Once upon a time, there was a company named Samsonite, and they ruled the luggage world when I was little. As I grew up, the Samsonite name faded, and suitcases became all black nylon and wheels--simply a utilitarian necessity, it seemed.

Well, now it’s the 21st Century, and the new millennium has ushered in a new era in luggage, one where baggage is interesting again…finally! More functionality, more style, more options all around. If you need a new bag, here are some of the latest luggage innovations to consider: