Most I have spent so far on one bag is $500 (not including tax), but I would and will spend up to $3K to $4K. When I am done with school I will be buying my first Louis Vuitton, and later a Chanel Jumbo Flap. Just my opinion, but a $17 bag is not going to last you as long as a well crafted leather bag. It just isn't. I have owned both, and quit buying cheap-o bags because they simply don't last. And you all know I am a cheapskate who shops clearance and Goodwill lol. No, it doesn't have to be $3000 to be of great quality, but no way is a $17 bag going to live as long as a well crafted bag.