I wanted something lightweight to carry around instead of a backpack or briefcase. This fits the bill in that I can fit pens and other things in the outer zipper pocket and I can fit my kindle, a small notebook, and a magazine in the main compartment. I have seen something similar that is a little bigger, that can fit a magazine without having to fold it. That's my only complaint with this bag. You have to fold magazines or 8.5x11 sheets of paper.