There are 3 outside compartments that are easily accessible. The one on the flap, and the two small ones on the side/front (and the pocket in back). Those small pockets towards the side aren't good for good but the side pockets are great for small items like small phone (like an iPhone), iems, etc. The front pocket good is good for other things (it holds more than it looks like it will hold in the pictures). That said, if you wanted to get something bigger out, you would have to pick up the flap. It fits under the seat fine (of course, I'm only 5'2" so you can't really trust me about leg room).