I'm an inner-city commuter, and need an all-purpose bag that can hold all my every-day stuff plus carry occasional items from the store or stuff delivered to my work, lunches, and general whatnot that a city dweller runs into needing to carry without a car. I am replacing an old north-south laptop messenger bag that serviced me well for nearly three years. This one fit the bill after several hours of shopping and comparing. I've already transferred everything from the old bag and all of it has a spot to live just like the old bag - that was not easy to find, options seem to have slimmed down since I last shopped. I need to be able to find things easily, like my CTA card, cell phone, keys, and a couple self-defense items - with one hand and preferably without having to look. This bag is perfect. I wear my bags cross-body to be hands-free and this one is a classic design that feels light and roomy, yet not bulky. Already had a couple compliments on it, and look forward to years of use.