WITH A DIZZYING number of luggage brands on the market, zeroing in on a new, well-constructed suitcase to fit your particular travel needs—not to mention your ski gear or that ambitious stack of beach reads—can seem like a herculean task. When shoppers visit Paradise Baggage’s retail outpost in Englewood, Colo. (where nearby Denver International Airport is currently the world’s third busiest hub), co-owner Jenni Paradise often advises them to come back later with clothing, shoes and other packables in tow. “[You need to] bring your things in. Pack them up. See how it feels when you pull a suitcase around the store,” said Ms. Paradise, whose family has been in the luggage business since 1977. Globe-trotting travel television host Samantha Brown concurs, and wisely suggested another strategy: Vigorously jiggling the case’s handle. “If it makes lots of noise,” she said, “it’s probably too loose and is not going to hold on.”

To further narrow the field, Ms. Paradise, who sells over 60 different brands of luggage and accessories at her namesake shop, also suggested looking for bags with a mix of ample storage space and organizational aids, and infallibly sturdy handles and wheels (since those are the items that most commonly require repair). With those must-haves in mind, and input from some inveterate jet-setters, we settled on five categorical winners likely to please travelers with an eye for both fashion and function.

5 Fab Hard-Case Bags for Every Preference and Personality

For Fashion Fanatics

For Maria Mantero, 49, a luxury fashion consultant in Milan, Globe-Trotter’s retro-inspired cases are the ne plus ultra of good-looking luggage, evoking trans-Atlantic voyages on the Cunard Line. “I love [them] because they’re stylish and always stand out,” she said. But plenty of substance buttresses the style. Ms. Mantero’s monogrammed two-wheeled roller features leather corners, wraparound belting and a sturdy vulcanized fiberboard construction designed to meet the demands of modern-day travel. These selling points, she reports, make it a faithful companion for long weekend train trips across Europe. Safari Large Check-In Suitcase, $2,995, us.Globe-Trotter.com

For OCD Packers

Annie Culbertson, a 22-year-old retail buyer in Washington, D.C., said her black Aviator suitcase from Paravel has helped curb her tendency to overpack for quick weekend trips. The New York City-based company, which offers both carry-ons and bags to check, caters to hyper-organized travelers by outfitting its cases with smart interior pockets, a removable laundry bag, and a set of stylish, monogram-optional packing cubes (sold separately) in various sizes. Ms. Culbertson also likes that her Aviator, the brand’s flagship model, is made from upcycled materials and is billed as the “world’s first carbon-neutral suitcase.” Aviator Carry-On Plus, $375, TourParavel.com

Photo: jsmagala

For the Perk-Conscious

Other luggage brands may boast lifetime warranties, but Tumi’s comprehensive five-year repair policy and top-notch service appeals to longtime customer George Fleck, 47, vice president and global brand leader for St. Regis Hotels & Resorts. “As someone whose job revolves around providing exceptional service, I’ve been very impressed with Tumi’s [offerings],” said Mr. Fleck, a frequent flier who’s sent his carry-on in for zipper repairs and replacement handles. Another enticement: Mr. Fleck said Tumi also cleans the suitcase before sending it back post-servicing. “It’s a really nice touch.” Short Trip Expandable 4 Wheeled Packing Case, $825, Tumi.com

For Tough Customers

Stylish and classic, Rimowa’s silver aluminum hardshell case has remained a brand signature since its launch more than 85 years ago. Along the way it has amassed a die-hard following—including Martha Stewart and Jay-Z—that consistently praises its sleek good looks and nearly indestructible durability. Jihan Zencirli, a 37-year-old artist in Los Angeles, was always cost-conscious about suitcase purchases, but after seeing several “lesser bags” deteriorate, she finally sprung for a Rimowa in 2012. Ms. Zencirli, who calls the case “a quality piece of machinery,” hasn’t suffered buyer’s remorse. “It was an act of faith that paid off,” she said. “A decade later I’m still using [it].” Classic Check-In L Suitcase, $1,825, Rimowa.com

For the Carry-On Crowd

Away’s carry-on roller is considered the industry-standard cabin bag by many folks for a reason. It’s lightweight and easy-to-maneuver, with several smart design features, including an expandable zipper function and an optional USB charger. We appreciate the minimal aesthetic too, which makes the case look pricier than it is. Matt Barrett, 35, a marketing professional based in Toronto, recently purchased an Away case in navy. Aside from the deceptively spacious dual compartments (“I can really pack a lot in!”), he said he appreciates its proportions. “Regardless of the airline, it always fits in the overhead—which has been a pain point for me in the past.” Carry-On Flex Suitcase, $325, AwayTravel.com

DON’T TRAVEL HEAVILY

Space-saving packing tips from an ex-flight attendant

Illustration: Federica Del Propsoto

Airlines are cracking down on travelers who try to smuggle on body-bag-sized duffels to avoid check-in fees, so to compress your load into the most compact, uncriminal form, heed these tips from Sue Mushaweh, a recently retired American Airlines flight attendant.

  • Tightly roll clothing and leave no inch unused—even shoes can be stuffed with underwear and socks.
  • If you carry a purse, slip it inside a larger backpack or tote.
  • Sign up for an airline rewards program for priority-enabling perks. “If you get on first, you’re gonna get space,” she said.
  • On the flip side, stragglers sometimes have an advantage in avoiding check-in fees: “If there’s no room [in the bins], they’ll take your bag, and you won’t have to pay for it.”

The Wall Street Journal is not compensated by retailers listed in its articles as outlets for products. Listed retailers frequently are not the sole retail outlets.

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS

What’s your perfect piece of luggage? Join the conversation below.