Ok id relly like to order this bag but will i be able to fit my alienware 17.3" laptop into it? this is a must for me to by,whats the largest you make

The bag opens up hugeLike an accordion in a way, the leather folds on the side making it look smallerI would not personally thibk it would have issues with any laptop

How will this bag hold up in rain?

It's a very durable bag due to it being goat, however it gets a faint wild smell to it in the rain, personally not enough to not make the purchase. Overall I believe it to be a great bag for the price. I give it a B due to not rolling the exposed edges on some of the areas and not double stitching it under, and also splicing some of the leather straps together instead of using one whole piece. I would also recommend shoulder padding to be incorporated (had no issues so far) and a full padded bottom instead of just the center, and brass eyelets for the buckle eyes and drawstring eye holes, but I really do LOVE the bag, and it's getting a proper breaking in on a Europe tour, it has so much room. I hope this helped

Would something like this be suitable as a bugout bag? I look to hold first aid, a change a clothes and some other items.

I don't know what a bug out bag is but this is a bigger stylish bag that can hold alot. Medical stuff and a change of clothes will fit fine...jus don't pull to hard on leather draw string, mine broke but luckily it came long enough to not matter, it still ties up and secures.

How do you get rid of the weird smell

I put mine in a bag in the freezer for about a week, then hung it outside for a few days. The smell is from the tanning solution that they use. It does come back if it gets damp. But it has been a great backpack for travelling light.