I've been eying this as an alternative. The hard, flat top looks like it would support a second bag well. It's expandable to 10". As long as you don't fill that space, it could go through the airport expanded to make a more stable base and still fit in the CRJ overhead. The computer sleeve and file organizer is removable, so it can be a briefcase or an open tote. As a tote, it opens fully. The only problem is the $595 price tag.