Choosing a new laptop

So I'm trying to raise money for a new laptop, but I'm not tech smart and I want to get the best laptop for me. Can anyone help me decide? I tend to be on my laptop a lot, I travel 2 to 3 days a week with it, and I move around my house quite often too. I know it has to have a CD thing because I watch movies and make mixed CD's, also I'm a big fan PC games including The Sims and I'm hoping to get Sims 4 when it comes out. I've had two laptops in the past 6 or 7 years and I've noticed I like the flat touch mouse opposed to the one that dips in, if that makes sense. Also I can be kind of clumsy and to be honest I have dropped it before, so if you know of one that is know to be a little more durable that might help too. Also both my previous laptops have been Compaq's and I don't have any Apple products except for a old shuffle I don't use if that makes a difference. Price isn't a big issue as I'm still raising money, but I'm a cheapskate and don't like spending money if I don't have to. When it comes down to it though I'll pay for something that last.