I was looking for a backpack to replace my old one which I'd had for many years. I wanted one to use on flights with a place for my laptop and lots of pockets for stuff I'd need on a plane. This one is a great choice. I almost went with the women's version but I felt the main compartment of the men's was larger and would work for me. I like how it's balanced and that it has a separate opening for the laptop so when I go thru security I just have to unzip one thing and slip it out. Convenient. This is worth the money!