» What it is: A luxuriously styled carry-on that collapses to half its size for storage, whether at home or on the road in, say, a Swiss hotel room where excess space is considered an oversight. From the bottom of the wheels to the top, the bag measures 22 by 14 by 11 inches fully expanded and comes in five colors.

» The good: This is the first bag I have tried that rolls as easily whether dragged on two wheels or rolled on all four spinner wheels. The interior side panels that secure the bag in its deployed position are a breeze to maneuver. The bag will shrink to a size that fits easily under a bed, into a closet or even into a large dresser drawer. The telescoping handle is sturdy, and the suitcase-type handle is thick and comfortably padded if you want to carry the bag. There are two exterior zippered pockets, one convenient for a passport and boarding pass. There also are mesh pockets inside. A storage case for the bag will keep dust bunnies from propagating all over it if you tuck the bag under your bed.

» The bad: The bad part also is good. The nylon exterior is so attractive, you might worry that the rigors of the road will mar the bag, but the manufacturer positioned bumpers at strategic points, so that fear may be unfounded. There’s also a five-year warranty. One drawback: The bag weighs 8.4 pounds, more than some might like for a carry-on.

» Cost: $229 (Biaggi has a line of foldables, some cheaper)

» Available from: biaggi.com, luggagepros.com

—Ross Werland, Chicago Tribune