Abstract: The present invention is a carrying bag such as a gym bag or backpack which includes at least a pocket formed on the outside of the bag or backpack which contains a nylon mesh or other expansion type retainer sewn into the interior of the pocket which is closed by closing means such as a zipper. When the pocket is opened, the expansion retainer means can be unfolded and a large object such as a basketball, football, or objects such as wet clothes can be placed in the expansion retainer. The object within the expansion retainer is securely retained by a drawstring with a locking retainer to be sure the expansion retainer is closed and thereafter a clip or D-ring connects the top of the expansion retainer to a portion of the gym bag or backpack so that it is securely retained to assure that the objects will not fall out and will hang off the side of the gym bag or backpack so as not to put a strain on the carrier's back.

Abstract: A sports bag which is defined to include any carrying bag such as a duffel bag, backpack, gym bag or other bag which is used to carry articles such as sports equipment, a thermos, sports clothing etc, which includes a mat which is conveniently stored inside the sports bag when not in use and can be removed through an opening in the sports bag to permit the mat to be extended transverse to the sports bag so that it provides a flat surface on which the user may rest or place articles. The mat can be permanently affixed to the sports bag or it can be removably affixed and attached by means of fasteners such as male and female mating hook and loop fasteners, snaps, etc. The mat can be rolled up and stored within the sports bag when not in use and unrolled and laid flat adjacent the sports bag when in use.