What is this thing that came with my backpack?

STRATFORD, NJ, USA

I just bought a great new HP backpack for my weekly business jaunts to DC.

But, for the life of me, I just can’t figure out what that external pouch is for.

It’s too small for an umbrella, and too big for sunglasses. One side of it is a loose mesh, which doesn’t really make sense for pencils. I figured the mesh must be there for a reason, like to let moisture out. But it’s way too small for a toiletry bag.  I suppose it could be for power cables, but that seems awfully impractical.  So, I’m all out of guesses.

Any ideas?

By the way, if you’re in the market for a laptop bag that also doubles as an overnight bag, I give this two BIG thumbs up. For my trips to DC, a shoulder bag is impractical considering how far I have to walk. But I’ve also found that most backpacks designed for laptops don’t give you enough room and/or organization to be a practical way to carry clothes and your computer. I made do with a traditional backpack for a while, but this makes things so much easier by keeping everything organized and compartmentalized. This bag gives me everything a I need: A padded compartment for my computer, room outside the pocket for file folders and power cables, a larger main compartment that easily fits my toiletry bag and a change of clothes, and some smaller compartments in the front for various items (business cards, pens, mp3 player, etc.). My only complaints are the HP logo on the outside (I don’t really like the fact that my backpack advertises the fact that I’m carrying expensive electronics), and the fact that they could have added a few extra straps to hang things off of. Still, I’d give this back a 95 out of 100. I’d be happy with it at $75, but you can find it online on sale for around $30!

And, yes, it also fits that mystery pouch. If you have any guesses as to what it is supposed to be for, please leave a comment.


4 Responses

  1. Maybe its for eating utensils if your camping/backpacking????

  2. Hmmm…that’s a really good guess!
    I wouldn’t be at all surprised if you’re right.

    Any other guesses?

  3. I know you think the power cord thing is impractical, but I think it’s for that. It’s a computer bag, and that’s the best way to keep messy cables organized. Also, according to the HP website, they suggest you use it for power adapter, a mouse, or an extra battery.

  4. Hmmm…the more I think about it, you’re probably right, Nikki. :)

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