I used this first for an international trip. I was able to use it as carry-on piece, but coming back I had to check it.  my point it may or may not meet all carry on requirements.  Otherwise, I love it - it holds a lot - and the outside pockets are great, particularly when I was able to carry it on board. This trip was the first and it held up very as a 'checked piece'; absolutely no damage.  Since then I've used it frequently for overnight trips.