I have multiple items from Portland leather, and I see no reason why I won't keep them for a long time, if not life. I have carried the two main bags I have daily (tote & mini xbody), intermittently, but they hold up well and look gorgeous. Scratches have rubbed out, leather has gotten softer, no real wear. Have also converted coworkers, lol. They have zipper top backpacks, so that may be better for you Check their "almost perfect" sale page too. If you have a Facebook, they have "portland leather insiders, and portland leather groupies". You may be able to score a cheaper backpack on b/s/t. Good luck.