I recently returned from a two week trip to France. I am petite and I like small carry on bags that I can maneuver through subway stations, trains, cobblestone streets and sidewalks without difficulty. This bag fit the bill. The outside is tough and durable. I was on a 7 day bike trip and the suitcase was transferred from hotel to hotel without any damage. I negotiated subway stairs during rushhour without difficulty by carrying it with the conveniently located straps on the top and the side. It is small enough to fit between my legs on the train. But it is large enough to carry 10 days of clothes- including, three bike pants, three bike shirts, three regular pants, a flannel jacket, light sweater, and 5 shirts, a pair of sandles, fold up sun hat, toiletry bag, 5 socks, 7 pair of underwear, pjs and when flying- my bike seat. I'm a good packer and squeeezed everything in. I also carry a small back back for under the seat essentials on the plain. There is only the one outside pocket that I used for my travel book and print outs, and a small pocket where I stashed 3 pairs of bike gloves. If you like to travel light- this is a great bag. If you like a lot of clothing, then you will want a larger, check on bag. I am 5'2, 117 pounds. This bag worked great. I'm going to Iceland in two months and will have to pack some heavier items. I will up date later.