More than a duffel, this piece can be loaded from the top or open in the middle for a book opening. Book opening allows traditional packing with more organization, with top loading to create a HUGE deep pocket if needed for those bulky items. Don't forget the benefit of two large wheels, makes it easier to go over rough terrain such as cobblestones, pea gravel, dirt, snow, just what you would expect when traveling abroad to new unseen destinations.