and a small camera. That changed once I began bringing a larger camera and lens supported by a crossbody BlackRapid strap.

The camera strap needed to sit on top of my backpack straps, so getting anything from the backpack meant removing my camera first. Even reaching for a drink of water became a process.

I started looking for a shoulder bag, sling, or fanny pack that I could access without removing my camera. The fanny pack I tried felt awkward and did not hold much, while a sling did not seem like it would work comfortably alongside my camera strap. After a few unsuccessful attempts, I stopped looking for a while.

Then several Timbuk2 bags went on sale. I already owned a larger Classic Messenger that was at least six years old and had served as a reliable commute bag, so I took a closer look at the Lightweight Flight Messenger. Its lighter fabric and familiar messenger-bag design seemed well suited to what I needed in the field.

Choosing the Right Size

I initially ordered the extra-small version, thinking it would be easier to manage alongside a heavy camera. It was truly small, so I exchanged it for the next size up.

The small has enough room for what I carry on short birding walks and longer days in the field without feeling like another bulky piece of equipment hanging from my shoulder.

Design and Materials

I chose Granite/Flame, a slightly blue-gray color with bright red trim. The lightweight fabric is softer than the material on my Classic Messenger, but it still feels tough and durable.

The main flap closes with hook-and-loop material and two clips. I rarely use the clips, but opening the flap is ridiculously loud when I am near a bird or other wildlife. I added two small strips of hook-and-loop material to reduce how much of the closure sticks together. It was a simple adjustment that made the bag much quieter to open in the field.

Carrying the Bag

The padded shoulder strap is comfortable and has a quick-adjustment buckle that lets me change its length with one hand. The bag also includes a removable stabilizer strap that can keep it from shifting during activities such as riding a bike.

A small internal strap connects the front and back of the bag to help secure its contents. I rarely use it while birding because I prefer quick access, but it can be useful when carrying the bag in other situations.

Pockets and Organization

The bag has plenty of organization without feeling overly complicated. Two zippered pockets beneath the flap hold keys, a wallet, and other small valuables. Inside are narrow slots for pens, wider pockets for a snack bar or small notebook, and another large zippered compartment.

Stretchy pockets at each end of the main compartment help keep a small water bottle upright and prevent loose items from disappearing into the bottom. The interior also has a waterproof bright red liner, which makes small black camera accessories much easier to spot.

Laptop and Tablet Storage

A lightly padded sleeve along the back can hold papers, a tablet, or a laptop. A 13-inch MacBook Pro and an iPad fit comfortably. A 15-inch MacBook Pro also fits, although it is a little snug.

The photos below show all three devices inside the bag:

15" MacBook Pro
13" MacBook Pro
iPad 6th Gen

Using the Timbuk2 Flight Messenger for Birding

The Timbuk2 Flight Messenger has become a regular part of my birding walks. It keeps binoculars, water, snacks, camera accessories, and other essentials organized and within reach. Most importantly, I can get to everything without removing my larger camera.

It works equally well for a full day of birding or a walk around a local park. It also served as my personal item on an international flight, holding everything I wanted at my seat during a long-haul journey without taking up much room underneath it.

Timbuk2 Flight Messenger Bag: A Birding Field Bag