Simply fantastic, and a great value. I researched carry on suitcase-sized backpacks, the maximum size allowed, and this was highly recommended as a lower-priced option. Since we have never travelled with exclusively carry ons, I did not want to spend a lot in case it didn't work out. It did, and this backpack is perfect, I will not be "upgrading" to a more expensive brand as I see no need to. It has many pockets to organize items like headphones, passports, tablets, etc, but not too many so that it gets confusing. The compression straps on the side help make items more evenly distributed for weight. The straps are comfortable. For a week beach vacation, I had plenty of room to bring back souvenirs, and even on the return it wasn't full. I also have two kids so I did carry some of their items as well as mine, and ALL of our toiletries, a family of four.