I enjoyed Liz A's post on such bags because I have been thinking about getting a new tote or similar bag - I have different " occasions/ roles that can allow for a " tote capsule" but current interest is for travel, to be the " under the seat" bag in addition to the carryon suitcase, and great if can work as my " car bag" for car trips , and wondering if could be the " city bag" when I'm traveling and have time to get out & about but may want a largish bag in which to stuff sweater or rain jacket, papers, small purchases, snacks etc.
ive debated pockets, more vs less, but know I woukd like to start keeping the bag organized so I remember what's where without re- inventing each time. So m, scarf pocket, snacks pocket, maps etc might be helpful. I also still take real papers and reading materials in addition to e- reader, so need a bag that has a way to handle a folder or gusset, magazines neatly.

Not really looking that hard yet but I just happened across a Kipling laptop tote in TJMaxx , similar to the Find but in a very appealing pewter metallic fabric- a nice sheen but not screamin' shiny. I confess I'm quite taken with the material!
Now, I don't typically carry a laptop at present, so again, had not targeted " laptop tote", but the laptop compartment is not very thick/ heavy, so to me it could function, with its sleeve and Velcro strap, as a book/ folder area. And I may be taking a small notebook/ tablet computer on some trips.
The outside long pocket is big enough for magazine or folder also.
This bag would be bigger than I need for some times, and it's " taller" than wide- not something I had looked for but may actually work for me because I find typical large rectangular totes overwhelming, as they stick so far out and bang into people, but the kinda longer aspect works with my long- waist and it's lightweight. I could see it working well in the airport / plane and still using it as my city- tourist tote. I have several types of small shoulder strap bags( like cross -body but not so long) I can chose from to pack for specific events.
I also want to use it for out of town professional conferences. Again, it's bigger and it's not a " status" bag, but I don't need to worry about that. I also think at such conferences you see more practical bags since many folks are in travel mode. At such conferences one might get some time to go walkabout and want to just head out, but be prepared by having extra outerwear, drink bottles , etc

Any experience with this brand? I'm pretty sure I'm keeping even if I end up learning more about what I REALLY need from the experience! But would love to hear comments.