I used this bag on a recent trip that took me from the Middle East to Paris to Georgia (the country) and back again. The bag is solidly built and can handle a huge load of gear. The wheels can handle rough terrain and the handle is tough and easy to grip. The shoulder/waist pad assembly is a little bulky, but very comfortable for extended rucking.

There are only two downsides to this bag. The first is weight- be prepared to pay for having a heavy bag if your airline has a 50lb/23kg weight limit. Everything that makes this bag tough also makes it weigh more. Personally, I don't mind the extra weight- I look for durability and this bag has it. The second problem has been mentioned before. The main zipper is large and rugged- able to handle a lot of abuse. The smaller zipper that connects the outer compression straps, however, is another story entirely. I have already had one side blow out and was able to get it fixed by a local seamstress. Not a dealbreaker, but important to understand and prepare for.
Overall, an excellent bag and a purchase I do not regret. I beat the crap out of this bag and it has been up to the task. The inside toiletry bag was excellent- I don't worry about trying to attach it inside (it is difficult but also unnecessary). Use the small bag as a carryon (there's a clever cover that zips into place on the main bag when the smaller one is detached) and have a little extra money to cover the extra weight and you'll be fine.

One trip and very easy to get around with. Lots of pockets for organization. Really like the detachable backpack that then reconnects for easy transport when moving around with the whole thing. Haven't had the zipper failure. Kept stuff dry despite bag being on tarmac in the rain...I saw it from the plane. Only complaint is the smaller detachable toiletry bag inside is very difficult to attach/detach - poor design.

This is a good well thought out bag, the only problem I had is the zipper to zip the small back pack to the bag broke. for the amount of money these bags cost The North Face should use top quality zippers, but they do not.