I wanted a more compact, simple backpack for my commute to work. Got the Retreat backpack in grey and it fits my needs so far. There's room for my lunch jar, water bottle, coffee thermos, journal and a pair of shoes. I also stack a pair of headphones on top. Laptop and ipad go inside the padded sleeve. The shoulder straps are comfortable, but the bottom of the laptop digs into my lower back because the back of the bag isn't padded like the Little America. It's okay for bus/train travel, but It wouldn't be comfortable if you have to walk for long with a full load.