I have taken this backpack on several three-week trips to Europe. It is large enough to bring all I need and small enough to fit in aircraft overhead bins (although I agree with a previous reviewer in that the small pockets might need to be emptied before it fits in some bins). The pack is wonderfully rugged; I have never had fears of the zippers breaking or the fabric ripping. And being a carry-on, there are no worries of my pack being lost or damaged by the airlines. The size also makes it convenient to bring aboard trains and buses. The pockets and compartments are thoughtfully designed. I put the same stuff in the same places each time I pack for a trip, and so I know exactly where everything is and don't have to fumble about when I need to bring something out. If this backpack ever wears out, I'd buy another without hesitation; I would not consider buying anything else. It has every feature I want.
I've had mine for five years and I use it hard. I over stuff it with books and luggage, and cram it into a locker daily, and, if I washed it, it would look like new. Perhaps most importantly, the problem I have had with other backpacks is that the center divider tears off, but mine is holding strong.
This pack is great. We bought it for my step-son for his birthday to make his life easier. He has so much stuff to bring to school everyday, between his books, sports attire and his instrument that he was having to carry his normal bookbag, PLUS another bag PLUS his instrument. That is just too much for a 6th grader to haul back and forth everyday...since we got him this bag all he has to carry is the bag and his instrument. It HAS made his like so much easier. He puts his Cross Country shoes in the bottom compartment, his books in the back compartment and his clothes in the 2nd compartment. HE ABSOLUTELY LOVE HIS BAG!!
Great pack for a high schooler! Fits full day's class needs. Many pockets keep you organized. Bottom section can also carry lunchbox or jacket instead of shoes.
