Best pack ever
I love Mountain Hardwear! I've had this bag for over a year now and no signs of wear and tear have developed. The bag looks just as new as the day i bought it. I've taken this thing hiking across the world and its held everything I need for a day long hike. buy it!

Awesome!
I just received this backpack. I specifically ordered it for school books & a lap top. It fits everything perfectly! I am a big fan of Mountain Hardwear and will continually to be. I totally recommend this to anyone for a school back pack.

All-Around Winner
Bought the Independence two weeks ago for urban office commuting and hiking and it's been great for both purposes so far. Commuting: Deep pockets for files, food (easily fits a rotisserie chicken), bottles of booze (max I could fit was a six-pack), clothes, Macbook Pro fits in laptop sleeve, easy access to organizers for phone/ipod/pens/etc., shallow pocket for immediate needs; Hiking: room for everything, makes for a solid overnight or two-day bag; slight negatives: phone holder on shoulder strap can't hold an iPhone, nor you can you fit an iphone in one of the smaller organizer slots if you have one of the bigger iPods in the big slot... but all in all, a great bag. And the Altrec shopping experience was easy.

Great bag for multi-use
I was looking for a bag that would work for day use, carrying books, files, and 15" laptop. It does all these well and should for a long time due to the durable materials and fine stitching. I like that the computer section suspends the laptop above the bottom. When the bag is set down (or dropped) it cushions the blow to the computer. The only negative I found is that the two side (water bottle) holders are cut from solid fabric instead of mesh. There is no way for bottle moisture (condensation) or spills to drain out - a tiny hassle. Finally, I avoided some of the larger bags because I needed to use the bag for flying. This bag slides nicely under the seat yet carries all I need.

Great Backpack
Especially for school. Fits excellent. Good weight! Holds my laptop which is 15inches no problem.