I love the open top, especially because it can fit a laptop and still have room for files, magazines whatever plus it expands really wide. I want one in Truffle or Cafe to use for work. I think it would be great for traveling too. With the open top you can get a lot more in it without having to worry about it not closing. It's also perfect for a small dog. One of my friends just got this bag in Olive and she carries her Yorkie in it. When she gets tired, she falls asleep down in the bottom, when she's awake she peeks out and it's adorable.