That's so disappointing, especially since you purchased it to take on a trip!
Why does it seem like merchandise purchased online more often has flaws?! Do they think they can sell the "bad bits" to less suspecting customers and that the serious ones of us who inspect bags are more likely to go to a store in person?
I've never found this to be true. I do not have an LV near me so I have purchased A LOT from the website and have never found flaws in any of my items. In fact, most of the items I receive are even MIF.