It is exactly as I expected. I was not disappointed. It looks like there are only three pockets in front, but there are actually four. The hidden one has some depth to it, so thicker items such a small bottle of lotion can fit in it. If the bag is not too full, a small folded umbrella can even fit the side pouches. The size of the big pocket in frontand theres one at the back as wellcan fit documents (regular 8 1/2 by 11) folded in half. It can also fit one of those free daily New York tabloids, also folded in half. Its a great everyday bag. If this gets worn out, I would replace it with exactly the same style. So I hope this bag stays in the market for a long time.