Abstract: The invention provides a carrying bag that may be used for hands-free support of portable devices while standing upright. The carrying bag is convertible between the carrying bag configuration and an in-use configuration. The receptacle has two opposing sides, one of which may be attached to two shoulder straps, which are worn on the user so that the receptacle is carried on the front of the user's body when the portable work station is in use. Embodiments of the invention include portable work stations capable of being mounted on a user as a backpack and deployed into a workstation to support a computer or other tools which can be used by the user comfortably, securely, and stably while the user is sitting, standing, or even mobile, for example, walking. A portable work station is exposed when a carrying bag or backpack is opened from the closed carrying position.