My father in law bought me this carry-on as a birthday gift, and I really like it. I don't actually use it as a carry-on, I use it for my checked luggage. I pack fairly lightly, and the idea of cramming this thing into an overhead compartment seems really rude and boorish. When it comes out of the baggage carousel I can see it a mile away. There's no confusing it with other luggage. This isn't just a novelty, it actually sped up one of the most unpleasant parts of travel on my last trip (I hate the baggage reclaim with a passion). The main drawback is the glossy finish of the hard exterior has become instantly stained and smudged with black marks from being handled on the first trip I took it on. If you want a nice clean bag (is that why everyone seems to choose black luggage?) then you don't want this one. But that's just fine with me, because if I have the only springbok bag, I'll always be able to find it quickly.