I have been flying at an airline for over 25 years..... The difference between a cheap bag and an expensive bag (purdy, luggae works) is howlong it will last. Before this type of bag was available I was purchasing a new bag annually. Since I have purchased one of these I have used the same bag for over 12 years. I did have it rebuilt once (around $100) but it came back pretty much like new. So in the long run the expensive bag was cheaper. Same can be said for a good leather flight bag..... I have seen bags that have been used over 30 years!