This range of luggage, which has some 75 patents for its engineering functions and design, uses a new woven polypropylene called “CURV.” Two-thirds thinner than the regular line of hard-shell cases, it—s light, flexible and strong. It’s also non-toxic and totally recyclable, making it a candidate for the suitcase of choice among the carbon-offsetting jetset.

Price: $150–$800

For more information: www.samsoniteblacklabel.com

This Japanese designer takes advantage of the latest designer polymers to make his stylish suitcases, attaches and totes. Wakamatsu aims for lightness and strength, while remaining open to the aesthetic opportunities of modern fabrics and plastics. This see-through attache makes finding objects easy, and also helps with security checks.

Price: $249–$489

For more information: www.hideostore.com

This concept piece from architect Peter Yeadon follows its owner via a wireless signal sent out from a watch-like device; it can also obey voice commands. Manufacturers claim it will behave like a dog and heel, no training required, thanks to advanced motion robotics. No word on how it handles escalators.

For more information: www.yeadon.net/yeadon/support/projects/0409/0409.swf

“That thing is super cool,” said Gizmodo.com’s Brian Lam. It’s also super useful: The case features a small digital screen that reads the suitcase’s own weight. And while weight restrictions are usually pretty generous in the U.S., international jetsetters can find themselves packing and repacking in the check in area—a most undignified affair.

Price: $179–$389

For more information: ricardobeverlyhills.com

Particularly useful for anyone with an irrational fear of ending up in an unfurnished hotel room. One suitcase doubles as a chair for resting in the check-in line, another resembles a chest of drawers, and an attaché-shaped case opens up to serve as a fluorescent light.

For more information: www.bornrich.org/entry/transforming-suitcases

One minute you’re pulling your luggage along on its smooth, rubber-tired wheels, the next minute you’re zipping around the departures lounge on a kid-style bike. Great for quick escapes.

Price: $380

For more information: www.lutz.co.jp/index.htm

This very questionable piece of luggage from the Euro Spy Shop comes with a separate remote-control device (similar in appearance to a car key) which can trigger a 107-decibel alarm and an 80,000-volt electric shock. Needless to say, accidents can happen. Available in brown or black.Price: 899 euros ($1,220), batteries included

For more information: www.eurospyshop.com/80000voltelectricsuitcase_p_321.html

The industry standard. Halliburton’s founder, Erle P. Halliburton, convinced some aircraft engineers to design the classic aluminium attaché back in 1938 to withstand the dusty, bumpy rides he took over the Texas oil fields. Today, Zero Halliburton is owned by a Japanese luggage manufacturer thatproduces a super-light carbon-fiber version with a hefty price tag.

Price: $269–$355

For more information: www.zerohalliburton.com

Ten years in development, this suitcase—the world’s most expensive—combines superb engineering with the clean lines of Dutch design. The telescoping handle and oversize wheels completely disappear when retracted to create a sleek-looking case that conforms with hand-luggage restrictions. Now available only online, HENK stores are soon to open in Kiev, Moscow, Dubai and Ascona in Switzerland.

Price: $20,000

For more information: www.henk.com

These locks, developed by the Transportation Security Administration, allow officers to easily open and inspect your bag. This saves them time and, in the case of self-locking bags, rescues your luggage from almost certain destruction. Samsonite uses the locks in all but its most inexpensive lines, as does Rimowa. Price (without luggage): $8

For more information: www.magellans.com