This pack is magical. I am not a light packer, but somehow the design of the small backpack helps me fit the perfect amount of stuff for weekend trips, including multiple outfits, a laptop, a book, a bottle, and snacks. I used it while living in Italy every single time I left my home base in Florence for a weekend backpacking trip and even while hiking (you can fit a water pouch into the back pocket). You can also buckle heavy coats over the top of the pack for easy transport.