I purchased this bag as a "starter" bag when I started a new teaching job. It has been over a year now and this inexpensive bag has held up remarkably well! I need to buy a larger bag to hold more books & papers, but if you have a smaller load, this bag should work well for you. It is a perfect size for an overnight bag but was too small for me to pack for a long weekend away. I have not been particularly gentle on this bag, but it has performed great and is still holding together. Most bags this size are closer to $100 in any store in my area here in CT.