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Tips for buying green luggage – Depending on your travel habits, you may only bring out your luggage only a few times a year. But when you do use it, it takes a beating.
We were gifted a set of luggage a few years ago, and it’s already falling apart.
We will do our best to repair it, but if we do need to buy a new bag we will be considering more environmentally friendly options.
Here are tips for buying green luggage so that you can conserve our planet while toting your belongings.
Luggage for kids
Luckily more companies are producing what they label as “eco luggage.”
For example, Patagonia has several bags made from recycled materials. Heys luggage has a new set out, Eco Case, that’s made from 100% Recycled Plastic.
It even comes in the color green.
Sierra Club has put their brand on luggage that is “eco friendly on several fronts.”
And finally, Eco Traveler sells a 2-piece carry on luggage set – made from hemp that’s PVC free.
While it’s great that companies are moving in this direction, there still aren’t a lot of green options available.
Because you will likely buy luggage that isn’t labeled as eco luggage, here are the features to look for in conventional luggage that will help ensure your bag is a little greener.
If you’re looking for lightweight luggage, check out our lightest luggage article.
Samsonite Winfield vs Samsonite Omni Carry On Luggage – Which Should You Choose?
Tips for buying green luggage
Weight of Bag
It’s surprising how much luggage weighs.
When we recently went to New Zealand my rolling carry-on didn’t meet the weight limits for carry on.
This wasn’t only because of what it contained, but because it was just a heavy bag, even empty.
When everyone’s empty bag weighs a few pounds, the result is too much energy being used just to transport the luggage.
When searching for green luggage, try to the bag that weighs less.
Size of Bag
The first rule of luggage size is to buy a bag that’s the right size for your purpose.
While we prefer that everyone pack light, we’d rather you buy a bigger bag that you’ll actually use.
Otherwise you’ll have to buy another bag.
The second rule of luggage size is to buy a smaller bag.
Why? Because the more space you have the more likely you’ll be to fill it with stuff you don’t need.
I prefer carry on sized luggage because it saves the environment because I’m transporting less, and it save me the bag checking fee.
I honestly don’t know time I packed my stuff in a non carry-on size bag.
Even when we went to Argentina for three months (or New Zealand for 10 days) I still just brought a carry on.
Expandable/Multipurpose Bag
Buying an expandable bag may seem to contradict my last recommended feature.
But, I have found that an expandable carry-on bag means that you actually have to own fewer pieces of luggage.
When you end up buying too many souvenirs or get an extra large holiday gift, expandable luggage comes in handy.
You can carry-on one way and check the bag on your return trip.
Bag Material
If you can, buy a bag that’s PVC free and/or made from recyclable materials. Hemp or organic cotton are also great choices.
Durability
As I alluded to in my intro, cheap luggage often falls apart.
Buy a bag with good reviews, a good warranty, or a well known brand.
Make sure it feels sturdy.
You might pay a little bit more now, but you will save the earth and some money down the road by not having to buy new luggage every few years.
Luggage Repair
Last but not least, if you are in the market for some new green luggage, first ask yourself whether or not you can repair your current luggage. If it’s just a broken zipper or wheel you can likely get your luggage repaired.
Luggage and bags are wonderful. One of my favorite places to browse in a department store is the luggage section.
There are always new styles with fun compartments and nifty pockets.
But, I know the best tips for buying green luggage isn’t a tip at all.
It’s to continue to reuse by old luggage.
Elizabeth says
I last got new luggage 7 years ago, and the material is finally starting to get worn out. I think I will keep using it for awhile though, until the plastic (probably the wheels first) starts falling apart, or until the outer layer of fabric wears through. Also, when I do replace it, I will probably only get a small suitcase and some sort of boarding bag/overnight bag, instead of a luggage “set”, since I’ve started traveling lighter since I purchased this set.
jessiev says
brilliant ideas, esp about the weight. YIKES! i never thought of that.
Jane says
My husband and I went on a 9 day cruise recently, we only took one bag apiece. And it was plenty, the boat has a coin laundry on every deck that was very convenient. I brought clothes that could mix and match, it worked perfectly. So I think packing for the trip is just as important as the luggage you take. The old adage LESS CLOTHES, MORE MONEY is really true!
matt bilding says
get up there i hav one of these so does the whole of kemnal
Nicole says
I have one carry-on suitcase that I bought almost 11 years ago. It is great, but the bag weighs over ten pounds empty. I have been researching new alternatives, and will probably get a bag that is still carry-on size, but significantly lighter, and without wheels. Maybe with backpack straps? Either way, I will look for greener fabrics!
Bonnie says
We have a perfectly good set of soft-sided luggage, but are getting to the age we would appreciate being able to add wheels–especially to the largest bag. Unfortunately, I have not found a frame/wheel/handle set with which to upgrade these bags. Has anyone heard of anywhere that would carry such a conversion kit?
Renata Reginato says
Hi,
I bouth my louggage in Orlando Flórida André when I arrive in Brazil it was destroyed.
Who can I talk with abaut the warranty?
Regards