Ryan, Thank you so much for all your help while I purchased this bag!
DA985, I assume they are for their prices and all the zip up areas, but I know every airline has different requirements so you'd really have to check your airline. And I so got those looks your family gave you but I tell ine that I work for too. Dh is so sweet he just says as long as it makes me happy he's ok w/it. Just try not to tell them the cost!
