Samsonite X’Lite
This light, strong, hard-shell suitcase absorbs a lot of punishment and offers easy maneuvering.
Price: $600 Contact: Samsonite.com
Source: Popular Mechanics

Pack-It Folder
This folder-like bag saves “precious packing space” by compacting “up to 12 shirts, blouses, or pairs of pants to half their size with virtually no wrinkling.”
Price: $25 Contact: Eaglecreek.com
Source: Real Simple Travel

Sakku Traveler Bag
This messenger bag not only houses your BlackBerry, laptop, and other tech gear but sucks in solar power to keep gadgets “alive when you go off the grid.”
Price: $459 Contact: Sakkuus.com
Source: Men’s Journal

Heys Xcase
This “polycarbonate plastic” suitcase doesn’t scuff easily and handles tricky “terrain with aplomb.”
Price: $180 Contact: Heysusa.com
Source: Popular Mechanics

Hermès’ Compact Shopper
This “zip-and-go” bag, styled like the French fashion house’s “iconic scarf prints,” works as a carry-on or converts into a “chic, wallet-size” case.
Price: $960 Contact: Hermes.com
Source: The New York Times