Currently at 35,000 feet, on a flight back to LA, my old battered carry-on suitcase in the overhead bin, I'm thinking I need a upgrade, one that would in an ideal world involve a monogram and gorgeous leather trim, like the , above. But since this suitcase is about as pricey as plane ticket to Timbucktu, I could also fly in style with these options, all owned/recommended by my frequent flying friends: (which is expandable), (so light!), (made with forever durable canvas), (my husband's go to) and (easy and practical).

Photo: Sofia Sanchez de Betak