I was about to travel overseas to Amsterdam which is known for steep steps and cobblestone streets. I only wanted to bring one bag, and liked the Rick Steves idea of going with only one carryon (although I cheated and also brought a messenger bag just in case).

I love this suitcase for many reasons.

PROS:

- It's exactly carry-on size for most airlines, but only if it's lightly packed. Thus, I put a lot of stuff for the trip to Europe in my messenger bag so that the suitcase would stay 9" deep.
- If you end up buying lots of souvenirs like I did on your trip, the bag actually expands in depth from 9" to 14". Of course, you'll probably have to check your bag in on the way back, but there will probably be no checked bag fee (for international travel, that is).
- The suitcase straps are convenient if you need them. I personally never did, but I can see a situation where I don't really want to drag the bag.
-It has a duffel-like strap over the top (when it's lying flat). You can't really use it for carrying, but it's nice to help heft a full bag onto your luggage rack for unpacking using just one hand.
- You can use the adjustable side buckles to compress the bag a little more when it's packed, so that stuff moves around less and the bag takes up just a bit less space

CONS:
- As is typical, the collapsing bar you use to drag the bag takes up a lot of space in the interior.
- Once full, the suitcase is pretty heavy on your back. It doesn't look like the materials use any of the super-fancy lightweight structural stuff like carbon fiber, but that's why you're saving money on luggage. :)
- The grey and red version, which I bought, doesn't stand out like crazy on the conveyor belt, so you really gotta hunt for it for a flight coming off a 747 after you've gone through customs.
- It's not a "spinner" four-wheeled suitcase. I'm still coveting one of those.

All in all, I recommend this suitcase especially if you're traveling somewhere that you'll be coming home with more stuff than you left.