I can carry my 15 in.  Mac Book Pro in the middle pocket, a notebook filled with paper, my tablet and a few accessories.  No real spot to put anything like a small external drive or a cell phone without it being jostled around.  No padding, but the bag is pretty rugged.  If you are looking for something to grab and go this seems to be okay.  The strap could be thicker and there is no top handle.  Getting a larger gear bag for camera and laptop, but this would be great for minor commutes or hiking, as long as it wasn't weighed down too much.