Technology Carries Luggage a Long Way

Papa's got a brand new bag. A whole bunch of them, actually.

Space-age polymers, ergonomic design and clever innovations are seeping into the world of luggage, with companies offering a wide variety of items that are not only practical, but durable and stylish, too. Bags are no longer in basic black -- Atlantic Luggage's new Citrus line comes in blueberry, plum, lime and grapefruit -- and they're more than just empty boxes with a latch -- as Tumi's new T-3 product line proves.

Simply put, baggage has come a long way from the days of steamer trunks and 1970's Samsonite -- here's a look at three suitcases that are literally worth picking up.

The Next Wave

What the bulbous iMac did for the boxy world of personal computers, Tumi's new T-3 line of luggage could do for the suitcase.

The T-3 is a break from the mold, evoking current design trends in the automobile industry, like the circular spoiler and grille seen in Audi's TT coupe. While the 14-piece product line is only available in Tumi stores and won't hit the mass market until the fall, its swooping curves and ergonomic styling have already garnered the upscale bagmaker a lot of attention. This year, the T-3 won i.D. Magazine's "design distinction" award and was named one of Fortune's 25 best new products.

"With the T-3, there's no hard lines and there's no sharp edges," said a company spokesperson. "We like to think of ourselves as a company that thinks outside of the box. Maybe luggage doesn't have to be a rectangle. That's where we take the most pride -- coming up with new forms."

Form is one thing, but the T-3 is remarkably functional as well. Unlike the traditional tube system used in other bags, the T-3's handle features a more comfortable rounded grip that is slightly off-center and swivels, so it can be pulled by left- or right-handed users. It's also longer, making the T-3 line ideal for taller users who often clip themselves on their bags or give their shoes "flat tires" when running to catch a plane. With a convenient pocket to hold passports, retractable handles and a removable garment bag, Tumi left no design stone unturned.