i have a deluxe backpack that i have had about 6 years, now a freshman in college, it has held up perfectly other than the zipper on the outside most pocket, but it will still work just slower.
I bought this rolling pack because of all the books i have. The handle is not stiff and will wiggle from side to side, not really huge, but still an issue. The really big thing is the handle protrudes into the backpack area were you can not put as many books as in a normal backpack.
I purchased this for my 7th grade son who attends an honor school so his coursework is heavy. In turn, so are his textbooks. Being the male he is... he brings ALL books home daily because he was always forgetting things in his locker. He started using the bookbag in September and it is now April. There are 2 more months left in our school system and it appears we will make it. All straps, zippers and handles are still in tact. I may purchase again for the new school year and let this one be the official travel game system keeper.
I am a student & my back was killing me from carrying a heavy bag over one shoulder. The rolling pack saved me. The reason I gave it 4 stars and not 5 is because it needs more pockets and a place for my water bottle to keep it from tipping over inside. Otherwise it's perfect.
We bought this pack for my daughter when she was in the 5th grade. 4 years later after dragging it to school every day and on Girl Scout camping trips, overnights to relatives and as a carry-on when flying, we are having to FINALLY buy her a new one. Considering the price divided by 4 years and all of the beating it has taken it was a fabulous value and we are purchasing another with hopes that she can use it until college since she less rough with it as she gets older! :)
