I bought this for a six week trip I was taking to Europe last year because I didn't want to check a bag and didn't want a regular backpack that opens at the top. This was THE best purchase I made for the entire trip!

The 40L bag was sturdy, the perfect carry on size, and yes I'm one of those freaks that packed SIX WEEKS (and 17lbs) worth of stuff in it to travel. Obviously the secret is mixing and matching clothing, doing laundry once a week, and not taking stuff you really don't need. I did not feel like I had to do without anything the whole time though.

This bag was easy to transport, and do to the side zippers it opens like a suitcase so you can easily get to all your stuff without having to wade through everything. There are several outside compartments that hold a ton of stuff as well, and straps that you can tighten to make the bag smaller and more compact.

I flew on several airlines and it was accepted each time without any issues. Wheeled bags are great and easier on your back sure but several countries in Europe still have cobblestone streets and walkways that make those wheels more hassle than help. Tossing this on my back meant I could just go no matter the terrain.

As for wear and tear, as I said it did six weeks in Europe, plus almost a month in New England as my suitcase, and now it's going to France for two weeks. There is only a dime sized spot of fraying at one corner at this point. That's it. Handles and zippers look like new!

This is not like a traditional backpack. The main compartment opens from around the sides like a suitcase. The main compartment had a buckling strap on the bottom to hold down clothing (like in a traditional suitcase) and the "lid" side had a couple more zippered compartments for organization. The bag felt durable and well made. Maybe even a little heavy. Overall I liked this bag but didn't actually travel with it (that's the only reason I gave 4 stars). I had ordered a few bags to test out for my upcoming trip. Ultimately, I decided to return this one, choosing to keep another that suited my needs better. But I would considered re-ordering this one in the future if I'm looking for another carry-on size backpack style suitcase in the future.

If you are on a budget, this would be a great backpack to consider.

I took it on a 16 day European trip-- I was able to pack my clothes to deal the summer and fall climates and did laundry only once. Straps are well padded and I was able to use it as a carry-on all the airlines with no issues. For Ryanair airlines, I just purchased the Priority option because it averaged only $12 per flight.

The compartments are spacious and I was able to carry a lot. Keep in mind though, if you pack it to its max (which I did) it can become very bulky and heavy. The external pockets are great for your smaller items for quick access. And the handles on the side and top of the bag makes it very convenient. Experienced no quality issues with this bag-- every held up perfectly with no rips or failed zippers even with the bag being filled to the brim. Not to mention the great minimalist design-- the black one doesn't shout their logo nor does look it flashy.

My complaints about this bag:
1. it does not come with a hip belt. When you fill this bag to it's max capacity, it can put a lot of strain on your shoulders if its on your back for over 20 minutes. I find myself having to put it down and rest for a bit before continuing to walk further. But if you are really walking too much (ex. taking transport directly to your destination), it wouldn't be an issue. But for the price point of this bag, I do not expect a quality hip belt to distribute weight.

2. The laptop compartment is in the front and not in the back. A laptop can get heavy and it would be a better weight balance for it to be on the back. If you will not be bringing a laptop, then this wouldn't really matter.

3. The black color picks up dust and blemishes easier.

Overall this is a solid bag for a great price compared to similar bags on Amazon-- can't really beat the price. Just don't pack it to the max capacity if you expect to carry it for over 20 minutes. I highly recommend it for all the budget conscience shoppers.

Great packs! Our family of four (6'3" Dad and two large teens - 5-4" Mom) brought only what you see in the third photo- we wanted to cruise through airports. And we did! For four weeks.

We used packing cubes and washers and dryers where we could. It was summer so we didn't need any bulky items.

All zippers held up and there was plenty of room to hang stuff off the back and sides.

They served us well. I do wish there was a waist strap- but we will use these again and are extremely happy with our purchase! SUCH a great value.

This is the perfect short trip bag when you need to carry a 17" laptop. It fits in overhead or under seat. Plenty of room for clothes.