I used this bag on a couple of side trips from a recent month-long business trip to Paris.  The bag itself is well constructed and I have had no problems with zippers or stitching.  I used some&nbsp;<a data-hook="product-link-linked" class="a-link-normal" href="/Eagle-Creek-Travel-Gear-Luggage-Pack-It-Specter-Packing-Cube/dp/B007EMZ6CO/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_rvw_txt?ie=UTF8">Eagle Creek Travel Gear Luggage Pack-It Specter Packing Cube</a>s inside to hold my clothes because otherwise the bag doesn't hold it's shape -- I'm more used to bags with a stiffer frame.  I was able to carry this on no problem -- even on strict EasyJet where I saw others with smaller hard case bags have to check their bags.  I like the nearly hidden side access pocket -- it was great for my laptop and made it easy to take out for security checks.  I also used it in backpack mode (with the shoulder straps and hip belt), and it was good for walking to our hotel in Venice where wheels would have been useless.  I do think the hip belt is a little too high for me (I'm 6-foot), but I used it anyway and it did help.