This is my second time around buying this bag.  My other one lasted three years and I could still use it just fine, but the area around the neck finally started fading.  This little bag cannot be beat for an all around simple bag.  I like that it has a zipper compartment on the front that I actually wear so it faces my back for safety purposes.  I also like that you have to open the top with two hands...not an easy bag to pick pocket.  I like to personalize my bags with patches and pins and since this is a sturdy cotton canvas, it is easy to do that.  I can carry all manner of things in it: books, small sized tablets, my down coat, jackets, sweaters, water bottles, snacks, small purchases from the store...it's a great size for lots of things.  And it is washable!  Yay!  I really like that.