Thule Subterra 25L Backpack - Lightweight & Durable Daypack for Hiking, Travel & Daily Commute - Water-Resistant Laptop Backpack for Men & Women

I grew up in the luggage industry. My dad had a store that sold luggage, briefcases, and carry-ons. So, I've seen every quality of bag imaginable, and I've repaired more zippers and rips than I can count. So, I feel like I can easily spot durability...as in this Thule Subterra pack. Ok, I also happen to like the way this looks...nice bonus.Now, I'm a teacher, and my needs vary from week to week. sometimes I just need to transport a laptop, maybe lunch. Other times I need a gazillion papers, a couple of books, and lunch. For me, this bag is the best book bag I've had....specifically because it has fewer and larger pockets rather than other brands boasting a zillion zippered compartments. For me, too many compartments just leave me searching through my bag longer.This Thule bag has a vacuous main compartment accessed by a side zipper. This allows for contents to be top-loaded or from the side...so convenient. A generously sized bottle holder on one side and a great crush-proof pocket on the other are also great features. A chest compression strap (I'm not hiking yet), solid straps and a top handle round out features that make this bag easy to manage. Tomorrow I will easily fit this soft, but nicely padded bag, under that airplane seat with no worries about the contents.I also like the way this bag closes, or, the many ways it closes. A lot of what I do needs me to get into and out of the bag frequently, so I find flaps with buckles a little awkward. When I don't need super-secure closure, this weighted flap and some of the pocket fold over (like a potato chip bag) and remain that way...SO convenient for me. Certainly, it's easy enough to clip the two nicely place buckles.Finally, the thick nylon seems super tough, zippers and pulls large, and clips are super sturdy, plenty big.I was able to touch and handle this bag in an office supply store and loved its features. This price is significantly less (about 30% less) than the in-store price.I look forward to long use with this bag, and backed by Thule, I know I can get help if needed. (comes with warranty)