Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

This bag is more than a backpack; it is almost the size of a wheeled carry-on. Actually, this is essentially a carry-on that you strap to your back instead of rolling it on wheels. See pic for comparison. My friend's bag is on the left, this bag is on the right, and it's about 2" shorter than my friend's bag. I like the bag, but I was looking for something to replace the North Face backpack that I had been traveling with so it's bigger than I thought it would be. I am 5'8" and 180lb, athletically built. Depending on how you are built, the hooks at the bottom strap may rub against your butt uncomfortably, or it may touch the bottom of the back of your neck (see my pic). When the bag is full, it does get heavy. The straps are wide and well padded, and the bag seems well made. I like the expandable zipper on the main compartment. It has several useful pockets, including a laptop pocket that puts the laptop flat against your back. That may or may not be comfortable for you; I didn't use this feature. There is an additional pocket where the backpack straps can be hidden when not in use; that can be used for additional storage. There is a small hook that you can use to attach keys or anything that has a really tiny hook/clip. The main interior compartment will hold 1 medium sized and 1 small packing cube with a little extra room; I was able to use 2 cubes and still have room for a pair of flats, a jacket, and a couple of additional small items. The zippers on the main compartment opens 3/4 of the way around, like a regular suitcase. For added security, there are adjustable closures that help ensure your bag doesn't accidentally unzip and flop open, spilling the contents. Overall it's a great bag! But just know that it's not a typical "backpack". It's great for road trips but you may want a different bag if you have to tote your luggage on your back for an extended period of time (say if you land at 11 but can't check in until 2 and you have to wander around the city and pass the time -- which frequently happens to me).