I ordered this bag as I needed a gym bag and was also planning a trip flying Frontier where I did not want to pay for a carry on. This was the perfect size! I checked the bag sizer and packed tightly, this bag just fit. It almost the exact dimensions of the personal item allowance so you get to use most of the allotted space and fits without issue under the seat. I would suggest getting the version with a handle as it makes it so much easier to carry, especially when packed to capacity. I haven't tested the water section as I don't store wet clothes often but it added extra peace of mind if you're packing liquids, which is what I used it for. The shoe compartment is something I never knew I needed in a gym bag! I still store my shoes in shoe bags in the shoe compartment as I like to store other things there to maximize space, but it prevents having to work around the awkwardness of having to shove shoes in with clothes and other items.The bag is bigger than it seems, which I found extremely useful as it was the only back I used for a week trip to Prlando. I was able to take 10 tank tops, 5 shorts, 10 pairs of underwear, a sports bra, 7 pairs of socks, a pair of Vans shoes, makeup, and a liquids bag. It didn't leave any room for extras or souvenirs, but this bag is bigger than it looks! Of course, I was packing for warm weather and rolled my clothes, so your mileage may vary, but it was perfect for my purposes. I just recently used it for a weekend away and was able to fit four winter outfits (coat excluded), 2 workout outfits, a pair of high heeled boots, and toiletries.So far, I would rate the bag extremely high. It's perfect for all of my needs and is something I can and do use on a daily basis. That being said, I have only had it for about a month so I cannot attest to the lasting properties of this bag, but it seems to be of good quality.