I had my reservations about this bag, so I went hunting to see it in person.

To address the concerns I had:

-No, it's not extraordinarily big. Certainly smaller than my Wegner laptop backpack, but a bit bigger than the baseline Jansport. It's a mid-sized bag-- smaller than many, but not much larger than your "standard" backpack.

-The storage space is surprisingly roomy. I know, I didn't think it would be either. But it is.

-Yes, there is an All-Weather cover. I don't care what kind of use you think it will face, it needs one of these. Unless your bag is virtually impenetrable without one, it's an absolute necessity. And, no, your bag isn't as waterproof as you may think it is. Not after an hour of European rain.

-The pocket you see with an air can can easily hold a water bottle . Or a monopod. Or a tripod. Or whatever similarly-sized cylindrical, weatherproof accessory you may find yourself wanting.

-Yes, it's comfortable. I can move without fear of knocking someone out. And I can walk for hours with it on. I'm a 5'9" man, and I never feel overwhelmed.

-If you're determined, and your flight attendant isn't new at the game, it will fit under a seat in an airplane. Trust me, you can't overpack this bag.

-You can't overpack this bag.

-Buy a small luggage lock. Or plan to make your bag look really ugly so as to deter thieves.