Mountainsmith Checker Rolling Bag

This is just one of the many rolling bags that you can buy. Some are very expensive. This bag isn't. It's size is just right for weekend travel. I would imagine if I was younger and more adventurous I would be using this by itself but it is used in conjunction with a suitcase. I find this is the right size to hold everything for four people, two adults/two children to change clothing, etc. for a couple days on the road. Just roll it in at night.

The buckles for the internal strapping are on the bottom of the case (when on its back). The problem is that once you fill the case with clothes, shoes, etc, it's very hard to clip the buckles together since they're now buried beneath the items. Since the straps hold a large mesh pocket, it's not practical to keep them buckled while packing (it makes it hard to slide things under it). Cinching them tight is next to impossible for the same reason. The external straps are set up to go over the zipper-- which is good in case the zipper blows. But the buckle of cinch side of the strapping is placed next to the pocket for the excess strap. So it can't be cinched tight unless the case is completely full. Other than those annoyances, I like the size, framing, and the fact that there are not a lot of extraneous loose ends on the outside to get caught in conveyors.

Limited use as it was purchased to replace a lesser quality bag that lost a wheel assembly. Solid construction, Nice wheels. Limited adjustability of the compression straps though they appear well hidden. Since it is all black, no visual cues for easy identification. Well constructed, solid and simple.

Purchased this relying on my prior experience with Mountainsmith's excellent backpack line. This bag dissapoints with cheap construction and poor overall quality. I am sending it back without even using it.