I used this bag for two years and sold it recently--it reasonably held it's value. I just wanted to list a few things that I found lacking, though these would not apply to everyone.

Pros: organization, similarity to suitcase, durability.

I love that this bag opens like a suitcase, I love those zipper pockets on the front and top. It also stands upright, even fully loaded. The extension zipper is fantastic. I used it for a three month trip and four two week trips, as well as multiple weekend trips. It held everything I needed and really only had a small scratch in the fabric, no other defects from wear and tear. I was not being careful at all, so it really is quite sturdy.

Cons: It's terrible to carry for any distance. I had to walk a mile to and from trains and buses regularly and I was aching in my shoulders. While this packs down quite small, the amount of weight is poorly distributed, and way too heavy for that cheesy little sad hip strap.

Caveat: If you are primarily taking some sort of transfer and not walking more than a little bit, this would be okay. But a roller style would be simpler to manage for that sort of traveling. This backpack is not designed for any sort of distance.