Whether you use a backpack for school, work, or short trips having iPod controls built into the shoulder straps will save you some hassle. Some backpacks have MP3 player pockets with headphone exit points to manage your wires better, but what about when you want to skip a certain song, or turn the volume down temporarily. You’d have to either take the headphones out of your ear, or try and reach around and unzip the pocket, take out your iPod and turn down the volume, or skip to next song.

That is just one problem solved by these iPod controlling backpacks, which seem to be loosely referred to as iPacks. This particular iPod controlling backpack from Hammacher Schlemmer also has a padded laptop pocket and pockets for your PDA, cellphone, keys, pens, and other accessories to help you stay organized as well as entertained. Here are some details straight from the product description “Your iPod simply plugs into a jack located inside, and a universal jack located on the left back strap accommodates your headphones, allowing complete control of your music player through the five-button control panel on the left strap. The panel controls volume, pause, menu selection, and stop functions.” This backpack also features a very durable construction and self-mending zippers for an extra long life. Of course there are other places to buy an iPod enhanced backpack, but you’ll want to take note of Hammacher’s lifetime guarantee. The guarantee basically means if there is anything wrong with the product for it’s standard lifetime you can just return it to them and they will replace it or give you a refund.

If you don’t like the style or colors of the iPod backpack mentioned above, then check out Think Geek for their iPod Mono-Strap Backpack. This backpack features the trendy mono-strap style (see in action) the same controls as the backpack mentioned above and with just as many pockets. The main difference between the two is the strap style and it seems the backpack available at Hammacher utilizes a more durable nylon. So depending on your everyday use and sense of style make sure you get the backpack that best suites your needs.

You can find other colors, styles, and sizes by searching other sites like Target, or eBags, both of which are recommended stores to purchase from.

COUPON: Get $10 OFF $45 Backpack Orders at eBags.com Expires Dec. 1, 2006

Posted by Sean in Clothing and Accessories, Gadgets