I took this backpack to Europe for 3 months and then couch surfed the US for 8 months with it. It is the perfect backpack for both applications. Ever since I got this bag with its zip off backpack and suitcase style opening, I would never go back. Forget duffel bags with everything at the bottom. You can open this up all the way with it's fat zippers and maintain a nice, organized backpack. Absolutely a must for on the go work. The bag itself is very sturdy and you can fling it around by any strap you want. Speaking of straps, it has a lot of really good points of contact and it makes for an easy hike when you have this on, especially with the amazingly comfortable hip straps.