Timbuk2 Blink Pack Backpack

Like and dislike certain aspects of this backpack. I ordered the Timbuk2 Blink Pack in Jet Black for a recent trip to Asia, I used it as my "personal item" on the plane. Like: > LOTS of space, the front pocket opens up like a suitcase and makes packing a breeze. > Very deep central compartment and specialized laptop area in the back, for TSA/security check ease too! > The water bottle pocket at the front easily fits a 40 oz hydroflask > Overall build is well made and sturdy, zippers are excellent and there are many thoughtful pockets, you'll never have to reach and hunt for your cell phone with this bag > Top haul loop is very sturdy and thick, you can hang this thing from anything pretty easily Meh: > I'm a petite female (5'2") and it definitely is veering on the side of "too big" if I over-stuff it > It's also a very long bag, it reaches down toward my butt and covers my entire back. > When it gets over-stuffed, it gets super big and the compression straps don't actually "compress" - I think they should've added more straps on the bottom to compress the whole thing rather than just at the top > If I put the water bottle in (or even my Macbook) I feel like the weight isn't as well distributed as it could be, my back will start to hurt when I carry this bag > Chest strap is far too thin to actually use for me, I didn't enjoy this feature much > On the plane, pulling this thing out with my camera equipment, laptop, etc was a burden because it was just too big to be an "under airplane seat" backpack. (that's probably my mistake though) > The bag looks sleek and shiny like it won't attract dust or dirt, but somehow dust AND dirt stick SUPER easily too it? And it's hard to wipe clean - I don't understand how the backpack material can attract so much direct so easily Overall for the price this is still a quality backpack and comes with the lifetime Timbuk 2 warranty so I'd say go for it if you're considering it. I could still return it but I think I've fallen in love with the fact that it opens like a suitcase. I normally really love front loading backpacks (like from the top vs zipping all the way around) but the ease of adding clothes into this bag still makes it a great weekender bag for me. As long as I'm not carrying it over long distances or traveling on an airplane with it, I'm still happy using it. But just bear those small design features in mind if you're considering this bag for travel or commuting - it takes up space and is a LOT bigger than it looks, in my opinion.