My husband and I went back and forth on using this backpack during our travels in Europe or sticking with roller bags. We are so happy we bought these backpacks! I loved using this throughout our trip. I was able to fit a lot more than I thought I would in it and we were very happy to have the backpacks whenever we had to climb stairs or were in a rush to catch a train.Pros:Lightweight (when empty)DurableFits more than you think (Especially if you use packing cubes)Opens like a suitcaseTwo zipper pockets in the main compartmentDetached smaller backpack is great for use throughout the day and fits more than you think!The straps inside the bag really do compact the insideCons:It is a bit heavy on the shoulders after everything is packed which makes it a little uncomfortable but as someone who doesn't backpack all the time, I expected that.I wore the main backpack on my shoulders and then wore the smaller one on my front or carried it by the handle because it was too bulky/heavy to wear altogether on my back.Other notes:We were able to fit water bottles on the side of the smaller backpack but I will say they can fall out if you are turning the backpack upside down.Right before getting on a plane or when we were traveling by train we often zipped up the shoulder straps on the large bags and carried them by their side hand holder to be able to easily store it in the above compartments and that worked out perfectly for being efficient.I hope this helps with the decision making!