Thursday, November 30, 2023
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PREVIEW: Watson Backpack

This US$219 backpack for ‘knowledge workers’ and business travellers is doing sterling work on Kickstarter thanks to push-to-open access buttons, compartments tailored for laptops, and quick-draw pockets


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Spinner and rolling luggage might be preferred way for older business travellers, but for younger road warriors, it has to be a backpack. Trouble is, most are a bit too outsdoors-y. Cue the Watson Backpack, which is currently way above its funding goal on Kickstarter and designed specifically for business travellers.

‘Top performers’

Its makers claim it’s designed for ‘top performers’ and early adopters, though its feature list will suit anyone after something a bit more functional than a hiking bag with a laptop compartment. The first notable feature is the replacement of zips by push-to-open access buttons, while its quick-draw pockets that let you access your keys, wallet, or phone without taking the bag off also look interesting.

Other features

Watson Backpack also includes lockable access buttons, plush-lined device pockets to protect laptops and tablets from scratches, a vinyl bottom, hardshell interior frame that protects the bag’s contents and allows it to stand upright, and fleece-lined valuables compartment for storing sunglasses, earbuds, USB drives, and other valuables.

On-the-go charging

Watson also includes an integrated cable system that lets the user connect an external battery inside the main compartment to an easily accessible back pocket. There’s also mesh ventilation that creates space between the wearer’s back and the backpack, and this all meets all airline carry-on size requirements.

Price as previewed: US£219 (until 21 January, 2017)

Pre-order a Watson Backpack

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